British Library Cataloguing Data
The concise Oxford dictionary of current English.--8th ed.
1. English language--Dictionaries
I. Allen, R. E. (Robert Edward), 1944-423
ISBN 0-19-861243-5 thumb index
ISBN 0-19-861200-1 plain
-s(4) suffix forming nicknames or pet names (Fats; ducks). [after
-S(1)]
-s' suffix denoting the possessive case of plural nouns and
sometimes of singular nouns ending in s (the boys' shoes;
Charles' book). [as -'S(1)]
's- prefix archaic (esp. in oaths) God's ('sblood; 'struth).
[abbr.]
-'s(1) suffix denoting the possessive case of singular nouns and of
plural nouns not ending in -s (John's book; the book's cover;
the children's shoes). [OE genit. sing. ending]
-'s(2) suffix denoting the plural of a letter or symbol (S's; 8's).
[as -S(1)]
SA abbr. 1 Salvation Army. 2 sex appeal. 3 a South Africa. b
South America. c South Australia. 4 hist. Sturmabteilung (the
paramilitary force of the Nazi party).
sabadilla n. 1 a Mexican plant, Schoenocaulon officinale, with seeds
yielding veratrine. 2 a preparation of these seeds, used in
medicine and agriculture. [Sp. cebadilla dimin. of cebada
barley]
Sabaoth n.pl. Bibl. heavenly hosts (see HOST(1) 2) (Lord of Sabaoth).
[ME f. LL f. Gk Sabaoth f. Heb. sebaot pl. of sabѓ host (of
heaven)]
Sabbatarian
n. & adj. --n. 1 a strict sabbath-keeping Jew. 2 a Christian
who favours observing Sunday strictly as the sabbath. 3 a
Christian who observes Saturday as the sabbath. --adj. relating
to or holding the tenets of Sabbatarians. ЬЬSabbatarianism n.
[LL sabbatarius f. L sabbatum: see SABBATH]
sabbath n. 1 (in full sabbath day) a day of rest and religious
observance kept by Christians on Sunday, Jews on Saturday, and
Muslims on Friday. 2 a period of rest. 3 (in full witches'
sabbath) a supposed general midnight meeting of witches with the
Devil. [OE sabat, L sabbatum, & OF sabbat, f. Gk sabbaton f.
Heb. sabbat f. sabat to rest]
sabbatical
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or appropriate to the sabbath. 2 (of
leave) granted at intervals to a university teacher for study or
travel, orig. every seventh year. --n. a period of sabbatical
leave. Ьsabbatical year 1 Bibl. every seventh year, prescribed
by the Mosaic law to be observed as a 'sabbath', during which
the land was allowed to rest. 2 a year's sabbatical leave.
ЬЬsabbatically adv. [LL sabbaticus f. Gk sabbatikos of the
sabbath]
saber US var. of SABRE.
Sabian adj. & n. --adj. of a sect classed in the Koran with Muslims,
Jews, and Christians, as believers in the true God. --n. a
member of this sect. [Arab. sabi']
sabicu n. 1 a W. Indian tree, Lysiloma latisiliqua, grown for timber.
2 the mahogany-like wood of this tree. [Cuban Sp. sabicЈ]
Sabine adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to a people of the central
Apennines in ancient Italy. --n. a member of this people. [L
Sabinus]
Sabin vaccine
n. an oral vaccine giving immunity against poliomyelitis. [A.
B. Sabin, US virologist b. 1906]
sable(1) n. 1 a a small brown-furred flesh-eating mammal, Martes
zibellina, of N. Europe and parts of N. Asia, related to the
marten. b its skin or fur. 2 a fine paintbrush made of sable
fur. [ME f. OF f. med.L sabelum f. Slav.]
sable(2) n. & adj. --n. 1 esp. poet. black. 2 (in pl.) mourning
garments. 3 (in full sable antelope) a large stout-horned
African antelope, Hippotragus niger, the males of which are
mostly black in old age. --adj. 1 (usu. placed after noun)
Heraldry black. 2 esp. poet. dark, gloomy. ЬЬsabled adj.
sably adv. [ME f. OF (in Heraldry): gen. taken to be identical
with SABLE(1), although sable fur is dark brown]
sabot n. 1 a kind of simple shoe hollowed out from a block of wood.
2 a wooden-soled shoe. 3 Austral. a small snub-nosed yacht.
ЬЬsaboted adj. [F, blend of savate shoe + botte boot]
sabotage n. & v. --n. deliberate damage to productive capacity, esp. as
a political act. --v.tr. 1 commit sabotage on. 2 destroy,
spoil; make useless (sabotaged my plans). [F f. saboter make a
noise with sabots, bungle, wilfully destroy: see SABOT]
saboteur n. a person who commits sabotage. [F]
sabra n. a Jew born in Israel. [mod. Heb. sabrah opuntia fruit]
sabre n. & v. (US saber) --n. 1 a cavalry sword with a curved blade.
2 a cavalry soldier and horse. 3 a light fencing-sword with a
tapering blade. --v.tr. cut down or wound with a sabre.
Ьsabre-bill any S. American bird of the genus Campylorhamphus
with a long curved bill. sabre-cut 1 a blow with a sabre. 2 a
wound made or a scar left by this. sabre-rattling a display or
threat of military force. sabre-toothed designating any of
various extinct mammals having long sabre-shaped upper canines.
sabre-wing a S. American humming-bird, Campylopterus falcatus,
with curved wings. [F, earlier sable f. G Sabel, S„bel, Schabel
f. Pol. szabla or Magyar szablya]
sabretache
n. a flat satchel on long straps worn by some cavalry officers
from the left of the waist-belt. [F f. G S„beltasche (as SABRE,
Tasche pocket)]
sabreur n. a user of the sabre, esp. a cavalryman. [F f. sabrer SABRE
v.]
SAC abbr. (in the UK) Senior Aircraftman.
sac n. 1 a baglike cavity, enclosed by a membrane, in an animal or
plant. 2 the distended membrane surrounding a hernia, cyst,
tumour, etc. [F sac or L saccus SACK(1)]
saccade n. a brief rapid movement of the eye between fixation points.
ЬЬsaccadic adj. [F, = violent pull, f. OF saquer, sachier pull]
saccate adj. Bot. 1 dilated into a bag. 2 contained in a sac.
saccharimeter
n. any instrument, esp. a polarimeter, for measuring the sugar
content of a solution. [F saccharimЉtre (as SACCHARIDE)]
saccharin n. a very sweet substance used as a non-fattening substitute
for sugar. [G (as SACCHARIDE) + -IN]
saccharine
adj. 1 sugary. 2 of, containing, or like sugar. 3
unpleasantly over-polite, sentimental, etc.
saccharo- comb. form sugar; sugar and. [Gk sakkharon sugar]
saccharogenic
adj. producing sugar.
saccharometer
n. any instrument, esp. a hydrometer, for measuring the sugar
content of a solution.
saccharose
n. sucrose. [mod.L saccharum sugar + -OSE(2)]
sacciform adj. sac-shaped. [L saccus sac + -FORM]
saccule n. a small sac or cyst. ЬЬsaccular adj. [L sacculus (as SAC)]
sacerdotal
adj. 1 of priests or the priestly office; priestly. 2 (of a
doctrine etc.) ascribing sacrificial functions and supernatural
powers to ordained priests; claiming excessive authority for the
priesthood. ЬЬsacerdotalism n. sacerdotalist n. sacerdotally
adv. [ME f. OF sacerdotal or L sacerdotalis f. sacerdos -dotis
priest]
sachem n. 1 the supreme chief of some American Indian tribes. 2 US a
political leader. [Narraganset, = SAGAMORE]
sachet n. 1 a small bag or packet containing a small portion of a
substance, esp. shampoo. 2 a small perfumed bag. 3 a dry
perfume for laying among clothes etc. b a packet of this. [F,
dimin. of sac f. L saccus]
sack(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a a large strong bag, usu. made of hessian,
paper, or plastic, for storing or conveying goods. b (usu.
foll. by of) this with its contents (a sack of potatoes). c a
quantity contained in a sack. 2 (prec. by the) colloq.
dismissal from employment. 3 (prec. by the) US sl. bed. 4 a a
woman's short loose dress with a sacklike appearance. b archaic
or hist. a woman's loose gown, or a silk train attached to the
shoulders of this. 5 a man's or woman's loose-hanging coat not
shaped to the back. --v.tr. 1 put into a sack or sacks. 2
colloq. dismiss from employment. Ьsack race a race between
competitors in sacks up to the waist or neck. ЬЬsackful n.
(pl. -fuls). sacklike adj. [OE sacc f. L saccus f. Gk sakkos,
of Semitic orig.]
sack(2) v. & n. --v.tr. 1 plunder and destroy (a captured town etc.).
2 steal valuables from (a place). --n. the sacking of a
captured place. [orig. as noun, f. F sac in phr. mettre … sac
put to sack, f. It. sacco SACK(1)]
sack(3) n. hist. a white wine formerly imported into Britain from
Spain and the Canaries (sherry sack). [16th-c. wyne seck, f. F
vin sec dry wine]
sackbut n. an early form of trombone. [F saquebute, earlier saqueboute
hook for pulling a man off a horse f. saquer pull, boute (as
BUTT(1))]
sackcloth n. 1 a coarse fabric of flax or hemp. 2 clothing made of this,
formerly worn as a penance or in mourning (esp. sackcloth and
ashes).
sacking n. material for making sacks; sackcloth.
sacra pl. of SACRUM.
sacral adj. 1 Anat. of or relating to the sacrum. 2 Anthropol. of or
for sacred rites. [E or L sacrum: see SACRUM]
sacrament n. 1 a religious ceremony or act of the Christian Churches
regarded as an outward and visible sign of inward and spiritual
grace: applied by the Eastern, pre-Reformation Western, and
Roman Catholic Churches to the seven rites of baptism,
confirmation, the Eucharist, penance, extreme unction,
ordination, and matrimony, but restricted by most Protestants to
baptism and the Eucharist. 2 a thing of mysterious and sacred
significance; a sacred influence, symbol, etc. 3 (also Blessed
or Holy Sacrament) (prec. by the) a the Eucharist. b the
consecrated elements, esp. the bread or Host. 4 an oath or
solemn engagement taken. [ME f. OF sacrement f. L sacramentum
solemn oath etc. f. sacrare hallow f. sacer SACRED, used in
Christian L as transl. of Gk musterion MYSTERY(1)]
sacramental
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or of the nature of a sacrament or the
sacrament. 2 (of a doctrine etc.) attaching great importance to
the sacraments. --n. an observance analogous to but not
reckoned among the sacraments, e.g. the use of holy water or the
sign of the cross. ЬЬsacramentalism n. sacramentalist n.
sacramentality n. sacramentally adv. [ME f. F sacramental or
LL sacramentalis (as SACRAMENT)]
sacrarium n. (pl. sacraria) 1 the sanctuary of a church. 2 RC Ch. a
piscina. 3 Rom. Antiq. a shrine; the room (in a house)
containing the penates. [L f. sacer sacri holy]
sacred adj. 1 a (often foll. by to) exclusively dedicated or
appropriated (to a god or to some religious purpose). b made
holy by religious association. c connected with religion; used
for a religious purpose (sacred music). 2 a safeguarded or
required by religion, reverence, or tradition. b sacrosanct. 3
(of writings etc.) embodying the laws or doctrines of a
religion. ЬSacred College RC Ch. the body of cardinals.
sacred cow colloq. an idea or institution unreasonably held to
be above criticism (with ref. to the Hindus' respect for the cow
as a holy animal). Sacred Heart RC Ch. the heart of Christ as
an object of devotion. sacred number a number associated with
religious symbolism, e.g. 7. ЬЬsacredly adv. sacredness n.
[ME, past part. of obs. sacre consecrate f. OF sacrer f. L
sacrare f. sacer sacri holy]
sacrifice n. & v. --n. 1 a the act of giving up something valued for the
sake of something else more important or worthy. b a thing
given up in this way. c the loss entailed in this. 2 a the
slaughter of an animal or person or the surrender of a
possession as an offering to a deity. b an animal, person, or
thing offered in this way. 3 an act of prayer, thanksgiving, or
penitence as propitiation. 4 Theol. a Christ's offering of
himself in the Crucifixion. b the Eucharist as either a
propitiatory offering of the body and blood of Christ or an act
of thanksgiving. 5 (in games) a loss incurred deliberately to
avoid a greater loss or to obtain a compensating advantage.
--v. 1 tr. give up (a thing) as a sacrifice. 2 tr. (foll. by
to) devote or give over to. 3 tr. (also absol.) offer or kill
as a sacrifice. ЬЬsacrificial adj. sacrificially adv. [ME f.
OF f. L sacrificium f. sacrificus (as SACRED)]
sacrilege n. the violation or misuse of what is regarded as sacred.
ЬЬsacrilegious adj. sacrilegiously adv. [ME f. OF f. L
sacrilegium f. sacrilegus stealer of sacred things, f. sacer
sacri sacred + legere take possession of]
sacring n. archaic 1 the consecration of the Eucharistic elements. 2
the ordination and consecration of a bishop, sovereign, etc.
Ьsacring bell a bell rung at the elevation of the elements in
the Eucharist. [ME f. obs. sacre: see SACRED]
sacristan n. 1 a person in charge of a sacristy and its contents. 2
archaic the sexton of a parish church. [ME f. med.L sacristanus
(as SACRED)]
sacristy n. (pl. -ies) a room in a church, where the vestments, sacred
vessels, etc., are kept and the celebrant can prepare for a
service. [F sacristie or It. sacrestia or med.L sacristia (as
SACRED)]
sacro- comb. form denoting the sacrum (sacro-iliac).
sacrosanct
adj. (of a person, place, law, etc.) most sacred; inviolable.
ЬЬsacrosanctity n. [L sacrosanctus f. sacro ablat. of sacrum
sacred rite (see SACRED) + sanctus (as SAINT)]
sacrum n. (pl. sacra or sacrums) Anat. a triangular bone formed from
fused vertebrae and situated between the two hip-bones of the
pelvis. [L os sacrum transl. Gk hieron osteon sacred bone (from
its sacrificial use)]
SACW abbr. (in the UK) Senior Aircraftwoman.
SAD abbr. seasonal affective disorder.
sad adj. (sadder, saddest) 1 unhappy; feeling sorrow or regret. 2
causing or suggesting sorrow (a sad story). 3 regrettable. 4
shameful, deplorable (is in a sad state). 5 (of a colour) dull,
neutral-tinted. 6 (of dough etc.) heavy, having failed to rise.
Ьsad-iron a solid flat-iron. sad sack US colloq. a very inept
person. ЬЬsaddish adj. sadly adv. sadness n. [OE s‘d f. Gmc,
rel. to L satis]
sadden v.tr. & intr. make or become sad.
saddle n. & v. --n. 1 a seat of leather etc., usu. raised at the
front and rear, fastened on a horse etc. for riding. 2 a seat
for the rider of a bicycle etc. 3 a joint of meat consisting of
the two loins. 4 a ridge rising to a summit at each end. 5 the
part of a draught-horse's harness to which the shafts are
attached. 6 a part of an animal's back resembling a saddle in
shape or marking. 7 the rear part of a male fowl's back. 8 a
support for a cable or wire on top of a suspension-bridge, pier,
or telegraph-pole. 9 a fireclay bar for supporting ceramic ware
in a kiln. --v.tr. 1 put a saddle on (a horse etc.). 2 a
(foll. by with) burden (a person) with a task, responsibility,
etc. b (foll. by on, upon) impose (a burden) on a person. 3
(of a trainer) enter (a horse) for a race. Ьin the saddle 1
mounted. 2 in office or control. saddle-bag 1 each of a pair
of bags laid across a horse etc. behind the saddle. 2 a bag
attached behind the saddle of a bicycle or motor cycle.
saddle-bow the arched front or rear of a saddle. saddle-cloth a
cloth laid on a horse's back under the saddle. saddle-horse a
horse for riding. saddle-sore chafed by riding on a saddle.
saddle stitch a stitch of thread or a wire staple passed through
the centre of a magazine or booklet. saddle-tree 1 the frame of
a saddle. 2 a tulip-tree (with saddle-shaped leaves).
ЬЬsaddleless adj. [OE sadol, sadul f. Gmc]
saddleback
n. 1 Archit. a tower-roof with two opposite gables. 2 a hill
with a concave upper outline. 3 a black pig with a white stripe
across the back. 4 any of various birds with a saddle-like
marking esp. a New Zealand bird, Philesturnus carunculatus.
ЬЬsaddlebacked adj.
saddler n. a maker of or dealer in saddles and other equipment for
horses.
saddlery n. (pl. -ies) 1 the saddles and other equipment of a saddler.
2 a saddler's business or premises.
Sadducee n. a member of a Jewish sect or party of the time of Christ
that denied the resurrection of the dead, the existence of
spirits, and the obligation of the traditional oral law (cf.
PHARISEE, ESSENE). ЬЬSadducean adj. [OE sadduceas f. LL
Sadducaeus f. Gk Saddoukaios f. Heb. sed–kЊ, prob. = descendant
of Zadok (2 Sam. 8:17)]
sadhu n. (in India) a holy man, sage, or ascetic. [Skr., = holy man]
sadism n. 1 a form of sexual perversion characterized by the enjoyment
of inflicting pain or suffering on others (cf. MASOCHISM). 2
colloq. the enjoyment of cruelty to others. ЬЬsadist n.
sadistic adj. sadistically adv. [F sadisme f. Count or
'Marquis' de Sade, Fr. writer d. 1814]
sado-masochism
n. the combination of sadism and masochism in one person.
ЬЬsado-masochist n. sado-masochistic adj.
s.a.e. abbr. stamped addressed envelope.
safari n. (pl. safaris) 1 a hunting or scientific expedition, esp. in
E. Africa (go on safari). 2 a sightseeing trip to see African
animals in their natural habitat. Ьsafari park an enclosed area
where lions etc. are kept in relatively open spaces for public
viewing from vehicles driven through. safari suit a lightweight
suit usu. with short sleeves and four pleated pockets in the
jacket. [Swahili f. Arab. safara to travel]
safe adj. & n. --adj. 1 a free of danger or injury. b (often foll.
by from) out of or not exposed to danger (safe from their
enemies). 2 affording security or not involving danger or risk
(put it in a safe place). 3 reliable, certain; that can be
reckoned on (a safe catch; a safe method; is safe to win). 4
prevented from escaping or doing harm (have got him safe). 5
(also safe and sound) uninjured; with no harm done. 6 cautious
and unenterprising; consistently moderate. --n. 1 a strong
lockable cabinet etc. for valuables. 2 = meat safe. Ьon the
safe side with a margin of security against risks. safe bet a
bet that is certain to succeed. safe-breaker (or -blower or
-cracker) a person who breaks open and robs safes. safe conduct
1 a privilege of immunity from arrest or harm, esp. on a
particular occasion. 2 a document securing this. safe deposit
a building containing strongrooms and safes let separately.
safe house a place of refuge or rendezvous for spies etc. safe
keeping preservation in a safe place. safe light Photog. a
filtered light for use in a darkroom. safe period the time
during and near the menstrual period when conception is least
likely. safe seat a seat in Parliament etc. that is usually won
with a large margin by a particular party. safe sex sexual
activity in which precautions are taken to reduce the risk of
spreading sexually transmitted diseases, esp. Aids. ЬЬsafely
adv. safeness n. [ME f. AF saf, OF sauf f. L salvus uninjured:
(n.) orig. save f. SAVE(1)]
safeguard n. & v. --n. 1 a proviso, stipulation, quality, or
circumstance, that tends to prevent something undesirable. 2 a
safe conduct. --v.tr. guard or protect (rights etc.) by a
precaution or stipulation. [ME f. AF salve garde, OF sauve
garde (as SAFE, GUARD)]
safety n. (pl. -ies) 1 the condition of being safe; freedom from
danger or risks. 2 (attrib.) a designating any of various
devices for preventing injury from machinery (safety bar; safety
lock). b designating items of protective clothing (safety
helmet). Ьsafety-belt 1 = seat-belt. 2 a belt or strap
securing a person to prevent injury. safety-catch a contrivance
for locking a gun-trigger or preventing the accidental operation
of machinery. safety curtain a fireproof curtain that can be
lowered to cut off the auditorium in a theatre from the stage.
safety factor (or factor of safety) 1 the ratio of a material's
strength to an expected strain. 2 a margin of security against
risks. safety film a cinematographic film on a slow-burning or
non-flammable base. safety first a motto advising caution.
safety fuse 1 a fuse (see FUSE(2)) containing a slow-burning
composition for firing detonators from a distance. 2 Electr. a
protective fuse (see FUSE(1)). safety glass glass that will not
splinter when broken. safety harness a system of belts or
restraints to hold a person to prevent falling or injury.
safety lamp a miner's lamp so protected as not to ignite
firedamp. safety match a match igniting only on a specially
prepared surface. safety net a net placed to catch an acrobat
etc. in case of a fall. safety pin a pin with a point that is
bent back to the head and is held in a guard when closed.
safety razor a razor with a guard to reduce the risk of cutting
the skin. safety-valve 1 (in a steam boiler) a valve opening
automatically to relieve excessive pressure. 2 a means of
giving harmless vent to excitement etc. safety zone US an area
of a road marked off for pedestrians etc. to wait safely. [ME
sauvete f. OF sauvet‚ f. med.L salvitas -tatis f. L salvus (as
SAFE)]
safflower n. 1 a a thistle-like plant, Carthamus tinctorius, yielding a
red dye. b its dried petals. 2 a dye made from these, used in
rouge etc. [Du. saffloer or G Safflor f. OF saffleur f. obs.
It. saffiore, of unkn. orig.]
saffron n. & adj. --n. 1 an orange flavouring and food colouring made
from the dried stigmas of the crocus, Crocus sativus. 2 the
colour of this. 3 = meadow saffron. --adj. saffron-coloured.
ЬЬsaffrony adj. [ME f. OF safran f. Arab. za' faran]
safranine n. (also safranin) any of a large group of mainly red dyes used
in biological staining etc. [F safranine (as SAFFRON): orig. of
dye from saffron]
sag v. & n. --v.intr. (sagged, sagging) 1 sink or subside under
weight or pressure, esp. unevenly. 2 have a downward bulge or
curve in the middle. 3 fall in price. 4 (of a ship) drift from
its course, esp. to leeward. --n. 1 a the amount that a rope
etc. sags. b the distance from the middle of its curve to a
straight line between its supports. 2 a sinking condition;
subsidence. 3 a fall in price. 4 Naut. a tendency to leeward.
ЬЬsaggy adj. [ME f. MLG sacken, Du. zakken subside]
saga n. 1 a long story of heroic achievement, esp. a medieval
Icelandic or Norwegian prose narrative. 2 a series of connected
books giving the history of a family etc. 3 a long involved
story. [ON, = narrative, rel. to SAW(3)]
sagacious adj. 1 mentally penetrating; gifted with discernment; having
practical wisdom. 2 acute-minded, shrewd. 3 (of a saying,
plan, etc.) showing wisdom. 4 (of an animal) exceptionally
intelligent; seeming to reason or deliberate. ЬЬsagaciously
adv. sagacity n. [L sagax sagacis]
sagamore n. = SACHEM 1. [Penobscot sagamo]
sage(1) n. 1 an aromatic herb, Salvia officinalis, with dull
greyish-green leaves. 2 its leaves used in cookery. Ьsage and
onion (or onions) a stuffing used with poultry, pork, etc. sage
Derby (or cheese) a cheese made with an infusion of sage which
flavours and mottles it. sage-green the colour of sage-leaves.
sage tea a medicinal infusion of sage-leaves. ЬЬsagy adj. [ME
f. OF sauge f. L salvia healing plant f. salvus safe]
sage(2) n. & adj. --n. 1 often iron. a profoundly wise man. 2 any of
the ancients traditionally regarded as the wisest of their time.
--adj. 1 profoundly wise, esp. from experience. 2 of or
indicating profound wisdom. 3 often iron. wise-looking;
solemn-faced. ЬЬsagely adv. sageness n. sageship n. [ME f.
OF ult. f. L sapere be wise]
sagebrush n. 1 a growth of shrubby aromatic plants of the genus
Artemisia, esp. A. tridentata, found in some semi-arid regions
of western N. America. 2 this plant.
saggar n. (also sagger) a protective fireclay box enclosing ceramic
ware while it is being fired. [prob. contr. of SAFEGUARD]
sagittal adj. Anat. 1 of or relating to the suture between the parietal
bones of the skull. 2 in the same plane as this, or in a
parallel plane. [F f. med.L sagittalis f. sagitta arrow]
Sagittarius
n. 1 a constellation, traditionally regarded as contained in
the figure of an archer. 2 a the ninth sign of the zodiac (the
Archer). b a person born when the sun is in this sign.
ЬЬSagittarian adj. & n. [ME f. L, = archer, f. sagitta arrow]
sagittate adj. Bot. & Zool. shaped like an arrowhead.
sago n. (pl. -os) 1 a kind of starch, made from the powdered pith
of the sago palm and used in puddings etc. 2 (in full sago
palm) any of several tropical palms and cycads, esp. Cycas
circinalis and Metroxylon sagu, from which sago is made. [Malay
sagu (orig. through Port.)]
saguaro n. (also sahuaro) (pl. -os) a giant cactus, Carnegiea
gigantea, of the SW United States and Mexico. [Mex. Sp.]
sahib n. 1 hist. (in India) a form of address, often placed after the
name, to European men. 2 colloq. a gentleman (pukka sahib).
[Urdu f. Arab. sahib friend, lord]
said past and past part. of SAY(1).
saiga n. an antelope, Saiga tatarica, of the Asian steppes. [Russ.]
sail n. & v. --n. 1 a piece of material (orig. canvas, now usu.
nylon etc.) extended on rigging to catch the wind and propel a
boat or ship. 2 a ship's sails collectively. 3 a a voyage or
excursion in a sailing-ship. b a voyage of specified duration.
4 a ship, esp. as discerned from its sails. 5 (collect.) ships
in a squadron or company (a fleet of twenty sail). 6 (in pl.)
Naut. a sl. a maker or repairer of sails. b hist. a chief
petty officer in charge of rigging. 7 a wind-catching
apparatus, usu. a set of boards, attached to the arm of a
windmill. 8 a the dorsal fin of a sailfish. b the tentacle of
a nautilus. c the float of a Portuguese man-of-war. --v. 1
intr. travel on water by the use of sails or engine-power. 2
tr. a navigate (a ship etc.). b travel on (a sea). 3 tr. set
(a toy boat) afloat. 4 intr. glide or move smoothly or in a
stately manner. 5 intr. (often foll. by through) colloq.
succeed easily (sailed through the exams). Ьsail-arm the arm of
a windmill. sail close to (or near) the wind 1 sail as nearly
against the wind as possible. 2 come close to indecency or
dishonesty; risk overstepping the mark. sail-fluke = MEGRIM(2).
sailing-boat (or -ship or -vessel) a vessel driven by sails.
sailing-master an officer navigating a ship, esp. Brit. a
yacht. sailing orders instructions to a captain regarding
departure, destination, etc. sail into colloq. attack
physically or verbally with force. take in sail 1 furl the sail
or sails of a vessel. 2 moderate one's ambitions. under sail
with sails set. ЬЬsailable adj. sailed adj. (also in comb.).
sailless adj. [OE segel f. Gmc]
sailboard n. a board with a mast and sail, used in windsurfing.
ЬЬsailboarder n. sailboarding n.
sailboat n. US a boat driven by sails.
sailcloth n. 1 canvas for sails. 2 a canvas-like dress material.
sailer n. a ship of specified sailing-power (a good sailer).
sailfish n. 1 any fish of the genus Istiophorus, with a large dorsal
fin. 2 a basking shark.
sailor n. 1 a seaman or mariner, esp. one below the rank of officer.
2 a person considered as liable or not liable to seasickness (a
good sailor). Ьsailor hat 1 a straw hat with a straight narrow
brim and flat top. 2 a hat with a turned-up brim in imitation
of a sailor's, worn by women and children. ЬЬsailoring n.
sailorless adj. sailorly adj. [var. of SAILER]
sailplane n. a glider designed for sustained flight.
sainfoin n. a leguminous plant, Onobrychis viciifolia, grown for fodder
and having pink flowers. [obs. F saintfoin f. mod.L sanum
foenum wholesome hay (because of its medicinal properties)]
saint n. & v. --n. (abbr. St or S; pl. Sts or SS) 1 a holy or (in
some Churches) a canonized person regarded as having a place in
heaven. 2 (Saint or St) the title of a saint or archangel,
hence the name of a church etc. (St Paul's) or (often with the
loss of the apostrophe) the name of a town etc. (St Andrews; St
Albans). 3 a very virtuous person; a person of great real or
affected holiness (would try the patience of a saint). 4 a
member of the company of heaven (with all the angels and
saints). 5 ( Bibl., archaic, and used by Puritans, Mormons,
etc.) one of God's chosen people; a member of the Christian
Church or one's own branch of it. --v.tr. 1 canonize; admit to
the calendar of saints. 2 call or regard as a saint. 3 (as
sainted adj.) sacred; of a saintly life; worthy to be regarded
as a saint. Ьmy sainted aunt see AUNT. saint's day a Church
festival in memory of a saint . ЬЬsaintdom n. sainthood n.
saintlike adj. saintling n. saintship n. [ME f. OF seint,
saint f. L sanctus holy, past part. of sancire consecrate]
St Andrew's cross
n. an X-shaped cross.
St Anthony cross
n. (also St Anthony's cross) a T-shaped cross.
St Anthony's fire
n. erysipelas or ergotism.
St Bernard
n. (in full St Bernard dog) 1 a very large dog of a breed orig.
kept to rescue travellers by the monks of the Hospice on the
Great St Bernard pass in the Alps. 2 this breed.
St Elmo's fire
n. a corposant.
St George's cross
n. a +-shaped cross, red on a white background.
St John's wort
n. any yellow-flowered plant of the genus Hypericum, esp. H.
androsaemum.
St Leger n. a horse-race at Doncaster in England for three-year-olds.
[f. the founder's name]
St Luke's summer
n. Brit. a period of fine weather expected about 18 Oct.
saintly adj. (saintlier, saintliest) very holy or virtuous.
ЬЬsaintliness n.
St Martin's summer
n. Brit. a period of fine weather expected about 11 Nov.
saintpaulia
n. any plant of the genus Saintpaulia, esp. the African violet.
[Baron W. von Saint Paul, Ger. soldier d. 1910, its discoverer]
St Vitus's dance
n. = Sydenham's chorea (see CHOREA).
saith archaic 3rd sing. present of SAY(1).
saithe n. Sc. a codlike fish, Pollachius virens, with skin that soils
fingers like wet coal. Also called COALFISH, COLEY, POLLACK.
[ON seithr]
sake(1) n. (esp. for the sake of or for one's sake) 1 out of
consideration for; in the interest of; because of; owing to (for
my own sake as well as yours). 2 in order to please, honour,
get, or keep (for the sake of uniformity). Ьfor Christ's (or
God's or goodness' or Heaven's or Pete's etc.) sake an
expression of urgency, impatience, supplication, anger, etc.
for old times' sake in memory of former times. [OE sacu
contention, charge, fault, sake f. Gmc]
sake(2) n. a Japanese alcoholic drink made from rice. [Jap.]
saker n. 1 a large falcon, Falco cherrug, used in hawking, esp. the
larger female bird. 2 hist. an old form of cannon. [ME f. OF
sacre (in both senses), f. Arab. sakr]
saki n. (pl. sakis) any monkey of the genus Pithecia or Chiropotes,
native to S. America, having coarse fur and a long
non-prehensile tail. [F f. Tupi ‡ahy]
Sakta n. a member of a Hindu sect worshipping the Sakti. [Skr.
sakta relating to power or to the SAKTI]
Sakti n. (also sakti) (in Hinduism) the female principle, esp. when
personified as the wife of a god. [Skr. sakti power, divine
energy]
sal n. a N. Indian tree, Shorea robusta, yielding teaklike timber
and dammar resin. [Hindi sal]
salaam n. & v. --n. 1 the oriental salutation 'Peace'. 2 an Indian
obeisance, with or without the salutation, consisting of a low
bow of the head and body with the right palm on the forehead. 3
(in pl.) respectful compliments. --v. 1 tr. make a salaam to
(a person). 2 intr. make a salaam . [Arab. salam]
salable var. of SALEABLE.
salacious adj. 1 lustful; lecherous. 2 (of writings, pictures, talk,
etc.) tending to cause sexual desire. ЬЬsalaciously adv.
salaciousness n. salacity n. [L salax salacis f. salire leap]
salad n. 1 a cold dish of various mixtures of raw or cooked
vegetables or herbs, usu. seasoned with oil, vinegar, etc. 2 a
vegetable or herb suitable for eating raw. Ьsalad cream creamy
salad-dressing. salad days a period of youthful inexperience.
salad-dressing a mixture of oil, vinegar, etc., used with salad.
[ME f. OF salade f. Prov. salada ult. f. L sal salt]
salade var. of SALLET.
salamander
n. 1 Zool. any tailed newtlike amphibian of the order Urodela,
esp. the genus Salamandra, once thought able to endure fire. 2
a mythical lizard-like creature credited with this property. 3
US = GOPHER(1) 1. 4 an elemental spirit living in fire. 5 a
red-hot iron used for lighting pipes, gunpowder, etc. 6 a metal
plate heated and placed over food to brown it. ЬЬsalamandrian
adj. salamandrine adj. salamandroid adj. & n. (in sense 1).
[ME f. OF salamandre f. L salamandra f. Gk salamandra]
salami n. (pl. salamis) a highly-seasoned orig. Italian sausage often
flavoured with garlic. [It., pl. of salame, f. LL salare
(unrecorded) to salt]
sal ammoniac
n. ammonium chloride, a white crystalline salt. [L sal
ammoniacus 'salt of Ammon', associated with the Roman temple of
Ammon in N. Africa]
salariat n. the salaried class. [F f. salaire (see SALARY), after
prol‚tariat]
salary n. & v. --n. (pl. -ies) a fixed regular payment, usu. monthly
or quarterly, made by an employer to an employee, esp. a
professional or white-collar worker (cf. WAGE n. 1). --v.tr.
(-ies, -ied) (usu. as salaried adj.) pay a salary to. [ME f. AF
salarie, OF salaire f. L salarium orig. soldier's salt-money f.
sal salt]
sale n. 1 the exchange of a commodity for money etc.; an act or
instance of selling. 2 the amount sold (the sales were
enormous). 3 the rapid disposal of goods at reduced prices for
a period esp. at the end of a season etc. 4 a an event at which
goods are sold. b a public auction. Ьon (or for) sale offered
for purchase. sale of work an event where goods made by
parishioners etc. are sold for charity. sale or return an
arrangement by which a purchaser takes a quantity of goods with
the right of returning surplus goods without payment. sale-ring
a circle of buyers at an auction. sales clerk US a salesman or
saleswoman in a shop. sales department etc. the section of a
firm concerned with selling as opposed to manufacturing or
dispatching goods. sales engineer a salesperson with technical
knowledge of the goods and their market. sales resistance the
opposition or apathy of a prospective customer etc. to be
overcome by salesmanship. sales talk persuasive talk to promote
the sale of goods or the acceptance of an idea etc. sales tax a
tax on sales or on the receipts from sales. [OE sala f. ON]
saleable adj. (also salable) fit to be sold; finding purchasers.
ЬЬsaleability n.
salep n. a starchy preparation of the dried tubers of various
orchids, used in cookery and formerly medicinally. [F f. Turk.
salep f. Arab. (kusa-' l-) ta' lab fox, fox's testicles]
saleratus n. US an ingredient of baking powder consisting mainly of
potassium or sodium bicarbonate. [mod.L sal aeratus aerated
salt]
saleroom n. esp. Brit. a room in which items are sold at auction.
salesgirl n. a saleswoman.
Salesian n. & adj. --n. a member of an educational religious order
within the RC Church. --adj. of or relating to this order. [St
Fran‡ois de Sales, Fr. RC bishop d. 1622]
saleslady n. (pl. -ies) a saleswoman.
salesman n. (pl. -men; fem. saleswoman, pl. -women) 1 a person
employed to sell goods in a shop, or as an agent between the
producer and retailer. 2 US a commercial traveller.
salesmanship
n. 1 skill in selling. 2 the techniques used in selling.
salesperson
n. a salesman or saleswoman (used as a neutral alternative).
salesroom n. US = SALEROOM.
Salian adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to the Salii, a 4th-c. Frankish
people living near the River Ijssel, from which the Merovingians
were descended. --n. a member of this people. [LL Salii]
Salic adj. = SALIAN. ЬSalic law hist. 1 a law excluding females
from dynastic succession, esp. as the alleged fundamental law of
the French monarchy. 2 a Frankish law-book extant in
Merovingian and Carolingian times. [F Salique or med.L Salicus
f. Salii (as SALIAN)]
salicet n. an organ stop like a salicional but one octave higher. [as
SALICIONAL]
salicin n. (also salicine) a bitter crystalline glucoside with
analgesic properties, obtained from poplar and willow bark. [F
salicine f. L salix -icis willow]
salicional
n. an organ stop with a soft reedy tone like that of a
willow-pipe. [G f. L salix as SALICIN]
salicylic acid
n. a bitter chemical used as a fungicide and in the manufacture
of aspirin and dyestuffs. ЬЬsalicylate n. [salicyl its radical
f. F salicyle (as SALICIN)]
salient adj. & n. --adj. 1 jutting out; prominent; conspicuous, most
noticeable. 2 (of an angle, esp. in fortification) pointing
outwards (opp. RE-ENTRANT). 3 Heraldry (of a lion etc.)
standing on its hind legs with the forepaws raised. 4 archaic a
leaping or dancing. b (of water etc.) jetting forth. --n. a
salient angle or part of a work in fortification; an outward
bulge in a line of military attack or defence. Ьsalient point
archaic the initial stage, origin, or first beginning.
ЬЬsalience n. saliency n. saliently adv. [L salire leap]
salientian
adj. & n. = ANURAN. [mod.L Salientia (as SALIENT)]
saliferous
adj. Geol. (of rock etc.) containing much salt. [L sal salt +
-FEROUS]
salina n. a salt lake. [Sp. f. med.L, = salt pit (as SALINE)]
saline adj. & n. --adj. 1 (of natural waters, springs, etc.)
impregnated with or containing salt or salts. 2 (of food or
drink etc.) tasting of salt. 3 of chemical salts. 4 of the
nature of a salt. 5 (of medicine) containing a salt or salts of
alkaline metals or magnesium. --n. 1 a salt lake, spring,
marsh, etc. 2 a salt-pan or salt-works. 3 a saline substance,
esp. a medicine. 4 a solution of salt in water. ЬЬsalinity n.
salinization n. salinometer n. [ME f. L sal salt]
saliva n. liquid secreted into the mouth by glands to provide moisture
and facilitate chewing and swallowing. Ьsaliva test a
scientific test requiring a saliva sample. ЬЬsalivary adj. [ME
f. L]
salivate v. 1 intr. secrete or discharge saliva esp. in excess or in
greedy anticipation. 2 tr. produce an unusual secretion of
saliva in (a person) usu. with mercury. ЬЬsalivation n. [L
salivare (as SALIVA)]
Salk vaccine
n. a vaccine developed against polio. [J. E. Salk, Amer.
scientist b. 1914]
sallee n. (also sally) (pl. -ees or -ies) Austral. any of several
eucalypts and acacias resembling the willow. [Aboriginal]
sallet n. (also salade) hist. a light helmet with an outward-curving
rear part. [F salade ult. f. L caelare engrave f. caelum
chisel]
sallow(1) adj. & v. --adj. (sallower, sallowest) (of the skin or
complexion, or of a person) of a sickly yellow or pale brown.
--v.tr. & intr. make or become sallow. ЬЬsallowish adj.
sallowness n. [OE salo dusky f. Gmc]
sallow(2) n. 1 a willow-tree, esp. one of a low-growing or shrubby kind.
2 the wood or a shoot of this. ЬЬsallowy adj. [OE salh salg-
f. Gmc, rel. to OHG salaha, ON selja, L salix]
Sally n. (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 (usu. prec. by the) the Salvation
Army. 2 a member of this. [abbr.]
sally(1) n. & v. (pl. -ies) --n. 1 a sudden charge from a
fortification upon its besiegers; a sortie. 2 a going forth; an
excursion. 3 a witticism; a piece of banter; a lively remark
esp. by way of attack upon a person or thing or of a diversion
in argument. 4 a sudden start into activity; an outburst. 5
archaic an escapade. --v.intr. (-ies, -ied) 1 (usu. foll. by
out, forth) go for a walk, set out on a journey etc. 2 (usu.
foll. by out) make a military sally. 3 archaic issue or come
out suddenly. Ьsally-port an opening in a fortification for
making a sally from. [F saillie fem. past part. of saillir
issue f. OF salir f. L salire leap]
sally(2) n. (pl. -ies) 1 the part of a bell-rope prepared with inwoven
wool for holding. 2 a the first movement of a bell when set for
ringing. b the bell's position when set. Ьsally-hole the hole
through which the bell-rope passes. [perh. f. SALLY(1) in
sense 'leaping motion']
sally(3) var. of SALLEE.
Sally Lunn
n. Brit. a sweet light teacake, properly served hot. [perh.
f. the name of a woman selling them at Bath c.1800]
salmagundi
n. (pl. salmagundis) 1 a dish of chopped meat, anchovies,
eggs, onions, etc., and seasoning. 2 a general mixture; a
miscellaneous collection of articles, subjects, qualities, etc.
[F salmigondis of unkn. orig.]
salmanazar
n. a wine bottle of about 12 times the standard size.
[Shalmaneser king of Assyria (2 Kings 17-18)]
salmi n. (pl. salmis) a ragout or casserole esp. of partly roasted
game-birds. [F, abbr. formed as SALMAGUNDI]
salmon n. & adj. --n. (pl. same or (esp. of types) salmons) 1 any
anadromous fish of the family Salmonidae, esp. of the genus
Salmo, much prized for its (often smoked) pink flesh. 2
Austral. & NZ the barramundi or a similar fish. --adj.
salmon-pink. Ьsalmon-ladder (or -leap) a series of steps or
other arrangement incorporated in a dam to allow salmon to pass
upstream. salmon-pink the colour of salmon flesh. salmon trout
a large silver-coloured trout, Salmo trutta. ЬЬsalmonoid adj. &
n. (in sense 1). salmony adj. [ME f. AF sa(u)moun, OF saumon
f. L salmo -onis]
salmonella
n. (pl. salmonellae) 1 any bacterium of the genus Salmonella,
esp. any of various serotypes causing food poisoning. 2 food
poisoning caused by infection with salmonellae. ЬЬsalmonellosis
n. [mod.L f. D. E. Salmon, Amer. veterinary surgeon d. 1914]
salon n. 1 the reception room of a large, esp. French or continental,
house. 2 a room or establishment where a hairdresser,
beautician, etc., conducts trade. 3 hist. a meeting of eminent
people in the reception room of a (esp. Parisian) lady of
fashion. 4 (Salon) an annual exhibition in Paris of the work of
living artists. Ьsalon music light music for the drawing-room
etc. [F: see SALOON]
saloon n. 1 a a large room or hall, esp. in a hotel or public
building. b a public room or gallery for a specified purpose
(billiard-saloon; shooting-saloon). 2 (in full saloon car) a
motor car with a closed body and no partition behind the driver.
3 a public room on a ship. 4 US a drinking-bar. 5 (in full
saloon bar) Brit. the more comfortable bar in a public house. 6
(in full saloon car) Brit. a luxurious railway carriage serving
as a lounge etc. Ьsaloon deck a deck for passengers using the
saloon. saloon-keeper US a publican or bartender. saloon
pistol (or rifle) a pistol or rifle adapted for short-range
practice in a shooting-saloon. [F salon f. It. salone augment.
of sala hall]
Salopian n. & adj. --n. a native or inhabitant of Shropshire. --adj. of
or relating to Shropshire. [AF Salopesberia f. ME f. OE
Scrobbesbyrig Shrewsbury]
salpiglossis
n. any solanaceous plant of the genus Salpiglossis, cultivated
for its funnel-shaped flowers. [mod.L, irreg. f. Gk salpigx
trumpet + glossa tongue]
salping- comb. form Med. denoting the Fallopian tubes. [Gk salpigx
salpiggos, lit. 'trumpet']
salpingectomy
n. (pl. -ies) Med. the surgical removal of the Fallopian
tubes.
salpingitis
n. Med. inflammation of the Fallopian tubes.
salsa n. 1 a kind of dance music of Latin American origin,
incorporating jazz and rock elements. 2 a dance performed to
this music. [Sp. (as SAUCE)]
salsify n. (pl. -ies) 1 a European plant, Tragopogon porrifolius, with
long cylindrical fleshy roots. 2 this root used as a vegetable.
Ьblack salsify scorzonera. [F salsifis f. obs. It. salsefica,
of unkn. orig.]
SALT abbr. Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (or Treaty).
salt n., adj., & v. --n. 1 (also common salt) sodium chloride; the
substance that gives sea water its characteristic taste, got in
crystalline form by mining from strata consisting of it or by
the evaporation of sea water, and used for seasoning or
preserving food, or for other purposes. 2 a chemical compound
formed from the reaction of an acid with a base, with all or
part of the hydrogen of the acid replaced by a metal or
metal-like radical. 3 sting; piquancy; pungency; wit (added
salt to the conversation). 4 (in sing. or pl.) a a substance
resembling salt in taste, form, etc. (bath salts; Epsom salts;
smelling-salts). b (esp. in pl.) this type of substance used as
a laxative. 5 a marsh, esp. one flooded by the tide, often used
as a pasture or for collecting water for salt-making. 6 (also
old salt) an experienced sailor. 7 (in pl.) an exceptional rush
of sea water up river. --adj. 1 impregnated with, containing,
or tasting of salt; cured or preserved or seasoned with salt. 2
(of a plant) growing in the sea or in salt marshes. 3 (of tears
etc.) bitter. 4 (of wit) pungent. --v.tr. 1 cure or preserve
with salt or brine. 2 season with salt. 3 make (a narrative
etc.) piquant. 4 sprinkle (the ground etc.) with salt esp. in
order to melt snow etc. 5 treat with a solution of salt or
mixture of salts. 6 (as salted adj.) (of a horse or person)
hardened or proof against diseases etc. caused by the climate or
by special conditions. Ьeat salt with be a guest of. in salt
sprinkled with salt or immersed in brine as a preservative. not
made of salt not disconcerted by wet weather. put salt on the
tail of capture (with ref. to jocular directions given to
children for catching a bird). salt an account sl. set an
extremely high or low price for articles. salt-and-pepper (of
materials etc. and esp. of hair) with light and dark colours
mixed together. salt away (or down) sl. put money etc. by.
salt the books sl. show receipts as larger than they really
have been. salt-cat a mass of salt mixed with gravel, urine,
etc., to attract pigeons and keep them at home. salt dome a
mass of salt forced up into sedimentary rocks. salt fish W.Ind.
preserved cod. salt-glaze a hard stoneware glaze produced by
throwing salt into a hot kiln containing the ware. salt-grass
US grass growing in salt meadows or in alkaline regions. salt
horse Naut. sl. 1 salt beef. 2 a naval officer with general
duties. salt lake a lake of salt water. salt-lick 1 a place
where animals go to lick salt from the ground. 2 this salt.
salt-marsh = sense 5 of n. salt meadow a meadow subject to
flooding with salt water. salt a mine sl. introduce extraneous
ore, material, etc., to make the source seem rich. the salt of
the earth a person or people of great worthiness, reliability,
honesty, etc.; those whose qualities are a model for the rest
(Matt. 5:13). salt-pan a vessel, or a depression near the sea,
used for getting salt by evaporation. salt-shaker US a
container of salt for sprinkling on food. salt-spoon a small
spoon usu. with a short handle and a roundish deep bowl for
taking table salt. salt water 1 sea water. 2 sl. tears.
salt-water adj. of or living in the sea. salt-well a bored
well yielding brine. salt-works a place where salt is produced.
take with a pinch (or grain) of salt regard as exaggerated; be
incredulous about; believe only part of. worth one's salt
efficient, capable. ЬЬsaltish adj. saltless adj. saltly adv.
saltness n. [OE s(e)alt s(e)altan, OS, ON, Goth. salt, OHG
salz f. Gmc]
saltarello
n. (pl. -os or saltarelli) an Italian and Spanish dance for
one couple, with sudden skips. [It. salterello, Sp.
saltarelo, rel. to It. saltare and Sp. saltar leap, dance f. L
saltare (as SALTATION)]
saltation n. 1 the act or an instance of leaping or dancing; a jump. 2 a
sudden transition or movement. ЬЬsaltatory adj. saltatorial
adj. [L saltatio f. saltare frequent. of salire salt- leap]
saltbush n. = ORACHE.
salt-cellar
n. 1 a vessel holding salt for table use. 2 colloq. an
unusually deep hollow above the collar-bone, esp. found in
women. [SALT + obs. saler f. AF f. OF salier salt-box f. L (as
SALARY), assim. to CELLAR]
salter n. 1 a manufacturer or dealer in salt. 2 a workman at a
salt-works. 3 a person who salts fish etc. 4 = dry-salter.
[OE sealtere (as SALT)]
saltern n. 1 a salt-works. 2 a set of pools for the natural
evaporation of sea water. [OE sealt‘rn (as SALT, ‘rn building)]
saltigrade
adj. & n. Zool. --adj. (of arthropods) moving by leaping or
jumping. --n. a saltigrade arthropod, e.g. a spider,
sand-hopper, etc. [mod.L Saltigradae f. L saltus leap f.
salire salt- + -gradus walking]
salting n. 1 in senses of SALT v. 2 (esp. in pl.) Geol. a salt marsh;
a marsh overflowed by the sea.
saltire n. Heraldry an ordinary formed by a bend and a bend sinister
crossing like a St Andrew's cross. Ьin saltire arranged in this
way. ЬЬsaltirewise adv. [ME f. OF sau(l)toir etc.
stirrup-cord, stile, saltire, f. med.L saltatorium (as
SALTATION)]
saltpetre n. (US saltpeter) potassium nitrate, a white crystalline salty
substance used in preserving meat and as a constituent of
gunpowder. [ME f. OF salpetre f. med.L salpetra prob. for sal
petrae (unrecorded) salt of rock (i.e. found as an
incrustation): assim. to SALT]
saltus n. literary a sudden transition; a breach of continuity. [L, =
leap]
saltwort n. any plant of the genus Salsola; glasswort.
salty adj. (saltier, saltiest) tasting of, containing, or preserved
with salt. ЬЬsaltiness n.
salubrious
adj. 1 health-giving; healthy. 2 (of surroundings etc.)
pleasant; agreeable. ЬЬsalubriously adv. salubriousness n.
salubrity n. [L salubris f. salus health]
saluki n. (pl. salukis) 1 a tall swift slender dog of a silky-coated
breed with large ears and a fringed tail and feet. 2 this
breed. [Arab. saluki]
salutary adj. 1 producing good effects; beneficial. 2 archaic
health-giving. [ME f. F salutaire or L salutaris f. salus
-utis health]
salutation
n. 1 a sign or expression of greeting or recognition of
another's arrival or departure. 2 words spoken or written to
enquire about another's health or well-being. ЬЬsalutational
adj. [ME f. OF salutation or L salutatio (as SALUTE)]
salutatory
adj. & n. --adj. of salutation. --n. (pl. -ies) US an
oration, esp. as given by a member of a graduating class, often
the second-ranking member. ЬЬsalutatorian n. (in sense of n.).
[L salutatorius (as SALUTE)]
salute n. & v. --n. 1 a gesture of respect, homage, or courteous
recognition, esp. made to or by a person when arriving or
departing. 2 a Mil. & Naut. a prescribed or specified movement
of the hand or of weapons or flags as a sign of respect or
recognition. b (prec. by the) the attitude taken by an
individual soldier, sailor, policeman, etc., in saluting. 3 the
discharge of a gun or guns as a formal or ceremonial sign of
respect or celebration. 4 Fencing the formal performance of
certain guards etc. by fencers before engaging. --v. 1 a tr.
make a salute to. b intr. (often foll. by to) perform a salute.
2 tr. greet; make a salutation to. 3 tr. (foll. by with)
receive or greet with (a smile etc.). 4 tr. archaic hail as
(king etc.). Ьtake the salute 1 (of the highest officer
present) acknowledge it by gesture as meant for him. 2 receive
ceremonial salutes by members of a procession. ЬЬsaluter n.
[ME f. L salutare f. salus -utis health]
salvage n. & v. --n. 1 the rescue of a ship, its cargo, or other
property, from loss at sea, destruction by fire, etc. 2 the
property etc. saved in this way. 3 a the saving and utilization
of waste paper, scrap material, etc. b the materials salvaged.
4 payment made or due to a person who has saved a ship or its
cargo. --v.tr. 1 save from a wreck, fire, etc. 2 retrieve or
preserve (something favourable) in adverse circumstances (tried
to salvage some dignity). ЬЬsalvageable adj. salvager n. [F
f. med.L salvagium f. L salvare SAVE(1)]
salvation n. 1 the act of saving or being saved; preservation from loss,
calamity, etc. 2 deliverance from sin and its consequences and
admission to heaven, brought about by Christ. 3 a religious
conversion. 4 a person or thing that saves (was the salvation
of). ЬSalvation Army a worldwide evangelical organization on
quasi-military lines for the revival of Christianity and helping
the poor. ЬЬsalvationism n. salvationist n. (both nouns esp.
with ref. to the Salvation Army). [ME f. OF sauvacion,
salvacion, f. eccl.L salvatio -onis f. salvare SAVE(1), transl.
Gk soteria]
salve(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a healing ointment. 2 (often foll. by for) a
thing that is soothing or consoling for wounded feelings, an
uneasy conscience, etc. 3 archaic a thing that explains away a
discrepancy or palliates a fault. --v.tr. 1 soothe (pride,
self-love, conscience, etc.). 2 archaic anoint (a wound etc.).
3 archaic smooth over, make good, vindicate, harmonize, etc.
[OE s(e)alf(e), s(e)alfian f. Gmc; senses 1 and 3 of v. partly
f. L salvare SAVE(1)]
salve(2) v.tr. 1 save (a ship or its cargo) from loss at sea. 2 save
(property) from fire. ЬЬsalvable adj. [back-form. f. SALVAGE]
salver n. a tray usu. of gold, silver, brass, or electroplate, on
which drinks, letters, etc., are offered. [F salve tray for
presenting food to the king f. Sp. salva assaying of food f.
salvar SAVE: assoc. with platter]
Salve Regina
n. 1 a Roman Catholic hymn or prayer said or sung after
compline and after the Divine Office from Trinity Sunday to
Advent. 2 the music for this. [f. the opening words salve
regina hail (holy) queen]
salvia n. any plant of the genus Salvia, esp. S. splendens with red
or blue flowers. [L, = SAGE(1)]
Salvo n. (pl. -os) Austral. sl. a member of the Salvation Army.
[abbr.]
salvo(1) n. (pl. -oes or -os) 1 the simultaneous firing of artillery or
other guns esp. as a salute, or in a sea-fight. 2 a number of
bombs released from aircraft at the same moment. 3 a round or
volley of applause. [earlier salve f. F f. It. salva
salutation (as SAVE(1))]
salvo(2) n. (pl. -os) 1 a saving clause; a reservation (with an express
salvo of their rights). 2 a tacit reservation. 3 a quibbling
evasion; a bad excuse. 4 an expedient for saving reputation or
soothing pride or conscience. [L, ablat. of salvus SAFE as used
in salvo jure without prejudice to the rights of (a person)]
sal volatile
n. ammonium carbonate, esp. in the form of a flavoured solution
in alcohol used as smelling-salts. [mod.L, = volatile salt]
salvor n. a person or ship making or assisting in salvage. [SALVE(2)]
SAM abbr. surface-to-air missile.
Sam. abbr. Samuel (Old Testament).
samadhi n. Buddhism & Hinduism 1 a state of concentration induced by
meditation. 2 a state into which a perfected holy man is said
to pass at his apparent death. [Skr. samadhi contemplation]
samara n. Bot. a winged seed from the sycamore, ash, etc. [mod.L f.
L, = elm-seed]
Samaritan n. & adj. --n. 1 (in full good Samaritan) a charitable or
helpful person (with ref. to Luke 10:33 etc.). 2 a member of an
organization which counsels people in distress by telephone or
face to face. 3 a native of Samaria in West Jordan . 4 the
language of this people. 5 an adherent of the Samaritan
religious system, accepting only the Samaritan Pentateuch.
--adj. of Samaria or the Samaritans. ЬSamaritan Pentateuch a
recension used by Samaritans of which the MSS are in archaic
characters. ЬЬSamaritanism n. [LL Samaritanus f. Gk Samareites
f. Samareia Samaria]
samarium n. Chem. a soft silvery metallic element of the lanthanide
series, occurring naturally in monazite etc. and used in making
ferromagnetic alloys. °Symb.: Sm. [samarskite the mineral in
which its spectrum was first observed, f. Samarski name of a
19th-c. Russ. official]
samba n. & v. --n. 1 a Brazilian dance of African origin. 2 a
ballroom dance imitative of this. 3 the music for this.
--v.intr. (sambas, sambaed or samba'd, sambaing) dance the
samba. [Port., of Afr. orig.]
sambar n. (also samba, sambhar) either of two large deer, Cervus
unicolor or C. equinus, native to S. Asia. [Hindi sa(m)bar]
Sambo n. (pl. -os or -oes) 1 sl. offens. a Black person. 2 (sambo)
hist. a person of mixed race esp. of Negro and Indian or Negro
and European blood. [Sp. zambo perh. = zambo bandy-legged;
sense 1 perh. a different word f. Foulah sambo uncle]
Sam Browne
n. (in full Sam Browne belt) an army officer's belt and the
strap supporting it. [Sir Samuel J. Browne, Brit. military
commander d. 1901]
same adj., pron., & adv. --adj. 1 (often prec. by the) identical;
not different; unchanged (everyone was looking in the same
direction; the same car was used in another crime; saying the
same thing over and over). 2 unvarying, uniform, monotonous
(the same old story). 3 (usu. prec. by this, these, that,
those) (of a person or thing) previously alluded to; just
mentioned; aforesaid (this same man was later my husband).
--pron. (prec. by the) 1 the same person or thing (the others
asked for the same). 2 Law or archaic the person or thing just
mentioned (detected the youth breaking in and apprehended the
same). --adv. (usu. prec. by the) similarly; in the same way
(we all feel the same; I want to go, the same as you do). Ьall
(or just) the same 1 emphatically the same. 2 in spite of
changed conditions, adverse circumstances, etc. (but you should
offer, all the same). at the same time 1 simultaneously. 2
notwithstanding; in spite of circumstances etc. be all (or
just) the same to an expression of indifference or impartiality
(it's all the same to me what we do). by the same token see
TOKEN. same here colloq. the same applies to me. the same to
you! may you do, have, find, etc., the same thing; likewise.
the very same emphatically the same. ЬЬsameness n. [ME f. ON
sami, sama, with Gmc cognates]
samey adj. (samier, samiest) colloq. lacking in variety; monotonous.
ЬЬsameyness n.
samfu n. a suit consisting of a jacket and trousers, worn by Chinese
women and sometimes men. [Cantonese]
Samhain n. Brit. Nov., celebrated by the Celts as a festival marking
the beginning of winter. [Ir. Samhain]
Samian n. & adj. --n. a native or inhabitant of Samos, an island in
the Aegean sea. --adj. of Samos. ЬSamian ware fine red pottery
from various parts of the Roman Empire, esp. Gaulish pottery
often found on Roman sites in Britain. [L Samius f. Gk Samios
Samos]
samisen n. a long three-stringed Japanese guitar, played with a
plectrum. [Jap. f. Chin. san-hsien f. san three + hsien
string]
samite n. hist. a rich medieval dress-fabric of silk occas.
interwoven with gold. [ME f. OF samit f. med.L examitum f. med.
Gk hexamiton f. Gk hexa- six + mitos thread]
samizdat n. a system of clandestine publication of banned literature in
the USSR. [Russ., = self-publishing house]
Samnite n. & adj. --n. 1 a member of a people of ancient Italy often
at war with republican Rome. 2 the language of this people.
--adj. of this people or their language. [ME f. L Samnites
(pl.), rel. to Sabinus SABINE]
Samoan n. & adj. --n. 1 a native of Samoa, a group of islands in the
Pacific. 2 the language of this people. --adj. of or relating
to Samoa or its people or language. [Samoa]
samosa n. a triangular pastry fried in ghee or oil, containing spiced
vegetables or meat. [Hind.]
samovar n. a Russian urn for making tea, with an internal heating tube
to keep water at boiling-point. [Russ., = self-boiler]
Samoyed n. 1 a member of a people of northern Siberia. 2 the language
of this people. 3 (also samoyed) a a dog of a white Arctic
breed. b this breed. [Russ. samoed]
Samoyedic n. & adj. --n. the language of the Samoyeds. --adj. of or
relating to the Samoyeds.
samp n. US 1 coarsely-ground maize. 2 porridge made of this.
[Algonquin nasamp softened by water]
sampan n. a small boat usu. with a stern-oar or stern-oars, used in
the Far East. [Chin. san-ban f. san three + ban board]
samphire n. 1 an umbelliferous maritime rock plant, Crithmum maritimum,
with aromatic fleshy leaves used in pickles. 2 the glasswort.
[earlier samp(i)ere f. F (herbe de) Saint Pierre St Peter('s
herb)]
sample n. & v. --n. 1 a small part or quantity intended to show what
the whole is like. 2 a small amount of fabric, food, or other
commodity, esp. given to a prospective customer. 3 a specimen,
esp. one taken for scientific testing or analysis. 4 an
illustrative or typical example. --v.tr. 1 take or give
samples of. 2 try the qualities of. 3 get a representative
experience of. Ьsample bag Austral. an (orig. free) bag of
advertisers' samples. [ME f. AF assample, OF essample EXAMPLE]
sampler(1)
n. a piece of embroidery worked in various stitches as a
specimen of proficiency (often displayed on a wall etc.). [OF
essamplaire (as EXEMPLAR)]
sampler(2)
n. 1 a person who samples. 2 US a collection of representative
items etc.
samsara n. Ind. Philos. the endless cycle of death and rebirth to
which life in the material world is bound. ЬЬsamsaric adj.
[Skr. samsara a wandering through]
samskara n. Ind. Philos. 1 a purificatory ceremony or rite marking an
event in one's life. 2 a mental impression, instinct, or
memory. [Skr. samskara a making perfect, preparation]
Samson n. a person of great strength or resembling Samson in some
respect. ЬSamson- (or Samson's-) post 1 a strong pillar passing
through the hold of a ship or between decks. 2 a post in a
whaleboat to which a harpoon rope is attached. [LL f. Gk
Sampson f. Heb. sims“n (Judg. 13-16)]
samurai n. (pl. same) 1 a Japanese army officer. 2 hist. a military
retainer of the daimios; a member of a military caste in Japan.
[Jap.]
san n. = SANATORIUM 2. [abbr.]
sanative adj. 1 healing; curative. 2 of or tending to physical or moral
health. [ME f. OF sanatif or LL sanativus f. L sanare cure]
sanatorium
n. (pl. sanatoriums or sanatoria) 1 an establishment for the
treatment of invalids, esp. of convalescents and the chronically
sick. 2 Brit. a room or building for sick people in a school
etc. [mod.L (as SANATIVE)]
sanctify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 consecrate; set apart or observe as holy.
2 purify or free from sin. 3 make legitimate or binding by
religious sanction; justify; give the colour of morality or
innocence to. 4 make productive of or conducive to holiness.
ЬЬsanctification n. sanctifier n. [ME f. OF saintifier f.
eccl.L sanctificare f. L sanctus holy]
sanctimonious
adj. making a show of sanctity or piety. ЬЬsanctimoniously
adv. sanctimoniousness n. sanctimony n. [L sanctimonia
sanctity (as SAINT)]
sanction n. & v. --n. 1 approval or encouragement given to an action
etc. by custom or tradition; express permission. 2 confirmation
or ratification of a law etc. 3 a a penalty for disobeying a
law or rule, or a reward for obeying it. b a clause containing
this. 4 Ethics a consideration operating to enforce obedience
to any rule of conduct. 5 (esp. in pl.) military or esp.
economic action by a State to coerce another to conform to an
international agreement or norms of conduct. 6 Law hist. a law
or decree. --v.tr. 1 authorize, countenance, or agree to (an
action etc.). 2 ratify; attach a penalty or reward to; make
binding. ЬЬsanctionable adj. [F f. L sanctio -onis f. sancire
sanct- make sacred]
sanctitude
n. archaic saintliness. [ME f. L sanctitudo (as SAINT)]
sanctity n. (pl. -ies) 1 holiness of life; saintliness. 2 sacredness;
the state of being hallowed. 3 inviolability. 4 (in pl.)
sacred obligations, feelings, etc. [ME f. OF sain(c)tit‚ or L
sanctitas (as SAINT)]
sanctuary n. (pl. -ies) 1 a holy place; a church, temple, etc. 2 a the
inmost recess or holiest part of a temple etc. b the part of
the chancel containing the high altar. 3 a place where birds,
wild animals, etc., are bred and protected. 4 a place of
refuge, esp. for political refugees. 5 a immunity from arrest.
b the right to offer this. 6 hist. a sacred place where a
fugitive from the law or a debtor was secured by medieval Church
law against arrest or violence. Ьtake sanctuary resort to a
place of refuge. [ME f. AF sanctuarie, OF sanctuaire f. L
sanctuarium (as SAINT)]
sanctum n. (pl. sanctums) 1 a holy place. 2 colloq. a person's
private room, study, or den. Ьsanctum sanctorum 1 the holy of
holies in the Jewish temple. 2 = sense 2 of n. 3 an inner
retreat. 4 an esoteric doctrine etc. [L, neut. of sanctus
holy, past part. of sancire consecrate: sanctorum genit. pl. in
transl. of Heb. kodes hakkш dasЊm holy of holies]
sanctus n. (also Sanctus) 1 the prayer or hymn beginning 'Holy, holy,
holy' said or sung at the end of the Eucharistic preface. 2 the
music for this. Ьsanctus bell a handbell or the bell in the
turret at the junction of the nave and the chancel, rung at the
sanctus or at the elevation of the Eucharist. [ME f. L, = holy]
sand n. & v. --n. 1 a loose granular substance resulting from the
wearing down of esp. siliceous rocks and found on the seashore,
river-beds, deserts, etc. 2 (in pl.) grains of sand. 3 (in
pl.) an expanse or tracts of sand. 4 a light yellow-brown
colour like that of sand. 5 (in pl.) a sandbank. 6 US colloq.
firmness of purpose; grit. --v.tr. 1 smooth or polish with
sandpaper or sand. 2 sprinkle or overlay with, or bury under,
sand. 3 adulterate (sugar etc.) with sand. Ьsand bar a
sandbank at the mouth of a river or US on the coast. sand-bath
a vessel of heated sand to provide uniform heating. sand-bed a
stratum of sand. sand-cloud driving sand in a simoom.
sand-crack 1 a fissure in a horse's hoof. 2 a crack in the
human foot from walking on hot sand. 3 a crack in brick due to
imperfect mixing. sand dollar US any of various round flat sea
urchins, esp. of the order Clypeasteroida. sand-dune (or -hill)
a mound or ridge of sand formed by the wind. sand eel any
eel-like fish of the family Ammodytidae or Hypotychidae: also
called LAUNCE. sand-flea a chigoe or sand-hopper. sand-glass =
HOURGLASS. sand-groper Austral. 1 a gold-rush pioneer. 2 joc.
a Western Australian. sand-hill a dune. sand-hopper any of
various small jumping crustaceans of the order Amphipoda,
burrowing on the seashore. sand-martin a swallow-like bird,
Riparia riparia, nesting in the side of a sandy bank etc. the
sands are running out the allotted time is nearly at an end.
sand-shoe a shoe with a canvas, rubber, hemp, etc., sole for use
on sand. sand-skipper = sand-hopper. sand-yacht a boat on
wheels propelled along a beach by wind. ЬЬsander n. sandlike
adj. [OE sand f. Gmc]
sandal(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a light shoe with an openwork upper or no
upper, attached to the foot usu. by straps. 2 a strap for
fastening a low shoe, passing over the instep or around the
ankle. --v.tr. (sandalled, sandalling; US sandaled, sandaling)
1 (esp. as sandalled adj.) put sandals on (a person, his feet).
2 fasten or provide (a shoe) with a sandal. [ME f. L sandalium
f. Gk sandalion dimin. of sandalon wooden shoe, prob. of Asiatic
orig.]
sandal(2) n. = SANDALWOOD. Ьsandal-tree any tree yielding sandalwood,
esp. the white sandalwood, Santalum album, of India. [ME f.
med.L sandalum, ult. f. Skr. candana]
sandalwood
n. 1 the scented wood of a sandal-tree. 2 a perfume derived
from this. Ьred sandalwood the red wood from either of two SE
Asian trees, Adenanthera pavonina and Pterocarpus santalinus,
used as timber and to produce a red dye. sandalwood oil a
yellow aromatic oil made from the sandal-tree.
sandarac n. (also sandarach) 1 the gummy resin of a N. African conifer,
Tetraclinis articulata, used in making varnish. 2 = REALGAR.
[L sandaraca f. Gk sandarake, of Asiatic orig.]
sandbag n. & v. --n. a bag filled with sand for use: 1 (in
fortification) for making temporary defences or for the
protection of a building etc. against blast and splinters or
floodwaters. 2 as ballast esp. for a boat or balloon. 3 as a
weapon to inflict a heavy blow without leaving a mark. 4 to
stop a draught from a window or door. --v.tr. (-bagged,
-bagging) 1 barricade or defend. 2 place sandbags against (a
window, chink, etc.). 3 fell with a blow from a sandbag. 4 US
coerce by harsh means. ЬЬsandbagger n.
sandbank n. a deposit of sand forming a shallow place in the sea or a
river.
sandblast v. & n. --v.tr. roughen, treat, or clean with a jet of sand
driven by compressed air or steam. --n. this jet.
ЬЬsandblaster n.
sandbox n. 1 Railways a box of sand on a locomotive for sprinkling
slippery rails. 2 Golf a container for sand used in teeing. 3
a sandpit enclosed in a box. 4 hist. a device for sprinkling
sand to dry ink.
sandboy n. Ьhappy as a sandboy extremely happy or carefree. [prob. = a
boy hawking sand for sale]
sandcastle
n. a shape like a castle made in sand, usu. by a child on the
seashore.
sanderling
n. a small wading bird, Calidris alba, of the sandpiper family.
[perh. f. an OE form sandyrthling (unrecorded, as SAND +
yrthling ploughman, also the name of a bird)]
sanders n. (also saunders) sandalwood, esp. red sandalwood. [ME f. OF
sandre var. of sandle SANDAL(2)]
sandfly n. (pl. -ies) 1 any midge of the genus Simulium. 2 any biting
fly of the genus Phlebotomus transmitting the viral disease
leishmaniasis.
sandhi n. Gram. the process whereby the form of a word changes as a
result of its position in an utterance (e.g. the change from a
to an before a vowel). [Skr. samdhi putting together]
sandhog n. US a person who works underwater laying foundations,
constructing tunnels, etc.
sandiver n. liquid scum formed in glass-making. [ME app. f. F suin de
verre exhalation of glass f. suer to sweat]
sandlot n. US a piece of unoccupied sandy land used for children's
games.
sandman n. the personification of tiredness causing children's eyes to
smart towards bedtime.
sandpaper n. paper with sand or another abrasive stuck to it for
smoothing or polishing.
sandpiper n. any of various wading birds of the family Scolopacidae,
frequenting moorland and coastal areas.
sandpit n. a hollow partly filled with sand, usu. for children to play
in.
sandsoap n. heavy-duty gritty soap.
sandstock n. brick made with sand dusted on the surface.
sandstone n. 1 any clastic rock containing particles visible to the naked
eye. 2 a sedimentary rock of consolidated sand commonly red,
yellow, brown, grey, or white.
sandstorm n. a desert storm of wind with clouds of sand.
sandwich n. & v. --n. 1 two or more slices of usu. buttered bread with
a filling of meat, cheese, etc., between them. 2 a cake of two
or more layers with jam or cream between (bake a sponge
sandwich). --v.tr. 1 put (a thing, statement, etc.) between
two of another character. 2 squeeze in between others (sat
sandwiched in the middle). Ьsandwich-board one of two
advertisement boards carried by a sandwich-man. sandwich course
a course of training with alternate periods of practical
experience and theoretical instruction. sandwich-man (pl.
-men) a man who walks the streets with sandwich-boards hanging
before and behind. [4th Earl of Sandwich, Engl. nobleman d.
1792, said to have eaten food in this form so as not to leave
the gaming-table]
sandwort n. any low-growing plant of the genus Arenaria, usu. bearing
small white flowers.
sandy adj. (sandier, sandiest) 1 having the texture of sand. 2
having much sand. 3 a (of hair) yellowish-red. b (of a person)
having sandy hair. Ьsandy blight Austral. conjunctivitis with
sandlike grains in the eye. ЬЬsandiness n. sandyish adj. [OE
sandig (as SAND)]
sane adj. 1 of sound mind; not mad. 2 (of views etc.) moderate;
sensible. ЬЬsanely adv. saneness n. [L sanus healthy]
sang past of SING.
sangar n. (also sanga) a stone breastwork round a hollow. [Pashto
sangar]
sangaree n. a cold drink of wine diluted and spiced. [Sp. sangrЎa
SANGRIA]
sang-froid
n. composure, coolness, etc., in danger or under agitating
circumstances. [F, = cold blood]
sangrail n. = GRAIL. [ME f. OF saint graal (as SAINT, GRAIL)]
sangria n. a Spanish drink of red wine with lemonade, fruit, etc.
[Sp., = bleeding: cf. SANGAREE]
sanguinary
adj. 1 accompanied by or delighting in bloodshed. 2 bloody;
bloodthirsty. 3 (of laws) inflicting death freely.
ЬЬsanguinarily adv. sanguinariness n. [L sanguinarius f.
sanguis -inis blood]
sanguine adj. & n. --adj. 1 optimistic; confident. 2 (of the
complexion) florid; bright; ruddy. 3 hist. of a ruddy
complexion with a courageous and hopeful amorous disposition. 4
hist. of the temperament in which blood predominates over the
other humours. 5 Heraldry or literary blood red. 6 archaic
bloody; bloodthirsty. --n. 1 a blood-red colour. 2 a crayon
of chalk coloured red or flesh with iron oxide. ЬЬsanguinely
adv. sanguineness n. (both in sense 1 of n.). [ME f. OF
sanguin -ine blood-red f. L sanguineus (as SANGUINARY)]
sanguineous
adj. 1 sanguinary. 2 Med. of or relating to blood. 3
blood-red. 4 full-blooded; plethoric. [L sanguineus (as
SANGUINE)]
Sanhedrin n. (also Sanhedrim) the highest court of justice and the
supreme council in ancient Jerusalem with 71 members. [late
Heb. sanhedrЊn f. Gk sunedrion (as SYN-, hedra seat)]
sanicle n. any umbelliferous plant of the genus Sanicula, esp. S.
europaea, formerly believed to have healing properties. [ME
ult. f. med.L sanicula perh. f. L sanus healthy]
sanify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) make healthy; improve the sanitary state of.
[L sanus healthy]
sanitarium
n. (pl. sanitariums or sanitaria) US = SANATORIUM. [pseudo-L
f. L sanitas health]
sanitary adj. 1 of the conditions that affect health, esp. with regard
to dirt and infection. 2 hygienic; free from or designed to
kill germs, infection, etc. Ьsanitary engineer a person dealing
with systems needed to maintain public health. sanitary towel
(US napkin) an absorbent pad used during menstruation. sanitary
ware porcelain for lavatories etc. ЬЬsanitarian n. & adj.
sanitarily adv. sanitariness n. [F sanitaire f. L sanitas: see
SANITY]
sanitation
n. 1 sanitary conditions. 2 the maintenance or improving of
these. 3 the disposal of sewage and refuse from houses etc.
ЬЬsanitate v.tr. & intr. sanitationist n. [irreg. f.
SANITARY]
sanitize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 make sanitary; disinfect. 2 US colloq.
render (information etc.) more acceptable by removing improper
or disturbing material. ЬЬsanitizer n.
sanity n. 1 a the state of being sane. b mental health. 2 the
tendency to avoid extreme views. [ME f. L sanitas (as SANE)]
sank past of SINK.
sannyasi n. (also sanyasi) (pl. same) a Hindu religious mendicant.
[Hindi & Urdu sannyasi f. Skr. samnyasin laying aside f. sam
together, ni down, as throw]
sans prep. archaic or joc. without. [ME f. OF san(z), sen(s) ult.
f. L sine, infl. by L absentia in the absence of]
sansculotte
n. 1 hist. a lower-class Parisian republican in the French
Revolution. 2 an extreme republican or revolutionary.
ЬЬsansculottism n. [F, lit. = without knee-breeches]
sanserif n. & adj. (also sans-serif) Printing --n. a form of type
without serifs. --adj. without serifs. [app. f. SANS + SERIF]
Sanskrit n. & adj. --n. the ancient and sacred language of the Hindus in
India. --adj. of or in this language. ЬЬSanskritic adj.
Sanskritist n. [Skr. samskrta composed, elaborated, f. sam
together, kr make, -ta past part. ending]
Santa Claus
n. (also colloq. Santa) a person said to bring children
presents on the night before Christmas. [orig. US f. Du. dial.
Sante Klaas St Nicholas]
santolina n. any aromatic shrub of the genus Santolina, with finely
divided leaves and small usu. yellow flowers. [mod.L, var. of
SANTONICA]
santonica n. 1 a shrubby wormwood plant, Artemisia cina, yielding
santonin. 2 the dried flower-heads of this used as an
anthelmintic. [L f. Santones an Aquitanian tribe]
santonin n. a toxic drug extracted from santonica and other plants of
the genus Artemisia, used as an anthelmintic. [SANTONICA + -IN]
sanyasi var. of SANNYASI.
sap(1) n. & v. --n. 1 the vital juice circulating in plants. 2
vigour; vitality. 3 = SAPWOOD. 4 US sl. a bludgeon (orig. one
made from a sapling). --v.tr. (sapped, sapping) 1 drain or dry
(wood) of sap. 2 exhaust the vigour of (my energy had been
sapped by disappointment). 3 remove the sapwood from (a log).
4 US sl. hit with a sap. Ьsap-green n. 1 the pigment made from
buckthorn berries. 2 the colour of this. --adj. of this
colour. ЬЬsapful adj. sapless adj. [OE s‘p prob. f. Gmc]
sap(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a tunnel or trench to conceal assailants'
approach to a fortified place; a covered siege-trench. 2 an
insidious or slow undermining of a belief, resolution, etc.
--v. (sapped, sapping) 1 intr. a dig a sap or saps. b
approach by a sap. 2 tr. undermine; make insecure by removing
the foundations. 3 tr. destroy insidiously. [ult. f. It.
zappa spade, spadework, in part through F sappe sap(p)er, prob.
of Arab. orig.]
sap(3) n. sl. a foolish person. [abbr. of sapskull f. SAP(1) =
sapwood + SKULL]
sapanwood var. of SAPPANWOOD.
sapele n. 1 any of several large W. African hardwood trees of the
genus Entandrophragma. 2 the reddish-brown mahogany-like timber
of these trees. [W. Afr. name]
sapid adj. literary 1 having (esp. an agreeable) flavour; savoury;
palatable; not insipid. 2 literary (of talk, writing, etc.) not
vapid or uninteresting. ЬЬsapidity n. [L sapidus f. sapere
taste]
sapient adj. literary 1 wise. 2 aping wisdom; of fancied sagacity.
ЬЬsapience n. sapiently adv. [ME f. OF sapient or L part. stem
of sapere be wise]
sapiential
adj. literary of or relating to wisdom. [ME f. F sapiential or
eccl.L sapientialis f. L sapientia wisdom]
sapling n. 1 a young tree. 2 a youth. 3 a greyhound in its first
year.
sapodilla n. a large evergreen tropical American tree, Manilkara zapota,
with edible fruit and durable wood, and sap from which chicle is
obtained. Ьsapodilla plum the fruit of this tree. [Sp.
zapotillo dimin. of zapote f. Aztec tz potl]
saponaceous
adj. 1 of, like, or containing soap; soapy. 2 joc. unctuous;
flattering. [mod.L saponaceus f. L sapo -onis soap]
saponify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 tr. turn (fat or oil) into soap by reaction
with an alkali. 2 tr. convert (an ester) to an acid and
alcohol. 3 intr. become saponified. ЬЬsaponifiable adj.
saponification n. [F saponifier (as SAPONACEOUS)]
saponin n. any of a group of plant glycosides, esp. those derived from
the bark of the tree Quillaja saponaria, that foam when shaken
with water and are used in detergents and fire extinguishers.
[F saponine f. L sapo -onis soap]
sapor n. 1 a quality perceptible by taste, e.g. sweetness. 2 the
distinctive taste of a substance. 3 the sensation of taste.
[ME f. L sapere taste]
sappanwood
n. (also sapanwood) the heartwood of an E. Indian tree,
Caesalpinia sappan, formerly used as a source of red dye. [Du.
sapan f. Malay sapang, of S. Indian orig.]
sapper n. 1 a person who digs saps. 2 Brit. a soldier of the Royal
Engineers (esp. as the official term for a private).
Sapphic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or relating to Sappho, poetess of Lesbos
c.600 BC, or her poetry. 2 lesbian. --n. (in pl.) (sapphics)
verse in a metre associated with Sappho. [F sa(p)phique f. L
Sapphicus f. Gk Sapphikos f. Sappho]
sapphire n. & adj. --n. 1 a transparent blue precious stone consisting
of corundum. 2 precious transparent corundum of any colour. 3
the bright blue of a sapphire. 4 a humming-bird with bright
blue colouring. --adj. of sapphire blue. Ьsapphire wedding a
45th wedding anniversary. ЬЬsapphirine adj. [ME f. OF safir f.
L sapphirus f. Gk sappheiros prob. = lapis lazuli]
sappy adj. (sappier, sappiest) 1 full of sap. 2 young and vigorous.
ЬЬsappily adv. sappiness n.
sapro- comb. form Biol. rotten, putrefying. [Gk sapros putrid]
saprogenic
adj. causing or produced by putrefaction.
saprophagous
adj. feeding on decaying matter.
saprophile
n. a bacterium inhabiting putrid matter. ЬЬsaprophilous adj.
saprophyte
n. any plant or micro-organism living on dead or decayed
organic matter. ЬЬsaprophytic adj.
sapwood n. the soft outer layers of recently formed wood between the
heartwood and the bark.
saraband n. 1 a stately old Spanish dance. 2 music for this or in its
rhythm, usu. in triple time often with a long note on the second
beat of the bar. [F sarabande f. Sp. & It. zarabanda]
Saracen n. & adj. hist. --n. 1 an Arab or Muslim at the time of the
Crusades. 2 a nomad of the Syrian and Arabian desert. --adj.
of the Saracens. ЬSaracen corn Brit. archaic buckwheat.
Saracen's head the head of a Saracen or Turk as a heraldic
charge or inn-sign. ЬЬSaracenic adj. [ME f. OF sar(r)azin,
sar(r)acin f. LL Saracenus f. late Gk Sarakenos perh. f. Arab.
sarki eastern]
sarangi n. (pl. sarangis) an Indian stringed instrument played with a
bow. [Hindi sarangi]
sarape var. of SERAPE.
sarcasm n. 1 a bitter or wounding remark. 2 a taunt, esp. one
ironically worded. 3 language consisting of such remarks. 4
the faculty of using this. ЬЬsarcastic adj. sarcastically adv.
[F sarcasme or f. LL sarcasmus f. late Gk sarkasmos f. Gk
sarkazo tear flesh, in late Gk gnash the teeth, speak bitterly
f. sarx sarkos flesh]
sarcenet var. of SARSENET.
sarcoma n. (pl. sarcomas or sarcomata) a malignant tumour of
connective or other non-epithelial tissue. ЬЬsarcomatosis n.
sarcomatous adj. [mod.L f. Gk sarkoma f. sarkoo become fleshy
f. sarx sarkos flesh]
sarcophagus
n. (pl. sarcophagi) a stone coffin, esp. one adorned with a
sculpture or inscription. [L f. Gk sarkophagos flesh-consuming
(as SARCOMA, -phagos -eating)]
sarcoplasm
n. Anat. the cytoplasm in which muscle fibrils are embedded.
[Gk sarx sarkos flesh + PLASMA]
sarcous adj. consisting of flesh or muscle. [Gk sarx sarkos flesh]
sard n. a yellow or orange-red cornelian. [ME f. F sarde or L sarda
= LL sardius f. Gk sardios prob. f. Sardo Sardinia]
sardelle n. any of several fish resembling the sardine. [It. sardella
dimin. of sarda f. L (as SARDINE(1))]
sardine(1)
n. a young pilchard or similar young or small herring-like
marine fish. Ьlike sardines crowded close together (as sardines
are in tins). [ME f. OF sardine = It. sardina f. L f. sarda
f. Gk, perh. f. Sardo Sardinia]
sardine(2)
n. a precious stone mentioned in Rev. 4:3. [ME f. LL sardinus
f. Gk sardinos var. of sardios SARD]
sardius n. Bibl. etc. a precious stone. [ME f. LL f. Gk sardios sard]
sardonic adj. 1 grimly jocular. 2 (of laughter etc.) bitterly mocking
or cynical. ЬЬsardonically adv. sardonicism n. [F sardonique,
earlier sardonien f. L sardonius f. Gk sardonios of Sardinia,
alt. of sardanios Homeric epithet of bitter or scornful
laughter]
sardonyx n. onyx in which white layers alternate with sard. [ME f. L f.
Gk sardonux (prob. as SARD, ONYX)]
saree var. of SARI.
sargasso n. (also sargassum) (pl. -os or -oes or sargassa) any seaweed
of the genus Sargassum, with berry-like air-vessels, found
floating in island-like masses, esp. in the Sargasso Sea of the
N. Atlantic. Also called GULFWEED. [Port. sarga‡o, of unkn.
orig.]
sarge n. sl. sergeant. [abbr.]
sari n. (also saree) (pl. saris or sarees) a length of cotton or
silk draped round the body, traditionally worn as a main garment
by Indian women. [Hindi sar(h)i]
sark n. Sc. & N.Engl. a shirt or chemise. [ME serk f. ON serkr f.
Gmc]
sarking n. boarding between the rafters and the roof. [SARK + -ING(1)]
sarky adj. (sarkier, sarkiest) Brit. sl. sarcastic. ЬЬsarkily adv.
sarkiness n. [abbr.]
sarmentose
adj. (also sarmentous) Bot. having long thin trailing shoots.
[L sarmentosus f. sarmenta (pl.) twigs, brushwood, f. sarpere
to prune]
sarnie n. Brit. colloq. a sandwich. [abbr.]
sarong n. 1 a Malay and Javanese garment consisting of a long strip of
(often striped) cloth worn by both sexes tucked round the waist
or under the armpits. 2 a woman's garment resembling this.
[Malay, lit. 'sheath']
saros n. Astron. a period of about 18 years between repetitions of
eclipses. [Gk f. Babylonian sar(u) 3,600 (years)]
sarrusophone
n. a metal wind instrument played with a double reed like an
oboe. [Sarrus, 19th-c. Fr. inventor]
sarsaparilla
n. 1 a preparation of the dried roots of various plants, esp.
smilax, used to flavour some drinks and medicines and formerly
as a tonic. 2 any of the plants yielding this. [Sp.
zarzaparilla f. zarza bramble, prob. + dimin. of parra vine]
sarsen n. Geol. a sandstone boulder carried by ice during a glacial
period. [prob. var. of SARACEN]
sarsenet n. (also sarcenet) a fine soft silk material used esp. for
linings. [ME f. AF sarzinett perh. dimin. of sarzin SARACEN
after OF drap sarrasinois Saracen cloth]
sartorial adj. 1 of a tailor or tailoring. 2 of men's clothes.
ЬЬsartorially adv. [L sartor tailor f. sarcire sart- patch]
sartorius n. Anat. the long narrow muscle running across the front of
each thigh. [mod.L f. L sartor tailor (the muscle being used in
adopting a tailor's cross-legged posture)]
Sarum use n. Eccl. the order of divine service used in the diocese of
Salisbury before the Reformation. [med.L Sarum Salisbury, perh.
f. L Sarisburia]
SAS abbr. (in the UK) Special Air Service.
s.a.s.e. abbr. US self-addressed stamped envelope.
sash(1) n. a long strip or loop of cloth etc. worn over one shoulder
usu. as part of a uniform or insignia, or worn round the waist,
usu. by a woman or child. ЬЬsashed adj. [earlier shash f.
Arab. sas muslin, turban]
sash(2) n. 1 a frame holding the glass in a sash-window and usu. made
to slide up and down in the grooves of a window aperture. 2 the
glazed sliding light of a glasshouse or garden frame.
Ьsash-cord a strong cord attaching the sash-weights to a sash.
sash-tool a glazier's or painter's brush for work on
sash-windows. sash-weight a weight attached to each end of a
sash to balance it at any height. sash-window a window with one
or two sashes of which one or each can be slid vertically over
the other to make an opening. ЬЬsashed adj. [sashes corrupt.
of CHASSIS, mistaken for pl.]
sashay v.intr. esp. US colloq. walk or move ostentatiously,
casually, or diagonally. [corrupt. of CHASSђ]
sashimi n. a Japanese dish of garnished raw fish in thin slices.
[Jap.]
sasin n. = BLACKBUCK. [Nepali]
sasine n. Sc. Law 1 the possession of feudal property. 2 an act or
document granting this. [var. of SEISIN]
Sask. abbr. Saskatchewan.
sasquatch n. a supposed yeti-like animal of NW America. [Amer. Ind.]
sass n. & v. US colloq. --n. impudence, cheek. --v.tr. be impudent
to, cheek. [var. of SAUCE]
sassaby n. (pl. -ies) a S. African antelope, Damaliscus lunatus,
similar to the hartebeest. [Tswana tsess‚be, - bi]
sassafras n. 1 a small tree, Sassafras albidum, native to N. America,
with aromatic leaves and bark. 2 a preparation of oil extracted
from the leaves, or from its bark, used medicinally or in
perfumery. [Sp. sasafr s or Port. sassafraz, of unkn. orig.]
Sassanian n. & adj. (also Sassanid) --n. a member of a Persian dynasty
ruling 211-651. --adj. of or relating to this dynasty. [Sasan,
founder of the dynasty]
Sassenach n. & adj. Sc. & Ir. usu. derog. --n. an English person.
--adj. English. [Gael. Sasunnoch, Ir. Sasanach f. L Saxones
Saxons]
sassy adj. (sassier, sassiest) esp. US colloq. = SAUCY. ЬЬsassily
adv. sassiness n. [var. of SAUCY]
sastrugi n.pl. wavelike irregularities on the surface of hard polar
snow, caused by winds. [Russ. zastrugi small ridges]
Sat. abbr. Saturday.
sat past and past part. of SIT.
Satan n. the Devil; Lucifer. [OE f. LL f. Gk f. Heb. satan lit.
'adversary' f. satan oppose, plot against]
Satanism n. 1 the worship of Satan, with a travesty of Christian forms.
2 the pursuit of evil for its own sake. 3 deliberate
wickedness. ЬЬSatanist n. Satanize v.tr. (also -ise).
Satanology
n. 1 beliefs concerning the Devil. 2 a history or collection
of these.
satay n. (also satai, sat‚) an Indonesian and Malaysian dish
consisting of small pieces of meat grilled on a skewer and usu.
served with spiced sauce. [Malayan satai sate, Indonesian sate]
SATB abbr. Mus. soprano, alto, tenor, and bass (as a combination of
voices).
satchel n. a small bag usu. of leather and hung from the shoulder with
a strap, for carrying books etc. esp. to and from school. [ME
f. OF sachel f. L saccellus (as SACK(1))]
sate v.tr. 1 gratify (desire, or a desirous person) to the full. 2
cloy, surfeit, weary with over-abundance (sated with pleasure).
ЬЬsateless adj. poet. [prob. f. dial. sade, OE sadian (as
SAD), assim. to SATIATE]
sateen n. cotton fabric woven like satin with a glossy surface.
[satin after velveteen]
satellite n. & adj. --n. 1 a celestial body orbiting the earth or
another planet. 2 an artificial body placed in orbit round the
earth or another planet. 3 a follower; a hanger-on. 4 an
underling; a member of an important person's staff or retinue.
5 (in full satellite State) a small country etc. nominally
independent but controlled by or dependent on another. --adj.
1 transmitted by satellite (satellite communications; satellite
television). 2 esp. Computing secondary; dependent; minor
(networks of small satellite computers). Ьsatellite dish a
concave dish-shaped aerial for receiving broadcasting signals
transmitted by satellite. satellite town a small town
economically or otherwise dependent on a nearby larger town.
ЬЬsatellitic adj. satellitism n. [F satellite or L satelles
satellitis attendant]
sati var. of SUTTEE.
satiate adj. & v. --adj. archaic satiated. --v.tr. = SATE.
ЬЬsatiable adj. archaic. satiation n. [L satiatus past part.
of satiare f. satis enough]
satiety n. 1 the state of being glutted or satiated. 2 the feeling of
having too much of something. 3 (foll. by of) a cloyed dislike
of. Ьto satiety to an extent beyond what is desired. [obs. F
saciet‚ f. L satietas -tatis f. satis enough]
satin n., adj., & v. --n. a fabric of silk or various man-made
fibres, with a glossy surface on one side produced by a twill
weave with the weft-threads almost hidden. --adj. smooth as
satin. --v.tr. (satined, satining) give a glossy surface to
(paper). Ьsatin finish 1 a polish given to silver etc. with a
metallic brush. 2 any effect resembling satin in texture
produced on materials in various ways. satin paper fine glossy
writing paper. satin spar a fibrous variety of gypsum. satin
stitch a long straight embroidery stitch, giving the appearance
of satin. satin white a white pigment of calcium sulphate and
alumina. ЬЬsatinized adj. (also -ised). satiny adj. [ME f.
OF f. Arab. zaytuni of Tseutung in China]
satinette n. (also satinet) a satin-like fabric made partly or wholly of
cotton or synthetic fibre.
satinflower
n. 1 any plant of the genus Clarkia, with pink or lavender
flowers. 2 = HONESTY 3.
satinwood n. 1 a (in full Ceylon satinwood) a tree, Chlororylon
swietenia, native to central and southern India and Ceylon. b
(in full West Indian satinwood) a tree, Fagara flava, native to
the West Indies, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and southern Florida. 2
the yellow glossy timber of either of these trees.
satire n. 1 the use of ridicule, irony, sarcasm, etc., to expose folly
or vice or to lampoon an individual. 2 a work or composition in
prose or verse using satire. 3 this branch of literature. 4 a
thing that brings ridicule upon something else. 5 Rom. Antiq. a
poetic medley, esp. a poem ridiculing prevalent vices or
follies. [F satire or L satira later form of satura medley]
satiric adj. 1 of satire or satires. 2 containing satire (wrote a
satiric review). 3 writing satire (a satiric poet). [F
satirique or LL satiricus (as SATIRE)]
satirical adj. 1 = SATIRIC. 2 given to the use of satire in speech or
writing or to cynical observation of others; sarcastic;
humorously critical. ЬЬsatirically adv.
satirist n. 1 a writer of satires. 2 a satirical person.
satirize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 assail or ridicule with satire. 2 write a
satire upon. 3 describe satirically. ЬЬsatirization n. [F
satiriser (as SATIRE)]
satisfaction
n. 1 the act or an instance of satisfying; the state of being
satisfied (heard this with great satisfaction). 2 a thing that
satisfies desire or gratifies feeling (is a great satisfaction
to me). 3 a thing that settles an obligation or pays a debt. 4
a (foll. by for) atonement; compensation (demanded
satisfaction). b Theol. Christ's atonement for the sins of
mankind. Ьto one's satisfaction so that one is satisfied. [ME
f. OF f. L satisfactio -onis (as SATISFY)]
satisfactory
adj. 1 adequate; causing or giving satisfaction (was a
satisfactory pupil). 2 satisfying expectations or needs;
leaving no room for complaint (a satisfactory result).
ЬЬsatisfactorily adv. satisfactoriness n. [F satisfactoire or
med.L satisfactorius (as SATISFY)]
satisfy v. (-ies, -ied) 1 tr. a meet the expectations or desires of;
comply with (a demand). b be accepted by (a person, his taste)
as adequate; be equal to (a preconception etc.). 2 tr. put an
end to (an appetite or want) by supplying what was required. 3
tr. rid (a person) of an appetite or want in a similar way. 4
intr. give satisfaction; leave nothing to be desired. 5 tr. pay
(a debt or creditor). 6 tr. adequately meet, fulfil, or comply
with (conditions, obligations, etc.) (has satisfied all the
legal conditions). 7 tr. (often foll. by of, that) provide with
adequate information or proof, convince (satisfied the others
that they were right; satisfy the court of their innocence). 8
tr. Math. (of a quantity) make (an equation) true. 9 tr. (in
passive) a (foll. by with) contented or pleased with. b (foll.
by to) demand no more than or consider it enough to do.
Ьsatisfy the examiners reach the standard required to pass an
examination. satisfy oneself (often foll. by that + clause) be
certain in one's own mind. ЬЬsatisfiable adj. satisfiability
n. satisfiedly adv. satisfying adj. satisfyingly adv. [ME f.
OF satisfier f. L satisfacere satisfact- f. satis enough]
satori n. Buddhism sudden enlightenment. [Jap.]
satrap n. 1 a provincial governor in the ancient Persian empire. 2 a
subordinate ruler, colonial governor, etc. [ME f. OF satrape or
L satrapa f. Gk satrapes f. OPers. xsathra-pavan
country-protector]
satrapy n. (pl. -ies) a province ruled over by a satrap.
satsuma n. 1 also a variety of tangerine orig. grown in Japan. 2
(Satsuma) (in full Satsuma ware) cream-coloured Japanese
pottery. [Satsuma a province in Japan]
saturate v.tr. 1 fill with moisture; soak thoroughly. 2 (often foll. by
with) fill to capacity. 3 cause (a substance, solution, vapour,
metal, or air) to absorb, hold, or combine with the greatest
possible amount of another substance, or of moisture, magnetism,
electricity, etc. 4 cause (a substance) to combine with the
maximum amount of another substance. 5 supply (a market) beyond
the point at which the demand for a product is satisfied. 6
(foll. by with, in) imbue with or steep in (learning, tradition,
prejudice, etc.). 7 overwhelm (enemy defences, a target area,
etc.) by concentrated bombing. 8 (as saturated adj.) a (of
colour) full; rich; free from an admixture of white. b (of fat
molecules) containing the greatest number of hydrogen atoms.
ЬЬsaturate adj. literary. saturable adj. saturant n. & adj.
[L saturare f. satur full]
saturation
n. the act or an instance of saturating; the state of being
saturated. Ьsaturation point the stage beyond which no more can
be absorbed or accepted.
Saturday n. & adv. --n. the seventh day of the week, following Friday.
--adv. colloq. 1 on Saturday. 2 (Saturdays) on Saturdays;
each Saturday. [OE S‘tern(es) d‘g transl. of L Saturni dies day
of Saturn]
Saturn n. 1 a the sixth planet from the sun, with a system of broad
flat rings circling it, and the most distant of the five planets
known in the ancient world. b Astrol. Saturn as a supposed
astrological influence on those born under its sign,
characterized by coldness and gloominess. 2 Alchemy the metal
lead. ЬЬSaturnian adj. [L Saturnus, Roman god of agriculture,
identified with Kronos, father of Zeus, perh. f. Etruscan]
saturnalia
n. (pl. same or saturnalias) 1 (usu. Saturnalia) Rom.Hist. the
festival of Saturn in December, characterized by unrestrained
merrymaking for all, the predecessor of Christmas. 2 (as sing.
or pl.) a scene of wild revelry or tumult; an orgy.
ЬЬsaturnalian adj. [L, neut. pl. of Saturnalis (as SATURN)]
saturnic adj. Med. affected with lead-poisoning. ЬЬsaturnism [SATURN
2]
saturniid n. any large moth of the family Saturniidae, including emperor
moths. [mod.L]
saturnine adj. 1 a of a sluggish gloomy temperament. b (of looks etc.)
dark and brooding. 2 archaic a of the metal lead. b Med. of or
affected by lead-poisoning. ЬЬsaturninely adv. [ME f. OF
saturnin f. med.L Saturninus (as SATURN)]
satyagraha
n. Ind. 1 hist. a policy of passive resistance to British rule
advocated by Gandhi. 2 passive resistance as a policy. [Skr.
f. satya truth + agraha obstinacy]
satyr n. 1 (in Greek mythology) one of a class of Greek woodland gods
with a horse's ears and tail, or (in Roman representations) with
a goat's ears, tail, legs, and budding horns. 2 a lustful or
sensual man. 3 = SATYRID. [ME f. OF satyre or L satyrus f. Gk
saturos]
satyriasis
n. Med. excessive sexual desire in men. [LL f. Gk saturiasis
(as SATYR)]
satyric adj. (in Greek mythology) of or relating to satyrs. Ьsatyric
drama a kind of ancient Greek comic play with a chorus of
satyrs. [L satyricus f. Gk saturikos (as SATYR)]
satyrid n. any butterfly of the family Satyridae, with distinctive
eyelike markings on the wings. [mod.L Satyridae f. the
genus-name Satyrus (as SATYR)]
sauce n. & v. --n. 1 any of various liquid or semi-solid
preparations taken as a relish with food; the liquid constituent
of a dish (mint sauce; tomato sauce; chicken in a lemon sauce).
2 something adding piquancy or excitement. 3 colloq. impudence,
impertinence, cheek. 4 US stewed fruit etc. eaten as dessert or
used as a garnish. --v.tr. 1 colloq. be impudent to; cheek. 2
archaic a season with sauce or condiments. b add excitement to.
Ьsauce-boat a kind of jug or dish used for serving sauces etc.
sauce for the goose what is appropriate in one case (by
implication appropriate in others). ЬЬsauceless adj. [ME f. OF
ult. f. L salsus f. salere sals- to salt f. sal salt]
saucepan n. a usu. metal cooking pan, usu. round with a lid and a long
handle at the side, used for boiling, stewing, etc., on top of a
cooker. ЬЬsaucepanful n. (pl. -fuls).
saucer n. 1 a shallow circular dish used for standing a cup on and to
catch drips. 2 any similar dish used to stand a plant pot etc.
on. ЬЬsaucerful n. (pl. -fuls). saucerless adj. [ME, =
condiment-dish, f. OF saussier(e) sauce-boat, prob. f. LL
salsarium (as SAUCE)]
saucy adj. (saucier, sauciest) 1 impudent, cheeky. 2 colloq.
smart-looking (a saucy hat). 3 colloq. smutty, suggestive.
ЬЬsaucily adv. sauciness n. [earlier sense 'savoury', f.
SAUCE]
Saudi n. & adj. (also Saudi Arabian) --n. (pl. Saudis) 1 a a native
or national of Saudi Arabia. b a person of Saudi descent. 2 a
member of the dynasty founded by King Saud. --adj. of or
relating to Saudi Arabia or the Saudi dynasty. [A. Ibn- Saud,
Arab. king d. 1953]
sauerkraut
n. a German dish of chopped pickled cabbage. [G f. sauer SOUR
+ Kraut vegetable]
sauger n. US a small American pike-perch. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
sauna n. 1 a Finnish-style steam bath. 2 a building used for this.
[Finn.]
saunders var. of SANDERS.
saunter v. & n. --v.intr. 1 walk slowly; amble, stroll. 2 proceed
without hurry or effort. --n. 1 a leisurely ramble. 2 a slow
gait. ЬЬsaunterer n. [ME, = muse: orig. unkn.]
saurian adj. of or like a lizard. [mod.L Sauria f. Gk saura lizard]
sauropod n. any of a group of plant-eating dinosaurs with a long neck
and tail, and four thick limbs. [Gk saura lizard + pous pod-
foot]
saury n. (pl. -ies) a long-beaked marine fish, Scomberesox saurus,
of temperate waters. [perh. f. LL f. Gk sauros horse-mackerel]
sausage n. 1 a minced pork, beef, or other meat seasoned and often
mixed with other ingredients, encased in cylindrical form in a
skin, for cooking and eating hot or cold. b a length of this.
2 a sausage-shaped object. Ьnot a sausage colloq. nothing at
all. sausage dog Brit. colloq. a dachshund. sausage machine
1 a sausage-making machine. 2 a relentlessly uniform process.
sausage meat minced meat used in sausages or as a stuffing etc.
sausage roll Brit. sausage meat enclosed in a pastry roll and
baked. [ME f. ONF saussiche f. med.L salsicia f. L salsus: see
SAUCE]
saut‚ adj., n., & v. --adj. (esp. of potatoes etc.) quickly fried in
a little hot fat. --n. food cooked in this way. --v.tr.
(saut‚d or saut‚ed) cook in this way. [F, past part. of sauter
jump]
Sauternes n. a sweet white wine from Sauternes in the Bordeaux region of
France.
savage adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 fierce; cruel (savage persecution; a
savage blow). 2 wild; primitive (savage tribes; a savage
animal). 3 archaic (of scenery etc.) uncultivated (a savage
scene). 4 colloq. angry; bad-tempered (in a savage mood). 5
Heraldry (of the human figure) naked. --n. 1 Anthropol.
derog. a member of a primitive tribe. 2 a cruel or barbarous
person. --v.tr. 1 (esp. of a dog, wolf, etc.) attack and bite
or trample. 2 (of a critic etc.) attack fiercely. ЬЬsavagedom
n. savagely adv. savageness n. savagery n. (pl. -ies). [ME
f. OF sauvage wild f. L silvaticus f. silva a wood]
savannah n. (also savanna) a grassy plain in tropical and subtropical
regions, with few or no trees. [Sp. zavana perh. of Carib
orig.]
savant n. (fem. savante) a learned person, esp. a distinguished
scientist etc. [F, part. of savoir know (as SAPIENT)]
savate n. a form of boxing in which feet and fists are used. [F,
orig. a kind of shoe: cf. SABOT]
save(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by from) rescue, preserve,
protect, or deliver from danger, harm, discredit, etc. (saved my
life; saved me from drowning). 2 tr. (often foll. by up) keep
for future use; reserve; refrain from spending (saved up њ150
for a new bike; likes to save plastic bags). 3 tr. (often
refl.) a relieve (another person or oneself) from spending
(money, time, trouble, etc.); prevent exposure to (annoyance
etc.) (saved myself њ50; a word processor saves time). b
obviate the need or likelihood of (soaking saves scrubbing). 4
tr. preserve from damnation; convert (saved her soul). 5 tr. &
refl. husband or preserve (one's strength, health, etc.) (saving
himself for the last lap; save your energy). 6 intr. (often
foll. by up) save money for future use. 7 tr. a avoid losing
(a game, match, etc.). b prevent an opponent from scoring (a
goal etc.). c stop (a ball etc.) from entering the goal. --n.
1 Football etc. the act of preventing an opponent's scoring etc.
2 Bridge a sacrifice-bid to prevent unnecessary losses.
Ьsave-all 1 a device to prevent waste. 2 hist. a pan with a
spike for burning up candle-ends. save appearances present a
prosperous, respectable, etc. appearance. save-as-you-earn
Brit. a method of saving by regular deduction from earnings at
source. save one's breath not waste time speaking to no effect.
save a person's face see FACE. save the situation (or day) find
or provide a solution to difficulty or disaster. save one's
skin (or neck or bacon) avoid loss, injury, or death; escape
from danger. save the tide get in or out (of port etc.) while
it lasts. save the trouble avoid useless or pointless effort.
ЬЬsavable adj. (also saveable). [ME f. AF sa(u)ver, OF salver,
sauver f. LL salvare f. L salvus SAFE]
save(2) prep. & conj. archaic or poet. --prep. except; but (all save
him). --conj. (often foll. by for) unless; but; except (happy
save for one want; is well save that he has a cold). [ME f. OF
sauf sauve f. L salvo, salva, ablat. sing. of salvus SAFE]
saveloy n. a seasoned red pork sausage, dried and smoked, and sold
ready to eat. [corrupt. of F cervelas, -at, f. It. cervellata
(cervello brain)]
saver n. 1 a person who saves esp. money. 2 (often in comb.) a
device for economical use (of time etc.) (found the short cut a
time-saver). 3 Racing sl. a hedging bet.
savin n. (also savine) 1 a bushy juniper, Juniperus sabina, usu.
spreading horizontally, and yielding oil formerly used in the
treatment of amenorrhoea. 2 US = red cedar. [OE f. OF savine
f. L sabina (herba) Sabine (herb)]
saving adj., n., & prep. --adj. (often in comb.) making economical use
of (labour-saving). --n. 1 anything that is saved. 2 an
economy (a saving in expenses). 3 (usu. in pl.) money saved.
--prep. 1 with the exception of; except (all saving that one).
2 without offence to (saving your presence). Ьsaving clause Law
a clause containing a stipulation of exemption etc. saving
grace 1 the redeeming grace of God. 2 a redeeming quality or
characteristic. savings account a deposit account. savings
bank a bank receiving small deposits at interest and returning
the profits to the depositors. savings certificate Brit. an
interest-bearing document issued by the Government for the
benefit of savers. [ME f. SAVE(1): prep. prob. f. SAVE(2)
after touching]
saviour n. (US savior) 1 a person who saves or delivers from danger,
destruction, etc. (the saviour of the nation). 2 (Saviour)
(prec. by the, our) Christ. [ME f. OF sauv‰our f. eccl.L
salvator -oris (transl. Gk soter) f. LL salvare SAVE(1)]
savoir faire
n. the ability to act suitably in any situation; tact. [F, =
know how to do]
savor US var. of SAVOUR.
savory(1) n. (pl. -ies) any herb of the genus Satureia, esp. S.
hortensis and S. montana, used esp. in cookery. [ME saverey,
perh. f. OE s‘therie f. L satureia]
savory(2) US var. of SAVOURY.
savour n. & v. (US savor) --n. 1 a characteristic taste, flavour,
relish, etc. 2 a quality suggestive of or containing a small
amount of another. 3 archaic a characteristic smell. --v. 1
tr. a appreciate and enjoy the taste of (food). b enjoy or
appreciate (an experience etc.). 2 intr. (foll. by of) a
suggest by taste, smell, etc. (savours of mushrooms). b imply
or suggest a specified quality (savours of impertinence).
ЬЬsavourless adj. [ME f. OF f. L sapor -oris f. sapere to
taste]
savoury adj. & n. (US savory) --adj. 1 having an appetizing taste or
smell. 2 (of food) salty or piquant, not sweet (a savoury
omelette). 3 pleasant; acceptable. --n. (pl. -ies) Brit. a
savoury dish served as an appetizer or at the end of dinner.
ЬЬsavourily adv. savouriness n. [ME f. OF savour‚ past part.
(as SAVOUR)]
savoy n. a hardy variety of cabbage with wrinkled leaves. [Savoy in
SE France]
Savoyard n. & adj. --n. a native of Savoy in SE France. --adj. of or
relating to Savoy or its people etc. [F f. Savoie Savoy]
savvy v., n., & adj. sl. --v.intr. & tr. (-ies, -ied) know. --n.
knowingness; shrewdness; understanding. --adj. (savvier,
savviest) US knowing; wise. [orig. Black & Pidgin E after Sp.
sabe usted you know]
saw(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a a hand tool having a toothed blade used to
cut esp. wood with a to-and-fro movement. b any of several
mechanical power-driven devices with a toothed rotating disk or
moving band, for cutting. 2 Zool. etc. a serrated organ or
part. --v. (past part. sawn or sawed) 1 tr. a cut (wood
etc.) with a saw. b make (boards etc.) with a saw. 2 intr. use
a saw. 3 a intr. move to and fro with a motion as of a saw or
person sawing (sawing away on his violin). b tr. divide (the
air etc.) with gesticulations. Ьsaw-doctor a machine for making
the teeth of a saw. saw-edged with a jagged edge like a saw.
saw-frame a frame in which a saw-blade is held taut. saw-gate =
saw-frame. saw-gin = cotton-gin. saw-horse a rack supporting
wood for sawing. sawn-off (US sawed-off) 1 (of a gun) having
part of the barrel sawn off to make it easier to handle and give
a wider field of fire. 2 colloq. (of a person) short. saw-pit
a pit in which the lower of two men working a pit-saw stands.
saw-set a tool for wrenching saw-teeth in alternate directions
to allow the saw to work freely. saw-wort a composite plant,
Serratula tinctoria, yielding a yellow dye from its serrated
leaves. ЬЬsawlike adj. [OE saga f. Gmc]
saw(2) past of SEE(1).
saw(3) n. a proverb; a maxim (that's just an old saw). [OE sagu f.
Gmc, rel. to SAY: cf. SAGA]
sawbill n. a merganser.
sawbones n. sl. a doctor or surgeon.
sawbuck n. US 1 a saw-horse. 2 sl. a $10 note.
sawdust n. powdery particles of wood produced in sawing.
sawfish n. any large marine fish of the family Pristidae, with a
toothed flat snout used as a weapon.
sawfly n. (pl. -flies) any insect of the superfamily Tenthredinidae,
with a serrated ovipositor, the larvae of which are injurious to
plants.
sawmill n. a factory in which wood is sawn mechanically into planks or
boards.
sawn past part. of SAW(1).
sawtooth adj. 1 (also sawtoothed) (esp. of a roof, wave, etc.) shaped
like the teeth of a saw with one steep and one slanting side. 2
(of a wave-form) showing a slow linear rise and rapid linear
fall.
sawyer n. 1 a person who saws timber professionally. 2 US an uprooted
tree held fast by one end in a river. 3 NZ a large wingless
horned grasshopper whose grubs bore in wood. [ME, earlier
sawer, f. SAW(1)]
sax(1) n. colloq. 1 a saxophone. 2 a saxophone-player. ЬЬsaxist n.
[abbr.]
sax(2) n. (also zax) a slater's chopper, with a point for making
nail-holes. [OE seax knife f. Gmc]
saxatile adj. living or growing on or among rocks. [F saxatile or L
saxatilis f. saxum rock]
saxboard n. the uppermost strake of an open boat. [SAX(2) + BOARD]
saxe n. (in full saxe blue) (often attrib.) a lightish blue colour
with a greyish tinge. [F, = Saxony, the source of a dye of this
colour]
saxhorn n. any of a series of different-sized brass wind instruments
with valves and a funnel-shaped mouthpiece, used mainly in
military and brass bands. [Sax, name of its Belgian inventors,
+ HORN]
saxicoline
adj. (also saxicolous) Biol. = SAXATILE. [mod.L saxicolus f.
saxum rock + colere inhabit]
saxifrage n. any plant of the genus Saxifraga, growing on rocky or stony
ground and usu. bearing small white, yellow, or red flowers.
[ME f. OF saxifrage or LL saxifraga (herba) f. L saxum rock +
frangere break]
Saxon n. & adj. --n. 1 hist. a a member of the Germanic people that
conquered parts of England in 5th-6th c. b (usu. Old Saxon)
the language of the Saxons. 2 = ANGLO-SAXON. 3 a native of
modern Saxony in Germany. 4 the Germanic (as opposed to Latin
or Romance) elements of English. --adj. 1 hist. of or
concerning the Saxons. 2 belonging to or originating from the
Saxon language or Old English. 3 of or concerning modern Saxony
or Saxons. ЬSaxon architecture the form of Romanesque
architecture preceding the Norman in England. Saxon blue a
solution of indigo in sulphuric acid as a dye. ЬЬSaxondom n.
Saxonism n. Saxonist n. Saxonize v.tr. & intr. (also -ise).
[ME f. OF f. LL Saxo -onis f. Gk Saxones (pl.) f. WG: cf. OE
Seaxan, Seaxe (pl.)]
saxony n. 1 a fine kind of wool. 2 cloth made from this. [Saxony in
Germany f. LL Saxonia (as SAXON)]
saxophone n. 1 a keyed brass reed instrument in several sizes and
registers, used esp. in jazz and dance music. 2 a
saxophone-player. ЬЬsaxophonic adj. saxophonist n. [Sax (as
SAXHORN) + -PHONE]
say v. & n. --v. (3rd sing. present says; past and past part.
said) 1 tr. (often foll. by that + clause) a utter (specified
words) in a speaking voice; remark (said 'Damn!'; said that he
was satisfied). b put into words; express (that was well said;
cannot say what I feel). 2 tr. (often foll. by that + clause) a
state; promise or prophesy (says that there will be war). b
have specified wording; indicate (says here that he was killed;
the clock says ten to six). 3 tr. (in passive; usu. foll. by to
+ infin.) be asserted or described (is said to be 93 years old).
4 tr. (foll. by to + infin.) colloq. tell a person to do
something (he said to bring the car). 5 tr. convey
(information) (spoke for an hour but said little). 6 tr. put
forward as an argument or excuse (much to be said in favour of
it; what have you to say for yourself?). 7 tr. (often absol.)
form and give an opinion or decision as to (who did it I cannot
say; do say which you prefer). 8 tr. select, assume, or take as
an example or (a specified number etc.) as near enough (shall we
say this one?; paid, say, њ20). 9 tr. a speak the words of
(prayers, Mass, a grace, etc.). b repeat (a lesson etc.);
recite (can't say his tables). 10 tr. Art etc. convey (inner
meaning or intention) (what is the director saying in this
film?). 11 intr. a speak; talk. b (in imper.) poet. tell me
(what is your name, say!). 12 tr. (the said) Law or joc. the
previously mentioned (the said witness). 13 intr. (as int.) US
an exclamation of surprise, to attract attention, etc. --n. 1
a an opportunity for stating one's opinion etc. (let him have
his say). b a stated opinion. 2 a share in a decision (had no
say in the matter). Ьhow say you? Law how do you find?
(addressed to the jury requesting its verdict). I etc. cannot
(or could not) say I etc. do not know. I'll say colloq. yes
indeed. I say! Brit. an exclamation expressing surprise,
drawing attention, etc. it is said the rumour is that. not to
say and indeed; or possibly even (his language was rude not to
say offensive). said he (or I etc.) colloq. or poet. he etc.
said. say for oneself say by way of conversation, oratory, etc.
say much (or something) for indicate the high quality of. say
no refuse or disagree. say out express fully or candidly. says
I (or he etc.) colloq. I, he, etc., said (used in reporting
conversation). say-so 1 the power of decision. 2 mere
assertion (cannot proceed merely on his say-so). say something
make a short speech. says you! colloq. I disagree. say when
colloq. indicate when enough drink or food has been given. say
the word 1 indicate that you agree or give permission. 2 give
the order etc. say yes agree. that is to say 1 in other words,
more explicitly. 2 or at least. they say it is rumoured. to
say nothing of = not to mention (see MENTION). what do (or
would) you say to? would you like? when all is said and done
after all, in the long run. you can say that again! (or you
said it!) colloq. I agree emphatically. you don't say so
colloq. an expression of amazement or disbelief. ЬЬsayable
adj. sayer n. [OE secgan f. Gmc]
SAYE abbr. Brit. save-as-you-earn.
saying n. 1 the act or an instance of saying. 2 a maxim, proverb,
adage, etc. Ьas the saying goes (or is) an expression used in
introducing a proverb, clich‚, etc. go without saying be too
well known or obvious to need mention. there is no saying it is
impossible to know.
SC abbr. 1 US South Carolina (also in official postal use). 2
special constable.
Sc symb. Chem. the element scandium.
sc. abbr. scilicet.
s.c. abbr. small capitals.
scab n. & v. --n. 1 a dry rough crust formed over a cut, sore, etc.
in healing. 2 (often attrib.) colloq. derog. a person who
refuses to strike or join a trade union, or who tries to break a
strike by working; a blackleg. 3 the mange or a similar skin
disease esp. in animals. 4 a fungous plant-disease causing
scablike roughness. 5 a dislikeable person. --v.intr.
(scabbed, scabbing) 1 act as a scab. 2 (of a wound etc.) form a
scab; heal over. ЬЬscabbed adj. scabby adj. (scabbier,
scabbiest). scabbiness n. scablike adj. [ME f. ON skabbr
(unrecorded), corresp. to OE sceabb]
scabbard n. 1 hist. a sheath for a sword, bayonet, etc. 2 US a sheath
for a revolver etc. Ьscabbard-fish any of various silvery-white
marine fish shaped like a sword-scabbard, esp. Lepidopus
caudatus. [ME sca(u)berc etc. f. AF prob. f. Frank.]
scabies n. a contagious skin disease causing severe itching (cf.
ITCH). [ME f. L f. scabere scratch]
scabious n. & adj. --n. any plant of the genus Scabiosa, Knautia, etc.,
with pink, white, or esp. blue pincushion-shaped flowers.
--adj. affected with mange; scabby. [ME f. med.L scabiosa
(herba) formerly regarded as a cure for skin disease: see
SCABIES]
scabrous adj. 1 having a rough surface; bearing short stiff hairs,
scales, etc.; scurfy. 2 (of a subject, situation, etc.)
requiring tactful treatment; hard to handle with decency. 3 a
indecent, salacious. b behaving licentiously. ЬЬscabrously
adv. scabrousness n. [F scabreux or LL scabrosus f. L scaber
rough]
scad n. any fish of the family Carangidae native to tropical and
subtropical seas, usu. having an elongated body and very large
spiky scales. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
scads n.pl. US colloq. large quantities. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
scaffold n. & v. --n. 1 a hist. a raised wooden platform used for the
execution of criminals. b a similar platform used for drying
tobacco etc. 2 = SCAFFOLDING. 3 (prec. by the) death by
execution. --v.tr. attach scaffolding to (a building).
ЬЬscaffolder n. [ME f. AF f. OF (e)schaffaut, earlier
escadafaut: cf. CATAFALQUE]
scaffolding
n. 1 a a temporary structure formed of poles, planks, etc.,
erected by workmen and used by them while building or repairing
a house etc. b materials used for this. 2 a temporary
conceptual framework used for constructing theories etc.
scagliola n. imitation stone or plaster mixed with glue. [It.
scagliuola dimin. of scaglia SCALE(1)]
scalable adj. capable of being scaled or climbed. ЬЬscalability n.
scalar adj. & n. Math. & Physics --adj. (of a quantity) having only
magnitude, not direction. --n. a scalar quantity (cf. VECTOR).
[L scalaris f. scala ladder; see SCALE(3)]
scalawag var. of SCALLYWAG.
scald(1) v. & n. --v.tr. 1 burn (the skin etc.) with hot liquid or
steam. 2 heat (esp. milk) to near boiling-point. 3 (usu. foll.
by out) clean (a pan etc.) by rinsing with boiling water. 4
treat (poultry etc.) with boiling water to remove feathers etc.
--n. 1 a burn etc. caused by scalding. 2 a skin disease caused
esp. by air pollution etc. affecting the fruits of some plants.
Ьlike a scalded cat moving unusually fast. scalded cream a
dessert made from milk scalded and allowed to stand. scalding
tears hot bitter tears of grief etc. ЬЬscalder n. [ME f. AF,
ONF escalder, OF eschalder f. LL excaldare (as EX-(1), L calidus
hot)]
scald(2) var. of SKALD.
scale(1) n. & v. --n. 1 each of the small thin bony or horny
overlapping plates protecting the skin of fish and reptiles. 2
something resembling a fish-scale, esp.: a a pod or husk. b a
flake of skin; a scab. c a rudimentary leaf, feather, or bract.
d each of the structures covering the wings of butterflies and
moths. e Bot. a layer of a bulb. 3 a a flake formed on the
surface of rusty iron. b a thick white deposit formed in a
kettle, boiler, etc. by the action of heat on water. 4 plaque
formed on teeth. --v. 1 tr. remove scale or scales from (fish,
nuts, iron, etc.). 2 tr. remove plaque from (teeth) by
scraping. 3 intr. a (of skin, metal, etc.) form, come off in,
or drop, scales. b (usu. foll. by off) (of scales) come off.
Ьscale-armour hist. armour formed of metal scales attached to
leather etc. scale-board very thin wood used for the back of a
mirror, picture, etc. scale-bug = scale insect. scale-fern any
of various spleenworts, esp. Asplenium ceterach. scale insect
any of various insects, esp. of the family Coccidae, clinging to
plants and secreting a shieldlike scale as covering. scale-leaf
a modified leaf resembling a scale. scale-moss a type of
liverwort with scalelike leaves. scales fall from a person's
eyes a person is no longer deceived (cf. Acts 9:18).
scale-winged lepidopterous. scale-work an overlapping
arrangement. ЬЬscaled adj. (also in comb.). scaleless adj.
scaler n. [ME f. OF escale f. Gmc, rel. to SCALE(2)]
scale(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a (often in pl.) a weighing machine or device
(bathroom scales). b (also scale-pan) each of the dishes on a
simple scale balance. 2 (the Scales) the zodiacal sign or
constellation Libra. --v.tr. (of something weighed) show (a
specified weight) in the scales. Ьpair of scales a simple
balance. throw into the scale cause to be a factor in a
contest, debate, etc. tip (or turn) the scales 1 (usu. foll. by
at) outweigh the opposite scale-pan (at a specified weight);
weigh. 2 (of a motive, circumstance, etc.) be decisive. [ME f.
ON sk l bowl f. Gmc]
scale(3) n. & v. --n. 1 a series of degrees; a graded classification
system (pay fees according to a prescribed scale; high on the
social scale; seven points on the Richter scale). 2 a (often
attrib.) Geog. & Archit. a ratio of size in a map, model,
picture, etc. (on a scale of one centimetre to the kilometre; a
scale model). b relative dimensions or degree (generosity on a
grand scale). 3 Mus. an arrangement of all the notes in any
system of music in ascending or descending order (chromatic
scale; major scale). 4 a a set of marks on a line used in
measuring, reducing, enlarging, etc. b a rule determining the
distances between these. c a piece of metal, apparatus, etc. on
which these are marked. 5 (in full scale of notation) Math. the
ratio between units in a numerical system (decimal scale). --v.
1 tr. a (also absol.) climb (a wall, height, etc.) esp. with a
ladder. b climb (the social scale, heights of ambition, etc.).
2 tr. represent in proportional dimensions; reduce to a common
scale. 3 intr. (of quantities etc.) have a common scale; be
commensurable. Ьeconomies of scale proportionate savings gained
by using larger quantities. in scale (of drawing etc.) in
proportion to the surroundings etc. play (or sing) scales Mus.
perform the notes of a scale as an exercise for the fingers or
voice. scale down make smaller in proportion; reduce in size.
scale up make larger in proportion; increase in size.
scaling-ladder hist. a ladder used to climb esp. fortress
walls, esp. to break a siege. to scale with a uniform reduction
or enlargement. ЬЬscaler n. [(n.) ME (= ladder): (v.) ME f. OF
escaler or med.L scalare f. L scala f. scandere climb]
scalene adj. & n. --adj. (esp. of a triangle) having sides unequal in
length. --n. 1 (in full scalene muscle) = SCALENUS. 2 a
scalene triangle. Ьscalene cone (or cylinder) a cone (or
cylinder) with the axis not perpendicular to the base. [LL
scalenus f. Gk skalenos unequal, rel. to skolios bent]
scalenus n. (pl. scaleni) any of several muscles extending from the
neck to the first and second ribs. [mod.L: see SCALENE]
scallawag var. of SCALLYWAG.
scallion n. a shallot or spring onion; any long-necked onion with a
small bulb. [ME f. AF scal(o)un = OF escalo(i)gne ult. f. L
Ascalonia (caepa) (onion) of Ascalon in anc. Palestine]
scallop n. & v. (also scollop) 1 any of various bivalve molluscs of the
family Pectinidae, esp. of the genus Chlamys or Pecten, much
prized as food. 2 (in full scallop shell) a a single valve from
the shell of a scallop, with grooves and ridges radiating from
the middle of the hinge and edged with small rounded lobes,
often used for cooking or serving food. b hist. a
representation of this shell worn as a pilgrim's badge. 3 (in
pl.) an ornamental edging cut in material in imitation of a
scallop-edge. 4 a small pan or dish shaped like a scallop shell
and used for baking or serving food. --v.tr. (scalloped,
scalloping) 1 cook in a scallop. 2 ornament (an edge or
material) with scallops or scalloping. ЬЬscalloper n.
scalloping n. (in sense 3 of n.). [ME f. OF escalope prob. f.
Gmc]
scallywag n. (also scalawag, scallawag) a scamp; a rascal. [19th-c. US
sl.: orig. unkn.]
scalp n. & v. --n. 1 the skin covering the top of the head, with the
hair etc. attached. 2 a hist. the scalp of an enemy cut or
torn away as a trophy by an American Indian. b a trophy or
symbol of triumph, conquest, etc. 3 Sc. a bare rock projecting
above water etc. --v.tr. 1 hist. take the scalp of (an enemy).
2 criticize savagely. 3 US defeat; humiliate. 4 US colloq.
resell (shares, tickets, etc.) at a high or quick profit.
ЬЬscalpless adj. [ME, prob. of Scand. orig.]
scalpel n. a surgeon's small sharp knife shaped for holding like a pen.
[F scalpel or L scalpellum dimin. of scalprum chisel f.
scalpere scratch]
scalper n. 1 a person or thing that scalps (esp. in sense 4 of v.). 2
(also scauper, scorper) an engraver's tool for hollowing out
woodcut or linocut designs. [SCALP + -ER(1): sense 2 also f. L
scalper cutting tool f. scalpere carve]
scaly adj. (scalier, scaliest) covered in or having many scales or
flakes. ЬЬscaliness n.
scam n. US sl. 1 a trick or swindle; a fraud. 2 a story or rumour.
[20th c.: orig. unkn.]
scammony n. (pl. -ies) an Asian plant, Convolvulus scammonia, bearing
white or pink flowers, the dried roots of which are used as a
purgative. [ME f. OF scamonee, escamonie or L scammonia f. Gk
skammonia]
scamp(1) n. colloq. a rascal; a rogue. ЬЬscampish adj. [scamp rob on
highway, prob. f. MDu. schampen decamp f. OF esc(h)amper (as
EX-(1), L campus field)]
scamp(2) v.tr. do (work etc.) in a perfunctory or inadequate way.
[perh. formed as SCAMP(1): cf. SKIMP]
scamper v. & n. --v.intr. (usu. foll. by about, through) run and skip
impulsively or playfully. --n. the act or an instance of
scampering. [prob. formed as SCAMP(1)]
scampi n.pl. 1 large prawns. 2 (often treated as sing.) a dish of
these, usu. fried. [It.]
scan v. & n. --v. (scanned, scanning) 1 tr. look at intently or
quickly (scanned the horizon; rapidly scanned the speech for
errors). 2 intr. (of a verse etc.) be metrically correct; be
capable of being recited etc. metrically (this line doesn't
scan). 3 tr. a examine all parts of (a surface etc.) to detect
radioactivity etc. b cause (a particular region) to be
traversed by a radar etc. beam. 4 tr. resolve (a picture) into
its elements of light and shade in a prearranged pattern for the
purposes esp. of television transmission. 5 tr. test the metre
of (a line of verse etc.) by reading with the emphasis on its
rhythm, or by examining the number of feet etc. 6 tr. a make a
scan of (the body or part of it). b examine (a patient etc.)
with a scanner. --n. 1 the act or an instance of scanning. 2
an image obtained by scanning or with a scanner. ЬЬscannable
adj. [ME f. L scandere climb: in LL = scan verses (from the
raising of one's foot in marking rhythm)]
scandal n. 1 a a thing or a person causing general public outrage or
indignation. b the outrage etc. so caused, esp. as a subject of
common talk. c malicious gossip or backbiting. 2 Law a public
affront, esp. an irrelevant abusive statement in court.
Ьscandal sheet derog. a newspaper etc. giving prominence to
esp. malicious gossip. ЬЬscandalous adj. scandalously adv.
scandalousness n. [ME f. OF scandale f. eccl.L scandalum f. Gk
skandalon snare, stumbling-block]
scandalize
v.tr. (also -ise) offend the moral feelings, sensibilities,
etc. of; shock. [ME in sense 'make a scandal of' f. F
scandaliser or eccl.L scandaliso f. Gk skandalizo (as SCANDAL)]
scandalmonger
n. a person who spreads malicious scandal.
Scandinavian
n. & adj. --n. 1 a a native or inhabitant of Scandinavia
(Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland). b a person of
Scandinavian descent. 2 the family of languages of Scandinavia.
--adj. of or relating to Scandinavia or its people or languages.
[L Scandinavia]
scandium n. Chem. a rare soft silver-white metallic element occurring
naturally in lanthanide ores. °Symb.: Sc. [mod.L f. Scandia
Scandinavia (source of the minerals containing it)]
scannable see SCAN.
scanner n. 1 a device for scanning or systematically examining all the
parts of something. 2 a machine for measuring the intensity of
radiation, ultrasound reflections, etc., from the body as a
diagnostic aid. 3 a person who scans or examines critically. 4
a person who scans verse.
scansion n. 1 the metrical scanning of verse. 2 the way a verse etc.
scans. [L scansio (LL of metre) f. scandere scans- climb]
scant adj. & v. --adj. barely sufficient; deficient (with scant
regard for the truth; scant of breath). --v.tr. archaic
provide (a supply, material, a person, etc.) grudgingly; skimp;
stint. ЬЬscantly adv. scantness n. [ME f. ON skamt neut. of
skammr short]
scantling n. 1 a a timber beam of small cross-section. b a size to which
a stone or timber is to be cut. 2 a set of standard dimensions
for parts of a structure, esp. in shipbuilding. 3 (usu. foll.
by of) archaic a a specimen or sample. b one's necessary
supply; a modicum or small amount. [alt. after -LING(1) f. obs.
scantlon f. OF escantillon sample]
scanty adj. (scantier, scantiest) 1 of small extent or amount. 2
barely sufficient. ЬЬscantily adv. scantiness n. [obs. scant
scanty supply f. ON skamt neut. adj.: see SCANT]
scape n. 1 a long flower-stalk coming directly from the root. 2 the
base of an insect's antenna. [L scapus f. Gk skapos, rel. to
SCEPTRE]
-scape comb. form forming nouns denoting a view or a representation of
a view (moonscape; seascape). [after LANDSCAPE]
scapegoat n. & v. --n. 1 a person bearing the blame for the sins,
shortcomings, etc. of others, esp. as an expedient. 2 Bibl. a
goat sent into the wilderness after the Jewish chief priest had
symbolically laid the sins of the people upon it (Lev. 16).
--v.tr. make a scapegoat of. ЬЬscapegoater n. [scape (archaic,
= escape) + GOAT, = the goat that escapes]
scapegrace
n. a rascal; a scamp, esp. a young person or child. [scape (as
SCAPEGOAT) + GRACE = one who escapes the grace of God]
scaphoid adj. & n. Anat. = NAVICULAR. [mod.L scaphoides f. Gk
skaphoeides f. skaphos boat]
scapula n. (pl. scapulae or scapulas) the shoulder-blade. [LL, sing.
of L scapulae]
scapular adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to the shoulder or
shoulder-blade. --n. 1 a a monastic short cloak covering the
shoulders. b a symbol of affiliation to an ecclesiastical
order, consisting of two strips of cloth hanging down the breast
and back and joined across the shoulders. 2 a bandage for or
over the shoulders. 3 a scapular feather. Ьscapular feather a
feather growing near the insertion of the wing. [(adj.) f.
SCAPULA: (n.) f. LL scapulare (as SCAPULA)]
scapulary n. (pl. -ies) 1 = SCAPULAR n. 1. 2 = SCAPULAR n. 3. [ME f.
OF eschapeloyre f. med.L scapelorium, scapularium (as SCAPULA)]
scar(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a usu. permanent mark on the skin left after
the healing of a wound, burn, or sore. 2 the lasting effect of
grief etc. on a person's character or disposition. 3 a mark
left by damage etc. (the table bore many scars). 4 a mark left
on the stem etc. of a plant by the fall of a leaf etc. --v.
(scarred, scarring) 1 tr. (esp. as scarred adj.) mark with a
scar or scars (was scarred for life). 2 intr. heal over; form a
scar. 3 tr. form a scar on. ЬЬscarless adj. [ME f. OF
eschar(r)e f. LL eschara f. Gk eskhara scab]
scar(2) n. (also scaur) a steep craggy outcrop of a mountain or cliff.
[ME f. ON sker low reef in the sea]
scarab n. 1 a the sacred dung-beetle of ancient Egypt. b =
SCARABAEID. 2 an ancient Egyptian gem cut in the form of a
beetle and engraved with symbols on its flat side, used as a
signet etc. [L scarabaeus f. Gk skarabeios]
scarabaeid
n. any beetle of the family Scarabaeidae, including the
dung-beetle, cockchafer, etc. [mod.L Scarabaeidae (as SCARAB)]
scaramouch
n. archaic a boastful coward; a braggart. [It. Scaramuccia
stock character in Italian farce f. scaramuccia = SKIRMISH,
infl. by F form Scaramouche]
scarce adj. & adv. --adj. 1 (usu. predic.) (esp. of food, money,
etc.) insufficient for the demand; scanty. 2 hard to find;
rare. --adv. archaic or literary scarcely. Ьmake oneself
scarce colloq. keep out of the way; surreptitiously disappear.
ЬЬscarceness n. [ME f. AF & ONF (e)scars, OF eschars f. L
excerpere: see EXCERPT]
scarcely adv. 1 hardly; barely; only just (I scarcely know him). 2
surely not (he can scarcely have said so). 3 a mild or
apologetic or ironical substitute for 'not' (I scarcely expected
to be insulted).
scarcity n. (pl. -ies) (often foll. by of) a lack or inadequacy, esp.
of food.
scare v. & n. --v. 1 tr. frighten, esp. suddenly (his expression
scared us). 2 tr. (as scared adj.) (usu. foll. by of, or to +
infin.) frightened; terrified (scared of his own shadow). 3 tr.
(usu. foll. by away, off, up, etc.) drive away by frightening.
4 intr. become scared (they don't scare easily). --n. 1 a
sudden attack of fright (gave me a scare). 2 a general, esp.
baseless, fear of war, invasion, epidemic, etc. (a measles
scare). 3 a financial panic causing share-selling etc.
Ьscaredy-cat colloq. a timid person. scare-heading (or -head)
a shockingly sensational newspaper headline. scare up (or out)
esp. US 1 frighten (game etc.) out of cover. 2 colloq. manage
to find; discover (see if we can scare up a meal). ЬЬscarer n.
[ME skerre f. ON skirra frighten f. skjarr timid]
scarecrow n. 1 a human figure dressed in old clothes and set up in a
field to scare birds away. 2 colloq. a badly-dressed,
grotesque-looking, or very thin person. 3 archaic an object of
baseless fear.
scaremonger
n. a person who spreads frightening reports or rumours.
ЬЬscaremongering n.
scarf(1) n. (pl. scarves or scarfs) a square, triangular, or esp. long
narrow strip of material worn round the neck, over the
shoulders, or tied round the head (of a woman), for warmth or
ornament. Ьscarf-pin (or -ring) Brit. an ornamental device for
fastening a scarf. scarf-skin the outermost layer of the skin
constantly scaling off, esp. that at the base of the nails.
scarf-wise worn diagonally across the body from shoulder to hip.
ЬЬscarfed adj. [prob. alt. of scarp (infl. by SCARF(2)) f. ONF
escarpe = OF escherpe sash]
scarf(2) v. & n. --v.tr. join the ends of (pieces of esp. timber, metal,
or leather) by bevelling or notching them to fit and then
bolting, brazing, or sewing them together; cut the blubber of (a
whale). --n. 1 a joint made by scarfing. 2 a cut on a whale
made by scarfing. [ME (earlier as noun) prob. f. OF escarf
(unrecorded) perh. f. ON]
scarifier n. 1 a thing or person that scarifies. 2 a machine with prongs
for loosening soil without turning it. 3 a spiked road-breaking
machine.
scarify(1)
v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 a make superficial incisions in. b cut
off skin from. 2 hurt by severe criticism etc. 3 loosen (soil)
with a scarifier. ЬЬscarification n. [ME f. F scarifier f. LL
scarificare f. L scarifare f. Gk skariphaomai f. skariphos
stylus]
scarious adj. (of a part of a plant etc.) having a dry membranous
appearance; thin and brittle. [F scarieux or mod.L scariosus]
scarlatina
n. = scarlet fever. [mod.L f. It. scarlattina (febbre fever)
dimin. of scarlatto SCARLET]
scarlet n. & adj. --n. 1 a brilliant red colour tinged with orange. 2
clothes or material of this colour (dressed in scarlet). --adj.
of a scarlet colour. Ьscarlet fever an infectious bacterial
fever, affecting esp. children, with a scarlet rash. scarlet
hat RC Ch. a cardinal's hat as a symbol of rank. scarlet
pimpernel a small annual wild plant, Anagallis arvensis, with
small esp. scarlet flowers closing in rainy or cloudy weather:
also called poor man's weather-glass. scarlet rash = ROSEOLA 1.
scarlet runner 1 a runner bean. 2 a scarlet-flowered climber
bearing this bean. scarlet woman derog. a notoriously
promiscuous woman, a prostitute. [ME f. OF escarlate: ult.
orig. unkn.]
scaroid n. & adj. --n. any colourful marine fish of the family
Scaridae, native to tropical and temperate seas, including the
scarus. --adj. of or relating to this family.
scarp n. & v. --n. 1 the inner wall or slope of a ditch in a
fortification (cf. COUNTERSCARP). 2 a steep slope. --v.tr. 1
make (a slope) perpendicular or steep. 2 provide (a ditch) with
a steep scarp and counterscarp. 3 (as scarped adj.) (of a
hillside etc.) steep; precipitous. [It. scarpa]
scarper v.intr. Brit. sl. run away; escape. [prob. f. It. scappare
escape, infl. by rhyming sl. Scapa Flow = go]
scarus n. any fish of the genus Scarus, with brightly coloured scales,
and teeth fused to form a parrot-like beak used for eating
coral. Also called parrot-fish. [L f. Gk skaros]
scat(1) v. & int. colloq. --v.intr. (scatted, scatting) depart
quickly. --int. go! [perh. abbr. of SCATTER]
scat(2) n. & v. --n. improvised jazz singing using sounds imitating
instruments, instead of words. --v.intr. (scatted, scatting)
sing scat. [prob. imit.]
scathe v. & n. --v.tr. 1 poet. injure esp. by blasting or withering.
2 (as scathing adj.) witheringly scornful (scathing sarcasm). 3
(with neg.) do the least harm to (shall not be scathed) (cf.
UNSCATHED). --n. (usu. with neg.) archaic harm; injury (without
scathe). ЬЬscatheless predic.adj. scathingly adv. [(v.) ME f.
ON skatha = OE sceathian: (n.) OE f. ON skathi = OE sceatha
malefactor, injury, f. Gmc]
scatology n. 1 a a morbid interest in excrement. b a preoccupation with
obscene literature, esp. that concerned with the excretory
functions. c such literature. 2 the study of fossilized dung.
3 the study of excrement for esp. diagnosis. ЬЬscatological
adj. [Gk skor skatos dung + -LOGY]
scatter v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a throw here and there; strew (scattered
gravel on the road). b cover by scattering (scattered the road
with gravel). 2 tr. & intr. a move or cause to move in flight
etc.; disperse (scattered to safety at the sound). b disperse
or cause (hopes, clouds, etc.) to disperse. 3 tr. (as scattered
adj.) not clustered together; wide apart; sporadic (scattered
villages). 4 tr. Physics deflect or diffuse (light, particles,
etc.). 5 a intr. (of esp. a shotgun) fire a charge of shot
diffusely. b tr. fire (a charge) in this way. --n. 1 the act
or an instance of scattering. 2 a small amount scattered. 3
the extent of distribution of esp. shot. Ьscatter cushions (or
rugs, etc.) cushions, rugs, etc., placed here and there for
effect. scatter-shot n. & adj. US firing at random.
ЬЬscatterer n. [ME, prob. var. of SHATTER]
scatterbrain
n. a person given to silly or disorganized thought with lack of
concentration. ЬЬscatterbrained adj.
scaup n. any diving duck of the genus Aythya. [scaup Sc. var. of
scalp mussel-bed, which it frequents]
scauper var. of SCALPER 2.
scaur var. of SCAR(2).
scavenge v. 1 tr. & intr. (usu. foll. by for) search for and collect
(discarded items). 2 tr. remove unwanted products from (an
internal-combustion engine cylinder etc.). [back-form. f.
SCAVENGER]
scavenger n. 1 a person who seeks and collects discarded items. 2 an
animal, esp. a beetle, feeding on carrion, refuse, etc. 3 Brit.
archaic a person employed to clean the streets etc.
ЬЬscavengery n. [ME scavager f. AF scawager f. scawage f. ONF
escauwer inspect f. Flem. scauwen, rel. to SHOW: for -n- cf.
MESSENGER]
scazon n. Prosody a Greek or Latin metre of limping character, esp. a
trimeter of two iambuses and a spondee or trochee. [L f. Gk
skazon f. skazo limp]
Sc.D. abbr. Doctor of Science. [L scientiae doctor]
SCE abbr. Scottish Certificate of Education.
scena n. Mus. 1 a scene or part of an opera. 2 an elaborate
dramatic solo usu. including recitative. [It. f. L: see SCENE]
scenario n. (pl. -os) 1 an outline of the plot of a play, film, opera,
etc., with details of the scenes, situations, etc. 2 a
postulated sequence of future events. ЬЬscenarist n. (in sense
1). [It. (as SCENA)]
scend n. & v. Naut. --n. 1 the impulse given by a wave or waves
(scend of the sea). 2 a plunge of a vessel. --v.intr. (of a
vessel) plunge or pitch owing to the impulse of a wave. [alt.
f. SEND or DESCEND]
scene n. 1 a place in which events in real life, drama, or fiction
occur; the locality of an event etc. (the scene was set in
India; the scene of the disaster). 2 a an incident in real
life, fiction, etc. (distressing scenes occurred). b a
description or representation of an incident etc. (scenes of
clerical life). 3 a public incident displaying emotion, temper,
etc., esp. when embarrassing to others (made a scene in the
restaurant). 4 a a continuous portion of a play in a fixed
setting and usu. without a change of personnel; a subdivision
of an act. b a similar section of a film, book, etc. 5 a any
of the pieces of scenery used in a play. b these collectively.
6 a landscape or a view (a desolate scene). 7 colloq. a an
area of action or interest (not my scene). b a way of life; a
milieu (well-known on the jazz scene). 8 archaic the stage of a
theatre. Ьbehind the scenes 1 Theatr. among the actors,
scenery, etc. offstage. 2 not known to the public; secret.
behind-the-scenes (attrib.) secret, using secret information (a
behind-the-scenes investigation). change of scene a variety of
surroundings esp. through travel. come on the scene arrive.
quit the scene die; leave. scene-dock a space for storing
scenery near the stage. scene-shifter a person who moves
scenery in a theatre. scene-shifting this activity. set the
scene 1 describe the location of events. 2 give preliminary
information. [L scena f. Gk skene tent, stage]
scenery n. 1 the general appearance of the natural features of a
landscape, esp. when picturesque. 2 Theatr. the painted
representations of landscape, rooms, etc., used as the
background in a play etc. Ьchange of scenery = change of scene
(see SCENE). [earlier scenary f. It. SCENARIO: assim. to -ERY]
scenic adj. 1 a picturesque; impressive or beautiful (took the scenic
route). b of or concerning natural scenery (flatness is the
main scenic feature). 2 (of a picture etc.) representing an
incident. 3 Theatr. of or on the stage (scenic performances).
Ьscenic railway 1 a miniature railway running through artificial
scenery at funfairs etc. 2 = big dipper 1. ЬЬscenically adv.
[L scenicus f. Gk skenikos of the stage (as SCENE)]
scent n. & v. --n. 1 a distinctive, esp. pleasant, smell (the scent
of hay). 2 a a scent trail left by an animal perceptible to
hounds etc. b clues etc. that can be followed like a scent
trail (lost the scent in Paris). c the power of detecting or
distinguishing smells etc. or of discovering things (some dogs
have little scent; the scent for talent). 3 Brit. = PERFUME 2.
4 a trail laid in a paper-chase. --v. 1 tr. a discern by
scent (the dog scented game). b sense the presence of (scent
treachery). 2 tr. make fragrant or foul-smelling. 3 tr. (as
scented adj.) having esp. a pleasant smell (scented soap). 4
intr. exercise the sense of smell (goes scenting about). 5 tr.
apply the sense of smell to (scented the air). Ьfalse scent 1 a
scent trail laid to deceive. 2 false clues etc. intended to
deflect pursuers. on the scent having a clue. put (or throw)
off the scent deceive by false clues etc. scent-bag a bag of
aniseed etc. used to lay a trail in drag-hunting. scent-gland
(or -organ) a gland in some animals secreting musk, civet, etc.
scent out discover by smelling or searching. ЬЬscentless adj.
[ME sent f. OF sentir perceive, smell, f. L sentire; -c- (17th
c.) unexpl.]
scepsis n. (US skepsis) 1 philosophic doubt. 2 sceptical philosophy.
[Gk skepsis inquiry, doubt f. skeptomai consider]
scepter US var. of SCEPTRE.
sceptic n. & adj. (US skeptic) --n. 1 a person inclined to doubt all
accepted opinions; a cynic. 2 a person who doubts the truth of
Christianity and other religions. 3 hist. a person who accepts
the philosophy of Pyrrhonism. --adj. = SCEPTICAL. ЬЬscepticism
n. [F sceptique or L scepticus f. Gk skeptikos (as SCEPSIS)]
sceptical adj. (US skeptical) 1 inclined to question the truth or
soundness of accepted ideas, facts, etc.; critical; incredulous.
2 Philos. of or accepting the philosophy of Pyrrhonism, denying
the possibility of knowledge. ЬЬsceptically adv.
sceptre n. (US scepter) 1 a staff borne esp. at a coronation as a
symbol of sovereignty. 2 royal or imperial authority.
ЬЬsceptred adj. [ME f. OF (s)ceptre f. L sceptrum f. Gk
skeptron f. skepto lean on]
sch. abbr. 1 scholar. 2 school. 3 schooner.
schadenfreude
n. the malicious enjoyment of another's misfortunes. [G f.
Schaden harm + Freude joy]
schappe n. fabric or yarn made from waste silk. [G, = waste silk]
schedule n. & v. --n. 1 a a list or plan of intended events, times,
etc. b a plan of work (not on my schedule for next week). 2 a
list of rates or prices. 3 US a timetable. 4 a tabulated
inventory etc. esp. as an appendix to a document. --v.tr. 1
include in a schedule. 2 make a schedule of. 3 Brit. include
(a building) in a list for preservation or protection.
Ьaccording to schedule (or on schedule) as planned; on time.
behind schedule behind time. scheduled flight (or service etc.)
a public flight, service, etc., according to a regular
timetable. scheduled territories hist. = sterling area.
ЬЬscheduler n. [ME f. OF cedule f. LL schedula slip of paper,
dimin. of scheda f. Gk skhede papyrus-leaf]
scheelite n. Mineral. calcium tungstate in its mineral crystalline form.
[K. W. Scheele, Sw. chemist d. 1786]
schema n. (pl. schemata or schemas) 1 a synopsis, outline, or
diagram. 2 a proposed arrangement. 3 Logic a syllogistic
figure. 4 (in Kantian philosophy) a conception of what is
common to all members of a class; a general type or essential
form. [Gk skhema -atos form, figure]
schematic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or concerning a scheme or schema. 2
representing objects by symbols etc. --n. a schematic diagram,
esp. of an electronic circuit. ЬЬschematically adv.
schematism
n. a schematic arrangement or presentation. [mod.L
schematismus f. Gk skhematismos (as SCHEMATIZE)]
schematize
v.tr. (also -ise) 1 put in a schematic form; arrange. 2
represent by a scheme or schema. ЬЬschematization n.
scheme n. & v. --n. 1 a a systematic plan or arrangement for work,
action, etc. b a proposed or operational systematic arrangement
(a colour scheme). 2 an artful or deceitful plot. 3 a
timetable, outline, syllabus, etc. --v. 1 intr. (often foll.
by for, or to + infin.) plan esp. secretly or deceitfully;
intrigue. 2 tr. plan to bring about, esp. artfully or
deceitfully (schemed their downfall). ЬЬschemer n. [L schema
f. Gk (as SCHEMA)]
scheming adj. & n. --adj. artful, cunning, or deceitful. --n. plots;
intrigues. ЬЬschemingly adv.
schemozzle
var. of SHEMOZZLE.
scherzando
adv., adj., & n. Mus. --adv. & adj. in a playful manner. --n.
(pl. scherzandos or scherzandi) a passage played in this way.
[It., gerund of scherzare to jest (as SCHERZO)]
scherzo n. (pl. -os) Mus. a vigorous, light, or playful composition,
usu. as a movement in a symphony, sonata, etc. [It., lit.
'jest']
schilling n. 1 the chief monetary unit of Austria. 2 a coin equal to the
value of one schilling. [G (as SHILLING)]
schipperke
n. 1 a small black tailless dog of a breed with a ruff of fur
round its neck. 2 this breed. [Du. dial., = little boatman, f.
its use as a watchdog on barges]
schism n. 1 a the division of a group into opposing sections or
parties. b any of the sections so formed. 2 a the separation
of a Church into two Churches or the secession of a group owing
to doctrinal, disciplinary, etc., differences. b the offence of
causing or promoting such a separation. [ME f. OF s(c)isme f.
eccl.L schisma f. Gk skhisma -atos cleft f. skhizo to split]
schismatic
adj. & n. (also schismatical) --adj. inclining to, concerning,
or guilty of, schism. --n. 1 a holder of schismatic opinions.
2 a member of a schismatic faction or a seceded branch of a
Church. ЬЬschismatically adv. [ME f. OF scismatique f. eccl.L
schismaticus f. eccl.Gk skhismatikos (as SCHISM)]
schist n. a foliated metamorphic rock composed of layers of different
minerals and splitting into thin irregular plates. ЬЬschistose
adj. [F schiste f. L schistos f. Gk skhistos split (as SCHISM)]
schistosomiasis
n. = BILHARZIASIS. [mod.L Schistosoma (the genus-name, as
SCHISTOSOME)]
schizanthus
n. any plant of the genus Schizanthus, with showy flowers in
various colours, and finely-divided leaves. [mod.L f. Gk skhizo
to split + anthos flower]
schizo adj. & n. colloq. --adj. schizophrenic. --n. (pl. -os) a
schizophrenic. [abbr.]
schizocarp
n. Bot. any of a group of dry fruits that split into
single-seeded parts when ripe. ЬЬschizocarpic adj.
schizocarpous adj. [Gk skhizo to split + karpos fruit]
schizoid adj. & n. --adj. (of a person or personality etc.) tending to
or resembling schizophrenia or a schizophrenic, but usu. without
delusions. --n. a schizoid person.
schizomycete
n. a former name for a bacterium. [Gk skhizo to split + mukes
-etos mushroom]
schizophrenia
n. a mental disease marked by a breakdown in the relation
between thoughts, feelings, and actions, frequently accompanied
by delusions and retreat from social life. ЬЬschizophrenic adj.
& n. [mod.L f. Gk skhizo to split + phren mind]
schizothymia
n. Psychol. an introvert condition with a tendency to
schizophrenia. ЬЬschizothymic adj. [mod.L (as SCHIZOPHRENIA +
Gk thumos temper)]
schlemiel n. US colloq. a foolish or unlucky person. [Yiddish shlumiel]
schlep v. & n. (also schlepp) colloq. --v. (schlepped, schlepping) 1
tr. carry, drag. 2 intr. go or work tediously or effortfully.
--n. esp. US trouble or hard work. [Yiddish shlepn f. G
schleppen drag]
schlieren n. 1 a visually discernible area or stratum of different
density in a transparent medium. 2 Geol. an irregular streak of
mineral in igneous rock. [G, pl. of Schliere streak]
schlock n. US colloq. inferior goods; trash. [Yiddish shlak a blow]
schmaltz n. esp. US colloq. sentimentality, esp. in music, drama, etc.
ЬЬschmaltzy adj. (schmaltzier, schmaltziest). [Yiddish f. G
Schmalz dripping, lard]
schmuck n. esp. US sl. a foolish or contemptible person. [Yiddish]
schnapps n. any of various spirits drunk in N. Europe. [G, = dram of
liquor f. LG & Du. snaps mouthful (as SNAP)]
schnauzer n. 1 a dog of a German breed with a close wiry coat and heavy
whiskers round the muzzle. 2 this breed. [G f. Schnauze
muzzle, SNOUT]
schnitzel n. an escalope of veal. ЬWiener (or Vienna) schnitzel a
breaded, fried, and garnished schnitzel. [G, = slice]
schnorkel var. of SNORKEL.
schnorrer n. esp. US sl. a beggar or scrounger; a layabout. [Yiddish
f. G Schnurrer]
scholar n. 1 a learned person, esp. in language, literature, etc.; an
academic. 2 the holder of a scholarship. 3 a a person with
specified academic ability (is a poor scholar). b a person who
learns (am a scholar of life). 4 archaic colloq. a person able
to read and write. 5 archaic a schoolboy or schoolgirl.
Ьscholar's mate see MATE(2). ЬЬscholarly adv. scholarliness n.
[ME f. OE scol(i)ere & OF escol(i)er f. LL scholaris f. L schola
SCHOOL(1)]
scholarship
n. 1 a academic achievement; learning of a high level. b the
methods and standards characteristic of a good scholar (shows
great scholarship). 2 payment from the funds of a school,
university, local government, etc., to maintain a student in
full-time education, awarded on the basis of scholarly
achievement.
scholastic
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or concerning universities, schools,
education, teachers, etc. 2 pedantic; formal (shows scholastic
precision). 3 Philos. hist. of, resembling, or concerning the
schoolmen, esp. in dealing with logical subtleties. --n. 1 a
student. 2 Philos. hist. a schoolman. 3 a theologian of
scholastic tendencies. 4 RC Ch. a member of any of several
religious orders, who is between the novitiate and the
priesthood. ЬЬscholastically adv. scholasticism n. [L
scholasticus f. Gk skholastikos studious f. skholazo be at
leisure, formed as SCHOOL]
scholiast n. hist. an ancient or medieval scholar, esp. a grammarian,
who annotated ancient literary texts. ЬЬscholiastic adj.
[med.Gk skholiastes f. skholiazo write scholia: see SCHOLIUM]
scholium n. (pl. scholia) a marginal note or explanatory comment, esp.
by an ancient grammarian on a classical text. [mod.L f. Gk
skholion f. skhole disputation: see SCHOOL]
school(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a an institution for educating or giving
instruction, esp. Brit. for children under 19 years, or US for
any level of instruction including college or university. b
(attrib.) associated with or for use in school (a school bag;
school dinners). 2 a the buildings used by such an institution.
b the pupils, staff, etc. of a school. c the time during which
teaching is done, or the teaching itself (no school today). 3 a
a branch of study with separate examinations at a university; a
department or faculty (the history school). b Brit. the hall in
which university examinations are held. c (in pl.) Brit. such
examinations. 4 a the disciples, imitators, or followers of a
philosopher, artist, etc. (the school of Epicurus). b a group
of artists etc. whose works share distinctive characteristics.
c a group of people sharing a cause, principle, method, etc.
(school of thought). 5 Brit. a group of gamblers or of persons
drinking together (a poker school). 6 colloq. instructive or
disciplinary circumstances, occupation, etc. (the school of
adversity; learnt in a hard school). 7 hist. a medieval
lecture-room. 8 Mus. (usu. foll. by of) a handbook or book of
instruction (school of counterpoint). 9 (in pl.; prec. by the)
hist. medieval universities, their teachers, disputations, etc.
--v.tr. 1 send to school; provide for the education of. 2
(often foll. by to) discipline; train; control. 3 (as schooled
adj.) (foll. by in) educated or trained (schooled in humility).
Ьat (US in) school attending lessons etc. go to school 1 begin
one's education. 2 attend lessons. leave school finish one's
education. of the old school according to former and esp.
better tradition (a gentleman of the old school). school age
the age-range in which children normally attend school. school
board US or hist. a board or authority for local education.
school-days the time of being at school, esp. in retrospect.
school-inspector a government official reporting on the
efficiency, teaching standards, etc. of schools. school-leaver
Brit. a child leaving school esp. at the minimum specified age.
school-leaving age the minimum age at which a schoolchild may
leave school. school-ma'm (or -marm) US colloq. a
schoolmistress. school-marmish colloq. prim and fussy.
school-ship a training-ship. school-time 1 lesson-time at
school or at home. 2 school-days. school year = academic year.
[ME f. OE scol, scolu, & f. OF escole ult. f. L schola school f.
Gk skhole leisure, disputation, philosophy, lecture-place]
school(2) n. & v. --n. (often foll. by of) a shoal of fish, porpoises,
whales, etc. --v.intr. form schools. [ME f. MLG, MDu. schole
f. WG]
schoolable
adj. liable by age etc. to compulsory education.
schoolboy n. a boy attending school.
schoolchild
n. a child attending school.
schoolfellow
n. a past or esp. present member of the same school.
schoolgirl
n. a girl attending school.
schoolhouse
n. Brit. 1 a building used as a school, esp. in a village. 2
a dwelling-house adjoining a school.
schoolie n. Austral. sl. & dial. a schoolteacher.
schooling n. 1 education, esp. at school. 2 training or discipline, esp.
of an animal.
schoolman n. (pl. -men) 1 hist. a teacher in a medieval European
university. 2 RC Ch. hist. a theologian seeking to deal with
religious doctrines by the rules of Aristotelian logic. 3 US a
male teacher.
schoolmaster
n. a head or assistant male teacher. ЬЬschoolmasterly adj.
schoolmastering
n. teaching as a profession.
schoolmate
n. = SCHOOLFELLOW.
schoolmistress
n. a head or assistant female teacher.
schoolmistressy
adj. colloq. prim and fussy.
schoolroom
n. a room used for lessons in a school or esp. in a private
house.
schoolteacher
n. a person who teaches in a school. ЬЬschoolteaching n.
schooner n. 1 a fore-and-aft rigged ship with two or more masts, the
foremast being smaller than the other masts. 2 a Brit. a
measure or glass for esp. sherry. b US & Austral. a tall
beer-glass. 3 US hist. = prairie schooner. [18th c.: orig.
uncert.]
schorl n. black tourmaline. [G Sch”rl]
schottische
n. 1 a kind of slow polka. 2 the music for this. [G der
schottische Tanz the Scottish dance]
Schottky effect
n. Electronics the increase in thermionic emission from a solid
surface due to the presence of an external electric field. [W.
Schottky, Ger. physicist d. 1976]
Schr”dinger equation
n. Physics a differential equation used in quantum mechanics
for the wave function of a particle. [E. Schr”dinger, Austrian
physicist d. 1961]
schuss n. & v. --n. a straight downhill run on skis. --v.intr. make a
schuss. [G, lit. 'shot']
schwa n. (also sheva) Phonet. 1 the indistinct unstressed vowel
sound as in a mom ent ago. 2 the symbol representing this in
the International Phonetic Alphabet. [G f. Heb. sewa, app. f.
saw' emptiness]
sciagraphy
n. (also skiagraphy) the art of shading in drawing etc.
ЬЬsciagram n. sciagraph n. & v.tr. sciagraphic adj. [F
sciagraphie f. L sciagraphia f. Gk skiagraphia f. skia shadow]
sciamachy n. (also skiamachy) formal 1 fighting with shadows. 2
imaginary or futile combat. [Gk skiamakhia (as SCIAGRAPHY,
-makhia -fighting)]
sciatic adj. 1 of the hip. 2 of or affecting the sciatic nerve. 3
suffering from or liable to sciatica. Ьsciatic nerve the
largest nerve in the human body, running from the pelvis to the
thigh. ЬЬsciatically adv. [F sciatique f. LL sciaticus f. L
ischiadicus f. Gk iskhiadikos subject to sciatica f. iskhion
hip-joint]
sciatica n. neuralgia of the hip and thigh; a pain in the sciatic nerve.
[ME f. LL sciatica (passio) fem. of sciaticus: see SCIATIC]
science n. 1 a branch of knowledge conducted on objective principles
involving the systematized observation of and experiment with
phenomena, esp. concerned with the material and functions of the
physical universe (see also natural science). 2 a systematic
and formulated knowledge, esp. of a specified type or on a
specified subject (political science). b the pursuit or
principles of this. 3 an organized body of knowledge on a
subject (the science of philology). 4 skilful technique rather
than strength or natural ability. 5 archaic knowledge of any
kind. Ьscience fiction fiction based on imagined future
scientific discoveries or environmental changes, frequently
dealing with space travel, life on other planets, etc. science
park an area devoted to scientific research or the development
of science-based industries. [ME f. OF f. L scientia f. scire
know]
scienter adv. Law intentionally; knowingly. [L f. scire know]
sciential adj. concerning or having knowledge. [LL scientialis (as
SCIENCE)]
scientific
adj. 1 a (of an investigation etc.) according to rules laid
down in exact science for performing observations and testing
the soundness of conclusions. b systematic, accurate. 2 used
in, engaged in, or relating to (esp. natural) science
(scientific discoveries; scientific terminology). 3 assisted by
expert knowledge. ЬЬscientifically adv. [F scientifique or LL
scientificus (as SCIENCE)]
scientism n. 1 a a method or doctrine regarded as characteristic of
scientists. b the use or practice of this. 2 often derog. an
excessive belief in or application of scientific method.
ЬЬscientistic adj.
scientist n. 1 a person with expert knowledge of a (usu. physical or
natural) science. 2 a person using scientific methods.
scientology
n. a religious system based on self-improvement and promotion
through grades of esp. self-knowledge. ЬЬscientologist n. [L
scientia knowledge + -LOGY]
sci-fi n. (often attrib.) colloq. science fiction. [abbr.: cf.
HI-FI]
scilicet adv. to wit; that is to say; namely (introducing a word to be
supplied or an explanation of an ambiguity). [ME f. L, = scire
licet one is permitted to know]
scilla n. any liliaceous plant of the genus Scilla, related to the
bluebell, usu. bearing small blue star-shaped or bell-shaped
flowers and having long glossy straplike leaves. [L f. Gk
skilla]
Scillonian
adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to the Scilly Isles off the
coast of Cornwall. --n. a native of the Scilly Isles. [Scilly,
perh. after Devonian]
scimitar n. an oriental curved sword usu. broadening towards the point.
[F cimeterre, It. scimitarra, etc., of unkn. orig.]
scintigram
n. an image of an internal part of the body, produced by
scintigraphy.
scintigraphy
n. the use of a radioisotope and a scintillation counter to get
an image or record of a bodily organ etc. [SCINTILLATION +
-GRAPHY]
scintilla n. 1 a trace. 2 a spark. [L]
scintillate
v.intr. 1 (esp. as scintillating adj.) talk cleverly or
wittily; be brilliant. 2 sparkle; twinkle; emit sparks. 3
Physics fluoresce momentarily when struck by a charged particle
etc. ЬЬscintillant adj. scintillatingly adv. [L scintillare
(as SCINTILLA)]
scintillation
n. 1 the process or state of scintillating. 2 the twinkling of
a star. 3 a flash produced in a material by an ionizing
particle etc. Ьscintillation counter a device for detecting and
recording scintillation.
scintiscan
n. an image or other record showing the distribution of
radioactive traces in parts of the body, used in the detection
and diagnosis of various diseases. [SCINTILLATION + SCAN]
sciolist n. a superficial pretender to knowledge. ЬЬsciolism n.
sciolistic adj. [LL sciolus smatterer f. L scire know]
scion n. 1 (US cion) a shoot of a plant etc., esp. one cut for
grafting or planting. 2 a descendant; a younger member of (esp.
a noble) family. [ME f. OF ciun, cion, sion shoot, twig, of
unkn. orig.]
scire facias
n. Law a writ to enforce or annul a judgement, patent, etc.
[L, = let (him) know]
scirocco var. of SIROCCO.
scirrhus n. (pl. scirrhi) a carcinoma which is hard to the touch.
ЬЬscirrhoid adj. scirrhosity n. scirrhous adj. [mod.L f. Gk
skir(r)os f. skiros hard]
scissel n. waste clippings etc. of metal produced during coin
manufacture. [F cisaille f. cisailler clip with shears]
scissile adj. able to be cut or divided. [L scissilis f. scindere
sciss- cut]
scission n. 1 the act or an instance of cutting; the state of being cut.
2 a division or split. [ME f. OF scission or LL scissio (as
SCISSILE)]
scissor v.tr. 1 (usu. foll. by off, up, into, etc.) cut with scissors.
2 (usu. foll. by out) clip out (a newspaper cutting etc.).
scissors n.pl. 1 (also pair of scissors sing.) an instrument for cutting
fabric, paper, hair, etc., having two pivoted blades with finger
and thumb holes in the handles, operating by closing on the
material to be cut. 2 (treated as sing.) a a method of
high-jumping with a forward and backward movement of the legs.
b a hold in wrestling in which the opponent's body or esp. head
is gripped between the legs. Ьscissor-bill = SKIMMER 4.
scissor-bird (or -tail) a fork-tailed flycatcher, Tyrannus
forficatus. scissors and paste a method of compiling a book,
article, etc., from extracts from others or without independent
research. ЬЬscissorwise adv. [ME sisoures f. OF cisoires f. LL
cisoria pl. of cisorium cutting instrument (as CHISEL): assoc.
with L scindere sciss- cut]
sciurine adj. 1 of or relating to the family Sciuridae, including
squirrels and chipmunks. 2 squirrel-like. ЬЬsciuroid adj. [L
sciurus f. Gk skiouros squirrel f. skia shadow + oura tail]
sclera n. the white of the eye; a white membrane coating the eyeball.
ЬЬscleral adj. scleritis n. sclerotomy n. (pl. -ies).
[mod.L f. fem. of Gk skleros hard]
sclerenchyma
n. the woody tissue found in a plant, formed from lignified
cells and usu. providing support. [mod.L f. Gk skleros hard +
egkhuma infusion, after parenchyma]
scleroid adj. Bot. & Zool. having a hard texture; hardened. [Gk
skleros hard]
scleroma n. (pl. scleromata) an abnormal patch of hardened skin or
mucous membrane. [mod.L f. Gk skleroma (as SCLEROSIS)]
sclerometer
n. an instrument for determining the hardness of materials.
[Gk skleros hard + -METER]
sclerophyll
n. any woody plant with leathery leaves retaining water.
ЬЬsclerophyllous adj. [Gk skleros hard + phullon leaf]
scleroprotein
n. Biochem. any insoluble structural protein. [Gk skleros
hard + PROTEIN]
sclerosed adj. affected by sclerosis.
sclerosis n. 1 an abnormal hardening of body tissue (see also
ARTERIOSCLEROSIS, ATHEROSCLEROSIS). 2 (in full multiple or
disseminated sclerosis) a chronic and progressive disease of the
nervous system resulting in symptoms including paralysis and
speech defects. 3 Bot. the hardening of a cell-wall with
lignified matter. [ME f. med.L f. Gk sklerosis f. skleroo
harden]
sclerotic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or having sclerosis. 2 of or relating
to the sclera. --n. = SCLERA. ЬЬsclerotitis n. [med.L
sclerotica (as SCLEROSIS)]
SCM abbr. (in the UK) 1 State Certified Midwife. 2 Student
Christian Movement.
scoff(1) v. & n. --v.intr. (usu. foll. by at) speak derisively, esp. of
serious subjects; mock; be scornful. --n. 1 mocking words; a
taunt. 2 an object of ridicule. ЬЬscoffer n. scoffingly adv.
[perh. f. Scand.: cf. early mod. Da. skuf, skof jest, mockery]
scoff(2) v. & n. colloq. --v.tr. & intr. eat greedily. --n. food; a
meal. [(n.) f. Afrik. schoff repr. Du. schoft quarter of a
day (hence, meal): (v.) orig. var. of dial. scaff, assoc. with
the noun]
scold v. & n. --v. 1 tr. rebuke (esp. a child, employee, or
inferior). 2 intr. find fault noisily; complain; rail. --n.
archaic a nagging or grumbling woman. ЬЬscolder n. scolding n.
[ME (earlier as noun), prob. f. ON sk ld SKALD]
scolex n. (pl. scoleces or scolices) the head of a larval or adult
tapeworm. [mod.L f. Gk skolex worm]
scoliosis n. an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. ЬЬscoliotic
adj. [mod.L f. Gk f. skolios bent]
scollop var. of SCALLOP.
scolopendrium
n. any of various ferns, esp. hart's tongue. [mod.L f. Gk
skolopendrion f. skolopendra millipede (because of the supposed
resemblance)]
scomber n. any marine fish of the family Scombridae, including
mackerels, tunas, and bonitos. ЬЬscombrid n. scombroid adj. &
n. [L f. Gk skombros]
sconce(1) n. 1 a flat candlestick with a handle. 2 a bracket candlestick
to hang on a wall. [ME f. OF esconse lantern or med.L sconsa f.
L absconsa fem. past part. of abscondere hide: see ABSCOND]
sconce(2) n. 1 a small fort or earthwork usu. defending a ford, pass,
etc. 2 archaic a shelter or screen. [Du. schans brushwood f.
MHG schanze]
scone n. a small sweet or savoury cake of flour, fat, and milk, baked
quickly in an oven. [orig. Sc., perh. f. MDu. schoon(broot),
MLG schon(brot) fine (bread)]
scoop n. & v. --n. 1 any of various objects resembling a spoon,
esp.: a a short-handled deep shovel used for transferring grain,
sugar, coal, coins, etc. b a large long-handled ladle used for
transferring liquids. c the excavating part of a
digging-machine etc. d Med. a long-handled spoonlike instrument
used for scraping parts of the body etc. e an instrument used
for serving portions of mashed potato, ice-cream, etc. 2 a
quantity taken up by a scoop. 3 a movement of or resembling
scooping. 4 a piece of news published by a newspaper etc. in
advance of its rivals. 5 a large profit made quickly or by
anticipating one's competitors. 6 Mus. a singer's exaggerated
portamento. 7 a scooped-out hollow etc. --v.tr. 1 (usu. foll.
by out) hollow out with or as if with a scoop. 2 (usu. foll. by
up) lift with or as if with a scoop. 3 forestall (a rival
newspaper, reporter, etc.) with a scoop. 4 secure (a large
profit etc.) esp. suddenly. Ьscoop-neck the rounded low-cut
neck of a garment. scoop-net a net used for sweeping a river
bottom, or for catching bait. ЬЬscooper n. scoopful n. (pl.
-fuls). [ME f. MDu., MLG schope bucket etc., rel. to SHAPE]
scoot v. & n. colloq. --v.intr. run or dart away, esp. quickly.
--n. the act or an instance of scooting. [19th-c. US (earlier
scout): orig. unkn.]
scooter n. & v. --n. 1 a child's toy consisting of a footboard mounted
on two wheels and a long steering-handle, propelled by resting
one foot on the footboard and pushing the other against the
ground. 2 (in full motor scooter) a light two-wheeled open
motor vehicle with a shieldlike protective front. 3 US a
sailboat able to travel on both water and ice. --v.intr. travel
or ride on a scooter. ЬЬscooterist n.
scopa n. (pl. scopae) a small brushlike tuft of hairs, esp. on the
leg of a bee for collecting pollen. [sing. of L scopae = twigs,
broom]
scope(1) n. 1 a the extent to which it is possible to range; the
opportunity for action etc. (this is beyond the scope of our
research). b the sweep or reach of mental activity,
observation, or outlook (an intellect limited in its scope). 2
Naut. the length of cable extended when a ship rides at anchor.
3 archaic a purpose, end, or intention. [It. scopo aim f. Gk
skopos target f. skeptomai look at]
scope(2) n. colloq. a telescope, microscope, or other device ending in
-scope. [abbr.]
-scope comb. form forming nouns denoting: 1 a device looked at or
through (kaleidoscope; telescope). 2 an instrument for
observing or showing (gyroscope; oscilloscope). ЬЬ-scopic comb.
form forming adjectives. [from or after mod.L -scopium f. Gk
skopeo look at]
scopolamine
n. = HYOSCINE. [Scopolia genus-name of the plants yielding it,
f. G. A. Scopoli, It. naturalist d. 1788 + AMINE]
scopula n. (pl. scopulae) any of various small brushlike structures,
esp. on the legs of spiders. [LL, dimin. of L scopa: see SCOPA]
-scopy comb. form indicating viewing or observation, usu. with an
instrument ending in -scope (microscopy).
scorbutic adj. & n. --adj. relating to, resembling, or affected with
scurvy. --n. a person affected with scurvy. ЬЬscorbutically
adv. [mod.L scorbuticus f. med.L scorbutus scurvy, perh. f. MLG
schorbuk f. schoren break + buk belly]
scorch v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a burn the surface of with flame or heat
so as to discolour, parch, injure, or hurt. b affect with the
sensation of burning. 2 intr. become discoloured etc. with
heat. 3 tr. (as scorching adj.) colloq. a (of the weather)
very hot. b (of criticism etc.) stringent; harsh. 4 intr.
colloq. (of a motorist etc.) go at excessive speed. --n. 1 a
mark made by scorching. 2 colloq. a spell of fast driving etc.
Ьscorched earth policy the burning of crops etc. and the
removing or destroying of anything that might be of use to an
enemy force occupying a country. ЬЬscorchingly adv. [ME, perh.
rel. to skorkle in the same sense]
scorcher n. 1 a person or thing that scorches. 2 colloq. a a very hot
day. b a fine specimen.
score n. & v. --n. 1 a the number of points, goals, runs, etc., made
by a player, side, etc., in some games. b the total number of
points etc. at the end of a game (the score was five-nil). c
the act of gaining esp. a goal (a superb score there!). 2 (pl.
same or scores) twenty or a set of twenty. 3 (in pl.) a great
many (scores of people arrived). 4 a a reason or motive
(rejected on the score of absurdity). b topic, subject (no
worries on that score). 5 Mus. a a usu. printed copy of a
composition showing all the vocal and instrumental parts
arranged one below the other. b the music composed for a film
or play, esp. for a musical. 6 colloq. a a piece of good
fortune. b the act or an instance of scoring off another
person. 7 colloq. the state of affairs; the present situation
(asked what the score was). 8 a notch, line, etc. cut or
scratched into a surface. 9 a an amount due for payment. b a
running account kept by marks against a customer's name. 10
Naut. a groove in a block or dead-eye to hold a rope. --v. 1
tr. a win or gain (a goal, run, points, etc., or success etc.)
(scored a century). b count for a score of (points in a game
etc.) (a bull's-eye scores most points). c allot a score to (a
competitor etc.). d make a record of (a point etc.). 2 intr.
a make a score in a game (failed to score). b keep the tally of
points, runs, etc. in a game. 3 tr. mark with notches,
incisions, lines, etc.; slash; furrow (scored his name on the
desk). 4 intr. secure an advantage by luck, cunning, etc. (that
is where he scores). 5 tr. Mus. a orchestrate (a piece of
music). b (usu. foll. by for) arrange for an instrument or
instruments. c write the music for (a film, musical, etc.). d
write out in a score. 6 tr. a (usu. foll. by up) mark (a total
owed etc.) in a score (see sense 9b of n.). b (usu. foll. by
against, to) enter (an item of debt to a customer). 7 intr.
sl. a obtain drugs illegally. b (of a man) make a sexual
conquest. 8 tr. (usu. foll. by against, to) mentally record (an
offence etc.). 9 tr. US criticize (a person) severely. Ьkeep
score (or the score) register the score as it is made. know the
score colloq. be aware of the essential facts. on the score of
for the reason that; because of. on that score so far as that
is concerned. score-book (or -card or -sheet) a book etc.
prepared for entering esp. cricket scores in. score draw a draw
in football in which goals are scored. score off (or score
points off) colloq. humiliate, esp. verbally in repartee etc.
score out draw a line through (words etc.). score under
underline. ЬЬscorer n. scoring n. Mus. [(n.) f. OE: sense 5
f. the line or bar drawn through all staves: (v.) partly f. ON
skora f. ON skor notch, tally, twenty, f. Gmc: see SHEAR]
scoreboard
n. a large board for publicly displaying the score in a game or
match.
scoria n. (pl. scoriae) 1 cellular lava, or fragments of it. 2 the
slag or dross of metals. ЬЬscoriaceous adj. [L f. Gk skoria
refuse f. skor dung]
scorify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 reduce to dross. 2 assay (precious metal)
by treating a portion of its ore fused with lead and borax.
ЬЬscorification n. scorifier n.
scorn n. & v. --n. 1 disdain, contempt, derision. 2 an object of
contempt etc. (the scorn of all onlookers). --v.tr. 1 hold in
contempt or disdain. 2 (often foll. by to + infin.) abstain
from or refuse to do as unworthy (scorns lying; scorns to lie).
Ьthink scorn of despise. ЬЬscorner n. [ME f. OF esc(h)arn(ir)
ult. f. Gmc: cf. OS skern MOCKERY]
scornful adj. (often foll. by of) full of scorn; contemptuous.
ЬЬscornfully adv. scornfulness n.
scorper var. of SCALPER 2.
Scorpio n. (pl. -os) 1 a constellation, traditionally regarded as
contained in the figure of a scorpion. 2 a the eighth sign of
the zodiac (the Scorpion). b a person born when the sun is in
this sign. ЬЬScorpian adj. & n. [ME f. L (as SCORPION)]
scorpioid adj. & n. --adj. 1 Zool. of, relating to, or resembling a
scorpion; of the scorpion order. 2 Bot. (of an inflorescence)
curled up at the end, and uncurling as the flowers develop.
--n. this type of inflorescence. [Gk skorpioeides (as SCORPIO)]
scorpion n. 1 an arachnid of the order Scorpionida, with lobster-like
pincers and a jointed tail that can be bent over to inflict a
poisoned sting on prey held in its pincers. 2 (in full false
scorpion) a similar arachnid of the order Pseudoscorpionida,
smaller and without a tail. 3 (the Scorpion) the zodiacal sign
or constellation Scorpio. 4 Bibl. a whip with metal points (1
Kings 12:11). Ьscorpion fish any of various marine fish of the
family Scorpaenidae, with venomous spines on the head and gills.
scorpion fly any insect of the order Mecoptera, esp. of the
family Panorpidae, the males of which have a swollen abdomen
curved upwards like a scorpion's sting. scorpion grass =
forget-me-not. [ME f. OF f. L scorpio -onis f. scorpius f. Gk
skorpios]
scorzonera
n. 1 a composite plant, Scorzonera hispanica, with long
tapering purple-brown roots. 2 the root used as a vegetable.
[It. f. scorzone venomous snake ult f. med.L curtio]
Scot n. 1 a a native of Scotland. b a person of Scottish descent.
2 hist. a member of a Gaelic people that migrated from Ireland
to Scotland around the 6th c. [OE Scottas (pl.) f. LL Scottus]
scot n. hist. a payment corresponding to a modern tax, rate, etc.
Ьpay scot and lot share the financial burdens of a borough etc.
(and so be allowed to vote). scot-free unharmed; unpunished;
safe. [ME f. ON skot & f. OF escot, of Gmc orig.: cf. SHOT(1)]
Scotch adj. & n. --adj. var. of SCOTTISH or SCOTS. --n. 1 var. of
SCOTTISH or SCOTS. 2 Scotch whisky. ЬScotch broth a soup made
from beef or mutton with pearl barley etc. Scotch cap = BONNET
n. 1b. Scotch catch Mus. a short note on the beat followed by
a long one. Scotch egg a hard-boiled egg enclosed in sausage
meat and fried. Scotch fir (or pine) a pine tree, Pinus
sylvestris, native to Europe and Asia. Scotch kale a variety of
kale with purplish leaves. Scotch mist 1 a thick drizzly mist
common in the Highlands. 2 a retort made to a person implying
that he or she has imagined or failed to understand something.
Scotch pebble agate, jasper, cairngorm, etc., found in Scotland.
Scotch pine = Scotch fir. Scotch snap = Scotch catch. Scotch
terrier 1 a small terrier of a rough-haired short-legged breed.
2 this breed. Scotch whisky whisky distilled in Scotland, esp.
from malted barley. ° Scots or Scottish is generally preferred
in Scotland, except in the special compounds given above.
[contr. of SCOTTISH]
scotch(1) v. & n. --v.tr. 1 put an end to; frustrate (injury scotched
his attempt). 2 archaic a wound without killing; slightly
disable. b make incisions in; score. --n. 1 archaic a slash.
2 a line on the ground for hopscotch. [ME: orig. unkn.]
scotch(2) n. & v. --n. a wedge or block placed against a wheel etc. to
prevent its slipping. --v.tr. hold back (a wheel, barrel, etc.)
with a scotch. [17th c.: perh. = scatch stilt f. OF escache]
Scotchman n. (pl. -men; fem. Scotchwoman, pl. -women) = SCOTSMAN. °
Scotsman etc. are generally preferred in Scotland.
scoter n. (pl. same or scoters) a large marine duck of the genus
Melanitta. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
scotia n. a concave moulding, esp. at the base of a column. [L f. Gk
skotia f. skotos darkness, with ref. to the shadow produced]
Scoticism var. of SCOTTICISM.
Scoticize var. of SCOTTICIZE.
Scotland Yard
n. 1 the headquarters of the London Metropolitan Police. 2 its
Criminal Investigation Department. [Great and New Scotland
Yard, streets where it was successively situated until 1967]
scotoma n. (pl. scotomata) a partial loss of vision or blind spot in
an otherwise normal visual field. [LL f. Gk skotoma f. skotoo
darken f. skotos darkness]
Scots adj. & n. esp. Sc. --adj. 1 = SCOTTISH adj. 2 in the
dialect, accent, etc., of (esp. Lowlands) Scotland. --n. 1 =
SCOTTISH n. 2 the form of English spoken in (esp. Lowlands)
Scotland. [ME orig. Scottis, north. var. of SCOTTISH]
Scotsman n. (pl. -men; fem. Scotswoman, pl. -women) 1 a native of
Scotland. 2 a person of Scottish descent.
Scotticism
n. (also Scoticism) a Scottish phrase, word, or idiom. [LL
Scot(t)icus]
Scotticize
v. (also Scoticize, -ise) 1 tr. imbue with or model on Scottish
ways etc. 2 intr. imitate the Scottish in idiom or habits.
Scottie n. colloq. 1 (also Scottie dog) a Scotch terrier. 2 a Scot.
Scottish adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to Scotland or its inhabitants.
--n. (prec. by the; treated as pl.) the people of Scotland (see
also SCOTS). ЬЬScottishness n.
scoundrel n. an unscrupulous villain; a rogue. ЬЬscoundreldom n.
scoundrelism n. scoundrelly adj. [16th c.: orig. unkn.]
scour(1) v. & n. --v.tr. 1 a cleanse or brighten by rubbing, esp. with
soap, chemicals, sand, etc. b (usu. foll. by away, off, etc.)
clear (rust, stains, reputation, etc.) by rubbing, hard work,
etc. (scoured the slur from his name). 2 (of water, or a person
with water) clear out (a pipe, channel, etc.) by flushing
through. 3 hist. purge (the bowels) drastically. --n. 1 the
act or an instance of scouring; the state of being scoured, esp.
by a swift water current (the scour of the tide). 2 diarrhoea
in cattle. 3 a substance used for scouring. Ьscouring-rush any
of various horsetail plants with a rough siliceous coating used
for polishing wood etc. ЬЬscourer n. [ME f. MDu., MLG schuren
f. F escurer f. LL excurare clean (off) (as EX-(1), CURE)]
scour(2) v. 1 tr. hasten over (an area etc.) searching thoroughly
(scoured the streets for him; scoured the pages of the
newspaper). 2 intr. range hastily esp. in search or pursuit.
[ME: orig. unkn.]
scourge n. & v. --n. 1 a whip used for punishment, esp. of people. 2
a person or thing seen as punishing, esp. on a large scale (the
scourge of famine; Genghis Khan, the scourge of Asia). --v.tr.
1 whip. 2 punish; afflict; oppress. ЬЬscourger n. [ME f. OF
escorge (n.), escorgier (v.) (ult. as EX-(1), L corrigia thong,
whip)]
Scouse n. & adj. colloq. --n. 1 the dialect of Liverpool. 2 (also
Scouser) a native of Liverpool. 3 (scouse) = LOBSCOUSE. --adj.
of or relating to Liverpool. [abbr. of LOBSCOUSE]
scout(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a person, esp. a soldier, sent out to get
information about the enemy's position, strength, etc. 2 the
act of seeking (esp. military) information (on the scout). 3 =
talent-scout. 4 (Scout) a member of the Scout Association, a
boys' association intended to develop character esp. by open-air
activities. 5 a college servant, esp. at Oxford University. 6
colloq. a person; a fellow. 7 a ship or aircraft designed for
reconnoitring, esp. a small fast aircraft. --v. 1 intr. act as
a scout. 2 intr. (foll. by about, around) make a search. 3 tr.
(often foll. by out) colloq. explore to get information about
(territory etc.). ЬQueen's (or King's) Scout a Scout who has
reached the highest standard of proficiency. ЬЬscouter n.
scouting n. [ME f. OF escouter listen, earlier ascolter ult. f.
L auscultare]
scout(2) v.tr. reject (an idea etc.) with scorn. [Scand.: cf. ON skЈta,
skЈti taunt]
Scouter n. an adult member of the Scout Association.
Scoutmaster
n. a person in charge of a group of Scouts.
scow n. esp. US a flat-bottomed boat used as a lighter etc. [Du.
schouw ferry-boat]
scowl n. & v. --n. a severe frown producing a sullen, bad-tempered,
or threatening look on a person's face. --v.intr. make a scowl.
ЬЬscowler n. [ME, prob. f. Scand.: cf. Da. skule look down or
sidelong]
SCPS abbr. (in the UK) Society of Civil and Public Servants.
SCR abbr. Brit. Senior Common (or Combination) Room.
scr. abbr. scruple(s) (of weight).
scrabble v. & n. --v.intr. (often foll. by about, at) scratch or grope
to find or collect or hold on to something. --n. 1 an act of
scrabbling. 2 (Scrabble) propr. a game in which players build
up words from letter-blocks on a board. [MDu. schrabbelen
frequent. of schrabben SCRAPE]
scrag n. & v. --n. 1 (also scrag-end) the inferior end of a neck of
mutton. 2 a skinny person or animal. 3 colloq. a person's
neck. --v.tr. (scragged, scragging) sl. 1 strangle, hang. 2
seize roughly by the neck. 3 handle roughly; beat up. [perh.
alt. f. dial. crag neck, rel. to MDu. craghe, MLG krage]
scraggly adj. sparse and irregular.
scraggy adj. (scraggier, scraggiest) thin and bony. ЬЬscraggily adv.
scragginess n.
scram v.intr. (scrammed, scramming) (esp. in imper.) colloq. go
away. [20th c.: perh. f. SCRAMBLE]
scramble v. & n. --v. 1 intr. make one's way over rough ground, rocks,
etc., by clambering, crawling, etc. 2 intr. (foll. by for, at)
struggle with competitors (for a thing or share of it). 3 intr.
move with difficulty, hastily, or anxiously. 4 tr. a mix
together indiscriminately. b jumble or muddle. 5 tr. cook
(eggs) by heating them when broken and well mixed with butter,
milk, etc. 6 tr. change the speech frequency of (a broadcast
transmission or telephone conversation) so as to make it
unintelligible without a corresponding decoding device. 7 intr.
move hastily. 8 tr. colloq. execute (an action etc.) awkwardly
and inefficiently. 9 intr. (of fighter aircraft or their
pilots) take off quickly in an emergency or for action. --n. 1
an act of scrambling. 2 a difficult climb or walk. 3 (foll. by
for) an eager struggle or competition. 4 Brit. a motor-cycle
race over rough ground. 5 an emergency take-off by fighter
aircraft. Ьscrambled egg colloq. gold braid on a military
officer's cap. [16th c. (imit.): cf. dial. synonyms scamble,
cramble]
scrambler n. a device for scrambling telephone conversations.
scran n. sl. 1 food, eatables. 2 remains of food. Ьbad scran Ir.
bad luck. [18th c.: orig. unkn.]
scrap(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a small detached piece; a fragment or remnant.
2 rubbish or waste material. 3 an extract or cutting from
something written or printed. 4 discarded metal for
reprocessing (often attrib.: scrap metal). 5 (with neg.) the
smallest piece or amount (not a scrap of food left). 6 (in pl.)
a odds and ends. b bits of uneaten food. 7 (in sing or pl.) a
residuum of melted fat or of fish with the oil expressed.
--v.tr. (scrapped, scrapping) discard as useless. Ьscrap heap
1 a pile of scrap materials. 2 a state of uselessness. scrap
merchant a dealer in scrap. [ME f. ON skrap, rel. to skrapa
SCRAPE]
scrap(2) n. & v. colloq. --n. a fight or rough quarrel, esp. a
spontaneous one. --v.tr. (scrapped, scrapping) (often foll. by
with) have a scrap. ЬЬscrapper n. [perh. f. SCRAPE]
scrapbook n. a book of blank pages for sticking cuttings, drawings, etc.,
in.
scrape v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a move a hard or sharp edge across (a
surface), esp. to make something smooth. b apply (a hard or
sharp edge) in this way. 2 tr. (foll. by away, off, etc.)
remove (a stain, projection, etc.) by scraping. 3 tr. a rub (a
surface) harshly against another. b scratch or damage by
scraping. 4 tr. make (a hollow) by scraping. 5 a tr. draw or
move with a sound of, or resembling, scraping. b intr. emit or
produce such a sound. c tr. produce such a sound from. 6 intr.
(often foll. by along, by, through, etc.) move or pass along
while almost touching close or surrounding features, obstacles,
etc. (the car scraped through the narrow lane). 7 tr. just
manage to achieve (a living, an examination pass, etc.). 8
intr. (often foll. by by, through) a barely manage. b pass an
examination etc. with difficulty. 9 tr. (foll. by together, up)
contrive to bring or provide; amass with difficulty. 10 intr.
be economical. 11 intr. draw back a foot in making a clumsy
bow. 12 tr. clear (a ship's bottom) of barnacles etc. 13 tr.
completely clear (a plate) of food. 14 tr. (foll. by back) draw
(the hair) tightly back off the forehead. --n. 1 the act or
sound of scraping. 2 a scraped place (on the skin etc.). 3 a
thinly applied layer of butter etc. on bread. 4 the scraping of
a foot in bowing. 5 colloq. an awkward predicament, esp.
resulting from an escapade. Ьscrape acquaintance with contrive
to get to know (a person). scrape the barrel colloq. be
reduced to one's last resources. [ME f. ON skrapa or MDu.
schrapen]
scraper n. a device used for scraping, esp. for removing dirt etc. from
a surface.
scraperboard
n. Brit. cardboard or board with a blackened surface which can
be scraped off for making white-line drawings.
scrapie n. a viral disease of sheep involving the central nervous
system and characterized by lack of coordination causing
affected animals to rub against trees etc. for support.
scraping n. 1 in senses of SCRAPE v. & n. 2 (esp. in pl.) a fragment
produced by this.
scrappy adj. (scrappier, scrappiest) 1 consisting of scraps. 2
incomplete; carelessly arranged or put together. ЬЬscrappily
adv. scrappiness n.
scrapyard n. a place where (esp. metal) scrap is collected.
scratch v., n., & adj. --v. 1 tr. score or mark the surface of with a
sharp or pointed object. 2 tr. a make a long narrow
superficial wound in (the skin). b cause (a person or part of
the body) to be scratched (scratched himself on the table). 3
tr. (also absol.) scrape without marking, esp. with the hand to
relieve itching (stood there scratching). 4 tr. make or form by
scratching. 5 tr. scribble; write hurriedly or awkwardly
(scratched a quick reply; scratched a large A). 6 tr. (foll. by
together, up, etc.) obtain (a thing) by scratching or with
difficulty. 7 tr. (foll. by out, off, through) cancel or strike
(out) with a pencil etc. 8 tr. (also absol.) withdraw (a
competitor, candidate, etc.) from a race or competition. 9
intr. (often foll. by about, around, etc.) a scratch the ground
etc. in search. b look around haphazardly (they were scratching
about for evidence). --n. 1 a mark or wound made by
scratching. 2 a sound of scratching. 3 a spell of scratching
oneself. 4 colloq. a superficial wound. 5 a line from which
competitors in a race (esp. those not receiving a handicap)
start. 6 (in pl.) a disease of horses in which the pastern
appears scratched. 7 sl. money. --attrib.adj. 1 collected by
chance. 2 collected or made from whatever is available;
heterogeneous (a scratch crew). 3 with no handicap given (a
scratch race). Ьfrom scratch 1 from the beginning. 2 without
help or advantage. scratch along make a living etc. with
difficulty. scratch one's head be perplexed. scratch my back
and I will scratch yours 1 do me a favour and I will return it.
2 used in reference to mutual aid or flattery. scratch pad 1
esp. US a pad of paper for scribbling. 2 Computing a small
fast memory for the temporary storage of data. scratch the
surface deal with a matter only superficially. up to scratch up
to the required standard. ЬЬscratcher n. [ME, prob. f.
synonymous ME scrat & cratch, both of uncert. orig.: cf. MLG
kratsen, OHG krazzon]
scratchy adj. (scratchier, scratchiest) 1 tending to make scratches or a
scratching noise. 2 (esp. of a garment) tending to cause
itchiness. 3 (of a drawing etc.) done in scratches or
carelessly. ЬЬscratchily adv. scratchiness n.
scrawl v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. write in a hurried untidy way. 2
tr. (foll. by out) cross out by scrawling over. --n. 1 a piece
of hurried writing. 2 a scrawled note. ЬЬscrawly adj. [perh.
f. obs. scrawl sprawl, alt. of CRAWL]
scrawny adj. (scrawnier, scrawniest) lean, scraggy. ЬЬscrawniness n.
[var. of dial. scranny: cf. archaic scrannel (of sound) weak,
feeble]
scream n. & v. --n. 1 a loud high-pitched piercing cry expressing
fear, pain, extreme fright, etc. 2 the act of emitting a
scream. 3 colloq. an irresistibly funny occurrence or person.
--v. 1 intr. emit a scream. 2 tr. speak or sing (words etc.)
in a screaming tone. 3 intr. make or move with a shrill sound
like a scream. 4 intr. laugh uncontrollably. 5 intr. be
blatantly obvious or conspicuous. 6 intr. colloq. turn
informer. [OE or MDu.]
screamer n. 1 a person or thing that screams. 2 any S. American
goose-like bird of the family Anhimidae, frequenting marshland
and having a characteristic shrill cry. 3 colloq. a tale that
raises screams of laughter. 4 US colloq. a sensational
headline.
scree n. (in sing. or pl.) 1 small loose stones. 2 a mountain slope
covered with these. [prob. back-form. f. screes (pl.) ult. f.
ON skritha landslip, rel. to skrЎtha glide]
screech n. & v. --n. a harsh high-pitched scream. --v.tr. & intr.
utter with or make a screech. Ьscreech-owl any owl that
screeches instead of hooting, esp. a barn-owl or a small
American owl, Otus asio. ЬЬscreecher n. screechy adj.
(screechier, screechiest). [16th-c. var. of ME scritch (imit.)]
screed n. 1 a long usu. tiresome piece of writing or speech. 2 a a
strip of plaster or other material placed on a surface as a
guide to thickness. b a levelled layer of material (e.g.
cement) applied to a floor or other surface. [ME, prob. var. of
SHRED]
screen n. & v. --n. 1 a fixed or movable upright partition for
separating, concealing, or sheltering from draughts or excessive
heat or light. 2 a thing used as a shelter, esp. from
observation. 3 a a measure adopted for concealment. b the
protection afforded by this (under the screen of night). 4 a a
blank usu. white or silver surface on which a photographic image
is projected. b (prec. by the) the cinema industry. 5 the
surface of a cathode-ray tube or similar electronic device, esp.
of a television, VDU, etc., on which images appear. 6 =
sight-screen. 7 = WINDSCREEN. 8 a frame with fine wire netting
to keep out flies, mosquitoes, etc. 9 Physics a body
intercepting light, heat, electric or magnetic induction, etc.,
in a physical apparatus. 10 Photog. a piece of ground glass in
a camera for focusing. 11 a large sieve or riddle, esp. for
sorting grain, coal, etc., into sizes. 12 a system of checking
for the presence or absence of a disease, ability, attribute,
etc. 13 Printing a transparent finely-ruled plate or film used
in half-tone reproduction. 14 Mil. a body of troops, ships,
etc., detached to warn of the presence of an enemy force.
--v.tr. 1 (often foll. by from) a afford shelter to; hide
partly or completely. b protect from detection, censure, etc.
2 (foll. by off) shut off or hide behind a screen. 3 a show (a
film etc.) on a screen. b broadcast (a television programme).
4 prevent from causing, or protect from, electrical
interference. 5 a test (a person or group) for the presence or
absence of a disease. b check on (a person) for the presence or
absence of a quality, esp. reliability or loyalty. 6 pass
(grain, coal, etc.) through a screen. Ьscreen printing a
process like stencilling with ink forced through a prepared
sheet of fine material (orig. silk). screen test an audition
for a part in a cinema film. ЬЬscreenable adj. screener n.
[ME f. ONF escren, escran: cf. OHG skrank barrier]
screenings
n.pl. refuse separated by sifting.
screenplay
n. the script of a film, with acting instructions, scene
directions, etc.
screenwriter
n. a person who writes a screenplay.
screw n. & v. --n. 1 a thin cylinder or cone with a spiral ridge or
thread running round the outside (male screw) or the inside
(female screw). 2 (in full wood-screw) a metal male screw with
a slotted head and a sharp point for fastening things, esp. in
carpentry, by being rotated to form a thread in wood etc. 3 (in
full screw-bolt) a metal male screw with a blunt end on which a
nut is threaded to bolt things together. 4 a wooden or metal
straight screw used to exert pressure. 5 (in sing. or pl.) an
instrument of torture acting in this way. 6 (in full
screw-propeller) a form of propeller with twisted blades acting
like a screw on the water or air. 7 one turn of a screw. 8
(foll. by of) Brit. a small twisted-up paper (of tobacco etc.).
9 Brit. (in billiards etc.) an oblique curling motion of the
ball. 10 sl. a prison warder. 11 Brit. sl. an amount of
salary or wages. 12 coarse sl. a an act of sexual intercourse.
b a partner in this. °Usually considered a taboo use. 13 sl. a
mean or miserly person. 14 sl. a worn-out horse. --v. 1 tr.
fasten or tighten with a screw or screws. 2 tr. turn (a screw).
3 intr. twist or turn round like a screw. 4 intr. (of a ball
etc.) swerve. 5 tr. a put psychological etc. pressure on to
achieve an end. b oppress. 6 tr. (foll. by out of) extort
(consent, money, etc.) from (a person). 7 tr. (also absol.)
coarse sl. have sexual intercourse with. °Usually considered a
taboo use. 8 intr. (of a rolling ball, or of a person etc.)
take a curling course; swerve. 9 intr. (often foll. by up) make
tenser or more efficient. Ьhave one's head screwed on the right
way colloq. have common sense. have a screw loose colloq. be
slightly crazy. put the screws on colloq. exert pressure, esp.
to extort or intimidate. screw cap = screw top. screw-coupling
a female screw with threads at both ends for joining lengths of
pipes or rods. screw eye a screw with a loop for passing cord
etc. through instead of a slotted head. screw gear an endless
screw with a cog-wheel or pinion. screw hook a hook to hang
things on, with a screw point for fastening it. screw-jack a
vehicle jack (see JACK(1)) worked by a screw device. screw pine
any plant of the genus Pandanus, with its leaves arranged
spirally and resembling those of a pineapple. screw-plate a
steel plate with threaded holes for making male screws.
screw-tap a tool for making female screws. screw top (also
(with hyphen) attrib.) a cap or lid that can be screwed on to a
bottle, jar, etc. screw up 1 contract or contort (one's face
etc.). 2 contract and crush into a tight mass (a piece of paper
etc.). 3 summon up (one's courage etc.). 4 sl. a bungle or
mismanage. b spoil or ruin (an event, opportunity, etc.).
screw-up n. sl. a bungle, muddle, or mess. screw valve a
stopcock opened and shut by a screw. ЬЬscrewable adj. screwer
n. [ME f. OF escroue female screw, nut, f. L scrofa sow]
screwball n. & adj. US sl. --n. a crazy or eccentric person. --adj.
crazy.
screwdriver
n. a tool with a shaped tip to fit into the head of a screw to
turn it.
screwed adj. 1 twisted. 2 sl. a ruined; rendered ineffective. b
drunk.
screwy adj. (screwier, screwiest) sl. 1 crazy or eccentric. 2
absurd. ЬЬscrewiness n.
scribble(1)
v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. write carelessly or hurriedly. 2
intr. often derog. be an author or writer. 3 intr. & tr. draw
carelessly or meaninglessly. --n. 1 a scrawl. 2 a hasty note
etc. 3 careless handwriting. ЬЬscribbler n. scribbly adj.
[ME f. med.L scribillare dimin. of L scribere write]
scribble(2)
v.tr. card (wool, cotton, etc.) coarsely. [prob. f. LG: cf. G
schrubbeln (in the same sense), frequent. f. LG schrubben: see
SCRUB(1)]
scribe n. & v. --n. 1 a person who writes out documents, esp. an
ancient or medieval copyist of manuscripts. 2 Bibl. an ancient
Jewish record-keeper or professional theologian and jurist. 3
(in full scribe-awl) a pointed instrument for making marks on
wood, bricks, etc., to guide a saw, or in sign-writing. 4 US
colloq. a writer, esp. a journalist. --v.tr. mark (wood etc.)
with a scribe (see sense 3 of n.). ЬЬscribal adj. scriber n.
[(n.) ME f. L scriba f. scribere write: (v.) perh. f.
DESCRIBE]
scrim n. open-weave fabric for lining or upholstery etc. [18th c.:
orig. unkn.]
scrimmage n. & v. --n. 1 a rough or confused struggle; a brawl. 2 Amer.
Football a sequence of play beginning with the placing of the
ball on the ground with its longest axis at right angles to the
goal-line. --v. 1 intr. engage in a scrimmage. 2 tr. Amer.
Football put (the ball) into a scrimmage. ЬЬscrimmager n.
[var. of SKIRMISH]
scrimp v. 1 intr. be sparing or parsimonious. 2 tr. use sparingly.
ЬЬscrimpy adj. [18th c., orig. Sc.: perh. rel. to SHRIMP]
scrimshank
v.intr. Brit. sl. esp. Mil. shirk duty. ЬЬscrimshanker n.
[19th c.: orig. unkn.]
scrimshaw v. & n. --v.tr. (also absol.) adorn (shells, ivory, etc.) with
carved or coloured designs (as sailors' pastime at sea). --n.
work or a piece of work of this kind. [19th c.: perh. f. a
surname]
scrip n. 1 a provisional certificate of money subscribed to a bank or
company etc. entitling the holder to a formal certificate and
dividends. 2 (collect.) such certificates. 3 an extra share or
shares instead of a dividend. [abbr. of subscription receipt]
script n. & v. --n. 1 handwriting as distinct from print; written
characters. 2 type imitating handwriting. 3 an alphabet or
system of writing (the Russian script). 4 the text of a play,
film, or broadcast. 5 an examinee's set of written answers. 6
Law an original document as distinct from a copy. --v.tr. write
a script for (a film etc.). [ME, = thing written, f. OF
escri(p)t f. L scriptum, neut. past part. of scribere write]
scriptorium
n. (pl. scriptoria or scriptoriums) a room set apart for
writing, esp. in a monastery. ЬЬscriptorial adj. [med.L (as
SCRIPT)]
scriptural
adj. 1 of or relating to a scripture, esp. the Bible. 2 having
the authority of a scripture. ЬЬscripturally adv. [LL
scripturalis f. L scriptura: see SCRIPTURE]
scripture n. 1 sacred writings. 2 (Scripture or the Scriptures) a the
Bible as a collection of sacred writings in Christianity. b the
sacred writings of any other religion. [ME f. L scriptura (as
SCRIPT)]
scriptwriter
n. a person who writes a script for a film, broadcast, etc.
ЬЬscriptwriting n.
scrivener n. hist. 1 a copyist or drafter of documents. 2 a notary. 3
a broker. 4 a moneylender. [ME f. obs. scrivein f. OF
escrivein ult. f. L (as SCRIBE)]
scrod n. US a young cod or haddock, esp. as food. [19th c.: perh.
rel. to SHRED]
scrofula n. archaic a disease with glandular swellings, prob. a form of
tuberculosis. Also called king's evil. ЬЬscrofulous adj. [ME
f. med.L (sing.) f. LL scrofulae (pl.) scrofulous swelling,
dimin. of L scrofa a sow]
scroll n. & v. --n. 1 a roll of parchment or paper esp. with writing
on it. 2 a book in the ancient roll form. 3 an ornamental
design or carving imitating a roll of parchment. --v. 1 tr.
(often foll. by down, up) move (a display on a VDU screen) in
order to view new material. 2 tr. inscribe in or like a scroll.
3 intr. curl up like paper. Ьscroll saw a saw for cutting along
curved lines in ornamental work. [ME scrowle alt. f. rowle
ROLL, perh. after scrow (in the same sense), formed as ESCROW]
scrolled adj. having a scroll ornament.
scrollwork
decoration of spiral lines, esp. as cut by a scroll saw.
Scrooge n. a mean or miserly person. [a character in Dickens's
Christmas Carol]
scrotum n. (pl. scrota or scrotums) a pouch of skin containing the
testicles. ЬЬscrotal adj. scrotitis n. [L]
scrounge v. & n. colloq. --v. 1 tr. (also absol.) obtain (things)
illicitly or by cadging. 2 intr. search about to find something
at no cost. --n. an act of scrounging. Ьon the scrounge
engaged in scrounging. ЬЬscrounger n. [var. of dial. scrunge
steal]
scrub(1) v. & n. --v. (scrubbed, scrubbing) 1 tr. rub hard so as to
clean, esp. with a hard brush. 2 intr. use a brush in this way.
3 intr. (often foll. by up) (of a surgeon etc.) thoroughly clean
the hands and arms by scrubbing, before operating. 4 tr.
colloq. scrap or cancel (a plan, order, etc.). 5 tr. use water
to remove impurities from (gas etc.). --n. the act or an
instance of scrubbing; the process of being scrubbed.
Ьscrubbing-brush (US scrub-brush) a hard brush for scrubbing
floors. scrub round colloq. circumvent, avoid. [ME prob. f.
MLG, MDu. schrobben, schrubben]
scrub(2) n. 1 a vegetation consisting mainly of brushwood or stunted
forest growth. b an area of land covered with this. 2 (of
livestock) of inferior breed or physique (often attrib.: scrub
horse). 3 a small or dwarf variety (often attrib.: scrub pine).
4 US Sport colloq. a team or player not of the first class.
Ьscrub turkey a megapode. scrub typhus a rickettsial disease of
the W. Pacific transmitted by mites. ЬЬscrubby adj. [ME, var.
of SHRUB(1)]
scrubber n. 1 an apparatus using water or a solution for purifying gases
etc. 2 sl. derog. a sexually promiscuous woman.
scruff(1) n. the back of the neck as used to grasp and lift or drag an
animal or person by (esp. scruff of the neck). [alt. of scuff,
perh. f. ON skoft hair]
scruff(2) n. colloq. an untidy or scruffy person. [orig. = SCURF, later
'worthless thing', or back-form. f. SCRUFFY]
scruffy adj. (scruffier, scruffiest) colloq. shabby, slovenly, untidy.
ЬЬscruffily adv. scruffiness n. [scruff var. of SCURF + -Y(1)]
scrum n. 1 Rugby Football an arrangement of the forwards of each team
in two opposing groups, each with arms interlocked and heads
down, with the ball thrown in between them to restart play. 2
colloq. a milling crowd. Ьscrum-half a half-back who puts the
ball into the scrum. [abbr. of SCRUMMAGE]
scrummage n. Rugby Football = SCRUM 1. [as SCRIMMAGE]
scrump v.tr. Brit. colloq. steal (fruit) from an orchard or garden.
[cf. SCRUMPY]
scrumple v.tr. crumple, wrinkle. [var. of CRUMPLE]
scrumpy n. Brit. colloq. rough cider, esp. as made in the West
Country of England. [dial. scrump small apple]
scrunch v. & n. --v.tr. & intr. 1 (usu. foll. by up) make or become
crushed or crumpled. 2 make or cause to make a crunching sound.
--n. the act or an instance of scrunching. [var. of CRUNCH]
scruple n. & v. --n. 1 (in sing. or pl.) a regard to the morality or
propriety of an action. b a feeling of doubt or hesitation
caused by this. 2 Brit. hist. an apothecaries' weight of 20
grains. 3 archaic a very small quantity. --v.intr. 1 (foll.
by to + infin.; usu. with neg.) be reluctant because of scruples
(did not scruple to stop their allowance). 2 feel or be
influenced by scruples. [F scrupule or L scrupulus f. scrupus
rough pebble, anxiety]
scrupulous
adj. 1 conscientious or thorough even in small matters. 2
careful to avoid doing wrong. 3 punctilious; over-attentive to
details. ЬЬscrupulosity n. scrupulously adv. scrupulousness
n. [ME f. F scrupuleux or L scrupulosus (as SCRUPLE)]
scrutineer
n. a person who scrutinizes or examines something, esp. the
conduct and result of a ballot.
scrutinize
v.tr. (also -ise) look closely at; examine with close scrutiny.
ЬЬscrutinizer n.
scrutiny n. (pl. -ies) 1 a critical gaze. 2 a close investigation or
examination of details. 3 an official examination of
ballot-papers to check their validity or accuracy of counting.
[ME f. L scrutinium f. scrutari search f. scruta rubbish:
orig. of rag-collectors]
scry v.intr. (-ies, -ied) divine by crystal-gazing. ЬЬscryer n.
[shortening f. DESCRY]
scuba n. (pl. scubas) an aqualung. [acronym f. self- contained
underwater breathing apparatus]
scuba-diving
n. swimming underwater using a scuba, esp. as a sport.
ЬЬscuba-dive v.intr. scuba-diver n.
scud v. & n. --v.intr. (scudded, scudding) 1 fly or run straight,
fast, and lightly; skim along. 2 Naut. run before the wind.
--n. 1 a spell of scudding. 2 a scudding motion. 3 vapoury
driving clouds. 4 a driving shower; a gust. 5 wind-blown
spray. [perh. alt. of SCUT, as if to race like a hare]
scuff v. & n. --v. 1 tr. graze or brush against. 2 tr. mark or wear
down (shoes) in this way. 3 intr. walk with dragging feet;
shuffle. --n. a mark of scuffing. [imit.]
scuffle n. & v. --n. a confused struggle or disorderly fight at close
quarters. --v.intr. engage in a scuffle. [prob. f. Scand.: cf.
Sw. skuffa to push, rel. to SHOVE]
sculduggery
var. of SKULDUGGERY.
scull n. & v. --n. 1 either of a pair of small oars used by a single
rower. 2 an oar placed over the stern of a boat to propel it,
usu. by a twisting motion. 3 (in pl.) a race between boats
with single pairs of oars. --v.tr. propel (a boat) with sculls.
[ME: orig. unkn.]
sculler n. 1 a user of sculls. 2 a boat intended for sculling.
scullery n. (pl. -ies) a small kitchen or room at the back of a house
for washing dishes etc. [ME f. AF squillerie, OF escuelerie f.
escuele dish f. L scutella salver dimin. of scutra wooden
platter]
scullion n. archaic 1 a cook's boy. 2 a person who washes dishes etc.
[ME: orig. unkn.]
sculpin n. any of numerous fish of the family Cottidae, native to
non-tropical regions, having large spiny heads. [perh. f. obs.
scorpene f. L scorpaena f. Gk skorpaina a fish]
sculpt v.tr. & intr. (also sculp) sculpture. [F sculpter f.
sculpteur SCULPTOR: now regarded as an abbr.]
sculptor n. (fem. sculptress) an artist who makes sculptures. [L (as
SCULPTURE)]
sculpture n. & v. --n. 1 the art of making forms, often
representational, in the round or in relief by chiselling stone,
carving wood, modelling clay, casting metal, etc. 2 a work or
works of sculpture. 3 Zool. & Bot. raised or sunken markings on
a shell etc. --v. 1 tr. represent in or adorn with sculpture.
2 intr. practise sculpture. ЬЬsculptural adj. sculpturally
adv. sculpturesque adj. [ME f. L sculptura f. sculpere
sculpt- carve]
scum n. & v. --n. 1 a layer of dirt, froth, or impurities etc.
forming at the top of liquid, esp. in boiling or fermentation.
2 (foll. by of) the most worthless part of something. 3 colloq.
a worthless person or group. --v. (scummed, scumming) 1 tr.
remove scum from; skim. 2 tr. be or form a scum on. 3 intr.
(of a liquid) develop scum. ЬЬscummy adj. (scummier,
scummiest) adj. [ME f. MLG, MDu. schum, OHG scum f. Gmc]
scumble v. & n. --v.tr. 1 modify (a painting) by applying a thin
opaque coat of paint to give a softer or duller effect. 2
modify (a drawing) similarly with light pencilling etc. --n. 1
material used in scumbling. 2 the effect produced by scumbling.
[perh. frequent. of SCUM v.tr.]
scuncheon n. the inside face of a door-jamb, window-frame, etc. [ME f.
OF escoinson (as EX-(1), COIN)]
scunge n. Austral. & NZ colloq. 1 dirt, scum. 2 a dirty or
disagreeable person. ЬЬscungy adj. (scungier, scungiest).
[perh. f. E dial. scrunge steal: cf. SCROUNGE]
scunner v. & n. Sc. --v.intr. feel disgust or nausea. --n. 1 a
strong dislike (esp. take a scunner at or against). 2 an
object of loathing. [14th c.: orig. uncert.]
scup n. an E. American fish, Stenostomus chrysops, a kind of porgy.
[Narraganset mishcup thick-scaled f. mishe large + cuppi scale]
scupper(1)
n. a hole in a ship's side to carry off water from the deck.
[ME (perh. f. AF) f. OF escopir f. Rmc skuppire (unrecorded) to
spit: orig. imit.]
scupper(2)
v.tr. Brit. sl. 1 sink (a ship or its crew). 2 defeat or
ruin (a plan etc.). 3 kill. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
scurf n. 1 flakes on the surface of the skin, cast off as fresh skin
develops below, esp. those of the head; dandruff. 2 any scaly
matter on a surface. ЬЬscurfy adj. [OE, prob. f. ON & earlier
OE sceorf, rel. to sceorfan gnaw, sceorfian cut to shreds]
scurrilous
adj. 1 (of a person or language) grossly or indecently abusive.
2 given to or expressed with low humour. ЬЬscurrility n. (pl.
-ies). scurrilously adv. scurrilousness n. [F scurrile or L
scurrilus f. scurra buffoon]
scurry v. & n. --v.intr. (-ies, -ied) run or move hurriedly, esp.
with short quick steps; scamper. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 the act or
sound of scurrying. 2 bustle, haste. 3 a flurry of rain or
snow. [abbr. of hurry-scurry redupl. of HURRY]
scurvy n. & adj. --n. a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C,
characterized by swollen bleeding gums and the opening of
previously healed wounds, esp. formerly affecting sailors.
--adj. (scurvier, scurviest) paltry, low, mean, dishonourable,
contemptible. Ьscurvy grass any cresslike seaside plant of the
genus Cochlearia, orig. taken as a cure for scurvy. ЬЬscurvied
adj. scurvily adv. [SCURF + -Y(1): noun sense by assoc. with F
scorbut (cf. SCORBUTIC)]
scut n. a short tail, esp. of a hare, rabbit, or deer. [ME: orig.
unkn.: cf. obs. scut short, shorten]
scuta pl. of SCUTUM.
scutage n. hist. money paid by a feudal landowner instead of personal
service. [ME f. med.L scutagium f. L scutum shield]
scutch v.tr. dress (fibrous material, esp. retted flax) by beating.
ЬЬscutcher n. [OF escouche, escoucher (dial.), escousser, ult.
f. L excutere excuss- (as EX-(1), quatere shake)]
scutcheon n. 1 = ESCUTCHEON. 2 an ornamented brass etc. plate round or
over a keyhole. 3 a plate for a name or inscription. [ME f.
ESCUTCHEON]
scute n. Zool. etc. = SCUTUM. [L (as SCUTUM)]
scutellum n. (pl. scutella) Bot. & Zool. a scale, plate, or any
shieldlike formation on a plant, insect, bird, etc., esp. one of
the horny scales on a bird's foot. ЬЬscutellate adj.
scutellation n. [mod.L dimin. of L scutum shield]
scutter v. & n. --v.intr. colloq. scurry. --n. the act or an instance
of scuttering. [perh. alt. of SCUTTLE(2)]
scuttle(1)
n. 1 a receptacle for carrying and holding a small supply of
coal. 2 Brit. the part of a motor-car body between the
windscreen and the bonnet. [ME f. ON skutill, OHG scuzzila f. L
scutella dish]
scuttle(2)
v. & n. --v.intr. 1 scurry; hurry along. 2 run away; flee
from danger or difficulty. --n. 1 a hurried gait. 2 a
precipitate flight or departure. [cf. dial. scuddle frequent.
of SCUD]
scuttle(3)
n. & v. --n. a hole with a lid in a ship's deck or side.
--v.tr. let water into (a ship) to sink it, esp. by opening the
seacocks. [ME, perh. f. obs. F escoutille f. Sp. escotilla
hatchway dimin. of escota cutting out cloth]
scuttlebutt
n. 1 a water-butt on the deck of a ship, for drinking from. 2
colloq. rumour, gossip.
scutum n. (pl. scuta) each of the shieldlike plates or scales forming
the bony covering of a crocodile, sturgeon, turtle, armadillo,
etc. ЬЬscutal adj. scutate adj. [L, = oblong shield]
Scylla and Charybdis
n.pl. two dangers such that avoidance of one increases the risk
from the other. [the names of a sea-monster and whirlpool in Gk
mythology]
scyphozoan
n. & adj. --n. any marine jellyfish of the class Scyphozoa,
with tentacles bearing stinging cells. --adj. of or relating to
this class. [as SCYPHUS + Gk zoion animal]
scyphus n. (pl. scyphi) 1 Gk Antiq. a footless drinking-cup with two
handles below the level of the rim. 2 Bot. a cup-shaped part as
in a narcissus flower or in lichens. ЬЬscyphose adj. [mod.L f.
Gk skuphos]
scythe n. & v. --n. a mowing and reaping implement with a long curved
blade swung over the ground by a long pole with two short
handles projecting from it. --v.tr. cut with a scythe. [OE
sithe f. Gmc]
Scythian adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to ancient Scythia, a region
north of the Black Sea. --n. 1 an inhabitant of Scythia. 2
the language of this region. [L Scythia f. Gk Skuthia Scythia]
se- prefix apart, without (seclude; secure). [L f. OL se (prep. &
adv.)]
sea n. 1 the expanse of salt water that covers most of the earth's
surface and surrounds its land masses. 2 any part of this as
opposed to land or fresh water. 3 a particular (usu. named)
tract of salt water partly or wholly enclosed by land (the North
Sea; the Dead Sea). 4 a large inland lake (the Sea of Galilee).
5 the waves of the sea, esp. with reference to their local
motion or state (a choppy sea). 6 (foll. by of) a vast quantity
or expanse (a sea of troubles; a sea of faces). 7 (attrib.)
living or used in, on, or near the sea (often prefixed to the
name of a marine animal, plant, etc., having a superficial
resemblance to what it is named after) (sea lettuce). Ьat sea 1
in a ship on the sea. 2 (also all at sea) perplexed, confused.
by sea in a ship or ships. go to sea become a sailor. on the
sea 1 in a ship at sea. 2 situated on the coast. put (or put
out) to sea leave land or port. sea anchor a device such as a
heavy bag dragged in the water to retard the drifting of a ship.
sea anemone any of various coelenterates of the order Actiniaria
having a polypoid body bearing a ring of tentacles around the
mouth. sea-angel an angel-fish. sea bass any of various marine
fishes like the bass, esp. Centropristis striatus. sea bird a
bird frequenting the sea or the land near the sea. sea bream =
PORGY. sea breeze a breeze blowing towards the land from the
sea, esp. during the day (cf. land breeze). sea buckthorn a
maritime shrub, Hippopha‰ rhamnoides with orange berries. sea
change a notable or unexpected transformation (with ref. to
Shakesp. Tempest I. ii. 403). sea-chest a sailor's
storage-chest. sea coal archaic mineral coal, as distinct from
charcoal etc. sea cow 1 a sirenian. 2 a walrus. sea cucumber
a holothurian, esp. a b€che-de-mer. sea dog an old or
experienced sailor. sea eagle any fish-eating eagle esp. of the
genus Halia‰tus. sea-ear = ORMER. sea elephant any large seal
of the genus Mirounga, the male of which has a proboscis: also
called elephant seal. sea fan any colonial coral of the order
Gorgonacea supported by a fanlike horny skeleton. sea front the
part of a coastal town directly facing the sea. sea-girt
literary surrounded by sea. sea gooseberry any marine animal of
the phylum Ctenophora, with an ovoid body bearing numerous
cilia. sea-green bluish-green (as of the sea). sea hare any of
various marine molluscs of the order Anaspidea, having an
internal shell and long extensions from its foot. sea holly a
spiny-leaved blue-flowered evergreen plant, Eryngium maritimum.
sea horse 1 any of various small upright marine fish of the
family Syngnathidae, esp. Hippocampus hippocampus, having a
body suggestive of the head and neck of a horse. 2 a mythical
creature with a horse's head and fish's tail. sea-island cotton
a fine-quality long-stapled cotton grown on islands off the
southern US. sea lavender any maritime plant of the genus
Limonium, with small brightly-coloured funnel-shaped flowers.
sea legs the ability to keep one's balance and avoid seasickness
when at sea. sea level the mean level of the sea's surface,
used in reckoning the height of hills etc. and as a barometric
standard. sea lily any of various sessile echinoderms, esp. of
the class Crinoidea, with long jointed stalks and feather-like
arms for trapping food. sea lion any large, eared seal of the
Pacific, esp. of the genus Zalophus or Otaria. sea loch = LOCH
2. Sea Lord (in the UK) a naval member of the Admiralty Board.
sea mile = nautical mile. sea mouse any iridescent marine
annelid of the genus Aphrodite. sea onion = SQUILL 2. sea
otter a Pacific otter, Enhydra lutris, using a stone balanced on
its abdomen to crack bivalve molluscs. sea pink a maritime
plant, Armeria maritima, with bright pink flowers: also called
THRIFT. sea purse the egg-case of a skate or shark. sea room
clear space at sea for a ship to turn or manoeuvre in. sea salt
salt produced by evaporating sea water. Sea Scout a member of
the maritime branch of the Scout Association. sea serpent (or
snake) 1 a snake of the family Hydrophidae, living in the sea.
2 an enormous legendary serpent-like sea monster. sea shell the
shell of a salt-water mollusc. sea snail 1 a small slimy fish
of the family Liparididae, with a ventral sucker. 2 any
spiral-shelled mollusc, e.g. a whelk. sea squirt any marine
turnicate of the class Ascidiacea, consisting of a bag-like
structure with apertures for the flow of water. sea trout =
salmon trout. sea urchin a small marine echinoderm of the class
Echinoidea, with a spherical or flattened spiny shell. sea wall
a wall or embankment erected to prevent encroachment by the sea.
sea water water in or taken from the sea. [OE s‘ f. Gmc]
seabed n. the ground under the sea; the ocean floor.
seaboard n. 1 the seashore or coastal region. 2 the line of a coast.
seaborne adj. transported by sea.
seacock n. a valve below a ship's water-line for letting water in or
out.
seafarer n. 1 a sailor. 2 a traveller by sea.
seafaring adj. & n. travelling by sea, esp. regularly.
seafood n. edible sea fish or shellfish.
seagoing adj. 1 (of ships) fit for crossing the sea. 2 (of a person)
seafaring.
seagull n. = GULL(1).
seakale n. a cruciferous maritime plant, Crambe maritima, having
coarsely-toothed leaves and used as a vegetable. Ьseakale beet
= CHARD.
seal(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a piece of wax, lead, paper, etc., with a
stamped design, attached to a document as a guarantee of
authenticity. 2 a similar material attached to a receptacle,
envelope, etc., affording security by having to be broken to
allow access to the contents. 3 an engraved piece of metal,
gemstone, etc., for stamping a design on a seal. 4 a a
substance or device used to close an aperture or act as a
fastening. b an amount of water standing in the trap of a drain
to prevent foul air from rising. 5 an act or gesture or event
regarded as a confirmation or guarantee. 6 a significant or
prophetic mark (has the seal of death in his face). 7 a
decorative adhesive stamp. 8 esp. Eccl. a vow of secrecy; an
obligation to silence. --v.tr. 1 close securely or
hermetically. 2 stamp or fasten with a seal. 3 fix a seal to.
4 certify as correct with a seal or stamp. 5 (often foll. by
up) confine or fasten securely. 6 settle or decide (their fate
is sealed). 7 (foll. by off) put barriers round (an area) to
prevent entry and exit, esp. as a security measure. 8 apply a
non-porous coating to (a surface) to make it impervious. ЬGreat
Seal (in the UK) the seal in the charge of the Lord Chancellor
or Lord Keeper used in sealing important State papers. one's
lips are sealed one is obliged to keep a secret. sealed-beam
(attrib.) designating a vehicle headlamp with a sealed unit
consisting of the light source, reflector, and lens. sealed
book see BOOK. sealed orders orders for procedure not to be
opened before a specified time. sealing-wax a mixture of
shellac and rosin with turpentine and pigment, softened by
heating and used to make seals. seal ring a finger ring with a
seal. seals of office (in the UK) those held during tenure esp.
by the Lord Chancellor or a Secretary of State. set one's seal
to (or on) authorize or confirm. ЬЬsealable adj. [ME f. AF
seal, OF seel f. L sigillum dimin. of signum SIGN]
seal(2) n. & v. --n. any fish-eating amphibious sea mammal of the
family Phocidae or Otariidae, with flippers and webbed feet.
--v.intr. hunt for seals. [OE seolh seol- f. Gmc]
sealant n. material for sealing, esp. to make something airtight or
watertight.
sealer n. a ship or person engaged in hunting seals.
sealery n. (pl. -ies) a place for hunting seals.
sealskin n. 1 the skin or prepared fur of a seal. 2 (often attrib.) a
garment made from this.
Sealyham n. (in full Sealyham terrier) 1 a terrier of a wire-haired
short-legged breed. 2 this breed. [Sealyham in S. Wales]
seam n. & v. --n. 1 a line where two edges join, esp. of two pieces
of cloth etc. turned back and stitched together, or of boards
fitted edge to edge. 2 a fissure between parallel edges. 3 a
wrinkle or scar. 4 a stratum of coal etc. --v.tr. 1 join with
a seam. 2 (esp. as seamed adj.) mark or score with or as with a
seam. Ьbursting at the seams full to overflowing. seam bowler
Cricket a bowler who makes the ball deviate by bouncing off its
seam. ЬЬseamer n. seamless adj. [OE seam f. Gmc]
seaman n. (pl. -men) 1 a sailor, esp. one below the rank of officer.
2 a person regarded in terms of skill in navigation (a poor
seaman). ЬЬseamanlike adj. seamanly adj. [OE s‘man (as SEA,
MAN)]
seamanship
n. skill in managing a ship or boat.
seamstress
n. (also sempstress) a woman who sews, esp. professionally; a
needlewoman. [OE seamestre fem. f. seamere tailor, formed as
SEAM + -STER + -ESS(1)]
seamy adj. (seamier, seamiest) 1 marked with or showing seams. 2
unpleasant, disreputable (esp. the seamy side). ЬЬseaminess n.
Seanad n. the upper House of Parliament in the Republic of Ireland.
[Ir., = senate]
seance n. (also s‚ance) a meeting at which spiritualists attempt to
make contact with the dead. [F s‚ance f. OF seoir f. L sedere
sit]
seaplane n. an aircraft designed to take off from and land and float on
water.
seaport n. a town with a harbour for seagoing ships.
sear v. & adj. --v.tr. 1 a scorch, esp. with a hot iron; cauterize,
brand. b (as searing adj.) scorching, burning (searing pain).
2 cause pain or great anguish to. 3 brown (meat) quickly at a
high temperature so that it will retain its juices in cooking.
4 make (one's conscience, feelings, etc.) callous. 5 archaic
blast, wither. --adj. (also sere) literary (esp. of a plant
etc.) withered, dried up. [OE sear (adj.), searian (v.), f.
Gmc]
search v. & n. --v. 1 tr. look through or go over thoroughly to find
something. 2 tr. examine or feel over (a person) to find
anything concealed. 3 tr. a probe or penetrate into. b
examine or question (one's mind, conscience, etc.) thoroughly.
4 intr. (often foll. by for) make a search or investigation. 5
intr. (as searching adj.) (of an examination) thorough; leaving
no loopholes. 6 tr. (foll. by out) look probingly for; seek
out. --n. 1 an act of searching. 2 an investigation. Ьin
search of trying to find. right of search a belligerent's right
to stop a neutral vessel and search it for prohibited goods.
search me! colloq. I do not know. search-party a group of
people organized to look for a lost person or thing. search
warrant an official authorization to enter and search a
building. ЬЬsearchable adj. searcher n. searchingly adv. [ME
f. AF sercher, OF cerchier f. LL circare go round (as CIRCUS)]
searchlight
n. 1 a powerful outdoor electric light with a concentrated beam
that can be turned in any direction. 2 the light or beam from
this.
seascape n. a picture or view of the sea.
seashore n. 1 land close to or bordering on the sea. 2 Law the area
between high and low water marks.
seasick adj. suffering from sickness or nausea from the motion of a
ship at sea. ЬЬseasickness n.
seaside n. the sea-coast, esp. as a holiday resort.
season n. & v. --n. 1 each of the four divisions of the year (spring,
summer, autumn, and winter) associated with a type of weather
and a stage of vegetation. 2 a time of year characterized by
climatic or other features (the dry season). 3 a the time of
year when a plant is mature or flowering etc. b the time of
year when an animal breeds or is hunted. 4 a proper or suitable
time. 5 a time when something is plentiful or active or in
vogue. 6 (usu. prec. by the) = high season. 7 the time of year
regularly devoted to an activity (the football season). 8 the
time of year dedicated to social life generally (went up to
London for the season). 9 a period of indefinite or varying
length. 10 Brit. colloq. = season ticket. --v. 1 tr. flavour
(food) with salt, herbs, etc. 2 tr. enhance with wit,
excitement, etc. 3 tr. temper or moderate. 4 tr. & intr. a
make or become suitable or in the desired condition, esp. by
exposure to the air or weather; mature. b make or become
experienced or accustomed (seasoned soldiers). Ьin season 1 (of
foodstuff) available in plenty and in good condition. 2 (of an
animal) on heat. 3 timely. season ticket a ticket entitling
the holder to any number of journeys, admittances, etc., in a
given period. ЬЬseasoner n. [ME f. OF seson f. L satio -onis
(in Rmc sense 'seed-time') f. serere sat- sow]
seasonable
adj. 1 suitable to or usual in the season. 2 opportune. 3
meeting the needs of the occasion. ЬЬseasonableness n.
seasonably adv.
seasonal adj. of, depending on, or varying with the season. Ьseasonal
affective disorder a depressive state associated with late
autumn and winter and thought to be caused by a lack of light.
ЬЬseasonality n. seasonally adv.
seasoning n. condiments added to food.
seat n. & v. --n. 1 a thing made or used for sitting on; a chair,
stool, saddle, etc. 2 the buttocks. 3 the part of the trousers
etc. covering the buttocks. 4 the part of a chair etc. on which
the sitter's weight directly rests. 5 a place for one person in
a theatre, vehicle, etc. 6 the occupation of a seat. 7 esp.
Brit. a the right to occupy a seat, esp. as a Member of the
House of Commons. b a member's constituency. 8 the part of a
machine that supports or guides another part. 9 a site or
location of something specified (a seat of learning; the seat of
the emotions). 10 a country mansion, esp. with large grounds.
11 the manner of sitting on a horse etc. --v.tr. 1 cause to
sit. 2 a provide sitting accommodation for (the cinema seats
500). b provide with seats. 3 (as seated adj.) sitting. 4 put
or fit in position. Ьbe seated sit down. by the seat of one's
pants colloq. by instinct rather than logic or knowledge.
seat-belt a belt securing a person in the seat of a car or
aircraft. take a (or one's) seat sit down. ЬЬseatless adj.
[ME f. ON s‘ti (= OE gesete f. Gmc)]
-seater n. (in comb.) having a specified number of seats (a 16-seater
bus).
seating n. 1 seats collectively. 2 sitting accommodation.
SEATO abbr. South-East Asia Treaty Organization.
seaward adv., adj., & n. --adv. (also seawards) towards the sea.
--adj. going or facing towards the sea. --n. such a direction
or position.
seaway n. 1 an inland waterway open to seagoing ships. 2 a ship's
progress. 3 a ship's path across the sea.
seaweed n. any of various algae growing in the sea or on the rocks on a
shore.
seaworthy adj. (esp. of a ship) fit to put to sea. ЬЬseaworthiness n.
sebaceous adj. fatty; of or relating to tallow or fat. Ьsebaceous gland
(or follicle or duct) a gland etc. secreting or conveying oily
matter to lubricate the skin and hair. [L sebaceus f. sebum
tallow]
seborrhoea
n. (US seborrhea) excessive discharge of sebum from the
sebaceous glands. ЬЬseborrhoeic adj. [SEBUM after gonorrhoea
etc.]
sebum n. the oily secretion of the sebaceous glands. [mod.L f. L
sebum grease]
Sec. abbr. secretary.
sec adj. (of wine) dry. [F f. L siccus]
sec(1) abbr. secant.
sec(2) n. colloq. (in phrases) a second (of time). [abbr.]
sec. abbr. second(s).
secant adj. & n. Math. --adj. cutting (secant line). --n. 1 a line
cutting a curve at one or more points. 2 the ratio of the
hypotenuse to the shorter side adjacent to an acute angle (in a
right-angled triangle). °Abbr.: sec. [F s‚cant(e) f. L secare
secant- cut]
secateurs n.pl. esp. Brit. a pair of pruning clippers for use with one
hand. [F s‚cateur cutter, irreg. f. L secare cut]
secco n. the technique of painting on dry plaster with pigments mixed
in water. [It., = dry, f. L siccus]
secede v.intr. (usu. foll. by from) withdraw formally from membership
of a political federation or a religious body. ЬЬseceder n. [L
secedere secess- (as SE-, cedere go)]
secession n. 1 the act or an instance of seceding. 2 (Secession) hist.
the withdrawal of eleven southern States from the US Union in
1860, leading to the Civil War. ЬЬsecessional adj.
secessionism n. secessionist n. [F s‚cession or L secessio (as
SECEDE)]
seclude v.tr. (also refl.) 1 keep (a person or place) retired or away
from company. 2 (esp. as secluded adj.) hide or screen from
view. [ME f. L secludere seclus- (as SE-, claudere shut)]
seclusion n. 1 a secluded state; retirement, privacy. 2 a secluded
place. ЬЬseclusionist n. seclusive adj. [med.L seclusio (as
SECLUDE)]
second(1) n., adj., & v. --n. 1 the position in a sequence corresponding
to that of the number 2 in the sequence 1-2. 2 something
occupying this position. 3 the second person etc. in a race or
competition. 4 Mus. a an interval or chord spanning two
consecutive notes in the diatonic scale (e.g. C to D). b a note
separated from another by this interval. 5 = second gear. 6
another person or thing in addition to one previously mentioned
or considered (the policeman was then joined by a second). 7
(in pl.) a goods of a second or inferior quality. b coarse
flour, or bread made from it. 8 (in pl.) colloq. a a second
helping of food at a meal. b the second course of a meal. 9 an
attendant assisting a combatant in a duel, boxing-match, etc.
10 a a place in the second class of an examination. b a person
having this. --adj. 1 that is the second; next after first. 2
additional, further; other besides one previously mentioned or
considered (ate a second cake). 3 subordinate in position or
importance etc.; inferior. 4 Mus. performing a lower or
subordinate part (second violins). 5 such as to be comparable
to; closely reminiscent of (a second Callas). --v.tr. 1
supplement, support; back up. 2 formally support or endorse (a
nomination or resolution etc., or its proposer). Ьat second
hand by hearsay, not direct observation etc. in the second
place as a second consideration etc. second advent a supposed
return of Christ to earth. second ballot a deciding ballot
between candidates coming first (without an absolute majority)
and second in a previous ballot. second-best adj. next after
best. --n. a less adequate or desirable alternative. second
cause Logic a cause that is itself caused. second chamber the
upper house of a bicameral parliament. second class the
second-best group or category, esp. of hotel or train
accommodation or (in the UK) of postal services. second-class
adj. 1 of or belonging to the second class. 2 inferior in
quality, status, etc. (second-class citizens). --adv. by
second-class post, train, etc. (travelled second-class). second
coming Theol. the second advent of Christ on earth. second
cousin see COUSIN. second-degree Med. denoting burns that
cause blistering but not permanent scars. second fiddle see
FIDDLE. second floor 1 Brit. the floor two levels above the
ground floor. 2 US the floor above the ground floor. second
gear the second (and next to lowest) in a sequence of gears.
second-generation denoting the offspring of a first generation,
esp. of immigrants. second-guess colloq. 1 anticipate or
predict by guesswork. 2 judge or criticize with hindsight.
second honeymoon a holiday like a honeymoon, taken by a couple
after some years of marriage. second in command the officer
next in rank to the commanding or chief officer. second
lieutenant an army officer next below lieutenant or US first
lieutenant. second name a surname. second nature (often foll.
by to) an acquired tendency that has become instinctive (is
second nature to him). second officer an assistant mate on a
merchant ship. second person Gram. see PERSON. second-rate of
mediocre quality; inferior. second-rater a person or thing that
is second-rate. second reading a second presentation of a bill
to a legislative assembly, in the UK to approve its general
principles and in the US to debate committee reports. second
self a close friend or associate. second sight the supposed
power of being able to perceive future or distant events.
second-sighted having the gift of second sight. second string
an alternative course of action, means of livelihood, etc.,
invoked if the main one is unsuccessful. second teeth the teeth
that replace the milk teeth in a mammal. second thoughts a new
opinion or resolution reached after further consideration.
second to none surpassed by no other. second wind 1 recovery of
the power of normal breathing during exercise after initial
breathlessness. 2 renewed energy to continue an effort.
ЬЬseconder n. (esp. in sense 2 of v.). [ME f. OF f. L secundus
f. sequi follow]
second(2) n. 1 a sixtieth of a minute of time or angular distance.
°Symb.:'. 2 the SI unit of time, based on the natural
periodicity of the caesium atom. °Abbr.: s. 3 colloq. a very
short time (wait a second). Ьsecond hand an extra hand in some
watches and clocks, recording seconds. [F f. med.L secunda
(minuta) secondary (minute)]
second(3) v.tr. Brit. transfer (a military officer or other official or
worker) temporarily to other employment or to another position.
ЬЬsecondment n. [F en second in the second rank (of officers)]
secondary adj. & n. --adj. 1 coming after or next below what is primary.
2 derived from or depending on or supplementing what is primary.
3 (of education, a school, etc.) for those who have had primary
education, usu. from 11 to 18 years. 4 Electr. a (of a cell or
battery) having a reversible chemical reaction and therefore
able to store energy. b denoting a device using electromagnetic
induction, esp. a transformer. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 a secondary
thing. 2 a secondary device or current. Ьsecondary colour the
result of mixing two primary colours. secondary feather a
feather growing from the second joint of a bird's wing.
secondary picketing the picketing of premises of a firm not
otherwise involved in the dispute in question. secondary planet
a satellite of a planet (cf. primary planet). secondary sexual
characteristics those distinctive of one sex but not directly
related to reproduction. ЬЬsecondarily adv. secondariness n.
[ME f. L secundarius (as SECOND(1))]
seconde n. Fencing the second of eight parrying positions. [F, fem. of
second SECOND(1)]
second-hand
adj. & adv. --adj. also 1 a (of goods) having had a previous
owner; not new. b (of a shop etc.) where such goods can be
bought. 2 (of information etc.) accepted on another's authority
and not from original investigation. --adv. 1 on a second-hand
basis. 2 at second hand; not directly.
secondly adv. 1 furthermore; in the second place. 2 as a second item.
secondo n. (pl. secondi) Mus. the second or lower part in a duet etc.
[It.]
secrecy n. 1 the keeping of secrets as a fact, habit, or faculty. 2 a
state in which all information is withheld (was done in great
secrecy). Ьsworn to secrecy having promised to keep a secret.
[ME f. secretie f. obs. secre (adj.) or SECRET adj.]
secret adj. & n. --adj. 1 kept or meant to be kept private, unknown,
or hidden from all or all but a few. 2 acting or operating
secretly. 3 fond of, prone to, or able to preserve secrecy. 4
(of a place) hidden, completely secluded. --n. 1 a thing kept
or meant to be kept secret. 2 a thing known only to a few. 3 a
mystery. 4 a valid but not commonly known or recognized method
of achieving or maintaining something (what's their secret?;
correct breathing is the secret of good health). 5 RC Ch. a
prayer concluding the offertory of the mass. Ьin secret
secretly. in (or in on) the secret among the number of those
who know it. keep a secret not reveal it. secret agent a spy
acting for a country. secret ballot a ballot in which votes are
cast in secret. secret police a police force operating in
secret for political purposes. secret service a government
department concerned with espionage. secret society a society
whose members are sworn to secrecy about it. ЬЬsecretly adv.
[ME f. OF f. L secretus (adj.) separate, set apart f. secernere
secret- (as SE-, cernere sift)]
secretaire
n. an escritoire. [F (as SECRETARY)]
secretariat
n. 1 a permanent administrative office or department, esp. a
governmental one. 2 its members or premises. 3 the office of
secretary. [F secr‚tariat f. med.L secretariatus (as
SECRETARY)]
secretary n. (pl. -ies) 1 a person employed by an individual or in an
office etc. to assist with correspondence, keep records, make
appointments, etc. 2 an official appointed by a society etc. to
conduct its correspondence, keep its records, etc. 3 (in the
UK) the principal assistant of a government minister,
ambassador, etc. Ьsecretary bird a long-legged snake-eating
African bird, Sagittarius serpentarius, with a crest likened to
a quill pen stuck over a writer's ear. Secretary-General the
principal administrator of an organization. Secretary of State
1 (in the UK) the head of a major government department. 2 (in
the US) the chief government official responsible for foreign
affairs. ЬЬsecretarial adj. secretaryship n. [ME f. LL
secretarius (as SECRET)]
secrete(1)
v.tr. Biol. (of a cell, organ, etc.) produce by secretion.
ЬЬsecretor n. secretory adj. [back-form. f. SECRETION]
secrete(2)
v.tr. conceal; put into hiding. [obs. secret (v.) f. SECRET]
secretion n. 1 Biol. a a process by which substances are produced and
discharged from a cell for a function in the organism or for
excretion. b the secreted substance. 2 the act or an instance
of concealing (the secretion of stolen goods). [F s‚cr‚tion or
L secretio separation (as SECRET)]
secretive adj. inclined to make or keep secrets; uncommunicative.
ЬЬsecretively adv. secretiveness n. [back-form. f.
secretiveness after F secr‚tivit‚ (as SECRET)]
sect n. 1 a a body of people subscribing to religious doctrines usu.
different from those of an established Church from which they
have separated. b usu. derog. a nonconformist or other Church.
c a party or faction in a religious body. d a religious
denomination. 2 the followers of a particular philosopher or
philosophy, or school of thought in politics etc. [ME f. OF
secte or L secta f. the stem of sequi secut- follow]
sect. abbr. section.
sectarian adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or concerning a sect. 2 bigoted or
narrow-minded in following the doctrines of one's sect. --n. 1
a member of a sect. 2 a bigot. ЬЬsectarianism n. sectarianize
v.tr. (also -ise). [SECTARY]
sectary n. (pl. -ies) a member of a religious or political sect.
[med.L sectarius adherent (as SECT)]
section n. & v. --n. 1 a part cut off or separated from something. 2
each of the parts into which a thing is divided (actually or
conceptually) or divisible or out of which a structure can be
fitted together. 3 a distinct group or subdivision of a larger
body of people (the wind section of an orchestra). 4 a
subdivision of a book, document, statute, etc. 5 US a an area
of land. b one square mile of land. c a particular district of
a town (residential section). 6 a subdivision of an army
platoon. 7 esp. Surgery a separation by cutting. 8 Biol. a
thin slice of tissue etc., cut off for microscopic examination.
9 a the cutting of a solid by or along a plane. b the resulting
figure or the area of this. 10 a representation of the internal
structure of something as if cut across along a vertical or
horizontal plane. 11 Biol. a group, esp. a subgenus. --v.tr.
1 arrange in or divide into sections. 2 Brit. cause (a person)
to be compulsorily committed to a psychiatric hospital in
accordance with a section of a mental health act. 3 Biol. cut
into thin slices for microscopic examination. Ьsection-mark the
sign (°) used as a reference mark to indicate the start of a
section of a book etc. [F section or L sectio f. secare sect-
cut]
sectional adj. 1 a relating to a section, esp. of a community. b
partisan. 2 made in sections. 3 local rather than general.
ЬЬsectionalism n. sectionalist n. & adj. sectionalize v.tr.
(also -ise). sectionally adv.
sector n. 1 a distinct part or branch of an enterprise, or of society,
the economy, etc. 2 Mil. a subdivision of an area for military
operations, controlled by one commander or headquarters. 3 the
plane figure enclosed by two radii of a circle, ellipse, etc.,
and the arc between them. 4 a mathematical instrument
consisting of two arms hinged at one end and marked with sines,
tangents, etc., for making diagrams etc. ЬЬsectoral adj. [LL,
techn. use of L sector cutter (as SECTION)]
sectorial adj. 1 of or like a sector or sectors. 2 = CARNASSIAL.
secular adj. & n. --adj. 1 concerned with the affairs of this world;
not spiritual or sacred. 2 (of education etc.) not concerned
with religion or religious belief. 3 a not ecclesiastical or
monastic. b (of clergy) not bound by a religious rule. 4
occurring once in an age or century. 5 lasting for or occurring
over an indefinitely long time. --n. a secular priest.
Ьsecular variation Astron. variation compensated over a long
period of time. ЬЬsecularism n. secularist n. secularity n.
secularize v.tr. (also -ise). secularization n. secularly
adv. [ME (in senses 1-3 f. OF seculer) f. L saecularis f.
saeculum generation, age]
secund adj. Bot. arranged on one side only (as the flowers of lily of
the valley). ЬЬsecundly adv. [L secundus (as SECOND)]
secure adj. & v. --adj. 1 untroubled by danger or fear. 2 safe
against attack: impregnable. 3 reliable; certain not to fail
(the plan is secure). 4 fixed or fastened so as not to give way
or get loose or be lost (made the door secure). 5 a (foll. by
of) certain to achieve (secure of victory). b (foll. by
against, from) safe, protected (secure against attack). --v.tr.
1 make secure or safe; fortify. 2 fasten, close, or confine
securely. 3 succeed in obtaining or achieving (have secured
front seats). 4 guarantee against loss (a loan secured by
property). 5 compress (a blood-vessel) to prevent bleeding.
Ьsecure arms Mil. hold a rifle with the muzzle downward and the
lock in the armpit to guard it from rain. ЬЬsecurable adj.
securely adv. securement n. [L securus (as SE-, cura care)]
security n. (pl. -ies) 1 a secure condition or feeling. 2 a thing that
guards or guarantees. 3 a the safety of a State, company, etc.,
against espionage, theft, or other danger. b an organization
for ensuring this. 4 a thing deposited or pledged as a
guarantee of the fulfilment of an undertaking or the payment of
a loan, to be forfeited in case of default. 5 (often in pl.) a
certificate attesting credit or the ownership of stock, bonds,
etc. Ьon security of using as a guarantee. security blanket 1
an official sanction on information in the interest of security.
2 a blanket or other familiar object given as a comfort to a
child. Security Council a permanent body of the United Nations
seeking to maintain peace and security. security guard a person
employed to protect the security of buildings, vehicles, etc.
security risk a person whose presence may threaten security.
[ME f. OF securit‚ or L securitas (as SECURE)]
sedan n. 1 (in full sedan chair) an enclosed chair for conveying one
person, carried between horizontal poles by two porters, common
in the 17th-18th c. 2 US an enclosed motor car for four or more
people. [perh. alt. f. It. dial., ult. f. L sella saddle f.
sedere sit]
sedate(1) adj. tranquil and dignified; equable, serious. ЬЬsedately adv.
sedateness n. [L sedatus past part. of sedare settle f. sedere
sit]
sedate(2) v.tr. put under sedation. [back-form. f. SEDATION]
sedation n. a state of rest or sleep esp. produced by a sedative drug.
[F s‚dation or L sedatio (as SEDATE(1))]
sedative n. & adj. --n. a drug, influence, etc., that tends to calm or
soothe. --adj. calming, soothing; inducing sleep. [ME f. OF
sedatif or med.L sedativus (as SEDATE(1))]
sedentary adj. 1 sitting (a sedentary posture). 2 (of work etc.)
characterized by much sitting and little physical exercise. 3
(of a person) spending much time seated. 4 Zool. not migratory,
free-swimming, etc. ЬЬsedentarily adv. sedentariness n. [F
s‚dentaire or L sedentarius f. sedere sit]
Seder n. the ritual for the first night or first two nights of the
Passover. [Heb. seder order]
sederunt n. Sc. a sitting of an ecclesiastical assembly or other body.
[L, = (the following persons) sat f. sedere sit]
sedge n. 1 any grasslike plant of the genus Carex with triangular
stems, usu. growing in wet areas. 2 an expanse of this plant.
Ьsedge-warbler (or -wren) a small warbler, Acrocephalus
schoenobaenus, that breeds in sedge. ЬЬsedgy adj. [OE secg f.
Gmc]
sedile n. (pl. sedilia) (usu. in pl.) Eccl. each of usu. three stone
seats for priests in the south wall of a chancel, often canopied
and decorated. [L, = seat f. sedere sit]
sediment n. 1 matter that settles to the bottom of a liquid; dregs. 2
Geol. matter that is carried by water or wind and deposited on
the surface of the land, and may in time become consolidated
into rock. ЬЬsedimentary adj. sedimentation n. [F s‚diment or
L sedimentum (as SEDILE)]
sedition n. 1 conduct or speech inciting to rebellion or a breach of
public order. 2 agitation against the authority of a State.
ЬЬseditious adj. seditiously adv. [ME f. OF sedition or L
seditio f. sed- = SE- + ire it- go]
seduce v.tr. 1 tempt or entice into sexual activity or into
wrongdoing. 2 coax or lead astray; tempt (seduced by the smell
of coffee). ЬЬseducer n. seducible adj. [L seducere seduct-
(as SE-, ducere lead)]
seduction n. 1 the act or an instance of seducing; the process of being
seduced. 2 something that tempts or allures. [F s‚duction or L
seductio (as SEDUCE)]
seductive adj. tending to seduce; alluring, enticing. ЬЬseductively adv.
seductiveness n. [SEDUCTION after inductive etc.]
seductress
n. a female seducer. [obs. seductor male seducer (as SEDUCE)]
sedulous adj. 1 persevering, diligent, assiduous. 2 (of an action etc.)
deliberately and consciously continued; painstaking. ЬЬsedulity
n. sedulously adv. sedulousness n. [L sedulus zealous]
sedum n. any plant of the genus Sedum, with fleshy leaves and
star-shaped yellow, pink, or white flowers, e.g. stonecrop. [L,
= houseleek]
see(1) v. (past saw; past part. seen) 1 tr. discern by use of the
eyes; observe; look at (can you see that spider?; saw him fall
over). 2 intr. have or use the power of discerning objects with
the eyes (sees best at night). 3 tr. discern mentally;
understand (I see what you mean; could not see the joke). 4 tr.
watch; be a spectator of (a film, game, etc.). 5 tr. ascertain
or establish by inquiry or research or reflection (I will see if
the door is open). 6 tr. consider; deduce from observation (I
see that you are a brave man). 7 tr. contemplate; foresee
mentally (we saw that no good would come of it; can see myself
doing this job indefinitely). 8 tr. look at for information
(usu. in imper. as a direction in or to a book: see page 15). 9
tr. meet or be near and recognize (I saw your mother in town).
10 tr. a meet socially (sees her sister most weeks). b meet
regularly as a boyfriend or girlfriend; court (is still seeing
that tall man). 11 tr. give an interview to (the doctor will
see you now). 12 tr. visit to consult (went to see the doctor).
13 tr. find out or learn, esp. from a visual source (I see the
match has been cancelled). 14 intr. reflect; consider further;
wait until one knows more (we shall have to see). 15 tr.
interpret or have an opinion of (I see things differently now).
16 tr. experience; have presented to one's attention (I never
thought I would see this day). 17 tr. recognize as acceptable;
foresee (do you see your daughter marrying this man?). 18 tr.
observe without interfering (stood by and saw them squander my
money). 19 tr. find attractive (can't think what she sees in
him). 20 intr. (usu. foll. by to, or that + infin.) make
provision for; ensure; attend to (shall see to your request
immediately; see that he gets home safely) (cf. see to it). 21
tr. escort or conduct (to a place etc.) (saw them home). 22 tr.
be a witness of (an event etc.) (see the New Year in). 23 tr.
supervise (an action etc.) (will stay and see the doors locked).
24 tr. a (in gambling, esp. poker) equal (a bet). b equal the
bet of (a player), esp. to see the player's cards. Ьas far as I
can see to the best of my understanding or belief. as I see it
in my opinion. do you see? do you understand? has seen better
days has declined from former prosperity, good condition, etc.
I'll be seeing you colloq. an expression on parting. I see I
understand (referring to an explanation etc.). let me see an
appeal for time to think before speaking etc. see about attend
to. see after 1 take care of. 2 = see about. see the back of
colloq. be rid of (an unwanted person or thing). see a person
damned first colloq. refuse categorically and with hostility to
do what a person wants. see eye to eye see EYE. see fit see
FIT(1). see here! = look here. see into investigate. see life
gain experience of the world, often by enjoying oneself. see
the light 1 realize one's mistakes etc. 2 suddenly see the way
to proceed. 3 undergo religious conversion. see the light of
day (usu. with neg.) come into existence. see off 1 be present
at the departure of (a person) (saw them off at Heathrow). 2
colloq. ward off, get the better of (managed to see off an
investigation into their working methods). see out 1 accompany
out of a building etc. 2 finish (a project etc.) completely. 3
remain awake, alive, etc., until the end of (a period). 4 last
longer than; outlive. see over inspect; tour and examine. see
reason see REASON. see red become suddenly enraged. see a
person right make sure that a person is rewarded, safe, etc.
see service see SERVICE. see stars colloq. see lights before
one's eyes as a result of a blow on the head. see things have
hallucinations or false imaginings. see through 1 not be
deceived by; detect the true nature of. 2 penetrate visually.
see-through adj. (esp. of clothing) translucent. see a person
through support a person during a difficult time. see a thing
through persist with it until it is completed. see to it (foll.
by that + clause) ensure (see to it that I am not disturbed)
(cf. sense 20 of v.). see one's way clear to feel able or
entitled to. see the world see WORLD. see you (or see you
later) colloq. an expression on parting. we shall see 1 let us
await the outcome. 2 a formula for declining to act at once.
will see about it a formula for declining to act at once. you
see 1 you understand. 2 you will understand when I explain.
ЬЬseeable adj. [OE seon f. Gmc]
see(2) n. 1 the area under the authority of a bishop or archbishop, a
diocese (the see of Norwich). 2 the office or jurisdiction of a
bishop or archbishop (fill a vacant see). ЬSee of Rome the
papacy, the Holy See. [ME f. AF se(d) ult. f. L sedes seat f.
sedere sit]
seed n. & v. --n. 1 a a flowering plant's unit of reproduction
(esp. in the form of grain) capable of developing into another
such plant. b seeds collectively, esp. as collected for sowing
(is full of seed; to be kept for seed). 2 a semen. b milt. 3
(foll. by of) prime cause, beginning, germ (seeds of doubt). 4
archaic offspring, progeny, descendants (the seed of Abraham).
5 Sport a seeded player. 6 a small seedlike container for the
application of radium etc. 7 a seed crystal. --v. 1 tr. a
place seeds in. b sprinkle with or as with seed. 2 intr. sow
seeds. 3 intr. produce or drop seed. 4 tr. remove seeds from
(fruit etc.). 5 tr. place a crystal or crystalline substance in
(a solution etc.) to cause crystallization or condensation
(esp. in a cloud to produce rain). 6 tr. Sport a assign to (a
strong competitor in a knockout competition) a position in an
ordered list so that strong competitors do not meet each other
in early rounds (is seeded seventh). b arrange (the order of
play) in this way. 7 intr. go to seed. Ьgo (or run) to seed 1
cease flowering as seed develops. 2 become degenerate, unkempt,
ineffective, etc. raise up seed archaic beget children.
seed-bed 1 a bed of fine soil in which to sow seeds. 2 a place
of development. seed-cake cake containing whole seeds esp. of
caraway as flavouring. seed-coat the outer integument of a
seed. seed-corn 1 good quality corn kept for seed. 2 assets
reused for future profit or benefit. seed crystal a crystal
used to initiate crystallization. seed-eater a bird (esp. a
finch) living mainly on seeds. seed-fish a fish that is ready
to spawn. seed-leaf a cotyledon. seed-lip a basket for seed in
sowing by hand. seed money money allocated to initiate a
project. seed-pearl a very small pearl. seed-plot a place of
development. seed-potato a potato kept for seed. seed-time the
sowing season. seed-vessel a pericarp. ЬЬseedless adj. [OE
s‘d f. Gmc, rel. to SOW(1)]
seeder n. 1 a person or thing that seeds. 2 a machine for sowing
seed, esp. a drill. 3 an apparatus for seeding raisins etc. 4
Brit. a spawning fish.
seedling n. a young plant, esp. one raised from seed and not from a
cutting etc.
seedsman n. (pl. -men) a dealer in seeds.
seedy adj. (seedier, seediest) 1 full of seed. 2 going to seed. 3
shabby-looking, in worn clothes. 4 colloq. unwell. ЬЬseedily
adv. seediness n.
seeing conj. & n. --conj. (usu. foll. by that + clause) considering
that, inasmuch as, because (seeing that you do not know it
yourself). --n. Astron. the quality of observed images as
determined by atmospheric conditions.
seek v. (past and past part. sought) 1 a tr. make a search or
inquiry for. b intr. (foll. by for, after) make a search or
inquiry. 2 tr. a try or want to find or get. b ask for;
request (sought help from him; seeks my aid). 3 tr. (foll. by
to + infin.) endeavour or try. 4 tr. make for or resort to (a
place or person, for advice, health, etc.) (sought his bed;
sought a fortune-teller; sought the shore). 5 tr. archaic aim
at, attempt. 6 intr. (foll. by to) archaic resort. Ьseek dead
an order to a retriever to find killed game. seek out 1 search
for and find. 2 single out for companionship, etc.
sought-after much in demand; generally desired or courted. to
seek (or much to seek or far to seek) deficient, lacking, or not
yet found (the reason is not far to seek; an efficient leader is
yet to seek). ЬЬseeker n. (also in comb.). [OE secan f. Gmc]
seel v.tr. archaic close (a person's eyes). [obs. sile f. F
ciller, siller, or med.L ciliare f. L cilium eyelid]
seem v.intr. 1 give the impression or sensation of being (seems
ridiculous; seems certain to win). 2 (foll. by to + infin.)
appear or be perceived or ascertained (he seems to be breathing;
they seem to have left). Ьcan't seem to colloq. seem unable
to. do not seem to colloq. somehow do not (I do not seem to
like him). it seems (or would seem) (often foll. by that +
clause) it appears to be true or the fact (in a hesitant,
guarded, or ironical statement). [ME f. ON soema honour f.
soemr fitting]
seeming(1)
adj. 1 apparent but perhaps not real (with seeming sincerity).
2 apparent only; ostensible (the seeming and the real;
seeming-virtuous). ЬЬseemingly adv.
seeming(2)
n. literary 1 appearance, aspect. 2 deceptive appearance.
seemly adj. (seemlier, seemliest) conforming to propriety or good
taste; decorous, suitable. ЬЬseemliness n. [ME f. ON soemiligr
(as SEEM)]
seen past part. of SEE(1).
seep v. & n. --v.intr. ooze out; percolate slowly. --n. US a place
where petroleum etc. oozes slowly out of the ground. [perh.
dial. form of OE sipian to soak]
seepage n. 1 the act of seeping. 2 the quantity that seeps out.
seer(1) n. 1 a person who sees. 2 a prophet; a person who sees
visions; a person of supposed supernatural insight esp. as
regards the future. [ME f. SEE(1)]
seer(2) n. an Indian (varying) measure of weight (about one kilogram)
or liquid measure (about one litre). [Hindi ser]
seersucker
n. material of linen, cotton, etc., with a puckered surface.
[Pers. sir o sakar, lit. 'milk and sugar']
see-saw n., v., adj., & adv. --n. 1 a a device consisting of a long
plank balanced on a central support for children to sit on at
each end and move up and down by pushing the ground with their
feet. b a game played on this. 2 an up-and-down or to-and-fro
motion. 3 a contest in which the advantage repeatedly changes
from one side to the other. --v.intr. 1 play on a see-saw. 2
move up and down as on a see-saw. 3 vacillate in policy,
emotion, etc. --adj. & adv. with up-and-down or
backward-and-forward motion (see-saw motion). Ьgo see-saw
vacillate or alternate. [redupl. of SAW(1)]
seethe v. 1 intr. boil, bubble over. 2 intr. be very agitated, esp.
with anger (seething with discontent; I was seething inwardly).
3 tr. & intr. archaic cook by boiling. ЬЬseethingly adv. [OE
seothan f. Gmc]
segment n. & v. --n. 1 each of several parts into which a thing is or
can be divided or marked off. 2 Geom. a part of a figure cut
off by a line or plane intersecting it, esp.: a the part of a
circle enclosed between an arc and a chord. b the part of a
line included between two points. c the part of a sphere cut
off by any plane not passing through the centre. 3 the smallest
distinct part of a spoken utterance. 4 Zool. each of the
longitudinal sections of the body of certain animals (e.g.
worms). --v. usu. 1 intr. & tr. divide into segments. 2
intr. Biol. (of a cell) undergo cleavage or divide into many
cells. ЬЬsegmental adj. segmentalize v.tr. (also -ise).
segmentalization n. segmentally adv. segmentary adj.
segmentation n. [L segmentum f. secare cut]
sego n. (pl. -os) (in full sego lily) a N. American plant,
Calochortus nuttallii, with green and white bell-shaped flowers.
[Paiute]
segregate(1)
v. 1 tr. put apart from the rest; isolate. 2 tr. enforce
racial segregation on (persons) or in (a community etc.). 3
intr. separate from a mass and collect together. 4 intr. Biol.
(of alleles) separate into dominant and recessive groups.
ЬЬsegregable adj. segregative adj. [L segregare (as SE-, grex
gregis flock)]
segregate(2)
adj. 1 Zool. simple or solitary, not compound. 2 archaic set
apart, separate. [L segregatus past part. (as SEGREGATE(1))]
segregation
n. 1 enforced separation of racial groups in a community etc.
2 the act or an instance of segregating; the state of being
segregated. ЬЬsegregational adj. segregationist n. & adj. [LL
segregatio (as SEGREGATE(1))]
segue v. & n. esp. Mus. --v.intr. (segues, segued, seguing) (usu.
foll. by into) go on without a pause. --n. an uninterrupted
transition from one song or melody to another. [It., = follows]
seguidilla
n. 1 a Spanish dance in triple time. 2 the music for this.
[Sp. f. seguida following f. seguir follow]
Sehnsucht n. yearning, wistful longing. [G]
sei n. a small rorqual, Balaenoptera borealis. [Norw. sejhval sei
whale]
seicento n. the style of Italian art and literature of the 17th c.
ЬЬseicentist n. seicentoist n. [It., = 600, used with ref. to
the years 1600-99]
seiche n. a fluctuation in the water-level of a lake etc., usu. caused
by changes in barometric pressure. [Swiss F]
Seidlitz powder
n. (US Seidlitz powders) a laxative medicine of two powders
mixed separately with water and then poured together to
effervesce. [named with ref. to the mineral water of Seidlitz
in Bohemia]
seif n. (in full seif dune) a sand-dune in the form of a long narrow
ridge. [Arab. saif sword (from its shape)]
seigneur n. (also seignior) a feudal lord; the lord of a manor. Ьgrand
seigneur a person of high rank or noble presence. ЬЬseigneurial
adj. seigniorial adj. [ME f. OF seigneur, seignor f. L SENIOR]
seigniorage
n. (also seignorage) 1 a a profit made by issuing currency,
esp. by issuing coins rated above their intrinsic value. b
hist. the Crown's right to a percentage on bullion brought to a
mint for coining. 2 hist. something claimed by a sovereign or
feudal superior as a prerogative. [ME f. OF seignorage,
seigneurage (as SEIGNEUR)]
seigniory n. (pl. -ies) 1 lordship, sovereign authority. 2 (also
seigneury) a seigneur's domain. [ME f. OF seignorie (as
SEIGNEUR)]
seine n. & v. --n. (also seine-net) a fishing-net for encircling
fish, with floats at the top and weights at the bottom edge, and
usu. hauled ashore. --v.intr. & tr. fish or catch with a seine.
ЬЬseiner n. [ME f. OF sa‹ne, & OE segne f. WG f. L sagena f. Gk
sagene]
seise var. of SEIZE 9.
seisin n. (also seizin) Law 1 possession of land by freehold. 2 the
act of taking such possession. 3 what is so held. [ME f. AF
sesine, OF seisine, saisine (as SEIZE)]
seismic adj. of or relating to an earthquake or earthquakes. ЬЬseismal
adj. seismical adj. seismically adv. [Gk seismos earthquake
f. seio shake]
seismo- comb. form earthquake. [Gk seismos]
seismogram
n. a record given by a seismograph.
seismograph
n. an instrument that records the force, direction, etc., of
earthquakes. ЬЬseismographic adj. seismographical adj.
seismology
n. the scientific study and recording of earthquakes and
related phenomena. ЬЬseismological adj. seismologically adv.
seismologist n.
seize v. 1 tr. take hold of forcibly or suddenly. 2 tr. take
possession of forcibly (seized the fortress; seized power). 3
tr. take possession of (contraband goods, documents, etc.) by
warrant or legal right, confiscate, impound. 4 tr. affect
suddenly (panic seized us; was seized by apoplexy; was seized
with remorse). 5 tr. take advantage of (an opportunity). 6 tr.
comprehend quickly or clearly. 7 intr. (usu. foll. by on, upon)
a take hold forcibly or suddenly. b take advantage eagerly
(seized on a pretext). 8 intr. (usu. foll. by up) (of a moving
part in a machine) become stuck or jammed from undue heat,
friction, etc. 9 tr. (also seise) (usu. foll. by of) Law put
in possession of. 10 tr. Naut. fasten or attach by binding
with turns of yarn etc. Ьseized (or seised) of 1 possessing
legally. 2 aware or informed of. ЬЬseizable adj. seizer n.
[ME f. OF seizir, saisir give seisin f. Frank. f. L sacire f.
Gmc]
seizin var. of SEISIN.
seizing n. Naut. a cord or cords used for seizing (see SEIZE 10).
seizure n. 1 the act or an instance of seizing; the state of being
seized. 2 a sudden attack of apoplexy etc., a stroke.
sejant adj. (placed after noun) Heraldry (of an animal) sitting
upright on its haunches. [properly seiant f. OF var. of seant
sitting f. seoir f. L sedere sit]
Sekt n. a German sparkling white wine. [G]
selachian n. & adj. --n. any fish of the subclass Selachii, including
sharks and dogfish. --adj. of or relating to this subclass.
[mod.L Selachii f. Gk selakhos shark]
seladang n. a Malayan gaur. [Malay]
selah int. often used at the end of a verse in Psalms and Habakkuk,
supposed to be a musical direction. [Heb. se. lah]
seldom adv. & adj. --adv. rarely, not often. --adj. rare, uncommon.
[OE seldan f. Gmc]
select v. & adj. --v.tr. choose, esp. as the best or most suitable.
--adj. 1 chosen for excellence or suitability; choice. 2 (of a
society etc.) exclusive, cautious in admitting members. Ьselect
committee see COMMITTEE. ЬЬselectable adj. selectness n. [L
seligere select- (as SE-, legere choose)]
selectee n. US a conscript.
selection n. 1 the act or an instance of selecting; the state of being
selected. 2 a selected person or thing. 3 things from which a
choice may be made. 4 Biol. the process in which environmental
and genetic influences determine which types of organism thrive
better than others, regarded as a factor in evolution.
ЬЬselectional adj. selectionally adv. [L selectio (as SELECT)]
selective adj. 1 using or characterized by selection. 2 able to select,
esp. (of a radio receiver) able to respond to a chosen frequency
without interference from others. Ьselective service US hist.
service in the armed forces under conscription. ЬЬselectively
adv. selectiveness n. selectivity n.
selector n. 1 a person who selects, esp. one who selects a
representative team in a sport. 2 a device that selects, esp. a
device in a vehicle that selects the required gear.
selenite n. a form of gypsum occurring as transparent crystals or thin
plates. ЬЬselenitic adj. [L selenites f. Gk selenites lithos
moonstone f. selene moon]
selenium n. Chem. a non-metallic element occurring naturally in various
metallic sulphide ores and characterized by the variation of its
electrical resistivity with intensity of illumination. °Symb.:
Se. Ьselenium cell a piece of this used as a photoelectric
device. ЬЬselenate n. selenic adj. selenious adj. [mod.L f.
Gk selene moon + -IUM]
seleno- comb. form moon. [Gk selene moon]
selenography
n. the study or mapping of the moon. ЬЬselenographer n.
selenographic adj.
selenology
n. the scientific study of the moon. ЬЬselenologist n.
self n. & adj. --n. (pl. selves) 1 a person's or thing's own
individuality or essence (showed his true self). 2 a person or
thing as the object of introspection or reflexive action (the
consciousness of self). 3 a one's own interests or pleasure
(cares for nothing but self). b concentration on these (self is
a bad guide to happiness). 4 Commerce or colloq. myself,
yourself, himself, etc. (cheque drawn to self; ticket admitting
self and friend). 5 used in phrases equivalent to myself,
yourself, himself, etc. (his very self; your good selves). 6
(pl. selfs) a flower of uniform colour, or of the natural wild
colour. --adj. 1 of the same colour as the rest or throughout.
2 (of a flower) of the natural wild colour. 3 (of colour)
uniform, the same throughout. Ьone's better self one's nobler
impulses. one's former (or old) self oneself as one formerly
was. [OE f. Gmc]
self- comb. form expressing reflexive action: 1 of or directed towards
oneself or itself (self-respect; self-cleaning). 2 by oneself
or itself, esp. without external agency (self-evident). 3 on,
in, for, or relating to oneself or itself (self-absorbed;
self-confident).
self-abandon
n. (also self-abandonment) the abandonment of oneself, esp. to
passion or an impulse. ЬЬself-abandoned adj.
self-abasement
n. the abasement of oneself; self-humiliation; cringing.
self-abhorrence
n. the abhorrence of oneself; self-hatred.
self-abnegation
n. the abnegation of oneself, one's interests, needs, etc.;
self-sacrifice.
self-absorption
n. 1 absorption in oneself. 2 Physics the absorption, by a
body, of radiation emitted within it. ЬЬself-absorbed adj.
self-abuse
n. 1 the reviling or abuse of oneself. 2 archaic masturbation.
self-accusation
n. the accusing of oneself. ЬЬself-accusatory adj.
self-acting
adj. acting without external influence or control; automatic.
ЬЬself-action n. self-activity n.
self-addressed
adj. (of an envelope etc.) having one's own address on for
return communication.
self-adhesive
adj. (of an envelope, label, etc.) adhesive, esp. without being
moistened.
self-adjusting
adj. (of machinery etc.) adjusting itself. ЬЬself-adjustment
n.
self-admiration
n. the admiration of oneself; pride; conceit.
self-advancement
n. the advancement of oneself.
self-advertisement
n. the advertising or promotion of oneself. ЬЬself-advertiser
n.
self-affirmation
n. Psychol. the recognition and assertion of the existence of
the conscious self.
self-aggrandizement
n. the act or process of enriching oneself or making oneself
powerful. ЬЬself-aggrandizing adj.
self-analysis
n. Psychol. the analysis of oneself, one's motives, character,
etc. ЬЬself-analysing adj.
self-appointed
adj. designated so by oneself, not authorized by another (a
self-appointed guardian).
self-appreciation
n. a good opinion of oneself; conceit.
self-approbation
n. = SELF-APPRECIATION.
self-approval
n. = SELF-APPRECIATION.
self-assertion
n. the aggressive promotion of oneself, one's views, etc.
ЬЬself-asserting adj. self-assertive adj. self-assertiveness
n.
self-assurance
n. confidence in one's own abilities etc. ЬЬself-assured adj.
self-assuredly adv.
self-aware
adj. conscious of one's character, feelings, motives, etc.
ЬЬself-awareness n.
self-begotten
adj. produced by oneself or itself; not made externally.
self-betrayal
n. 1 the betrayal of oneself. 2 the inadvertent revelation of
one's true thoughts etc.
self-binder
n. a reaping machine with an automatic mechanism for binding
the sheaves.
self-born adj. produced by itself or oneself; not made externally.
self-catering
adj. (esp. of a holiday or holiday premises) providing rented
accommodation with cooking facilities but without food.
self-censorship
n. the censoring of oneself.
self-centred
adj. preoccupied with one's own personality or affairs.
ЬЬself-centredly adv. self-centredness n.
self-certification
n. the practice by which an employee declares in writing that
an absence from work was due to illness.
self-cleaning
adj. (esp. of an oven) cleaning itself when heated etc.
self-closing
adj. (of a door etc.) closing automatically.
self-cocking
adj. (of a gun) with the hammer raised by the trigger, not by
hand.
self-coloured
adj. 1 a having the same colour throughout (buttons and belt
are self-coloured). b (of material) natural; undyed. 2 a (of a
flower) of uniform colour. b having its colour unchanged by
cultivation or hybridization.
self-command
n. = SELF-CONTROL.
self-communion
n. meditation upon one's own character, conduct, etc.
self-conceit
n. = SELF-SATISFACTION. ЬЬself-conceited adj.
self-condemnation
n. 1 the blaming of oneself. 2 the inadvertent revelation of
one's own sin, crime, etc. ЬЬself-condemned adj.
self-confessed
adj. openly admitting oneself to be (a self-confessed thief).
self-confidence
n. = SELF-ASSURANCE. ЬЬself-confident adj. self-confidently
adv.
self-congratulation
n. = SELF-SATISFACTION. ЬЬself-congratulatory adj.
self-conquest
n. the overcoming of one's worst characteristics etc.
self-conscious
adj. 1 socially inept through embarrassment or shyness. 2
Philos. having knowledge of one's own existence;
self-contemplating. ЬЬself-consciously adv. self-consciousness
n.
self-consistent
adj. (of parts of the same whole etc.) consistent; not
conflicting. ЬЬself-consistency n.
self-constituted
adj. (of a person, group, etc.) assuming a function without
authorization or right; self-appointed.
self-contained
adj. 1 (of a person) uncommunicative; independent. 2 Brit.
(esp. of living-accommodation) complete in itself.
ЬЬself-containment n.
self-contempt
n. contempt for oneself. ЬЬself-contemptuous adj.
self-content
n. satisfaction with oneself, one's life, achievements, etc.
ЬЬself-contented adj.
self-contradiction
n. internal inconsistency. ЬЬself-contradictory adj.
self-control
n. the power of controlling one's external reactions, emotions,
etc. ЬЬself-controlled adj.
self-convicted
adj. = SELF-CONDEMNED (see SELF-CONDEMNATION).
self-correcting
adj. correcting itself without external help.
self-created
adj. created by oneself or itself. ЬЬself-creation n.
self-critical
adj. critical of oneself, one's abilities, etc.
ЬЬself-criticism n.
self-deception
n. deceiving oneself esp. concerning one's true feelings etc.
ЬЬself-deceit n. self-deceiver n. self-deceiving adj.
self-deceptive adj.
self-defeating
adj. (of an attempt, action, etc.) doomed to failure because of
internal inconsistencies etc.
self-defence
n. 1 an aggressive act, speech, etc., intended as defence (had
to hit him in self-defence). 2 (usu. the noble art of
self-defence) boxing. ЬЬself-defensive adj.
self-delight
n. delight in oneself or one's existence.
self-delusion
n. the act or an instance of deluding oneself.
self-denial
n. = SELF-ABNEGATION. Ьself-denying ordinance hist. a
resolution of the Long Parliament 1645 depriving Members of
Parliament of civil and military office. ЬЬself-denying adj.
self-dependence
adj. dependence only on oneself or itself; independence.
ЬЬself-dependent adj.
self-deprecation
n. the act of disparaging or belittling oneself.
ЬЬself-deprecating adj. self-deprecatingly adv.
self-despair
n. despair with oneself.
self-destroying
adj. destroying oneself or itself.
self-destruct
v. & adj. esp. US --v.intr. (of a spacecraft, bomb, etc.)
explode or disintegrate automatically, esp. when pre-set to do
so. --attrib.adj. enabling a thing to self-destruct (a
self-destruct device).
self-destruction
n. 1 the process or an act of destroying oneself or itself. 2
esp. US the process or an act of self-destructing.
ЬЬself-destructive adj. self-destructively adv.
self-determination
n. 1 a nation's right to determine its own allegiance,
government, etc. 2 the ability to act with free will, as
opposed to fatalism etc. ЬЬself-determined adj.
self-determining adj.
self-development
n. the development of oneself, one's abilities, etc.
self-devotion
n. the devotion of oneself to a person or cause.
self-discipline
n. the act of or ability to apply oneself, control one's
feelings, etc.; self-control. ЬЬself-disciplined adj.
self-discovery
n. the process of acquiring insight into oneself, one's
character, desires, etc.
self-disgust
n. disgust with oneself.
self-doubt
n. lack of confidence in oneself, one's abilities, etc.
self-drive
adj. (of a hired vehicle) driven by the hirer.
self-educated
adj. educated by oneself by reading etc., without formal
instruction. ЬЬself-education n.
self-effacing
adj. retiring; modest; timid. ЬЬself-effacement n.
self-effacingly adv.
self-elective
adj. (of a committee etc.) proceeding esp. by co-opting members
etc.
self-employed
adj. working for oneself, as a freelance or owner of a business
etc.; not employed by an employer. ЬЬself-employment n.
self-esteem
n. a good opinion of oneself.
self-evident
adj. obvious; without the need of evidence or further
explanation. ЬЬself-evidence n. self-evidently adv.
self-examination
n. 1 the study of one's own conduct, reasons, etc. 2 the
examining of one's body for signs of illness etc.
self-executing
adj. Law (of a law, legal clause, etc.) not needing legislation
etc. to be enforced; automatic.
self-existent
adj. existing without prior cause; independent.
self-explanatory
adj. easily understood; not needing explanation.
self-expression
n. the expression of one's feelings, thoughts, etc., esp. in
writing, painting, music, etc. ЬЬself-expressive adj.
self-faced
adj. (of stone) unhewn; undressed.
self-feeder
n. 1 a furnace, machine, etc., that renews its own fuel or
material automatically. 2 a device for supplying food to farm
animals automatically. ЬЬself-feeding adj.
self-fertile
adj. (of a plant etc.) self-fertilizing. ЬЬself-fertility n.
self-fertilization
n. the fertilization of plants by their own pollen, not from
others. ЬЬself-fertilized adj. self-fertilizing adj.
self-financing
adj. that finances itself, esp. (of a project or undertaking)
that pays for its own implementation or continuation.
ЬЬself-finance v.tr.
self-flattery
n. = SELF-APPRECIATION. ЬЬself-flattering adj.
self-forgetful
adj. unselfish. ЬЬself-forgetfulness n.
self-fulfilling
adj. (of a prophecy, forecast, etc.) bound to come true as a
result of actions brought about by its being made.
self-fulfilment
n. (US -fulfillment) the fulfilment of one's own hopes and
ambitions.
self-generating
adj. generated by itself or oneself, not externally.
self-glorification
n. the proclamation of oneself, one's abilities, etc.;
self-satisfaction.
self-government
n. 1 (esp. of a former colony etc.) government by its own
people. 2 = SELF-CONTROL. ЬЬself-governed adj. self-governing
adj.
self-hate n. = SELF-HATRED.
self-hatred
n. hatred of oneself, esp. of one's actual self when contrasted
with one's imagined self.
self-heal n. any of several plants, esp. Prunella vulgaris, believed to
have healing properties.
self-help n. 1 the theory that individuals should provide for their own
support and improvement in society. 2 the act or faculty of
providing for or improving oneself.
selfhood n. personality, separate and conscious existence.
self-image
n. one's own idea or picture of oneself, esp. in relation to
others.
self-importance
n. a high opinion of oneself; pompousness. ЬЬself-important
adj. self-importantly adv.
self-imposed
adj. (of a task or condition etc.) imposed on and by oneself,
not externally (self-imposed exile).
self-improvement
n. the improvement of one's own position or disposition by
one's own efforts.
self-induced
adj. 1 induced by oneself or itself. 2 Electr. produced by
self-induction.
self-inductance
n. Electr. the property of an electric circuit that causes an
electromotive force to be generated in it by a change in the
current flowing through it (cf. mutual inductance).
self-induction
n. Electr. the production of an electromotive force in a
circuit when the current in that circuit is varied.
ЬЬself-inductive adj.
self-indulgent
adj. indulging or tending to indulge oneself in pleasure,
idleness, etc. ЬЬself-indulgence n. self-indulgently adv.
self-inflicted
adj. (esp. of a wound, damage, etc.) inflicted by and on
oneself, not externally.
self-interest
n. one's personal interest or advantage. ЬЬself-interested
adj.
selfish adj. 1 deficient in consideration for others; concerned chiefly
with one's own personal profit or pleasure; actuated by
self-interest. 2 (of a motive etc.) appealing to self-interest.
ЬЬselfishly adv. selfishness n.
self-justification
n. the justification or excusing of oneself, one's actions,
etc.
self-knowledge
n. the understanding of oneself, one's motives, etc.
selfless adj. disregarding oneself or one's own interests; unselfish.
ЬЬselflessly adv. selflessness n.
self-loading
adj. (esp. of a gun) loading itself. ЬЬself-loader n.
self-locking
adj. locking itself.
self-love n. 1 selfishness; self-indulgence. 2 Philos. regard for one's
own well-being and happiness.
self-made adj. 1 successful or rich by one's own effort. 2 made by
oneself.
self-mastery
n. = SELF-CONTROL.
selfmate n. Chess checkmate in which a player forces the opponent to
achieve checkmate.
self-mocking
adj. mocking oneself or itself.
self-motion
n. motion caused by oneself or itself, not externally.
ЬЬself-moving adj.
self-motivated
adj. acting on one's own initiative without external pressure.
ЬЬself-motivation n.
self-murder
n. = SUICIDE. ЬЬself-murderer n.
self-neglect
n. neglect of oneself.
selfness n. 1 individuality, personality, essence. 2 selfishness or
self-regard.
self-opinionated
adj. 1 stubbornly adhering to one's own opinions. 2 arrogant.
ЬЬself-opinion n.
self-perpetuating
adj. perpetuating itself or oneself without external agency.
ЬЬself-perpetuation n.
self-pity n. extreme sorrow for one's own troubles etc. ЬЬself-pitying
adj. self-pityingly adv.
self-pollination
n. the pollination of a flower by pollen from the same plant.
ЬЬself-pollinated adj. self-pollinating adj. self-pollinator
n.
self-portrait
n. a portrait or description of an artist, writer, etc., by
himself or herself.
self-possessed
adj. habitually exercising self-control; composed.
ЬЬself-possession n.
self-praise
n. boasting; self-glorification.
self-preservation
n. 1 the preservation of one's own life, safety, etc. 2 this
as a basic instinct of human beings and animals.
self-proclaimed
adj. proclaimed by oneself or itself to be such.
self-propagating
adj. (esp. of a plant) able to propagate itself.
self-propelled
adj. (esp. of a motor vehicle etc.) moving or able to move
without external propulsion. ЬЬself-propelling adj.
self-protection
n. protecting oneself or itself. ЬЬself-protective adj.
self-raising
adj. Brit. (of flour) having a raising agent already added.
self-realization
n. 1 the development of one's faculties, abilities, etc. 2
this as an ethical principle.
self-recording
adj. (of a scientific instrument etc.) automatically recording
its measurements.
self-regard
n. 1 a proper regard for oneself. 2 a selfishness. b conceit.
self-registering
adj. (of a scientific instrument etc.) automatically
registering its measurements.
self-regulating
adj. regulating oneself or itself without intervention.
ЬЬself-regulation n. self-regulatory adj.
self-reliance
n. reliance on one's own resources etc.; independence.
ЬЬself-reliant adj. self-reliantly adv.
self-renewal
n. the act or process of renewing oneself or itself.
self-renunciation
n. 1 = SELF-SACRIFICE. 2 unselfishness.
self-reproach
n. reproach or blame directed at oneself. ЬЬself-reproachful
adj.
self-respect
n. respect for oneself, a feeling that one is behaving with
honour, dignity, etc. ЬЬself-respecting adj.
self-restraint
n. = SELF-CONTROL. ЬЬself-restrained adj.
self-righteous
adj. excessively conscious of or insistent on one's rectitude,
correctness, etc. ЬЬself-righteously adv. self-righteousness
n.
self-righting
adj. (of a boat) righting itself when capsized.
self-rising
adj. US = SELF-RAISING.
self-rule n. = SELF-GOVERNMENT 1.
self-sacrifice
n. the negation of one's own interests, wishes, etc., in favour
of those of others. ЬЬself-sacrificing adj.
selfsame attrib.adj. (prec. by the) the very same (the selfsame
village).
self-satisfaction
n. excessive and unwarranted satisfaction with oneself, one's
achievements, etc.; complacency. ЬЬself-satisfied adj.
self-satisfiedly adv.
self-sealing
adj. 1 (of a pneumatic tyre, fuel tank, etc.) automatically
able to seal small punctures. 2 (of an envelope) self-adhesive.
self-seeking
adj. & n. seeking one's own welfare before that of others.
ЬЬself-seeker n.
self-selection
n. the act of selecting oneself or itself. ЬЬself-selecting
adj.
self-service
adj. & n. --adj. (often attrib.) 1 (of a shop, restaurant,
garage, etc.) where customers serve themselves and pay at a
checkout counter etc. 2 (of a machine) serving goods after the
insertion of coins. --n. colloq. a self-service store, garage,
etc.
self-serving
adj. = SELF-SEEKING.
self-slaughter
n. = SUICIDE.
self-sown adj. grown from seed scattered naturally.
self-starter
n. 1 an electric appliance for starting a motor vehicle engine
without the use of a crank. 2 an ambitious person who needs no
external motivation.
self-sterile
adj. Biol. not being self-fertile. ЬЬself-sterility n.
self-styled
adj. called so by oneself; would-be; pretended (a self-styled
artist).
self-sufficient
adj. 1 a needing nothing; independent. b (of a person, nation,
etc.) able to supply one's needs for a commodity, esp. food,
from one's own resources. 2 content with one's own opinion;
arrogant. ЬЬself-sufficiency n. self-sufficiently adv.
self-sufficing adj.
self-suggestion
n. = AUTO-SUGGESTION.
self-supporting
adj. 1 capable of maintaining oneself or itself financially. 2
staying up or standing without external aid. ЬЬself-support n.
self-surrender
n. the surrender of oneself or one's will etc. to an influence,
emotion, or other person.
self-sustaining
adj. sustaining oneself or itself. ЬЬself-sustained adj.
self-taught
adj. educated or trained by oneself, not externally.
self-torture
n. the inflicting of pain, esp. mental, on oneself.
self-willed
adj. obstinately pursuing one's own wishes. ЬЬself-will n.
self-winding
adj. (of a watch etc.) having an automatic winding apparatus.
self-worth
n. = SELF-ESTEEM.
Seljuk n. & adj. --n. a member of any of the Turkish dynasties
(11th-13th c.) of central and western Asia preceding Ottoman
rule. --adj. of or relating to the Seljuks. ЬЬSeljukian adj. &
n. [Turk. seljuq (name of their reputed ancestor)]
sell v. & n. --v. (past and past part. sold) 1 tr. make over or
dispose of in exchange for money. 2 tr. keep a stock of for
sale or be a dealer in (do you sell candles?). 3 intr. (of
goods) be purchased (will never sell; these are selling well).
4 intr. (foll. by at, for) have a specified price (sells at њ5).
5 tr. betray for money or other reward (sell one's country). 6
tr. offer dishonourably for money or other consideration; make a
matter of corrupt bargaining (sell justice; sell oneself; sell
one's honour). 7 tr. a advertise or publish the merits of. b
give (a person) information on the value of something, inspire
with a desire to buy or acquire or agree to something. 8 tr.
cause to be sold (the author's name alone will sell many
copies). 9 tr. sl. disappoint by not keeping an engagement
etc., by failing in some way, or by trickery (sold again!).
--n. colloq. 1 a manner of selling (soft sell). 2 a deception
or disappointment. Ьsell-by date the latest recommended date of
sale marked on the packaging of esp. perishable food. sell down
the river see RIVER. sell the (or a) dummy see DUMMY.
selling-point an advantageous feature. selling-race a
horse-race after which the winning horse must be auctioned.
sell one's life dear (or dearly) do great injury before being
killed. sell off sell the remainder of (goods) at reduced
prices. sell out 1 a sell all one's stock-in-trade, one's
shares in a company, etc. b sell (all or some of one's stock,
shares, etc.). 2 a betray. b be treacherous or disloyal.
sell-out n. 1 a commercial success, esp. the selling of all
tickets for a show. 2 a betrayal. sell the pass see PASS(2).
sell a pup see PUP. sell short disparage, underestimate. sell
up Brit. 1 sell one's business, house, etc. 2 sell the goods
of (a debtor). sold on colloq. enthusiastic about. ЬЬsellable
adj. [OE sellan f. Gmc]
seller n. 1 a person who sells. 2 a commodity that sells well or
badly. Ьseller's (or sellers') market an economic position in
which goods are scarce and expensive.
Sellotape n. & v. --n. propr. adhesive usu. transparent cellulose or
plastic tape. --v.tr. (sellotape) fix with Sellotape.
[CELLULOSE + TAPE]
seltzer n. (in full seltzer water) 1 medicinal mineral water from
Nieder-Selters in Germany. 2 an artificial substitute for this;
soda water. [G Selterser (adj.) f. Selters]
selvage n. (also selvedge) 1 a an edging that prevents cloth from
unravelling (either an edge along the warp or a specially woven
edging). b a border of different material or finish intended to
be removed or hidden. 2 Geol. an alteration zone at the edge of
a rock mass. 3 the edge-plate of a lock with an opening for the
bolt. [ME f. SELF + EDGE, after Du. selfegghe]
selves pl. of SELF.
semanteme n. Linguistics a fundamental element expressing an image or
idea. [F s‚mantЉme (as SEMANTIC)]
semantic adj. relating to meaning in language; relating to the
connotations of words. ЬЬsemantically adv. [F s‚mantique f. Gk
semantikos significant f. semaino signify f. sema sign]
semantics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) the branch of linguistics
concerned with meaning. ЬЬsemantician n. semanticist n.
semaphore n. & v. --n. 1 Mil. etc. a system of sending messages by
holding the arms or two flags in certain positions according to
an alphabetic code. 2 a signalling apparatus consisting of a
post with a movable arm or arms, lanterns, etc., for use (esp.
on railways) by day or night. --v.intr. & tr. signal or send by
semaphore. ЬЬsemaphoric adj. semaphorically adv. [F
s‚maphore, irreg. f. Gk sema sign + -phoros -PHORE]
semasiology
n. semantics. ЬЬsemasiological adj. [G Semasiologie f. Gk
semasia meaning f. semaino signify]
sematic adj. Zool. (of colouring, markings, etc.) significant; serving
to warn off enemies or attract attention. [Gk sema sematos
sign]
semblable n. & adj. --n. a counterpart or equal. --adj. archaic having
the semblance of something, seeming. [ME f. OF (as SEMBLANCE)]
semblance n. 1 the outward or superficial appearance of something (put on
a semblance of anger). 2 resemblance. [ME f. OF f. sembler f.
L similare, simulare SIMULATE]
sem‚ adj. (also sem‚e) Heraldry covered with small bearings of
indefinite number (e.g. stars, fleurs-de-lis) arranged all over
the field. [F, past part. of semer to sow]
semeiology
var. of SEMIOLOGY.
semeiotics
var. of SEMIOTICS.
sememe n. Linguistics the unit of meaning carried by a morpheme. [as
SEMANTIC]
semen n. the reproductive fluid of male animals, containing
spermatozoa in suspension. [ME f. L semen seminis seed f.
serere to sow]
semester n. a half-year course or term in (esp. German and US)
universities. [G f. L semestris six-monthly f. sex six +
mensis month]
semi n. (pl. semis) colloq. 1 Brit. a semi-detached house. 2 US a
semi-trailer. [abbr.]
semi- prefix 1 half (semicircle). 2 partly; in some degree or
particular (semi-official; semi-detached). 3 almost (a
semi-smile). 4 occurring or appearing twice in a specified
period (semi-annual). [F, It., etc. or L, corresp. to Gk HEMI-,
Skr. sami]
semi-annual
adj. occurring, published, etc., twice a year. ЬЬsemi-annually
adv.
semi-automatic
adj. 1 partially automatic. 2 (of a firearm) having a
mechanism for continuous loading but not for continuous firing.
semi-basement
n. a storey partly below ground level.
semi-bold adj. Printing printed in a type darker than normal but not as
dark as bold.
semibreve n. Mus. the longest note now in common use, having the time
value of two minims or four crochets, and represented by a ring
with no stem. Also called whole note.
semicircle
n. 1 half of a circle or of its circumference. 2 a set of
objects ranged in, or an object forming, a semicircle. [L
semicirculus (as SEMI-, CIRCLE)]
semicircular
adj. 1 forming or shaped like a semicircle. 2 arranged as or
in a semicircle. Ьsemicircular canal one of three fluid-filled
channels in the ear giving information to the brain to help
maintain balance. [LL semicircularis (as SEMICIRCLE)]
semi-civilized
adj. partially civilized.
semicolon n. a punctuation mark (;) of intermediate value between a comma
and full stop.
semiconducting
adj. having the properties of a semiconductor.
semiconductor
n. a solid substance that is a non-conductor when pure or at a
low temperature but has a conductivity between that of
insulators and that of most metals when containing a suitable
impurity or at a higher temperature and is used in integrated
circuits, transistors, diodes, etc.
semi-conscious
adj. partly or imperfectly conscious.
semicylinder
n. half of a cylinder cut longitudinally. ЬЬsemicylindrical
adj.
semidemisemiquaver
n. Mus. = HEMIDEMISEMIQUAVER. [SEMI- + DEMISEMIQUAVER]
semi-deponent
adj. Gram. (of a Latin verb) having active forms in present
tenses and passive forms with active sense in perfect tenses.
semi-detached
adj. & n. --adj. (of a house) joined to another by a party-wall
on one side only. --n. a semi-detached house.
semidiameter
n. half of a diameter. [LL (as SEMI-, DIAMETER)]
semi-documentary
adj. & n. --adj. (of a film) having a factual background and a
fictitious story. --n. (pl. -ies) a semi-documentary film.
semi-dome n. 1 a half-dome formed by vertical section. 2 a part of a
structure more or less resembling a dome.
semi-double
adj. (of a flower) intermediate between single and double in
having only the outer stamens converted to petals.
semifinal n. a match or round immediately preceding the final.
semifinalist
n. a competitor in a semifinal.
semi-finished
adj. prepared for the final stage of manufacture.
semi-fitted
adj. (of a garment) shaped to the body but not closely fitted.
semifluid adj. & n. --adj. of a consistency between solid and liquid.
--n. a semifluid substance.
semi-infinite
adj. Math. limited in one direction and stretching to infinity
in the other.
semi-invalid
n. a person somewhat enfeebled or partially disabled.
semi-liquid
adj. & n. = SEMIFLUID.
semi-lunar
adj. shaped like a half moon or crescent. Ьsemi-lunar bone a
bone of this shape in the carpus. semi-lunar cartilage a
cartilage of this shape in the knee. semi-lunar valve a valve
of this shape in the heart. [mod.L semilunaris (as SEMI-,
LUNAR)]
semi-metal
n. a substance with some of the properties of metals. [mod.L
semimetallum (as SEMI-, METAL)]
semi-monthly
adj. & adv. --adj. occurring, published, etc., twice a month.
--adv. twice a month.
seminal adj. 1 of or relating to seed, semen, or reproduction. 2
germinal. 3 rudimentary, undeveloped. 4 (of ideas etc.)
providing the basis for future development. Ьseminal fluid
semen. ЬЬseminally adv. [ME f. OF seminal or L seminalis (as
SEMEN)]
seminar n. 1 a small class at a university etc. for discussion and
research. 2 a short intensive course of study. 3 a conference
of specialists. [G (as SEMINARY)]
seminary n. (pl. -ies) 1 a training-college for priests, rabbis, etc.
2 a place of education or development. ЬЬseminarist n. [ME f.
L seminarium seed-plot, neut. of seminarius (adj.) (as SEMEN)]
semi-official
adj. 1 partly official; rather less than official. 2 (of
communications to newspapers etc.) made by an official with the
stipulation that the source should not be revealed.
ЬЬsemi-officially adv.
semiology n. (also semeiology) = SEMIOTICS. ЬЬsemiological adj.
semiologist n. [Gk semeion sign f. sema mark]
semi-opaque
adj. not fully transparent.
semiotics n. (also semeiotics) 1 the study of signs and symbols in
various fields, esp. language. 2 Med. symptomatology.
ЬЬsemiotic adj. semiotical adj. semiotically adv. semiotician
n. [Gk semeiotikos of signs (as SEMIOLOGY)]
semi-permanent
adj. rather less than permanent.
semi-permeable
adj. (of a membrane etc.) allowing small molecules, but not
large ones, to pass through.
semi-plume
n. a feather with a firm stem but a downy web.
semiprecious
adj. (of a gem) less valuable than a precious stone.
semi-pro adj. & n. (pl. -os) US colloq. = SEMI-PROFESSIONAL.
semi-professional
adj. & n. --adj. 1 receiving payment for an activity but not
relying on it for a living. 2 involving semi-professionals.
--n. a semi-professional musician, sportsman, etc.
semiquaver
n. Mus. a note having the time value of half a quaver and
represented by a large dot with a two-hooked stem. Also called
sixteenth note.
semi-rigid
adj. (of an airship) having a stiffened keel attached to a
flexible gas container.
semi-skilled
adj. (of work or a worker) having or needing some training but
less than for a skilled worker.
semi-smile
n. an expression that is not quite a smile.
semi-synthetic
adj. Chem. (of a substance) that is prepared synthetically but
derives from a naturally occurring material.
Semite n. a member of any of the peoples supposed to be descended from
Shem, son of Noah (Gen. 10:21 ff.), including esp. the Jews,
Arabs, Assyrians, and Phoenicians. ЬЬSemitism n. Semitist n.
Semitize v.tr. (also -ise). Semitization n. [mod.L Semita f.
LL f. Gk Sem Shem]
Semitic adj. 1 of or relating to the Semites, esp. the Jews. 2 of or
relating to the languages of the family including Hebrew and
Arabic. [mod.L Semiticus (as SEMITE)]
semitone n. Mus. the smallest interval used in classical European
music; half a tone.
semi-trailer
n. a trailer having wheels at the back but supported at the
front by a towing vehicle.
semi-transparent
adj. partially or imperfectly transparent.
semi-vowel
n. 1 a sound intermediate between a vowel and a consonant (e.g.
w, y). 2 a letter representing this. [after L semivocalis]
semi-weekly
adj. & adv. --adj. occurring, published, etc., twice a week.
--adv. twice a week.
semmit n. Sc. an undershirt. [ME: orig. unkn.]
semolina n. 1 the hard grains left after the milling of flour, used in
puddings etc. and in pasta. 2 a pudding etc. made of this.
[It. semolino dimin. of semola bran f. L simila flour]
sempiternal
adj. rhet. eternal, everlasting. ЬЬsempiternally adv.
sempiternity n. [ME f. OF sempiternel f. LL sempiternalis f. L
sempiternus f. semper always + aeternus eternal]
semplice adv. Mus. in a simple style of performance. [It., = SIMPLE]
sempre adv. Mus. throughout, always (sempre forte). [It.]
sempstress
var. of SEAMSTRESS.
SEN abbr. (in the UK) State Enrolled Nurse.
Sen. abbr. 1 Senior. 2 US a Senator. b Senate.
senarius n. (pl. senarii) Prosody a verse of six feet, esp. an iambic
trimeter. [L: see SENARY]
senary adj. of six, by sixes. [L senarius f. seni distrib. of sex
six]
senate n. 1 a legislative body, esp. the upper and smaller assembly in
the US, France, and other countries, in the States of the US,
etc. 2 the governing body of a university or (in the US) a
college. 3 Rom.Hist. the State council of the republic and
empire sharing legislative power with the popular assemblies,
administration with the magistrates, and judicial power with the
knights. [ME f. OF senat f. L senatus f. senex old man]
senator n. 1 a member of a senate. 2 (in Scotland) a Lord of Session.
ЬЬsenatorial adj. senatorship n. [ME f. OF senateur f. L
senator -oris (as SENATE)]
send v. (past and past part. sent) 1 tr. a order or cause to go or
be conveyed (send a message to headquarters; sent me a book;
sends goods all over the world). b propel; cause to move (send
a bullet; sent him flying). c cause to go or become (send into
raptures; send to sleep). d dismiss with or without force (sent
her away; sent him about his business). 2 intr. send a message
or letter (he sent to warn me). 3 tr. (of God, providence,
etc.) grant or bestow or inflict; bring about; cause to be (send
rain; send a judgement; send her victorious!). 4 tr. sl.
affect emotionally, put into ecstasy. Ьsend away for send an
order to a dealer for (goods). send down Brit. 1 rusticate or
expel from a university. 2 sentence to imprisonment. 3 Cricket
bowl (a ball or an over). send for 1 summon. 2 order by post.
send in 1 cause to go in. 2 submit (an entry etc.) for a
competition etc. send off 1 get (a letter, parcel, etc.)
dispatched. 2 attend the departure of (a person) as a sign of
respect etc. 3 Sport (of a referee) order (a player) to leave
the field and take no further part in the game. send-off n. a
demonstration of goodwill etc. at the departure of a person, the
start of a project, etc. send off for = send away for. send on
transmit to a further destination or in advance of one's own
arrival. send a person to Coventry see COVENTRY. send up 1
cause to go up. 2 transmit to a higher authority. 3 Brit.
colloq. satirize or ridicule, esp. by mimicking. 4 US sentence
to imprisonment. send-up n. Brit. colloq. a satire or
parody. send word send information. ЬЬsendable adj. sender n.
[OE sendan f. Gmc]
sendal n. hist. 1 a thin rich silk material. 2 a garment of this.
[ME f. OF cendal, ult. f. Gk sindon]
senecio n. any composite plant of the genus Senecio, including many
cultivated species as well as groundsel and ragwort. [L senecio
old man, groundsel, with ref. to the hairy fruits]
senesce v.intr. grow old. ЬЬsenescence n. senescent adj. [L
senescere f. senex old]
seneschal n. 1 the steward or major-domo of a medieval great house. 2 a
judge in Sark. [ME f. OF f. med.L seniscalus f. Gmc, = old
servant]
senhor n. a title used of or to a Portuguese or Brazilian man. [Port.
f. L senior: see SENIOR]
senhora n. a title used of or to a Portuguese woman or a Brazilian
married woman. [Port., fem. of SENHOR]
senhorita n. a title used of or to a Brazilian unmarried woman. [Port.,
dimin. of SENHORA]
senile adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or characteristic of old age (senile
apathy; senile decay). 2 having the weaknesses or diseases of
old age. --n. a senile person. ЬЬsenility n. [F s‚nile or L
senilis f. senex old man]
senior adj. & n. --adj. 1 (often foll. by to) more or most advanced
in age or standing. 2 of high or highest position. 3 (placed
after a person's name) senior to another of the same name. 4
(of a school) having pupils in an older age-range (esp. over
11). 5 US of the final year at a university, high school, etc.
--n. 1 a person of advanced age or comparatively long service
etc. 2 one's elder, or one's superior in length of service,
membership, etc. (is my senior). 3 a senior student. Ьsenior
citizen an elderly person, esp. an old-age pensioner. senior
college US a college in which the last two years' work for a
bachelor's degree is done. senior common (or combination) room
Brit. a room for use by senior members of a college. senior
nursing officer the person in charge of nursing services in a
hospital. senior officer an officer to whom a junior is
responsible. senior partner the head of a firm. senior service
Brit. the Royal Navy as opposed to the Army. senior tutor
Brit. a college tutor in charge of the teaching arrangements.
ЬЬseniority n. [ME f. L, = older, older man, compar. of senex
senis old man, old]
senna n. 1 a cassia tree. 2 a laxative prepared from the dried pod
of this. [med.L sena f. Arab. sana]
sennet(1) n. hist. a signal call on a trumpet or cornet (in the stage
directions of Elizabethan plays). [perh. var. of SIGNET]
sennet(2) var. of SINNET.
sennight n. archaic a week. [OE seofon nihta seven nights]
sennit n. 1 hist. plaited straw, palm leaves, etc., used for making
hats. 2 = SINNET. [var. of SINNET]
se¤or n. (pl. se¤ores) a title used of or to a Spanish-speaking man.
[Sp. f. L senior: see SENIOR]
se¤ora n. a title used of or to a Spanish-speaking married woman.
[Sp., fem. of SEҐOR]
se¤orita n. a title used of or to a Spanish-speaking unmarried woman.
[Sp., dimin. of SEҐORA]
Senr. abbr. Senior.
sensate adj. perceived by the senses. [LL sensatus having senses (as
SENSE)]
sensation n. 1 the consciousness of perceiving or seeming to perceive
some state or condition of one's body or its parts or senses or
of one's mind or its emotions; an instance of such consciousness
(lost all sensation in my left arm; had a sensation of
giddiness; a sensation of pride; in search of a new sensation).
2 a a stirring of emotions or intense interest esp. among a
large group of people (the news caused a sensation). b a
person, event, etc., causing such interest. 3 the sensational
use of literary etc. material. [med.L sensatio f. L sensus
SENSE]
sensational
adj. 1 causing or intended to cause great public excitement
etc. 2 of or causing sensation. ЬЬsensationally adv.
sensationalism
n. 1 the use of or interest in the sensational in literature,
political agitation, etc. 2 Philos. the theory that ideas are
derived solely from sensation (opp. RATIONALISM).
ЬЬsensationalist n. & adj. sensationalistic adj.
sense n. & v. --n. 1 a any of the special bodily faculties by which
sensation is roused (has keen senses; has a dull sense of
smell). b sensitiveness of all or any of these. 2 the ability
to perceive or feel or to be conscious of the presence or
properties of things. 3 (foll. by of) consciousness (sense of
having done well; sense of one's own importance). 4 (often
foll. by of) a quick or accurate appreciation, understanding, or
instinct regarding a specified matter (sense of the ridiculous;
road sense; the moral sense). b the habit of basing one's
conduct on such instinct. 5 practical wisdom or judgement,
common sense; conformity to these (has plenty of sense; what is
the sense of talking like that?; has more sense than to do
that). 6 a a meaning; the way in which a word etc. is to be
understood (the sense of the word is clear; I mean that in the
literal sense). b intelligibility or coherence or possession of
a meaning. 7 the prevailing opinion among a number of people.
8 (in pl.) a person's sanity or normal state of mind. 9 Math.
etc. a a direction of movement. b that which distinguishes a
pair of entities which differ only in that each is the reverse
of the other. --v.tr. 1 perceive by a sense or senses. 2 be
vaguely aware of. 3 realize. 4 (of a machine etc.) detect. 5
US understand. Ьbring a person to his or her senses 1 cure a
person of folly. 2 restore a person to consciousness. come to
one's senses 1 regain consciousness. 2 become sensible after
acting foolishly. the five senses sight, hearing, smell, taste,
and touch. in a (or one) sense if the statement is understood
in a particular way (what you say is true in a sense). in one's
senses sane. make sense be intelligible or practicable. make
sense of show or find the meaning of. man of sense a sagacious
man. out of one's senses in or into a state of madness (is out
of her senses; frightened him out of his senses). sense-datum
(pl. -data) Philos. an element of experience received through
the senses. sense of direction the ability to know without
guidance the direction in which one is or should be moving.
sense of humour see HUMOUR. sense-organ a bodily organ
conveying external stimuli to the sensory system. take leave of
one's senses go mad. take the sense of the meeting ascertain
the prevailing opinion. under a sense of wrong feeling wronged.
[ME f. L sensus faculty of feeling, thought, meaning, f.
sentire sens- feel]
senseless adj. 1 unconscious. 2 wildly foolish. 3 without meaning or
purpose. 4 incapable of sensation. ЬЬsenselessly adv.
senselessness n.
sensibility
n. (pl. -ies) 1 capacity to feel (little finger lost its
sensibility). 2 a openness to emotional impressions,
susceptibility, sensitiveness (sensibility to kindness). b an
exceptional or excessive degree of this (sense and sensibility).
3 (in pl.) a tendency to feel offended etc. [ME f. LL
sensibilitas (as SENSIBLE)]
sensible adj. 1 having or showing wisdom or common sense; reasonable,
judicious (a sensible person; a sensible compromise). 2 a
perceptible by the senses (sensible phenomena). b great enough
to be perceived; appreciable (a sensible difference). 3 (of
clothing etc.) practical and functional. 4 (foll. by of) aware;
not unmindful (was sensible of his peril). Ьsensible horizon
see HORIZON 1b. ЬЬsensibleness n. sensibly adv. [ME f. OF
sensible or L sensibilis (as SENSE)]
sensitive adj. & n. --adj. 1 (often foll. by to) very open to or acutely
affected by external stimuli or mental impressions; having
sensibility. 2 (of a person) easily offended or emotionally
hurt. 3 (often foll. by to) (of an instrument etc.) responsive
to or recording slight changes. 4 (often foll. by to) a (of
photographic materials) prepared so as to respond (esp.
rapidly) to the action of light. b (of any material) readily
affected by or responsive to external action. 5 (of a topic
etc.) subject to restriction of discussion to prevent
embarrassment, ensure security, etc. 6 (of a market) liable to
quick changes of price. --n. a person who is sensitive (esp. to
supposed occult influences). Ьsensitive plant 1 a plant whose
leaves curve downwards and leaflets fold together when touched,
esp. mimosa. 2 a sensitive person. ЬЬsensitively adv.
sensitiveness n. [ME, = sensory, f. OF sensitif -ive or med.L
sensitivus, irreg. f. L sentire sens- feel]
sensitivity
n. the quality or degree of being sensitive.
sensitize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 make sensitive. 2 Photog. make sensitive
to light. 3 make (an organism etc.) abnormally sensitive to a
foreign substance. ЬЬsensitization n. sensitizer n.
sensitometer
n. Photog. a device for measuring sensitivity to light.
sensor n. a device giving a signal for the detection or measurement of
a physical property to which it responds. [SENSORY, after
MOTOR]
sensorium n. (pl. sensoria or sensoriums) 1 the seat of sensation, the
brain, brain and spinal cord, or grey matter of these. 2 Biol.
the whole sensory apparatus including the nerve-system.
ЬЬsensorial adj. sensorially adv. [LL f. L sentire sens- feel]
sensory adj. of sensation or the senses. ЬЬsensorily adv. [as
SENSORIUM]
sensual adj. 1 a of or depending on the senses only and not on the
intellect or spirit; carnal, fleshly (sensual pleasures). b
given to the pursuit of sensual pleasures or the gratification
of the appetites; self-indulgent sexually or in regard to food
and drink; voluptuous, licentious. c indicative of a sensual
nature (sensual lips). 2 of sense or sensation, sensory. 3
Philos. of, according to, or holding the doctrine of,
sensationalism. ЬЬsensualism n. sensualist n. sensualize
v.tr. (also -ise). sensually adv. [ME f. LL sensualis (as
SENSE)]
sensuality
n. gratification of the senses, self-indulgence. [ME f. F
sensualit‚ f. LL sensualitas (as SENSUAL)]
sensum n. (pl. sensa) Philos. a sense-datum. [mod.L, neut. past
part. of L sentire feel]
sensuous adj. of or derived from or affecting the senses, esp.
aesthetically rather than sensually. ЬЬsensuously adv.
sensuousness n. [L sensus sense]
sent past and past part. of SEND.
sentence n. & v. --n. 1 a a set of words complete in itself as the
expression of a thought, containing or implying a subject and
predicate, and conveying a statement, question, exclamation, or
command. b a piece of writing or speech between two full stops
or equivalent pauses, often including several grammatical
sentences (e.g. I went; he came). 2 a a decision of a
lawcourt, esp. the punishment allotted to a person convicted in
a criminal trial. b the declaration of this. 3 Logic a series
of signs or symbols expressing a proposition in an artificial or
logical language. --v.tr. 1 declare the sentence of (a
convicted criminal etc.). 2 (foll. by to) declare (such a
person) to be condemned to a specified punishment. Ьunder
sentence of having been condemned to (under sentence of death).
[ME f. OF f. L sententia opinion f. sentire be of opinion]
sentential
adj. Gram. & Logic of a sentence. [L sententialis (as
SENTENCE)]
sententious
adj. 1 (of a person) fond of pompous moralizing. 2 (of a
style) affectedly formal. 3 aphoristic, pithy, given to the use
of maxims, affecting a concise impressive style.
ЬЬsententiously adv. sententiousness n. [L sententiosus (as
SENTENCE)]
sentient adj. having the power of perception by the senses. ЬЬsentience
n. sentiency n. sentiently adv. [L sentire feel]
sentiment n. 1 a mental feeling (the sentiment of pity). 2 a the sum of
what one feels on some subject. b a verbal expression of this.
3 the expression of a view or desire esp. as formulated for a
toast (concluded his speech with a sentiment). 4 an opinion as
distinguished from the words meant to convey it (the sentiment
is good though the words are injudicious). 5 a view or tendency
based on or coloured with emotion (animated by noble
sentiments). 6 such views collectively, esp. as an influence
(sentiment unchecked by reason is a bad guide). 7 the tendency
to be swayed by feeling rather than by reason. 8 a mawkish
tenderness. b the display of this. 9 an emotional feeling
conveyed in literature or art. [ME f. OF sentement f. med.L
sentimentum f. L sentire feel]
sentimental
adj. 1 of or characterized by sentiment. 2 showing or affected
by emotion rather than reason. 3 appealing to sentiment.
Ьsentimental value the value of a thing to a particular person
because of its associations. ЬЬsentimentalism n.
sentimentalist n. sentimentality n. sentimentalize v.intr. &
tr. (also -ise). sentimentalization n. sentimentally adv.
sentinel n. & v. --n. a sentry or lookout. --v.tr. (sentinelled,
sentinelling; US sentineled, sentineling) 1 station sentinels at
or in. 2 poet. keep guard over or in. [F sentinelle f. It.
sentinella, of unkn. orig.]
sentry n. (pl. -ies) a soldier etc. stationed to keep guard.
Ьsentry-box a wooden cabin intended to shelter a standing
sentry. sentry-go the duty of pacing up and down as a sentry.
[perh. f. obs. centrinel, var. of SENTINEL]
sepal n. Bot. each of the divisions or leaves of the calyx. [F
s‚pale, mod.L sepalum, perh. formed as SEPARATE + PETAL]
separable adj. 1 able to be separated. 2 Gram. (of a prefix, or a verb
in respect of a prefix) written as a separate word in some
collocations. ЬЬseparability n. separableness n. separably
adv. [F s‚parable or L separabilis (as SEPARATE)]
separate adj., n., & v. --adj. (often foll. by from) forming a unit
that is or may be regarded as apart or by itself; physically
disconnected, distinct, or individual (living in separate rooms;
the two questions are essentially separate). --n. 1 (in pl.)
separate articles of clothing suitable for wearing together in
various combinations. 2 an offprint. --v. 1 tr. make
separate, sever, disunite. 2 tr. prevent union or contact of.
3 intr. go different ways, disperse. 4 intr. cease to live
together as a married couple. 5 intr. (foll. by from) secede.
6 tr. a divide or sort (milk, ore, fruit, light, etc.) into
constituent parts or sizes. b (often foll. by out) extract or
remove (an ingredient, waste product, etc.) by such a process
for use or rejection. 7 tr. US discharge, dismiss.
ЬЬseparately adv. separateness n. separative adj. separatory
adj. [L separare separat- (as SE-, parare make ready)]
separation
n. 1 the act or an instance of separating; the state of being
separated. 2 (in full judicial separation or legal separation)
an arrangement by which a husband and wife remain married but
live apart. 3 any of three or more monochrome reproductions of
a coloured picture which can combine to reproduce the full
colour of the original. Ьseparation order an order of court for
judicial separation. [ME f. OF f. L separatio -onis (as
SEPARATE)]
separatist
n. a person who favours separation, esp. for political or
ecclesiastical independence (opp. UNIONIST 2). ЬЬseparatism n.
separator n. a machine for separating, e.g. cream from milk.
Sephardi n. (pl. Sephardim) a Jew of Spanish or Portuguese descent (cf.
ASHKENAZI). ЬЬSephardic adj. [LHeb., f. separad, a country
mentioned in Obad. 20 and taken to be Spain]
sepia n. 1 a dark reddish-brown colour. 2 a a brown pigment prepared
from a black fluid secreted by cuttlefish, used in monochrome
drawing and in water-colours. b a brown tint used in
photography. 3 a drawing done in sepia. 4 the fluid secreted
by cuttlefish. [L f. Gk sepia cuttlefish]
sepoy n. hist. a native Indian soldier under European, esp. British,
discipline. [Urdu & Pers. sipahi soldier f. sipah army]
seppuku n. hara-kiri. [Jap.]
sepsis n. 1 the state of being septic. 2 blood-poisoning. [mod.L f.
Gk sepsis f. sepo make rotten]
Sept. abbr. 1 September. 2 Septuagint.
sept n. a clan, esp. in Ireland. [prob. alt. of SECT]
sept- var. of SEPTI-.
septa pl. of SEPTUM.
septal(1) adj. 1 of a septum or septa. 2 Archaeol. (of a stone or slab)
separating compartments in a burial chamber. [SEPTUM]
septal(2) adj. of a sept or septs.
septate adj. Bot., Zool., & Anat. having a septum or septa;
partitioned. ЬЬseptation n.
septcentenary
n. & adj. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 a seven-hundredth anniversary. 2
a festival marking this. --adj. of or concerning a
septcentenary.
September n. the ninth month of the year. [ME f. L September f. septem
seven: orig. the seventh month of the Roman year]
septenarius
n. (pl. septenarii) Prosody a verse of seven feet, esp. a
trochaic or iambic tetrameter catalectic. [L f. septeni
distributive of septem seven]
septenary adj. & n. --adj. of seven, by sevens, on the basis of seven.
--n. (pl. -ies) 1 a group or set of seven (esp. years). 2 a
septenarius. [L septenarius (as SEPTENARIUS)]
septenate adj. Bot. 1 growing in sevens. 2 having seven divisions. [L
septeni (as SEPTENARIUS)]
septennial
adj. 1 lasting for seven years. 2 recurring every seven years.
[LL septennis f. L septem seven + annus year]
septennium
n. (pl. septenniums or septennia) a period of seven years.
septet n. (also septette) 1 Mus. a a composition for seven
performers. b the performers of such a composition. 2 any
group of seven. [G Septett f. L septem seven]
septfoil n. 1 a seven-lobed ornamental figure. 2 archaic tormentil.
[LL septifolium after CINQUEFOIL, TREFOIL]
septi- comb. form (also sept- before a vowel) seven. [L f. septem
seven]
septic adj. contaminated with bacteria from a festering wound etc.,
putrefying. Ьseptic tank a tank in which the organic matter in
sewage is disintegrated through bacterial activity.
ЬЬseptically adv. septicity n. [L septicus f. Gk septikos f.
sepo make rotten]
septicaemia
n. (US septicemia) blood-poisoning. ЬЬsepticaemic adj. [mod.L
f. Gk septikos + haima blood]
septillion
n. (pl. same) a thousand raised to the eighth (or formerly,
esp. Brit., the fourteenth) power (10(24) and 10(42)
respectively). [F f. sept seven, after billion etc.]
septimal adj. of the number seven. [L septimus seventh f. septem
seven]
septime n. Fencing the seventh of the eight parrying positions. [L
septimus (as SEPTIMAL)]
septivalent
adj. (also septavalent) Chem. having a valency of seven.
septuagenarian
n. & adj. --n. a person from 70 to 79 years old. --adj. of
this age. [L septuagenarius f. septuageni distributive of
septuaginta seventy]
Septuagesima
n. (in full Septuagesima Sunday) the Sunday before Sexagesima.
[ME f. L, = seventieth (day), formed as SEPTUAGINT, perh. after
QUINQUAGESIMA or with ref. to the period of 70 days from
Septuagesima to the Saturday after Easter]
Septuagint
n. a Greek version of the Old Testament including the
Apocrypha, said to have been made about 270 BC by seventy-two
translators. [L septuaginta seventy]
septum n. (pl. septa) Anat., Bot., & Zool. a partition such as that
between the nostrils or the chambers of a poppy-fruit or of a
shell. [L s(a)eptum f. saepire saept- enclose f. saepes
hedge]
septuple adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 sevenfold, having seven parts. 2
being seven times as many or as much. --n. a sevenfold number
or amount. --v.tr. & intr. multiply by seven. [LL septuplus f.
L septem seven]
septuplet n. 1 one of seven children born at one birth. 2 Mus. a group
of seven notes to be played in the time of four or six. [as
SEPTUPLE, after TRIPLET etc.]
sepulchral
adj. 1 of a tomb or interment (sepulchral mound; sepulchral
customs). 2 suggestive of the tomb, funereal, gloomy, dismal
(sepulchral look). ЬЬsepulchrally adv. [F s‚pulchral or L
sepulchralis (as SEPULCHRE)]
sepulchre n. & v. (US sepulcher) --n. a tomb esp. cut in rock or built of
stone or brick, a burial vault or cave. --v.tr. 1 lay in a
sepulchre. 2 serve as a sepulchre for. Ьthe Holy Sepulchre the
tomb in which Christ was laid. whited sepulchre a hypocrite
(with ref. to Matt. 23:27). [ME f. OF f. L sepulc(h)rum f.
sepelire sepult- bury]
sepulture n. literary the act or an instance of burying or putting in the
grave. [ME f. OF f. L sepultura (as SEPULCHRE)]
seq. abbr. (pl. seqq.) the following. [L sequens etc.]
sequacious
adj. 1 (of reasoning or a reasoner) not inconsequent, coherent.
2 archaic inclined to follow, lacking independence or
originality, servile. ЬЬsequaciously adv. sequacity n. [L
sequax f. sequi follow]
sequel n. 1 what follows (esp. as a result). 2 a novel, film, etc.,
that continues the story of an earlier one. Ьin the sequel as
things developed afterwards. [ME f. OF sequelle or L sequel(l)a
f. sequi follow]
sequela n. (pl. sequelae) Med. (esp. in pl.) a morbid condition or
symptom following a disease. [L f. sequi follow]
sequence n. & v. --n. 1 succession, coming after or next. 2 order of
succession (shall follow the sequence of events; give the facts
in historical sequence). 3 a set of things belonging next to
one another on some principle of order; a series without gaps.
4 a part of a film dealing with one scene or topic. 5 a set of
poems on one theme. 6 a set of three or more playing-cards next
to one another in value. 7 Mus. repetition of a phrase or
melody at a higher or lower pitch. 8 Eccl. a hymn said or sung
after the Gradual or Alleluia that precedes the Gospel. 9
succession without implication of causality (opp. CONSEQUENCE).
--v.tr. 1 arrange in a definite order. 2 Biochem. ascertain
the sequence of monomers in (esp. a polypeptide or nucleic
acid). Ьsequence of tenses Gram. the dependence of the tense
of a subordinate verb on the tense of the principal verb,
according to certain rules (e.g. I think you are, thought you
were, wrong). ЬЬsequencer n. [ME f. LL sequentia f. L sequens
pres. part. of sequi follow]
sequent adj. 1 following as a sequence or consequence. 2 consecutive.
ЬЬsequently adv. [OF sequent or L sequens (as SEQUENCE)]
sequential
adj. forming a sequence or consequence or sequela.
ЬЬsequentiality n. sequentially adv. [SEQUENCE, after
CONSEQUENTIAL]
sequester v.tr. 1 (esp. as sequestered adj.) seclude, isolate, set apart
(sequester oneself from the world; a sequestered life; a
sequestered cottage). 2 = SEQUESTRATE. 3 Chem. bind (a metal
ion) so that it cannot react. [ME f. OF sequestrer or LL
sequestrare commit for safe keeping f. L sequester trustee]
sequestrate
v.tr. 1 confiscate, appropriate. 2 Law take temporary
possession of (a debtor's estate etc.). 3 Eccl. apply (the
income of a benefice) to clearing the incumbent's debts or
accumulating a fund for the next incumbent. ЬЬsequestrable adj.
sequestration n. sequestrator n. [LL sequestrare (as
SEQUESTER)]
sequestrum
n. (pl. sequestra) a piece of dead bone or other tissue
detached from the surrounding parts. ЬЬsequestral adj.
sequestrotomy n. (pl. -ies). [mod.L, neut. of L sequester
standing apart]
sequin n. 1 a circular spangle for attaching to clothing as an
ornament. 2 hist. a Venetian gold coin. ЬЬsequinned adj.
(also sequined). [F f. It. zecchino f. zecca a mint f. Arab.
sikka a die]
sequoia n. a Californian evergreen coniferous tree, Sequoia
sempervirens, of very great height. [mod.L genus-name, f.
Sequoiah, the name of a Cherokee]
sera pl. of SERUM.
serac n. one of the tower-shaped masses into which a glacier is
divided at steep points by crevasses crossing it. [Swiss F
s‚rac, orig. the name of a compact white cheese]
seraglio n. (pl. -os) 1 a harem. 2 hist. a Turkish palace, esp. that
of the Sultan with government offices etc. at Constantinople.
[It. serraglio f. Turk. f. Pers. saray palace: cf. SERAI]
serai n. a caravanserai. [Turk. f. Pers. (as SERAGLIO)]
serang n. Anglo-Ind. a native head of a Lascar crew. [Hindi f. Pers.
sarhang commander]
serape n. (also sarape, zarape) a shawl or blanket worn as a cloak by
Spanish Americans. [Mexican Sp.]
seraph n. (pl. seraphim or seraphs) an angelic being, one of the
highest order of the ninefold celestial hierarchy gifted esp.
with love and associated with light, ardour, and purity.
[back-form. f. seraphim (cf. CHERUB) (pl.) f. LL f. Gk
seraphim f. Heb. serapim]
seraphic adj. 1 of or like the seraphim. 2 ecstatically adoring,
fervent, or serene. ЬЬseraphically adv. [med.L seraphicus f.
LL (as SERAPH)]
seraskier n. hist. the Turkish Commander-in-Chief and minister of war.
[Turk. f. Pers. sar' askar head of army]
Serb n. & adj. --n. 1 a native of Serbia in Yugoslavia. 2 a person
of Serbian descent. --adj. = SERBIAN. [Serbian Srb]
Serbian n. & adj. --n. 1 the dialect of the Serbs (cf. SERBO-CROAT).
2 = SERB. --adj. of or relating to the Serbs or their dialect.
Serbo- comb. form Serbian.
Serbo-Croat
n. & adj. (also Serbo-Croatian) --n. the main official language
of Yugoslavia, combining Serbian and Croatian dialects. --adj.
of or relating to this language.
SERC abbr. (in the UK) Science and Engineering Research Council.
sere(1) n. a catch of a gunlock holding the hammer at half or full
cock. [prob. f. OF serre lock, bolt, grasp, f. serrer (see
SERRIED)]
sere(2) var. of SEAR adj.
sere(3) n. Ecol. a sequence of animal or plant communities. [L serere
join in a SERIES]
serein n. a fine rain falling in tropical climates from a cloudless
sky. [F f. OF serain ult. f. L serum evening f. serus late]
serenade n. & v. --n. 1 a piece of music sung or played at night, esp.
by a lover under his lady's window, or suitable for this. 2 =
SERENATA. --v.tr. sing or play a serenade to. ЬЬserenader n.
[F s‚r‚nade f. It. serenata f. sereno SERENE]
serenata n. Mus. 1 a cantata with a pastoral subject. 2 a simple form
of suite for orchestra or wind band. [It. (as SERENADE)]
serendipity
n. the faculty of making happy and unexpected discoveries by
accident. ЬЬserendipitous adj. serendipitously adv. [coined
by Horace Walpole (1754) after The Three Princes of Serendip
(Sri Lanka), a fairy-tale]
serene adj. & n. --adj. (serener, serenest) 1 a (of the sky, the air,
etc.) clear and calm. b (of the sea etc.) unruffled. 2 placid,
tranquil, unperturbed. --n. poet. a serene expanse of sky,
sea, etc. Ьall serene Brit. sl. all right. Serene Highness a
title used in addressing and referring to members of some
European royal families (His Serene Highness; Their Serene
Highnesses; Your Serene Highness). ЬЬserenely adv. sereneness
n. [L serenus]
serenity n. (pl. -ies) 1 tranquillity, being serene. 2 (Serenity) a
title used in addressing and referring to a reigning prince or
similar dignitary (your Serenity). [F s‚r‚nit‚ or L serenitas
(as SERENE)]
serf n. 1 hist. a labourer not allowed to leave the land on which he
worked, a villein. 2 an oppressed person, a drudge. ЬЬserfage
n. serfdom n. serfhood n. [OF f. L servus slave]
serge n. a durable twilled worsted etc. fabric. [ME f. OF sarge,
serge ult. f. L serica (lana): see SILK]
sergeant n. 1 a non-commissioned Army or Air Force officer next below
warrant officer. 2 a police officer ranking below (Brit.)
inspector or (US) captain. Ьcompany sergeant-major Mil. the
highest non-commissioned officer of a company. Sergeant Baker
Austral. a large brightly-coloured marine fish, Aulopus
purpurissatus. sergeant-fish a marine fish, Rachycentron
canadum, with lateral stripes suggesting a chevron.
sergeant-major Mil. 1 (in full regimental sergeant-major) Brit.
a warrant-officer assisting the adjutant of a regiment or
battalion. 2 US the highest-ranking non-commissioned officer.
ЬЬsergeancy n. (pl. -ies). sergeantship n. [ME f. OF sergent
f. L serviens -entis servant f. servire SERVE]
Sergt. abbr. Sergeant.
serial n. & adj. --n. 1 a story, play, or film which is published,
broadcast, or shown in regular instalments. 2 a periodical.
--adj. 1 of or in or forming a series. 2 (of a story etc.) in
the form of a serial. 3 Mus. using transformations of a fixed
series of notes (see SERIES). 4 (of a publication) appearing in
successive parts published usu. at regular intervals,
periodical. Ьserial killer a person who murders continuously
with no apparent motive. serial number a number showing the
position of an item in a series. serial rights the right to
publish a story or book as a serial. ЬЬseriality n. serially
adv. [SERIES + -AL]
serialist n. a composer or advocate of serial music. ЬЬserialism n.
serialize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 publish or produce in instalments. 2
arrange in a series. 3 Mus. compose according to a serial
technique. ЬЬserialization n.
seriate adj. & v. --adj. in the form of a series; in orderly sequence.
--v.tr. arrange in a seriate manner. ЬЬseriation n.
seriatim adv. point by point; taking one subject etc. after another in
regular order (consider seriatim). [med.L f. L series, after
LITERATIM etc.]
sericulture
n. 1 silkworm-breeding. 2 the production of raw silk.
ЬЬsericultural adj. sericulturist n. [F s‚riciculture f. LL
sericum: see SILK, CULTURE]
seriema n. (also cariama) Zool. any S. American bird of the family
Cariamidae, having a long neck and legs and a crest above the
bill. [mod.L f. Tupi siriema etc. crested]
series n. (pl. same) 1 a number of things of which each is similar to
the preceding or in which each successive pair are similarly
related; a sequence, succession, order, row, or set. 2 a set of
successive games between the same teams. 3 a set of programmes
with the same actors etc. or on related subjects but each
complete in itself. 4 a set of lectures by the same speaker or
on the same subject. 5 a a set of successive issues of a
periodical, of articles on one subject or by one writer, etc.,
esp. when numbered separately from a preceding or following set
(second series). b a set of independent books in a common
format or under a common title or supervised by a common general
editor. 6 Philately a set of stamps, coins, etc., of different
denominations but issued at one time, in one reign, etc. 7
Geol. a a set of strata with a common characteristic. b the
rocks deposited during a specific epoch. 8 Mus. an arrangement
of the twelve notes of the chromatic scale as a basis for serial
music. 9 Electr. a a set of circuits or components arranged so
that the current passes through each successively. b a set of
batteries etc. having the positive electrode of each connected
with the negative electrode of the next. 10 Chem. a set of
elements with common properties or of compounds related in
composition or structure. 11 Math. a set of quantities
constituting a progression or having the several values
determined by a common relation. Ьarithmetical (or geometrical)
series a series in arithmetical (or geometrical) progression.
in series 1 in ordered succession. 2 Electr. (of a set of
circuits or components) arranged so that the current passes
through each successively. [L, = row, chain f. serere join,
connect]
serif n. a slight projection finishing off a stroke of a letter as in
T contrasted with T! (cf. SANSERIF). ЬЬseriffed adj. [perh.
f. Du. schreef dash, line f. Gmc]
serigraphy
n. the art or process of printing designs by means of a silk
screen. ЬЬserigraph n. serigrapher n. [irreg. f. L sericum
SILK]
serin n. any small yellow Mediterranean finch of the genus Serinus,
esp. the wild canary S. serinus. [F, of uncert. orig.]
serinette n. an instrument for teaching cage-birds to sing. [F (as
SERIN)]
seringa n. 1 = SYRINGA. 2 any of various rubber-trees of the genus
Hevea, native to Brazil. [F (as SYRINGA)]
serio-comic
adj. combining the serious and the comic, jocular in intention
but simulating seriousness or vice versa. ЬЬserio-comically
adv.
serious adj. 1 thoughtful, earnest, sober, sedate, responsible, not
reckless or given to trifling (has a serious air; a serious
young person). 2 important, demanding consideration (this is a
serious matter). 3 not slight or negligible (a serious injury;
a serious offence). 4 sincere, in earnest, not ironical or
joking (are you serious?). 5 (of music and literature) not
merely for amusement (opp. LIGHT(2) 5a). 6 not perfunctory
(serious thought). 7 not to be trifled with (a serious
opponent). 8 concerned with religion or ethics (serious
subjects). ЬЬseriousness n. [ME f. OF serieux or LL seriosus
f. L serius]
seriously adv. 1 in a serious manner (esp. introducing a sentence,
implying that irony etc. is now to cease). 2 to a serious
extent.
serjeant n. 1 (in full serjeant-at-law, pl. serjeants-at-law) hist. a
barrister of the highest rank. 2 Brit. (in official lists) a
sergeant in the Army. ЬCommon Serjeant Brit. a circuit judge
of the Central Criminal Court with duties in the City of London.
serjeant-at-arms (pl. serjeants-at-arms) an official of a court
or city or parliament, with ceremonial duties. ЬЬserjeantship
n. [var. of SERGEANT]
sermon n. 1 a spoken or written discourse on a religious or moral
subject, esp. a discourse based on a text or passage of
Scripture and delivered in a service by way of religious
instruction or exhortation. 2 a piece of admonition or reproof,
a lecture. 3 a moral reflection suggested by natural objects
etc. (sermons in stones). ЬSermon on the Mount the discourse of
Christ recorded in Matt. 5-7. [ME f. AF sermun, OF sermon f. L
sermo -onis discourse, talk]
sermonette
n. a short sermon.
sermonize v. (also -ise) 1 tr. deliver a moral lecture to. 2 intr.
deliver a moral lecture. ЬЬsermonizer n.
serology n. the scientific study of blood sera and their effects.
ЬЬserological adj. serologist n.
serosa n. a serous membrane. [mod.L, fem. of med.L serosus SEROUS]
serotine n. a chestnut-coloured European bat, Eptesicus serotinus. [F
s‚rotine f. L serotinus late, of the evening, f. serus late]
serotonin n. Biol. a compound present in blood serum, which constricts
the blood vessels and acts as a neurotransmitter. [SERUM +
TONIC + -IN]
serous adj. of or like or producing serum; watery. Ьserous gland (or
membrane) a gland or membrane with a serous secretion.
ЬЬserosity n. [F s‚reux or med.L serosus (as SERUM)]
serpent n. 1 usu. literary. a a snake, esp. of a large kind. b a
scaly limbless reptile. 2 a sly or treacherous person, esp. one
who exploits a position of trust to betray it. 3 Mus. an old
bass wind instrument made from leather-covered wood, roughly in
the form of an S. 4 (the Serpent) Bibl. Satan (see Gen. 3, Rev.
20). [ME f. OF f. L serpens -entis part. of serpere creep]
serpentine
adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 of or like a serpent. 2 coiling,
tortuous, sinuous, meandering, writhing (the serpentine windings
of the stream). 3 cunning, subtle, treacherous. --n. 1 a soft
rock mainly of hydrated magnesium silicate, usu. dark green and
sometimes mottled or spotted like a serpent's skin, taking a
high polish and used as a decorative material. 2 Skating a
figure of three circles in a line. --v.intr. move sinuously,
meander. Ьserpentine verse a metrical line beginning and ending
with the same word. [ME f. OF serpentin f. LL serpentinus (as
SERPENT)]
serpiginous
adj. (of a skin-disease etc.) creeping from one part to
another. [med.L serpigo -ginis ringworm f. L serpere creep]
SERPS abbr. (in the UK) State earnings-related pension scheme.
serpula n. (pl. serpulae) any of various marine worms of the family
Serpulidae, living in intricately twisted shell-like tubes.
[LL, = small serpent, f. L serpere creep]
serra n. (pl. serrae) a serrated organ, structure, or edge. [L, =
saw]
serradilla
n. (pl. serradillae) a clover, Ornithopus sativus, grown as
fodder. [Port., dimin. of serrado serrated]
serran n. any marine fish of the family Serranidae. [mod.L serranus
f. L serra saw]
serrate v. & adj. --v.tr. (usu. as serrated adj.) provide with a
sawlike edge. --adj. esp. Anat., Bot., & Zool. notched like a
saw. ЬЬserration n. [LL serrare serrat- f. L serra saw]
serried adj. (of ranks of soldiers, rows of trees, etc.) pressed
together; without gaps; close. [past part. of serry press close
prob. f. F serr‚ past part. of serrer close ult. f. L sera lock,
or past part. of obs. serr f. OF serrer]
serrulate adj. esp. Anat., Bot., & Zool. finely serrate; with a series
of small notches. ЬЬserrulation n. [mod.L serrulatus f. L
serrula dimin. of serra saw]
serum n. (pl. sera or serums) 1 a an amber-coloured liquid that
separates from a clot when blood coagulates. b whey. 2 Med.
blood serum (usu. from a non-human mammal) as an antitoxin or
therapeutic agent, esp. in inoculation. 3 a watery fluid in
animal bodies. Ьserum sickness a reaction to an injection of
serum, characterized by skin eruption, fever, etc. [L, = whey]
serval n. a tawny black-spotted long-legged African cat, Felis serval.
[F f. Port. cerval deerlike f. cervo deer f. L cervus]
servant n. 1 a person who has undertaken (usu. in return for stipulated
pay) to carry out the orders of an individual or corporate
employer, esp. a person employed in a house on domestic duties
or as a personal attendant. 2 a devoted follower, a person
willing to serve another (a servant of Jesus Christ). Ьyour
humble servant Brit. archaic a formula preceding a signature or
expressing ironical courtesy. your obedient servant Brit. a
formula preceding a signature, now used only in certain formal
letters. [ME f. OF (as SERVE)]
serve v. & n. --v. 1 tr. do a service for (a person, community,
etc.). 2 tr. (also absol.) be a servant to. 3 intr. carry out
duties (served on six committees). 4 intr. a (foll. by in) be
employed in (an organization, esp. the armed forces, or a place,
esp. a foreign country) (served in the air force). b be a
member of the armed forces. 5 a tr. be useful to or serviceable
for; meet the needs of; do what is required for (serve a
purpose; one packet serves him for a week). b intr. meet
requirements; perform a function (a sofa serving as a bed). c
intr. (foll. by to + infin.) avail, suffice (his attempt served
only to postpone the inevitable; it serves to show the folly of
such action). 6 tr. go through a due period of (office,
apprenticeship, a prison sentence, etc.). 7 tr. set out or
present (food) for those about to eat it (asparagus served with
butter; dinner was then served). 8 intr. (in full serve at
table) act as a waiter. 9 tr. a attend to (a customer in a
shop). b (foll. by with) supply with (goods) (was serving a
customer with apples; served the town with gas). 10 tr. treat
or act towards (a person) in a specified way (has served me
shamefully; you may serve me as you will). 11 tr. a (often
foll. by on) deliver (a writ etc.) to the person concerned in a
legally formal manner (served a warrant on him). b (foll. by
with) deliver a writ etc. to (a person) in this way (served her
with a summons). 12 tr. Tennis etc. a (also absol.) deliver (a
ball etc.) to begin or resume play. b produce (a fault etc.) by
doing this. 13 tr. Mil. keep (a gun, battery, etc.) firing.
14 tr. (of an animal, esp. a stallion etc. hired for the
purpose) copulate with (a female). 15 tr. distribute (served
the ammunition out; served the rations round). 16 tr. render
obedience to (a deity etc.). 17 Eccl. a intr. act as a server.
b tr. act as a server at (a service). 18 intr. (of a tide) be
suitable for a ship to leave harbour etc. 19 tr. Naut. bind (a
rope etc.) with thin cord to strengthen it. 20 tr. play (a
trick etc.) on. --n. 1 Tennis etc. a the act or an instance of
serving. b a manner of serving. c a person's turn to serve. 2
Austral. sl. a reprimand. Ьit will serve it will be adequate.
serve one's needs (or need) be adequate. serve out retaliate
on. serve the purpose of take the place of, be used as. serve
a person right be a person's deserved punishment or misfortune.
serve one's time 1 hold office for the normal period. 2 (also
serve time) undergo imprisonment, apprenticeship, etc. serve
one's (or the) turn be adequate. serve up offer for acceptance.
[ME f. OF servir f. L servire f. servus slave]
server n. 1 a person who serves. 2 Eccl. a person assisting the
celebrant at a service, esp. the Eucharist.
servery n. (pl. -ies) a room from which meals etc. are served and in
which utensils are kept.
service(1)
n. & v. --n. 1 the act of helping or doing work for another or
for a community etc. 2 work done in this way. 3 assistance or
benefit given to someone. 4 the provision or system of
supplying a public need, e.g. transport, or (often in pl.) the
supply of water, gas, electricity, telephone, etc. 5 a the fact
or status of being a servant. b employment or a position as a
servant. 6 a state or period of employment doing work for an
individual or organization (resigned after 15 years' service).
7 a a public or Crown department or organization employing
officials working for the State (civil service; secret service).
b employment in this. 8 (in pl.) the armed forces. 9 (attrib.)
of the kind issued to the armed forces (a service revolver). 10
a a ceremony of worship according to prescribed forms. b a form
of liturgy for this. 11 a the provision of what is necessary
for the installation and maintenance of a machine etc. or
operation. b a periodic routine maintenance of a motor vehicle
etc. 12 assistance or advice given to customers after the sale
of goods. 13 a the act or process of serving food, drinks, etc.
b an extra charge nominally made for this. 14 a set of dishes,
plates, etc., used for serving meals (a dinner service). 15
Tennis etc. a the act or an instance of serving. b a person's
turn to serve. c the manner or quality of serving. d (in full
service game) a game in which a particular player serves.
--v.tr. 1 provide service or services for, esp. maintain. 2
maintain or repair (a car, machine, etc.). 3 pay interest on (a
debt). 4 supply with a service. Ьat a person's service ready
to serve or assist a person. be of service be available to
assist. in service 1 employed as a servant. 2 available for
use. on active service serving in the armed forces in wartime.
out of service not available for use. see service 1 have
experience of service, esp. in the armed forces. 2 (of a thing)
be much used. service area 1 an area beside a major road for
the supply of petrol, refreshments, etc. 2 the area served by a
broadcasting station. service-book a book of authorized forms
of worship of a Church. service bus (or car) Austral. & NZ a
motor coach. service charge an additional charge for service in
a restaurant, hotel, etc. service dress ordinary military etc.
uniform. service flat a flat in which domestic service and
sometimes meals are provided by the management. service
industry one providing services not goods. service line (in
tennis etc.) a line marking the limit of the area into which the
ball must be served. service road a road parallel to a main
road, serving houses, shops, etc. service station an
establishment beside a road selling petrol and oil etc. to
motorists and often able to carry out maintenance. take service
with become a servant to. [ME f. OF service or L servitium f.
servus slave]
service(2)
n. (in full service tree) a European tree of the genus Sorbus,
esp. S. domestica with toothed leaves, cream-coloured flowers,
and small round or pear-shaped fruit eaten when overripe.
Ьservice-berry 1 the fruit of the service tree. 2 a any
American shrub of the genus Amelanchier. b the edible fruit of
this. [earlier serves, pl. of obs. serve f. OE syrfe f. Gmc
surbhjon ult. f. L sorbus]
serviceable
adj. 1 useful or usable. 2 able to render service. 3 durable;
capable of withstanding difficult conditions. 4 suited for
ordinary use rather than ornament. ЬЬserviceability n.
serviceableness n. serviceably adv. [ME f. OF servisable (as
SERVICE(1))]
serviceman
n. (pl. -men) 1 a man serving in the armed forces. 2 a man
providing service or maintenance.
servicewoman
n. (pl. -women) a woman serving in the armed forces.
serviette n. esp. Brit. a napkin for use at table. [ME f. OF f.
servir SERVE]
servile adj. 1 of or being or like a slave or slaves. 2 slavish,
fawning; completely dependent. ЬЬservilely adv. servility n.
[ME f. L servilis f. servus slave]
serving n. a quantity of food served to one person.
servitor n. 1 archaic a a servant. b an attendant. 2 hist. an Oxford
undergraduate performing menial duties in exchange for
assistance from college funds. ЬЬservitorship n. [ME f. OF f.
LL (as SERVE)]
servitude n. 1 slavery. 2 subjection (esp. involuntary); bondage. 3 Law
the subjection of property to an easement. [ME f. OF f. L
servitudo -inis f. servus slave]
servo n. (pl. -os) 1 (in full servo-mechanism) a powered mechanism
producing motion or forces at a higher level of energy than the
input level, e.g. in the brakes and steering of large motor
vehicles, esp. where feedback is employed to make the control
automatic. 2 (in full servo-motor) the motive element in a
servo-mechanism. 3 (in comb.) of or involving a servo-mechanism
(servo-assisted). [L servus slave]
sesame n. Bot. 1 an E. Indian herbaceous plant, Sesamum indicum, with
seeds used as food and yielding an edible oil. 2 its seeds.
Ьopen sesame a means of acquiring or achieving what is normally
unattainable (from the magic words used in the Arabian Nights'
Entertainments). [L sesamum f. Gk sesamon, sesame]
sesamoid adj. & n. --adj. shaped like a sesame seed; nodular (esp. of
small independent bones developed in tendons passing over an
angular structure such as the kneecap and the navicular bone).
--n. a sesamoid bone.
sesqui- comb. form 1 denoting one and a half. 2 Chem. (of a compound)
in which there are three equivalents of a named element or
radical to two others. [L (as SEMI-, -que and)]
sesquicentenary
n. (pl. -ies) a one-hundred-and-fiftieth anniversary.
sesquicentennial
n. & adj. --n. = SESQUICENTENARY. --adj. of or relating to a
sesquicentennial.
sess var. of CESS(1).
sessile adj. 1 Bot. & Zool. (of a flower, leaf, eye, etc.) attached
directly by its base without a stalk or peduncle. 2 fixed in
one position; immobile. Ьsessile oak = DURMAST. [L sessilis f.
sedere sess- sit]
session n. 1 the process of assembly of a deliberative or judicial body
to conduct its business. 2 a single meeting for this purpose.
3 a period during which such meetings are regularly held. 4 a
an academic year. b the period during which a school etc. has
classes. 5 a period devoted to an activity (poker session;
recording session). 6 the governing body of a Presbyterian
Church. Ьin session assembled for business; not on vacation.
petty sessions 1 a meeting of two or more magistrates for the
summary trial of certain offences. 2 = quarter sessions.
ЬЬsessional adj. [ME f. OF session or L sessio -onis (as
SESSILE)]
sesterce n. (also sestertius) (pl. sesterces or sestertii) an ancient
Roman coin and monetary unit equal to one quarter of a denarius.
[L sestertius (nummus coin) = 2« f. semis half + tertius third]
sestet n. 1 the last six lines of a sonnet. 2 a sextet. [It.
sestetto f. sesto f. L sextus a sixth]
sestina n. a form of rhymed or unrhymed poem with six stanzas of six
lines and a final triplet, all stanzas having the same six words
at the line-ends in six different sequences. [It. (as SESTET)]
set(1) v. (setting; past and past part. set) 1 tr. put, lay, or stand
(a thing) in a certain position or location (set it on the
table; set it upright). 2 tr. (foll. by to) apply (one thing)
to (another) (set pen to paper). 3 tr. a fix ready or in
position. b dispose suitably for use, action, or display. 4
tr. a adjust the hands of (a clock or watch) to show the right
time. b adjust (an alarm clock) to sound at the required time.
5 tr. a fix, arrange, or mount. b insert (a jewel) in a ring,
framework, etc. 6 tr. make (a device) ready to operate. 7 tr.
lay (a table) for a meal. 8 tr. arrange (the hair) while damp
so that it dries in the required style. 9 tr. (foll. by with)
ornament or provide (a surface, esp. a precious item) (gold set
with gems). 10 tr. bring by placing or arranging or other means
into a specified state; cause to be (set things in motion; set
it on fire). 11 intr. & tr. harden or solidify (the jelly is
set; the cement has set). 12 intr. (of the sun, moon, etc.)
appear to move towards and below the earth's horizon (as the
earth rotates). 13 tr. represent (a story, play, scene, etc.)
as happening in a certain time or place. 14 tr. a (foll. by to
+ infin.) cause or instruct (a person) to perform a specified
activity (set them to work). b (foll. by pres. part.) start (a
person or thing) doing something (set him chatting; set the ball
rolling). 15 tr. present or impose as work to be done or a
matter to be dealt with (set them an essay). 16 tr. exhibit as
a type or model (set a good example). 17 tr. initiate; take the
lead in (set the fashion; set the pace). 18 tr. establish (a
record etc.). 19 tr. determine or decide (the itinerary is
set). 20 tr. appoint or establish (set them in authority). 21
tr. join, attach, or fasten. 22 tr. a put parts of (a broken
or dislocated bone, limb, etc.) into the correct position for
healing. b deal with (a fracture or dislocation) in this way.
23 tr. (in full set to music) provide (words etc.) with music
for singing. 24 tr. (often foll. by up) Printing a arrange or
produce (type or film etc.) as required. b arrange the type or
film etc. for (a book etc.). 25 intr. (of a tide, current,
etc.) have a certain motion or direction. 26 intr. (of a face)
assume a hard expression. 27 tr. a cause (a hen) to sit on
eggs. b place (eggs) for a hen to sit on. 28 tr. put (a seed,
plant, etc.) in the ground to grow. 29 tr. give the teeth of (a
saw) an alternate outward inclination. 30 tr. esp. US start (a
fire). 31 intr. (of eyes etc.) become motionless. 32 intr.
feel or show a certain tendency (opinion is setting against it).
33 intr. a (of blossom) form into fruit. b (of fruit) develop
from blossom. c (of a tree) develop fruit. 34 intr. (in full
set to partner) (of a dancer) take a position facing one's
partner. 35 intr. (of a hunting dog) take a rigid attitude
indicating the presence of game. 36 intr. dial. or sl. sit.
Ьset about 1 begin or take steps towards. 2 colloq. attack.
set (a person or thing) against (another) 1 consider or reckon
(a thing) as a counterpoise or compensation for. 2 cause to
oppose. set apart separate, reserve, differentiate. set aside
see ASIDE. set back 1 place further back in place or time. 2
impede or reverse the progress of. 3 colloq. cost (a person) a
specified amount. set-back n. 1 a reversal or arrest of
progress. 2 a relapse. set by archaic save for future use.
set down 1 record in writing. 2 allow to alight from a vehicle.
3 (foll. by to) attribute to. 4 (foll. by as) explain or
describe to oneself as. set eyes on see EYE. set one's face
against see FACE. set foot on (or in) see FOOT. set forth 1
begin a journey. 2 make known; expound. set forward begin to
advance. set free release. set one's hand to see HAND. set
one's heart (or hopes) on want or hope for eagerly. set in 1
(of weather, a condition, etc.) begin (and seem likely to
continue), become established. 2 insert (esp. a sleeve etc.
into a garment). set little by consider to be of little value.
set a person's mind at rest see MIND. set much by consider to
be of much value. set off 1 begin a journey. 2 detonate (a
bomb etc.). 3 initiate, stimulate. 4 cause (a person) to start
laughing, talking, etc. 5 serve as an adornment or foil to;
enhance. 6 (foll. by against) use as a compensating item.
set-off n. 1 a thing set off against another. 2 a thing of
which the amount or effect may be deducted from that of another
or opposite tendency. 3 a counterpoise. 4 a counter-claim. 5
a thing that embellishes; an adornment to something. 6 Printing
= OFFSET 7. set on (or upon) 1 attack violently. 2 cause or
urge to attack. set out 1 begin a journey. 2 (foll. by to +
infin.) aim or intend. 3 demonstrate, arrange, or exhibit. 4
mark out. 5 declare. set sail 1 hoist the sails. 2 begin a
voyage. set the scene see SCENE. set store by (or on) see
STORE. set one's teeth 1 clench them. 2 summon one's resolve.
set to begin doing something vigorously, esp. fighting, arguing,
or eating. set-to n. (pl. -tos) colloq. a fight or argument.
set up 1 place in position or view. 2 organize or start (a
business etc.). 3 establish in some capacity. 4 supply the
needs of. 5 begin making (a loud sound). 6 cause or make
arrangements for (a condition or situation). 7 prepare (a task
etc. for another). 8 restore or enhance the health of (a
person). 9 establish (a record). 10 propound (a theory). 11
colloq. put (a person) in a dangerous or vulnerable position.
set-up n. 1 an arrangement or organization. 2 the manner or
structure or position of this. set oneself up as make
pretensions to being. [OE settan f. Gmc]
set(2) n. 1 a number of things or persons that belong together or
resemble one another or are usually found together. 2 a
collection or group. 3 a section of society consorting together
or having similar interests etc. 4 a collection of implements,
vessels, etc., regarded collectively and needed for a specified
purpose (cricket set; teaset; a set of teeth). 5 a piece of
electric or electronic apparatus, esp. a radio or television
receiver. 6 (in tennis etc.) a group of games counting as a
unit towards a match for the player or side that wins a defined
number or proportion of the games. 7 Math. & Logic a collection
of distinct entities, individually specified or satisfying
specified conditions, forming a unit. 8 a group of pupils or
students having the same average ability. 9 a a slip, shoot,
bulb, etc., for planting. b a young fruit just set. 10 a a
habitual posture or conformation; the way the head etc. is
carried or a dress etc. flows. b (also dead set) a setter's
pointing in the presence of game. 11 the way, drift, or
tendency (of a current, public opinion, state of mind, etc.)
(the set of public feeling is against it). 12 the way in which
a machine, device, etc., is set or adjusted. 13 esp. Austral.
& NZ colloq. a grudge. 14 a the alternate outward deflection of
the teeth of a saw. b the amount of this. 15 the last coat of
plaster on a wall. 16 Printing a the amount of spacing in type
controlling the distance between letters. b the width of a
piece of type. 17 a warp or bend or displacement caused by
continued pressure or a continued position. 18 a setting,
including stage furniture etc., for a play or film etc. 19 a
sequence of songs or pieces performed in jazz or popular music.
20 the setting of the hair when damp. 21 (also sett) a badger's
burrow. 22 (also sett) a granite paving-block. 23 a
predisposition or expectation influencing a response. 24 a
number of people making up a square dance. Ьmake a dead set at
1 make a determined attack on. 2 seek to win the affections of.
set point Tennis etc. 1 the state of a game when one side needs
only one more point to win the set. 2 this point. set theory
the branch of mathematics concerned with the manipulation of
sets. [sense 1 (and related senses) f. OF sette f. L secta
SECT: other senses f. SET(1)]
set(3) adj. 1 in senses of SET(1). 2 prescribed or determined in
advance. 3 fixed, unchanging, unmoving. 4 (of a phrase or
speech etc.) having invariable or predetermined wording; not
extempore. 5 prepared for action. 6 (foll. by on, upon)
determined to acquire or achieve etc. 7 (of a book etc.)
specified for reading in preparation for an examination. 8 (of
a meal) served according to a fixed menu. Ьset fair (of the
weather) fine without a sign of breaking. set phrase an
invariable or usual arrangement of words. set piece 1 a formal
or elaborate arrangement, esp. in art or literature. 2
fireworks arranged on scaffolding etc. set screw a screw for
adjusting or clamping parts of a machine. set scrum Rugby
Football a scrum ordered by the referee. set square a
right-angled triangular plate for drawing lines, esp. at 90ш,
45ш, 60ш, or 30ш. [past part. of SET(1)]
seta n. (pl. setae) Bot. & Zool. stiff hair; bristle. ЬЬsetaceous
adj. [L, = bristle]
seton n. Surgery a skein of cotton etc. passed below the skin and
left with the ends protruding to promote drainage etc. [ME f.
med.L seto, seta silk, app. f. L seta bristle]
setose adj. Biol. bristly. [L seta bristle]
Setswana var. of TSWANA (and the preferred form for the language).
sett var. of SET(2) 21, 22.
settee n. a seat (usu. upholstered), with a back and usu. arms, for
more than one person. [18th c.: perh. a fanciful var. of
SETTLE(2)]
setter n. 1 a a dog of a large long-haired breed trained to stand
rigid when scenting game (see SET(1) 35). b this breed. 2 a
person or thing that sets.
setting n. 1 the position or manner in which a thing is set. 2 the
immediate surroundings (of a house etc.). 3 the surroundings of
any object regarded as its framework; the environment of a
thing. 4 the place and time, scenery, etc., of a story, drama,
etc. 5 a frame in which a jewel is set. 6 the music to which
words of a poem, song, etc., are set. 7 a set of cutlery and
other accessories for one person at a table. 8 the way in which
or level at which a machine is set to operate. Ьsetting lotion
lotion used to prepare the hair for being set.
settle(1) v. 1 tr. & intr. (often foll. by down) establish or become
established in a more or less permanent abode or way of life. 2
intr. & tr. (often foll. by down) a cease or cause to cease from
wandering, disturbance, movement, etc. b adopt a regular or
secure style of life. c (foll. by to) apply oneself (to work,
an activity, a way of life, etc.) (settled down to writing
letters). 3 a intr. sit or come down to stay for some time. b
tr. cause to do this. 4 tr. & intr. bring to or attain fixity,
certainty, composure, or quietness. 5 tr. determine or decide
or agree upon (shall we settle a date?). 6 tr. a resolve (a
dispute etc.). b deal with (a matter) finally. 7 tr. terminate
(a lawsuit) by mutual agreement. 8 intr. a (foll. by for)
accept or agree to (esp. an alternative not one's first choice).
b (foll. by on) decide on. 9 tr. (also absol.) pay (a debt, an
account, etc.). 10 intr. (as settled adj.) not likely to change
for a time (settled weather). 11 tr. a aid the digestion of
(food). b remedy the disordered state of (nerves, the stomach,
etc.). 12 tr. a colonize. b establish colonists in. 13 intr.
subside; fall to the bottom or on to a surface (the foundations
have settled; wait till the sediment settles; the dust will
settle). 14 intr. (of a ship) begin to sink. 15 tr. get rid of
the obstruction of (a person) by argument or conflict or
killing. Ьsettle one's affairs make any necessary arrangements
(e.g. write a will) when death is near. settle a person's hash
see HASH(1). settle in become established in a place. settle
up 1 (also absol.) pay (an account, debt, etc.). 2 finally
arrange (a matter). settle with 1 pay all or part of an amount
due to (a creditor). 2 get revenge on. settling day the
fortnightly pay-day on the Stock Exchange. ЬЬsettleable adj.
[OE setlan (as SETTLE(2)) f. Gmc]
settle(2) n. a bench with a high back and arms and often with a box
fitted below the seat. [OE setl place to sit f. Gmc]
settlement
n. 1 the act or an instance of settling; the process of being
settled. 2 a the colonization of a region. b a place or area
occupied by settlers. c a small village. 3 a a political or
financial etc. agreement. b an arrangement ending a dispute. 4
a the terms on which property is given to a person. b a deed
stating these. c the amount of property given. d = marriage
settlement. 5 the process of settling an account. 6 subsidence
of a wall, house, soil, etc.
settler n. a person who goes to settle in a new country or place; an
early colonist.
settlor n. Law a person who makes a settlement esp. of a property.
seven n. & adj. --n. 1 one more than six, or three less than ten;
the sum of four units and three units. 2 a symbol for this (7,
vii, VII). 3 a size etc. denoted by seven. 4 a set or team of
seven individuals. 5 the time of seven o'clock (is it seven
yet?). 6 a card with seven pips. --adj. that amount to seven.
Ьthe seven deadly sins the sins of pride, covetousness, lust,
anger, gluttony, envy, and sloth. the seven seas the oceans of
the world: the Arctic, Antarctic, N. Pacific, S. Pacific, N.
Atlantic, S. Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. the seven wonders of
the world see WONDER. seven year itch a supposed tendency to
infidelity after seven years of marriage. [OE seofon f. Gmc]
sevenfold adj. & adv. 1 seven times as much or as many. 2 consisting of
seven parts.
seventeen n. & adj. --n. 1 one more than sixteen, or seven more than
ten. 2 a symbol for this (17, xvii, XVII). 3 a size etc.
denoted by seventeen. --adj. that amount to seventeen.
ЬЬseventeenth adj. & n. [OE seofontiene]
seventh n. & adj. --n. 1 the position in a sequence corresponding to
the number 7 in the sequence 1-7. 2 something occupying this
position. 3 one of seven equal parts of a thing. 4 Mus. a an
interval or chord spanning seven consecutive notes in the
diatonic scale (e.g. C to B). b a note separated from another
by this interval. --adj. that is the seventh. Ьin seventh
heaven see HEAVEN. Seventh-Day Adventists a staunchly
protestant branch of the Adventists with beliefs based rigidly
on faith and the Scriptures and the imminent return of Christ to
earth, and observing the sabbath on Saturday. ЬЬseventhly adv.
seventy n. & adj. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 the product of seven and ten. 2
a symbol for this (70, lxx, LXX). 3 (in pl.) the numbers from
70 to 79, esp. the years of a century or of a person's life.
--adj. that amount to seventy. Ьseventy-first, -second , etc.
the ordinal numbers between seventieth and eightieth.
seventy-one, -two , etc. the cardinal numbers between seventy
and eighty. ЬЬseventieth adj. & n. seventyfold adj. & adv.
[OE -seofontig]
sever v. 1 tr. & intr. (often foll. by from) divide, break, or make
separate, esp. by cutting. 2 tr. & intr. break off or away;
separate, part, divide (severed our friendship). 3 tr. end the
employment contract of (a person). ЬЬseverable adj. [ME f. AF
severer, OF sevrer ult. f. L separare SEPARATE v.]
several adj. & n. --adj. & n. more than two but not many. --adj. 1
separate or respective; distinct (all went their several ways).
2 Law applied or regarded separately (opp. JOINT). ЬЬseverally
adv. [ME f. AF f. AL separalis f. L separ SEPARATE adj.]
severalty n. 1 separateness. 2 the individual or unshared tenure of an
estate etc. (esp. in severalty). [ME f. AF severalte (as
SEVERAL)]
severance n. 1 the act or an instance of severing. 2 a severed state.
Ьseverance pay an amount paid to an employee on the early
termination of a contract.
severe adj. 1 rigorous, strict, and harsh in attitude or treatment (a
severe critic; severe discipline). 2 serious, critical (a
severe shortage). 3 vehement or forceful (a severe storm). 4
extreme (in an unpleasant quality) (a severe winter; severe
cold). 5 arduous or exacting; making great demands on energy,
skill, etc. (severe competition). 6 unadorned; plain in style
(severe dress). ЬЬseverely adv. severity n. [F s‚vЉre or L
severus]
severy n. (pl. -ies) Archit. a space or compartment in a vaulted
ceiling. [ME f. OF civoire (as CIBORIUM)]
Seville orange
n. a bitter orange used for marmalade. [Seville in Spain]
SЉvres n. fine porcelain, often with elaborate decoration, made at
SЉvres in the suburbs of Paris.
sew v.tr. (past part. sewn or sewed) 1 (also absol.) fasten, join,
etc., by making stitches with a needle and thread or a
sewing-machine. 2 make (a garment etc.) by sewing. 3 (often
foll. by on, in, etc.) attach by sewing (shall I sew on your
buttons?). Ьsew up 1 join or enclose by sewing. 2 colloq.
(esp. in passive) satisfactorily arrange or finish dealing with
(a project etc.). 3 esp. US obtain exclusive use of. ЬЬsewer
n. [OE si(o)wan]
sewage n. waste matter, esp. excremental, conveyed in sewers. Ьsewage
farm (or works) a place where sewage is treated, esp. to produce
manure.
sewen var. of SEWIN.
sewer n. a conduit, usu. underground, for carrying off drainage water
and sewage. Ьsewer rat the common brown rat. [ME f. AF
sever(e), ONF se(u)wiere channel to carry off the overflow from
a fishpond, ult. f. L ex- out of + aqua water]
sewerage n. a system of or drainage by sewers.
sewin n. (also sewen) a salmon trout of Welsh etc. rivers. [16th c.:
orig. unkn.]
sewing n. a piece of material or work to be sewn.
sewing-machine
n. a machine for sewing or stitching.
sewn past part. of SEW.
sex n., adj., & v. --n. 1 either of the main divisions (male and
female) into which living things are placed on the basis of
their reproductive functions. 2 the fact of belonging to one of
these. 3 males or females collectively. 4 sexual instincts,
desires, etc., or their manifestation. 5 colloq. sexual
intercourse. --adj. 1 of or relating to sex (sex education).
2 arising from a difference or consciousness of sex (sex
antagonism; sex urge). --v.tr. 1 determine the sex of. 2 (as
sexed adj.) a having a sexual appetite (highly sexed). b having
sexual characteristics. Ьsex act (usu. prec. by the) the (or
an) act of sexual intercourse. sex appeal sexual
attractiveness. sex change an apparent change of sex by
surgical means and hormone treatment. sex chromosome a
chromosome concerned in determining the sex of an organism,
which in most animals are of two kinds, the X-chromosome and the
Y-chromosome. sex hormone a hormone affecting sexual
development or behaviour. sex kitten colloq. a young woman who
asserts her sex appeal. sex life a person's activity related to
sexual instincts. sex-linked Genetics carried on or by a sex
chromosome. sex maniac colloq. a person needing or seeking
excessive gratification of the sexual instincts. sex object a
person regarded mainly in terms of sexual attractiveness.
sex-starved lacking sexual gratification. sex symbol a person
widely noted for sex appeal. ЬЬsexer n. [ME f. OF sexe or L
sexus]
sexagenarian
n. & adj. --n. a person from 60 to 69 years old. --adj. of
this age. [L sexagenarius f. sexageni distrib. of sexaginta
sixty]
Sexagesima
n. the Sunday before Quinquagesima. [ME f. eccl.L, = sixtieth
(day), prob. named loosely as preceding QUINQUAGESIMA]
sexagesimal
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of sixtieths. 2 of sixty. 3 reckoning or
reckoned by sixtieths. --n. (in full sexagesimal fraction) a
fraction with a denominator equal to a power of 60 as in the
divisions of the degree and hour. ЬЬsexagesimally adv. [L
sexagesimus (as SEXAGESIMA)]
sexcentenary
n. & adj. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 a six-hundredth anniversary. 2 a
celebration of this. --adj. 1 of or relating to a
sexcentenary. 2 occurring every six hundred years.
sexennial adj. 1 lasting six years. 2 recurring every six years. [SEXI-
+ L annus year]
sexfoil n. a six-lobed ornamental figure. [SEXI-, after CINQUEFOIL,
TREFOIL]
sexi- comb. form (also sex- before a vowel) six. [L sex six]
sexism n. prejudice or discrimination, esp. against women, on the
grounds of sex. ЬЬsexist adj. & n.
sexivalent
adj. (also sexvalent) Chem. having a valency of six.
sexless adj. 1 Biol. neither male nor female. 2 lacking in sexual
desire or attractiveness. ЬЬsexlessly adv. sexlessness n.
sexology n. the study of sexual life or relationships, esp. in human
beings. ЬЬsexological adj. sexologist n.
sexpartite
adj. divided into six parts.
sexploitation
n. colloq. the exploitation of sex, esp. commercially.
sexpot n. colloq. a sexy person (esp. a woman).
sext n. Eccl. 1 the canonical hour of prayer appointed for the
sixth daytime hour (i.e. noon). 2 the office of sext. [ME f. L
sexta hora sixth hour f. sextus sixth]
sextant n. an instrument with a graduated arc of 60(0) used in
navigation and surveying for measuring the angular distance of
objects by means of mirrors. [L sextans -ntis sixth part f.
sextus sixth]
sextet n. (also sextette) 1 Mus. a composition for six voices or
instruments. 2 the performers of such a piece. 3 any group of
six. [alt. of SESTET after L sex six]
sextillion
n. (pl. same or sextillions) a thousand raised to the seventh
(or formerly, esp. Brit., the twelfth) power (10(21) and 10(36)
respectively) (cf. BILLION). ЬЬsextillionth [F f. L sex six,
after septillion etc.]
sexto n. (pl. -os) 1 a size of book or page in which each leaf is
one-sixth that of a printing-sheet. 2 a book or sheet of this
size. [L sextus sixth, as QUARTO]
sextodecimo
n. (pl. -os) 1 a size of book or page in which each leaf is
one-sixteenth that of a printing-sheet. 2 a book or sheet of
this size. [L sextus decimus 16th (as QUARTO)]
sexton n. a person who looks after a church and churchyard, often
acting as bell-ringer and gravedigger. Ьsexton beetle any
beetle of the genus Necrophorus, burying carrion to serve as a
nidus for its eggs. [ME segerstane etc., f. AF, OF segerstein,
secrestein f. med.L sacristanus SACRISTAN]
sextuple adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 sixfold. 2 having six parts. 3 being
six times as many or much. --n. a sixfold number or amount.
--v.tr. & intr. multiply by six; increase sixfold. ЬЬsextuply
adv. [med.L sextuplus, irreg. f. L sex six, after LL quintuplus
QUINTUPLE]
sextuplet n. 1 each of six children born at one birth. 2 Mus. a group of
six notes to be played in the time of four. [SEXTUPLE, after
triplet etc.]
sexual adj. 1 of or relating to sex, or to the sexes or the relations
between them. 2 Bot. (of classification) based on the
distinction of sexes in plants. 3 Biol. having a sex. Ьsexual
intercourse the insertion of a man's erect penis into a woman's
vagina, usu. followed by the ejaculation of semen. ЬЬsexuality
n. sexually adv. [LL sexualis (as SEX)]
sexvalent var. of SEXIVALENT.
sexy adj. (sexier, sexiest) 1 sexually attractive or stimulating. 2
sexually aroused. 3 concerned with or engrossed in sex.
ЬЬsexily adv. sexiness n.
sforzando adj., adv., & n. (also sforzato) --adj. & adv. Mus. with
sudden emphasis. --n. (pl. -os or sforzandi) 1 a note or
group of notes especially emphasized. 2 an increase in emphasis
and loudness. [It., verbal noun and past part. of sforzare use
force]
sfumato adj. & n. Painting --adj. with indistinct outlines. --n. the
technique of allowing tones and colours to shade gradually into
one another. [It., past part. of sfumare shade off f. s- =
EX-(1) + fumare smoke]
SG abbr. 1 US senior grade. 2 Law Solicitor-General. 3 specific
gravity.
sgd. abbr. signed.
sgraffito n. (pl. sgraffiti) a form of decoration made by scratching
through wet plaster on a wall or through slip on ceramic ware,
showing a different-coloured under-surface. [It., past part. of
sgraffire scratch f. s- = EX-(1) + graffio scratch]
shabby adj. (shabbier, shabbiest) 1 in bad repair or condition; faded
and worn, dingy, dilapidated. 2 dressed in old or worn clothes.
3 of poor quality. 4 contemptible, dishonourable (a shabby
trick). ЬЬshabbily adv. shabbiness n. shabbyish adj. [shab
scab f. OE sceabb f. ON, rel. to SCAB]
shabrack n. hist. a cavalry saddle-cloth. [G Schabracke of E. European
orig.: cf. Russ. shabrak]
shack n. & v. --n. a roughly built hut or cabin. --v.intr. (foll. by
up) sl. cohabit, esp. as lovers. [perh. f. Mex. jacal, Aztec
xacatli wooden hut]
shackle n. & v. --n. 1 a metal loop or link, closed by a bolt, to
connect chains etc. 2 a fetter enclosing the ankle or wrist. 3
(usu. in pl.) a restraint or impediment. --v.tr. fetter,
impede, restrain. Ьshackle-bolt 1 a bolt for closing a shackle.
2 a bolt with a shackle at its end. [OE sc(e)acul fetter,
corresp. to LG sh„kel link, coupling, ON sk”kull wagon-pole f.
Gmc]
shad n. (pl. same or shads) Zool. any deep-bodied edible marine
fish of the genus Alosa, spawning in fresh water. [OE sceadd,
of unkn. orig.]
shaddock n. Bot. 1 the largest citrus fruit, with a thick yellow skin
and bitter pulp. Also called POMELO. 2 the tree, Citrus
grandis, bearing these. [Capt. Shaddock, who introduced it to
the W. Indies in the 17th c.]
shade n. & v. --n. 1 comparative darkness (and usu. coolness) caused
by shelter from direct light and heat. 2 a place or area
sheltered from the sun. 3 a darker part of a picture etc. 4 a
colour, esp. with regard to its depth or as distinguished from
one nearly like it. 5 comparative obscurity. 6 a slight amount
(am a shade better today). 7 a translucent cover for a lamp
etc. 8 a screen excluding or moderating light. 9 an
eye-shield. 10 (in pl.) esp. US colloq. sunglasses. 11 a
slightly differing variety (all shades of opinion). 12 literary
a a ghost. b (in pl.) Hades. 13 (in pl.; foll. by of)
suggesting reminiscence or unfavourable comparison (shades of Dr
Johnson!). --v. 1 tr. screen from light. 2 tr. cover,
moderate, or exclude the light of. 3 tr. darken, esp. with
parallel pencil lines to represent shadow etc. 4 intr. & tr.
(often foll. by away, off, into) pass or change by degrees. Ьin
the shade in comparative obscurity. ЬЬshadeless adj. [OE
sc(e)adu f. Gmc]
shading n. 1 the representation of light and shade, e.g. by pencilled
lines, on a map or drawing. 2 the graduation of tones from
light to dark to create a sense of depth.
shadoof n. a pole with a bucket and counterpoise used esp. in Egypt for
raising water. [Egypt. Arab. saduf]
shadow n. & v. --n. 1 shade or a patch of shade. 2 a dark figure
projected by a body intercepting rays of light, often regarded
as an appendage. 3 an inseparable attendant or companion. 4 a
person secretly following another. 5 the slightest trace (not
the shadow of a doubt). 6 a weak or insubstantial remnant or
thing (a shadow of his former self). 7 (attrib.) Brit. denoting
members of a political party in opposition holding
responsibilities parallel to those of the government (shadow
Home Secretary; shadow cabinet). 8 the shaded part of a
picture. 9 a substance used to colour the eyelids. 10 gloom or
sadness. --v.tr. 1 cast a shadow over. 2 secretly follow and
watch the movements of. Ьshadow-boxing boxing against an
imaginary opponent as a form of training. ЬЬshadower n.
shadowless adj. [repr. OE scead(u)we, oblique case of sceadu
SHADE]
shadowgraph
n. 1 an image or photograph made by means of X-rays; =
RADIOGRAM 2. 2 a picture formed by a shadow cast on a lighted
surface. 3 an image formed by light refracted differently by
different densities of a fluid.
shadowy adj. 1 like or having a shadow. 2 full of shadows. 3 vague,
indistinct. ЬЬshadowiness n.
shady adj. (shadier, shadiest) 1 giving shade. 2 situated in shade.
3 (of a person or behaviour) disreputable; of doubtful honesty.
ЬЬshadily adv. shadiness n.
shaft n. & v. --n. 1 a an arrow or spear. b the long slender stem
of these. 2 a remark intended to hurt or provoke (a shaft of
malice; shafts of wit). 3 (foll. by of) a a ray (of light). b
a bolt (of lightning). 4 the stem or handle of a tool,
implement, etc. 5 a column, esp. between the base and capital.
6 a long narrow space, usu. vertical, for access to a mine, a
lift in a building, for ventilation, etc. 7 a long and narrow
part supporting or connecting or driving a part or parts of
greater thickness etc. 8 each of the pair of poles between
which a horse is harnessed to a vehicle. 9 the central stem of
a feather. 10 Mech. a large axle or revolving bar transferring
force by belts or cogs. 11 US colloq. harsh or unfair
treatment. --v.tr. US colloq. treat unfairly. [OE sc‘ft,
sceaft f. Gmc]
shafting n. Mech. 1 a system of connected shafts for transmitting
motion. 2 material from which shafts are cut.
shag(1) n. 1 a rough growth or mass of hair etc. 2 a coarse kind of
cut tobacco. 3 a cormorant, esp. the crested cormorant,
Phalacrocorax aristotelis. [OE sceacga, rel. to ON skegg beard,
OE sceaga coppice]
shag(2) v.tr. (shagged, shagging) coarse sl. °Usually considered a
taboo word. 1 have sexual intercourse with. 2 (usu. in
passive; often foll. by out) exhaust; tire out. [18th c.: orig.
unkn.]
shaggy adj. (shaggier, shaggiest) 1 hairy, rough-haired. 2 unkempt.
3 (of the hair) coarse and abundant. 4 Biol. having a hairlike
covering. Ьshaggy-dog story a long rambling story amusing only
by its being inconsequential. ЬЬshaggily adv. shagginess n.
shagreen n. 1 a kind of untanned leather with a rough granulated
surface. 2 a sharkskin rough with natural papillae, used for
rasping and polishing. [var. of CHAGRIN in the sense 'rough
skin']
shah n. hist. a title of the former monarch of Iran. ЬЬshahdom n.
[Pers. sah f. OPers. ksaytiya king]
shaikh var. of SHEIKH.
shake v. & n. --v. (past shook; past part. shaken) 1 tr. & intr.
move forcefully or quickly up and down or to and fro. 2 a intr.
tremble or vibrate markedly. b tr. cause to do this. 3 tr. a
agitate or shock. b colloq. upset the composure of. 4 tr.
weaken or impair; make less convincing or firm or courageous
(shook his confidence). 5 intr. (of a voice, note, etc.) make
tremulous or rapidly alternating sounds; trill (his voice shook
with emotion). 6 tr. brandish; make a threatening gesture with
(one's fist, a stick, etc.). 7 intr. colloq. shake hands (they
shook on the deal). 8 tr. esp. US colloq. = shake off. --n.
1 the act or an instance of shaking; the process of being
shaken. 2 a jerk or shock. 3 (in pl.; prec. by the) a fit of
or tendency to trembling or shivering. 4 Mus. a trill. 5 =
milk shake. Ьin two shakes (of a lamb's or dog's tail) very
quickly. no great shakes colloq. not very good or significant.
shake a person by the hand = shake hands. shake down 1 settle
or cause to fall by shaking. 2 settle down. 3 become
established; get into harmony with circumstances, surroundings,
etc. 4 US sl. extort money from. shake the dust off one's feet
depart indignantly or disdainfully. shake hands (often foll. by
with) clasp right hands at meeting or parting, in reconciliation
or congratulation, or over a concluded bargain. shake one's
head move one's head from side to side in refusal, denial,
disapproval, or concern. shake in one's shoes tremble with
apprehension. shake a leg 1 begin dancing. 2 make a start.
shake off 1 get rid of (something unwanted). 2 manage to evade
(a person who is following or pestering one). shake out 1 empty
by shaking. 2 spread or open (a sail, flag, etc.) by shaking.
shake-out n. = shake-up. shake up 1 mix (ingredients) by
shaking. 2 restore to shape by shaking. 3 disturb or make
uncomfortable. 4 rouse from lethargy, apathy, conventionality,
etc. shake-up n. an upheaval or drastic reorganization.
ЬЬshakeable adj. (also shakable). [OE sc(e)acan f. Gmc]
shakedown n. 1 a makeshift bed. 2 US sl. a swindle; a piece of
extortion. 3 (attrib.) US colloq. denoting a voyage, flight,
etc., to test a new ship or aircraft and its crew.
shaken past part. of SHAKE.
shaker n. 1 a person or thing that shakes. 2 a container for shaking
together the ingredients of cocktails etc. 3 (Shaker) a member
of an American religious sect living simply, in celibate mixed
communities. ЬЬShakeress n. (in sense 3). Shakerism n. (in
sense 3). [ME, f. SHAKE: sense 3 from religious dances]
Shakespearian
adj. & n. (also Shakespearean) --adj. 1 of or relating to
William Shakespeare, English dramatist d. 1616. 2 in the style
of Shakespeare. --n. a student of Shakespeare's works etc.
shako n. (pl. -os) a cylindrical peaked military hat with a plume.
[F schako f. Magyar cs kў (sЃveg) peaked (cap) f. cs k peak f.
G Zacken spike]
shakuhachi
n. (pl. shakuhachis) a Japanese bamboo flute. [Jap. f. shaku
a measure of length + hachi eight (tenths)]
shaky adj. (shakier, shakiest) 1 unsteady; apt to shake; trembling.
2 unsound, infirm (a shaky hand). 3 unreliable, wavering (a
shaky promise; got off to a shaky start). ЬЬshakily adv.
shakiness n.
shale n. soft finely stratified rock that splits easily, consisting
of consolidated mud or clay. Ьshale oil oil obtained from
bituminous shale. ЬЬshaly adj. [prob. f. G Schale f. OE
sc(e)alu rel. to ON sk l (see SCALE(2))]
shall v.aux. (3rd sing. present shall; archaic 2nd sing. present
shalt as below; past should) (foll. by infin. without to, or
absol.; present and past only in use) 1 (in the 1st person)
expressing the future tense (I shall return soon) or (with shall
stressed) emphatic intention (I shall have a party). 2 (in the
2nd and 3rd persons) expressing a strong assertion or command
rather than a wish (cf. WILL(1)) (you shall not catch me again;
they shall go to the party). °For the other persons in senses
1, 2 see WILL(1). 3 expressing a command or duty (thou shalt
not steal; they shall obey). 4 (in 2nd-person questions)
expressing an enquiry, esp. to avoid the form of a request (cf.
WILL(1)) (shall you go to France?). Ьshall I? do you want me
to? [OE sceal f. Gmc]
shallot n. an onion-like plant, Allium ascalonicum, with a cluster of
small bulbs. [eschalot f. F eschalotte alt. of OF eschaloigne:
see SCALLION]
shallow adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 of little depth. 2 superficial,
trivial (a shallow mind). --n. (often in pl.) a shallow place.
--v.intr. & tr. become or make shallow. ЬЬshallowly adv.
shallowness n. [ME, prob. rel. to schald, OE sceald SHOAL(2)]
shalom n. & int. a Jewish salutation at meeting or parting. [Heb.
sal“m peace]
shalt archaic 2nd person sing. of SHALL.
sham v., n., & adj. --v. (shammed, shamming) 1 intr. feign,
pretend. 2 tr. a pretend to be. b simulate (is shamming
sleep). --n. 1 imposture, pretence. 2 a person or thing
pretending or pretended to be what he or she or it is not.
--adj. pretended, counterfeit. ЬЬshammer n. [perh. north.
dial. var. of SHAME]
shaman n. a witch-doctor or priest claiming to communicate with gods
etc. ЬЬshamanism n. shamanist n. & adj. shamanistic adj. [G
Schamane & Russ. shaman f. Tungusian sam n]
shamateur n. derog. a sports player who makes money from sporting
activities though classed as an amateur. ЬЬshamateurism n.
[SHAM + AMATEUR]
shamble v. & n. --v.intr. walk or run with a shuffling or awkward gait.
--n. a shambling gait. [prob. f. dial. shamble (adj.)
ungainly, perh. f. shamble legs with ref. to straddling
trestles: see SHAMBLES]
shambles n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) 1 colloq. a mess or muddle (the
room was a shambles). 2 a butcher's slaughterhouse. 3 a scene
of carnage. [pl. of shamble stool, stall f. OE sc(e)amul f. WG
f. L scamellum dimin. of scamnum bench]
shambolic adj. colloq. chaotic, unorganized. [SHAMBLES, prob. after
SYMBOLIC]
shame n. & v. --n. 1 a feeling of distress or humiliation caused by
consciousness of the guilt or folly of oneself or an associate.
2 a capacity for experiencing this feeling, esp. as imposing a
restraint on behaviour (has no sense of shame). 3 a state of
disgrace, discredit, or intense regret. 4 a a person or thing
that brings disgrace etc. b a thing or action that is wrong or
regrettable. --v.tr. 1 bring shame on; make ashamed; put to
shame. 2 (foll. by into, out of) force by shame (was shamed
into confessing). Ьfor shame! a reproof to a person for not
showing shame. put to shame disgrace or humiliate by revealing
superior qualities etc. shame on you! you should be ashamed.
what a shame! how unfortunate! [OE sc(e)amu]
shamefaced
adj. 1 showing shame. 2 bashful, diffident. ЬЬshamefacedly
also adv. shamefacedness n. [16th-c. alt. of shamefast, by
assim. to FACE]
shameful adj. 1 that causes or is worthy of shame. 2 disgraceful,
scandalous. ЬЬshamefully adv. shamefulness n. [OE sc(e)amful
(as SHAME, -FUL)]
shameless adj. 1 having or showing no sense of shame. 2 impudent.
ЬЬshamelessly adv. shamelessness n. [OE sc(e)amleas (as SHAME,
-LESS)]
shammy n. (pl. -ies) (in full shammy leather) colloq. = CHAMOIS 2.
[repr. corrupted pronunc.]
shampoo n. & v. --n. 1 liquid or cream used to lather and wash the
hair. 2 a similar substance for washing a car or carpet etc. 3
an act or instance of cleaning with shampoo. --v.tr.
(shampoos, shampooed) wash with shampoo. [Hind. chhampo,
imper. of chhampna to press]
shamrock n. any of various plants with trifoliate leaves, esp.
Trifolium repens or Medicago lupulina, used as the national
emblem of Ireland. [Ir. seamrўg trefoil, dimin. of seamar
clover + og young]
shamus n. US sl. a detective. [20th c.: orig. uncert.]
shandy n. (pl. -ies) a mixture of beer with lemonade or ginger beer.
[19th c.: orig. unkn.]
shanghai v. & n. --v.tr. (shanghais, shanghaied, shanghaiing) 1 force
(a person) to be a sailor on a ship by using drugs or other
trickery. 2 colloq. put into detention or an awkward situation
by trickery. 3 Austral. & NZ shoot with a catapult. --n. (pl.
shanghais) Austral. & NZ a catapult. [Shanghai in China]
Shangri-La
n. an imaginary paradise on earth. [the name of a hidden
Tibetan valley in J. Hilton's Lost Horizon (1933)]
shank n. 1 a the leg. b the lower part of the leg; the leg from knee
to ankle. c the shin-bone. 2 the lower part of an animal's
foreleg, esp. as a cut of meat. 3 a shaft or stem. 4 a the
long narrow part of a tool etc. joining the handle to the
working end. b the stem of a key, spoon, anchor, etc. c the
straight part of a nail or fish-hook. 5 the narrow middle of
the sole of a shoe. Ьshanks's mare (or pony) one's own legs as
a means of conveyance. ЬЬshanked adj. (also in comb.). [OE
sceanca f. WG]
shanny n. (pl. -ies) a long-bodied olive-green European marine fish,
Blennius pholis. [19th c.: orig. unkn.: cf. 18th-c. shan]
shan't contr. shall not.
shantung n. soft undressed Chinese silk, usu. undyed. [Shantung,
Chinese province]
shanty(1) n. (pl. -ies) 1 a hut or cabin. 2 a crudely built shack.
Ьshanty town a poor or depressed area of a town, consisting of
shanties. [19th c., orig. N.Amer.: perh. f. Can.F chantier]
shanty(2) n. (also chanty) (pl. -ies) (in full sea shanty) a song with
alternating solo and chorus, of a kind orig. sung by sailors
while hauling ropes etc. [prob. F chantez, imper. pl. of
chanter sing: see CHANT]
SHAPE abbr. Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe.
shape n. & v. --n. 1 the total effect produced by the outlines of a
thing. 2 the external form or appearance of a person or thing.
3 a specific form or guise. 4 a description or sort or way (not
on offer in any shape or form). 5 a definite or proper
arrangement (must get our ideas into shape). 6 a condition, as
qualified in some way (in good shape; in poor shape). b (when
unqualified) good condition (back in shape). 7 a person or
thing as seen, esp. indistinctly or in the imagination (a shape
emerged from the mist). 8 a mould or pattern. 9 a jelly etc.
shaped in a mould. 10 a piece of material, paper, etc., made or
cut in a particular form. --v. 1 tr. give a certain shape or
form to; fashion, create. 2 tr. (foll. by to) adapt or make
conform. 3 intr. give signs of a future shape or development.
4 tr. frame mentally; imagine. 5 intr. assume or develop into a
shape. 6 tr. direct (one's life, course, etc.). Ьlick (or
knock) into shape make presentable or efficient. shape up 1
take a (specified) form. 2 show promise; make good progress.
shape up well be promising. ЬЬshapable adj. (also shapeable).
shaped adj. (also in comb.). shaper n. [OE gesceap creation f.
Gmc]
shapeless adj. lacking definite or attractive shape. ЬЬshapelessly adv.
shapelessness n.
shapely adj. (shapelier, shapeliest) 1 well formed or proportioned. 2
of elegant or pleasing shape or appearance. ЬЬshapeliness n.
shard n. 1 a broken piece of pottery or glass etc. 2 = POTSHERD. 3
a fragment of volcanic rock. 4 the wing-case of a beetle. [OE
sceard: sense 3 f. shard-borne (Shakesp.) = born in a shard
(dial., = cow-dung), wrongly taken as 'borne on shards']
share(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a portion that a person receives from or gives
to a common amount. 2 a a part contributed by an individual to
an enterprise or commitment. b a part received by an individual
from this (got a large share of the credit). 3
part-proprietorship of property held by joint owners, esp. any
of the equal parts into which a company's capital is divided
entitling its owner to a proportion of the profits. --v. 1 tr.
get or have or give a share of. 2 tr. use or benefit from
jointly with others. 3 intr. have a share; be a sharer (shall I
share with you?). 4 intr. (foll. by in) participate. 5 tr.
(often foll. by out) a divide and distribute. b give away part
of. Ьshare and share alike make an equal division.
share-farmer Austral. & NZ a tenant farmer who receives a share
of the profits from the owner. ЬЬshareable adj. (also
sharable). sharer n. [ME f. OE scearu division, rel. to SHEAR]
share(2) n. = PLOUGHSHARE. [OE scear, sc‘r f. Gmc]
sharecropper
n. esp. US a tenant farmer who gives a part of each crop as
rent. ЬЬsharecrop v.tr. & intr. (-cropped, -cropping).
shareholder
n. an owner of shares in a company.
shariah n. the Muslim code of religious law. [Arab. sari' a]
sharif n. (also shereef, sherif) 1 a descendant of Muhammad through
his daughter Fatima, entitled to wear a green turban or veil. 2
a Muslim leader. [Arab. sarif noble f. sarafa be exalted]
shark(1) n. any of various large usu. voracious marine fish with a long
body and prominent dorsal fin. [16th c.: orig. unkn.]
shark(2) n. colloq. a person who unscrupulously exploits or swindles
others. [16th c.: orig. perh. f. G Schurke worthless rogue:
infl. by SHARK(1)]
sharkskin n. 1 the skin of a shark. 2 a smooth dull-surfaced fabric.
sharp adj., n., adv., & v. --adj. 1 having an edge or point able to
cut or pierce. 2 tapering to a point or edge. 3 abrupt, steep,
angular (a sharp fall; a sharp turn). 4 well-defined,
clean-cut. 5 a severe or intense (has a sharp temper). b (of
food etc.) pungent, keen (a sharp appetite). c (of a frost)
severe, hard. 6 (of a voice or sound) shrill and piercing. 7
(of sand etc.) composed of angular grains. 8 (of words or
temper etc.) harsh or acrimonious (had a sharp tongue). 9 (of a
person) acute; quick to perceive or comprehend. 10 quick to
take advantage; artful, unscrupulous, dishonest. 11 vigorous or
brisk. 12 Mus. a above the normal pitch. b (of a key) having
a sharp or sharps in the signature. c (C, F, etc., sharp) a
semitone higher than C, F, etc. 13 colloq. stylish or flashy
with regard to dress. --n. 1 Mus. a a note raised a semitone
above natural pitch. b the sign (**) indicating this. 2
colloq. a swindler or cheat. 3 a fine sewing-needle. --adv. 1
punctually (at nine o'clock sharp). 2 suddenly, abruptly,
promptly (pulled up sharp). 3 at a sharp angle. 4 Mus. above
the true pitch (sings sharp). --v. 1 intr. archaic cheat or
swindle at cards etc. 2 tr. US Mus. make sharp. Ьsharp end
colloq. 1 the bow of a ship. 2 the scene of direct action or
decision. sharp practice dishonest or barely honest dealings.
sharp-set 1 set with a sharp edge. 2 hungry. ЬЬsharply adv.
sharpness n. [OE sc(e)arp f. Gmc]
sharpen v.tr. & intr. make or become sharp. ЬЬsharpener n.
sharpshooter
n. a skilled marksman. ЬЬsharpshooting n. & adj.
sharp-witted
adj. keenly perceptive or intelligent. ЬЬsharp-wittedly adv.
sharp-wittedness n.
shashlik n. (in Asia and E. Europe) a kebab of mutton and garnishings.
[Russ. shashlyk, ult. f. Turk. sis spit, skewer: cf. SHISH
KEBAB]
Shasta n. (in full Shasta daisy) a European plant, Chrysanthemum
maximum, with large daisy-like flowers. [Shasta in California]
Shastra n. Hindu sacred writings. [Hindi sastr, Skr. sastra]
shatter v. 1 tr. & intr. break suddenly in pieces. 2 tr. severely
damage or utterly destroy (shattered hopes). 3 tr. greatly
upset or discompose. 4 tr. (usu. as shattered adj.) exhaust.
ЬЬshatterer n. shattering adj. shatteringly adv.
shatter-proof adj. [ME, rel. to SCATTER]
shave v. & n. --v.tr. (past part. shaved or (as adj.) shaven) 1
remove (bristles or hair) from the face etc. with a razor. 2
(also absol.) remove bristles or hair with a razor from the face
etc. of (a person) or (a part of the body). 3 a reduce by a
small amount. b take (a small amount) away from. 4 cut thin
slices from the surface of (wood etc.) to shape it. 5 pass
close to without touching; miss narrowly. --n. 1 an act of
shaving or the process of being shaved. 2 a close approach
without contact. 3 a narrow miss or escape; = close shave (see
CLOSE(1)). 4 a tool for shaving wood etc. [OE sc(e)afan (sense
4 of noun f. OE sceafa) f. Gmc]
shaveling n. archaic 1 a shaven person. 2 a monk, friar, or priest.
shaven see SHAVE.
shaver n. 1 a person or thing that shaves. 2 an electric razor. 3
colloq. a young lad.
Shavian adj. & n. --adj. of or in the manner of G. B. Shaw, Irish-born
dramatist d. 1950, or his ideas. --n. an admirer of Shaw.
[Shavius, Latinized form of Shaw]
shaving n. 1 a thin strip cut off the surface of wood etc. 2 (attrib.)
used in shaving the face (shaving-cream).
Shavuoth n. (also Shavuot) the Jewish Pentecost. [Heb. sab–' “t, =
weeks, with ref. to the weeks between Passover and Pentecost]
shaw n. esp. Brit. the stalks and leaves of potatoes, turnips,
etc. [perh. = SHOW n.]
shawl n. a piece of fabric, usu. rectangular and often folded into a
triangle, worn over the shoulders or head or wrapped round a
baby. Ьshawl collar a rolled collar extended down the front of
a garment without lapel notches. ЬЬshawled adj. [Urdu etc. f.
Pers. sal, prob. f. Shaliat in India]
shawm n. Mus. a medieval double-reed wind instrument with a sharp
penetrating tone. [ME f. OF chalemie, chalemel, chalemeaus
(pl.), ult. f. L calamus f. Gk kalamos reed]
shchi n. a Russian cabbage soup. [Russ.]
she pron. & n. --pron. (obj. her; poss. her; pl. they) 1 the
woman or girl or female animal previously named or in question.
2 a thing regarded as female, e.g. a vehicle or ship. 3
Austral. & NZ colloq. it; the state of affairs (she'll be
right). --n. 1 a female; a woman. 2 (in comb.) female
(she-goat). Ьshe-devil a malicious or spiteful woman. [ME sc‘,
sche, etc., f. OE fem. demonstr. pron. & adj. sio, seo, acc.
sie]
s/he pron. a written representation of 'he or she' used to indicate
both sexes.
shea n. a W. African tree, Vitellaria paradoxa, bearing nuts
containing a large amount of fat. Ьshea-butter a butter made
from this fat. [Mandingo si, se, sye]
sheading n. each of the six administrative divisions of the Isle of Man.
[SHED(1) + -ING(1)]
sheaf n. & v. --n. (pl. sheaves) a group of things laid lengthways
together and usu. tied, esp. a bundle of cornstalks tied after
reaping, or a collection of papers. --v.tr. make into sheaves.
[OE sceaf f. Gmc (as SHOVE)]
shealing var. of SHIELING.
shear v. & n. --v. (past sheared, archaic except Austral. & NZ
shore; past part. shorn or sheared) 1 tr. cut with scissors or
shears etc. 2 tr. remove or take off by cutting. 3 tr. clip
the wool off (a sheep etc.). 4 tr. (foll. by of) a strip bare.
b deprive. 5 tr. & intr. (often foll. by off) distort or be
distorted, or break, from a structural strain. --n. 1 Mech. &
Geol. a strain produced by pressure in the structure of a
substance, when its layers are laterally shifted in relation to
each other. 2 (in pl.) (also pair of shears sing.) a large
clipping or cutting instrument shaped like scissors for use in
gardens etc. ЬЬshearer n. [OE sceran f. Gmc]
shearling n. 1 a sheep that has been shorn once. 2 wool from a
shearling.
shearwater
n. 1 any long-winged sea bird of the genus Puffinus, usu.
flying near the surface of the water. 2 = SKIMMER 4.
sheatfish n. (pl. same or sheatfishes) a large freshwater catfish,
Silurus glanis, native to European waters. [earlier
sheath-fish, prob. after G Scheid]
sheath n. (pl. sheaths) 1 a close-fitting cover, esp. for the blade
of a knife or sword. 2 a condom. 3 Bot., Anat., & Zool. an
enclosing case or tissue. 4 the protective covering round an
electric cable. 5 a woman's close-fitting dress. Ьsheath knife
a dagger-like knife carried in a sheath. ЬЬsheathless adj. [OE
sc‘th, sceath]
sheathe v.tr. 1 put into a sheath. 2 encase; protect with a sheath.
[ME f. SHEATH]
sheathing n. a protective casing or covering.
sheave(1) v.tr. make into sheaves.
sheave(2) n. a grooved wheel in a pulley-block etc., for a rope to run
on. [ME f. OE scife (unrecorded) f. Gmc]
sheaves pl. of SHEAF.
shebang n. US sl. 1 a matter or affair (esp. the whole shebang). 2 a
shed or hut. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
shebeen n. esp. Ir. an unlicensed house selling alcoholic liquor.
[Anglo-Ir. sЎbЎn f. s‚ibe mugful]
shed(1) n. 1 a one-storeyed structure usu. of wood for storage or
shelter for animals etc., or as a workshop. 2 a large roofed
structure with one side open, for storing or maintaining
machinery etc. 3 Austral. & NZ an open-sided building for
shearing sheep or milking cattle. [app. var. of SHADE(1)]
shed(2) v.tr. (shedding; past and past part. shed) 1 let or cause to
fall off (trees shed their leaves). 2 take off (clothes). 3
reduce (an electrical power load) by disconnection etc. 4 cause
to fall or flow (shed blood; shed tears). 5 disperse, diffuse,
radiate (shed light). Ьshed light on see LIGHT(1). [OE
sc(e)adan f. Gmc]
she'd contr. 1 she had. 2 she would.
shedder n. 1 a person or thing that sheds. 2 a female salmon after
spawning.
shedhand n. Austral. & NZ an unskilled assistant in a shearing shed.
sheen n. 1 a gloss or lustre on a surface. 2 radiance, brightness.
ЬЬsheeny adj. [obs. sheen beautiful, resplendent f. OE scene:
sense assim. to SHINE]
sheep n. (pl. same) 1 any ruminant mammal of the genus Ovis with a
thick woolly coat, esp. kept in flocks for its wool or meat, and
noted for its timidity. 2 a bashful, timid, or silly person. 3
(usu. in pl.) a a member of a minister's congregation. b a
parishioner. Ьseparate the sheep from the goats divide into
superior and inferior groups (cf. Matt. 25:33). sheep-dip 1 a
preparation for cleansing sheep of vermin or preserving their
wool. 2 the place where sheep are dipped in this. sheep-run an
extensive sheepwalk, esp. in Australia. sheep's-bit a plant,
Jasione montana, resembling a scabious. ЬЬsheeplike adj. [OE
scep, sc‘p, sceap]
sheepdog n. 1 a dog trained to guard and herd sheep. 2 a a dog of
various breeds suitable for this. b any of these breeds.
sheepfold n. an enclosure for penning sheep.
sheepish adj. 1 bashful, shy, reticent. 2 embarrassed through shame.
ЬЬsheepishly adv. sheepishness n.
sheepshank
n. a knot used to shorten a rope temporarily.
sheepskin n. 1 a garment or rug of sheep's skin with the wool on. 2
leather from a sheep's skin used in bookbinding.
sheepwalk n. Brit. a tract of land on which sheep are pastured.
sheer(1) adj. & adv. --adj. 1 no more or less than; mere, unqualified,
absolute (sheer luck; sheer determination). 2 (of a cliff or
ascent etc.) perpendicular; very steep. 3 (of a textile) very
thin; diaphanous. --adv. 1 directly, outright. 2
perpendicularly. ЬЬsheerly adv. sheerness n. [ME schere prob.
f. dial. shire pure, clear f. OE scir f. Gmc]
sheer(2) v. & n. --v.intr. 1 esp. Naut. swerve or change course. 2
(foll. by away, off) go away, esp. from a person or topic one
dislikes or fears. --n. Naut. a deviation from a course.
[perh. f. MLG scheren = SHEAR v.]
sheer(3) n. the upward slope of a ship's lines towards the bow and
stern. [prob. f. SHEAR n.]
sheerlegs n.pl. (treated as sing.) a hoisting apparatus made from poles
joined at or near the top and separated at the bottom for
masting ships, installing engines, etc. [sheer, var. of SHEAR
n. + LEG]
sheet(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a large rectangular piece of cotton or other
fabric, used esp. in pairs as inner bedclothes. 2 a a broad
usu. thin flat piece of material (e.g. paper or metal). b
(attrib.) made in sheets (sheet iron). 3 a wide continuous
surface or expanse of water, ice, flame, falling rain, etc. 4 a
set of unseparated postage stamps. 5 derog. a newspaper, esp. a
disreputable one. 6 a complete piece of paper of the size in
which it was made, for printing and folding as part of a book.
--v. 1 tr. provide or cover with sheets. 2 tr. form into
sheets. 3 intr. (of rain etc.) fall in sheets. Ьsheet
lightning a lightning flash with its brightness diffused by
reflection. sheet metal metal formed into thin sheets by
rolling, hammering, etc. sheet music music published in cut or
folded sheets, not bound. [OE scete, sciete f. Gmc]
sheet(2) n. 1 a rope or chain attached to the lower corner of a sail for
securing or controlling it. 2 (in pl.) the space at the bow or
stern of an open boat. Ьflowing sheets sheets eased for free
movement in the wind. sheet anchor 1 a second anchor for use in
emergencies. 2 a person or thing depended on in the last
resort. sheet bend a method of temporarily fastening one rope
through the loop of another. [ME f. OE sceata, ON skaut (as
SHEET(1))]
sheeting n. material for making bed linen.
sheikh n. (also shaikh, sheik) 1 a chief or head of an Arab tribe,
family, or village. 2 a Muslim leader. ЬЬsheikhdom n. [ult.
f. Arab. sayk old man, sheikh, f. saka be or grow old]
sheila n. Austral. & NZ sl. a girl or young woman. [orig. shaler
(of unkn. orig.): assim. to the name Sheila]
shekel n. 1 the chief monetary unit of modern Israel. 2 hist. a
silver coin and unit of weight used in ancient Israel and the
Middle East. 3 (in pl.) colloq. money; riches. [Heb. sekel f.
sakal weigh]
shelduck n. (pl. same or shelducks; masc. sheldrake, pl. same or
sheldrakes) any bright-plumaged coastal wild duck of the genus
Tadorna, esp. T. tadorna. [ME prob. f. dial. sheld pied, rel.
to MDu. schillede variegated, + DRAKE]
shelf(1) n. (pl. shelves) 1 a a thin flat piece of wood or metal etc.
projecting from a wall, or as part of a unit, used to support
books etc. b a flat-topped recess in a wall etc. used for
supporting objects. 2 a a projecting horizontal ledge in a
cliff face etc. b a reef or sandbank under water. c =
continental shelf. Ьon the shelf 1 (of a woman) past the age
when she might expect to be married. 2 (esp. of a retired
person) no longer active or of use. shelf-life the amount of
time for which a stored item of food etc. remains usable.
shelf-mark a notation on a book showing its place in a library.
shelf-room available space on a shelf. ЬЬshelved adj. shelfful
n. (pl. -fuls). shelflike adj. [ME f. (M)LG schelf, rel. to
OE scylfe partition, scylf crag]
shelf(2) n. & v. Austral. sl. --n. an informer. --v.tr. inform upon.
[20th c.: orig. uncert.]
shell n. & v. --n. 1 a the hard outer case of many marine molluscs
(cockle shell). b the esp. hard but fragile outer covering of a
bird's, reptile's, etc. egg. c the usu. hard outer case of a
nut-kernel, seed, etc. d the carapace of a tortoise, turtle,
etc. e the wing-case or pupa-case of many insects etc. 2 a an
explosive projectile or bomb for use in a big gun or mortar. b
a hollow metal or paper case used as a container for fireworks,
explosives, cartridges, etc. c US a cartridge. 3 a mere
semblance or outer form without substance. 4 any of several
things resembling a shell in being an outer case, esp.: a a
light racing-boat. b a hollow pastry case. c the metal
framework of a vehicle body etc. d the walls of an unfinished
or gutted building, ship, etc. e an inner or roughly-made
coffin. f a building shaped like a conch. g the handguard of a
sword. 5 a group of electrons with almost equal energy in an
atom. --v. 1 tr. remove the shell or pod from. 2 tr. bombard
(a town, troops, etc.) with shells. 3 tr. provide or cover with
a shell or shells. 4 intr. (usu. foll. by off) (of metal etc.)
come off in scales. 5 intr. (of a seed etc.) be released from a
shell. Ьcome out of one's shell cease to be shy; become
communicative. shell-bit a gouge-shaped boring bit. shell
company an unimportant firm made the subject of a take-over bid
because of its status on the Stock Exchange etc. shell egg an
egg still in its shell, not dried etc. shell-heap (or -mound)
hist. a kitchen midden. shell-jacket an army officer's
tight-fitting undress jacket reaching to the waist. shell-lime
fine quality lime produced by burning sea shells. shell-money
shells used as a medium of exchange, e.g. wampum. shell out
(also absol.) colloq. 1 pay (money). 2 hand over (a required
sum). shell-out n. 1 the act of shelling out. 2 a game of
snooker etc. played by three or more people. shell-pink a
delicate pale pink. shell-shock a nervous breakdown resulting
from exposure to battle. shell-shocked suffering from
shell-shock. shell-work ornamentation consisting of shells
cemented on to wood etc. ЬЬshelled adj. shell-less adj.
shell-like adj. shellproof adj. (in sense 2a of n.). shelly
adj. [OE sc(i)ell f. Gmc: cf. SCALE(1)]
she'll contr. she will; she shall.
shellac n. & v. --n. lac resin melted into thin flakes and used for
making varnish (cf. LAC(1)). --v.tr. (shellacked,
shellacking) 1 varnish with shellac. 2 US sl. defeat or thrash
soundly. [SHELL + LAC, transl. F laque en ‚cailles lac in thin
plates]
shellback n. sl. an old sailor.
shellfish n. 1 an aquatic shelled mollusc, e.g. an oyster, winkle, etc.
2 a crustacean, e.g. a crab, shrimp, etc.
Shelta n. an ancient hybrid secret language used by Irish tinkers,
gypsies, etc. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
shelter n. & v. --n. 1 anything serving as a shield or protection from
danger, bad weather, etc. 2 a a place of refuge provided esp.
for the homeless etc. b US an animal sanctuary. 3 a shielded
condition; protection (took shelter under a tree). --v. 1 tr.
act or serve as shelter to; protect; conceal; defend (sheltered
them from the storm; had a sheltered upbringing). 2 intr. &
refl. find refuge; take cover (sheltered under a tree; sheltered
themselves behind the wall). Ьshelter-belt a line of trees etc.
planted to protect crops from the wind. ЬЬshelterer n.
shelterless adj. [16th c.: perh. f. obs. sheltron phalanx f.
OE scieldtruma (as SHIELD, truma troop)]
sheltie n. (also shelty) (pl. -ies) a Shetland pony or sheepdog.
[prob. repr. ON Hjalti Shetlander as pronounced in Orkney]
shelve(1) v.tr. 1 put (books etc.) on a shelf. 2 a abandon or defer (a
plan etc.). b remove (a person) from active work etc. 3 fit (a
cupboard etc.) with shelves. ЬЬshelver n. shelving n.
[shelves pl. of SHELF]
shelve(2) v.intr. (of ground etc.) slope in a specified direction (land
shelved away to the horizon). [perh. f. shelvy (adj.) having
underwater reefs f. shelve (n.) ledge, f. SHELVE(1)]
shelves pl. of SHELF.
shemozzle n. (also schemozzle) sl. 1 a brawl or commotion. 2 a muddle.
[Yiddish after LHeb. sel-lo' -mazzal of no luck]
shenanigan
n. (esp. in pl.) colloq. 1 high-spirited behaviour; nonsense.
2 trickery; dubious manoeuvres. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
Sheol n. the Hebrew underworld abode of the dead. [Heb. se'“l]
shepherd n. & v. --n. 1 (fem. shepherdess) a person employed to tend
sheep, esp. at pasture. 2 a member of the clergy etc. who cares
for and guides a congregation. --v.tr. 1 a tend (sheep etc.)
as a shepherd. b guide (followers etc.). 2 marshal or drive (a
crowd etc.) like sheep. Ьthe Good Shepherd Christ. shepherd
dog a sheepdog. shepherd's crook a staff with a hook at one end
used by shepherds. shepherd's needle a white-flowered common
plant, Scandix pecten-veneris, with spiny fruit. shepherd's pie
a dish of minced meat under a layer of mashed potato.
shepherd's plaid 1 a small black and white check pattern. 2
woollen cloth with this pattern. shepherd's purse a
white-flowered hairy cornfield plant, Capsella bursa-pastoris,
with triangular or cordate pods. [OE sceaphierde (as SHEEP,
HERD)]
sherardize
v.tr. (also -ise) coat (iron or steel) with zinc by heating in
contact with zinc dust. [Sherard Cowper-Coles, Engl. inventor
d. 1936]
Sheraton n. (often attrib.) a style of furniture introduced in England
c.1790, with delicate and graceful forms. [T. Sheraton, Engl.
furniture-maker d. 1806]
sherbet n. 1 a a flavoured sweet effervescent powder or drink. b US a
water-ice. 2 a cooling drink of sweet diluted fruit-juices esp.
in Arabic countries. 3 Austral. joc. beer. [Turk. serbet,
Pers. serbet f. Arab. sarba drink f. sariba to drink: cf.
SHRUB(2), SYRUP]
sherd n. = POTSHERD. [var. of SHARD]
shereef (also sherif) var. of SHARIF.
sheriff n. 1 Brit. a (also High Sheriff) the chief executive officer
of the Crown in a county, administering justice etc. b an
honorary officer elected annually in some towns. 2 US an
elected officer in a county, responsible for keeping the peace.
Ьsheriff court Sc. a county court. sheriff-depute Sc. the
chief judge of a county or district. ЬЬsheriffalty n. (pl.
-ies). sheriffdom n. sheriffhood n. sheriffship n. [OE
scir-gerefa (as SHIRE, REEVE(1))]
Sherpa n. (pl. same or Sherpas) 1 a Himalayan people living on the
borders of Nepal and Tibet, and skilled in mountaineering. 2 a
member of this people. [native name]
sherry n. (pl. -ies) 1 a fortified wine orig. from S. Spain. 2 a
glass of this. Ьsherry cobbler see COBBLER 2. sherry-glass a
small wineglass used for sherry. [earlier sherris f. Sp. (vino
de) Xeres (now Jerez de la Frontera) in Andalusia]
she's contr. 1 she is. 2 she has.
Shetlander
n. a native of the Shetland Islands, NNE of the mainland of
Scotland.
Shetland lace
n. openwork woollen trimming.
Shetland pony
n. 1 a pony of a small hardy rough-coated breed. 2 this breed.
Shetland sheepdog
n. 1 a small dog of a collie-like breed. 2 this breed.
Shetland wool
n. a fine loosely twisted wool from Shetland sheep.
sheva var. of SCHWA.
shew archaic var. of SHOW.
shewbread n. twelve loaves that were displayed in a Jewish temple and
renewed each sabbath.
Shiah n. one of the two main branches of Islam, esp. in Iran, that
rejects the first three Sunni Caliphs and regards Ali as
Muhammad's first successor. [Arab. si' a party (of Ali,
Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law)]
shiatsu n. a kind of therapy of Japanese origin, in which pressure is
applied with the thumbs and palms to certain points of the body.
[Jap., = finger pressure]
shibboleth
n. a long-standing formula, doctrine, or phrase, etc., held to
be true by a party or sect (must abandon outdated shibboleths).
[ME f. Heb. sibbolet ear of corn, used as a test of nationality
for its difficult pronunciation (Judg. 12:6)]
shicer n. Austral. 1 Mining an unproductive claim or mine. 2 sl. a
a swindler, welsher, or cheat. b a worthless thing; a failure.
[G Scheisser contemptible person]
shicker adj. (also shickered) Austral. & NZ sl. drunk. [Yiddish
shiker f. Heb. sikk“r f. sakar be drunk]
shield n. & v. --n. 1 a esp. hist. a piece of armour of esp. metal,
carried on the arm or in the hand to deflect blows from the head
or body. b a thing serving to protect (insurance is a shield
against disaster). 2 a thing resembling a shield, esp.: a a
trophy in the form of a shield. b a protective plate or screen
in machinery etc. c a shieldlike part of an animal, esp. a
shell. d a similar part of a plant. e Geol. a large rigid area
of the earth's crust, usu. of Precambrian rock, which has been
unaffected by later orogenic episodes. f US a policeman's
shield-shaped badge. 3 Heraldry a stylized representation of a
shield used for displaying a coat of arms etc. --v.tr. protect
or screen, esp. from blame or lawful punishment. Ьshield fern 1
any common fern of the genus Polystichum, with shield-shaped
indusia. 2 = BUCKLER 2. ЬЬshieldless adj. [OE sc(i)eld f.
Gmc: prob. orig. = board, rel. to SCALE(1)]
shieling n. (also shealing) Sc. 1 a roughly constructed hut orig. esp.
for pastoral use. 2 pasture for cattle. [Sc. shiel hut: ME,
of unkn. orig.]
shier compar. of SHY(1).
shiest superl. of SHY(1).
shift v. & n. --v. 1 intr. & tr. change or move or cause to change
or move from one position to another. 2 tr. remove, esp. with
effort (washing won't shift the stains). 3 sl. a intr. hurry
(we'll have to shift!). b tr. consume (food or drink) hastily
or in bulk. c tr. sell (esp. dubious goods). 4 intr. contrive
or manage as best one can. 5 US a tr. change (gear) in a
vehicle. b intr. change gear. 6 intr. (of cargo) get shaken
out of place. 7 intr. archaic be evasive or indirect. --n. 1
a the act or an instance of shifting. b the substitution of one
thing for another; a rotation. 2 a a relay of workers (the
night shift). b the time for which they work (an eight-hour
shift). 3 a a device, stratagem, or expedient. b a dodge,
trick, or evasion. 4 a a woman's straight unwaisted dress. b
archaic a loose-fitting undergarment. 5 a displacement of
spectral lines (see also red shift). 6 (also sound shift) a
systematic change in pronunciation as a language evolves. 7 a
key on a keyboard used to switch between lower and upper case
etc. 8 Bridge a a change of suit in bidding. b US a change of
suit in play. 9 the positioning of successive rows of bricks so
that their ends do not coincide. 10 US a a gear lever in a
motor vehicle. b a mechanism for this. Ьmake shift manage or
contrive; get along somehow (made shift without it). shift for
oneself rely on one's own efforts. shift one's ground take up a
new position in an argument etc. shift off get rid of
(responsibility etc.) to another. ЬЬshiftable adj. shifter n.
[OE sciftan arrange, divide, etc., f. Gmc]
shiftless adj. lacking resourcefulness; lazy; inefficient. ЬЬshiftlessly
adv. shiftlessness n.
shifty adj. colloq. (shiftier, shiftiest) not straightforward;
evasive; deceitful. ЬЬshiftily adv. shiftiness n.
shigella n. any airborne bacterium of the genus Shigella, some of which
cause dysentery. [mod.L f. K. Shiga, Jap. bacteriologist d.
1957 + dimin. suffix]
shih-tzu n. 1 a dog of a breed with long silky erect hair and short
legs. 2 this breed. [Chin. shizi lion]
Shiite n. & adj. --n. an adherent of the Shiah branch of Islam.
--adj. of or relating to Shiah. ЬЬShiism n.
shikar n. Ind. hunting. [Urdu f. Pers. sikar]
shiksa n. often offens. (used by Jews) a gentile girl or woman.
[Yiddish shikse f. Heb. si&qdbelow.sѓ f. sheqes detested thing
+ -ѓ fem. suffix]
shill n. US a person employed to decoy or entice others into buying,
gambling, etc. [prob. f. earlier shillaber, of unkn. orig.]
shillelagh
n. a thick stick of blackthorn or oak used in Ireland esp. as a
weapon. [Shillelagh in Co. Wicklow, Ireland]
shilling n. 1 hist. a former British coin and monetary unit worth
one-twentieth of a pound or twelve pence. 2 a monetary unit in
Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Ьshilling-mark hist. = SOLIDUS.
take the King's (or Queen's) shilling hist. enlist as a soldier
(formerly a soldier was paid a shilling on enlisting). [OE
scilling, f. Gmc]
shilly-shally
v., adj., & n. --v.intr. (-ies, -ied) hesitate to act or
choose; be undecided; vacillate. --adj. vacillating. --n.
indecision; vacillation. ЬЬshilly-shallyer n. (also
-shallier). [orig. shill I, shall I, redupl. of shall I?]
shily var. of SHYLY (see SHY(1)).
shim n. & v. --n. a thin strip of material used in machinery etc. to
make parts fit. --v.tr. (shimmed, shimming) fit or fill up
with a shim. [18th c.: orig. unkn.]
shimmer v. & n. --v.intr. shine with a tremulous or faint diffused
light. --n. such a light. ЬЬshimmeringly adv. shimmery adj.
[OE scymrian f. Gmc: cf. SHINE]
shimmy n. & v. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 hist. a kind of ragtime dance in
which the whole body is shaken. 2 archaic colloq. = CHEMISE. 3
US an abnormal vibration of esp. the front wheels of a motor
vehicle. --v.intr. (-ies, -ied) 1 a hist. dance a shimmy. b
move in a similar manner. 2 shake or vibrate abnormally. [20th
c.: orig. uncert.]
shin n. & v. --n. 1 the front of the leg below the knee. 2 a cut
of beef from the lower foreleg. --v.tr. & (usu. foll. by up,
down) intr. (shinned, shinning) climb quickly by clinging with
the arms and legs. Ьshin-bone = TIBIA. shin-pad (or -guard) a
protective pad for the shins, worn when playing football etc.
[OE sinu]
shindig n. colloq. 1 a festive, esp. noisy, party. 2 = SHINDY 1.
[prob. f. SHINDY]
shindy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 a brawl, disturbance, or noise
(kicked up a shindy). 2 = SHINDIG 1. [perh. alt. of SHINTY]
shine v. & n. --v. (past and past part. shone or shined) 1 intr.
emit or reflect light; be bright; glow (the lamp was shining;
his face shone with gratitude). 2 intr. (of the sun, a star,
etc.) not be obscured by clouds etc.; be visible. 3 tr. cause
(a lamp etc.) to shine. 4 tr. (past and past part. shined)
make bright; polish (shined his shoes). 5 intr. be brilliant in
some respect; excel (does not shine in conversation; is a
shining example). --n. 1 light; brightness, esp. reflected. 2
a high polish; lustre. 3 US the act or an instance of shining
esp. shoes. Ьshine up to US seek to ingratiate oneself with.
take the shine out of 1 spoil the brilliance or newness of. 2
throw into the shade by surpassing. take a shine to colloq.
take a fancy to; like. ЬЬshiningly adv. [OE scinan f. Gmc]
shiner n. 1 a thing that shines. 2 colloq. a black eye. 3 US any of
various small silvery freshwater fish, esp. of the genus
Notropis. 4 (usu. in pl.) sl. a archaic money. b a jewel.
shingle(1)
n. (in sing. or pl.) small rounded pebbles, esp. on a
sea-shore. ЬЬshingly adj. [16th c.: orig. uncert.]
shingle(2)
n. & v. --n. 1 a rectangular wooden tile used on roofs,
spires, or esp. walls. 2 archaic a shingled hair. b the act
of shingling hair. 3 US a small signboard, esp. of a doctor,
lawyer, etc. --v.tr. 1 roof or clad with shingles. 2 archaic
a cut (a woman's hair) very short. b cut the hair of (a person
or head) in this way. [ME app. f. L scindula, earlier scandula]
shingles n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) an acute painful viral
inflammation of the nerve ganglia, with a skin eruption often
forming a girdle around the middle of the body. [ME f. med.L
cingulus f. L cingulum girdle f. cingere gird]
shinny v.intr. (-ies, -ied) (usu. foll. by up, down) US colloq. shin
(up or down a tree etc.).
Shinto n. the official religion of Japan incorporating the worship of
ancestors and nature-spirits. ЬЬShintoism n. Shintoist n.
[Jap. f. Chin. shen dao way of the gods]
shinty n. (pl. -ies) Brit. 1 a game like hockey played with a ball
and curved sticks, and taller goalposts. 2 a stick or ball used
in shinty. [earlier shinny, app. f. the cry used in the game
shin ye, shin you, shin t' ye, of unkn. orig.]
shiny adj. (shinier, shiniest) 1 having a shine; glistening;
polished; bright. 2 (of clothing, esp. the seat of trousers
etc.) having the nap worn off. ЬЬshinily adv. shininess n.
[SHINE]
ship n. & v. --n. 1 a any large seagoing vessel (cf. BOAT). b a
sailing-vessel with a bowsprit and three, four, or five
square-rigged masts. 2 US an aircraft. 3 a spaceship. 4
colloq. a boat, esp. a racing-boat. --v. (shipped, shipping) 1
tr. put, take, or send away (goods, passengers, sailors, etc.)
on board ship. 2 tr. a take in (water) over the side of a
ship, boat, etc. b take (oars) from the rowlocks and lay them
inside a boat. c fix (a rudder etc.) in its place on a ship
etc. d step (a mast). 3 intr. a take ship; embark. b (of a
sailor) take service on a ship (shipped for Africa). 4 tr.
deliver (goods) to a forwarding agent for conveyance.
Ьship-breaker a contractor who breaks up old ships. ship-broker
an agent in shipping goods and insuring ships. ship burial
Archaeol. burial in a wooden ship under a mound. ship-canal a
canal large enough for ships to pass inland. ship (or ship's)
chandler see CHANDLER. ship-fever typhus. ship-money hist. a
tax raised to provide ships for the navy in the 17th c. ship of
the desert the camel. ship off 1 send or transport by ship. 2
colloq. send (a person) away. ship of the line hist. a large
battleship fighting in the front line of battle. ship-rigged
square-rigged. ship's articles the terms on which seamen take
service on a ship. ship's biscuit hist. a hard coarse kind of
biscuit kept and eaten on board ship. ship's boat a small boat
carried on board a ship. ship's company a ship's crew. ship's
corporal see CORPORAL(1) 2. ship a sea be flooded by a wave.
ship's husband an agent appointed by the owners to see to the
provisioning of a ship in port. ship's papers documents
establishing the ownership, nationality, nature of the cargo,
etc., of a ship. take ship embark. when a person's ship comes
home (or in) when a person's fortune is made. ЬЬshipless adj.
shippable adj. [OE scip, scipian f. Gmc]
-ship suffix forming nouns denoting: 1 a quality or condition
(friendship; hardship). 2 status, office, or honour
(authorship; lordship). 3 a tenure of office (chairmanship). 4
a skill in a certain capacity (workmanship). 5 the collective
individuals of a group (membership). [OE -scipe etc. f. Gmc]
shipboard n. (usu. attrib.) used or occurring on board a ship (a
shipboard romance). Ьon shipboard on board ship.
shipbuilder
n. a person, company, etc., that constructs ships.
ЬЬshipbuilding n.
shiplap v. & n. --v.tr. fit (boards) together for cladding etc. so that
each overlaps the one below. --n. such cladding.
shipload n. a quantity of goods forming a cargo.
shipmaster
n. a ship's captain.
shipmate n. a fellow member of a ship's crew.
shipment n. 1 an amount of goods shipped; a consignment. 2 the act or
an instance of shipping goods etc.
shipowner n. a person owning a ship or ships or shares in ships.
shipper n. a person or company that sends or receives goods by ship, or
US by land or air. [OE scipere (as SHIP)]
shipping n. 1 the act or an instance of shipping goods etc. 2 ships,
esp. the ships of a country, port, etc. Ьshipping-agent a
person acting for a ship or ships at a port etc.
shipping-articles = ship's articles. shipping-bill Brit. a
manifest of goods shipped. shipping-master Brit. an official
presiding at the signing of ship's articles, paying off of
seamen, etc. shipping-office the office of a shipping-agent or
-master.
shipshape adv. & predic.adj. in good order; trim and neat.
shipway n. a slope on which a ship is built and down which it slides to
be launched.
shipworm n. = TEREDO.
shipwreck n. & v. --n. 1 a the destruction of a ship by a storm,
foundering, etc. b a ship so destroyed. 2 (often foll. by of)
the destruction of hopes, dreams, etc. --v. 1 tr. inflict
shipwreck on (a ship, a person's hopes, etc.). 2 intr. suffer
shipwreck.
shipwright
n. 1 a shipbuilder. 2 a ship's carpenter.
shipyard n. a place where ships are built, repaired, etc.
shiralee n. Austral. a tramp's swag or bundle. [20th c.: orig. unkn.]
shire n. Brit. 1 a county. 2 (the Shires) a a group of English
counties with names ending or formerly ending in -shire,
extending NE from Hampshire and Devon. b the midland counties
of England. c the fox-hunting district of mainly Leicestershire
and Northants. 3 Austral. a rural area with its own elected
council. Ьshire-horse a heavy powerful type of draught-horse
bred chiefly in the midland counties of England. [OE scir, OHG
scira care, official charge: orig. unkn.]
-shire suffix forming the names of counties (Derbyshire; Hampshire).
shirk v. & n. --v.tr. (also absol.) shrink from; avoid; get out of
(duty, work, responsibility, fighting, etc.). --n. a person who
shirks. ЬЬshirker n. [obs. shirk (n.) sponger, perh. f. G
Schurke scoundrel]
shirr n. & v. --n. 1 two or more rows of esp. elastic gathered
threads in a garment etc. forming smocking. 2 elastic webbing.
--v.tr. 1 gather (material) with parallel threads. 2 US bake
(eggs) without shells. ЬЬshirring n. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
shirt n. 1 a man's upper-body garment of cotton etc., having a
collar, sleeves, and esp. buttons down the front, and often worn
under a jacket or sweater. 2 a similar garment worn by a woman;
a blouse. 3 = NIGHTSHIRT. Ьkeep one's shirt on colloq. keep
one's temper. put one's shirt on colloq. bet all one has on;
be sure of. shirt blouse = sense 2 of n. shirt-dress =
SHIRTWAISTER. shirt-front the breast of a shirt, esp. of a
stiffened evening shirt. the shirt off one's back colloq.
one's last remaining possessions. shirt-tail the lower curved
part of a shirt below the waist. ЬЬshirted adj. shirting n.
shirtless adj. [OE scyrte, corresp. to ON skyrta (cf. SKIRT)
f. Gmc: cf. SHORT]
shirtsleeve
n. (usu. in pl.) the sleeve of a shirt. Ьin shirtsleeves
wearing a shirt with no jacket etc. over it.
shirtwaist
n. esp. US a woman's blouse resembling a shirt.
shirtwaister
n. US a woman's dress with a bodice like a shirt. [SHIRT,
WAIST]
shish kebab
n. a dish of pieces of marinated meat and vegetables cooked and
served on skewers. [Turk. sis kebabi f. sis skewer, KEBAB
roast meat]
shit v., n., & int. coarse sl. °Usually considered a taboo word.
--v. (shitting; past and past part. shitted or shit) intr. &
tr. expel faeces from the body or cause (faeces etc.) to be
expelled. --n. 1 faeces. 2 an act of defecating. 3 a
contemptible or worthless person or thing. 4 nonsense. 5 an
intoxicating drug, esp. cannabis. --int. an exclamation of
disgust, anger, etc. [OE scitan (unrecorded) f. Gmc]
shitty adj. (shittier, shittiest) coarse sl. 1 disgusting,
contemptible. 2 covered with excrement.
Shiva var. of SIVA.
shivaree esp. US var. of CHARIVARI.
shiver(1) v. & n. --v.intr. 1 tremble with cold, fear, etc. 2 suffer a
quick trembling movement of the body; shudder. --n. 1 a
momentary shivering movement. 2 (in pl.) an attack of
shivering, esp. from fear or horror (got the shivers in the
dark). ЬЬshiverer n. shiveringly adv. shivery adj. [ME
chivere, perh. f. chavele chatter (as JOWL(1))]
shiver(2) n. & v. --n. (esp. in pl.) each of the small pieces into which
esp. glass is shattered when broken; a splinter. --v.tr. &
intr. break into shivers. Ьshiver my timbers a reputed
piratical curse. [ME scifre, rel. to OHG scivaro splinter f.
Gmc]
shivoo n. Austral. colloq. a party or celebration.
shoal(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a great number of fish swimming together (cf.
SCHOOL(2)). 2 a multitude; a crowd (shoals of letters).
--v.intr. (of fish) form shoals. [prob. re-adoption of MDu.
schole SCHOOL(2)]
shoal(2) n., v., & adj. --n. 1 a an area of shallow water. b a
submerged sandbank visible at low water. 2 (esp. in pl.) hidden
danger or difficulty. --v. 1 intr. (of water) get shallower.
2 tr. (of a ship etc.) move into a shallower part of (water).
--adj. archaic (of water) shallow. ЬЬshoaly adj. [OE sceald
f. Gmc, rel. to SHALLOW]
shoat n. US a young pig, esp. newly weaned. [ME: cf. W.Flem.
schote]
shock(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a violent collision, impact, tremor, etc. 2 a
sudden and disturbing effect on the emotions, physical
reactions, etc. (the news was a great shock). 3 an acute state
of prostration following a wound, pain, etc., esp. when much
blood is lost (died of shock). 4 = electric shock. 5 a
disturbance in stability causing fluctuations in an
organization, monetary system, etc. --v. 1 tr. a affect with
shock; horrify; outrage; disgust; sadden. b (absol.) cause
shock. 2 tr. (esp. in passive) affect with an electric or
pathological shock. 3 intr. experience shock (I don't shock
easily). 4 intr. archaic collide violently. Ьshock absorber a
device on a vehicle etc. for absorbing shocks, vibrations, etc.
shock-brigade (or -workers) a body of esp. voluntary workers in
the USSR engaged in an especially arduous task. shock stall
excessive strain produced by air resistance on an aircraft
approaching the speed of sound. shock tactics 1 sudden and
violent action. 2 Mil. a massed cavalry charge. shock therapy
(or treatment) Psychol. a method of treating depressive
patients by electric shock or drugs inducing coma and
convulsions. shock troops troops specially trained for assault.
shock wave a sharp change of pressure in a narrow region
travelling through air etc. caused by explosion or by a body
moving faster than sound. ЬЬshockable adj. shockability n. [F
choc, choquer, of unkn. orig.]
shock(2) n. & v. --n. a group of usu. twelve corn-sheaves stood up with
their heads together in a field. --v.tr. arrange (corn) in
shocks. [ME, perh. repr. OE sc(e)oc (unrecorded)]
shock(3) n. an unkempt or shaggy mass of hair. [cf. obs. shock(-dog),
earlier shough, shaggy-haired poodle]
shocker n. colloq. 1 a shocking, horrifying, unacceptable, etc. person
or thing. 2 hist. a sordid or sensational novel etc. 3 a shock
absorber.
shocking adj. & adv. --adj. 1 causing indignation or disgust. 2
colloq. very bad (shocking weather). --adv. colloq. shockingly
(shocking bad manners). Ьshocking pink a vibrant shade of pink.
ЬЬshockingly adv. shockingness n.
shockproof
adj. resistant to the effects of (esp. physical) shock.
shod past and past part. of SHOE.
shoddy adj. & n. --adj. (shoddier, shoddiest) 1 trashy; shabby;
poorly made. 2 counterfeit. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 a an inferior
cloth made partly from the shredded fibre of old woollen cloth.
b such fibre. 2 any thing of shoddy quality. ЬЬshoddily adv.
shoddiness n. [19th c.: orig. dial.]
shoe n. & v. --n. 1 either of a pair of protective foot-coverings
of leather, plastic, etc., having a sturdy sole and, in Britain,
not reaching above the ankle. 2 a metal rim nailed to the hoof
of a horse etc.; a horseshoe. 3 anything resembling a shoe in
shape or use, esp.: a a drag for a wheel. b = brake shoe (see
BRAKE(1)). c a socket. d a ferrule, esp. on a sledge-runner.
e a mast-step. f a box from which cards are dealt in casinos at
baccarat etc. --v.tr. (shoes, shoeing; past and past part.
shod) 1 fit (esp. a horse etc.) with a shoe or shoes. 2 protect
(the end of a pole etc.) with a metal shoe. 3 (as shod adj.)
(in comb.) having shoes etc. of a specified kind (dry-shod;
roughshod). Ьbe in a person's shoes be in his or her situation,
difficulty, etc. dead men's shoes property or a position etc.
coveted by a prospective successor. if the shoe fits US = if
the cap fits (see CAP). shoe-bill an African stork-like bird,
Balaeniceps rex, with a large flattened bill for catching
aquatic prey. shoe-buckle a buckle worn as ornament or as a
fastening on a shoe. shoe-leather leather for shoes, esp. when
worn through by walking. shoe-tree a shaped block for keeping a
shoe in shape when not worn. where the shoe pinches where one's
difficulty or trouble is. ЬЬshoeless adj. [OE scoh, scog(e)an
f. Gmc]
shoeblack n. a person who cleans the shoes of passers-by for payment.
shoebox n. 1 a box for packing shoes. 2 a very small space or
dwelling.
shoehorn n. a curved piece of horn, metal, etc., for easing the heel
into a shoe.
shoelace n. a cord for lacing up shoes.
shoemaker n. a maker of boots and shoes. ЬЬshoemaking n.
shoeshine n. esp. US a polish given to shoes.
shoestring
n. 1 a shoelace. 2 colloq. a small esp. inadequate amount of
money (living on a shoestring). 3 (attrib.) barely adequate;
precarious (a shoestring majority).
shofar n. (pl. shofroth) a ram's-horn trumpet used by Jews in
religious ceremonies and as an ancient battle-signal. [Heb.
s“par, pl. s“par“t]
shogun n. hist. any of a succession of Japanese hereditary
Commanders-in-Chief and virtual rulers before 1868. ЬЬshogunate
n. [Jap., = general, f. Chin. jiang jun]
shone past and past part. of SHINE.
shonky adj. (shonkier, shonkiest) Austral. sl. unreliable,
dishonest. [perh. E dial. shonk smart]
shoo int. & v. --int. an exclamation used to frighten away birds,
children, etc. --v. (shoos, shooed) 1 intr. utter the word
'shoo!'. 2 tr. (usu. foll. by away) drive (birds etc.) away by
shooing. Ьshoo-in US something easy or certain to succeed.
[imit.]
shook(1) past of SHAKE. --predic.adj. colloq. 1 (foll. by up)
emotionally or physically disturbed; upset. 2 (foll. by on)
Austral. & NZ keen on; enthusiastic about (not too shook on the
English climate).
shook(2) n. US a set of staves and headings for a cask, ready for
fitting together. [18th c.: orig. unkn.]
shoot v., n., & int. --v. (past and past part. shot) 1 tr. a cause
(a gun, bow, etc.) to fire. b discharge (a bullet, arrow, etc.)
from a gun, bow, etc. c kill or wound (a person, animal, etc.)
with a bullet, arrow, etc. from a gun, bow, etc. 2 intr.
discharge a gun etc. esp. in a specified way (shoots well). 3
tr. send out, discharge, propel, etc., esp. violently or swiftly
(shot out the contents; shot a glance at his neighbour). 4
intr. (often foll. by out, along, forth, etc.) come or go
swiftly or vigorously. 5 intr. a (of a plant etc.) put forth
buds etc. b (of a bud etc.) appear. 6 intr. a hunt game etc.
with a gun. b (usu. foll. by over) shoot game over an estate
etc. 7 tr. shoot game in or on (coverts, an estate, etc.). 8
tr. film or photograph (a scene, film, etc.). 9 tr. (also
absol.) esp. Football a score (a goal). b take a shot at (the
goal). 10 tr. (of a boat) sweep swiftly down or under (a
bridge, rapids, falls, etc.). 11 tr. move (a door-bolt) to
fasten or unfasten a door etc. 12 tr. let (rubbish, a load,
etc.) fall or slide from a container, lorry, etc. 13 intr. a
(usu. foll. by through, up, etc.) (of a pain) pass with a
stabbing sensation. b (of part of the body) be intermittently
painful. 14 intr. (often foll. by out) project abruptly (the
mountain shoots out against the sky). 15 tr. (often foll. by
up) sl. inject esp. oneself with (a drug). 16 tr. US colloq.
a play a game of (craps, pool, etc.). b throw (a die or dice).
17 tr. Golf colloq. make (a specified score) for a round or
hole. 18 tr. colloq. pass (traffic-lights at red). 19 tr.
plane (the edge of a board) accurately. 20 intr. Cricket (of a
ball) dart along the ground after pitching. --n. 1 the act or
an instance of shooting. 2 a a young branch or sucker. b the
new growth of a plant. 3 Brit. a a hunting party, expedition,
etc. b land shot over for game. 4 = CHUTE(1). 5 a rapid in a
stream. --int. colloq. 1 a demand for a reply, information,
etc. 2 US euphem. an exclamation of disgust, anger, etc. (see
SHIT). Ьshoot ahead come quickly to the front of competitors
etc. shoot one's bolt see BOLT(1). shoot down 1 kill (a
person) by shooting. 2 cause (an aircraft, its pilot, etc.) to
crash by shooting. 3 argue effectively against (a person,
argument, etc.). shoot it out sl. engage in a decisive
gun-battle. shoot a line sl. talk pretentiously. shoot one's
mouth off sl. talk too much or indiscreetly. shoot-out colloq.
a decisive gun battle. shoot through Austral. & NZ sl. depart;
escape, abscond. shoot up 1 grow rapidly, esp. (of a person)
grow taller. 2 rise suddenly. 3 terrorize (a district) by
indiscriminate shooting. 4 sl. = sense 15 of v. the whole
shoot = the whole shooting match (see SHOOTING). ЬЬshootable
adj. [OE sceotan f. Gmc: cf. SHEET(1), SHOT(1), SHUT]
shooter n. 1 a person or thing that shoots. 2 a (in comb.) a gun or
other device for shooting (peashooter; six-shooter). b sl. a
pistol etc. 3 a player who shoots or is able to shoot a goal in
football, netball, etc. 4 Cricket a ball that shoots. 5 a
person who throws a die or dice.
shooting n. & adj. --n. 1 the act or an instance of shooting. 2 a the
right of shooting over an area of land. b an estate etc. rented
to shoot over. --adj. moving, growing, etc. quickly (a shooting
pain in the arm). Ьshooting-box Brit. a lodge used by
sportsmen in the shooting-season. shooting-brake (or -break)
Brit. an estate car. shooting-coat (or -jacket) a coat
designed to be worn when shooting game. shooting-gallery a
place used for shooting at targets with rifles etc.
shooting-iron esp. US colloq. a firearm. shooting-range a
ground with butts for rifle practice. shooting star a small
meteor moving rapidly and burning up on entering the earth's
atmosphere. shooting-stick a walking-stick with a foldable
seat. shooting war a war in which there is shooting (opp. cold
war, war of nerves etc.). the whole shooting match colloq.
everything.
shop n. & v. --n. 1 a building, room, etc., for the retail sale of
goods or services (chemist's shop; betting-shop). 2 a place in
which manufacture or repairing is done; a workshop
(engineering-shop). 3 a profession, trade, business, etc., esp.
as a subject of conversation (talk shop). 4 colloq. an
institution, establishment, place of business, etc. --v.
(shopped, shopping) 1 intr. a go to a shop or shops to buy
goods. b US = window-shop. 2 tr. esp. Brit. sl. inform
against (a criminal etc.). Ьall over the shop colloq. 1 in
disorder (scattered all over the shop). 2 in every place
(looked for it all over the shop). 3 wildly (hitting out all
over the shop). set up shop establish oneself in business etc.
shop around look for the best bargain. shop assistant Brit. a
person who serves customers in a shop. shop-boy (or -girl) an
assistant in a shop. shop-floor workers in a factory etc. as
distinct from management. shop-soiled 1 (of an article) soiled
or faded by display in a shop. 2 (of a person, idea, etc.)
grubby; tarnished; no longer fresh or new. shop steward a
person elected by workers in a factory etc. to represent them in
dealings with management. shop-window 1 a display window in a
shop. 2 an opportunity for displaying skills, talents, etc.
shop-worn = shop-soiled. ЬЬshopless adj. shoppy adj. [ME f.
AF & OF eschoppe booth f. MLG schoppe, OHG scopf porch]
shopkeeper
n. the owner and manager of a shop. ЬЬshopkeeping n.
shoplifter
n. a person who steals goods while appearing to shop.
ЬЬshoplifting n.
shopman n. (pl. -men) 1 Brit. a shopkeeper or shopkeeper's assistant.
2 a workman in a repair shop.
shopper n. 1 a person who makes purchases in a shop. 2 a shopping bag
or trolley. 3 sl. an informer.
shopping n. 1 (often attrib.) the purchase of goods etc. (shopping
expedition). 2 goods purchased (put the shopping on the table).
Ьshopping centre an area or complex of shops, with associated
facilities.
shopwalker
n. Brit. an attendant in a large shop who directs customers,
supervises assistants, etc.
shoran n. a system of aircraft navigation using the return of two
radar signals by two ground stations. [short range navigation]
shore(1) n. 1 the land that adjoins the sea or a large body of water. 2
(usu. in pl.) a country; a sea-coast (often visits these shores;
on a distant shore). 3 Law land between ordinary high and low
water marks. Ьin shore on the water near or nearer to the shore
(cf. INSHORE). on shore ashore. shore-based operating from a
base on shore. shore leave Naut. 1 permission to go ashore. 2
a period of time ashore. ЬЬshoreless adj. shoreward adj. &
adv. shorewards adv. [ME f. MDu., MLG schore, perh. f. the
root of SHEAR]
shore(2) v. & n. --v.tr. (often foll. by up) support with or as if with
a shore or shores; hold up. --n. a prop or beam set obliquely
against a ship, wall, tree, etc., as a support. ЬЬshoring n.
[ME f. MDu., MLG schore prop, of unkn. orig.]
shore(3) see SHEAR.
shoreweed n. a stoloniferous plant, Littorella uniflora, growing in
shallow water.
shorn past part. of SHEAR.
short adj., adv., n., & v. --adj. 1 a measuring little; not long
from end to end (a short distance). b not long in duration;
brief (a short time ago; had a short life). c seeming less than
the stated amount (a few short years of happiness). 2 of small
height; not tall (a short square tower; was shorter than
average). 3 a (usu. foll. by of, on) having a partial or total
lack; deficient; scanty (short of spoons; is rather short on
sense). b not far-reaching; acting or being near at hand
(within short range). 4 a concise; brief (kept his speech
short). b curt; uncivil (was short with her). 5 (of the
memory) unable to remember distant events. 6 Phonet. & Prosody
of a vowel or syllable: a having the lesser of the two
recognized durations. b unstressed. c (of an English vowel)
having a sound other than that called long (cf. LONG(1) adj.
8). 7 a (of pastry) crumbling; not holding together. b (of
clay) having poor plasticity. 8 esp. Stock Exch. a (of stocks,
a stockbroker, crops, etc.) sold or selling when the amount is
not in hand, with reliance on getting the deficit in time for
delivery. b (of a bill of exchange) maturing at an early date.
9 Cricket a (of a ball) pitching relatively near the bowler. b
(of a fielder or his position) relatively near the batsman. 10
(of a drink of spirits) undiluted. --adv. 1 before the natural
or expected time or place; abruptly (pulled up short; cut short
the celebrations). 2 rudely; uncivilly (spoke to him short).
--n. 1 colloq. a short drink, esp. spirits. 2 a short circuit.
3 a short film. 4 Stock Exch. a a person who sells short. b
(in pl.) short-dated stocks. 5 Phonet. a a short syllable or
vowel. b a mark indicating that a vowel is short. 6 (in pl.) a
mixture of bran and coarse flour. --v.tr. & intr.
short-circuit. Ьbe caught (or taken) short 1 be put at a
disadvantage. 2 colloq. urgently need to urinate or defecate.
bring up (or pull up) short check or pause abruptly. come short
be inadequate or disappointing. come short of fail to reach or
amount to. for short as a short name (Tom for short). get (or
have) by the short hairs colloq. be in complete control of (a
person). go short (often foll. by of) not have enough. in
short to use few words; briefly. in short order US immediately.
in the short run over a short period of time. in short supply
scarce. in the short term = in the short run. make short work
of accomplish, dispose of, destroy, consume, etc. quickly.
short and sweet esp. iron. brief and pleasant. short-arm (of a
blow etc.) delivered with the arm not fully extended. short
back and sides a haircut in which the hair is cut short at the
back and the sides. short change insufficient money given as
change. short-change v.tr. rob or cheat by giving short
change. short circuit an electric circuit through small
resistance, esp. instead of the resistance of a normal circuit.
short-circuit 1 cause a short circuit or a short circuit in. 2
shorten or avoid (a journey, work, etc.) by taking a more direct
route etc. short commons insufficient food. short cut 1 a
route shortening the distance travelled. 2 a quick way of
accomplishing something. short date an early date for the
maturing of a bill etc. short-dated due for early payment or
redemption. short-day (of a plant) needing the period of light
each day to fall below some limit to cause flowering. short
division Math. division in which the quotient is written
directly without being worked out in writing. short drink a
strong alcoholic drink served in small measures. short-eared
owl an owl, Asio flammeus, frequenting open country and hunting
at dawn or dusk. short for an abbreviation for ('Bob' is short
for 'Robert'). short fuse a quick temper. short game Golf
approaching and putting. short-handed undermanned or
understaffed. short haul 1 the transport of goods over a short
distance. 2 a short-term effort. short head Racing a distance
less than the length of a horse's head. short-head v.tr. beat
by a short head. short hundredweight see HUNDREDWEIGHT. short
list Brit. a list of selected candidates from which a final
choice is made. short-list v.tr. Brit. put on a short list.
short-lived ephemeral; not long-lasting. short mark = BREVE 2.
short measure less than the professed amount. short metre
Prosody a hymn stanza of four lines with 6, 6, 8, and 6
syllables. short notice an insufficient length of warning time.
short odds nearly equal stakes or chances in betting. short of
1 see sense 3a of adj. 2 less than (nothing short of a
miracle). 3 distant from (two miles short of home). 4 without
going so far as; except (did everything short of destroying it).
short of breath panting, short-winded. short on colloq. see
sense 3a of adj. short order US an order in a restaurant for
quickly cooked food. short-pitched Cricket (of a ball) pitching
relatively near the bowler. short-range 1 having a short range.
2 relating to a fairly immediate future time (short-range
possibilities). short rib = floating rib. short score Mus. a
score not giving all parts. short shrift curt or dismissive
treatment. short sight the inability to focus except on
comparatively near objects. short-sleeved with sleeves not
reaching below the elbow. short-staffed having insufficient
staff. short story a story with a fully developed theme but
shorter than a novel. short suit a suit of less than four
cards. short temper self-control soon or easily lost.
short-term occurring in or relating to a short period of time.
short time the condition of working fewer than the regular hours
per day or days per week. short title an abbreviated form of a
title of a book etc. short ton see TON. short view a
consideration of the present only, not the future. short waist
1 a high or shallow waist of a dress. 2 a short upper body.
short wave a radio wave of frequency greater than 3 MHz. short
weight weight less than it is alleged to be. short whist whist
with ten or five points to a game. short wind quickly exhausted
breathing-power. short-winded 1 having short wind. 2 incapable
of sustained effort. ЬЬshortish adj. shortness n. [OE sceort
f. Gmc: cf. SHIRT, SKIRT]
shortage n. (often foll. by of) a deficiency; an amount lacking (a
shortage of 100 tons).
shortbread
n. a crisp rich crumbly type of biscuit made with butter,
flour, and sugar.
shortcake n. 1 = SHORTBREAD. 2 a cake made of short pastry and filled
with fruit and cream.
shortcoming
n. failure to come up to a standard; a defect.
shortcrust
n. (in full shortcrust pastry) a type of crumbly pastry made
with flour and fat.
shorten v. 1 intr. & tr. become or make shorter or short; curtail. 2
tr. Naut. reduce the amount of (sail spread). 3 intr. & tr.
(with reference to gambling odds, prices, etc.) become or make
shorter; decrease.
shortening
n. fat used for making pastry, esp. for making short pastry.
shortfall n. a deficit below what was expected.
shorthand n. 1 (often attrib.) a method of rapid writing in abbreviations
and symbols esp. for taking dictation. 2 an abbreviated or
symbolic mode of expression. Ьshorthand typist Brit. a typist
qualified to take and transcribe shorthand.
shorthorn n. 1 an animal of a breed of cattle with short horns. 2 this
breed.
shortie var. of SHORTY.
shortly adv. 1 (often foll. by before, after) before long; soon (will
arrive shortly; arrived shortly after him). 2 in a few words;
briefly. 3 curtly. [OE scortlice (as SHORT, -LY(2))]
shorts n.pl. 1 trousers reaching only to the knees or higher. 2 US
underpants.
short-sighted
adj. 1 having short sight. 2 lacking imagination or foresight.
ЬЬshort-sightedly adv. short-sightedness n.
shortstop n. a baseball fielder near second base.
shorty n. (also shortie) (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 a person shorter than
average. 2 a short garment, esp. a nightdress or raincoat.
shot(1) n. 1 the act or an instance of firing a gun, cannon, etc.
(several shots were heard). 2 an attempt to hit by shooting or
throwing etc. (took a shot at him). 3 a a single non-explosive
missile for a cannon, gun, etc. b (pl. same or shots) a small
lead pellet used in quantity in a single charge or cartridge in
a shotgun. c (as pl.) these collectively. 4 a a photograph. b
a film sequence photographed continuously by one camera. 5 a a
stroke or a kick in a ball game. b colloq. an attempt to guess
or do something (let him have a shot at it). 6 colloq. a person
having a specified skill with a gun etc. (is not a good shot).
7 a heavy ball thrown by a shot-putter. 8 the launch of a space
rocket (a moonshot). 9 the range, reach, or distance to or at
which a thing will carry or act (out of earshot). 10 a remark
aimed at a person. 11 colloq. a a drink of esp. spirits. b an
injection of a drug, vaccine, etc. (has had his shots). Ьlike a
shot colloq. without hesitation; willingly. make a bad shot
guess wrong. not a shot in one's (or the) locker 1 no money
left. 2 not a chance left. shot-blasting the cleaning of metal
etc. by the impact of a stream of shot. shot-firer a person who
fires a blasting-charge in a mine etc. shot in the arm colloq.
1 stimulus or encouragement. 2 an alcoholic drink. shot in the
dark a mere guess. shot-put an athletic contest in which a shot
is thrown a great distance. shot-putter an athlete who puts the
shot. shot-tower hist. a tower in which shot was made from
molten lead poured through sieves at the top and falling into
water at the bottom. ЬЬshotproof adj. [OE sc(e)ot, gesc(e)ot
f. Gmc: cf. SHOOT]
shot(2) past and past part. of SHOOT. --adj. 1 (of coloured material)
woven so as to show different colours at different angles. 2
colloq. a exhausted; finished. b drunk. 3 (of a board-edge)
accurately planed. Ьbe (or get) shot of sl. be (or get) rid
of. shot through permeated or suffused. [past part. of SHOOT]
shot(3) n. colloq. a reckoning, a bill, esp. at an inn etc. (paid his
shot). [ME, = SHOT(1): cf. OE sceotan shoot, pay, contribute,
and SCOT]
shotgun n. a smooth-bore gun for firing small shot at short range.
Ьshotgun marriage (or wedding) colloq. an enforced or hurried
wedding, esp. because of the bride's pregnancy.
shotten herring
n. 1 a herring that has spawned. 2 archaic a weakened or
dispirited person. [ME, archaic past part. of SHOOT]
should v.aux. (3rd sing. should) past of SHALL, used esp.: 1 in
reported speech, esp. with the reported element in the 1st
person (I said I should be home by evening). ° Cf. WILL(1),
WOULD, now more common in this sense, esp. to avoid implications
of sense 2. 2 a to express a duty, obligation, or likelihood; =
OUGHT(1) (I should tell you; you should have been more careful;
they should have arrived by now). b (in the 1st person) to
express a tentative suggestion (I should like to say something).
3 a expressing the conditional mood in the 1st person (cf.
WOULD) (I should have been killed if I had gone). b forming a
conditional protasis or indefinite clause (if you should see
him; should they arrive, tell them where to go). 4 expressing
purpose = MAY, MIGHT(1) (in order that we should not worry).
shoulder n. & v. --n. 1 a the part of the body at which the arm,
foreleg, or wing is attached. b (in full shoulder joint) the
end of the upper arm joining with the collar-bone and
blade-bone. c either of the two projections below the neck from
which the arms depend. 2 the upper foreleg and shoulder blade
of a pig, lamb, etc. when butchered. 3 (in pl.) a the upper
part of the back and arms. b this part of the body regarded as
capable of bearing a burden or blame, providing comfort, etc.
(needs a shoulder to cry on). 4 a strip of land next to a
metalled road (pulled over on to the shoulder). 5 a part of a
garment covering the shoulder. 6 a part of anything resembling
a shoulder in form or function, as in a bottle, mountain, tool,
etc. --v. 1 a tr. push with the shoulder; jostle. b intr.
make one's way by jostling (shouldered through the crowd). 2
tr. take (a burden etc.) on one's shoulders (shouldered the
family's problems). Ьput (or set) one's shoulder to the wheel
make an effort. shoulder arms hold a rifle with the barrel
against the shoulder and the butt in the hand. shoulder-bag a
woman's handbag that can be hung from the shoulder.
shoulder-belt a bandolier or other strap passing over one
shoulder and under the opposite arm. shoulder-blade Anat.
either of the large flat bones of the upper back; the scapula.
shoulder-high up to or as high as the shoulders.
shoulder-holster a gun holster worn in the armpit.
shoulder-knot a knot of ribbon, metal, lace, etc. worn as part
of a ceremonial dress. shoulder-length (of hair etc.) reaching
to the shoulders. shoulder loop US the shoulder-strap of an
army, air-force, or marines officer. shoulder mark US the
shoulder-strap of a naval officer. shoulder-note Printing a
marginal note at the top of a page. shoulder-of-mutton sail =
leg-of-mutton sail. shoulder-pad a pad sewn into a garment to
bulk out the shoulder. shoulder-strap 1 a strip of fabric,
leather, etc. suspending a bag or garment from the shoulder. 2
a strip of cloth from shoulder to collar on a military uniform
bearing a symbol of rank etc. 3 a similar strip on a raincoat.
shoulder to shoulder 1 side by side. 2 with closed ranks or
united effort. ЬЬshouldered adj. (also in comb.). [OE sculdor
f. WG]
shouldn't contr. should not.
shout v. & n. --v. 1 intr. make a loud cry or vocal sound; speak
loudly (shouted for attention). 2 tr. say or express loudly;
call out (shouted that the coast was clear). 3 tr. (also
absol.) Austral. & NZ colloq. treat (another person) to drinks
etc. --n. 1 a loud cry expressing joy etc. or calling
attention. 2 colloq. one's turn to order a round of drinks etc.
(your shout I think). Ьall over bar (or but) the shouting
colloq. the contest is virtually decided. shout at speak
loudly to etc. shout down reduce to silence by shouting. shout
for call for by shouting. shout-up colloq. a noisy argument.
ЬЬshouter n. [ME, perh. rel. to SHOOT: cf. ON skЈta SCOUT]
shove v. & n. --v. 1 tr. (also absol.) push vigorously; move by hard
or rough pushing (shoved him out of the way). 2 intr. (usu.
foll. by along, past, through, etc.) make one's way by pushing
(shoved through the crowd). 3 tr. colloq. put somewhere
(shoved it in the drawer). --n. an act of shoving or of
prompting a person into action. Ьshove-halfpenny a form of
shovelboard played with coins etc. on a table esp. in licensed
premises. shove off 1 start from the shore in a boat. 2 sl.
depart; go away (told him to shove off). [OE scufan f. Gmc]
shovel n. & v. --n. 1 a a spadelike tool for shifting quantities of
coal, earth, etc., esp. having the sides curved upwards. b the
amount contained in a shovel; a shovelful. 2 a machine or part
of a machine having a similar form or function. --v.tr.
(shovelled, shovelling; US shoveled, shoveling) 1 shift or clear
(coal etc.) with or as if with a shovel. 2 colloq. move (esp.
food) in large quantities or roughly (shovelled peas into his
mouth). Ьshovel hat a broad-brimmed hat esp. worn by some
clergymen. ЬЬshovelful n. (pl. -fuls). [OE scofl f. Gmc (see
SHOVE)]
shovelboard
n. a game played esp. on a ship's deck by pushing discs with
the hand or with a long-handled shovel over a marked surface.
[earlier shoveboard f. SHOVE + BOARD]
shovelhead
n. a shark, Sphyrna tiburo, like the hammerhead but smaller.
Also called BONNETHEAD.
shoveller n. (also shoveler) 1 a person or thing that shovels. 2 a duck,
Anas clypeata, with a broad shovel-like beak. [SHOVEL: sense 2
earlier shovelard f. -ARD, perh. after mallard]
show v. & n. --v. (past part. shown or showed) 1 intr. & tr. be,
or allow or cause to be, visible; manifest; appear (the buds are
beginning to show; white shows the dirt). 2 tr. (often foll. by
to) offer, exhibit, or produce (a thing) for scrutiny etc. (show
your tickets please; showed him my poems). 3 tr. a indicate
(one's feelings) by one's behaviour etc. (showed mercy to him).
b indicate (one's feelings to a person etc.) (showed him
particular favour). 4 intr. (of feelings etc.) be manifest (his
dislike shows). 5 tr. a demonstrate; point out; prove (has
shown it to be false; showed that he knew the answer). b (usu.
foll. by how to + infin.) cause (a person) to understand or be
capable of doing (showed them how to knit). 6 tr. (refl.)
exhibit oneself as being (showed herself to be fair). 7 tr. &
intr. (with ref. to a film) be presented or cause to be
presented. 8 tr. exhibit (a picture, animal, flower, etc.) in a
show. 9 tr. (often foll. by in, out, up, etc.) conduct or lead
(showed them to their rooms). 10 intr. = show up 3 (waited but
he didn't show). 11 intr. US finish in the first three in a
race. --n. 1 the act or an instance of showing; the state of
being shown. 2 a a spectacle, display, exhibition, etc. (a fine
show of blossom). b a collection of things etc. shown for
public entertainment or in competition (dog show; flower show).
3 a a play etc., esp. a musical. b a light entertainment
programme on television etc. c any public entertainment or
performance. 4 a an outward appearance, semblance, or display
(made a show of agreeing; a show of strength). b empty
appearance; mere display (did it for show; that's all show). 5
colloq. an undertaking, business, etc. (sold the whole show). 6
colloq. an opportunity of acting, defending oneself, etc. (gave
him a fair show; made a good show of it). 7 Med. a discharge of
blood etc. from the vagina at the onset of childbirth. Ьgive
the show (or whole show) away demonstrate the inadequacies or
reveal the truth. good (or bad or poor) show! colloq. 1 that
was well (or badly) done. 2 that was lucky (or unlucky).
nothing to show for no visible result of (effort etc.). on show
being exhibited. show business colloq. the theatrical
profession. show-card a card used for advertising. show one's
cards = show one's hand. show cause Law allege with
justification. show a clean pair of heels colloq. retreat
speedily; run away. show one's colours make one's opinion
clear. show a person the door dismiss or eject a person. show
one's face make an appearance; let oneself be seen. show fight
be persistent or belligerent. show the flag see FLAG(1). show
forth archaic exhibit; expound. show one's hand 1 disclose
one's plans. 2 reveal one's cards. show house (or flat etc.) a
furnished and decorated house (or flat etc.) on a new estate
shown to prospective buyers. show in see sense 9 of v. show a
leg colloq. get out of bed. show off 1 display to advantage.
2 colloq. act pretentiously; display one's wealth, knowledge,
etc. show-off n. colloq. a person who shows off. show of
force proof that one is prepared to use force. show of hands
raised hands indicating a vote for or against, usu. without
being counted. show oneself 1 be seen in public. 2 see sense 6
of v. show out see sense 9 of v. show-piece 1 an item of work
presented for exhibition or display. 2 an outstanding example
or specimen. show-place a house etc. that tourists go to see.
show round take (a person) to places of interest; act as guide
for (a person) in a building etc. show-stopper colloq. a
performance receiving prolonged applause. show one's teeth
reveal one's strength; be aggressive. show through 1 be visible
although supposedly concealed. 2 (of real feelings etc.) be
revealed inadvertently. show trial esp. hist. a judicial
trial designed by the State to terrorize or impress the public.
show up 1 make or be conspicuous or clearly visible. 2 expose
(a fraud, impostor, inferiority, etc.). 3 colloq. appear; be
present; arrive. 4 colloq. embarrass or humiliate (don't show
me up by wearing jeans). show the way 1 indicate what has to be
done etc. by attempting it first. 2 show others which way to go
etc. show the white feather appear cowardly (see also white
feather). show willing display a willingness to help etc.
show-window a window for exhibiting goods etc. [ME f. OE
sceawian f. WG: cf. SHEEN]
showbiz n. colloq. = show business.
showboat n. US a river steamer on which theatrical performances are
given.
showcase n. & v. --n. 1 a glass case used for exhibiting goods etc. 2
a place or medium for presenting (esp. attractively) to general
attention. --v.tr. display in or as if in a showcase.
showdown n. 1 a final test or confrontation; a decisive situation. 2
the laying down face up of the players' cards in poker.
shower n. & v. --n. 1 a brief fall of esp. rain, hail, sleet, or
snow. 2 a a brisk flurry of arrows, bullets, dust, stones,
sparks, etc. b a similar flurry of gifts, letters, honours,
praise, etc. 3 (in full shower-bath) a a cubicle, bath, etc. in
which one stands under a spray of water. b the apparatus etc.
used for this. c the act of bathing in a shower. 4 a group of
particles initiated by a cosmic-ray particle in the earth's
atmosphere. 5 US a party for giving presents to a prospective
bride, etc. 6 Brit. sl. a contemptible or unpleasant person or
group of people. --v. 1 tr. discharge (water, missiles, etc.)
in a shower. 2 intr. use a shower-bath. 3 tr. (usu. foll. by
on, upon) lavishly bestow (gifts etc.). 4 intr. descend or come
in a shower (it showered on and off all day). ЬЬshowery adj.
[OE scur f. Gmc]
showerproof
adj. & v. --adj. resistant to light rain. --v.tr. render
showerproof.
showgirl n. an actress who sings and dances in musicals, variety shows,
etc.
showing n. 1 the act or an instance of showing. 2 a usu. specified
quality of performance (made a poor showing). 3 the
presentation of a case; evidence (on present showing it must be
true). [OE sceawung (as SHOW)]
showjumping
n. the sport of riding horses over a course of fences and other
obstacles, with penalty points for errors. ЬЬshowjump v.intr.
showjumper n.
showman n. (pl. -men) 1 the proprietor or manager of a circus etc. 2
a person skilled in self-advertisement or publicity.
ЬЬshowmanship n.
shown past part. of SHOW.
showroom n. a room in a factory, office building, etc. used to display
goods for sale.
shrapnel n. 1 fragments of a bomb etc. thrown out by an explosion. 2 a
shell containing bullets or pieces of metal timed to burst short
of impact. [Gen. H. Shrapnel, Brit. soldier d. 1842, inventor
of the shell]
shred n. & v. --n. 1 a scrap, fragment, or strip of esp. cloth,
paper, etc. 2 the least amount, remnant (not a shred of
evidence). --v.tr. (shredded, shredding) tear or cut into
shreds. Ьtear to shreds completely refute (an argument etc.).
[OE scread (unrecorded) piece cut off, screadian f. WG: see
SHROUD]
shredder n. 1 a machine used to reduce documents to shreds. 2 any
device used for shredding.
shrew n. 1 any small usu. insect-eating mouselike mammal of the
family Soricidae, with a long pointed snout. 2 a bad-tempered
or scolding woman. ЬЬshrewish adj. (in sense 2). shrewishly
adv. shrewishness n. [OE screawa, scr‘wa shrew-mouse: cf. OHG
scrawaz dwarf, MHG schrawaz etc. devil]
shrewd adj. 1 a showing astute powers of judgement; clever and
judicious (a shrewd observer; made a shrewd guess). b (of a
face etc.) shrewd-looking. 2 archaic a (of pain, cold, etc.)
sharp, biting. b (of a blow, thrust, etc.) severe, hard. c
mischievous; malicious. ЬЬshrewdly adv. shrewdness n. [ME, =
malignant, f. SHREW in sense 'evil person or thing', or past
part. of obs. shrew to curse, f. SHREW]
shriek v. & n. --v. 1 intr. a utter a shrill screeching sound or
words esp. in pain or terror. b (foll. by of) provide a clear
or blatant indication of. 2 tr. a utter (sounds or words) by
shrieking (shrieked his name). b indicate clearly or blatantly.
--n. a high-pitched piercing cry or sound; a scream. Ьshriek
out say in shrill tones. shriek with laughter laugh
uncontrollably. ЬЬshrieker n. [imit.: cf. dial. screak, ON
skr‘kja, and SCREECH]
shrieval adj. of or relating to a sheriff. [shrieve obs. var. of
SHERIFF]
shrievalty
n. (pl. -ies) 1 a sheriff's office or jurisdiction. 2 the
tenure of this. [as SHRIEVAL + -alty as in mayoralty etc.]
shrift n. archaic 1 confession to a priest. 2 confession and
absolution. Ьshort shrift 1 curt treatment. 2 archaic little
time between condemnation and execution or punishment. [OE
scrift (verbal noun) f. SHRIVE]
shrike n. any bird of the family Laniidae, with a strong hooked and
toothed bill, that impales its prey of small birds and insects
on thorns. Also called butcher-bird. [perh. rel. to OE scric
thrush, MLG schrik corncrake (imit.): cf. SHRIEK]
shrill adj. & v. --adj. 1 piercing and high-pitched in sound. 2
derog. (esp. of a protester) sharp, unrestrained, unreasoning.
--v. 1 intr. (of a cry etc.) sound shrilly. 2 tr. (of a person
etc.) utter or send out (a song, complaint, etc.) shrilly.
ЬЬshrilly adv. shrillness n. [ME, rel. to LG schrell sharp in
tone or taste f. Gmc]
shrimp n. & v. --n. 1 (pl. same or shrimps) any of various small
(esp. marine) edible crustaceans, with ten legs, grey-green when
alive and pink when boiled. 2 colloq. a very small slight
person. --v.intr. go catching shrimps. Ьshrimp plant an
evergreen shrub, Justicia brandegeana, bearing small white
flowers in clusters of pinkish-brown bracts. ЬЬshrimper n.
[ME, prob. rel. to MLG schrempen wrinkle, MHG schrimpfen
contract, and SCRIMP]
shrine n. & v. --n. 1 esp. RC Ch. a a chapel, church, altar, etc.,
sacred to a saint, holy person, relic, etc. b the tomb of a
saint etc. c a casket esp. containing sacred relics; a
reliquary. d a niche containing a holy statue etc. 2 a place
associated with or containing memorabilia of a particular
person, event, etc. 3 a Shinto place of worship. --v.tr.
poet. enshrine. [OE scrin f. Gmc f. L scrinium case for books
etc.]
shrink v. & n. --v. (past shrank; past part. shrunk or (esp. as
adj.) shrunken) 1 tr. & intr. make or become smaller; contract,
esp. by the action of moisture, heat, or cold. 2 intr. (usu.
foll. by from) a retire; recoil; flinch; cower (shrank from her
touch). b be averse from doing (shrinks from meeting them). 3
(as shrunken adj.) (esp. of a face, person, etc.) having grown
smaller esp. because of age, illness, etc. --n. 1 the act or
an instance of shrinking; shrinkage. 2 sl. a psychiatrist (from
'head-shrinker'). Ьshrinking violet an exaggeratedly shy
person. shrink into oneself become withdrawn. shrink on slip
(a metal tyre etc.) on while expanded with heat and allow to
tighten. shrink-resistant (of textiles etc.) resistant to
shrinkage when wet etc. shrink-wrap (-wrapped, -wrapping)
enclose (an article) in (esp. transparent) film that shrinks
tightly on to it. ЬЬshrinkable adj. shrinker n. shrinkingly
adv. shrink-proof adj. [OE scrincan: cf. skrynka to wrinkle]
shrinkage n. 1 a the process or fact of shrinking. b the degree or
amount of shrinking. 2 an allowance made for the reduction in
takings due to wastage, theft, etc.
shrive v.tr. (past shrove; past part. shriven) RC Ch. archaic 1 (of
a priest) hear the confession of, assign penance to, and
absolve. 2 (refl.) (of a penitent) submit oneself to a priest
for confession etc. [OE scrifan impose as penance, WG f. L
scribere write]
shrivel v.tr. & intr. (shrivelled, shrivelling or US shriveled,
shriveling) contract or wither into a wrinkled, folded,
rolled-up, contorted, or dried-up state. [perh. f. ON: cf. Sw.
dial. skryvla to wrinkle]
shriven past part. of SHRIVE.
shroud n. & v. --n. 1 a sheetlike garment for wrapping a corpse for
burial. 2 anything that conceals like a shroud (wrapped in a
shroud of mystery). 3 (in pl.) Naut. a set of ropes forming
part of the standing rigging and supporting the mast or topmast.
--v.tr. 1 clothe (a body) for burial. 2 cover, conceal, or
disguise (hills shrouded in mist). Ьshroud-laid (of a rope)
having four strands laid right-handed on a core. ЬЬshroudless
adj. [OE scrud f. Gmc: see SHRED]
shrove past of SHRIVE.
Shrovetide
n. Shrove Tuesday and the two days preceding it when it was
formerly customary to be shriven. [ME shrove abnormally f.
SHROVE]
Shrove Tuesday
n. the day before Ash Wednesday.
shrub(1) n. a woody plant smaller than a tree and having a very short
stem with branches near the ground. ЬЬshrubby adj. [ME f. OE
scrubb, scrybb shrubbery: cf. NFris. skrobb brushwood, WFlem.
schrobbe vetch, Norw. skrubba dwarf cornel, and SCRUB(2)]
shrub(2) n. a cordial made of sweetened fruit-juice and spirits, esp.
rum. [Arab. surb, sarab f. sariba to drink: cf. SHERBET,
SYRUP]
shrubbery n. (pl. -ies) an area planted with shrubs.
shrug v. & n. --v. (shrugged, shrugging) 1 intr. slightly and
momentarily raise the shoulders to express indifference,
helplessness, contempt, etc. 2 tr. a raise (the shoulders) in
this way. b shrug the shoulders to express (indifference etc.)
(shrugged his consent). --n. the act or an instance of
shrugging. Ьshrug off dismiss as unimportant etc. by or as if
by shrugging. [ME: orig. unkn.]
shrunk (also shrunken) past part. of SHRINK.
shtick n. sl. a theatrical routine, gimmick, etc. [Yiddish f. G
StЃck piece]
shuck n. & v. US --n. 1 a husk or pod. 2 the shell of an oyster or
clam. 3 (in pl.) colloq. an expression of contempt or regret or
self-deprecation in response to praise. --v.tr. remove the
shucks of; shell. ЬЬshucker n. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
shudder v. & n. --v.intr. 1 shiver esp. convulsively from fear, cold,
repugnance, etc. 2 feel strong repugnance etc. (shudder to
think what might happen). 3 (of a machine etc.) vibrate or
quiver. --n. 1 the act or an instance of shuddering. 2 (in
pl.; prec. by the) colloq. a state of shuddering.
ЬЬshudderingly adv. shuddery adj. [ME shod(d)er f. MDu.
schuderen, MLG schoderen f. Gmc]
shuffle v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. move with a scraping, sliding, or
dragging motion (shuffles along; shuffling his feet). 2 tr. a
(also absol.) rearrange (a pack of cards) by sliding them over
each other quickly. b rearrange; intermingle; confuse (shuffled
the documents). 3 tr. (usu. foll. by on, off, into) assume or
remove (clothes, a burden, etc.) esp. clumsily or evasively
(shuffled on his clothes; shuffled off responsibility). 4 intr.
a equivocate; prevaricate. b continually shift one's position;
fidget. 5 intr. (foll. by out of) escape evasively (shuffled
out of the blame). --n. 1 a shuffling movement. 2 the act or
an instance of shuffling cards. 3 a general change of relative
positions. 4 a piece of equivocation; sharp practice. 5 a
quick scraping movement of the feet in dancing (see also double
shuffle). Ьshuffle-board = SHOVELBOARD. shuffle the cards
change policy etc. ЬЬshuffler n. [perh. f. LG schuffeln walk
clumsily f. Gmc: cf. SHOVE]
shufti n. (pl. shuftis) Brit. colloq. a look or glimpse. [Arab.
saffa try to see]
shun v.tr. (shunned, shunning) avoid; keep clear of (shuns human
company). [OE scunian, of unkn. orig.]
shunt v. & n. --v. 1 intr. & tr. diverge or cause (a train) to be
diverted esp. on to a siding. 2 tr. Electr. provide (a
current) with a shunt. 3 tr. a postpone or evade. b divert (a
decision etc.) on to another person etc. --n. 1 the act or an
instance of shunting on to a siding. 2 Electr. a conductor
joining two points of a circuit, through which more or less of a
current may be diverted. 3 Surgery an alternative path for the
circulation of the blood. 4 sl. a motor accident, esp. a
collision of vehicles travelling one close behind another.
ЬЬshunter n. [ME, perh. f. SHUN]
shush int. & v. --int. = HUSH int. --v. 1 intr. a call for silence
by saying shush. b be silent (they shushed at once). 2 tr.
make or attempt to make silent. [imit.]
shut v. (shutting; past and past part. shut) 1 tr. a move (a door,
window, lid, lips, etc.) into position so as to block an
aperture (shut the lid). b close or seal (a room, window, box,
eye, mouth, etc.) by moving a door etc. (shut the box). 2 intr.
become or be capable of being closed or sealed (the door shut
with a bang; the lid shuts automatically). 3 intr. & tr. become
or make (a shop, business, etc.) closed for trade (the shops
shut at five; shuts his shop at five). 4 tr. bring (a book,
hand, telescope, etc.) into a folded-up or contracted state. 5
tr. (usu. foll. by in, out) keep (a person, sound, etc.) in or
out of a room etc. by shutting a door etc. (shut out the noise;
shut them in). 6 tr. (usu. foll. by in) catch (a finger, dress,
etc.) by shutting something on it (shut her finger in the door).
7 tr. bar access to (a place etc.) (this entrance is shut). Ьbe
(or get) shut of sl. be (or get) rid of (were glad to get shut
of him). shut the door on refuse to consider; make impossible.
shut down 1 stop (a factory, nuclear reactor, etc.) from
operating. 2 (of a factory etc.) stop operating. 3 push or
pull (a window-sash etc.) down into a closed position.
shut-down n. the closure of a factory etc. shut-eye colloq.
sleep. shut one's eyes (or ears or heart or mind) to pretend
not, or refuse, to see (or hear or feel sympathy for or think
about). shut in (of hills, houses, etc.) encircle, prevent
access etc. to or escape from (were shut in by the sea on three
sides) (see also sense 5). shut off 1 stop the flow of (water,
gas, etc.) by shutting a valve. 2 separate from society etc.
shut-off n. 1 something used for stopping an operation. 2 a
cessation of flow, supply, or activity. shut out 1 exclude (a
person, light, etc.) from a place, situation, etc. 2 screen
(landscape etc.) from view. 3 prevent (a possibility etc.). 4
block (a painful memory etc.) from the mind. 5 US prevent (an
opponent) from scoring (see also sense 5). shut-out bid Bridge
a pre-emptive bid. shut to 1 close (a door etc.). 2 (of a door
etc.) close as far as it will go. shut up 1 close all doors and
windows of (a house etc.); bolt and bar. 2 imprison (a person).
3 close (a box etc.) securely. 4 colloq. reduce to silence by
rebuke etc. 5 put (a thing) away in a box etc. 6 (esp. in
imper.) colloq. stop talking. shut up shop 1 close a business,
shop, etc. 2 cease business etc. permanently. shut your face
(or head or mouth or trap)! sl. an impolite request to stop
talking. [OE scyttan f. WG: cf. SHOOT]
shutter n. & v. --n. 1 a person or thing that shuts. 2 a each of a
pair or set of panels fixed inside or outside a window for
security or privacy or to keep the light in or out. b a
structure of slats on rollers used for the same purpose. 3 a
device that exposes the film in a photographic camera. 4 Mus.
the blind of a swell-box in an organ used for controlling the
sound-level. --v.tr. 1 put up the shutters of. 2 provide with
shutters. Ьput up the shutters 1 cease business for the day. 2
cease business etc. permanently. ЬЬshutterless adj.
shuttering
n. 1 a temporary structure usu. of wood, used to hold concrete
during setting. 2 material for making shutters.
shuttle n. & v. --n. 1 a a bobbin with two pointed ends used for
carrying the weft-thread across between the warp-threads in
weaving. b a bobbin carrying the lower thread in a
sewing-machine. 2 a train, bus, etc., going to and fro over a
short route continuously. 3 = SHUTTLECOCK. 4 = space shuttle.
--v. 1 intr. & tr. move or cause to move to and fro like a
shuttle. 2 intr. travel in a shuttle. Ьshuttle armature
Electr. an armature with a single coil wound on an elongated
iron bobbin. shuttle diplomacy negotiations conducted by a
mediator who travels successively to several countries. shuttle
service a train or bus etc. service operating to and fro over a
short route. [OE scytel dart f. Gmc: cf. SHOOT]
shuttlecock
n. 1 a cork with a ring of feathers, or a similar device of
plastic, used instead of a ball in badminton and in battledore
and shuttlecock. 2 a thing passed repeatedly back and forth.
[SHUTTLE + COCK(1), prob. f. the flying motion]
shy(1) adj., v., & n. --adj. (shyer, shyest or shier, shiest) 1 a
diffident or uneasy in company; timid. b (of an animal, bird,
etc.) easily startled; timid. 2 (foll. by of) avoiding; chary
of (shy of his aunt; shy of going to meetings). 3 (in comb.)
showing fear of or distaste for (gun-shy; work-shy). 4 (often
foll. by of, on) colloq. having lost; short of (I'm shy three
quid; shy of the price of admission). --v.intr. (shies, shied)
1 (usu. foll. by at) (esp. of a horse) start suddenly aside (at
an object, noise, etc.) in fright. 2 (usu. foll. by away from,
at) avoid accepting or becoming involved in (a proposal etc.) in
alarm. --n. a sudden startled movement. ЬЬshyer n. shyly adv.
(also shily). shyness n. [OE sceoh f. Gmc]
shy(2) v. & n. --v.tr. (shies, shied) (also absol.) fling or throw (a
stone etc.). --n. the act or an instance of shying. Ьhave a
shy at colloq. 1 try to hit with a stone etc. 2 make an
attempt at. 3 jeer at. ЬЬshyer n. [18th c.: orig. unkn.]
Shylock n. a hard-hearted money-lender; a miser. [character in
Shakesp. Merchant of Venice]
shyster n. esp. US colloq. a person, esp. a lawyer, who uses
unscrupulous methods. [19th c.: orig. uncert.]
SI abbr. 1 (Order of the) Star of India. 2 the international
system of units of measurement (F SystЉme International).
Si symb. Chem. the element silicon.
si n. Mus. = TE. [F f. It., perh. f. the initials of Sancte
Iohannes: see GAMUT]
sialogogue
n. & adj. --n. a medicine inducing the flow of saliva. --adj.
inducing such a flow. [F f. Gk sialon saliva + agogos leading]
siamang n. a large black gibbon, Hylobates syndactylus, native to
Sumatra and the Malay peninsula. [Malay]
Siamese n. & adj. --n. (pl. same) 1 a a native of Siam (now Thailand)
in SE Asia. b the language of Siam. 2 (in full Siamese cat) a
a cat of a cream-coloured short-haired breed with a brown face
and ears and blue eyes. b this breed. --adj. of or concerning
Siam, its people, or language. ЬSiamese twins 1 twins joined at
any part of the body and sometimes sharing organs etc. 2 any
closely associated pair.
sib n. & adj. --n. 1 a brother or sister (cf. SIBLING). 2 a
blood relative. 3 a group of people recognized by an individual
as his or her kindred. --adj. (usu. foll. by to) esp. Sc.
related; akin. [OE sib(b)]
Siberian n. & adj. --n. 1 a native of Siberia in the northern Soviet
Union. 2 a person of Siberian descent. --adj. of or relating
to Siberia.
sibilant adj. & n. --adj. 1 (of a letter or set of letters, as s, sh)
sounded with a hiss. 2 hissing (a sibilant whisper). --n. a
sibilant letter or letters. ЬЬsibilance n. sibilancy n. [L
sibilare sibilant- hiss]
sibilate v.tr. & intr. pronounce with or utter a hissing sound.
ЬЬsibilation n.
sibling n. each of two or more children having one or both parents in
common. [SIB + -LING(1)]
sibship n. 1 the state of belonging to a sib or the same sib. 2 a
group of children having the same two parents.
sibyl n. 1 any of the women in ancient times supposed to utter the
oracles and prophecies of a god. 2 a prophetess,
fortune-teller, or witch. [ME f. OF Sibile or med.L Sibilla f.
L Sibylla f. Gk Sibulla]
sibylline adj. 1 of or from a sibyl. 2 oracular; prophetic. Ьthe
Sibylline books a collection of oracles belonging to the ancient
Roman State and used for guidance by magistrates etc. [L
Sibyllinus (as SIBYL)]
sic adv. (usu. in brackets) used, spelt, etc., as written
(confirming, or calling attention to, the form of quoted or
copied words). [L, = so, thus]
siccative n. & adj. --n. a substance causing drying, esp. mixed with
oil-paint etc. for quick drying. --adj. having such properties.
[LL siccativus f. siccare to dry]
sice(1) n. the six on dice. [ME f. OF sis f. L sex six]
sice(2) var. of SYCE.
Sicilian n. & adj. --n. 1 a native of Sicily, an island off the S.
coast of Italy. 2 a person of Sicilian descent. --adj. of or
relating to Sicily. [L Sicilia Sicily]
siciliano n. (pl. -os) (also siciliana) a dance, song, or instrumental
piece in 6/8 or 12/8 time, often in a minor key, and evoking a
pastoral mood. [It., = Sicilian]
sick(1) adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 (often in comb.) esp. Brit. vomiting
or tending to vomit (feels sick; has been sick; seasick). 2
esp. US ill; affected by illness (has been sick for a week; a
sick man; sick with measles). 3 a (often foll. by at) esp.
mentally perturbed; disordered (the product of a sick mind; sick
at heart). b (often foll. by for, or in comb.) pining; longing
(sick for a sight of home; lovesick). 4 (often foll. by of)
colloq. a disgusted; surfeited (sick of chocolates). b angry,
esp. because of surfeit (am sick of being teased). 5 colloq.
(of humour etc.) jeering at misfortune, illness, death, etc.;
morbid (sick joke). 6 (of a ship) needing repair (esp. of a
specified kind) (paint-sick). --n. Brit. colloq. vomit.
--v.tr. (usu. foll. by up) Brit. colloq. vomit (sicked up his
dinner). Ьgo sick report oneself as ill. look sick colloq. be
unimpressive or embarrassed. sick at (or to) one's stomach US
vomiting or tending to vomit. sick-benefit Brit. an allowance
made by the State to a person absent from work through sickness.
sick building syndrome a high incidence of illness in office
workers, attributed to the immediate working surroundings.
sick-call 1 a visit by a doctor to a sick person etc. 2 Mil. a
summons for sick men to attend. sick-flag a yellow flag
indicating disease at a quarantine station or on ship. sick
headache a migraine headache with vomiting. sick-leave leave of
absence granted because of illness. sick-list a list of the
sick, esp. in a regiment, ship, etc. sick-making colloq.
sickening. sick nurse = NURSE. sick-pay pay given to an
employee etc. on sick-leave. take sick colloq. be taken ill.
ЬЬsickish adj. [OE seoc f. Gmc]
sick(2) v.tr. (usu. in imper.) (esp. to a dog) set upon (a rat etc.).
[19th c., dial. var. of SEEK]
sickbay n. 1 part of a ship used as a hospital. 2 any room etc. for
sick people.
sickbed n. 1 an invalid's bed. 2 the state of being an invalid.
sicken v. 1 tr. affect with loathing or disgust. 2 intr. a (often
foll. by for) show symptoms of illness (is sickening for
measles). b (often foll. by at, or to + infin.) feel nausea or
disgust (he sickened at the sight). 3 (as sickening adj.) a
loathsome, disgusting. b colloq. very annoying. ЬЬsickeningly
adv.
sickie n. Austral. & NZ colloq. a period of sick-leave, usu. taken
with insufficient medical reason.
sickle n. 1 a short-handled farming tool with a semicircular blade,
used for cutting corn, lopping, or trimming. 2 anything
sickle-shaped, esp. the crescent moon. Ьsickle-bill any of
various curlews with a sickle-shaped bill. sickle-cell a
sickle-shaped blood-cell, esp. as found in a type of severe
hereditary anaemia. sickle-feather each of the long middle
feathers of a cock's tail. [OE sicol, sicel f. L secula f.
secare cut]
sickly adj. (sicklier, sickliest) 1 a of weak health; apt to be ill.
b (of a person's complexion, look, etc.) languid, faint, or
pale, suggesting sickness (a sickly smile). c (of light or
colour) faint, pale, feeble. 2 causing ill health (a sickly
climate). 3 (of a book etc.) sentimental or mawkish. 4
inducing or connected with nausea (a sickly taste). 5 (of a
colour etc.) of an unpleasant shade inducing nausea (a sickly
green). ЬЬsickliness n. [ME, prob. after ON sjukligr (as
SICK(1))]
sickness n. 1 the state of being ill; disease. 2 a specified disease
(sleeping sickness). 3 vomiting or a tendency to vomit.
Ьsickness benefit (in the UK) benefit paid by the State for
sickness interrupting paid employment. [OE seocnesse (as
SICK(1), -NESS)]
sickroom n. 1 a room occupied by a sick person. 2 a room adapted for
sick people.
sidalcea n. any mallow-like plant of the genus Sidalcea, bearing racemes
of white, pink, or purple flowers. [mod.L f. Sida + Alcea,
names of related genera]
side n. & v. --n. 1 a each of the more or less flat surfaces
bounding an object (a cube has six sides; this side up). b a
more or less vertical inner or outer plane or surface (the side
of a house; a mountainside). c such a vertical lateral surface
or plane as distinct from the top or bottom, front or back, or
ends (at the side of the house). 2 a the half of a person or
animal that is on the right or the left, esp. of the torso (has
a pain in his right side). b the left or right half or a
specified part of a thing, area, building, etc. (put the box on
that side). c (often in comb.) a position next to a person or
thing (grave-side; seaside; stood at my side). d a specified
direction relating to a person or thing (on the north side of;
came from all sides). e half of a butchered carcass (a side of
bacon). 3 a either surface of a thing regarded as having two
surfaces. b the amount of writing needed to fill one side of a
sheet of paper (write three sides). 4 any of several aspects of
a question, character, etc. (many sides to his character; look
on the bright side). 5 a each of two sets of opponents in war,
politics, games, etc. (the side that bats first; much to be
said on both sides). b a cause or philosophical position etc.
regarded as being in conflict with another (on the side of
right). 6 a a part or region near the edge and remote from the
centre (at the side of the room). b (attrib.) a subordinate,
peripheral, or detached part (a side-road; a side-table). 7 a
each of the bounding lines of a plane rectilinear figure (a
hexagon has six sides). b each of two quantities stated to be
equal in an equation. 8 a position nearer or farther than, or
right or left of, a dividing line (on this side of the Alps; on
the other side of the road). 9 a line of hereditary descent
through the father or the mother. 10 (in full side spin) Brit.
a spinning motion given to a billiard-ball etc. by hitting it on
one side, not centrally. 11 Brit. sl. boastfulness; swagger
(has no side about him). 12 Brit. colloq. a television channel
(shall we try another side?). --v.intr. (usu. foll. by with)
take part or be on the same side as a disputant etc. (sided with
his father). Ьby the side of 1 close to. 2 compared with.
from side to side 1 right across. 2 alternately each way from a
central line. let the side down fail one's colleagues, esp. by
frustrating their efforts or embarrassing them. on one side 1
not in the main or central position. 2 aside (took him on one
side to explain). on the ... side fairly, somewhat (qualifying
an adjective: on the high side). on the side 1 as a sideline;
in addition to one's regular work etc. 2 secretly or illicitly.
3 US as a side dish. on this side of the grave in life.
side-arms swords, bayonets, or pistols. side-band a range of
frequencies near the carrier frequency of a radio wave,
concerned in modulation. side-bet a bet between opponents, esp.
in card-games, over and above the ordinary stakes. side-bone
either of the small forked bones under the wings of poultry.
side by side standing close together, esp. for mutual support.
side-car 1 a small car for a passenger or passengers attached to
the side of a motor cycle. 2 a cocktail of orange liqueur,
lemon juice, and brandy. 3 a jaunting car. side-chapel a
chapel in the aisle or at the side of a church. side dish an
extra dish subsidiary to the main course. side-door 1 a door in
or at the side of a building. 2 an indirect means of access.
side-drum a small double-headed drum in a jazz or military band
or in an orchestra (orig. hung at the drummer's side).
side-effect a secondary, usu. undesirable, effect. side-glance
a sideways or brief glance. side-issue a point that distracts
attention from what is important. side-note a marginal note.
side-on adv. from the side. --adj. 1 from or towards one
side. 2 (of a collision) involving the side of a vehicle.
side-road a minor or subsidiary road, esp. joining or diverging
from a main road. side-saddle n. a saddle for a woman rider
with both feet on the same side of the horse. --adv. sitting in
this position on a horse. side salad a salad served as a side
dish. side-seat a seat in a vehicle etc. in which the occupant
has his back to the side of the vehicle. side-slip n. 1 a
skid. 2 Aeron. a sideways movement instead of forward.
--v.intr. 1 skid. 2 Aeron. move sideways instead of forward.
side-splitting causing violent laughter. side-street a minor or
subsidiary street. side-stroke 1 a stroke towards or from a
side. 2 an incidental action. 3 a swimming stroke in which the
swimmer lies on his or her side. side-swipe n. 1 a glancing
blow along the side. 2 incidental criticism etc. --v.tr. hit
with or as if with a side-swipe. side-table a table placed at
the side of a room or apart from the main table. side-trip a
minor excursion during a voyage or trip; a detour. side valve a
valve in a vehicle engine, operated from the side of the
cylinder. side-view 1 a view obtained sideways. 2 a profile.
side-wheeler US a steamer with paddle-wheels. side-whiskers
whiskers growing on the cheeks. side wind 1 wind from the side.
2 an indirect agency or influence. take sides support one or
other cause etc. ЬЬsideless adj. [OE side f. Gmc]
sideboard n. a table or esp. a flat-topped cupboard at the side of a
dining-room for supporting and containing dishes, table linen,
decanters, etc.
sideboards
n.pl. Brit. colloq. hair grown by a man down the sides of his
face; side-whiskers.
sideburns n.pl. = SIDEBOARDS. [burnsides pl. of burnside f. General
Burnside d. 1881 who affected this style]
sided adj. 1 having sides. 2 (in comb.) having a specified side or
sides (one-sided). ЬЬ-sidedly adv. sidedness n. (also in
comb.).
sidehill n. US a hillside.
sidekick n. colloq. a close associate.
sidelight n. 1 a light from the side. 2 incidental information etc. 3
Brit. a light at the side of the front of a motor vehicle to
warn of its presence. 4 Naut. the red port or green starboard
light on a ship under way.
sideline n. & v. --n. 1 work etc. done in addition to one's main
activity. 2 (usu. in pl.) a a line bounding the side of a
hockey-pitch, tennis-court, etc. b the space next to these
where spectators etc. sit. --v.tr. US remove (a player) from a
team through injury, suspension, etc. Ьon (or from) the
sidelines in (or from) a position removed from the main action.
sidelong adj. & adv. --adj. inclining to one side; oblique (a sidelong
glance). --adv. obliquely (moved sidelong). [sideling (as
SIDE, -LING(2)): see -LONG]
sidereal adj. of or concerning the constellations or fixed stars.
Ьsidereal clock a clock showing sidereal time. sidereal day the
time between successive meridional transits of a star or esp.
of the first point of Aries, about four minutes shorter than the
solar day. sidereal time time measured by the apparent diurnal
motion of the stars. sidereal year a year longer than the solar
year by 20 minutes 23 seconds because of precession. [L
sidereus f. sidus sideris star]
siderite n. 1 a mineral form of ferrous carbonate. 2 a meteorite
consisting mainly of nickel and iron. [Gk sideros iron]
siderostat
n. an instrument used for keeping the image of a celestial body
in a fixed position. [L sidus sideris star, after heliostat]
sideshow n. 1 a minor show or attraction in an exhibition or
entertainment. 2 a minor incident or issue.
sidesman n. (pl. -men) an assistant churchwarden, who shows worshippers
to their seats, takes the collection, etc.
sidestep n. & v. --n. a step taken sideways. --v.tr. (-stepped,
-stepping) 1 esp. Football avoid (esp. a tackle) by stepping
sideways. 2 evade. ЬЬsidestepper n.
sidetrack n. & v. --n. a railway siding. --v.tr. 1 turn into a siding;
shunt. 2 a postpone, evade, or divert treatment or
consideration. b divert (a person) from considering etc.
sidewalk n. US a pedestrian path at the side of a road; a pavement.
sideways adv. & adj. --adv. 1 to or from a side (moved sideways). 2
with one side facing forward (sat sideways on the bus). --adj.
to or from a side (a sideways movement). ЬЬsidewise adv. & adj.
sidewinder
n. 1 a desert rattlesnake, Crotalus cerastes, native to N.
America, moving with a lateral motion. 2 US a sideways blow.
siding n. 1 a short track at the side of and opening on to a railway
line, used for shunting trains. 2 US cladding material for the
outside of a building.
sidle v. & n. --v.intr. (usu. foll. by along, up) walk in a timid,
furtive, stealthy, or cringing manner. --n. the act or an
instance of sidling. [back-form. f. sideling, SIDELONG]
SIDS abbr. sudden infant death syndrome; = cot-death (see COT(1)).
siege n. 1 a a military operation in which an attacking force seeks
to compel the surrender of a fortified place by surrounding it
and cutting off supplies etc. b a similar operation by police
etc. to force the surrender of an armed person. c the period
during which a siege lasts. 2 a persistent attack or campaign
of persuasion. Ьlay siege to esp. Mil. conduct the siege of.
raise the siege of abandon or cause the abandonment of an
attempt to take (a place) by siege. siege-gun hist. a heavy
gun used in sieges. siege-train artillery and other equipment
for a siege, with vehicles etc. [ME f. OF sege seat f.
assegier BESIEGE]
siemens n. Electr. the SI unit of conductance, equal to one reciprocal
ohm. °Abbr.: S. [W. von Siemens, Ger. electrical engineer, d.
1892]
sienna n. 1 a kind of ferruginous earth used as a pigment in paint. 2
its colour of yellowish-brown (raw sienna) or reddish-brown
(burnt sienna). [It. (terra di) Sienna (earth of) Siena in
Tuscany]
sierra n. a long jagged mountain chain, esp. in Spain or Spanish
America. [Sp. f. L serra saw]
siesta n. an afternoon sleep or rest esp. in hot countries. [Sp. f. L
sexta (hora) sixth hour]
sieve n. & v. --n. a utensil having a perforated or meshed bottom for
separating solids or coarse material from liquids or fine
particles, or for reducing a soft solid to a fine pulp. --v.tr.
1 put through or sift with a sieve. 2 examine (evidence etc.)
to select or separate. Ьhead like a sieve colloq. a memory
that retains little. ЬЬsievelike adj. [OE sife f. WG]
siffleur n. (fem. siffleuse) a professional whistler. [F f. siffler
whistle]
sift v. 1 tr. sieve (material) into finer and coarser parts. 2 tr.
(usu. foll. by from, out) separate (finer or coarser parts) from
material. 3 tr. sprinkle (esp. sugar) from a perforated
container. 4 tr. examine (evidence, facts, etc.) in order to
assess authenticity etc. 5 intr. (of snow, light, etc.) fall as
if from a sieve. Ьsift through examine by sifting. ЬЬsifter n.
(also in comb.). [OE siftan f. WG]
Sig. abbr. Signor.
sigh v. & n. --v. 1 intr. emit a long deep audible breath
expressive of sadness, weariness, longing, relief, etc. 2 intr.
(foll. by for) yearn for (a lost person or thing). 3 tr. utter
or express with sighs ('Never!' he sighed). 4 intr. (of the
wind etc.) make a sound like sighing. --n. 1 the act or an
instance of sighing. 2 a sound made in sighing (a sigh of
relief). [ME sihen etc., prob. back-form. f. sihte past of
sihen f. OE sican]
sight n. & v. --n. 1 a the faculty of seeing with the eyes (lost his
sight). b the act or an instance of seeing; the state of being
seen. 2 a thing seen; a display, show, or spectacle (not a
pretty sight; a beautiful sight). 3 a way of looking at or
considering a thing (in my sight he can do no wrong). 4 a range
of space within which a person etc. can see or an object be seen
(he's out of sight; they are just coming into sight). 5 (usu.
in pl.) noteworthy features of a town, area, etc. (went to see
the sights). 6 a a device on a gun or optical instrument used
for assisting the precise aim or observation. b the aim or
observation so gained (got a sight of him). 7 colloq. a person
or thing having a ridiculous, repulsive, or dishevelled
appearance (looked a perfect sight). 8 colloq. a great quantity
(will cost a sight of money; is a sight better than he was).
--v.tr. 1 get sight of, esp. by approaching (they sighted
land). 2 observe the presence of (esp. aircraft, animals, etc.)
(sighted buffalo). 3 take observations of (a star etc.) with an
instrument. 4 a provide (a gun, quadrant, etc.) with sights. b
adjust the sight of (a gun etc.). c aim (a gun etc.) with
sights. Ьat first sight on first glimpse or impression. at (or
on) sight as soon as a person or a thing has been seen (plays
music at sight; liked him on sight). catch (or lose) sight of
begin (or cease) to see or be aware of. get a sight of manage
to see; glimpse. have lost sight of no longer know the
whereabouts of. in sight 1 visible. 2 near at hand (salvation
is in sight). in (or within) sight of so as to see or be seen
from. lower one's sights become less ambitious. out of my
sight! go at once! out of sight 1 not visible. 2 colloq.
excellent; delightful. out of sight out of mind we forget the
absent. put out of sight hide, ignore. set one's sights on aim
at (set her sights on a directorship). sight for the gods (or
sight for sore eyes) a welcome person or thing, esp. a visitor.
sight-glass a transparent device for observing the interior of
apparatus etc. sighting shot an experimental shot to guide
riflemen in adjusting their sights. sight-line a hypothetical
line from a person's eye to what is seen. sight-read (past and
past part. -read) read and perform (music) at sight.
sight-reader a person who sight-reads. sight-screen Cricket a
large white screen on wheels placed near the boundary in line
with the wicket to help the batsman see the ball. sight-sing
sing (music) at sight. sight unseen without previous
inspection. ЬЬsighter n. [OE (ge)sihth]
sighted adj. 1 capable of seeing; not blind. 2 (in comb.) having a
specified kind of sight (long-sighted).
sightly adj. attractive to the sight; not unsightly. ЬЬsightliness n.
sightseer n. a person who visits places of interest; a tourist.
ЬЬsightsee v.intr. & tr. sightseeing n.
sightworthy
adj. worth seeing.
sigillate adj. 1 (of pottery) having impressed patterns. 2 Bot. having
seal-like marks. [L sigillatus f. sigillum seal dimin. of
signum sign]
siglum n. (pl. sigla) a letter (esp. an initial) or other symbol used
to denote a word in a book, esp. to refer to a particular text.
[LL sigla (pl.), perh. f. singula neut. pl. of singulus single]
sigma n. the eighteenth letter of the Greek alphabet. [L f. Gk]
sigmate adj. 1 sigma-shaped. 2 S-shaped.
sigmoid adj. & n. --adj. 1 curved like the uncial sigma;
crescent-shaped. 2 S-shaped. --n. (in full sigmoid flexure)
Anat. the curved part of the intestine between the colon and the
rectum. [Gk sigmoeides (as SIGMA)]
sign n. & v. --n. 1 a a thing indicating or suggesting a quality or
state etc.; a thing perceived as indicating a future state or
occurrence (violence is a sign of weakness; shows all the signs
of decay). b a miracle evidencing supernatural power; a portent
(did signs and wonders). 2 a a mark, symbol, or device used to
represent something or to distinguish the thing on which it is
put (marked the jar with a sign). b a technical symbol used in
algebra, music, etc. (a minus sign; a repeat sign). 3 a gesture
or action used to convey information, an order, request, etc.
(gave him a sign to leave; conversed by signs). 4 a publicly
displayed board etc. giving information; a signboard or
signpost. 5 any objective evidence of a disease, usu. specified
(Babinski's sign). 6 a password (advanced and gave the sign).
7 any of the twelve divisions of the zodiac, named from the
constellations formerly situated in them (the sign of Cancer).
8 US the trail of a wild animal. 9 Math. etc. the positiveness
or negativeness of a quantity. --v. 1 tr. a (also absol.)
write (one's name, initials, etc.) on a document etc. indicating
that one has authorized it. b write one's name etc. on (a
document) as authorization. 2 intr. & tr. communicate by
gesture (signed to me to come; signed their assent). 3 tr. &
intr. engage or be engaged by signing a contract etc. (see also
sign on, sign up). 4 tr. mark with a sign (esp. with the sign
of the cross in baptism). Ьmake no sign seem unconscious; not
protest. sign and countersign secret words etc. used as
passwords. sign away convey (one's right, property, etc.) by
signing a deed etc. sign for acknowledge receipt of by signing.
sign language a system of communication by visual gestures, used
esp. by the deaf. sign of the cross a Christian sign made in
blessing or prayer, by tracing a cross from the forehead to the
chest and to each shoulder, or in the air. sign off 1 end work,
broadcasting, a letter, etc., esp. by writing or speaking one's
name. 2 a end a period of employment, contract, etc. b end the
period of employment or contract of (a person). 3 Brit. stop
receiving unemployment benefit after finding work. 4 Bridge
indicate by a conventional bid that one is seeking to end the
bidding. sign-off n. Bridge such a bid. sign of the times a
portent etc. showing a likely trend. sign on 1 agree to a
contract, employment, etc. 2 begin work, broadcasting, etc.,
esp. by writing or announcing one's name. 3 employ (a person).
4 Brit. register as unemployed. sign-painter (or -writer) a
person who paints signboards etc. sign up 1 engage or employ (a
person). 2 enlist in the armed forces. 3 a commit (another
person or oneself) by signing etc. (signed you up for dinner).
b enrol (signed up for evening classes). ЬЬsignable adj.
signer n. [ME f. OF signe, signer f. L signum, signare]
signal(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a a usu. prearranged sign conveying
information, guidance, etc. esp. at a distance (waved as a
signal to begin). b a message made up of such signs (signals
made with flags). 2 an immediate occasion or cause of movement,
action, etc. (the uprising was a signal for repression). 3
Electr. a an electrical impulse or impulses or radio waves
transmitted as a signal. b a sequence of these. 4 a light,
semaphore, etc., on a railway giving instructions or warnings to
train-drivers etc. 5 Bridge a prearranged mode of bidding or
play to convey information to one's partner. --v. (signalled,
signalling; US signaled, signaling) 1 intr. make signals. 2 tr.
a (often foll. by to + infin.) make signals to; direct. b
transmit (an order, information, etc.) by signal; announce
(signalled her agreement; signalled that the town had been
taken). Ьsignal-book a list of signals arranged for sending
esp. naval and military messages. signal-box Brit. a building
beside a railway track from which signals are controlled.
signal of distress esp. Naut. an appeal for help, esp. from a
ship by firing guns. signal-tower US = signal-box. ЬЬsignaller
n. [ME f. OF f. Rmc & med.L signale neut. of LL signalis f. L
signum SIGN]
signal(2) adj. remarkably good or bad; noteworthy (a signal victory).
ЬЬsignally adv. [F signal‚ f. It. past part. segnalato
distinguished f. segnale SIGNAL(1)]
signalize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 make noteworthy or remarkable. 2 lend
distinction or lustre to. 3 indicate.
signalman n. (pl. -men) 1 a railway employee responsible for operating
signals and points. 2 a person who displays or receives naval
etc. signals.
signary n. (pl. -ies) a list of signs constituting the syllabic or
alphabetic symbols of a language. [L signum SIGN + -ARY(1),
after syllabary]
signatory n. & adj. --n. (pl. -ies) a party or esp. a State that has
signed an agreement or esp. a treaty. --adj. having signed
such an agreement etc. [L signatorius of sealing f. signare
signat- mark]
signature n. 1 a a person's name, initials, or mark used in signing a
letter, document, etc. b the act of signing a document etc. 2
archaic a distinctive action, characteristic, etc. 3 Mus. a =
key signature. b = time signature. 4 Printing a a letter or
figure placed at the foot of one or more pages of each sheet of
a book as a guide for binding. b such a sheet after folding. 5
US directions given to a patient as part of a medical
prescription. Ьsignature tune esp. Brit. a distinctive tune
used to introduce a particular programme or performer on
television or radio. [med.L signatura (LL = marking of sheep),
as SIGNATORY]
signboard n. a board with a name or symbol etc. displayed outside a shop
or hotel etc.
signet n. 1 a seal used instead of or with a signature as
authentication. 2 (prec. by the) the royal seal formerly used
for special purposes in England and Scotland, and in Scotland
later as the seal of the Court of Session. Ьsignet-ring a ring
with a seal set in it. [ME f. OF signet or med.L signetum (as
SIGN)]
significance
n. 1 importance; noteworthiness (his opinion is of no
significance). 2 a concealed or real meaning (what is the
significance of his statement?). 3 the state of being
significant. 4 Statistics the extent to which a result deviates
from a hypothesis such that the difference is due to more than
errors in sampling. [OF significance or L significantia (as
SIGNIFY)]
significant
adj. 1 having a meaning; indicative. 2 having an unstated or
secret meaning; suggestive (refused it with a significant
gesture). 3 noteworthy; important; consequential (a significant
figure in history). 4 Statistics of or relating to the
significance in the difference between an observed and
calculated result. Ьsignificant figure Math. a digit conveying
information about a number containing it, and not a zero used
simply to fill vacant space at the beginning or end.
ЬЬsignificantly adv. [L significare: see SIGNIFY]
signification
n. 1 the act of signifying. 2 (usu. foll. by of) exact meaning
or sense, esp. of a word or phrase. [ME f. OF f. L significatio
-onis (as SIGNIFY)]
significative
adj. 1 (esp. of a symbol etc.) signifying. 2 having a meaning.
3 (usu. foll. by of) serving as a sign or evidence. [ME f. OF
significatif -ive, or LL significativus (as SIGNIFY)]
signify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 tr. be a sign or indication of (a yawn
signifies boredom). 2 tr. mean; have as its meaning ('Dr'
signifies 'doctor'). 3 tr. communicate; make known (signified
their agreement). 4 intr. be of importance; matter (it
signifies little). ЬЬsignifier n. [ME f. OF signifier f. L
significare (as SIGN)]
signing n. a person who has signed a contract, esp. to join a
professional sports team.
signor n. (pl. signori) 1 a title or form of address used of or to an
Italian-speaking man, corresponding to Mr or sir. 2 an Italian
man. [It. f. L senior: see SENIOR]
signora n. 1 a title or form of address used of or to an
Italian-speaking married woman, corresponding to Mrs or madam.
2 a married Italian woman. [It., fem. of SIGNOR]
signorina n. 1 a title or form of address used of or to an
Italian-speaking unmarried woman. 2 an Italian unmarried woman.
[It., dimin. of SIGNORA]
signory n. (pl. -ies) 1 = SEIGNIORY. 2 hist. the governing body of a
medieval Italian republic. [ME f. OF s(e)ignorie (as SEIGNEUR)]
signpost n. & v. --n. 1 a post erected at a crossroads with arms
indicating the direction to and sometimes also the distance from
various places. 2 a means of guidance; an indication. --v.tr.
1 provide with a signpost or signposts. 2 indicate (a course of
action, direction, etc.).
sika n. a small forest-dwelling deer, Cervus nippon, native to
Japan. [Jap. shika]
Sikh n. a member of an Indian monotheistic sect founded in the 16th
c. [Hindi, = disciple, f. Skr. sishya]
Sikhism n. the religious tenets of the Sikhs.
silage n. & v. --n. 1 storage in a silo. 2 green fodder that has
been stored in a silo. --v.tr. put into a silo. [alt. of
ENSILAGE after silo]
sild n. a small immature herring, esp. one caught in N. European
seas. [Da. & Norw.]
silence n. & v. --n. 1 absence of sound. 2 abstinence from speech or
noise. 3 the avoidance of mentioning a thing, betraying a
secret, etc. 4 oblivion; the state of not being mentioned.
--v.tr. make silent, esp. by coercion or superior argument. Ьin
silence without speech or other sound. reduce (or put) to
silence refute in argument. [ME f. OF f. L silentium (as
SILENT)]
silencer n. any of various devices for reducing the noise emitted by the
exhaust of a motor vehicle, a gun, etc.
silent adj. 1 not speaking; not uttering or making or accompanied by
any sound. 2 (of a letter) written but not pronounced, e.g. b
in doubt. 3 (of a film) without a synchronized soundtrack. 4
(of a person) taciturn; speaking little. 5 saying or recording
nothing on some subject (the records are silent on the
incident). 6 (of spirits) unflavoured. Ьsilent majority those
of moderate opinions who rarely assert them. silent partner US
= sleeping partner (see SLEEP). ЬЬsilently adv. [L silere
silent- be silent]
silenus n. (pl. sileni) (in Greek mythology) a bearded old man like a
satyr, sometimes with the tail and legs of a horse. [L f. Gk
seilenos]
silex n. a kind of glass made of fused quartz. [L (as SILICA)]
silhouette
n. & v. --n. 1 a representation of a person or thing showing
the outline only, usu. done in solid black on white or cut from
paper. 2 the dark shadow or outline of a person or thing
against a lighter background. --v.tr. represent or (usu. in
passive) show in silhouette. Ьin silhouette seen or placed in
outline. [ђtienne de Silhouette, Fr. author and politician d.
1767]
silica n. silicon dioxide, occurring as quartz etc. and as a principal
constituent of sandstone and other rocks. Ьsilica gel hydrated
silica in a hard granular form used as a desiccant. ЬЬsiliceous
adj. (also silicious). silicic adj. silicify v.tr. & intr.
(-ies, -ied). silicification n. [L silex -icis flint, after
alumina etc.]
silicate n. any of the many insoluble compounds of a metal combined with
silicon and oxygen, occurring widely in the rocks of the earth's
crust.
silicon n. Chem. a non-metallic element occurring widely in silica and
silicates, and used in the manufacture of glass. °Symb.: Si.
Ьsilicon chip a silicon microchip. silicon carbide =
CARBORUNDUM. Silicon Valley an area with a high concentration
of electronics industries. [L silex -icis flint (after carbon,
boron), alt. of earlier silicium]
silicone n. any of the many polymeric organic compounds of silicon and
oxygen with high resistance to cold, heat, water, and the
passage of electricity.
silicosis n. lung fibrosis caused by the inhalation of dust containing
silica. ЬЬsilicotic adj.
siliqua n. (also silique) (pl. siliquae or siliques) the long narrow
seed-pod of a cruciferous plant. ЬЬsiliquose adj. siliquous
adj. [L, = pod]
silk n. 1 a fine strong soft lustrous fibre produced by silkworms in
making cocoons. 2 a similar fibre spun by some spiders etc. 3
thread or cloth made from silk fibre. 4 (in pl.) kinds of silk
cloth or garments made from it, esp. as worn by a jockey in a
horse-owner's colours. 5 Brit. colloq. Queen's (or King's)
Counsel, as having the right to wear a silk gown. 6 (attrib.)
made of silk (silk blouse). 7 the silky styles of the female
maize-flower. Ьsilk cotton kapok or a similar substance.
silk-fowl a breed of fowl with a silky plumage. silk-gland a
gland secreting the substance produced as silk. silk hat a tall
cylindrical hat covered with silk plush. silk moth any of
various large moths of the family Saturniidae, esp. Hyalophora
cecropia. silk-screen printing = screen printing. take silk
Brit. become a Queen's (or King's) Counsel. ЬЬsilklike adj.
[OE sioloc, seolec (cf. ON silki) f. LL sericum neut. of L
sericus f. seres f. Gk Seres an oriental people]
silken adj. 1 made of silk. 2 wearing silk. 3 soft or lustrous as
silk. 4 (of a person's manner etc.) suave or insinuating. [OE
seolcen (as SILK)]
silkworm n. the caterpillar of the moth Bombyx mori, which spins its
cocoon of silk.
silky adj. (silkier, silkiest) 1 like silk in smoothness, softness,
fineness, or lustre. 2 (of a person's manner etc.) suave,
insinuating. ЬЬsilkily adv. silkiness n.
sill n. (also cill) 1 a shelf or slab of stone, wood, or metal at
the foot of a window or doorway. 2 a horizontal timber at the
bottom of a dock or lock entrance, against which the gates
close. 3 Geol. a tabular sheet of igneous rock intruded between
other rocks and parallel with their planar structure. [OE syll,
sylle]
sillabub var. of SYLLABUB.
sillimanite
n. an aluminium silicate occurring in orthorhombic crystals or
fibrous masses. [B. Silliman, Amer. chemist d. 1864]
silly adj. & n. --adj. (sillier, silliest) 1 lacking sense; foolish,
imprudent, unwise. 2 weak-minded. 3 Cricket (of a fielder or
position) very close to the batsman (silly mid-off). 4 archaic
innocent, simple, helpless. --n. (pl. -ies) colloq. a foolish
person. Ьsilly billy colloq. a foolish person. the silly
season high summer as the season when newspapers often publish
trivial material for lack of important news. ЬЬsillily adv.
silliness n. [later form of ME sely (dial. seely) happy, repr.
OE s‘lig (recorded in uns‘lig unhappy) f. Gmc]
silo n. & v. --n. (pl. -os) 1 a pit or airtight structure in which
green crops are pressed and kept for fodder, undergoing
fermentation. 2 a pit or tower for the storage of grain,
cement, etc. 3 an underground chamber in which a guided missile
is kept ready for firing. --v.tr. (-oes, -oed) make silage of.
[Sp. f. L sirus f. Gk siros corn-pit]
silt n. & v. --n. sediment deposited by water in a channel, harbour,
etc. --v.tr. & intr. (often foll. by up) choke or be choked
with silt. ЬЬsiltation n. silty adj. [ME, perh. rel. to Da.,
Norw. sylt, OLG sulta, OHG sulza salt marsh, formed as SALT]
siltstone n. rock of consolidated silt.
Silurian adj. & n. Geol. --adj. of or relating to the third period of
the Palaeozoic era with evidence of the first fish and land
plants, and the formation of mountains and new land areas. °Cf.
Appendix II. --n. this period or system. [L Silures, a people
of ancient SE Wales]
silva var. of SYLVA.
silvan var. of SYLVAN.
silver n., adj., & v. --n. Chem. 1 a greyish-white lustrous
malleable ductile precious metallic element, occurring naturally
as the element and in mineral form, and used chiefly with an
admixture of harder metals for coin, plate, and ornaments, as a
subordinate monetary medium, and in compounds for photography
etc. °Symb.: Ag. 2 the colour of silver. 3 silver or
cupro-nickel coins. 4 esp. Sc. money. 5 silver vessels or
implements, esp. cutlery. 6 household cutlery of any material.
7 = silver medal. --adj. 1 made wholly or chiefly of silver.
2 coloured like silver. --v. 1 tr. coat or plate with silver.
2 tr. provide (a mirror-glass) with a backing of tin amalgam
etc. 3 tr. (of the moon or a white light) give a silvery
appearance to. 4 a tr. turn (the hair) grey or white. b intr.
(of the hair) turn grey or white. Ьsilver age a period regarded
as inferior to a golden age, e.g. that of post-classical Latin
literature in the early Imperial period. silver band Brit. a
band playing silver-plated instruments. silver birch a common
birch, Betula alba, with silver-coloured bark. silver fir any
fir of the genus Abies, with the under-sides of its leaves
coloured silver. silver fox 1 an American red fox at a time
when its fur is black with white tips. 2 its fur. silver gilt
1 gilded silver. 2 an imitation gilding of yellow lacquer over
silver leaf. silver-grey a lustrous grey. silver jubilee 1 the
25th anniversary of a sovereign's accession. 2 any other 25th
anniversary. silver Latin literary Latin of the early Imperial
period. silver-leaf a fungal disease of fruit trees. silver
lining a consolation or hopeful feature in misfortune. silver
medal a medal of silver, usu. awarded as second prize. silver
nitrate a colourless solid that is soluble in water and formerly
used in photography. silver paper 1 a fine white tissue-paper
for wrapping silver. 2 aluminium or tin foil. silver plate
vessels, spoons, etc., of copper etc. plated with silver.
silver salmon a coho. silver sand a fine pure sand used in
gardening. silver screen (usu. prec. by the) motion pictures
collectively. silver solder solder containing silver. silver
spoon a sign of future prosperity. silver standard a system by
which the value of a currency is defined in terms of silver, for
which the currency may be exchanged. silver thaw a glassy
coating of ice formed on the ground or an exposed surface,
caused by freezing rain or a sudden light frost. silver tongue
eloquence. silver wedding the 25th anniversary of a wedding.
silver weed a plant with silvery leaves, esp. a potentilla,
Potentilla anserina, with silver-coloured leaves. [OE seolfor
f. Gmc]
silverfish
n. (pl. same or -fishes) 1 any small silvery wingless insect of
the order Thysanura, esp. Lepisma saccharina in houses and
other buildings. 2 a silver-coloured fish, esp. a colourless
variety of goldfish.
silverside
n. Brit. the upper side of a round of beef from the outside of
the leg.
silversmith
n. a worker in silver; a manufacturer of silver articles.
ЬЬsilversmithing n.
silverware
n. articles made of or coated with silver.
silvery adj. 1 like silver in colour or appearance. 2 having a clear
gentle ringing sound. 3 (of the hair) white and lustrous.
ЬЬsilveriness n.
silviculture
n. (also sylviculture) the growing and tending of trees as a
branch of forestry. ЬЬsilvicultural adj. silviculturist n. [F
f. L silva a wood + F culture CULTURE]
simian adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or concerning the anthropoid apes. 2
like an ape or monkey (a simian walk). --n. an ape or monkey.
[L simia ape, perh. f. L simus f. Gk simos flat-nosed]
similar adj. 1 like, alike. 2 (often foll. by to) having a
resemblance. 3 of the same kind, nature, or amount. 4 Geom.
shaped alike. ЬЬsimilarity n. (pl. -ies). similarly adv. [F
similaire or med.L similaris f. L similis like]
simile n. 1 a figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing
with another of a different kind, as an illustration or ornament
(e.g. as brave as a lion). 2 the use of such comparison. [ME
f. L, neut. of similis like]
similitude
n. 1 the likeness, guise, or outward appearance of a thing or
person. 2 a comparison or the expression of a comparison. 3
archaic a counterpart or facsimile. [ME f. OF similitude or L
similitudo (as SIMILE)]
simmer v. & n. --v. 1 intr. & tr. be or keep bubbling or boiling
gently. 2 intr. be in a state of suppressed anger or
excitement. --n. a simmering condition. Ьsimmer down become
calm or less agitated. [alt. of ME (now dial.) simper, perh.
imit.]
simnel cake
n. Brit. a rich fruit cake, usu. with a marzipan layer and
decoration, eaten esp. at Easter or during Lent. [ME f. OF
simenel, ult. f. L simila or Gk semidalis fine flour]
simon-pure
adj. real, genuine. [(the real) Simon Pure, a character in
Centlivre's Bold Stroke for a Wife (1717)]
simony n. the buying or selling of ecclesiastical privileges, e.g.
pardons or benefices. ЬЬsimoniac adj. & n. simoniacal adj.
[ME f. OF simonie f. LL simonia f. Simon Magus (Acts 8:18)]
simoom n. (also simoon) a hot dry dust-laden wind blowing at intervals
esp. in the Arabian desert. [Arab. samum f. samma to poison]
simper v. & n. --v. 1 intr. smile in a silly or affected way. 2 tr.
express by or with simpering. --n. such a smile. ЬЬsimperingly
adv. [16th c.: cf. Du. and Scand. semper, simper, G zimp(f)er
elegant, delicate]
simple adj. & n. --adj. 1 easily understood or done; presenting no
difficulty (a simple explanation; a simple task). 2 not
complicated or elaborate; without luxury or sophistication. 3
not compound; consisting of or involving only one element or
operation etc. 4 absolute, unqualified, straightforward (the
simple truth; a simple majority). 5 foolish or ignorant;
gullible, feeble-minded (am not so simple as to agree to that).
6 plain in appearance or manner; unsophisticated, ingenuous,
artless. 7 of low rank; humble, insignificant (simple people).
8 Bot. a consisting of one part. b (of fruit) formed from one
pistil. --n. archaic 1 a herb used medicinally. 2 a medicine
made from it. Ьsimple eye an eye of an insect, having only one
lens. simple fracture a fracture of the bone only, without a
skin wound. simple harmonic motion see HARMONIC. simple
interest interest payable on a capital sum only (cf. compound
interest (see COMPOUND)). simple interval Mus. an interval of
one octave or less. simple machine any of the basic mechanical
devices for applying a force (e.g. an inclined plane, wedge, or
lever). simple sentence a sentence with a single subject and
predicate. Simple Simon a foolish person (from the
nursery-rhyme character). simple time Mus. a time with two,
three, or four beats in a bar. ЬЬsimpleness n. [ME f. OF f. L
simplus]
simpleton n. a foolish, gullible, or halfwitted person. [SIMPLE after
surnames f. place-names in -ton]
simplex adj. & n. --adj. 1 simple; not compounded. 2 Computing (of a
circuit) allowing transmission of signals in one direction only.
--n. a simple or uncompounded thing, esp. a word. [L, = single,
var. of simplus simple]
simplicity
n. the fact or condition of being simple. Ьbe simplicity
itself be extremely easy. [OF simplicit‚ or L simplicitas (as
SIMPLEX)]
simplify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) make simple; make easy or easier to do or
understand. ЬЬsimplification n. [F simplifier f. med.L
simplificare (as SIMPLE)]
simplism n. 1 affected simplicity. 2 the unjustifiable simplification
of a problem etc.
simplistic
adj. 1 excessively or affectedly simple. 2 oversimplified so
as to conceal or distort difficulties. ЬЬsimplistically adv.
simply adv. 1 in a simple manner. 2 absolutely; without doubt (simply
astonishing). 3 merely (was simply trying to please).
simulacrum
n. (pl. simulacra) 1 an image of something. 2 a a shadowy
likeness; a deceptive substitute. b mere pretence. [L (as
SIMULATE)]
simulate v.tr. 1 a pretend to have or feel (an attribute or feeling). b
pretend to be. 2 imitate or counterfeit. 3 a imitate the
conditions of (a situation etc.), e.g. for training. b produce
a computer model of (a process). 4 (as simulated adj.) made to
resemble the real thing but not genuinely such (simulated fur).
5 (of a word) take or have an altered form suggested by (a word
wrongly taken to be its source, e.g. amuck). ЬЬsimulation n.
simulative adj. [L simulare f. similis like]
simulator n. 1 a person or thing that simulates. 2 a device designed to
simulate the operations of a complex system, used esp. in
training.
simulcast n. simultaneous transmission of the same programme on radio and
television. [SIMULTANEOUS + BROADCAST]
simultaneous
adj. (often foll. by with) occurring or operating at the same
time. Ьsimultaneous equations equations involving two or more
unknowns that are to have the same values in each equation.
ЬЬsimultaneity n. simultaneously adv. simultaneousness n.
[med.L simultaneus f. L simul at the same time, prob. after
instantaneus etc.]
simurg n. a monstrous bird of Persian myth, with the power of
reasoning and speech. [Pers. simurg f. Pahlavi sin eagle +
murg bird]
sin(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a the breaking of divine or moral law, esp. by
a conscious act. b such an act. 2 an offence against good
taste or propriety etc. --v. (sinned, sinning) 1 intr. commit
a sin. 2 intr. (foll. by against) offend. 3 tr. archaic
commit (a sin). Ьas sin colloq. extremely (ugly as sin). for
one's sins joc. as a judgement on one for something or other.
like sin colloq. vehemently or forcefully. live in sin colloq.
live together without being married. sin bin colloq. 1 Ice
Hockey a penalty box. 2 a place set aside for offenders of
various kinds. ЬЬsinless adj. sinlessly adv. sinlessness n.
[OE syn(n)]
sin(2) abbr. sine.
Sinaitic adj. of or relating to Mount Sinai or of the Sinai peninsula.
[var. of Sinaic f. Sinai f. Heb. sinay, with t added for
euphony]
sinanthropus
n. an apelike human of the extinct genus Sinanthropus. [mod.L,
as SINO- Chinese (remains having been found near Peking) + Gk
anthropos man]
since prep., conj., & adv. --prep. throughout, or at a point in, the
period between (a specified time, event, etc.) and the time
present or being considered (must have happened since yesterday;
has been going on since June; the greatest composer since
Beethoven). --conj. 1 during or in the time after (what have
you been doing since we met?; has not spoken since the dog
died). 2 for the reason that, because; inasmuch as (since you
are drunk I will drive you home). 3 (ellipt.) as being (a more
useful, since better designed, tool). --adv. 1 from that time
or event until now or the time being considered (have not seen
them since; had been healthy ever since; has since been cut
down). 2 ago (happened many years since). [ME, reduced form of
obs. sithence or f. dial. sin (f. sithen) f. OE siththon]
sincere adj. (sincerer, sincerest) 1 free from pretence or deceit; the
same in reality as in appearance. 2 genuine, honest, frank.
ЬЬsincereness n. sincerity n. [L sincerus clean, pure]
sincerely adv. in a sincere manner. Ьyours sincerely a formula for
ending an informal letter.
sinciput n. Anat. the front of the skull from the forehead to the
crown. ЬЬsincipital adj. [L f. semi- half + caput head]
sine n. Math. 1 the trigonometric function that is equal to the
ratio of the side opposite a given angle (in a right-angled
triangle) to the hypotenuse. 2 a function of the line drawn
from one end of an arc perpendicularly to the radius through the
other. Ьsine curve (or wave) a curve representing periodic
oscillations of constant amplitude as given by a sine function:
also called SINUSOID. [L sinus curve, fold of a toga, used in
med.L as transl. of Arab. jayb bosom, sine]
sinecure n. a position that requires little or no work but usu. yields
profit or honour. ЬЬsinecurism n. sinecurist n. [L sine cura
without care]
sine die adv. (of business adjourned indefinitely) with no appointed
date. [L, = without day]
sine qua non
n. an indispensable condition or qualification. [L, = without
which not]
sinew n. & v. --n. 1 tough fibrous tissue uniting muscle to bone; a
tendon. 2 (in pl.) muscles; bodily strength; wiriness. 3 (in
pl.) that which forms the strength or framework of a plan, city,
organization, etc. --v.tr. poet. serve as the sinews of;
sustain; hold together. Ьthe sinews of war money. ЬЬsinewless
adj. sinewy adj. [OE sin(e)we f. Gmc]
sinfonia n. Mus. 1 a symphony. 2 (in Baroque music) an orchestral
piece used as an introduction to an opera, cantata, or suite. 3
(Sinfonia; usu. in names) a small symphony orchestra. [It., =
SYMPHONY]
sinfonietta
n. Mus. 1 a short or simple symphony. 2 (Sinfonietta; usu. in
names) a small symphony orchestra. [It., dimin. of sinfonia:
see SINFONIA]
sinful adj. 1 (of a person) committing sin, esp. habitually. 2 (of an
act) involving or characterized by sin. ЬЬsinfully adv.
sinfulness n. [OE synfull (as SIN, -FUL)]
sing v. & n. --v. (past sang; past part. sung) 1 intr. utter
musical sounds with the voice, esp. words with a set tune. 2
tr. utter or produce by singing (sing another song). 3 intr.
(of the wind, a kettle, etc.) make inarticulate melodious or
humming, buzzing, or whistling sounds. 4 intr. (of the ears) be
affected as with a buzzing sound. 5 intr. sl. turn informer;
confess. 6 intr. archaic compose poetry. 7 tr. & (foll. by
of) intr. celebrate in verse. 8 tr. (foll. by in, out) usher
(esp. the new or old year) in or out with singing. 9 tr. bring
to a specified state by singing (sang the child to sleep). --n.
1 an act or spell of singing. 2 US a meeting for amateur
singing. Ьsing-along a tune etc. to which one can sing in
accompaniment. singing hinny see HINNY(2). singing saw =
musical saw. sing out call out loudly; shout. sing the praises
of see PRAISE. sing up sing more loudly. ЬЬsingable adj.
singer n. singingly adv. [OE singan f. Gmc]
sing. abbr. singular.
singe v. & n. --v. (singeing) 1 tr. & intr. burn superficially or
lightly. 2 tr. burn the bristles or down off (the carcass of a
pig or fowl) to prepare it for cooking. 3 tr. burn off the tips
of (the hair) in hairdressing. --n. a superficial burn. Ьsinge
one's wings suffer some harm esp. in a risky attempt. [OE
sencgan f. WG]
Singh n. 1 a title adopted by the warrior castes of N. India. 2 a
surname adopted by male Sikhs. [Hind. singh f. Skr. sinh
lion]
Singhalese
var. of SINHALESE.
single adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 one only, not double or multiple. 2
united or undivided. 3 a designed or suitable for one person
(single room). b used or done by one person etc. or one set or
pair. 4 one by itself; not one of several (a single tree). 5
regarded separately (every single thing). 6 not married. 7
Brit. (of a ticket) valid for an outward journey only, not for
the return. 8 (with neg. or interrog.) even one; not to speak
of more (did not see a single person). 9 (of a flower) having
only one circle of petals. 10 lonely, unaided. 11 archaic free
from duplicity, sincere, consistent, guileless, ingenuous. --n.
1 a single thing, or item in a series. 2 Brit. a single ticket.
3 a short pop record with one piece of music etc. on each side.
4 Cricket a hit for one run. 5 (usu. in pl.) a game with one
player on each side. 6 an unmarried person (young singles). 7
sl. US a one-dollar note. --v.tr. (foll. by out) choose as an
example or as distinguishable or to serve some purpose. Ьsingle
acrostic see ACROSTIC. single-acting (of an engine etc.) having
pressure applied only to one side of the piston.
single-breasted (of a coat etc.) having only one set of buttons
and buttonholes, not overlapping. single combat a duel. single
cream thin cream with a relatively low fat-content. single cut
(of a file) with grooves cut in one direction only, not
crossing. single-decker esp. Brit. a bus having only one
deck. single entry a system of bookkeeping in which each
transaction is entered in one account only. single file a line
of people or things arranged one behind another. single-handed
adv. 1 without help from another. 2 with one hand. --adj. 1
done etc. single-handed. 2 for one hand. single-handedly in a
single-handed way. single-lens reflex denoting a reflex camera
in which a single lens serves the film and the viewfinder.
single-line with movement of traffic in only one direction at a
time. single parent a person bringing up a child or children
without a partner. singles bar a bar for single people seeking
company. single-seater a vehicle with one seat. single stick 1
a basket-hilted stick of about a sword's length. 2 one-handed
fencing with this. single-tree US = SWINGLETREE. ЬЬsingleness
n. singly adv. [ME f. OF f. L singulus, rel. to simplus
SIMPLE]
single-minded
adj. having or intent on only one purpose. ЬЬsingle-mindedly
adv. single-mindedness n.
singlet n. 1 Brit. a garment worn under or instead of a shirt; a vest.
2 a single unresolvable line in a spectrum. [SINGLE + -ET(1),
after doublet, the garment being unlined]
singleton n. 1 one card only of a suit, esp. as dealt to a player. 2 a a
single person or thing. b an only child. 3 a single child or
animal born, not a twin etc. [SINGLE, after simpleton]
singsong adj., n., & v. --adj. uttered with a monotonous rhythm or
cadence. --n. 1 a singsong manner. 2 Brit. an informal
gathering for singing. --v.intr. & tr. (past and past part.
singsonged) speak or recite in a singsong manner.
singular adj. & n. --adj. 1 unique; much beyond the average;
extraordinary. 2 eccentric or strange. 3 Gram. (of a word or
form) denoting or referring to a single person or thing. 4
Math. possessing unique properties. 5 single, individual. --n.
Gram. 1 a singular word or form. 2 the singular number.
ЬЬsingularly adv. [ME f. OF singuler f. L singularis (as
SINGLE)]
singularity
n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state or condition of being singular. 2
an odd trait or peculiarity. 3 Physics & Math. a point at which
a function takes an infinite value, esp. in space-time when
matter is infinitely dense. [ME f. OF singularit‚ f. LL
singularitas (as SINGULAR)]
singularize
v.tr. (also -ise) 1 distinguish, individualize. 2 make
singular. ЬЬsingularization n.
sinh abbr. Math. hyperbolic sine. [sine + hyperbolic]
Sinhalese n. & adj. (also Singhalese) --n. (pl. same) 1 a member of a
people originally from N. India and now forming the majority of
the population of Sri Lanka. 2 an Indic language spoken by this
people. --adj. of or relating to this people or language.
[Skr. sinhalam Sri Lanka (Ceylon) + -ESE]
sinister adj. 1 suggestive of evil; looking malignant or villainous. 2
wicked or criminal (a sinister motive). 3 of evil omen. 4
Heraldry of or on the left-hand side of a shield etc. (i.e. to
the observer's right). 5 archaic left-hand. ЬЬsinisterly adv.
sinisterness n. [ME f. OF sinistre or L sinister left]
sinistral adj. & n. --adj. 1 left-handed. 2 of or on the left. 3 (of a
flat-fish) with the left side uppermost. 4 (of a spiral shell)
with whorls rising to the left and not (as usually) to the
right. ЬЬsinistrality n. sinistrally adv.
sinistrorse
adj. rising towards the left, esp. of the spiral stem of a
plant. [L sinistrorsus f. sinister left + vorsus past part. of
vertere turn]
sink v. & n. --v. (past sank or sunk; past part. sunk or sunken) 1
intr. fall or come slowly downwards. 2 intr. disappear below
the horizon (the sun is sinking). 3 intr. a go or penetrate
below the surface esp. of a liquid. b (of a ship) go to the
bottom of the sea etc. 4 intr. settle down comfortably (sank
into a chair). 5 intr. a gradually lose strength or value or
quality etc.; decline (my heart sank). b (of the voice) descend
in pitch or volume. c (of a sick person) approach death. 6 tr.
send (a ship) to the bottom of the sea etc. 7 tr. cause or
allow to sink or penetrate (sank its teeth into my leg). 8 tr.
cause the failure of (a plan etc.) or the discomfiture of (a
person). 9 tr. dig (a well) or bore (a shaft). 10 tr. engrave
(a die) or inlay (a design). 11 tr. a invest (money) (sunk a
large sum into the business). b lose (money) by investment. 12
tr. a cause (a ball) to enter a pocket in billiards, a hole at
golf, etc. b achieve this by (a stroke). 13 tr. overlook or
forget; keep in the background (sank their differences). 14
intr. (of a price etc.) become lower. 15 intr. (of a storm or
river) subside. 16 intr. (of ground) slope down, or reach a
lower level by subsidence. 17 intr. (foll. by on, upon) (of
darkness) descend (on a place). 18 tr. lower the level of. 19
tr. (usu. in passive; foll. by in) absorb; hold the attention of
(be sunk in thought). --n. 1 a fixed basin with a water-supply
and outflow pipe. 2 a place where foul liquid collects. 3 a
place of vice or corruption. 4 a pool or marsh in which a
river's water disappears by evaporation or percolation. 5
Physics a body or process used to absorb or dissipate heat. 6
(in full sink-hole) Geol. a cavity in limestone etc. into which
a stream etc. disappears. Ьsink in 1 penetrate or make its way
in. 2 become gradually comprehended (paused to let the words
sink in). sinking feeling a bodily sensation caused by hunger
or apprehension. sinking fund money set aside for the gradual
repayment of a debt. sink or swim even at the risk of complete
failure (determined to try, sink or swim). sunk fence a fence
formed by, or along the bottom of, a ditch. ЬЬsinkable adj.
sinkage n. [OE sincan f. Gmc]
sinker n. 1 a weight used to sink a fishing-line or sounding-line. 2
US a doughnut.
sinner n. a person who sins, esp. habitually.
sinnet n. (also sennit) Naut. braided cordage made in flat or round
or square form from 3 to 9 cords. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
Sinn Fein n. a political movement and party seeking a united republican
Ireland, now linked to the IRA. ЬЬSinn Feiner n. [Ir. sinn
f‚in we ourselves]
Sino- comb. form Chinese; Chinese and (Sino-American). [Gk Sinai the
Chinese]
sinologue n. an expert in sinology. [F, formed as SINO- + Gk -logos
speaking]
sinology n. the study of Chinese language, history, customs, etc.
ЬЬsinological adj. sinologist n.
sinter n. & v. --n. 1 a siliceous or calcareous rock formed by
deposition from springs. 2 a substance formed by sintering.
--v.intr. & tr. coalesce or cause to coalesce from powder into
solid by heating. [G, = E sinder CINDER]
sinuate adj. esp. Bot. wavy-edged; with distinct inward and outward
bends along the edge. [L sinuatus past part. of sinuare bend]
sinuosity n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state of being sinuous. 2 a bend, esp. in
a stream or road. [F sinuosit‚ or med.L sinuositas (as
SINUOUS)]
sinuous adj. with many curves; tortuous, undulating. ЬЬsinuously adv.
sinuousness n. [F sinueux or L sinuosus (as SINUS)]
sinus n. 1 a cavity of bone or tissue, esp. in the skull connecting
with the nostrils. 2 Med. a fistula esp. to a deep abscess. 3
Bot. the curve between the lobes of a leaf. [L, = bosom,
recess]
sinusitis n. inflammation of a nasal sinus.
sinusoid n. 1 a curve having the form of a sine wave. 2 a small
irregular-shaped blood-vessel, esp. found in the liver.
ЬЬsinusoidal adj. [F sinuso‹de f. L sinus: see SINUS]
Sion var. of ZION.
-sion suffix forming nouns (see -ION) from Latin participial stems in
-s- (mansion; mission; persuasion).
Sioux n. & adj. --n. (pl. same) 1 a member of a group of N. American
Indian peoples. 2 the language of this group. --adj. of or
relating to this people or language. ЬЬSiouan adj. & n. [F f.
a native name]
sip v. & n. --v.tr. & intr. (sipped, sipping) drink in one or more
small amounts or by spoonfuls. --n. 1 a small mouthful of
liquid (a sip of brandy). 2 the act of taking this. ЬЬsipper
n. [ME: perh. a modification of SUP(1)]
sipe n. a groove or channel in the tread of a tyre to improve its
grip. [dial. sipe to ooze f. OE sipian, MLG sipen, of unkn.
orig.]
siphon n. & v. (also syphon) --n. 1 a pipe or tube shaped like an
inverted V or U with unequal legs to convey a liquid from a
container to a lower level by atmospheric pressure. 2 (in full
siphon-bottle) an aerated-water bottle from which liquid is
forced out through a tube by the pressure of gas. 3 Zool. a a
canal or conduit esp. in cephalopods. b the sucking-tube of
some insects etc. --v.tr. & intr. (often foll. by off) 1
conduct or flow through a siphon. 2 divert or set aside (funds
etc.). ЬЬsiphonage n. siphonal adj. siphonic adj. [F siphon
or L sipho -onis f. Gk siphon pipe]
siphonophore
n. any usu. translucent marine hydrozoan of the order
Siphonophora, e.g. the Portuguese man-of-war. [Gk siphono- (as
SIPHON, -PHORE)]
sippet n. 1 a small piece of bread etc. soaked in liquid. 2 a piece
of toast or fried bread as a garnish. 3 a fragment. [app.
dimin. of SOP]
sir n. 1 a polite or respectful form of address or mode of
reference to a man. 2 (Sir) a titular prefix to the forename of
a knight or baronet. [ME, reduced form of SIRE]
sirdar n. Ind. etc. 1 a person of high political or military rank. 2
a Sikh. [Urdu sardar f. Pers. sar head + dar possessor]
sire n. & v. --n. 1 the male parent of an animal, esp. a stallion
kept for breeding. 2 archaic a respectful form of address, now
esp. to a king. 3 archaic poet. a father or male ancestor.
--v.tr. (esp. of a stallion) beget. [ME f. OF ult. f. L senior:
see SENIOR]
siren n. 1 a a device for making a loud prolonged signal or warning
sound, esp. by revolving a perforated disc over a jet of
compressed air or steam. b the sound made by this. 2 (in Greek
mythology) each of a number of women or winged creatures whose
singing lured unwary sailors on to rocks. 3 a sweet singer. 4
a a dangerously fascinating woman; a temptress. b a tempting
pursuit etc. 5 (attrib.) irresistibly tempting. 6 an
eel-shaped tailed amphibian of the family Sirenidae. Ьsiren
suit a one-piece garment for the whole body, easily put on or
taken off, orig. for use in air-raid shelters. [ME f. OF
sereine, sirene f. LL Sirena fem. f. L f. Gk Seiren]
sirenian adj. & n. --adj. of the order Sirenia of large aquatic
plant-eating mammals, e.g. the manatee and dugong. --n. any
mammal of this order. [mod.L Sirenia (as SIREN)]
sirgang n. an Asian magpie, Kitta chinensis, having mainly green
plumage with red wings. [a name in the E. Indies]
sirloin n. the upper and choicer part of a loin of beef. [OF (as
SUR-(1), LOIN)]
sirocco n. (also scirocco) (pl. -os) 1 a Saharan simoom reaching the
northern shores of the Mediterranean. 2 a warm sultry rainy
wind in S. Europe. [F f. It. scirocco, ult. f. Arab. S.aruk
east wind]
sirrah n. archaic = SIR (as a form of address). [prob. f. ME sire
SIR]
sirree int. US colloq. as an emphatic, esp. after yes or no. [SIR +
emphatic suffix]
sirup US var. of SYRUP.
SIS abbr. Secret Intelligence Service.
sis n. colloq. a sister. [abbr.]
sisal n. 1 a Mexican plant, Agave sisalana, with large fleshy leaves.
2 the fibre made from this plant, used for cordage, ropes, etc.
[Sisal, the port of Yucatan, Mexico]
siskin n. a dark-streaked yellowish-green songbird, Carduelis spinus,
allied to the goldfinch. [MDu. siseken dimin., rel. to MLG
sisek, MHG zise, zisec, of Slav. origin]
sissy n. & adj. (also cissy) colloq. --n. (pl. -ies) an effeminate
or cowardly person. --adj. (sissier, sissiest) effeminate;
cowardly. ЬЬsissified adj. sissiness n. sissyish adj. [SIS +
-Y(2)]
sister n. 1 a woman or girl in relation to sons and other daughters of
her parents. 2 a (often as a form of address) a close female
friend or associate. b a female fellow member of a trade union,
class, sect, or the human race. 3 a senior female nurse. 4 a
member of a female religious order. 5 (attrib.) of the same
type or design or origin etc. (sister ship; prose, the younger
sister of verse). Ьsister german see GERMAN. sister-in-law
(pl. sisters-in-law) 1 the sister of one's wife or husband. 2
the wife of one's brother. 3 the wife of one's brother-in-law.
Sister of Mercy a member of an educational or charitable order
of women, esp. that founded in Dublin in 1827. sister uterine
see UTERINE. ЬЬsisterless adj. sisterly adj. sisterliness n.
[ME sister (f. ON), suster etc. (repr. OE sweoster f. Gmc)]
sisterhood
n. 1 a the relationship between sisters. b sisterly
friendliness; companionship; mutual support. 2 a a society or
association of women, esp. when bound by monastic vows or
devoting themselves to religious or charitable work or the
feminist cause. b its members collectively.
Sistine adj. of any of the Popes called Sixtus, esp. Sixtus IV.
ЬSistine Chapel a chapel in the Vatican, with frescoes by
Michelangelo and other painters. [It. Sistino f. Sisto
Sixtus]
sistrum n. (pl. sistra) a jingling metal instrument used by the
ancient Egyptians esp. in the worship of Isis. [ME f. L f. Gk
seistron f. seio shake]
Sisyphean adj. (of toil) endless and fruitless like that of Sisyphus in
Greek mythology (whose task in Hades was to push uphill a stone
that at once rolled down again).
sit v. & n. --v. (sitting; past and past part. sat) 1 intr. adopt
or be in a position in which the body is supported more or less
upright by the buttocks resting on the ground or a raised seat
etc., with the thighs usu. horizontal. 2 tr. cause to sit;
place in a sitting position. 3 intr. a (of a bird) perch. b
(of an animal) rest with the hind legs bent and the body close
to the ground. 4 intr. (of a bird) remain on its nest to hatch
its eggs. 5 intr. a be engaged in an occupation in which the
sitting position is usual. b (of a committee, legislative body,
etc.) be engaged in business. c (of an individual) be entitled
to hold some office or position (sat as a magistrate). 6 intr.
(usu. foll. by for) pose in a sitting position (for a portrait).
7 intr. (foll. by for) be a Member of Parliament for (a
constituency). 8 tr. & (foll. by for) intr. Brit. be a
candidate for (an examination). 9 intr. be in a more or less
permanent position or condition (esp. of inactivity or being out
of use or out of place). 10 intr. (of clothes etc.) fit or hang
in a certain way. 11 tr. keep or have one's seat on (a horse
etc.). 12 intr. act as a babysitter. 13 intr. (often foll. by
before) (of an army) take a position outside a city etc. to
besiege it. --n. the way a dress etc. sits on a person. Ьbe
sitting pretty be comfortably or advantageously placed. make a
person sit up colloq. surprise or interest a person. sit at a
person's feet be a person's pupil. sit at home be inactive.
sit back relax one's efforts. sit by look on without
interfering. sit down 1 sit after standing. 2 cause to sit. 3
(foll. by under) submit tamely to (an insult etc.). sit-down
adj. (of a meal) eaten sitting at a table. sit-down strike a
strike in which workers refuse to leave their place of work.
sit heavy on the stomach take a long time to be digested. sit
in 1 occupy a place as a protest. 2 (foll. by for) take the
place of. 3 (foll. by on) be present as a guest or observer at
(a meeting etc.). sit-in n. a protest involving sitting in.
sit in judgement assume the right of judging others; be
censorious. sit loosely on not be very binding. sit on 1 be a
member of (a committee etc.). 2 hold a session or inquiry
concerning. 3 colloq. delay action about (the government has
been sitting on the report). 4 colloq. repress or rebuke or
snub (felt rather sat on). sit on the fence see FENCE. sit on
one's hands 1 take no action. 2 refuse to applaud. sit out 1
take no part in (a dance etc.). 2 stay till the end of (esp. an
ordeal). 3 sit outdoors. 4 outstay (other visitors). sit
tight colloq. 1 remain firmly in one's place. 2 not be shaken
off or move away or yield to distractions. sit up 1 rise from a
lying to a sitting position. 2 sit firmly upright. 3 go to bed
later than the usual time. 4 colloq. become interested or
aroused etc. sit-up n. a physical exercise in which a person
sits up without raising the legs from the ground. sit up and
take notice colloq. have one's interest aroused, esp. suddenly.
sit-upon colloq. the buttocks. sit well have a good seat in
riding. sit well on suit or fit. [OE sittan f. Gmc]
sitar n. a long-necked Indian lute with movable frets. ЬЬsitarist n.
[Hindi sitar]
sitcom n. colloq. a situation comedy. [abbr.]
site n. & v. 1 the ground chosen or used for a town or building. 2
a place where some activity is or has been conducted (camping
site; launching site). --v.tr. 1 locate or place. 2 provide
with a site. [ME f. AF site or L situs local position]
Sitka n. (in full Sitka spruce) a fast-growing spruce, Picea
sitchensis, native to N. America and yielding timber. [Sitka in
Alaska]
sitrep n. a report on the current military situation in an area.
[situation report]
sits vac abbr. situations vacant.
sitter n. 1 a person who sits, esp. for a portrait. 2 = BABYSITTER
(see BABYSIT). 3 colloq. a an easy catch or shot. b an easy
task. 4 a sitting hen.
sitting n. & adj. --n. 1 a continuous period of being seated, esp.
engaged in an activity (finished the book in one sitting). 2 a
time during which an assembly is engaged in business. 3 a
session in which a meal is served (dinner will be served in two
sittings). 4 Brit. Law = TERM 5c. 5 a clutch of eggs. --adj.
1 having sat down. 2 (of an animal or bird) not running or
flying. 3 (of a hen) engaged in hatching. Ьsitting duck (or
target) colloq. a vulnerable person or thing. sitting pretty
see PRETTY. sitting-room 1 a room in a house for relaxed
sitting in. 2 space enough to accommodate seated persons.
sitting tenant a tenant already in occupation of premises.
situate v. & adj. --v.tr. (usu. in passive) 1 put in a certain
position or circumstances (is situated at the top of a hill; how
are you situated at the moment?). 2 establish or indicate the
place of; put in a context. --adj. Law or archaic situated.
[med.L situare situat- f. L situs site]
situation n. 1 a place and its surroundings (the house stands in a fine
situation). 2 a set of circumstances; a position in which one
finds oneself; a state of affairs (came out of a difficult
situation with credit). 3 an employee's position or job. 4 a
critical point or complication in a drama. Ьsituation comedy a
comedy in which the humour derives from the situations the
characters are placed in. situations vacant (or wanted)
headings of lists of employment offered and sought.
ЬЬsituational adj. [ME f. F situation or med.L situatio (as
SITUATE)]
sitz-bath n. a hip-bath. [partial transl. of G Sitzbad f. sitzen sit +
Bad bath]
Siva n. (also Shiva) a Hindu deity associated with the powers of
reproduction and dissolution, regarded by some as the supreme
being and by others as a member of the triad. ЬЬSivaism n.
Sivaite n. & adj. [Skr. Siva, lit. the auspicious one]
six n. & adj. --n. 1 one more than five, or four less than ten;
the product of two units and three units. 2 a symbol for this
(6, vi, VI). 3 a size etc. denoted by six. 4 a set or team of
six individuals. 5 Cricket a hit scoring six runs by clearing
the boundary without bouncing. 6 the time of six o'clock (is it
six yet?). 7 a card etc. with six pips. --adj. that amount to
six. Ьat sixes and sevens in confusion or disagreement. knock
for six colloq. utterly surprise or overcome (a person). the
Six Counties the counties of N. Ireland. six-gun = six-shooter.
six of one and half a dozen of the other a situation of little
real difference between the alternatives. six-shooter a
revolver with six chambers. [OE siex etc. f. Gmc]
sixain n. a six-line stanza. [F f. six six]
sixer n. 1 the leader of a group of six Brownies or Cubs. 2 Cricket
a hit for six runs.
sixfold adj. & adv. 1 six times as much or as many. 2 consisting of
six parts.
sixpence n. Brit. 1 the sum of six pence, esp. before decimalization.
2 hist. a coin worth six old pence (2«p).
sixpenny adj. Brit. costing or worth six pence, esp. before
decimalization.
sixte n. Fencing the sixth of the eight parrying positions. [F f. L
sextus sixth]
sixteen n. & adj. --n. 1 one more than fifteen, or six more than ten.
2 a symbol for this (16, xvi, XVI). 3 a size etc. denoted by
sixteen. --adj. that amount to sixteen. Ьsixteenth note esp.
US Mus. = SEMIQUAVER. ЬЬsixteenth adj. & n. [OE siextiene (as
SIX, -TEEN)]
sixteenmo n. (pl. -os) sextodecimo. [English reading of the symbol
16mo]
sixth n. & adj. --n. 1 the position in a sequence corresponding to
that of the number 6 in the sequence 1-6. 2 something occupying
this position. 3 any of six equal parts of a thing. 4 Mus. a
an interval or chord spanning six consecutive notes in the
diatonic scale (e.g. C to A). b a note separated from another
by this interval. --adj. that is the sixth. Ьsixth form Brit.
a form in a secondary school for pupils over 16. sixth-form
college Brit. a college for pupils over 16. sixth-former a
pupil in the sixth form. sixth sense 1 a supposed faculty
giving intuitive or extrasensory knowledge. 2 such knowledge.
ЬЬsixthly adv. [SIX]
Sixtine adj. = SISTINE. [mod.L Sixtinus f. Sixtus]
sixty n. & adj. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 the product of six and ten. 2 a
symbol for this (60, lx, LX). 3 (in pl.) the numbers from 60 to
69, esp. the years of a century or of a person's life. 4 a set
of sixty persons or things. --adj. that amount to sixty.
Ьsixty-first, -second , etc. the ordinal numbers between
sixtieth and seventieth. sixty-fourmo (pl. -os) 1 a size of
book in which each leaf is one-sixty-fourth of a printing-sheet.
2 a book of this size (after DUODECIMO etc.). sixty-fourth note
esp. US Mus. = HEMIDEMISEMIQUAVER. sixty-four thousand (or
sixty-four) dollar question a difficult and crucial question
(from the top prize in a broadcast quiz show). sixty-one, -two
, etc. the cardinal numbers between sixty and seventy.
ЬЬsixtieth adj. & n. sixtyfold adj. & adv. [OE siextig (as
SIX, -TY(2))]
sizable var. of SIZEABLE.
sizar n. a student at Cambridge or at Trinity College, Dublin, paying
reduced fees and formerly having certain menial duties.
ЬЬsizarship n. [SIZE(1) = ration]
size(1) n. & v. --n. 1 the relative bigness or extent of a thing,
dimensions, magnitude (is of vast size; size matters less than
quality). 2 each of the classes, usu. numbered, into which
things otherwise similar, esp. garments, are divided according
to size (is made in several sizes; takes size 7 in gloves; is
three sizes too big). --v.tr. sort or group in sizes or
according to size. Ьof a size having the same size. of some
size fairly large. the size of as big as. the size of it
colloq. a true account of the matter (that is the size of it).
size-stick a shoemaker's measure for taking the length of a
foot. size up 1 estimate the size of. 2 colloq. form a
judgement of. what size? how big? ЬЬsized adj. (also in
comb.). sizer n. [ME f. OF sise f. assise ASSIZE, or f.
ASSIZE]
size(2) n. & v. --n. a gelatinous solution used in glazing paper,
stiffening textiles, preparing plastered walls for decoration,
etc. --v.tr. glaze or stiffen or treat with size. [ME, perh. =
SIZE(1)]
sizeable adj. (also sizable) large or fairly large. ЬЬsizeably adv.
sizzle v. & n. --v.intr. 1 make a sputtering or hissing sound as of
frying. 2 colloq. be in a state of great heat or excitement or
marked effectiveness. --n. 1 a sizzling sound. 2 colloq. a
state of great heat or excitement. ЬЬsizzler n. sizzling adj.
& adv. (sizzling hot). [imit.]
skald n. (also scald) (in ancient Scandinavia) a composer and reciter
of poems honouring heroes and their deeds. ЬЬskaldic adj. [ON
sk ld, of unkn. orig.]
skat n. a three-handed card-game with bidding. [G f. It. scarto a
discard f. scartare discard]
skate(1) n. & v. --n. 1 each of a pair of steel blades (or of boots
with blades attached) for gliding on ice. 2 (in full roller
skate) each of a pair of metal frames with small wheels, fitted
to shoes for riding on a hard surface. 3 a device on which a
heavy object moves. --v. 1 a intr. move on skates. b tr.
perform (a specified figure) on skates. 2 intr. (foll. by over)
refer fleetingly to, disregard. Ьget one's skates on Brit. sl.
make haste. skate on thin ice colloq. behave rashly, risk
danger, esp. by dealing with a subject needing tactful
treatment. skating-rink a piece of ice artificially made, or a
floor used, for skating. ЬЬskater n. [orig. scates (pl.) f.
Du. schaats (sing.) f. ONF escace, OF eschasse stilt]
skate(2) n. (pl. same or skates) any cartilaginous marine fish of the
family Rajidae, esp. Raja batis, a large flat rhomboidal fish
used as food. [ME f. ON skata]
skate(3) n. sl. a contemptible, mean, or dishonest person (esp. cheap
skate). [19th c.: orig. uncert.]
skateboard
n. & v. --n. a short narrow board on roller-skate wheels for
riding on while standing. --v.intr. ride on a skateboard.
ЬЬskateboarder n.
skean n. hist. a Gaelic dagger formerly used in Ireland and
Scotland. Ьskean-dhu n. a dagger worn in the stocking as part
of Highland costume. [Gael. sgian knife, dubh black]
sked n. & v. colloq. --n. = SCHEDULE. --v.tr. (skedded, skedding)
= SCHEDULE. [abbr.]
skedaddle v. & n. colloq. --v.intr. run away, depart quickly, flee.
--n. a hurried departure or flight. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
skeet n. a shooting sport in which a clay target is thrown from a
trap to simulate the flight of a bird. [ON skjўta SHOOT]
skeeter(1)
n. US & Austral. sl. a mosquito. [abbr.]
skeeter(2)
var. of SKITTER.
skeg n. 1 a fin underneath the rear of a surfboard. 2 the after
part of a vessel's keel or a projection from it. [ON skeg
beard, perh. via Du. scheg(ge)]
skein n. 1 a loosely-coiled bundle of yarn or thread. 2 a flock of
wild geese etc. in flight. 3 a tangle or confusion. [ME f. OF
escaigne, of unkn. orig.]
skeleton n. 1 a a hard internal or external framework of bones,
cartilage, shell, woody fibre, etc., supporting or containing
the body of an animal or plant. b the dried bones of a human
being or other animal fastened together in the same relative
positions as in life. 2 the supporting framework or structure
or essential part of a thing. 3 a very thin or emaciated person
or animal. 4 the remaining part of anything after its life or
usefulness is gone. 5 an outline sketch, an epitome or
abstract. 6 (attrib.) having only the essential or minimum
number of persons, parts, etc. (skeleton plan; skeleton staff).
Ьskeleton at the feast something that spoils one's pleasure; an
intrusive worry. skeleton in the cupboard (US closet) a
discreditable or embarrassing fact kept secret. skeleton key a
key designed to fit many locks by having the interior of the bit
hollowed. ЬЬskeletal adj. skeletally adv. skeletonize v.tr.
(also -ise). [mod.L f. Gk, neut. of skeletos dried-up f.
skello dry up]
skep n. 1 a a wooden or wicker basket of any of various forms. b
the quantity contained in this. 2 a straw or wicker beehive.
[ME f. ON skeppa]
skepsis US var. of SCEPSIS.
skeptic US var. of SCEPTIC.
skeptical US var. of SCEPTICAL.
skerrick n. (usu. with neg.) US & Austral. colloq. the smallest bit
(not a skerrick left). [N.Engl. dial.; orig. uncert.]
skerry n. (pl. -ies) Sc. a reef or rocky island. [Orkney dial. f.
ON sker: cf. SCAR(2)]
sketch n. & v. --n. 1 a rough, slight, merely outlined, or unfinished
drawing or painting, often made to assist in making a more
finished picture. 2 a brief account without many details
conveying a general idea of something, a rough draft or general
outline. 3 a very short play, usu. humorous and limited to one
scene. 4 a short descriptive piece of writing. 5 a musical
composition of a single movement. 6 colloq. a comical person or
thing. --v. 1 tr. make or give a sketch of. 2 intr. draw
sketches esp. of landscape (went out sketching). 3 tr. (often
foll. by in, out) indicate briefly or in outline. Ьsketch-book
(or -block) a pad of drawing-paper for doing sketches on.
sketch-map a roughly-drawn map with few details. ЬЬsketcher n.
[Du. schets or G Skizze f. It. schizzo f. schizzare make a
sketch ult. f. Gk skhedios extempore]
sketchy adj. (sketchier, sketchiest) 1 giving only a slight or rough
outline, like a sketch. 2 colloq. unsubstantial or imperfect
esp. through haste. ЬЬsketchily adv. sketchiness n.
skeuomorph
n. 1 an object or feature copying the design of a similar
artefact in another material. 2 an ornamental design resulting
from the nature of the material used or the method of working
it. ЬЬskeuomorphic adj. [Gk skeuos vessel, implement + morphe
form]
skew adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 oblique, slanting, set askew. 2 Math.
a lying in three dimensions (skew curve). b (of lines) not
coplanar. c (of a statistical distribution) not symmetrical.
--n. 1 a slant. 2 Statistics skewness. --v. 1 tr. make skew.
2 tr. distort. 3 intr. move obliquely. 4 intr. twist. Ьon the
skew askew. skew arch (or bridge) an arch (or bridge) with the
line of the arch not at right angles to the abutment. skew
chisel a chisel with an oblique edge. skew-eyed Brit.
squinting. skew gear a gear consisting of two cog-wheels having
non-parallel, non-intersecting axes. skew-whiff Brit. colloq.
askew. ЬЬskewness n. [ONF eskiu(w)er (v.) = OF eschuer: see
ESCHEW]
skewback n. the sloping face of the abutment on which an extremity of an
arch rests.
skewbald adj. & n. --adj. (of an animal) with irregular patches of white
and another colour (properly not black) (cf. PIEBALD). --n. a
skewbald animal, esp. a horse. [ME skued (orig. uncert.), after
PIEBALD]
skewer n. & v. --n. a long pin designed for holding meat compactly
together while cooking. --v.tr. fasten together or pierce with
or as with a skewer. [17th c., var. of dial. skiver: orig.
unkn.]
ski n. & v. --n. (pl. skis or ski) 1 each of a pair of long
narrow pieces of wood etc., usu. pointed and turned up at the
front, fastened under the feet for travelling over snow. 2 a
similar device under a vehicle or aircraft. 3 = WATER-SKI. 4
(attrib.) for wear when skiing (ski boots). --v. (skis, ski'd
or skied; skiing) 1 intr. travel on skis. 2 tr. ski at (a
place). Ьski-bob n. a machine like a bicycle with skis instead
of wheels. --v.intr. (-bobbed, -bobbing) ride a ski-bob.
ski-bobber a person who ski-bobs. ski-jump 1 a steep slope
levelling off before a sharp drop to allow a skier to leap
through the air. 2 a jump made from this. ski-jumper a person
who takes part in ski-jumping. ski-jumping the sport of leaping
off a ski-jump with marks awarded for style and distance
attained. ski-lift a device for carrying skiers up a slope,
usu. on seats hung from an overhead cable. ski-plane an
aeroplane having its undercarriage fitted with skis for landing
on snow or ice. ski-run a slope prepared for skiing. ЬЬskiable
adj. [Norw. f. ON skЎth billet, snow-shoe]
skiagraphy
var. of SCIAGRAPHY.
skiamachy var. of SCIAMACHY.
skid v. & n. --v. (skidded, skidding) 1 intr. (of a vehicle, a
wheel, or a driver) slide on slippery ground, esp. sideways or
obliquely. 2 tr. cause (a vehicle etc.) to skid. 3 intr. slip,
slide. 4 intr. colloq. fail or decline or err. 5 tr. support
or move or protect or check with a skid. --n. 1 the act or an
instance of skidding. 2 a piece of wood etc. serving as a
support, ship's fender, inclined plane, etc. 3 a braking
device, esp. a wooden or metal shoe preventing a wheel from
revolving or used as a drag. 4 a runner beneath an aircraft for
use when landing. Ьhit the skids colloq. enter a rapid decline
or deterioration. on the skids colloq. 1 about to be discarded
or defeated. 2 ready for launching. put the skids under
colloq. 1 hasten the downfall or failure of. 2 cause to
hasten. skid-lid sl. a crash-helmet. skid-pan Brit. 1 a
slippery surface prepared for vehicle-drivers to practise
control of skidding. 2 a braking device. skid road US 1 a road
for hauling logs along. 2 a part of a town frequented by
loggers or vagrants. skid row US a part of a town frequented by
vagrants, alcoholics, etc. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
skiddoo v.intr. (also skidoo) (-oos, -ooed) US sl. go away; depart.
[perh. f. SKEDADDLE]
skier(1) n. a person who skis.
skier(2) var. of SKYER.
skiff n. a light rowing-boat or sculling-boat. [F esquif f. It.
schifo, rel. to SHIP]
skiffle n. a kind of folk music played by a small group, mainly with a
rhythmic accompaniment to a singing guitarist etc. [perh.
imit.]
ski-joring
n. a winter sport in which a skier is towed by a horse or
vehicle. ЬЬski-jorer n. [Norw. skikjнring (as SKI, kjнre
drive)]
skilful adj. (US skillful) (often foll. by at, in) having or showing
skill; practised, expert, adroit, ingenious. ЬЬskilfully adv.
skilfulness n.
skill n. (often foll. by in) expertness, practised ability, facility
in an action; dexterity or tact. ЬЬskill-less adj. (archaic
skilless). [ME f. ON skil distinction]
skilled adj. 1 (often foll. by in) having or showing skill; skilful. 2
(of a worker) highly trained or experienced. 3 (of work)
requiring skill or special training.
skillet n. 1 Brit. a small metal cooking-pot with a long handle and
usu. legs. 2 US a frying-pan. [ME, perh. f. OF escuelete
dimin. of escuele platter f. LL scutella]
skillful US var. of SKILFUL.
skilly n. Brit. 1 a thin broth or soup or gruel (usu. of oatmeal and
water flavoured with meat). 2 an insipid beverage; tea or
coffee. [abbr. f. skilligalee, prob. fanciful]
skim v. & n. --v. (skimmed, skimming) 1 tr. a take scum or cream
or a floating layer from the surface of (a liquid). b take
(cream etc.) from the surface of a liquid. 2 tr. a keep
touching lightly or nearly touching (a surface) in passing over.
b deal with or treat (a subject) superficially. 3 intr. a
(often foll. by over, along) go lightly over a surface, glide
along in the air. b (foll. by over) = sense 2b of v. 4 a tr.
read superficially, look over cursorily, gather the salient
facts contained in. b intr. (usu. foll. by through) read or
look over cursorily. 5 tr. US sl. conceal or divert (income)
to avoid paying tax. --n. 1 the act or an instance of
skimming. 2 a thin covering on a liquid (skim of ice). Ьskim
the cream off take the best part of. skim (or skimmed) milk
milk from which the cream has been skimmed. [ME, back-form. f.
SKIMMER]
skimmer n. 1 a device for skimming liquids. 2 a person who skims. 3 a
flat hat, esp. a broad-brimmed straw hat. 4 any long-winged
marine bird of the genus Rynchops that feeds by skimming over
water with its knifelike lower mandible immersed. 5 a
hydroplane, hydrofoil, hovercraft, or other vessel that has
little or no displacement at speed. 6 US a sheath-like dress.
[ME f. OF escumoir f. escumer f. escume SCUM]
skimmia n. any evergreen shrub of the genus Skimmia, native to E. Asia,
with red berries. [mod.L f. Jap.]
skimp v., adj., & n. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by in) supply (a person
etc.) meagrely with food, money, etc. 2 tr. use a meagre or
insufficient amount of, stint (material, expenses, etc.). 3
intr. be parsimonious. --adj. scanty. --n. colloq. a small or
scanty thing, esp. a skimpy garment. [18th c.: orig. unkn.: cf.
SCRIMP]
skimpy adj. (skimpier, skimpiest) meagre; not ample or sufficient.
ЬЬskimpily adv. skimpiness n.
skin n. & v. --n. 1 the flexible continuous covering of a human or
other animal body. 2 a the skin of a flayed animal with or
without the hair etc. b a material prepared from skins esp. of
smaller animals (opp. HIDE(2)). 3 a person's skin with
reference to its colour or complexion (has a fair skin). 4 an
outer layer or covering, esp. the coating of a plant, fruit, or
sausage. 5 a film like skin on the surface of a liquid etc. 6
a container for liquid, made of an animal's whole skin. 7 a the
planking or plating of a ship or boat, inside or outside the
ribs. b the outer covering of any craft or vehicle, esp. an
aircraft or spacecraft. 8 Brit. sl. a skinhead. 9 US Cards a
game in which each player has one card which he bets will not be
the first to be matched by a card dealt from the pack. 10 =
gold-beater's skin. 11 a duplicating stencil. --v. (skinned,
skinning) 1 tr. remove the skin from. 2 (often foll. by over) a
tr. cover (a sore etc.) with or as with skin. b intr. (of a
wound etc.) become covered with new skin. 3 tr. sl. fleece or
swindle. Ьbe skin and bone be very thin. by (or with) the skin
of one's teeth by a very narrow margin. change one's skin
undergo an impossible change of character etc. get under a
person's skin colloq. interest or annoy a person intensely.
have a thick (or thin) skin be insensitive (or sensitive) to
criticism etc. no skin off one's nose colloq. a matter of
indifference or even benefit to one. skin-deep (of a wound, or
of an emotion, an impression, beauty, etc.) superficial, not
deep or lasting. skin-diver a person who swims underwater
without a diving-suit, usu. in deep water with an aqualung and
flippers. skin-diving such swimming. skin effect Electr. the
tendency of a high-frequency alternating current to flow through
the outer layer only of a conductor. skin-flick sl. an
explicitly pornographic film. skin-food a cosmetic intended to
improve the condition of the skin. skin friction friction at
the surface of a solid and a fluid in relative motion. skin
game US sl. a swindling game. skin-graft 1 the surgical
transplanting of skin. 2 a piece of skin transferred in this
way. skin test a test to determine whether an immune reaction
is elicited when a substance is applied to or injected into the
skin. skin-tight (of a garment) very close-fitting. to the
skin through all one's clothing (soaked to the skin). with a
whole skin unwounded. ЬЬskinless adj. skin-like adj. skinned
adj. (also in comb.). [OE scin(n) f. ON skinn]
skinflint n. a miserly person.
skinful n. (pl. -fuls) colloq. enough alcoholic liquor to make one
drunk.
skinhead n. 1 Brit. a youth with close-cropped hair, esp. one of an
aggressive gang. 2 US a recruit in the Marines.
skink n. any small lizard of the family Scincidae. [F scinc or L
scincus f. Gk skigkos]
skinner n. 1 a person who skins animals or prepares skins. 2 a dealer
in skins, a furrier. 3 Austral. Racing sl. a result very
profitable to bookmakers.
skinny adj. (skinnier, skinniest) 1 thin or emaciated. 2 (of
clothing) tight-fitting. 3 made of or like skin.
Ьskinny-dipping esp. US colloq. bathing in the nude.
ЬЬskinniness n.
skint adj. Brit. sl. having no money left. [= skinned, past part.
of SKIN]
skip(1) v. & n. --v. (skipped, skipping) 1 intr. a move along
lightly, esp. by taking two steps with each foot in turn. b
jump lightly from the ground, esp. so as to clear a
skipping-rope. c jump about, gambol, caper, frisk. 2 intr.
(often foll. by from, off, to) move quickly from one point,
subject, or occupation to another; be desultory. 3 tr. (also
absol.) omit in dealing with a series or in reading (skip every
tenth row; always skips the small print). 4 tr. colloq. not
participate in. 5 tr. colloq. depart quickly from; leave
hurriedly. 6 intr. (often foll. by out, off) colloq. make off,
disappear. 7 tr. make (a stone) ricochet on the surface of
water. --n. 1 a skipping movement or action. 2 Computing the
action of passing over part of a sequence of data or
instructions. 3 US colloq. a person who defaults or absconds.
Ьskip it sl. 1 abandon a topic etc. 2 make off, disappear.
skipping-rope (US skip-rope) a length of rope revolved over the
head and under the feet while jumping as a game or exercise.
skip zone the annular region round a broadcasting station where
neither direct nor reflected waves are received. [ME, prob. f.
Scand.]
skip(2) n. 1 a large container for builders' refuse etc. 2 a cage,
bucket, etc., in which men or materials are lowered and raised
in mines and quarries. 3 = SKEP. [var. of SKEP]
skip(3) n. & v. --n. the captain or director of a side at bowls or
curling. --v.tr. (skipped, skipping) be the skip of. [abbr.
of SKIPPER(1)]
skipjack n. 1 (in full skipjack tuna) a small striped Pacific tuna,
Katsuwonus pelamus, used as food. 2 a click beetle. 3 a kind
of sailing-boat used off the East coast of the US. [SKIP(1) +
JACK(1)]
skipper(1)
n. & v. --n. 1 a sea captain, esp. the master of a small
trading or fishing vessel. 2 the captain of an aircraft. 3 the
captain of a side in games. --v.tr. act as captain of. [ME f.
MDu., MLG schipper f. schip SHIP]
skipper(2)
n. 1 a person who skips. 2 any brown thick-bodied butterfly of
the family Hesperiidae.
skippet n. a small round wooden box to enclose and protect a seal
attached to a document. [ME: orig. unkn.]
skirl n. & v. --n. the shrill sound characteristic of bagpipes.
--v.intr. make a skirl. [prob. Scand.: ult. imit.]
skirmish n. & v. --n. 1 a piece of irregular or unpremeditated fighting
esp. between small or outlying parts of armies or fleets, a
slight engagement. 2 a short argument or contest of wit etc.
--v.intr. engage in a skirmish. ЬЬskirmisher n. [ME f. OF
eskirmir, escremir f. Frank.]
skirr v.intr. move rapidly esp. with a whirring sound. [perh. rel.
to SCOUR(1) or SCOUR(2)]
skirret n. a perennial umbelliferous plant, Sium sisarum, formerly
cultivated in Europe for its edible root. [ME skirwhit(e),
perh. formed as SHEER(1), WHITE]
skirt n. & v. --n. 1 a woman's outer garment hanging from the waist.
2 the part of a coat etc. that hangs below the waist. 3 a
hanging part round the base of a hovercraft. 4 (in sing. or
pl.) an edge, border, or extreme part. 5 (also bit of skirt)
sl. offens. a woman regarded as an object of sexual desire. 6
(in full skirt of beef etc.) a the diaphragm and other membranes
as food. b Brit. a cut of meat from the lower flank. 7 a flap
of a saddle. 8 a surface that conceals or protects the wheels
or underside of a vehicle or aircraft. --v. 1 tr. go along or
round or past the edge of. 2 tr. be situated along. 3 tr.
avoid dealing with (an issue etc.). 4 intr. (foll. by along) go
along the coast, a wall, etc. Ьskirt-dance a dance with
graceful manipulation of a full skirt. ЬЬskirted adj. (also in
comb.). skirtless adj. [ME f. ON skyrta shirt, corresp. to OE
scyrte: see SHIRT]
skirting n. (in full skirting-board) Brit. a narrow board etc. along the
bottom of the wall of a room.
skit(1) n. (often foll. by on) a light, usu. short, piece of satire or
burlesque. [rel. to skit move lightly and rapidly, perh. f. ON
(cf. skjўta SHOOT)]
skit(2) n. colloq. 1 a large number, a crowd. 2 (in pl.) heaps, lots.
[20th c.: cf. SCADS]
skite v. & n. --v.intr. Austral. & NZ colloq. boast, brag. --n. 1
Austral. & NZ colloq. a a boaster. b boasting; boastfulness.
2 Sc. a drinking-bout; a spree (on the skite). [Sc. & N.Engl.
dial., = a person regarded with contempt: cf. BLATHERSKITE]
skitter v.intr. (also skeeter) 1 a (usu. foll. by along, across) move
lightly or hastily. b (usu. foll. by about, off) hurry about,
dart off. 2 fish by drawing bait jerkily across the surface of
the water. [app. frequent. of dial. skite, perh. formed as
SKIT(1)]
skittery adj. skittish, restless.
skittish adj. 1 lively, playful. 2 (of a horse etc.) nervous, inclined
to shy, fidgety. ЬЬskittishly adv. skittishness n. [ME, perh.
formed as SKIT(1)]
skittle n. & v. --n. 1 a pin used in the game of skittles. 2 (in pl.;
usu. treated as sing.) a a game like ninepins played with usu.
nine wooden pins set up at the end of an alley to be bowled down
usu. with wooden balls or a wooden disc. b (in full table
skittles) a game played with similar pins set up on a board to
be knocked down by swinging a suspended ball. c colloq. chess
not played seriously. --v.tr. (often foll. by out) Cricket get
(batsmen) out in rapid succession. [17th c. (also kittle-pins):
orig. unkn.]
skive v. & n. --v. 1 tr. split or pare (hides, leather, etc.). 2
intr. Brit. sl. a evade a duty, shirk. b (often foll. by
off) avoid work by absenting oneself, play truant. --n. sl. 1
an instance of shirking. 2 an easy option. ЬЬskiver n. [ON
skЎfa, rel. to ME schive slice]
skivvy n. (pl. -ies) 1 Brit. colloq. derog. a female domestic
servant. 2 US a a thin high-necked long-sleeved garment. b (in
pl.) underwear of vest and underpants. [20th c.: orig. unkn.]
skol n. (also skoal) used as a toast in drinking. [Da. skaal, Sw.
sk†l, f. ON sk l bowl]
skua n. any large predatory sea bird of the family Stercorariidae
which pursues other birds and makes them disgorge the fish they
have caught. [mod.L f. Faroese skЈgvur, ON skЈfr]
skulk v. & n. --v.intr. 1 move stealthily, lurk, or keep oneself
concealed, esp. in a cowardly or sinister way. 2 stay or sneak
away in time of danger. 3 shirk duty. --n. 1 a person who
skulks. 2 a company of foxes. ЬЬskulker n. [ME f. Scand.: cf.
Norw. skulka lurk, Da. skulke, Sw. skolka shirk]
skull n. 1 the bony case of the brain of a vertebrate. 2 a the part
of the skeleton corresponding to the head. b this with the skin
and soft internal parts removed. c a representation of this. 3
the head as the seat of intelligence. Ьout of one's skull sl.
out of one's mind, crazy. skull and crossbones a representation
of a skull with two thigh-bones crossed below it as an emblem of
piracy or death. skull session US sl. a discussion or
conference. ЬЬskulled adj. (also in comb.). [ME scolle: orig.
unkn.]
skullcap n. 1 a small close-fitting peakless cap. 2 the top part of the
skull. 3 any plant of the genus Scutellaria, with helmet-shaped
bilabiate flowers.
skunk n. & v. --n. 1 a any of various cat-sized flesh-eating mammals
of the family Mustelidae, esp. Mephitis mephitis having a
distinctive black and white striped fur and able to emit a
powerful stench from a liquid secreted by its anal glands as a
defence. b its fur. 2 colloq. a thoroughly contemptible
person. --v.tr. 1 US sl. defeat. 2 fail to pay (a bill etc.).
Ьskunk-bear US a wolverine. skunk-cabbage US a herbaceous
plant, Lysichiton americanum, with an offensive-smelling spathe.
[Amer. Ind. segankw, segongw]
sky n. & v. --n. (pl. skies) (in sing. or pl.) 1 the region of
the atmosphere and outer space seen from the earth. 2 the
weather or climate evidenced by this. --v.tr. (skies, skied) 1
Cricket etc. hit (a ball) high into the air. 2 hang (a picture)
high on a wall. Ьsky-blue adj. & n. a bright clear blue.
sky-blue pink an imaginary colour. sky-clad sl. naked (esp. in
witchcraft). sky cloth Theatr. a backcloth painted or coloured
to represent the sky. sky-high adv. & adj. as if reaching the
sky, very high. the sky is the limit there is practically no
limit. sky pilot sl. a clergyman. sky-rocket n. a rocket
exploding high in the air. --v.intr. (-rocketed, -rocketing)
(esp. of prices etc.) rise very steeply or rapidly.
sky-shouting the sending of messages from an aircraft to the
ground by means of a loudspeaker. sky-sign an advertisement on
the roof of a building. sky wave a radio wave reflected from
the ionosphere. sky-writing legible smoke-trails made by an
aeroplane esp. for advertising. to the skies very highly;
without reserve (praised to the skies). under the open sky out
of doors. ЬЬskyey adj. skyless adj. [ME ski(es) cloud(s) f.
ON sk°]
skydiving n. the sport of performing acrobatic manoeuvres under free fall
with a parachute. ЬЬskydive v.intr. skydiver n.
skyer n. (also skier) Cricket a high hit.
Skye terrier
n. a small long-bodied short-legged long-haired slate or fawn
coloured variety of Scotch terrier. [Skye, an island of the
Inner Hebrides]
skyjack v. & n. sl. --v.tr. hijack (an aircraft). --n. an act of
skyjacking. ЬЬskyjacker n. [SKY + HIJACK]
skylark n. & v. --n. a lark, Alauda arvensis of Eurasia and N. Africa,
that sings while hovering in flight. --v.intr. play tricks or
practical jokes, indulge in horseplay, frolic. [SKY + LARK(1):
(v.) with pun on LARK(2)]
skylight n. a window set in the plane of a roof or ceiling.
skyline n. the outline of hills, buildings, etc., defined against the
sky; the visible horizon.
skysail n. a light sail above the royal in a square-rigged ship.
skyscape n. 1 a picture chiefly representing the sky. 2 a view of the
sky.
skyscraper
n. a very tall building of many storeys.
skyward adv. & adj. --adv. (also skywards) towards the sky. --adj.
moving skyward.
skywatch n. the activity of watching the sky for aircraft etc.
skyway n. 1 a route used by aircraft. 2 the sky as a medium of
transport.
slab n. & v. --n. 1 a flat broad fairly thick usu. square or
rectangular piece of solid material, esp. stone. 2 a large flat
piece of cake, chocolate, etc. 3 (of timber) an outer piece
sawn from a log. 4 Brit. a mortuary table. --v.tr. (slabbed,
slabbing) remove slabs from (a log or tree) to prepare it for
sawing into planks. [ME: orig. unkn.]
slack(1) adj., n., v., & adv. --adj. 1 (of rope etc.) not taut. 2
inactive or sluggish. 3 negligent or remiss. 4 (of tide etc.)
neither ebbing nor flowing. 5 (of trade or business or a
market) with little happening. 6 loose. 7 Phonet. lax. 8
relaxed, languid. --n. 1 the slack part of a rope (haul in the
slack). 2 a slack time in trade etc. 3 colloq. a spell of
inactivity or laziness. 4 (in pl.) full-length loosely-cut
trousers for informal wear. --v. 1 a tr. & intr. slacken. b
tr. loosen (rope etc.). 2 intr. colloq. take a rest, be lazy.
3 tr. slake (lime). --adv. 1 slackly. 2 slowly or
insufficiently (dry slack; bake slack). Ьslack hand lack of
full control in riding or governing. slack lime slaked lime.
slack off 1 loosen. 2 lose or cause to lose vigour. slack rein
= slack hand. slack suit US casual clothes of slacks and a
jacket or shirt. slack up reduce the speed of a train etc.
before stopping. slack water a time near the turn of the tide,
esp. at low tide. take up the slack use up a surplus or make up
a deficiency; avoid an undesirable lull. ЬЬslackly adv.
slackness n. [OE sl‘c f. Gmc]
slack(2) n. coal-dust or small pieces of coal. [ME prob. f. LG or Du.]
slacken v.tr. & intr. make or become slack. Ьslacken off = slack off
(see SLACK(1)).
slacker n. a shirker; an indolent person.
slag n. & v. --n. 1 vitreous refuse left after ore has been
smelted, dross separated in a fused state in the reduction of
ore, clinkers. 2 volcanic scoria. 3 sl. derog. a a
prostitute or promiscuous woman. b a worthless or insignificant
person. --v. (slagged, slagging) 1 intr. a form slag. b
cohere into a mass like slag. 2 tr. (often foll. by off) sl.
criticize, insult. Ьslag-heap a hill of refuse from a mine etc.
slag-wool = mineral wool. ЬЬslaggy adj. (slaggier, slaggiest).
[MLG slagge, perh. f. slagen strike, with ref. to fragments
formed by hammering]
slain past part. of SLAY(1).
slainte int. a Gaelic toast: good health! [Gael. sl inte, lit.
'health']
slake v.tr. 1 assuage or satisfy (thirst, revenge, etc.). 2
disintegrate (quicklime) by chemical combination with water.
[OE slacian f. sl‘c SLACK(1)]
slalom n. 1 a ski-race down a zigzag course defined by artificial
obstacles. 2 an obstacle race in canoes or cars or on
skateboards or water-skis. [Norw., lit. 'sloping track']
slam(1) v. & n. --v. (slammed, slamming) 1 tr. & intr. shut forcefully
and loudly. 2 tr. put down (an object) with a similar sound. 3
intr. move violently (he slammed out of the room). 4 tr. &
intr. put or come into sudden action (slam the brakes on). 5
tr. sl. criticize severely. 6 tr. sl. hit. 7 tr. sl. gain
an easy victory over. --n. 1 a sound of or as of a slammed
door. 2 the shutting of a door etc. with a loud bang. 3 (usu.
prec. by the) US sl. prison. [prob. f. Scand.: cf. ON
slam(b)ra]
slam(2) n. Cards the winning of every trick in a game. Ьgrand slam 1
Bridge the winning of 13 tricks. 2 the winning of all of a
group of championships or matches in a sport. small (or little)
slam Bridge the winning of 12 tricks. [orig. name of a
card-game: perh. f. obs. slampant trickery]
slambang adv. & adj. --adv. with the sound of a slam. --adj. colloq.
impressive, exciting, or energetic.
slammer n. (usu. prec. by the) sl. prison.
slander n. & v. --n. 1 a malicious, false, and injurious statement
spoken about a person. 2 the uttering of such statements;
calumny. 3 Law false oral defamation (cf. LIBEL). --v.tr.
utter slander about; defame falsely. ЬЬslanderer n. slanderous
adj. slanderously adv. [ME sclaundre f. AF esclaundre, OF
esclandre alt. f. escandle f. LL scandalum: see SCANDAL]
slang n. & v. --n. words, phrases, and uses that are regarded as very
informal and are often restricted to special contexts or are
peculiar to a specified profession, class, etc. (racing slang;
schoolboy slang). --v. 1 tr. use abusive language to. 2 intr.
use such language. Ьslanging-match a prolonged exchange of
insults. [18th-c. cant: orig. unkn.]
slangy adj. (slangier, slangiest) 1 of the character of slang. 2 fond
of using slang. ЬЬslangily adv. slanginess n.
slant v., n., & adj. --v. 1 intr. slope; diverge from a line; lie or
go obliquely to a vertical or horizontal line. 2 tr. cause to
do this. 3 tr. (often as slanted adj.) present (information)
from a particular angle esp. in a biased or unfair way. --n. 1
a slope; an oblique position. 2 a way of regarding a thing; a
point of view, esp. a biased one. --adj. sloping, oblique. Ьon
a (or the) slant aslant. slant-eyed having slanting eyes.
slant height the height of a cone from the vertex to the
periphery of the base. [aphetic form of ASLANT: (v.) rel. to ME
slent f. ON sletta dash, throw]
slantwise adv. aslant.
slap v., n., & adv. --v. (slapped, slapping) 1 tr. & intr. strike
with the palm of the hand or a flat object, or so as to make a
similar noise. 2 tr. lay forcefully (slapped the money on the
table; slapped a writ on the offender). 3 tr. put hastily or
carelessly (slap some paint on the walls). 4 tr. (often foll.
by down) colloq. reprimand or snub. --n. 1 a blow with the
palm of the hand or a flat object. 2 a slapping sound. --adv.
1 with the suddenness or effectiveness or true aim of a blow,
suddenly, fully, directly (ran slap into him; hit me slap in the
eye). 2 = slap-bang. Ьslap and tickle Brit. colloq.
light-hearted amorous amusement. slap-bang violently, noisily,
headlong. slap-happy colloq. 1 cheerfully casual or flippant.
2 punch-drunk. slap in the face a rebuff or affront. slap on
the back n. congratulations. --v.tr. congratulate. slap-up
esp. Brit. colloq. excellent, lavish; done regardless of
expense (slap-up meal). [LG slapp (imit.)]
slapdash adj. & adv. --adj. hasty and careless. --adv. in a slapdash
manner.
slapjack n. US a kind of pancake cooked on a griddle. [SLAP + JACK(1)]
slapstick n. 1 boisterous knockabout comedy. 2 a flexible divided lath
used by a clown. [SLAP + STICK(1)]
slash v. & n. --v. 1 intr. make a sweeping or random cut or cuts
with a knife, sword, whip, etc. 2 tr. make such a cut or cuts
at. 3 tr. make a long narrow gash or gashes in. 4 tr. reduce
(prices etc.) drastically. 5 tr. censure vigorously. 6 tr.
make (one's way) by slashing. 7 tr. a lash (a person etc.)
with a whip. b crack (a whip). --n. 1 a a slashing cut or
stroke. b a wound or slit made by this. 2 an oblique stroke; a
solidus. 3 Brit. sl. an act of urinating. 4 US debris
resulting from the felling or destruction of trees.
Ьslash-and-burn (of cultivation) in which vegetation is cut
down, allowed to dry, and then burned off before seeds are
planted. ЬЬslasher n. [ME perh. f. OF esclachier break in
pieces]
slashed adj. (of a sleeve etc.) having slits to show a lining or
puffing of other material.
slashing adj. vigorously incisive or effective.
slat n. a thin narrow piece of wood or plastic or metal, esp. used
in an overlapping series as in a fence or Venetian blind. [ME
s(c)lat f. OF esclat splinter etc. f. esclater split f. Rmc]
slate n., v., & adj. --n. 1 a fine-grained grey, green, or
bluish-purple metamorphic rock easily split into flat smooth
plates. 2 a piece of such a plate used as roofing-material. 3
a piece of such a plate used for writing on, usu. framed in
wood. 4 the colour of slate. 5 US a list of nominees for
office etc. --v.tr. 1 cover with slates esp. as roofing. 2
Brit. colloq. criticize severely; scold. 3 US make
arrangements for (an event etc.). 4 US propose or nominate for
office etc. --adj. made of slate. Ьon the slate Brit.
recorded as a debt to be paid. slate-blue (or -black) a shade
of blue (or black) occurring in slate. slate-colour a dark
bluish or greenish grey. slate-coloured of this colour.
slate-grey a shade of grey occurring in slate. slate-pencil a
small rod of soft slate used for writing on slate. wipe the
slate clean forgive or cancel the record of past offences.
ЬЬslating n. slaty adj. [ME s(c)late f. OF esclate, fem. form
of esclat SLAT]
slater n. 1 a person who slates roofs etc. 2 a woodlouse or similar
crustacean.
slather n. & v. --n. 1 (usu. in pl.) US colloq. a large amount. 2
(often open slather) Austral. & NZ sl. unrestricted scope for
action. --v.tr. US colloq. 1 spread thickly. 2 squander.
[19th c.: orig. unkn.]
slatted adj. having slats.
slattern n. a slovenly woman. ЬЬslatternly adj. slatternliness n.
[17th c.: rel. to slattering slovenly, f. dial. slatter to
spill, slop, waste, frequent. of slat strike]
slaughter n. & v. --n. 1 the killing of an animal or animals for food.
2 the killing of many persons or animals at once or
continuously; carnage, massacre. --v.tr. 1 kill (people) in a
ruthless manner or on a great scale. 2 kill for food, butcher.
3 colloq. defeat utterly. ЬЬslaughterer n. slaughterous adj.
[ME slahter ult. f. ON sl tr butcher's meat, rel. to SLAY(1)]
slaughterhouse
n. 1 a place for the slaughter of animals as food. 2 a place
of carnage.
Slav n. & adj. --n. a member of a group of peoples in Central and
Eastern Europe speaking Slavonic languages. --adj. 1 of or
relating to the Slavs. 2 Slavonic. ЬЬSlavism n. [ME Sclave f.
med.L Sclavus, late Gk Sklabos, & f. med.L Slavus]
slave n. & v. --n. 1 a person who is the legal property of another
or others and is bound to absolute obedience, a human chattel.
2 a drudge, a person working very hard. 3 (foll. by of, to) a
helpless victim of some dominating influence (slave of fashion;
slave to duty). 4 a machine, or part of one, directly
controlled by another. --v. 1 intr. (often foll. by at, over)
work very hard. 2 tr. (foll. by to) subject (a device) to
control by another. Ьslave-bangle a bangle of gold, glass,
etc., worn by a woman usu. above the elbow. slave-born born in
slavery, born of slave parents. slave-bracelet = slave-bangle.
slave-drive (past -drove; past part. -driven) work (a person)
hard, esp. excessively. slave-driver 1 an overseer of slaves at
work. 2 a person who works others hard. slave labour forced
labour. slave ship hist. a ship transporting slaves, esp. from
Africa. Slave State hist. any of the southern States of the US
in which slavery was legal before the Civil War. slave-trade
hist. the procuring, transporting, and selling of human beings,
esp. African Blacks, as slaves. slave-trader hist. a person
engaged in the slave-trade. [ME f. OF esclave = med.L sclavus,
sclava Slav (captive): see SLAV]
slaver(1) n. hist. a ship or person engaged in the slave-trade.
slaver(2) n. & v. --n. 1 saliva running from the mouth. 2 a fulsome or
servile flattery. b drivel, nonsense. --v.intr. 1 let saliva
run from the mouth, dribble. 2 (foll. by over) show excessive
sentimentality over, or desire for. [ME prob. f. LG or Du.: cf.
SLOBBER]
slavery n. 1 the condition of a slave. 2 exhausting labour; drudgery.
3 the custom of having slaves.
slavey n. (pl. -eys) colloq. a maidservant, esp. a hard-worked one.
Slavic adj. & n. = SLAVONIC.
slavish adj. 1 of, like, or as of slaves. 2 showing no attempt at
originality or development. 3 abject, servile, base.
ЬЬslavishly adv. slavishness n.
Slavonic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or relating to the group of
Indo-European languages including Russian, Polish, and Czech. 2
of or relating to the Slavs. --n. the Slavonic language-group.
ЬOld Church Slavonic the earliest written Slavonic language,
surviving as a liturgical language in the Orthodox Church.
[med.L S(c)lavonicus f. S(c)lavonia country of Slavs f.
Sclavus SLAV]
slaw n. coleslaw. [Du. sla, shortened f. salade SALAD]
slay(1) v.tr. (past slew; past part. slain) 1 literary or joc. kill.
2 sl. overwhelm with delight; convulse with laughter. ЬЬslayer
n. [OE slean f. Gmc]
slay(2) var. of SLEY.
SLBM abbr. submarine-launched ballistic missile.
SLD abbr. (in the UK) Social and Liberal Democrats. °In 1989
officially replaced by Liberal Democrats.
sleaze n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 sleaziness. 2 a person of low moral
standards. --v.intr. move in a sleazy fashion. [back-form. f.
SLEAZY]
sled n. & v. US --n. a sledge. --v.intr. (sledded, sledding) ride
on a sledge. [MLG sledde, rel. to SLIDE]
sledge(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a vehicle on runners for conveying loads or
passengers esp. over snow, drawn by horses, dogs, or reindeer
or pushed or pulled by one or more persons. 2 a toboggan.
--v.intr. & tr. travel or convey by sledge. [MDu. sleedse,
rel. to SLED]
sledge(2) n. = SLEDGEHAMMER.
sledgehammer
n. 1 a large heavy hammer used to break stone etc. 2 (attrib.)
heavy or powerful (a sledgehammer blow). [OE slecg, rel. to
SLAY(1)]
sleek adj. & v. --adj. 1 (of hair, fur, or skin, or an animal or
person with such hair etc.) smooth and glossy. 2 looking
well-fed and comfortable. 3 ingratiating. 4 (of a thing)
smooth and polished. --v.tr. make sleek, esp. by stroking or
pressing down. ЬЬsleekly adv. sleekness n. sleeky adj.
[later var. of SLICK]
sleep n. & v. --n. 1 a condition of body and mind such as that which
normally recurs for several hours every night, in which the
nervous system is inactive, the eyes closed, the postural
muscles relaxed, and consciousness practically suspended. 2 a
period of sleep (shall try to get a sleep). 3 a state like
sleep, such as rest, quiet, negligence, or death. 4 the
prolonged inert condition of hibernating animals. 5 a substance
found in the corners of the eyes after sleep. --v. (past and
past part. slept) 1 intr. a be in a state of sleep. b fall
asleep. 2 intr. (foll. by at, in, etc.) spend the night. 3 tr.
provide sleeping accommodation for (the house sleeps six). 4
intr. (foll. by with, together) have sexual intercourse, esp. in
bed. 5 intr. (foll. by on, over) not decide (a question) until
the next day. 6 intr. (foll. by through) fail to be woken by.
7 intr. be inactive or dormant. 8 intr. be dead; lie in the
grave. 9 tr. a (foll. by off) remedy by sleeping (slept off
his hangover). b (foll. by away) spend in sleeping (sleep the
hours away). 10 intr. (of a top) spin so steadily as to seem
motionless. Ьget to sleep manage to fall asleep. go to sleep 1
enter a state of sleep. 2 (of a limb) become numbed by
pressure. in one's sleep while asleep. last sleep death. let
sleeping dogs lie avoid stirring up trouble. put to sleep 1
anaesthetize. 2 kill (an animal) painlessly. sleep around
colloq. be sexually promiscuous. sleep in 1 remain asleep
later than usual in the morning. 2 sleep by night at one's
place of work. sleeping-bag a lined or padded bag to sleep in
esp. when camping etc. Sleeping Beauty a fairy-tale heroine who
slept for 100 years. sleeping-car (or -carriage) a railway
coach provided with beds or berths. sleeping-draught a drink to
induce sleep. sleeping partner a partner not sharing in the
actual work of a firm. sleeping-pill a pill to induce sleep.
sleeping policeman a ramp etc. in the road intended to cause
traffic to reduce speed. sleeping sickness any of several
tropical diseases with extreme lethargy caused by a trypanosome
transmitted by a tsetse-fly bite. sleeping-suit a child's
one-piece night-garment. sleep-learning learning by hearing
while asleep. sleep like a log (or top) sleep soundly. the
sleep of the just sound sleep. sleep out sleep by night out of
doors, or not at one's place of work. sleep-out n. Austral. &
NZ a veranda, porch, or outbuilding providing sleeping
accommodation. [OE slep, sl‘p (n.), slepan, sl‘pan (v.) f. Gmc]
sleeper n. 1 a person or animal that sleeps. 2 Brit. a wooden or
concrete beam laid horizontally as a support, esp. for railway
track. 3 a a sleeping-car. b a berth in this. 4 Brit. a ring
worn in a pierced ear to keep the hole from closing. 5 a thing
that is suddenly successful after being undistinguished. 6 a
sleeping-suit. 7 a spy or saboteur etc. who remains inactive
while establishing a secure position.
sleepless adj. 1 characterized by lack of sleep (a sleepless night). 2
unable to sleep. 3 continually active or moving. ЬЬsleeplessly
adv. sleeplessness n.
sleepwalk v.intr. walk or perform other actions while asleep.
ЬЬsleepwalker n.
sleepy adj. (sleepier, sleepiest) 1 drowsy; ready for sleep; about to
fall asleep. 2 lacking activity or bustle (a sleepy little
town). 3 habitually indolent, unobservant, etc. Ьsleepy
sickness encephalitis lethargica, an infection of the brain with
drowsiness and sometimes a coma. ЬЬsleepily adv. sleepiness n.
sleepyhead
n. (esp. as a form of address) a sleepy or inattentive person.
sleet n. & v. --n. 1 a mixture of snow and rain falling together. 2
hail or snow melting as it falls. 3 US a thin coating of ice.
--v.intr. (prec. by it as subject) sleet falls (it is sleeting;
if it sleets). ЬЬsleety adj. [ME prob. f. OE: rel. to MLG
sloten (pl.) hail, MHG sloz(e) f. Gmc]
sleeve n. 1 the part of a garment that wholly or partly covers an arm.
2 the cover of a gramophone record. 3 a tube enclosing a rod or
smaller tube. 4 a a wind-sock. b a drogue towed by an
aircraft. Ьroll up one's sleeves prepare to fight or work.
sleeve-board a small ironing-board for pressing sleeves.
sleeve-coupling a tube for connecting shafts or pipes.
sleeve-link a cuff-link. sleeve-note a descriptive note on a
record-sleeve. sleeve-nut a long nut with right-hand and
left-hand screw-threads for drawing together pipes or shafts
conversely threaded. sleeve-valve a valve in the form of a
cylinder with a sliding movement. up one's sleeve concealed but
ready for use, in reserve. ЬЬsleeved adj. (also in comb.).
sleeveless adj. [OE slefe, sliefe, slyf]
sleeving n. tubular covering for electric cable etc.
sleigh n. & v. --n. a sledge, esp. one for riding on. --v.intr.
travel on a sleigh. Ьsleigh-bell any of a number of tinkling
bells attached to the harness of a sleigh-horse etc. [orig. US,
f. Du. slee, rel. to SLED]
sleight n. archaic 1 a deceptive trick or device or movement. 2
dexterity. 3 cunning. Ьsleight of hand 1 dexterity esp. in
conjuring or fencing. 2 a display of dexterity, esp. a
conjuring trick. [ME sleghth f. ON sloegth f. sloegr SLY]
slender adj. (slenderer, slenderest) 1 a of small girth or breadth (a
slender pillar). b gracefully thin (a slender waist). 2
relatively small or scanty; slight, meagre, inadequate (slender
hopes; slender resources). Ьslender loris see LORIS.
ЬЬslenderly adv. slenderness n. [ME: orig. unkn.]
slenderize
v. (also -ise) 1 tr. a make (a thing) slender. b make (one's
figure) appear slender. 2 intr. make oneself slender; slim.
slept past and past part. of SLEEP.
sleuth n. & v. colloq. --n. a detective. --v. 1 intr. act as a
detective. 2 tr. investigate. Ьsleuth-hound 1 a bloodhound. 2
colloq. a detective, an investigator. [orig. in sleuth-hound:
ME f. sleuth f. ON slўth track, trail: cf. SLOT(2)]
slew(1) v. & n. (also slue) --v.tr. & intr. (often foll. by round) turn
or swing forcibly or with effort out of the forward or ordinary
position. --n. such a change of position. [18th-c. Naut.:
orig. unkn.]
slew(2) past of SLAY(1).
slew(3) n. esp. US colloq. a large number or quantity. [Ir. sluagh]
sley n. (also slay) a weaver's reed. [OE slege, rel. to SLAY(1)]
slice n. & v. --n. 1 a thin broad piece or wedge cut off or out esp.
from meat or bread or a cake, pie, or large fruit. 2 a share; a
part taken or allotted or gained (a slice of territory; a slice
of the profits). 3 an implement with a broad flat blade for
serving fish etc. or for scraping or chipping. 4 Golf & Lawn
Tennis a slicing stroke. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by up) cut
into slices. 2 tr. (foll. by off) cut (a piece) off. 3 intr.
(foll. by into, through) cut with or like a knife. 4 tr. (also
absol.) a Golf strike (the ball) so that it deviates away from
the striker. b (in other sports) propel (the ball) forward at
an angle. 5 tr. go through (air etc.) with a cutting motion.
Ьslice of life a realistic representation of everyday
experience. ЬЬsliceable adj. slicer n. (also in comb.). [ME
f. OF esclice, esclicier splinter f. Frank. slitjan, rel. to
SLIT]
slick adj., n., & v. --adj. colloq. 1 a (of a person or action)
skilful or efficient; dextrous (gave a slick performance). b
superficially or pretentiously smooth and dextrous. c glib. 2
a sleek, smooth. b slippery. --n. 1 a smooth patch of oil
etc., esp. on the sea. 2 Motor Racing a smooth tyre. 3 US a
glossy magazine. 4 US sl. a slick person. --v.tr. colloq. 1
make sleek or smart. 2 (usu. foll. by down) flatten (one's hair
etc.). ЬЬslickly adv. slickness n. [ME slike(n), prob. f. OE:
cf. SLEEK]
slicker n. US 1 colloq. a a plausible rogue. b a smart and
sophisticated city-dweller (cf. city slicker). 2 a raincoat of
smooth material.
slide v. & n. --v. (past and past part. slid) 1 a intr. move along
a smooth surface with continuous contact on the same part of the
thing moving (cf. ROLL). b tr. cause to do this (slide the
drawer into place). 2 intr. move quietly; glide; go smoothly
along. 3 intr. pass gradually or imperceptibly. 4 intr. glide
over ice on one or both feet without skates (under gravity or
with momentum got by running). 5 intr. (foll. by over) barely
touch upon (a delicate subject etc.). 6 intr. & tr. (often
foll. by into) move or cause to move quietly or unobtrusively
(slid his hand into mine). 7 intr. take its own course (let it
slide). --n. 1 a the act or an instance of sliding. b a rapid
decline. 2 an inclined plane down which children, goods, etc.,
slide; a chute. 3 a a track made by or for sliding, esp. on
ice. b a slope prepared with snow or ice for tobogganing. 4 a
part of a machine or instrument that slides, esp. a slide-valve.
5 a a thing slid into place, esp. a piece of glass holding an
object for a microscope. b a mounted transparency usu. placed
in a projector for viewing on a screen. 6 Brit. = hair-slide.
7 a part or parts of a machine on or between which a sliding
part works. Ьlet things slide be negligent; allow
deterioration. slide fastener US a zip-fastener. slide-rule a
ruler with a sliding central strip, graduated logarithmically
for making rapid calculations, esp. multiplication and division.
slide-valve a sliding piece that opens and closes an aperture by
sliding across it. sliding door a door drawn across an aperture
on a slide, not turning on hinges. sliding keel Naut. a
centreboard. sliding roof a part of a roof (esp. in a motor
car) made able to slide and so form an aperture. sliding scale
a scale of fees, taxes, wages, etc., that varies as a whole in
accordance with variation of some standard. sliding seat a seat
able to slide to and fro on runners etc., esp. in a racing-boat
to adjust the length of a stroke. ЬЬslidable adj. slidably
adv. slider n. [OE slidan]
slideway n. = SLIDE n. 7.
slight adj., v., & n. --adj. 1 a inconsiderable; of little
significance (has a slight cold; the damage is very slight). b
barely perceptible (a slight smell of gas). c not much or great
or thorough, inadequate, scanty (a conclusion based on very
slight observation; paid him slight attention). 2 slender,
frail-looking (saw a slight figure approaching; supported by a
slight framework). 3 (in superl., with neg. or interrog.) any
whatever (paid not the slightest attention). --v.tr. 1 treat
or speak of (a person etc.) as not worth attention, fail in
courtesy or respect towards, markedly neglect. 2 hist. make
militarily useless, raze (a fortification etc.). --n. a marked
piece of neglect, a failure to show due respect. Ьnot in the
slightest not at all. put a slight upon = sense 1 of v.
ЬЬslightingly adv. slightish adj. slightly adv. slightness n.
[ME slyght, sleght f. ON sl‚ttr level, smooth f. Gmc]
slily var. of SLYLY (see SLY).
slim adj., v., & n. --adj. (slimmer, slimmest) 1 a of small girth
or thickness, of long narrow shape. b gracefully thin,
slenderly built. c not fat or overweight. 2 small,
insufficient (a slim chance of success). 3 clever, artful,
crafty, unscrupulous. --v. (slimmed, slimming) 1 intr. make
oneself slimmer by dieting, exercise, etc. 2 tr. make slim or
slimmer. --n. a course of slimming. ЬЬslimly adv. slimmer n.
slimming n. & adj. slimmish adj. slimness n. [LG or Du. f.
Gmc]
slime n. & v. --n. thick slippery mud or a substance of similar
consistency, e.g. liquid bitumen or a mucus exuded by fish etc.
--v.tr. cover with slime. Ьslime mould a spore-bearing
micro-organism secreting slime. [OE slim f. Gmc, rel. to L
limus mud, Gk limne marsh]
slimline adj. of slender design.
slimy adj. (slimier, slimiest) 1 of the consistency of slime. 2
covered, smeared with, or full of slime. 3 disgustingly
dishonest, meek, or flattering. 4 slippery, hard to hold.
ЬЬslimily adv. sliminess n.
sling(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a strap, belt, etc., used to support or raise a
hanging weight, e.g. a rifle, a ship's boat, or goods being
transferred. 2 a bandage looped round the neck to support an
injured arm. 3 a strap or string used with the hand to give
impetus to a small missile, esp. a stone. 4 Austral. sl. a tip
or bribe. --v.tr. (past and past part. slung) 1 (also absol.)
hurl (a stone etc.) from a sling. 2 colloq. throw. 3 suspend
with a sling, allow to swing suspended, arrange so as to be
supported from above, hoist or transfer with a sling.
Ьsling-back 1 a shoe held in place by a strap above the heel. 2
(in full sling-back chair) a chair with a fabric seat suspended
from a rigid frame. sling-bag a bag with a long strap which may
be hung from the shoulder. sling one's hook see HOOK. sling
off at Austral. & NZ sl. disparage; mock; make fun of. slung
shot a metal ball attached by a thong etc. to the wrist and used
esp. by criminals as a weapon. [ME, prob. f. ON slyngva (v.)]
sling(2) n. a sweetened drink of spirits (esp. gin) and water. [18th
c.: orig. unkn.]
slinger n. a person who slings, esp. the user of a sling.
slingshot n. US a catapult.
slink(1) v.intr. (past and past part. slunk) (often foll. by off, away,
by) move in a stealthy or guilty or sneaking manner. [OE
slincan crawl]
slink(2) v. & n. --v.tr. (also absol.) (of an animal) produce (young)
prematurely. --n. 1 an animal, esp. a calf, so born. 2 its
flesh. [app. f. SLINK(1)]
slinky adj. (slinkier, slinkiest) 1 stealthy. 2 (of a garment)
close-fitting and flowing, sinuous. 3 gracefully slender.
ЬЬslinkily adv. slinkiness n.
slip(1) v. & n. --v. (slipped, slipping) 1 intr. slide unintentionally
esp. for a short distance; lose one's footing or balance or
place by unintended sliding. 2 intr. go or move with a sliding
motion (as the door closes the catch slips into place; slipped
into her nightdress). 3 intr. escape restraint or capture by
being slippery or hard to hold or by not being grasped (the eel
slipped through his fingers). 4 intr. make one's or its way
unobserved or quietly or quickly (just slip across to the
baker's; errors will slip in). 5 intr. a make a careless or
casual mistake. b fall below the normal standard, deteriorate,
lapse. 6 tr. insert or transfer stealthily or casually or with
a sliding motion (slipped a coin into his hand; slipped the
papers into his pocket). 7 tr. a release from restraint
(slipped the greyhounds from the leash). b detach (an anchor)
from a ship. c Brit. detach (a carriage) from a moving train.
d release (the clutch of a motor vehicle) for a moment. e (of
an animal) produce (young) prematurely. 8 tr. move (a stitch)
to the other needle without knitting it. 9 tr. (foll. by on,
off) pull (a garment) hastily on or off. 10 tr. escape from;
give the slip to (the dog slipped its collar; point slipped my
mind). --n. 1 the act or an instance of slipping. 2 an
accidental or slight error. 3 a loose covering or garment, esp.
a petticoat or pillowcase. 4 a a reduction in the movement of a
pulley etc. due to slipping of the belt. b a reduction in the
distance travelled by a ship or aircraft arising from the nature
of the medium in which its propeller revolves. 5 (in sing. or
pl.) a an artificial slope of stone etc. on which boats are
landed. b an inclined structure on which ships are built or
repaired. 6 Cricket a a fielder stationed for balls glancing
off the bat to the off side. b (in sing. or pl.) the position
of such a fielder (caught in the slips; caught at slip). 7 a
leash to slip dogs. Ьgive a person the slip escape from or
evade him or her. let slip 1 release accidentally or
deliberately, esp. from a leash. 2 miss (an opportunity). 3
utter inadvertently. let slip the dogs of war poet. open
hostilities. let slip through one's fingers 1 lose hold of. 2
miss the opportunity of having. slip away depart without
leave-taking etc. slip-carriage Brit. a railway carriage on an
express for detaching at a station where the rest of the train
does not stop. slip-case a close-fitting case for a book.
slip-coach Brit. = slip-carriage. slip-cover 1 a a calico etc.
cover for furniture out of use. b US = loose cover. 2 a jacket
or slip-case for a book. slip form a mould in which a structure
of uniform cross-section is cast by filling it with concrete and
continually moving and refilling it. slip-hook a hook with a
contrivance for releasing it readily when necessary. slip-knot
1 a knot that can be undone by a pull. 2 a running knot. slip
off depart without leave-taking etc. slip of the pen (or
tongue) a small mistake in which something is written (or said)
unintentionally. slip-on adj. (of shoes or clothes) that can
be easily slipped on and off. --n. a slip-on shoe or garment.
slip-over (of a garment) to be slipped on over the head.
slipped disc a disc between vertebrae that has become displaced
and causes lumbar pain. slip-ring a ring for sliding contact in
a dynamo or electric motor. slip-road Brit. a road for
entering or leaving a motorway etc. slip-rope Naut. a rope
with both ends on board so that casting loose either end frees
the ship from her moorings. slip sheet Printing a sheet of
paper placed between newly printed sheets to prevent set-off or
smudging. slip something over on colloq. outwit. slip-stitch
n. 1 a loose stitch joining layers of fabric and not visible
externally. 2 a stitch moved to the other needle without being
knitted. --v.tr. sew with slip-stitch. slip up colloq. make a
mistake. slip-up n. colloq. a mistake, a blunder. there's
many a slip 'twixt cup and lip nothing is certain till it has
happened. [ME prob. f. MLG slippen: cf. SLIPPERY]
slip(2) n. 1 a a small piece of paper esp. for writing on. b a long
narrow strip of thin wood, paper, etc. c a printer's proof on
such paper; a galley proof. 2 a cutting taken from a plant for
grafting or planting, a scion. Ьslip of a small and slim (a
slip of a girl). [ME, prob. f. MDu., MLG slippe cut, strip,
etc.]
slip(3) n. clay in a creamy mixture with water, used mainly for
decorating earthenware. Ьslip casting the manufacture of
ceramic ware by allowing slip to solidify in a mould. slip-ware
ware decorated with slip. [OE slipa, slyppe slime: cf.
COWSLIP]
slipover n. a pullover, usu. without sleeves.
slippage n. 1 the act or an instance of slipping. 2 a a decline, esp.
in popularity or value. b failure to meet a deadline or fulfil
a promise; delay.
slipper n. & v. --n. 1 a light loose comfortable indoor shoe. 2 a
light slip-on shoe for dancing etc. --v.tr. beat or strike with
a slipper. Ьslipper bath Brit. a bath shaped like a slipper,
with a covered end. ЬЬslippered adj.
slipperwort
n. calceolaria.
slippery adj. 1 difficult to hold firmly because of smoothness, wetness,
sliminess, or elusive motion. 2 (of a surface) difficult to
stand on, causing slips by its smoothness or muddiness. 3
unreliable, unscrupulous, shifty. 4 (of a subject) requiring
tactful handling. Ьslippery elm 1 the N. American red elm,
Ulmus fulva. 2 the medicinal inner bark of this. slippery
slope a course leading to disaster. ЬЬslipperily adv.
slipperiness n. [prob. coined by Coverdale (1535) after
Luther's schlipfferig, MHG slipferig f. slipfern, slipfen f.
Gmc: partly f. slipper slippery (now dial.) f. OE slipor f.
Gmc]
slippy adj. (slippier, slippiest) colloq. slippery. Ьlook (or be)
slippy Brit. look sharp; make haste. ЬЬslippiness n.
slipshod adj. 1 (of speech or writing, a speaker or writer, a method of
work, etc.) careless, unsystematic; loose in arrangement. 2
slovenly. 3 having shoes down at heel.
slipstream
n. & v. --n. 1 a current of air or water driven back by a
revolving propeller or a moving vehicle. 2 an assisting force
regarded as drawing something along with or behind something
else. --v.tr. 1 follow closely behind (another vehicle). 2
pass after travelling in another's slipstream.
slipway n. a slip for building ships or landing boats.
slit n. & v. --n. 1 a long straight narrow incision. 2 a long
narrow opening comparable to a cut. --v.tr. (slitting; past
and past part. slit) 1 make a slit in; cut or tear lengthwise.
2 cut into strips. Ьslit-eyed having long narrow eyes.
slit-pocket a pocket with a vertical opening giving access to
the pocket or to a garment beneath. slit trench a narrow trench
for a soldier or a weapon. ЬЬslitter n. [ME slitte, rel. to OE
slitan, f. Gmc]
slither v. & n. --v.intr. slide unsteadily; go with an irregular
slipping motion. --n. an instance of slithering. ЬЬslithery
adj. [ME var. of slidder (now dial.) f. OE slid(e)rian
frequent. f. slid-, weak grade of slidan SLIDE]
slitty adj. (slittier, slittiest) (of the eyes) long and narrow.
sliver n. & v. --n. 1 a long thin piece cut or split off. 2 a piece
of wood torn from a tree or from timber. 3 a splinter, esp.
from an exploded shell. 4 a strip of loose textile fibres after
carding. --v.tr. & intr. 1 break off as a sliver. 2 break up
into slivers. 3 form into slivers. [ME, rel. to slive cleave
(now dial.) f. OE]
slivovitz n. a plum brandy made esp. in Yugoslavia and Romania.
[Serbo-Croat sljivovica f. sljiva plum]
Sloane n. (in full Sloane Ranger) Brit. sl. a fashionable and
conventional upper-class young person, esp. living in London.
ЬЬSloaney adj. [Sloane Square, London + Lone Ranger, a cowboy
hero]
slob n. 1 colloq. a stupid, careless, coarse, or fat person. 2 Ir.
muddy land. ЬЬslobbish adj. [Ir. slab mud f. E slab ooze,
sludge, prob. f. Scand.]
slobber v. & n. --v.intr. 1 slaver. 2 (foll. by over) show excessive
sentiment. --n. saliva running from the mouth; slaver.
ЬЬslobbery adj. [ME, = Du. slobbern, of imit. orig.]
sloe n. 1 = BLACKTHORN. 2 its small bluish-black fruit with a sharp
sour taste. Ьsloe-eyed 1 having eyes of this colour. 2
slant-eyed. sloe-gin a liqueur of sloes steeped in gin. [OE
sla(h) f. Gmc]
slog v. & n. --v. (slogged, slogging) 1 intr. & tr. hit hard and
usu. wildly esp. in boxing or at cricket. 2 intr. (often foll.
by away, on) walk or work doggedly. --n. 1 a hard random hit.
2 a hard steady work. b a spell of this. ЬЬslogger n. [19th
c.: orig. unkn.: cf. SLUG(2)]
slogan n. 1 a short catchy phrase used in advertising etc. 2 a party
cry; a watchword or motto. 3 hist. a Scottish Highland war-cry.
[Gael. sluagh-ghairm f. sluagh army + gairm shout]
sloop n. 1 a small one-masted fore-and-aft-rigged vessel with
mainsail and jib. 2 (in full sloop of war) Brit. hist. a small
warship with guns on the upper deck only. Ьsloop-rigged rigged
like a sloop. [Du. sloep(e), of unkn. orig.]
sloosh n. & v. colloq. --n. a pouring or pouring sound of water.
--v.intr. 1 flow with a rush. 2 make a heavy splashing or
rushing noise. [imit.]
sloot n. (also sluit) S.Afr. a deep gully formed by heavy rain.
[Afrik. f. Du. sloot ditch]
slop(1) v. & n. --v. (slopped, slopping) 1 (often foll. by over) a
intr. spill or flow over the edge of a vessel. b tr. allow to
do this. 2 tr. make (the floor, clothes, etc.) wet or messy by
slopping, spill or splash liquid on. 3 intr. (usu. foll. by
over) gush; be effusive or maudlin. --n. 1 a quantity of
liquid spilled or splashed. 2 weakly sentimental language. 3
(in pl.) waste liquid, esp. dirty water or the waste contents of
kitchen, bedroom, or prison vessels. 4 (in sing. or pl.)
unappetizing weak liquid food. 5 Naut. a choppy sea. Ьslop
about move about in a slovenly manner. slop-basin Brit. a
basin for the dregs of cups at table. slop out carry slops out
(in prison etc.). slop-pail a pail for removing bedroom or
kitchen slops. [earlier sense 'slush', prob. rel. to slyppe:
cf. COWSLIP]
slop(2) n. 1 a workman's loose outer garment. 2 (in pl.) ready-made or
cheap clothing. 3 (in pl.) clothes and bedding supplied to
sailors in the navy. 4 (in pl.) archaic wide baggy trousers
esp. as worn by sailors. [ME: cf. OE oferslop surplice f. Gmc]
slope n. & v. --n. 1 an inclined position or direction; a state in
which one end or side is at a higher level than another; a
position in a line neither parallel nor perpendicular to level
ground or to a line serving as a standard. 2 a piece of rising
or falling ground. 3 a a difference in level between the two
ends or sides of a thing (a slope of 5 metres). b the rate at
which this increases with distance etc. 4 a place for skiing on
the side of a hill or mountain. 5 (prec. by the) the position
of a rifle when sloped. --v. 1 intr. have or take a slope;
slant esp. up or down; lie or tend obliquely, esp. to ground
level. 2 tr. place or arrange or make in or at a slope. Ьslope
arms place one's rifle in a sloping position against one's
shoulder. slope off sl. go away, esp. to evade work etc.
[shortening of ASLOPE]
sloppy adj. (sloppier, sloppiest) 1 a (of the ground) wet with rain;
full of puddles. b (of food etc.) watery and disagreeable. c
(of a floor, table, etc.) wet with slops, having water etc.
spilt on it. 2 unsystematic, careless, not thorough. 3 (of a
garment) ill-fitting or untidy. 4 (of sentiment or talk) weakly
emotional, maudlin. 5 colloq. (of the sea) choppy. ЬЬsloppily
adv. sloppiness n.
slosh v. & n. --v. 1 intr. (often foll. by about) splash or flounder
about, move with a splashing sound. 2 tr. Brit. sl. hit esp.
heavily. 3 tr. colloq. a pour (liquid) clumsily. b pour
liquid on. --n. 1 slush. 2 a an instance of splashing. b the
sound of this. 3 Brit. sl. a heavy blow. 4 a quantity of
liquid. [var. of SLUSH]
slot(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a slit or other aperture in a machine etc. for
something (esp. a coin) to be inserted. 2 a slit, groove,
channel, or long aperture into which something fits or in which
something works. 3 an allotted place in an arrangement or
scheme, esp. in a broadcasting schedule. --v. (slotted,
slotting) 1 tr. & intr. place or be placed into or as if into a
slot. 2 tr. provide with a slot or slots. Ьslot-machine a
machine worked by the insertion of a coin, esp.: 1 one for
automatic retail of small articles. 2 one allowing a spell of
play at a pin-table etc. 3 US = fruit machine. [ME, = hollow
of the breast, f. OF esclot, of unkn. orig.]
slot(2) n. 1 the track of a deer etc. esp. as shown by footprints. 2 a
deer's foot. [OF esclot hoof-print of a horse, prob. f. ON
slўth trail: cf. SLEUTH]
sloth n. 1 laziness or indolence; reluctance to make an effort. 2
any slow-moving nocturnal mammal of the family Bradypodidae or
Megalonychidae of S. America, having long limbs and hooked claws
for hanging upside down from branches of trees. Ьsloth bear a
large-lipped black shaggy bear, Melursus ursinus, of India. [ME
f. SLOW + -TH(2)]
slothful adj. lazy; characterized by sloth. ЬЬslothfully adv.
slothfulness n.
slouch v. & n. --v. 1 intr. stand or move or sit in a drooping
ungainly fashion. 2 tr. bend one side of the brim of (a hat)
downwards (opp. COCK(1)). 3 intr. droop, hang down loosely.
--n. 1 a slouching posture or movement, a stoop. 2 a downward
bend of a hat-brim (opp. COCK(1)). 3 sl. an incompetent or
slovenly worker or operator or performance. Ьslouch hat a hat
with a wide flexible brim. ЬЬslouchy adj. (slouchier,
slouchiest). [16th c.: orig. unkn.]
slough(1) n. a swamp; a miry place; a quagmire. ЬSlough of Despond a
state of hopeless depression (with ref. to Bunyan's Pilgrim's
Progress). ЬЬsloughy adj. [OE sloh, slo(g)]
slough(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a part that an animal casts or moults, esp. a
snake's cast skin. 2 dead tissue that drops off from living
flesh etc. 3 a habit etc. that has been abandoned. --v. 1 tr.
cast off as a slough. 2 intr. (often foll. by off) drop off as
a slough. 3 intr. cast off a slough. 4 intr. (often foll. by
away, down) (of soil, rock, etc.) collapse or slide into a hole
or depression. ЬЬsloughy adj. [ME, perh. rel. to LG slu(we)
husk]
Slovak n. & adj. --n. 1 a member of a Slavonic people inhabiting
Slovakia in Czechoslovakia. 2 the language of this people, one
of the two official languages of Czechoslovakia. --adj. of or
relating to this people or language. [Slovak etc. Slov k, rel.
to SLOVENE]
sloven n. a person who is habitually untidy or careless. [ME perh. f.
Flem. sloef dirty or Du. slof careless]
Slovene (also Slovenian) n. & adj. --n. 1 a member of a Slavonic
people in Slovenia in Yugoslavia. 2 the language of this
people. --adj. of or relating to Slovenia or its people or
language. [G Slowene f. Styrian etc. Slovenec f. OSlav.
Slov-, perh. rel. to slovo word]
slovenly adj. & adv. --adj. careless and untidy; unmethodical. --adv.
in a slovenly manner. ЬЬslovenliness n.
slow adj., adv., & v. --adj. 1 a taking a relatively long time to
do a thing or cover a distance (also foll. by of: slow of
speech). b not quick; acting or moving or done without speed.
2 gradual; obtained over a length of time (slow growth). 3 not
producing, allowing, or conducive to speed (in the slow lane).
4 (of a clock etc.) showing a time earlier than is the case. 5
(of a person) not understanding readily; not learning easily. 6
dull; uninteresting; tedious. 7 slack or sluggish (business is
slow). 8 (of a fire or oven) giving little heat. 9 Photog. a
(of a film) needing long exposure. b (of a lens) having a small
aperture. 10 a reluctant; tardy (not slow to defend himself).
b not hasty or easily moved (slow to take offence). 11 (of a
cricket-pitch, tennis-court, putting-green, etc.) on which the
ball bounces or runs slowly. --adv. 1 at a slow pace; slowly.
2 (in comb.) (slow-moving traffic). --v. (usu. foll. by down,
up) 1 intr. & tr. reduce one's speed or the speed of (a vehicle
etc.). 2 intr. reduce one's pace of life; live or work less
intensely. Ьslow and sure of the attitude that haste is risky.
slow but sure achieving the required result eventually.
slow-down the action of slowing down; a go-slow. slow handclap
slow clapping by an audience as a sign of displeasure or
boredom. slow loris see LORIS. slow march the marching time
adopted by troops in a funeral procession etc. slow-match a
slow-burning match for lighting explosives etc. slow motion 1
the operation or speed of a film using slower projection or more
rapid exposure so that actions etc. appear much slower than
usual. 2 the simulation of this in real action. slow neutron a
neutron with low kinetic energy esp. after moderation (cf. fast
neutron (see FAST(1))). slow poison a poison eventually causing
death by repeated doses. slow puncture a puncture causing only
slow deflation of the tyre. slow reactor Physics a nuclear
reactor using mainly slow neutrons (cf. fast reactor (see
FAST(1))). slow virus a progressive disease caused by a virus
or virus-like organism that multiplies slowly in the host
organism and has a long incubation period, such as scrapie or
BSE. ЬЬslowish adj. slowly adv. slowness n. [OE slaw f. Gmc]
slowcoach n. Brit. 1 a slow or lazy person. 2 a dull-witted person. 3
a person behind the times in opinions etc.
slowpoke n. US = SLOWCOACH.
slow-worm n. a small European legless lizard, Anguis fragilis, giving
birth to live young. Also called BLINDWORM. [OE sla-wyrm: first
element of uncert. orig., assim. to SLOW]
slub(1) n. & adj. --n. 1 a lump or thick place in yarn or thread. 2
fabric woven from thread etc. with slubs. --adj. (of material
etc.) with an irregular appearance caused by uneven thickness of
the warp. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
slub(2) n. & v. --n. wool slightly twisted in preparation for spinning.
--v.tr. (slubbed, slubbing) twist (wool) in this way. [18th
c.: orig. unkn.]
sludge n. 1 thick greasy mud. 2 muddy or slushy sediment. 3 sewage.
4 Mech. an accumulation of dirty oil, esp. in the sump of an
internal-combustion engine. 5 Geol. sea-ice newly formed in
small pieces. 6 (usu. attrib.) a muddy colour (sludge green).
ЬЬsludgy adj. [cf. SLUSH]
slue var. of SLEW(1).
slug(1) n. 1 a small shell-less mollusc of the class Gastropoda often
destructive to plants. 2 a a bullet esp. of irregular shape. b
a missile for an airgun. 3 Printing a a metal bar used in
spacing. b a line of type in Linotype printing. 4 esp. US a
tot of liquor. 5 a unit of mass, given an acceleration of 1
foot per second per second by a force of 1 lb. 6 a roundish
lump of metal. [ME slugg(e) sluggard, prob. f. Scand.]
slug(2) v. & n. US --v.tr. (slugged, slugging) strike with a hard
blow. --n. a hard blow. Ьslug it out 1 fight it out. 2
endure; stick it out. ЬЬslugger n. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
slugabed n. archaic a lazy person who lies late in bed. [slug (v.) (see
SLUGGARD) + ABED]
sluggard n. a lazy sluggish person. ЬЬsluggardly adv. sluggardliness
n. [ME f. slug (v.) be slothful (prob. f. Scand.: cf.
SLUG(1)) + -ARD]
sluggish adj. inert; inactive; slow-moving; torpid; indolent (a sluggish
circulation; a sluggish stream). ЬЬsluggishly adv.
sluggishness n. [ME f. SLUG(1) or slug (v.): see SLUGGARD]
sluice n. & v. --n. 1 (also sluice-gate, sluice-valve) a sliding gate
or other contrivance for controlling the volume or flow of
water. 2 (also sluice-way) an artificial water-channel esp. for
washing ore. 3 a place for rinsing. 4 the act or an instance
of rinsing. 5 the water above or below or issuing through a
floodgate. --v. 1 tr. provide or wash with a sluice or
sluices. 2 tr. rinse, pour or throw water freely upon. 3 tr.
(foll. by out, away) wash out or away with a flow of water. 4
tr. flood with water from a sluice. 5 intr. (of water) rush out
from a sluice, or as if from a sluice. [ME f. OF escluse ult.
f. L excludere EXCLUDE]
sluit var. of SLOOT.
slum n. & v. --n. 1 an overcrowded and squalid back street,
district, etc., usu. in a city and inhabited by very poor
people. 2 a house or building unfit for human habitation.
--v.intr. (slummed, slumming) 1 live in slumlike conditions. 2
go about the slums through curiosity, to examine the condition
of the inhabitants, or for charitable purposes. Ьslum clearance
the demolition of slums and rehousing of their inhabitants.
slum it colloq. put up with conditions less comfortable than
usual. ЬЬslummy adj. (slummier, slummiest). slumminess n.
[19th c.: orig. cant]
slumber v. & n. poet. rhet. --v.intr. 1 sleep, esp. in a specified
manner. 2 be idle, drowsy, or inactive. --n. a sleep, esp. of
a specified kind (fell into a fitful slumber). Ьslumber away
spend (time) in slumber. slumber-wear nightclothes.
ЬЬslumberer n. slumberous adj. slumbrous adj. [ME slumere
etc. f. slumen (v.) or slume (n.) f. OE sluma: -b- as in
number]
slump n. & v. --n. 1 a sudden severe or prolonged fall in prices or
values of commodities or securities. 2 a sharp or sudden
decline in trade or business usu. bringing widespread
unemployment. 3 a lessening of interest or commitment in a
subject or undertaking. --v.intr. 1 undergo a slump; fail;
fall in price. 2 sit or fall heavily or limply (slumped into a
chair). 3 lean or subside. [17th c., orig. 'sink in a bog':
imit.]
slung past and past part. of SLING(1).
slunk past and past part. of SLINK(1).
slur v. & n. --v. (slurred, slurring) 1 tr. & intr. pronounce or
write indistinctly so that the sounds or letters run into one
another. 2 tr. Mus. a perform (a group of two or more notes)
legato. b mark (notes) with a slur. 3 tr. archaic or US put a
slur on (a person or a person's character); make insinuations
against. 4 tr. (usu. foll. by over) pass over (a fact, fault,
etc.) lightly; conceal or minimize. --n. 1 an imputation of
wrongdoing; blame; stigma (a slur on my reputation). 2 the act
or an instance of slurring in pronunciation, singing, or
writing. 3 Mus. a curved line to show that two or more notes
are to be sung to one syllable or played or sung legato. [17th
c.: orig. unkn.]
slurp v. & n. --v.tr. eat or drink noisily. --n. the sound of this;
a slurping gulp. [Du. slurpen, slorpen]
slurry n. (pl. -ies) 1 a semi-liquid mixture of fine particles and
water; thin mud. 2 thin liquid cement. 3 a fluid form of
manure. 4 a residue of water and particles of coal left at
pit-head washing plants. [ME, rel. to dial. slur thin mud]
slush n. 1 watery mud or thawing snow. 2 silly sentiment. Ьslush
fund reserve funding esp. as used for political bribery. [17th
c., also sludge and slutch: orig. unkn.]
slushy adj. (slushier, slushiest) like slush; watery. ЬЬslushiness n.
slut n. derog. a slovenly woman; a slattern; a hussy. ЬЬsluttish
adj. sluttishness n. [ME: orig. unkn.]
sly adj. (slyer, slyest) 1 cunning; crafty; wily. 2 a (of a
person) practising secrecy or stealth. b (of an action etc.)
done etc. in secret. 3 hypocritical; ironical. 4 knowing;
arch; bantering; insinuating. 5 Austral. & NZ sl. (esp. of
liquor) illicit. Ьon the sly privately; covertly; without
publicity (smuggled some through on the sly). sly dog colloq.
a person who is discreet about mistakes or pleasures. ЬЬslyly
adv. (also slily). slyness n. [ME sleh etc. f. ON sloegr
cunning, orig. 'able to strike' f. slўg- past stem of sl
strike: cf. SLEIGHT]
slyboots n. colloq. a sly person.
slype n. a covered way or passage between a cathedral etc. transept
and the chapter house or deanery. [perh. = slipe a long narrow
piece of ground, = SLIP(2) 1]
smack(1) n., v., & adv. --n. 1 a sharp slap or blow esp. with the palm
of the hand or a flat object. 2 a hard hit at cricket etc. 3 a
loud kiss (gave her a hearty smack). 4 a loud sharp sound
(heard the smack as it hit the floor). --v. 1 tr. strike with
the open hand etc. 2 tr. part (one's lips) noisily in eager
anticipation or enjoyment of food or another delight. 3 tr.
crack (a whip). 4 tr. & intr. move, hit, etc., with a smack.
--adv. colloq. 1 with a smack. 2 suddenly; directly;
violently (landed smack on my desk). 3 exactly (hit it smack in
the centre). Ьhave a smack at colloq. make an attempt, attack,
etc., at. a smack in the eye (or face) colloq. a rebuff; a
setback. [MDu. smack(en) of imit. orig.]
smack(2) v. & n. (foll. by of) --v.intr. 1 have a flavour of; taste of
(smacked of garlic). 2 suggest the presence or effects of (it
smacks of nepotism). --n. 1 a flavour; a taste that suggests
the presence of something. 2 (in a person's character etc.) a
barely discernible quality (just a smack of superciliousness).
3 (in food etc.) a very small amount (add a smack of ginger).
[OE sm‘c]
smack(3) n. a single-masted sailing-boat for coasting or fishing. [Du.
smak f. earlier smacke; orig. unkn.]
smack(4) n. sl. a hard drug, esp. heroin, sold or used illegally.
[prob. alt. of Yiddish schmeck sniff]
smacker n. sl. 1 a loud kiss. 2 a resounding blow. 3 a Brit. њ1. b
US $1.
small adj., n., & adv. --adj. 1 not large or big. 2 slender; thin.
3 not great in importance, amount, number, strength, or power.
4 not much; trifling (a small token; paid small attention). 5
insignificant; unimportant (a small matter; from small
beginnings). 6 consisting of small particles (small gravel;
small shot). 7 doing something on a small scale (a small
farmer). 8 socially undistinguished; poor or humble. 9 petty;
mean; ungenerous; paltry (a small spiteful nature). 10 young;
not fully grown or developed (a small child). --n. 1 the
slenderest part of something (esp. small of the back). 2 (in
pl.) Brit. colloq. small items of laundry, esp. underwear.
--adv. into small pieces (chop it small). Ьfeel (or look) small
be humiliated; appear mean or humiliated. in a small way
unambitiously; on a small scale. no small considerable; a good
deal of (no small excitement about it). small arms portable
firearms, esp. rifles, pistols, light machine-guns,
sub-machine-guns, etc. small beer 1 a trifling matter;
something unimportant. 2 weak beer. small-bore (of a firearm)
with a narrow bore, in international and Olympic shooting usu.
.22 inch calibre (5.6 millimetre bore). small capital a capital
letter which is of the same dimensions as the lower-case letters
in the same typeface minus ascenders and descenders, as THIS.
small change 1 money in the form of coins as opposed to notes.
2 trivial remarks. small circle see CIRCLE. small claims court
Brit. a local tribunal in which claims for small amounts can be
heard and decided quickly and cheaply without legal
representation. small craft a general term for small boats and
fishing vessels. small fry 1 young children or the young of
various species. 2 small or insignificant things or people.
small hours the early hours of the morning after midnight.
small intestine see INTESTINE. small letter (in printed
material) a lower-case letter. small mercy a minor concession,
benefit, etc. (be grateful for small mercies). small potatoes
an insignificant person or thing. small print 1 printed matter
in small type. 2 inconspicuous and usu. unfavourable
limitations etc. in a contract. small profits and quick returns
the policy of a cheap shop etc. relying on large trade.
small-scale made or occurring in small amounts or to a lesser
degree. small slam see SLAM(2). small-sword a light tapering
thrusting-sword, esp. hist. for duelling. small talk light
social conversation. small-time colloq. unimportant or petty.
small-timer colloq. a small-time operator; an insignificant
person. small-town relating to or characteristic of a small
town; unsophisticated; provincial. small wonder not very
surprising. ЬЬsmallish adj. smallness n. [OE sm‘l f. Gmc]
smallgoods
n. Austral. delicatessen meats.
smallholder
n. Brit. a person who farms a smallholding.
smallholding
n. Brit. an agricultural holding smaller than a farm.
small-minded
adj. petty; of rigid opinions or narrow outlook.
ЬЬsmall-mindedly adv. small-mindedness n.
smallpox n. hist. an acute contagious viral disease, with fever and
pustules, usu. leaving permanent scars.
smalt n. 1 glass coloured blue with cobalt. 2 a pigment made by
pulverizing this. [F f. It. smalto f. Gmc, rel. to SMELT(1)]
smarm v.tr. colloq. 1 (often foll. by down) smooth, plaster down
(hair etc.) usu. with cream or oil. 2 flatter fulsomely.
[orig. dial. (also smalm), of uncert. orig.]
smart adj., v., n., & adv. --adj. 1 a clever; ingenious; quickwitted
(a smart talker; gave a smart answer). b keen in bargaining;
quick to take advantage. c (of transactions etc.) unscrupulous
to the point of dishonesty. 2 well-groomed; neat; bright and
fresh in appearance (a smart suit). 3 in good repair; showing
bright colours, new paint, etc. (a smart red bicycle). 4
stylish; fashionable; prominent in society (in all the smart
restaurants; the smart set). 5 quick; brisk (set a smart pace).
6 painfully severe; sharp; vigorous (a smart blow). --v.intr.
1 (of a person or a part of the body) feel or give acute pain or
distress (my eye smarts; smarting from the insult). 2 (of an
insult, grievance, etc.) rankle. 3 (foll. by for) suffer the
consequences of (you will smart for this). --n. a bodily or
mental sharp pain; a stinging sensation. --adv. smartly; in a
smart manner. Ьlook smart make haste. smart-arse (or -ass) =
SMART ALEC. smart-money 1 money paid or exacted as a penalty or
compensation. 2 money invested by persons with expert
knowledge. ЬЬsmartingly adv. smartish adj. & adv. smartly
adv. smartness n. [OE smeart, smeortan]
smart alec
n. (also aleck, alick) colloq. a person displaying
ostentatious or smug cleverness. ЬЬsmart-alecky adj. [SMART +
Alec, dimin. of the name Alexander]
smarten v.tr. & intr. (usu. foll. by up) make or become smart or
smarter.
smarty n. (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 a know-all; a smart alec. 2 a
smartly-dressed person; a member of a smart set. Ьsmarty-boots
(or -pants) = SMARTY 1. [SMART]
smash v., n., & adv. --v. 1 tr. & intr. (often foll. by up) a break
into pieces; shatter. b bring or come to sudden or complete
destruction, defeat, or disaster. 2 tr. (foll. by into,
through) (of a vehicle etc.) move with great force and impact.
3 tr. & intr. (foll. by in) break in with a crushing blow
(smashed in the window). 4 tr. (in tennis, squash, etc.) hit (a
ball etc.) with great force, esp. downwards (smashed it back
over the net). 5 intr. (of a business etc.) go bankrupt, come
to grief. 6 tr. (as smashed adj.) sl. intoxicated. --n. 1 the
act or an instance of smashing; a violent fall, collision, or
disaster. 2 the sound of this. 3 (in full smash hit) a very
successful play, song, performer, etc. 4 a stroke in tennis,
squash, etc., in which the ball is hit esp. downwards with great
force. 5 a violent blow with a fist etc. 6 bankruptcy; a
series of commercial failures. 7 a mixture of spirits (usu.
brandy) with flavoured water and ice. --adv. with a smash (fell
smash on the floor). Ьgo to smash be ruined etc.
smash-and-grab (of a robbery etc.) in which the thief smashes a
shop-window and seizes goods. smash-up a violent collision; a
complete smash. [18th c., prob. imit. after smack, smite and
bash, mash, etc.]
smasher n. 1 colloq. a very beautiful or pleasing person or thing. 2 a
person or thing that smashes.
smatter n. (also smattering) a slight superficial knowledge of a
language or subject. ЬЬsmatterer n. [ME smatter talk
ignorantly, prate: orig. unkn.]
smear v. & n. --v.tr. 1 daub or mark with a greasy or sticky
substance or with something that stains. 2 blot; smudge;
obscure the outline of (writing, artwork, etc.). 3 defame the
character of; slander; attempt to or succeed in discrediting (a
person or his name) publicly. --n. 1 the act or an instance of
smearing. 2 Med. a material smeared on a microscopic slide
etc. for examination. b a specimen of this. Ьsmear test =
cervical smear. ЬЬsmearer n. smeary adj. [OE smierwan f. Gmc]
smegma n. a sebaceous secretion in the folds of the skin, esp. of the
foreskin. ЬЬsmegmatic adj. [L f. Gk smegma -atos detergent f.
smekho cleanse]
smell n. & v. --n. 1 the faculty of perceiving odours or scents (has
a fine sense of smell). 2 the quality in substances that is
perceived by this (the smell of thyme; this rose has no smell).
3 an unpleasant odour. 4 the act of inhaling to ascertain
smell. --v. (past and past part. smelt or smelled) 1 tr.
perceive the smell of; examine by smell (thought I could smell
gas). 2 intr. emit odour. 3 intr. seem by smell to be (this
milk smells sour). 4 intr. (foll. by of) a be redolent of
(smells of fish). b be suggestive of (smells of dishonesty). 5
intr. stink; be rank. 6 tr. perceive as if by smell; detect,
discern, suspect (smell a bargain; smell blood). 7 intr. have
or use a sense of smell. 8 intr. (foll. by about) sniff or
search about. 9 intr. (foll. by at) inhale the smell of.
Ьsmelling-bottle a small bottle of smelling-salts.
smelling-salts ammonium carbonate mixed with scent to be sniffed
as a restorative in faintness etc. smell out 1 detect by smell;
find out by investigation. 2 (of a dog etc.) hunt out by smell.
smell a rat begin to suspect trickery etc. ЬЬsmellable adj.
smeller n. smell-less adj. [ME smel(le), prob. f. OE]
smelly adj. (smellier, smelliest) having a strong or unpleasant smell.
ЬЬsmelliness n.
smelt(1) v.tr. 1 extract metal from (ore) by melting. 2 extract (metal)
from ore by melting. ЬЬsmelter n. smeltery n. (pl. -ies).
[MDu., MLG smelten, rel. to MELT]
smelt(2) past and past part. of SMELL.
smelt(3) n. (pl. same or smelts) any small green and silver fish of the
genus Osmerus etc. allied to salmon and used as food. [OE, of
uncert. orig.: cf. SMOLT]
smew n. a small merganser, Mergus albellus. [17th c., rel. to
smeath, smee = smew, widgeon, etc.]
smidgen n. (also smidgin) colloq. a small bit or amount. [perh. f.
smitch in the same sense: cf. dial. smitch wood-smoke]
smilax n. 1 any climbing shrub of the genus Smilax, the roots of some
species of which yield sarsaparilla. 2 a climbing kind of
asparagus, Asparagus medeoloides, used decoratively by florists.
[L f. Gk, = bindweed]
smile v. & n. --v. 1 intr. relax the features into a pleased or kind
or gently sceptical expression or a forced imitation of these,
usu. with the lips parted and the corners of the mouth turned
up. 2 tr. express by smiling (smiled their consent). 3 tr.
give (a smile) of a specified kind (smiled a sardonic smile). 4
intr. (foll. by on, upon) adopt a favourable attitude towards;
encourage (fortune smiled on me). 5 intr. have a bright or
favourable aspect (the smiling countryside). 6 tr. (foll. by
away) drive (a person's anger etc.) away (smiled their tears
away). 7 intr. (foll. by at) a ridicule or show indifference to
(smiled at my feeble attempts). b favour; smile on. 8 tr.
(foll. by into, out of) bring (a person) into or out of a
specified mood etc. by smiling (smiled them into agreement).
--n. 1 the act or an instance of smiling. 2 a smiling
expression or aspect. Ьcome up smiling colloq. recover from
adversity and cheerfully face what is to come. ЬЬsmileless adj.
smiler n. smiley adj. smilingly adv. [ME perh. f. Scand.,
rel. to SMIRK: cf. OHG smilenter]
smirch v. & n. --v.tr. mark, soil, or smear (a thing, a person's
reputation, etc.). --n. 1 a spot or stain. 2 a blot (on one's
character etc.). [ME: orig. unkn.]
smirk n. & v. --n. an affected, conceited, or silly smile. --v.intr.
put on or wear a smirk. ЬЬsmirker n. smirkingly adv. smirky
adj. smirkily adv. [OE sme(a)rcian]
smit archaic past part. of SMITE.
smite v. & n. --v. (past smote; past part. smitten) archaic or
literary 1 tr. strike or hit. 2 tr. chastise; defeat. 3 tr.
(in passive) a have a sudden strong effect on (was smitten by
his conscience). b infatuate, fascinate (was smitten by her
beauty). 4 intr. (foll. by on, upon) come forcibly or abruptly
upon. --n. a blow or stroke. ЬЬsmiter n. [OE smitan smear f.
Gmc]
smith n. & v. --n. 1 (esp. in comb.) a worker in metal (goldsmith;
tinsmith). 2 a person who forges iron; a blacksmith. 3 a
craftsman (wordsmith). --v.tr. make or treat by forging. [OE
f. Gmc]
smithereens
n.pl. (also smithers) small fragments (smash into smithereens).
[19th c.: orig. unkn.]
smithery n. (pl. -ies) 1 a smith's work. 2 (esp. in naval dockyards) a
smithy.
smithy n. (pl. -ies) a blacksmith's workshop; a forge. [ME f. ON
smithja]
smitten past part. of SMITE.
smock n. & v. --n. 1 a loose shirtlike garment with the upper part
closely gathered in smocking. 2 (also smock-frock) a loose
overall, esp. hist. a field-labourer's outer linen garment.
--v.tr. adorn with smocking. [OE smoc, prob. rel. to OE smugan
creep, ON smjЈga put on a garment]
smocking n. an ornamental effect on cloth made by gathering the material
tightly into pleats, often with stitches in a honeycomb pattern.
smog n. fog intensified by smoke. ЬЬsmoggy adj. (smoggier,
smoggiest). [portmanteau word]
smoke n. & v. --n. 1 a visible suspension of carbon etc. in air,
emitted from a burning substance. 2 an act or period of smoking
tobacco (had a quiet smoke). 3 colloq. a cigarette or cigar
(got a smoke?). 4 (the Smoke) Brit. & Austral. colloq. a big
city, esp. London. --v. 1 intr. a emit smoke or visible
vapour (smoking ruins). b (of a lamp etc.) burn badly with the
emission of smoke. c (of a chimney or fire) discharge smoke
into the room. 2 a intr. inhale and exhale the smoke of a
cigarette or cigar or pipe. b intr. do this habitually. c tr.
use (a cigarette etc.) in this way. 3 tr. darken or preserve by
the action of smoke (smoked salmon). 4 tr. spoil the taste of
in cooking. 5 tr. a rid of insects etc. by the action of
smoke. b subdue (insects, esp. bees) in this way. 6 tr.
archaic make fun of. 7 tr. bring (oneself) into a specified
state by smoking. Ьgo up in smoke colloq. 1 be destroyed by
fire. 2 (of a plan etc.) come to nothing. no smoke without
fire rumours are not entirely baseless. smoke-ball 1 a
puff-ball. 2 a projectile filled with material emitting dense
smoke, used to conceal military operations etc. smoke bomb a
bomb that emits dense smoke on exploding. smoke-bush =
smoke-plant. smoked glass glass darkened with smoke.
smoke-dried cured in smoke. smoke-ho Austral. & NZ colloq. =
SMOKO. smoke out 1 drive out by means of smoke. 2 drive out of
hiding or secrecy etc. smoke-plant (or -tree) any ornamental
shrub of the genus Cotinus, with feathery smokelike
fruit-stalks. smoke-ring smoke from a cigarette etc. exhaled in
the shape of a ring. smoke-room Brit. = SMOKING-ROOM.
smoke-stone cairngorm. smoke-tunnel a form of wind-tunnel using
smoke filaments to show the motion of air. ЬЬsmokable adj.
(also smokeable). [OE smoca f. weak grade of the stem of
smeocan emit smoke]
smokeless adj. having or producing no smoke. Ьsmokeless zone a district
in which it is illegal to create smoke and where only smokeless
fuel may be used.
smoker n. 1 a person or thing that smokes, esp. a person who
habitually smokes tobacco. 2 a compartment on a train, in which
smoking is allowed. 3 esp. US an informal social gathering of
men. Ьsmoker's cough an ailment caused by excessive smoking.
smokescreen
n. 1 a cloud of smoke diffused to conceal (esp. military)
operations. 2 a device or ruse for disguising one's activities.
smokestack
n. 1 a chimney or funnel for discharging the smoke of a
locomotive or steamer. 2 a tall chimney.
smoking-jacket
n. an ornamental jacket formerly worn by men while smoking.
smoking-room
n. a room in a hotel or house, kept for smoking in.
smoko n. (pl. -os) Austral. & NZ colloq. 1 a stoppage of work for a
rest and a smoke. 2 a tea break.
smoky adj. (smokier, smokiest) 1 emitting, veiled or filled with, or
obscured by, smoke (smoky fire; smoky room). 2 stained with or
coloured like smoke (smoky glass). 3 having the taste or
flavour of smoked food (smoky bacon). ЬЬsmokily adv. smokiness
n.
smolder US var. of SMOULDER.
smolt n. a young salmon migrating to the sea for the first time. [ME
(orig. Sc. & N.Engl.): orig. unkn.]
smooch n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 Brit. a period of slow dancing close
together. 2 a spell of kissing and caressing. --v.intr. engage
in a smooch. ЬЬsmoocher n. smoochy adj. (smoochier,
smoochiest). [dial. smouch imit.]
smoodge v.intr. (also smooge) Austral. & NZ 1 behave in a fawning or
ingratiating manner. 2 behave amorously. [prob. var. of dial.
smudge kiss, sidle up to, beg in a sneaking way]
smooth adj., v., n., & adv. --adj. 1 having a relatively even and
regular surface; free from perceptible projections, lumps,
indentations, and roughness. 2 not wrinkled, pitted, scored, or
hairy (smooth skin). 3 that can be traversed without check. 4
(of liquids) of even consistency; without lumps (mix to a smooth
paste). 5 (of the sea etc.) without waves or undulations. 6
(of a journey, passage, progress, etc.) untroubled by
difficulties or adverse conditions. 7 having an easy flow or
correct rhythm (smooth breathing; a smooth metre). 8 a not
harsh in sound or taste. b (of wine etc.) not astringent. 9
(of a person, his or her manner, etc.) suave, conciliatory,
flattering, unruffled, or polite (a smooth talker; he's very
smooth). 10 (of movement etc.) not suddenly varying; not jerky.
--v. 1 tr. & intr. (often foll. by out, down) make or become
smooth. 2 (often foll. by out, down, over, away) a tr. reduce
or get rid of (differences, faults, difficulties, etc.) in fact
or appearance. b intr. (of difficulties etc.) diminish, become
less obtrusive (it will all smooth over). 3 tr. modify (a
graph, curve, etc.) so as to lessen irregularities. 4 tr. free
from impediments or discomfort (smooth the way; smooth the
declining years). --n. 1 a smoothing touch or stroke (gave his
hair a smooth). 2 the easy part of life (take the rough with
the smooth). --adv. smoothly (the course of true love never did
run smooth). Ьin smooth water having passed obstacles or
difficulties. smooth-bore a gun with an unrifled barrel.
smooth-faced hypocritically friendly. smoothing-iron hist. a
flat-iron. smoothing-plane a small plane for finishing the
planing of wood. smooth muscle a muscle without striations,
usu. occurring in hollow organs and performing involuntary
functions. smooth talk colloq. bland specious language.
smooth-talk v.tr. address or persuade with this.
smooth-tongued insincerely flattering. ЬЬsmoothable adj.
smoother n. smoothish adj. smoothly adv. smoothness n. [OE
smoth]
smoothie n. colloq. a person who is smooth (see SMOOTH adj. 9).
[SMOOTH]
smorgasbord
n. open sandwiches served with delicacies as hors d'oeuvres or
a buffet. [Sw. f. sm”r butter + g†s goose, lump of butter +
bord table]
smorzando adj., adv., & n. Mus. --adj. & adv. dying away. --n. (pl.
-os or smorzandi) a smorzando passage. [It., gerund of smorzare
extinguish]
smote past of SMITE.
smother v. & n. --v. 1 tr. suffocate; stifle; kill by stopping the
breath of or excluding air from. 2 tr. (foll. by with)
overwhelm with (kisses, gifts, kindness, etc.) (smothered with
affection). 3 tr. (foll. by in, with) cover entirely in or with
(chicken smothered in mayonnaise). 4 tr. extinguish or deaden
(a fire or flame) by covering it or heaping it with ashes etc.
5 intr. a die of suffocation. b have difficulty breathing. 6
tr. (often foll. by up) suppress or conceal; keep from notice or
publicity. 7 tr. US defeat rapidly or utterly. --n. 1 a
cloud of dust or smoke. 2 obscurity caused by this. Ьsmothered
mate Chess checkmate in which the king, having no vacant square
to move to, is checkmated by a knight. [ME smorther f. the stem
of OE smorian suffocate]
smothery adj. tending to smother; stifling.
smoulder v. & n. (US smolder) --v.intr. 1 burn slowly with smoke but
without a flame; slowly burn internally or invisibly. 2 (of
emotions etc.) exist in a suppressed or concealed state. 3 (of
a person) show silent or suppressed anger, hatred, etc. --n. a
smouldering or slow-burning fire. [ME, rel. to LG sm”ln, MDu.
sm”len]
smriti n. Hindu traditional teachings on religion etc. [Skr. smrti
remembrance]
smudge(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a blurred or smeared line or mark; a blot; a
smear of dirt. 2 a stain or blot on a person's character etc.
--v. 1 tr. make a smudge on. 2 intr. become smeared or blurred
(smudges easily). 3 tr. smear or blur the lines of (writing,
drawing, etc.) (smudge the outline). 4 tr. defile, sully,
stain, or disgrace (a person's name, character, etc.).
ЬЬsmudgeless adj. [ME: orig. unkn.]
smudge(2) n. US an outdoor fire with dense smoke made to keep off
insects, protect plants against frost, etc. Ьsmudge-pot a
container holding burning material that produces a smudge.
[smudge (v.) cure (herring) by smoking (16th c.: orig. unkn.)]
smudgy adj. (smudgier, smudgiest) 1 smudged. 2 likely to produce
smudges. ЬЬsmudgily adv. smudginess n.
smug adj. (smugger, smuggest) self-satisfied; complacent. ЬЬsmugly
adv. smugness n. [16th c., orig. 'neat' f. LG smuk pretty]
smuggle v.tr. 1 (also absol.) import or export (goods) illegally esp.
without payment of customs duties. 2 (foll. by in, out) convey
secretly. 3 (foll. by away) put into concealment. ЬЬsmuggler
n. smuggling n. [17th c. (also smuckle) f. LG smukkeln
smuggelen]
smut n. & v. --n. 1 a small flake of soot etc. 2 a spot or smudge
made by this. 3 obscene or lascivious talk, pictures, or
stories. 4 a a fungous disease of cereals in which parts of the
ear change to black powder. b any fungus of the order
Ustilaginales causing this. --v. (smutted, smutting) 1 tr.
mark with smuts. 2 tr. infect (a plant) with smut. 3 intr. (of
a plant) contract smut. Ьsmut-ball Agriculture grain affected
by smut. smut-mill a machine for freeing grain from smut.
ЬЬsmutty adj. (smuttier, smuttiest) (esp. in sense 3 of n.).
smuttily adv. smuttiness n. [rel. to LG smutt, MHG smutz(en)
etc.: cf. OE smitt(ian) smear, and SMUDGE(1)]
snack n. & v. --n. 1 a light, casual, or hurried meal. 2 a small
amount of food eaten between meals. 3 Austral. sl. something
easy to accomplish. --v.intr. eat a snack. Ьsnack bar a place
where snacks are sold. [ME, orig. a snap or bite, f. MDu.
snac(k) f. snacken (v.), var. of snappen]
snaffle n. & v. --n. (in full snaffle-bit) a simple bridle-bit without
a curb and usu. with a single rein. --v.tr. 1 put a snaffle
on. 2 colloq. steal; seize; appropriate. [prob. f. LG or Du.:
cf. MLG, MDu. snavel beak, mouth]
snafu adj. & n. sl. --adj. in utter confusion or chaos. --n. this
state. [acronym for ' situation normal: all fouled (or fucked)
up']
snag(1) n. & v. --n. 1 an unexpected or hidden obstacle or drawback.
2 a jagged or projecting point or broken stump. 3 a tear in
material etc. 4 a short tine of an antler. --v.tr. (snagged,
snagging) 1 catch or tear on a snag. 2 clear (land, a waterway,
a tree-trunk, etc.) of snags. 3 US catch or obtain by quick
action. ЬЬsnagged adj. snaggy adj. [prob. f. Scand.: cf.
Norw. dial. snag(e) sharp point]
snag(2) n. (usu. in pl.) Austral. sl. a sausage. [20th c.: orig.
unkn.]
snaggle-tooth
n. (pl. snaggle-teeth) an irregular or projecting tooth.
ЬЬsnaggle-toothed adj. [SNAG(1) + -LE(2)]
snail n. any slow-moving gastropod mollusc with a spiral shell able
to enclose the whole body. Ьsnail's pace a very slow movement.
ЬЬsnail-like adj. [OE sn‘g(e)l f. Gmc]
snake n. & v. --n. 1 a any long limbless reptile of the suborder
Ophidia, including boas, pythons, and poisonous forms such as
cobras and vipers. b a limbless lizard or amphibian. 2 (also
snake in the grass) a treacherous person or secret enemy. 3
(prec. by the) a system of interconnected exchange rates for the
EEC currencies. --v.intr. move or twist like a snake. Ьsnake
bird a fish-eating bird, Anhinga anhinga, with a long slender
neck. snake-charmer a person appearing to make snakes move by
music etc. snake-pit 1 a pit containing snakes. 2 a scene of
vicious behaviour. snakes and ladders a game with counters
moved along a board with advances up 'ladders' or returns down
'snakes' depicted on the board. snake's head a bulbous plant,
Fritillaria meleagris, with bell-shaped pendent flowers.
ЬЬsnakelike adj. [OE snaca]
snakeroot n. any of various N. American plants, esp. Cimicifuga
racemosa, with roots reputed to contain an antidote to snake's
poison.
snaky adj. 1 of or like a snake. 2 winding; sinuous. 3 showing
coldness, ingratitude, venom, or guile. 4 a infested with
snakes. b (esp. of the hair of the Furies) composed of snakes.
5 Austral. sl. angry; irritable. ЬЬsnakily adv. snakiness n.
snap v., n., adv., & adj. --v. (snapped, snapping) 1 intr. & tr.
break suddenly or with a snap. 2 intr. & tr. emit or cause to
emit a sudden sharp sound or crack. 3 intr. & tr. open or close
with a snapping sound (the bag snapped shut). 4 a intr. (often
foll. by at) speak irritably or spitefully (to a person) (did
not mean to snap at you). b tr. say irritably or spitefully. 5
intr. (often foll. by at) (esp. of a dog etc.) make a sudden
audible bite. 6 tr. & intr. move quickly (snap into action). 7
tr. take a snapshot of. 8 tr. Amer. Football put (the ball)
into play on the ground by a quick backward movement. --n. 1
an act or sound of snapping. 2 a crisp biscuit or cake (brandy
snap; ginger snap). 3 a snapshot. 4 (in full cold snap) a
sudden brief spell of cold weather. 5 Brit. a a card-game in
which players call 'snap' when two similar cards are exposed. b
(as int.) on noticing the (often unexpected) similarity of two
things. 6 crispness of style; fresh vigour or liveliness in
action; zest; dash; spring. 7 US sl. an easy task (it was a
snap). --adv. with the sound of a snap (heard it go snap).
--adj. done or taken on the spur of the moment, unexpectedly, or
without notice (snap decision). Ьsnap at accept (bait, a
chance, etc.) eagerly (see also senses 4a and 5 of v.). snap
bean US a bean grown for its pods which are broken into pieces
and eaten. snap-bolt (or -lock) a bolt etc. which locks
automatically when a door or window closes. snap-brim (of a
hat) with a brim that can be turned up and down at opposite
sides. snap-fastener = press-stud (see PRESS(1)). snap one's
fingers 1 make an audible fillip, esp. in rhythm to music etc.
2 (often foll. by at) defy; show contempt for. snap-hook (or
-link) a hook or link with a spring allowing the entrance but
barring the escape of a cord, link, etc. snap off break off or
bite off. snap off a person's head address a person angrily or
rudely. snap out say irritably. snap out of sl. get rid of (a
mood, habit, etc.) by a sudden effort. snapping turtle any
large American freshwater turtle of the family Chelydridae which
seizes prey with a snap of its jaws. snap up 1 accept (an
offer, a bargain) quickly or eagerly. 2 pick up or catch
hastily or smartly. 3 interrupt (another person) before he or
she has finished speaking. ЬЬsnappable adj. snappingly adv.
[prob. f. MDu. or MLG snappen, partly imit.]
snapdragon
n. a plant, Antirrhinum majus, with a bag-shaped flower like a
dragon's mouth.
snapper n. 1 a person or thing that snaps. 2 any of several fish of
the family Lutjanidae, used as food. 3 a snapping turtle. 4 US
a cracker (as a toy).
snappish adj. 1 (of a person's manner or a remark) curt; ill-tempered;
sharp. 2 (of a dog etc.) inclined to snap. ЬЬsnappishly adv.
snappishness n.
snappy adj. (snappier, snappiest) colloq. 1 brisk, full of zest. 2
neat and elegant (a snappy dresser). 3 snappish. Ьmake it
snappy be quick about it. ЬЬsnappily adv. snappiness n.
snapshot n. a casual photograph taken quickly with a small hand-camera.
snare n. & v. --n. 1 a trap for catching birds or animals, esp. with
a noose of wire or cord. 2 a thing that acts as a temptation.
3 a device for tempting an enemy etc. to expose himself or
herself to danger, failure, loss, capture, defeat, etc. 4 (in
sing. or pl.) Mus. twisted strings of gut, hide, or wire
stretched across the lower head of a side-drum to produce a
rattling sound. 5 (in full snare drum) a drum fitted with
snares. 6 Surgery a wire loop for extracting polyps etc.
--v.tr. 1 catch (a bird etc.) in a snare. 2 ensnare; lure or
trap (a person) with a snare. ЬЬsnarer n. (also in comb.). [OE
sneare f. ON snara: senses 4 & 5 prob. f. MLG or MDu.]
snark n. a fabulous animal, orig. the subject of a nonsense poem.
[The Hunting of the Snark (1876) by Lewis Carroll]
snarl(1) v. & n. --v. 1 intr. (of a dog) make an angry growl with bared
teeth. 2 intr. (of a person) speak cynically; make bad-tempered
complaints or criticisms. 3 tr. (often foll. by out) a utter in
a snarling tone. b express (discontent etc.) by snarling. --n.
the act or sound of snarling. ЬЬsnarler n. snarlingly adv.
snarly adj. (snarlier, snarliest). [earlier snar f. (M)LG, MHG
snarren]
snarl(2) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by up) twist; entangle;
confuse and hamper the movement of (traffic etc.). 2 intr.
(often foll. by up) become entangled, congested, or confused. 3
tr. adorn the exterior of (a narrow metal vessel) with raised
work. --n. a knot or tangle. Ьsnarling iron an implement used
for snarling metal. snarl-up colloq. a traffic jam; a muddle;
a mistake. [ME f. snare (n. & v.): sense 3 perh. f. noun in
dial. sense 'knot in wood']
snatch v. & n. --v.tr. 1 seize quickly, eagerly, or unexpectedly,
esp. with outstretched hands. 2 steal (a wallet, handbag,
etc.). 3 secure with difficulty (snatched an hour's rest). 4
(foll. by away, from) take away or from esp. suddenly (snatched
away my hand). 5 (foll. by from) rescue narrowly (snatched from
the jaws of death). 6 (foll. by at) a try to seize by
stretching or grasping suddenly. b take (an offer etc.)
eagerly. --n. 1 an act of snatching (made a snatch at it). 2
a fragment of a song or talk etc. (caught a snatch of their
conversation). 3 US sl. a kidnapping. 4 (in weight-lifting)
the rapid raising of a weight from the floor to above the head.
5 a short spell of activity etc. Ьin (or by) snatches in fits
and starts. ЬЬsnatcher n. (esp. in sense 3 of n.). snatchy
adj. [ME snecchen, sna(c)che, perh. rel. to SNACK]
snazzy adj. (snazzier, snazziest) sl. smart or attractive esp. in an
ostentatious way. ЬЬsnazzily adv. snazziness n. [20th c.:
orig. unkn.]
sneak v., n., & adj. --v. 1 intr. & tr. (foll. by in, out, past,
away, etc.) go or convey furtively; slink. 2 tr. sl. steal
unobserved; make off with. 3 intr. Brit. schoolsl. tell
tales; turn informer. 4 intr. (as sneaking adj.) a furtive;
undisclosed (have a sneaking affection for him). b persistent
in one's mind; nagging (a sneaking feeling that it is not
right). --n. 1 a mean-spirited cowardly underhand person. 2
Brit. schoolsl. a tell-tale. --adj. acting or done without
warning; secret (a sneak attack). Ьsneak-thief a thief who
steals without breaking in; a pickpocket. ЬЬsneakingly adv.
[16th c., prob. dial.: perh. rel. to ME snike, OE snican creep]
sneaker n. sl. each of a pair of soft-soled canvas etc. shoes.
sneaky adj. (sneakier, sneakiest) given to or characterized by
sneaking; furtive, mean. ЬЬsneakily adv. sneakiness n.
sneck n. & v. Sc. & N.Engl. --n. a latch. --v.tr. latch (a door
etc.); close or fasten with a sneck. [ME, rel. to SNATCH]
sneer n. & v. --n. a derisive smile or remark. --v. 1 intr. (often
foll. by at) smile derisively. 2 tr. say sneeringly. 3 intr.
(often foll. by at) speak derisively esp. covertly or ironically
(sneered at his attempts). ЬЬsneerer n. sneeringly adv. [16th
c.: orig. unkn.]
sneeze n. & v. --n. 1 a sudden involuntary expulsion of air from the
nose and mouth caused by irritation of the nostrils. 2 the
sound of this. --v.intr. make a sneeze. Ьnot to be sneezed at
colloq. not contemptible; considerable; notable. ЬЬsneezer n.
sneezy adj. [ME snese, app. alt. of obs. fnese f. OE -fnesan,
ON fn°sa & replacing earlier and less expressive nese]
sneezewort
n. a kind of yarrow, Achillea ptarmica, whose dried leaves are
used to induce sneezing.
Snell's law
n. Physics the law that the ratio of the sines of the angles of
incidence and refraction of a wave are constant when it passes
between two given media. [W. Snell, Du. mathematician d. 1626]
snib v. & n. Sc. & Ir. --v.tr. (snibbed, snibbing) bolt, fasten,
or lock (a door etc.). --n. a lock, catch, or fastening for a
door or window. [19th c.: orig. uncert.]
snick v. & n. --v.tr. 1 cut a small notch in. 2 make a small
incision in. 3 Cricket deflect (the ball) slightly with the
bat. --n. 1 a small notch or cut. 2 Cricket a slight
deflection of the ball by the bat. [18th c.: prob. f.
snick-a-snee fight with knives]
snicker v. & n. --v.intr. 1 = SNIGGER v. 2 whinny, neigh. --n. 1 =
SNIGGER n. 2 a whinny, a neigh. ЬЬsnickeringly adv. [imit.]
snide adj. & n. --adj. 1 sneering; slyly derogatory; insinuating. 2
counterfeit; bogus. 3 US mean; underhand. --n. a snide person
or remark. ЬЬsnidely adv. snideness n. [19th-c. colloq.:
orig. unkn.]
sniff v. & n. --v. 1 intr. draw up air audibly through the nose to
stop it running or to detect a smell or as an expression of
contempt. 2 tr. (often foll. by up) draw in (a scent, drug,
liquid, or air) through the nose. 3 tr. draw in the scent of
(food, drink, flowers, etc.) through the nose. --n. 1 an act
or sound of sniffing. 2 the amount of air etc. sniffed up.
Ьsniff at 1 try the smell of; show interest in. 2 show contempt
for or discontent with. sniff out detect; discover by
investigation. ЬЬsniffingly adv. [ME, imit.]
sniffer n. 1 a person who sniffs, esp. one who sniffs a drug or toxic
substances (often in comb.: glue-sniffer). 2 sl. the nose. 3
colloq. any device for detecting gas, radiation, etc.
Ьsniffer-dog colloq. a dog trained to sniff out drugs or
explosives.
sniffle v. & n. --v.intr. sniff slightly or repeatedly. --n. 1 the
act of sniffling. 2 (in sing. or pl.) a cold in the head
causing a running nose and sniffling. ЬЬsniffler n. sniffly
adj. [imit.: cf. SNIVEL]
sniffy adj. colloq. (sniffier, sniffiest) 1 inclined to sniff. 2
disdainful; contemptuous. ЬЬsniffily adv. sniffiness n.
snifter n. 1 sl. a small drink of alcohol. 2 US a balloon glass for
brandy. Ьsnifter-valve a valve in a steam engine to allow air
in or out. [dial. snift sniff, perh. f. Scand.: imit.]
snig v.tr. (snigged, snigging) Austral. & NZ drag with a jerk.
Ьsnigging chain a chain used to move logs. [E dial.]
snigger n. & v. --n. a half-suppressed secretive laugh. --v.intr.
utter such a laugh. ЬЬsniggerer n. sniggeringly adv. [var. of
SNICKER]
sniggle v.intr. fish (for eels) by pushing bait into a hole. [ME snig
small eel, of unkn. orig.]
snip v. & n. --v.tr. (snipped, snipping) (also absol.) cut (cloth,
a hole, etc.) with scissors or shears, esp. in small quick
strokes. --n. 1 an act of snipping. 2 a piece of material
etc. snipped off. 3 sl. a something easily achieved. b Brit.
a bargain; something cheaply acquired. 4 (in pl.) hand-shears
for metal cutting. Ьsnip at make snipping strokes at.
ЬЬsnipping n. [LG & Du. snippen imit.]
snipe n. & v. --n. (pl. same or snipes) any of various wading birds,
esp. of the genus Gallinago, with a long straight bill and
frequenting marshes. --v. 1 intr. fire shots from hiding usu.
at long range. 2 tr. kill by sniping. 3 intr. (foll. by at)
make a sly critical attack. 4 intr. go snipe-shooting. Ьsnipe
eel any eel of the family Nemichthyidae, having a long slender
snout. snipe fish any marine fish of the family
Macrorhamphosidae, with a long slender snout. ЬЬsniper n. [ME,
prob. f. Scand.: cf. Icel. m°risnЎpa, & MDu., MLG snippe, OHG
snepfa]
snippet n. 1 a small piece cut off. 2 (usu. in pl.; often foll. by of)
a a scrap or fragment of information, knowledge, etc. b a short
extract from a book, newspaper, etc. ЬЬsnippety adj.
snit n. US a rage; a sulk (esp. in a snit). [20th c.: orig. unkn.]
snitch v. & n. --v. sl. 1 tr. steal. 2 intr. (often foll. by on)
inform on a person. --n. an informer. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
snivel v. & n. --v.intr. (snivelled, snivelling; US sniveled,
sniveling) 1 weep with sniffling. 2 run at the nose; make a
repeated sniffing sound. 3 show weak or tearful sentiment.
--n. 1 running mucus. 2 hypocritical talk; cant. ЬЬsniveller
n. snivelling adj. snivellingly adv. [ME f. OE snyflan
(unrecorded) f. snofl mucus: cf. SNUFFLE]
snob n. 1 a a person with an exaggerated respect for social position
or wealth and who despises socially inferior connections. b
(attrib.) related to or characteristic of this attitude. 2 a
person who behaves with servility to social superiors. 3 a
person who despises others whose (usu. specified) tastes or
attainments are considered inferior (an intellectual snob; a
wine snob). ЬЬsnobbery n. (pl. -ies). snobbish adj.
snobbishly adv. snobbishness n. snobby adj. (snobbier,
snobbiest). [18th c. (now dial.) 'cobbler': orig. unkn.]
snoek n. S.Afr. a barracouta. [Afrik. f. Du., = PIKE(1), f. MLG
snok, prob. rel. to SNACK]
snog v. & n. Brit. sl. --v.intr. (snogged, snogging) engage in
kissing and caressing. --n. a spell of snogging. [20th c.:
orig. unkn.]
snood n. 1 an ornamental hairnet usu. worn at the back of the head.
2 a ring of woollen etc. material worn as a hood. 3 a short
line attaching a hook to a main line in sea fishing. 4 hist. a
ribbon or band worn by unmarried women in Scotland to confine
their hair. [OE snod]
snook(1) n. sl. a contemptuous gesture with the thumb to the nose and
the fingers spread out. Ьcock a snook (often foll. by at) 1
make this gesture. 2 register one's contempt (for a person,
establishment, etc.). [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
snook(2) n. a marine fish, Centropomus undecimalis, used as food. [Du.
snoek: see SNOEK]
snooker n. & v. --n. 1 a game played with cues on a rectangular
baize-covered table in which the players use a cue-ball (white)
to pocket the other balls (15 red and 6 coloured) in a set
order. 2 a position in this game in which a direct shot at a
permitted ball is impossible. --v.tr. 1 (also refl.) subject
(oneself or another player) to a snooker. 2 (esp. as snookered
adj.) sl. defeat; thwart. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
snoop v. & n. colloq. --v.intr. 1 pry into matters one need not be
concerned with. 2 (often foll. by about, around) investigate in
order to find out transgressions of the law etc. --n. 1 an act
of snooping. 2 a person who snoops; a detective. ЬЬsnooper n.
snoopy adj. [Du. snoepen eat on the sly]
snooperscope
n. US a device which converts infrared radiation into a visible
image, esp. used for seeing in the dark.
snooze n. & v. colloq. --n. a short sleep, esp. in the daytime.
--v.intr. take a snooze. ЬЬsnoozer n. snoozy adj. (snoozier,
snooziest). [18th-c. sl.: orig. unkn.]
snore n. & v. --n. a snorting or grunting sound in breathing during
sleep. --v.intr. make this sound. Ьsnore away pass (time)
sleeping or snoring. ЬЬsnorer n. snoringly adv. [ME, prob.
imit.: cf. SNORT]
snorkel n. & v. (also schnorkel) --n. 1 a breathing-tube for an
underwater swimmer. 2 a device for supplying air to a submerged
submarine. --v.intr. (snorkelled, snorkelling; US snorkeled,
snorkeling) use a snorkel. ЬЬsnorkeller n. [G Schnorchel]
snort n. & v. --n. 1 an explosive sound made by the sudden forcing
of breath through the nose, esp. expressing indignation or
incredulity. 2 a similar sound made by an engine etc. 3
colloq. a small drink of liquor. 4 an inhaled dose of a (usu.
illegal) powdered drug. --v. 1 intr. make a snort. 2 intr.
(of an engine etc.) make a sound resembling this. 3 tr. (also
absol.) sl. inhale (a usu. illegal narcotic drug, esp. cocaine
or heroin). 4 tr. express (defiance etc.) by snorting. Ьsnort
out express (words, emotions, etc.) by snorting. [ME, prob.
imit.: cf. SNORE]
snorter n. colloq. 1 something very impressive or difficult. 2
something vigorous or violent.
snot n. sl. 1 nasal mucus. 2 a term of contempt for a person.
Ьsnot-rag a handkerchief. [prob. f. MDu., MLG snotte, MHG snuz,
rel. to SNOUT]
snotty adj. (snottier, snottiest) sl. 1 running or foul with nasal
mucus. 2 contemptible. 3 supercilious, conceited. ЬЬsnottily
adv. snottiness n.
snout n. 1 the projecting nose and mouth of an animal. 2 derog. a
person's nose. 3 the pointed front of a thing; a nozzle. 4
Brit. sl. tobacco or a cigarette. Ьsnout-beetle a weevil.
ЬЬsnouted adj. (also in comb.). snoutlike adj. snouty adj.
[ME f. MDu., MLG snut]
snow n. & v. --n. 1 atmospheric vapour frozen into ice crystals and
falling to earth in light white flakes. 2 a fall of this, or a
layer of it on the ground. 3 a thing resembling snow in
whiteness or texture etc. 4 a mass of flickering white spots on
a television or radar screen, caused by interference or a poor
signal. 5 sl. cocaine. 6 a dessert or other dish resembling
snow. 7 frozen carbon dioxide. --v. 1 intr. (prec. by it as
subject) snow falls (it is snowing; if it snows). 2 tr. (foll.
by in, over, up, etc.) confine or block with large quantities of
snow. 3 tr. & intr. sprinkle or scatter or fall as or like
snow. 4 intr. come in large numbers or quantities. 5 tr. US
sl. deceive or charm with plausible words. Ьbe snowed under be
overwhelmed, esp. with work. snow-blind temporarily blinded by
the glare of light reflected by large expanses of snow.
snow-blindness this blindness. snow-blink the reflection in the
sky of snow or ice fields. snow boot an overboot of rubber and
cloth. snow-broth melted or melting snow. snow bunting a
mainly white finch, Plectrophenax nivalis. snow goose a white
Arctic goose, Anser caerulescens, with black-tipped wings.
snow-ice opaque white ice formed from melted snow. snow leopard
= OUNCE(2). snow owl = snowy owl. snow partridge a mainly
white partridge, Lerwa lerwa. snow-slip an avalanche.
snow-white pure white. ЬЬsnowless adj. snowlike adj. [OE snaw
f. Gmc]
snowball n. & v. --n. 1 snow pressed together into a ball, esp. for
throwing in play. 2 anything that grows or increases rapidly
like a snowball rolled on snow. --v. 1 intr. & tr. throw or
pelt with snowballs. 2 intr. increase rapidly. Ьsnowball-tree
a guelder rose.
snowberry n. (pl. -ies) any shrub of the genus Symphoricarpos, with
white berries.
snowblower
n. a machine that clears snow by blowing it to the side of the
road etc.
snowbound adj. prevented by snow from going out or travelling.
snowcap n. 1 the tip of a mountain when covered with snow. 2 a
white-crowned humming-bird, Microchera albocoronata, native to
Central America. ЬЬsnowcapped adj.
snowdrift n. a bank of snow heaped up by the action of the wind.
snowdrop n. a bulbous plant, Galanthus nivalis, with white drooping
flowers in the early spring.
snowfall n. 1 a fall of snow. 2 Meteorol. the amount of snow that falls
on one occasion or on a given area within a given time.
snowfield n. a permanent wide expanse of snow in mountainous or polar
regions.
snowflake n. 1 each of the small collections of crystals in which snow
falls. 2 a any bulbous plant of the genus Leucojum, with
snowdrop-like flowers. b the white flower of this plant.
snowline n. the level above which snow never melts entirely.
snowman n. (pl. -men) a figure resembling a man, made of compressed
snow.
snowmobile
n. a motor vehicle, esp. with runners or Caterpillar tracks,
for travelling over snow.
snowplough
n. (US snowplow) a device, or a vehicle equipped with one, for
clearing roads of thick snow.
snowshoe n. & v. --n. a flat device like a racket attached to a boot for
walking on snow without sinking in. --v.intr. travel on
snowshoes. ЬЬsnowshoer n.
snowstorm n. a heavy fall of snow, esp. with a high wind.
snowy adj. (snowier, snowiest) 1 of or like snow. 2 (of the weather
etc.) with much snow. Ьsnowy owl a large white owl, Nyctea
scandiaca, native to the Arctic. ЬЬsnowily adv. snowiness n.
SNP abbr. Scottish National Party.
Snr. abbr. Senior.
snub v., n., & adj. --v.tr. (snubbed, snubbing) 1 rebuff or
humiliate with sharp words or a marked lack of cordiality. 2
check the movement of (a boat, horse, etc.) esp. by a rope wound
round a post etc. --n. an act of snubbing; a rebuff. --adj.
short and blunt in shape. Ьsnub nose a short turned-up nose.
snub-nosed having a snub nose. ЬЬsnubber n. snubbingly adv.
[ME f. ON snubba chide, check the growth of]
snuff(1) n. & v. --n. the charred part of a candle-wick. --v.tr. trim
the snuff from (a candle). Ьsnuff it Brit. sl. die. snuff
out 1 extinguish by snuffing. 2 kill; put an end to. [ME
snoffe, snuffe: orig. unkn.]
snuff(2) n. & v. --n. powdered tobacco or medicine taken by sniffing it
up the nostrils. --v.intr. take snuff. Ьsnuff-coloured dark
yellowish-brown. up to snuff colloq. 1 Brit. knowing; not
easily deceived. 2 up to standard. [Du. snuf (tabak tobacco)
f. MDu. snuffen snuffle]
snuffbox n. a small usu. ornamental box for holding snuff.
snuffer n. 1 a small hollow cone with a handle used to extinguish a
candle. 2 (in pl.) an implement like scissors used to
extinguish a candle or trim its wick.
snuffle v. & n. --v. 1 intr. make sniffing sounds. 2 a intr. speak
nasally, whiningly, or like one with a cold. b tr. (often foll.
by out) say in this way. 3 intr. breathe noisily as through a
partially blocked nose. 4 intr. sniff. --n. 1 a snuffling
sound or tone. 2 (in pl.) a partial blockage of the nose
causing snuffling. 3 a sniff. ЬЬsnuffler n. snuffly adj.
[prob. f. LG & Du. snuffelen (as SNUFF(2)): cf. SNIVEL]
snuffy(2) adj. like snuff in colour or substance. [SNUFF(2) + -Y(2)]
snug adj. & n. --adj. (snugger, snuggest) 1 a cosy, comfortable,
sheltered; well enclosed or placed or arranged. b cosily
protected from the weather or cold. 2 (of an income etc.)
allowing comfort and comparative ease. --n. Brit. a small room
in a pub or inn. ЬЬsnugly adv. snugness n. [16th c. (orig.
Naut.): prob. of LG or Du. orig.]
snuggery n. (pl. -ies) 1 a snug place, esp. a person's private room or
den. 2 Brit. = SNUG n.
snuggle v.intr. & tr. (usu. foll. by down, up, together) settle or draw
into a warm comfortable position. [SNUG + -LE(4)]
so(1) adv. & conj. --adv. 1 (often foll. by that + clause) to such
an extent, or to the extent implied (why are you so angry?; do
stop complaining so; they were so pleased that they gave us a
bonus). 2 (with neg.; often foll. by as + clause) to the extent
to which ... is or does etc., or to the extent implied (was not
so late as I expected; am not so eager as you). °In positive
constructions as ... as ... is used: see AS(1). 3 (foll. by
that or as + clause) to the degree or in the manner implied (so
expensive that few can afford it; so small as to be invisible;
am not so foolish as to agree to that). 4 (adding emphasis) to
that extent; in that or a similar manner (I want to leave and so
does she; you said it was good, and so it is). 5 to a great or
notable degree (I am so glad). 6 (with verbs of state) in the
way described (am not very fond of it but may become so). 7
(with verb of saying or thinking etc.) as previously mentioned
or described (I think so; so he said; so I should hope).
--conj. (often foll. by that + clause) 1 with the result that
(there was none left, so we had to go without). 2 in order that
(came home early so that I could see you). 3 and then; as the
next step (so then the car broke down; and so to bed). 4 a
(introducing a question) then; after that (so what did you tell
them?). b (absol.) = so what? Ьand so on (or forth) 1 and
others of the same kind. 2 and in other similar ways. so as
(foll. by to + infin.) in order to (did it so as to get it
finished). so be it an expression of acceptance or resignation.
so-called commonly designated or known as, often incorrectly.
so far see FAR. so far as see FAR. so far so good see FAR. so
long! colloq. goodbye till we meet again. so long as see
LONG(1). so much 1 a certain amount (of). 2 a great deal of
(is so much nonsense). 3 (with neg.) a less than; to a lesser
extent (not so much forgotten as ignored). b not even (didn't
give me so much as a penny). so much for that is all that need
be done or said about. so so adj. (usu. predic.) indifferent;
not very good. --adv. indifferently; only moderately well. so
to say (or speak) an expression of reserve or apology for an
exaggeration or neologism etc. so what? colloq. why should
that be considered significant? [OE swa etc.]
so(2) var. of SOH.
-so comb. form = -SOEVER.
soak v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. make or become thoroughly wet
through saturation with or in liquid. 2 tr. (of rain etc.)
drench. 3 tr. (foll. by in, up) a absorb (liquid). b acquire
(knowledge etc.) copiously. 4 refl. (often foll. by in) steep
(oneself) in a subject of study etc. 5 intr. (foll. by in,
into, through) (of liquid) make its way or penetrate by
saturation. 6 tr. colloq. extract money from by an
extortionate charge, taxation, etc. (soak the rich). 7 intr.
colloq. drink persistently, booze. 8 tr. (as soaked adj.) very
drunk. --n. 1 the act of soaking or the state of being soaked.
2 a drinking-bout. 3 colloq. a hard drinker. ЬЬsoakage n.
soaker n. soaking n. & adj. [OE socian rel. to soc sucking at
the breast, sucan SUCK]
soakaway n. an arrangement for disposing of waste water by letting it
percolate through the soil.
so-and-so n. (pl. so-and-so's) 1 a particular person or thing not
needing to be specified (told me to do so-and-so). 2 colloq. a
person disliked or regarded with disfavour (the so-and-so left
me behind).
soap n. & v. --n. 1 a cleansing agent that is a compound of fatty
acid with soda or potash or (insoluble soap) with another
metallic oxide, of which the soluble kinds when rubbed in water
yield a lather used in washing. 2 colloq. = soap opera.
--v.tr. 1 apply soap to. 2 scrub or rub with soap. Ьsoap
flakes soap in the form of thin flakes, for washing clothes etc.
soap opera a broadcast drama, usu. serialized in many episodes,
dealing with sentimental domestic themes (so called because
orig. sponsored in the US by soap manufacturers). soap powder
powdered soap esp. with additives. ЬЬsoapless adj. soaplike
adj. [OE sape f. WG]
soapbark n. an American tree, Quillaja saponaria, with bark yielding
saponin.
soapberry n. (pl. -ies) any of various tropical American shrubs, esp. of
the genus Sapindus, with fruits yielding saponin.
soapbox n. 1 a box for holding soap. 2 a makeshift stand for a public
speaker.
soapstone n. steatite.
soapsuds n.pl. = SUDS 1.
soapwort n. a European plant, Saponaria officinalis, with pink or white
flowers and leaves yielding a soapy substance.
soapy adj. (soapier, soapiest) 1 of or like soap. 2 containing or
smeared with soap. 3 (of a person or manner) unctuous or
flattering. ЬЬsoapily adv. soapiness n.
soar v.intr. 1 fly or rise high. 2 reach a high level or standard
(prices soared). 3 maintain height in the air without flapping
the wings or using power. ЬЬsoarer n. soaringly adv. [ME f.
OF essorer ult. f. L (as EX-(1), aura breeze)]
sob v. & n. --v. (sobbed, sobbing) 1 intr. draw breath in
convulsive gasps usu. with weeping under mental distress or
physical exhaustion. 2 tr. (usu. foll. by out) utter with sobs.
3 tr. bring (oneself) to a specified state by sobbing (sobbed
themselves to sleep). --n. a convulsive drawing of breath, esp.
in weeping. Ьsob story a story or explanation appealing mainly
to the emotions. sob-stuff colloq. sentimental talk or
writing. ЬЬsobber n. sobbingly adv. [ME sobbe (prob. imit.)]
sober adj. & n. --adj. (soberer, soberest) 1 not affected by
alcohol. 2 not given to excessive drinking of alcohol. 3
moderate, well-balanced, tranquil, sedate. 4 not fanciful or
exaggerated (the sober truth). 5 (of a colour etc.) quiet and
inconspicuous. --v.tr. & intr. (often foll. by down, up) make
or become sober or less wild, reckless, enthusiastic, visionary,
etc. (a sobering thought). Ьas sober as a judge completely
sober. ЬЬsoberingly adv. soberly adv. [ME f. OF sobre f. L
sobrius]
sobriety n. the state of being sober. [ME f. OF sobriet‚ or L sobrietas
(as SOBER)]
sobriquet n. (also soubriquet) 1 a nickname. 2 an assumed name. [F,
orig. = 'tap under the chin']
Soc. abbr. 1 Socialist. 2 Society.
socage n. (also soccage) a feudal tenure of land involving payment of
rent or other non-military service to a superior. [ME f. AF
socage f. soc f. OE socn SOKE]
soccer n. Association football. [ASSOC. + -ER(3)]
sociable adj. & n. --adj. 1 fitted for or liking the society of other
people; ready and willing to talk and act with others. 2 (of a
person's manner or behaviour etc.) friendly. 3 (of a meeting
etc.) marked by friendliness, not stiff or formal. --n. 1 an
open carriage with facing side seats. 2 an S-shaped couch for
two occupants partly facing each other. 3 US a social.
ЬЬsociability n. sociableness n. sociably adv. [F sociable or
L sociabilis f. sociare to unite f. socius companion]
social adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or relating to society or its
organization. 2 concerned with the mutual relations of human
beings or of classes of human beings. 3 living in organized
communities; unfitted for a solitary life (man is a social
animal). 4 a needing companionship; gregarious, interdependent.
b cooperative; practising the division of labour. 5 existing
only as a member of a compound organism. 6 a (of insects)
living together in organized communities. b (of birds) nesting
near each other in communities. 7 (of plants) growing thickly
together and monopolizing the ground they grow on. --n. a
social gathering, esp. one organized by a club, congregation,
etc. Ьsocial anthropology the comparative study of peoples
through their culture and kinship systems. social climber
derog. a person anxious to gain a higher social status. social
contract (or compact) an agreement to cooperate for social
benefits, e.g. by sacrificing some individual freedom for State
protection. social credit the economic theory that the profits
of industry should be distributed to the general public. social
democracy a socialist system achieved by democratic means.
social democrat a person who advocates social democracy. social
order the network of human relationships in society. social
realism the expression of social or political views in art.
social science a the scientific study of human society and
social relationships. b a branch of this (e.g. politics or
economics). social scientist a student of or expert in the
social sciences. social secretary a person who makes
arrangements for the social activities of a person or
organization. social security State assistance to those lacking
in economic security and welfare, e.g. the aged and the
unemployed. social service philanthropic activity. social
services services provided by the State for the community, esp.
education, health, and housing. social war hist. a war fought
between allies. social work work of benefit to those in need of
help or welfare, esp. done by specially trained personnel.
social worker a person trained to do social work. ЬЬsociality
n. socially adv. [F social or L socialis allied f. socius
friend]
socialism n. 1 a political and economic theory of social organization
which advocates that the community as a whole should own and
control the means of production, distribution, and exchange. 2
policy or practice based on this theory. ЬЬsocialist n. & adj.
socialistic adj. socialistically adv. [F socialisme (as
SOCIAL)]
socialite n. a person prominent in fashionable society.
socialize v. (also -ise) 1 intr. act in a sociable manner. 2 tr. make
social. 3 tr. organize on socialistic principles. Ьsocialized
medicine US the provision of medical services for all from
public funds. ЬЬsocialization n.
society n. (pl. -ies) 1 the sum of human conditions and activity
regarded as a whole functioning interdependently. 2 a social
community (all societies must have firm laws). 3 a a social
mode of life. b the customs and organization of an ordered
community. 4 Ecol. a plant community. 5 a the socially
advantaged or prominent members of a community (society would
not approve). b this, or a part of it, qualified in some way
(is not done in polite society). 6 participation in
hospitality; other people's homes or company (avoids society).
7 companionship, company (avoids the society of such people). 8
an association of persons united by a common aim or interest or
principle (formed a music society). ЬSociety of Friends see
QUAKER. Society of Jesus see JESUIT. ЬЬsocietal adj. (esp. in
sense 1). societally adv. [F soci‚t‚ f. L societas -tatis f.
socius companion]
socio- comb. form 1 of society (and). 2 of or relating to sociology
(and). [L socius companion]
sociobiology
n. the scientific study of the biological aspects of social
behaviour. ЬЬsociobiological adj. sociobiologically adv.
sociobiologist n.
sociocultural
adj. combining social and cultural factors. ЬЬsocioculturally
adv.
socio-economic
adj. relating to or concerned with the interaction of social
and economic factors. ЬЬsocio-economically adv.
sociolinguistic
adj. relating to or concerned with language in its social
aspects. ЬЬsociolinguist n. sociolinguistically adv.
sociolinguistics
n. the study of language in relation to social factors.
sociology n. 1 the study of the development, structure, and functioning
of human society. 2 the study of social problems.
ЬЬsociological adj. sociologically adv. sociologist n. [F
sociologie (as SOCIO-, -LOGY)]
sociometry
n. the study of relationships within a group of people.
ЬЬsociometric adj. sociometrically adv. sociometrist n.
sock(1) n. (pl. socks or or informal & Commerce sox) 1 a short knitted
covering for the foot, usu. not reaching the knee. 2 a
removable inner sole put into a shoe for warmth etc. 3 an
ancient Greek or Roman comic actor's light shoe. 4 comic drama.
Ьpull one's socks up Brit. colloq. make an effort to improve.
put a sock in it Brit. sl. be quiet. [OE socc f. L soccus
comic actor's shoe, light low-heeled slipper, f. Gk sukkhos]
sock(2) v. & n. colloq. --v.tr. hit (esp. a person) forcefully. --n.
1 a hard blow. 2 US the power to deliver a blow. Ьsock it to
attack or address (a person) vigorously. [c.1700 (cant): orig.
unkn.]
socket n. & v. --n. 1 a natural or artificial hollow for something to
fit into or stand firm or revolve in. 2 Electr. a device
receiving a plug, light-bulb, etc., to make a connection. 3
Golf the part of an iron club into which the shaft is fitted.
--v.tr. (socketed, socketing) 1 place in or fit with a socket.
2 Golf hit (a ball) with the socket of a club. [ME f. AF,
dimin. of OF soc ploughshare, prob. of Celt. orig.]
sockeye n. a blue-backed salmon of Alaska etc., Oncorhynchus nerka.
[Salish sukai fish of fishes]
socle n. Archit. a plain low block or plinth serving as a support
for a column, urn, statue, etc., or as the foundation of a wall.
[F f. It. zoccolo orig. 'wooden shoe' f. L socculus f. soccus
SOCK(1)]
Socratic adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to the Greek philosopher
Socrates (d. 399 BC) or his philosophy, esp. the method
associated with him of seeking the truth by a series of
questions and answers. --n. a follower of Socrates. ЬSocratic
irony a pose of ignorance assumed in order to entice others into
making statements that can then be challenged. ЬЬSocratically
adv. [L Socraticus f. Gk Sokratikos f. Sokrates]
sod(1) n. & v. --n. 1 turf or a piece of turf. 2 the surface of the
ground. --v.tr. (sodded, sodding) cover (the ground) with
sods. Ьunder the sod in the grave. [ME f. MDu., MLG sode, of
unkn. orig.]
sod(2) n. & v. esp. Brit. coarse sl. °Often considered a taboo
word. --n. 1 an unpleasant or awkward person or thing. 2 a
person of a specified kind; a fellow (the lucky sod). --v.tr.
(sodded, sodding) 1 (often absol. or as int.) an exclamation of
annoyance (sod them, I don't care!). 2 (as sodding adj.) a
general term of contempt. Ьsod off go away. Sod's Law =
MURPHY'S LAW. [abbr. of SODOMITE]
soda n. 1 any of various compounds of sodium in common use, e.g.
washing soda, caustic soda. 2 (in full soda water) water made
effervescent by impregnation with carbon dioxide under pressure
and used alone or with spirits etc. as a drink (orig. made with
sodium bicarbonate). 3 esp. US a sweet effervescent drink.
Ьsoda bread bread leavened with baking-soda. soda fountain 1 a
device supplying soda water. 2 a shop or counter equipped with
this. soda lime a mixture of calcium oxide and sodium
hydroxide. [med.L, perh. f. sodanum glasswort (used as a
remedy for headaches) f. soda headache f. Arab. suda' f.
sada' a split]
sodality n. (pl. -ies) a confraternity or association, esp. a Roman
Catholic religious guild or brotherhood. [F sodalit‚ or L
sodalitas f. sodalis comrade]
sodden adj. & v. --adj. 1 saturated with liquid; soaked through. 2
rendered stupid or dull etc. with drunkenness. 3 (of bread
etc.) doughy; heavy and moist. --v.intr. & tr. become or make
sodden. ЬЬsoddenly adv. soddenness n. [archaic past part. of
SEETHE]
sodium n. Chem. a soft silver-white reactive metallic element,
occurring naturally in soda, salt, etc., that is important in
industry and is an essential element in living organisms.
°Symb.: Na. Ьsodium bicarbonate a white soluble powder used in
the manufacture of fire extinguishers and effervescent drinks.
sodium carbonate a white powder with many commercial
applications including the manufacture of soap and glass.
sodium chloride a colourless crystalline compound occurring
naturally in sea water and halite; common salt. sodium
hydroxide a deliquescent compound which is strongly alkaline and
used in the manufacture of salt and pepper: also called caustic
soda. sodium nitrate a white powdery compound used mainly in
the manufacture of fertilizers. sodium-vapour lamp (or sodium
lamp) a lamp using an electrical discharge in sodium vapour and
giving a yellow light. ЬЬsodic adj. [SODA + -IUM]
Sodom n. a wicked or depraved place. [Sodom in ancient Palestine,
destroyed for its wickedness (Gen. 18-19)]
sodomite n. a person who practises sodomy. [ME f. OF f. LL Sodomita f.
Gk Sodomites inhabitant of Sodom f. Sodoma Sodom]
sodomy n. = BUGGERY. ЬЬsodomize v.tr. (also -ise). [ME f. med.L
sodomia f. LL peccatum Sodomiticum sin of Sodom: see SODOM]
soever adv. literary of any kind; to any extent (how great soever it
may be).
-soever comb. form (added to relative pronouns, adverbs, and adjectives)
of any kind; to any extent (whatsoever; howsoever).
sofa n. a long upholstered seat with a back and arms, for two or
more people. Ьsofa bed a sofa that can be converted into a
temporary bed. [F, ult. f. Arab. suffa]
soffit n. the under-surface of an architrave, arch, balcony, etc. [F
soffite or It. soffitta, -itto ult. f. L suffixus (as SUFFIX)]
S. of S. abbr. Song of Songs (Old Testament).
soft adj., adv., & n. --adj. 1 (of a substance, material, etc.)
lacking hardness or firmness; yielding to pressure; easily cut.
2 (of cloth etc.) having a smooth surface or texture; not rough
or coarse. 3 (of air etc.) mellow, mild, balmy; not noticeably
cold or hot. 4 (of water) free from mineral salts and therefore
good for lathering. 5 (of a light or colour etc.) not brilliant
or glaring. 6 (of a voice or sounds) gentle and pleasing. 7
Phonet. a (of a consonant) sibilant or palatal (as c in ice, g
in age). b voiced or unaspirated. 8 (of an outline etc.) not
sharply defined. 9 (of an action or manner etc.) gentle,
conciliatory, complimentary, amorous. 10 (of the heart or
feelings etc.) compassionate, sympathetic. 11 (of a person's
character or attitude etc.) feeble, lenient, silly, sentimental.
12 colloq. (of a job etc.) easy. 13 (of drugs) mild; not likely
to cause addiction. 14 (of radiation) having little penetrating
power. 15 (also soft-core) (of pornography) suggestive or
erotic but not explicit. 16 Stock Exch. (of currency, prices,
etc.) likely to fall in value. 17 Polit. moderate; willing to
compromise (the soft left). 18 peaceful (soft slumbers). 19
Brit. (of the weather etc.) rainy or moist or thawing. --adv.
softly (play soft). --n. a silly weak person. Ьbe soft on
colloq. 1 be lenient towards. 2 be infatuated with. have a
soft spot for be fond of or affectionate towards (a person).
soft answer a good-tempered answer to abuse or an accusation.
soft-boiled (of an egg) lightly boiled with the yolk soft or
liquid. soft-centred (of a person) soft-hearted, sentimental.
soft coal bituminous coal. soft detergent a biodegradable
detergent. soft drink a non-alcoholic drink. soft focus
Photog. the slight deliberate blurring of a picture. soft
fruit Brit. small stoneless fruit (strawberry, currant, etc.).
soft furnishings Brit. curtains, rugs, etc. soft goods Brit.
textiles. soft-headed feeble-minded. soft-headedness
feeble-mindedness. soft-land make a soft landing . soft
landing a landing by a spacecraft without its suffering major
damage. soft option the easier alternative. soft palate the
rear part of the palate. soft-paste denoting an 'artificial'
porcelain containing glassy materials and fired at a
comparatively low temperature. soft pedal a pedal on a piano
that makes the tone softer. soft-pedal v.tr. & (often foll. by
on) intr. (-pedalled, -pedalling; US -pedaled, -pedaling) 1
refrain from emphasizing; be restrained (about). 2 play with
the soft pedal down. soft roe see ROE(1). soft sell restrained
or subtly persuasive salesmanship. soft-sell v.tr. (past and
past part. -sold) sell by this method. soft soap 1 a semifluid
soap made with potash. 2 colloq. persuasive flattery.
soft-soap v.tr. colloq. persuade (a person) with flattery.
soft-spoken speaking with a gentle voice. soft sugar granulated
or powdered sugar. soft tack bread or other good food (opp.
hard tack). soft tissues tissues of the body that are not bony
or cartilaginous. soft touch colloq. a gullible person, esp.
over money. soft wicket a wicket with moist or sodden turf.
ЬЬsoftish adj. softness n. [OE softe agreeable, earlier sefte
f. WG]
softa n. a Muslim student of sacred law and theology. [Turk. f.
Pers. sukta burnt, afire]
softball n. 1 a ball like a baseball but softer and larger. 2 a
modified form of baseball using this.
soften v. 1 tr. & intr. make or become soft or softer. 2 tr. (often
foll. by up) a reduce the strength of (defences) by bombing or
some other preliminary attack. b reduce the resistance of (a
person). Ьsoftening of the brain a morbid degeneration of the
brain, esp. in old age. ЬЬsoftener n.
soft-hearted
adj. tender, compassionate; easily moved. ЬЬsoft-heartedness
n.
softie n. (also softy) colloq. a weak or silly or soft-hearted
person.
softly adv. in a soft, gentle, or quiet manner. Ьsoftly softly (of an
approach or strategy) cautious; discreet and cunning.
software n. the programs and other operating information used by a
computer (opp. HARDWARE 3).
softwood n. the wood of pine, spruce, or other conifers, easily sawn.
softy var. of SOFTIE.
SOGAT abbr. (in the UK) Society of Graphical and Allied Trades.
°From 1982 officially called SOGAT 82.
soggy adj. (soggier, soggiest) sodden, saturated, dank. ЬЬsoggily
adv. sogginess n. [dial. sog a swamp]
soh n. (also so, sol) Mus. 1 (in tonic sol-fa) the fifth note of a
major scale. 2 the note G in the fixed-doh system. [sol f. ME
sol f. L solve: see GAMUT]
soi-disant
adj. self-styled or pretended. [F f. soi oneself + disant
saying]
soign‚ adj. (fem. soign‚e pronunc. same) carefully finished or
arranged; well-groomed. [past part. of F soigner take care of
f. soin care]
soil(1) n. 1 the upper layer of earth in which plants grow, consisting
of disintegrated rock usu. with an admixture of organic remains
(alluvial soil; rich soil). 2 ground belonging to a nation;
territory (on British soil). Ьsoil mechanics the study of the
properties of soil as affecting its use in civil engineering.
soil science pedology. ЬЬsoilless adj. soily adj. [ME f. AF,
perh. f. L solium seat, taken in sense of L solum ground]
soil(2) v. & n. --v.tr. 1 make dirty; smear or stain with dirt (soiled
linen). 2 tarnish, defile; bring discredit to (would not soil
my hands with it). --n. 1 a dirty mark; a stain, smear, or
defilement. 2 filth; refuse matter. Ьsoil pipe the
discharge-pipe of a lavatory. [ME f. OF suiller, soiller, etc.,
ult. f. L sucula dimin. of sus pig]
soil(3) v.tr. feed (cattle) on fresh-cut green fodder (orig. for
purging). [perh. f. SOIL(2)]
soir‚e n. an evening party, usu. in a private house, for conversation
or music. [F f. soir evening]
soixante-neuf
n. sl. sexual activity between two people involving mutual
oral stimulation of the genitals. [F, = sixty-nine, from the
position of the couple]
sojourn n. & v. --n. a temporary stay. --v.intr. stay temporarily.
ЬЬsojourner n. [ME f. OF sojorn etc. f. LL SUB- + diurnum day]
soke n. Brit. hist. 1 a right of local jurisdiction. 2 a district
under a particular jurisdiction and administration. [ME f. AL
soca f. OE socn prosecution f. Gmc]
Sol n. (in Roman mythology) the sun, esp. as a personification.
[ME f. L]
sol(1) var. of SOH.
sol(2) n. Chem. a liquid suspension of a colloid. [abbr. of
SOLUTION]
sola(1) n. a pithy-stemmed E. Indian swamp plant, Aeschynomene indica.
Ьsola topi an Indian sun-helmet made from its pith. [Urdu &
Bengali sola, Hindi shola]
sola(2) fem. of SOLUS.
solace n. & v. --n. comfort in distress, disappointment, or tedium.
--v.tr. give solace to. Ьsolace oneself with find compensation
or relief in. [ME f. OF solas f. L solatium f. solari
CONSOLE(1)]
solan n. (in full solan goose) a gannet, Sula bassana. [prob. f. ON
sЈla gannet + ”nd, and- duck]
solanaceous
adj. of or relating to the plant family Solanaceae, including
potatoes, nightshades, and tobacco. [mod.L solanaceae f. L
solanum nightshade]
solar adj. & n. --adj. of, relating to, or reckoned by the sun (solar
eclipse; solar time). --n. 1 a solarium. 2 an upper chamber
in a medieval house. Ьsolar battery (or cell) a device
converting solar radiation into electricity. solar constant the
quantity of heat reaching the earth from the sun. solar day the
interval between successive meridian transits of the sun at a
place. solar month one-twelfth of the solar year. solar myth a
tale explained as symbolizing solar phenomena. solar panel a
panel designed to absorb the sun's rays as a source of energy
for operating electricity or heating. solar plexus a complex of
radiating nerves at the pit of the stomach. solar system the
sun and the celestial bodies whose motion it governs. solar
wind the continuous flow of charged particles from the sun.
solar year the time taken for the earth to travel once round the
sun, equal to 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 46 seconds.
[ME f. L solaris f. sol sun]
solarium n. (pl. solaria) a room equipped with sun-lamps or fitted with
extensive areas of glass for exposure to the sun. [L, =
sundial, sunning-place (as SOLAR)]
solarize v.intr. & tr. (also -ise) Photog. undergo or cause to undergo
change in the relative darkness of parts of an image by long
exposure. ЬЬsolarization n.
solatium n. (pl. solatia) a thing given as a compensation or
consolation. [L, = SOLACE]
sold past and past part. of SELL.
soldanella
n. any dwarf Alpine plant of the genus Soldanella, having
bell-shaped flowers with fringed petals. [mod.L f. It.]
solder n. & v. --n. 1 a fusible alloy used to join less fusible
metals or wires etc. 2 a cementing or joining agency. --v.tr.
join with solder. Ьsoldering iron a tool used for applying
solder. ЬЬsolderable n. solderer n. [ME f. OF soudure f.
souder f. L solidare fasten f. solidus SOLID]
soldier n. & v. --n. 1 a person serving in or having served in an
army. 2 (in full common soldier) a private or NCO in an army.
3 a military commander of specified ability (a great soldier).
4 (in full soldier ant) a wingless ant or termite with a large
head and jaws for fighting in defence of its colony. 5 (in full
soldier beetle) a reddish-coloured beetle, Rhagonycha fulva,
with flesh-eating larvae. --v.intr. serve as a soldier (was off
soldiering). Ьsoldier of Christ an active or proselytizing
Christian. soldier of fortune an adventurous person ready to
take service under any State or person; a mercenary. soldier on
colloq. persevere doggedly. ЬЬsoldierly adj. soldiership n.
[ME souder etc. f. OF soudier, soldier f. soulde (soldier's)
pay f. L solidus: see SOLIDUS]
soldiery n. (pl. -ies) 1 soldiers, esp. of a specified character. 2 a
group of soldiers.
sole(1) n. & v. --n. 1 the under-surface of the foot. 2 the part of a
shoe, sock, etc., corresponding to this (esp. excluding the
heel). 3 the lower surface or base of an implement, e.g. a
plough, golf-club head, etc. 4 the floor of a ship's cabin.
--v.tr. provide (a shoe etc.) with a sole. Ьsole-plate the
bedplate of an engine etc. ЬЬ-soled adj. (in comb.). [OF ult.
f. L solea sandal, sill: cf. OE unrecorded solu or sola f.
solum bottom, pavement, sole]
sole(2) n. any flatfish of the family Soleidae, esp. Solea solea used
as food. [ME f. OF f. Prov. sola ult. f. L solea (as SOLE(1),
named from its shape)]
sole(3) adj. 1 (attrib.) one and only; single, exclusive (the sole
reason; has the sole right). 2 archaic or Law (esp. of a woman)
unmarried. 3 archaic alone, unaccompanied. ЬЬsolely adv. [ME
f. OF soule f. L sola fem. of solus alone]
solecism n. 1 a mistake of grammar or idiom; a blunder in the manner of
speaking or writing. 2 a piece of bad manners or incorrect
behaviour. ЬЬsolecist n. solecistic adj. [F sol‚cisme or L
soloecismus f. Gk soloikismos f. soloikos speaking incorrectly]
solemn adj. 1 serious and dignified (a solemn occasion). 2 formal;
accompanied by ceremony (a solemn oath). 3 mysteriously
impressive. 4 (of a person) serious or cheerless in manner
(looks rather solemn). 5 full of importance; weighty (a solemn
warning). 6 grave, sober, deliberate; slow in movement or
action (a solemn promise; solemn music). Ьsolemn mass = high
mass (see MASS(2)). ЬЬsolemnly adv. solemness n. [ME f. OF
solemne f. L sol(l)emnis customary, celebrated at a fixed date
f. sollus entire]
solemnity n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state of being solemn; a solemn character
or feeling; solemn behaviour. 2 a rite or celebration; a piece
of ceremony. [ME f. OF solem(p)nit‚ f. L sollemnitas -tatis (as
SOLEMN)]
solemnize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 duly perform (a ceremony esp. of marriage).
2 celebrate (a festival etc.). 3 make solemn. ЬЬsolemnization
n. [ME f. OF solem(p)niser f. med.L solemnizare (as SOLEMN)]
solen n. any razor-shell of the genus Solen. [L f. Gk solen tube,
shellfish]
solenoid n. a cylindrical coil of wire acting as a magnet when carrying
electric current. ЬЬsolenoidal adj. [F sol‚no‹de (as SOLEN)]
sol-fa n. & v. --n. = SOLMIZATION; (cf. tonic sol-fa). --v.tr.
(-fas, -faed) sing (a tune) with sol-fa syllables. [SOL(1) +
FA]
solfatara n. a volcanic vent emitting only sulphurous and other vapours.
[name of a volcano near Naples, f. It. solfo sulphur]
solfeggio n. (pl. solfeggi) Mus. 1 an exercise in singing using sol-fa
syllables. 2 solmization. [It. (as SOL-FA)]
soli pl. of SOLO.
solicit v. (solicited, soliciting) 1 tr. & (foll. by for) intr. ask
repeatedly or earnestly for or seek or invite (business etc.).
2 tr. (often foll. by for) make a request or petition to (a
person). 3 tr. accost (a person) and offer one's services as a
prostitute. ЬЬsolicitation n. [ME f. OF solliciter f. L
sollicitare agitate f. sollicitus anxious f. sollus entire +
citus past part., = set in motion]
solicitor n. 1 Brit. a member of the legal profession qualified to deal
with conveyancing, draw up wills, etc., and to advise clients
and instruct barristers. 2 a person who solicits. 3 US a
canvasser. 4 US the chief law officer of a city etc.
ЬSolicitor-General 1 (in the UK) the Crown law officer below the
Attorney General or (in Scotland) below the Lord Advocate. 2
(in the US) the law officer below the Attorney General. [ME f.
OF solliciteur (as SOLICIT)]
solicitous
adj. 1 (often foll. by of, about, etc.) showing interest or
concern. 2 (foll. by to + infin.) eager, anxious.
ЬЬsolicitously adv. solicitousness n. [L sollicitus (as
SOLICIT)]
solicitude
n. 1 the state of being solicitous; solicitous behaviour. 2
anxiety or concern. [ME f. OF sollicitude f. L sollicitudo (as
SOLICITOUS)]
solid adj. & n. --adj. (solider, solidest) 1 firm and stable in
shape; not liquid or fluid (solid food; water becomes solid at
0шC). 2 of such material throughout, not hollow or containing
cavities (a solid sphere). 3 of the same substance throughout
(solid silver). 4 of strong material or construction or build,
not flimsy or slender etc. 5 a having three dimensions. b
concerned with solids (solid geometry). 6 a sound and reliable;
genuine (solid arguments). b staunch and dependable (a solid
Tory). 7 sound but without any special flair etc. (a solid
piece of work). 8 financially sound. 9 (of time)
uninterrupted, continuous (spend four solid hours on it). 10 a
unanimous, undivided (support has been pretty solid so far). b
(foll. by for) united in favour of. 11 (of printing) without
spaces between the lines etc. 12 (of a tyre) without a central
air space. 13 (foll. by with) US colloq. on good terms. 14
Austral. & NZ colloq. severe, unreasonable. --n. 1 a solid
substance or body. 2 (in pl.) solid food. 3 Geom. a body or
magnitude having three dimensions. Ьsolid angle an angle formed
by planes etc. meeting at a point. solid colour colour covering
the whole of an object, without a pattern etc. solid-drawn (of
a tube etc.) pressed or drawn out from a solid bar of metal.
solid solution solid material containing one substance uniformly
distributed in another. solid state the state of matter that
retains its boundaries without support. solid-state adj. using
the electronic properties of solids (e.g. a semiconductor) to
replace those of valves. ЬЬsolidly adv. solidness n. [ME f.
OF solide f. L solidus, rel. to salvus safe, sollus entire]
solidarity
n. 1 unity or agreement of feeling or action, esp. among
individuals with a common interest. 2 mutual dependence. [F
solidarit‚ f. solidaire f. solide SOLID]
solidi pl. of SOLIDUS.
solidify v.tr. & intr. (-ies, -ied) make or become solid.
ЬЬsolidification n. solidifier n.
solidity n. the state of being solid; firmness.
solidus n. (pl. solidi) 1 an oblique stroke (/) used in writing
fractions (3/4), to separate other figures and letters, or to
denote alternatives (and/or) and ratios (miles/day). 2 (in full
solidus curve) a curve in a graph of the temperature and
composition of a mixture, below which the substance is entirely
solid. 3 hist. a gold coin of the later Roman Empire. [ME (in
sense 3) f. L: see SOLID]
solifluction
n. the gradual movement of wet soil etc. down a slope. [L
solum soil + L fluctio flowing f. fluere fluct- flow]
soliloquy n. (pl. -ies) 1 the act of talking when alone or regardless of
any hearers, esp. in drama. 2 part of a play involving this.
ЬЬsoliloquist n. soliloquize v.intr. (also -ise). [LL
soliloquium f. L solus alone + loqui speak]
soliped adj. & n. --adj. (of an animal) solid-hoofed. --n. a
solid-hoofed animal. [F solipЉde or mod.L solipes -pedis f. L
solidipes f. solidus solid + pes foot]
solipsism n. Philos. the view that the self is all that exists or can be
known. ЬЬsolipsist n. solipsistic adj. solipsistically adv.
[L solus alone + ipse self]
solitaire n. 1 a diamond or other gem set by itself. 2 a ring having a
single gem. 3 a game for one player played by removing pegs
etc. one at a time from a board by jumping others over them
until only one is left. 4 US = PATIENCE 4. 5 any of various
extinct dodo-like flightless birds of the family Raphidae. 6
any American thrush of the genus Myadestes. [F f. L solitarius
(as SOLITARY)]
solitary adj. & n. --adj. 1 living alone; not gregarious; without
companions; lonely (a solitary existence). 2 (of a place)
secluded or unfrequented. 3 single or sole (a solitary
instance). 4 (of an insect) not living in communities. 5 Bot.
growing singly, not in a cluster. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 a recluse
or anchorite. 2 colloq. = solitary confinement. Ьsolitary
confinement isolation of a prisoner in a separate cell as a
punishment. ЬЬsolitarily adv. solitariness n. [ME f. L
solitarius f. solus alone]
solitude n. 1 the state of being solitary. 2 a lonely place. [ME f. OF
solitude or L solitudo f. solus alone]
solmization
n. Mus. a system of associating each note of a scale with a
particular syllable, now usu. doh ray me fah soh lah te, with
doh as C in the fixed-doh system and as the keynote in the
movable-doh or tonic sol-fa system. ЬЬsolmizate v.intr. & tr.
[F solmisation (as SOL(1), MI)]
solo n., v., & adv. --n. (pl. -os) 1 (pl. -os or soli) a a vocal
or instrumental piece or passage, or a dance, performed by one
person with or without accompaniment. b (attrib.) performed or
performing as a solo (solo passage; solo violin). 2 a an
unaccompanied flight by a pilot in an aircraft. b anything done
by one person unaccompanied. c (attrib.) unaccompanied, alone.
3 (in full solo whist) a a card-game like whist in which one
player may oppose the others. b a declaration or the act of
playing to win five tricks at this. --v. (-oes, -oed) 1 intr.
perform a solo, esp. a solo flight. 2 tr. perform or achieve as
a solo. --adv. unaccompanied, alone (flew solo for the first
time). Ьsolo stop an organ stop especially suitable for
imitating a solo performance on another instrument. [It. f. L
solus alone]
soloist n. a performer of a solo, esp. in music.
Solomon n. a very wise person. ЬSolomon's seal 1 a figure like the
Star of David. 2 any liliaceous plant of the genus Polygonatum,
with arching stems and drooping green and white flowers.
ЬЬSolomonic adj. [Solomon, king of Israel in the 10th c. BC,
famed for his wisdom]
solstice n. 1 either of the times when the sun is furthest from the
equator. 2 the point in its ecliptic reached by the sun at a
solstice. Ьsummer solstice the time at which the sun is
furthest north from the equator, about 21 June in the northern
hemisphere. winter solstice the time at which the sun is
furthest south from the equator, about 22 Dec. in the northern
hemisphere. ЬЬsolstitial adj. [ME f. OF f. L solstitium f.
sol sun + sistere stit- make stand]
solubilize
v.tr. (also -ise) make soluble or more soluble.
ЬЬsolubilization n.
soluble adj. 1 that can be dissolved, esp. in water. 2 that can be
solved. Ьsoluble glass = water-glass. ЬЬsolubility n. [ME f.
OF f. LL solubilis (as SOLVE)]
solus predic.adj. (fem. sola) (esp. in a stage direction) alone,
unaccompanied. [L]
solute n. a dissolved substance. [L solutum, neut. of solutus: see
SOLVE]
solution n. 1 the act or a means of solving a problem or difficulty. 2
a the conversion of a solid or gas into a liquid by mixture with
a liquid solvent. b the state resulting from this (held in
solution). 3 the act of dissolving or the state of being
dissolved. 4 the act of separating or breaking. 5 = rubber
solution (see RUBBER(1)). Ьsolution set Math. the set of all
the solutions of an equation or condition. [ME f. OF f. L
solutio -onis (as SOLVE)]
Solutrean n. & adj. (also Solutrian) --n. the palaeolithic period in
Europe following the Aurignacian and preceding the Magdalenian.
--n. the culture of this period. [Solutr‚ in E. France, where
remains of it were found]
solvate v.intr. & tr. enter or cause to enter combination with a
solvent. ЬЬsolvation n.
solve v.tr. find an answer to, or an action or course that removes or
effectively deals with (a problem or difficulty). ЬЬsolvable
adj. solver n. [ME, = loosen, f. L solvere solut- unfasten,
release]
solvent adj. & n. --adj. 1 able to dissolve or form a solution with
something. 2 having enough money to meet one's liabilities.
--n. 1 a solvent liquid etc. 2 a dissolving or weakening
agent. ЬЬsolvency n. (in sense 2).
Som. abbr. Somerset.
soma(1) n. 1 the body as distinct from the soul. 2 the body of an
organism as distinct from its reproductive cells. [Gk soma
-atos body]
soma(2) n. 1 an intoxicating drink used in Vedic ritual. 2 a plant
yielding this. [Skr. soma]
Somali n. & adj. --n. 1 (pl. same or Somalis) a member of a Hamitic
Muslim people of Somalia in NE Africa. 2 the Cushitic language
of this people. --adj. of or relating to this people or
language. ЬЬSomalian adj. [native name]
somatic adj. of or relating to the body, esp. as distinct from the
mind. Ьsomatic cell any cell of a living organism except the
reproductive cells. ЬЬsomatically adv. [Gk somatikos (as
SOMA(1))]
somato- comb. form the human body. [Gk soma -atos body]
somatogenic
adj. originating in the body.
somatology
n. the science of living bodies physically considered.
somatotonic
adj. like a mesomorph in temperament, with predominantly
physical interests.
somatotrophin
n. a growth hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. [as
SOMATO-, TROPHIC]
somatotype
n. physique expressed in relation to various extreme types.
sombre adj. (also US somber) 1 dark, gloomy (a sombre sky). 2
oppressively solemn or sober. 3 dismal, foreboding (a sombre
prospect). ЬЬsombrely adv. sombreness n. [F sombre f. OF
sombre (n.) ult. f. L SUB- + umbra shade]
sombrero n. (pl. -os) a broad-brimmed felt or straw hat worn esp. in
Mexico and the south-west US. [Sp. f. sombra shade (as
SOMBRE)]
some adj., pron., & adv. --adj. 1 an unspecified amount or number
of (some water; some apples; some of them). 2 that is unknown
or unnamed (will return some day; some fool has locked the door;
to some extent). 3 denoting an approximate number (waited some
twenty minutes). 4 a considerable amount or number of (went to
some trouble). 5 (usu. stressed) a at least a small amount of
(do have some consideration). b such to a certain extent (that
is some help). c colloq. notably such (I call that some story).
--pron. some people or things, some number or amount (I have
some already; would you like some more?). --adv. colloq. to
some extent (we talked some; do it some more). Ьand then some
sl. and plenty more than that. some few see FEW. [OE sum f.
Gmc]
-some(1) suffix forming adjectives meaning: 1 adapted to; productive of
(cuddlesome; fearsome). 2 characterized by being (fulsome;
lithesome). 3 apt to (tiresome; meddlesome). [OE -sum]
-some(2) suffix forming nouns from numerals, meaning 'a group of (so
many)' (foursome). [OE sum SOME, used after numerals in genit.
pl.]
-some(3) comb. form denoting a portion of a body, esp. of a cell
(chromosome; ribosome). [Gk soma body]
somebody pron. & n. --pron. some person. --n. (pl. -ies) a person of
importance (is really somebody now).
someday adv. at some time in the future.
somehow adv. 1 for some reason or other (somehow I never liked them).
2 in some unspecified or unknown way (he somehow dropped
behind). 3 no matter how (must get it finished somehow).
someone n. & pron. = SOMEBODY.
someplace adv. US colloq. = SOMEWHERE.
somersault
n. & v. (also summersault) --n. an acrobatic movement in which
a person turns head over heels in the air or on the ground and
lands on the feet. --v.intr. perform a somersault. [OF
sombresault alt. f. sobresault ult. f. L supra above + saltus
leap f. salire to leap]
something n., pron., & adv. --n. & pron. 1 a some unspecified or unknown
thing (have something to tell you; something has happened). b
(in full something or other) as a substitute for an unknown or
forgotten description (a student of something or other). 2 a
known or understood but unexpressed quantity, quality, or extent
(there is something about it I do not like; is something of a
fool). 3 colloq. an important or notable person or thing (the
party was quite something). --adv. archaic in some degree.
Ьor something or some unspecified alternative possibility (must
have run away or something). see something of encounter (a
person) briefly or occasionally. something else 1 something
different. 2 colloq. something exceptional. something like 1
an amount in the region of (left something like a million
pounds). 2 somewhat like (shaped something like a cigar). 3
colloq. impressive; a fine specimen of. something of to some
extent; in some sense (is something of an expert). [OE sum
thing (as SOME, THING)]
sometime adv. & adj. --adv. 1 at some unspecified time. 2 formerly.
--adj. former (the sometime mayor).
sometimes adv. at some times; occasionally.
somewhat adv., n., & pron. --adv. to some extent (behaviour that was
somewhat strange; answered somewhat hastily). --n. & pron.
archaic something (loses somewhat of its force). Ьmore than
somewhat colloq. very (was more than somewhat perplexed).
somewhen adv. colloq. at some time.
somewhere adv. & pron. --adv. in or to some place. --pron. some
unspecified place. Ьget somewhere colloq. achieve success.
somewhere about approximately.
somite n. each body-division of a metamerically segmented animal.
ЬЬsomitic adj. [Gk soma body + -ITE(1)]
sommelier n. a wine waiter. [F, = butler, f. somme pack (as SUMPTER)]
somnambulism
n. 1 sleepwalking. 2 a condition of the brain inducing this.
ЬЬsomnambulant adj. somnambulantly adv. somnambulist n.
somnambulistic adj. somnambulistically adv. [L somnus sleep +
ambulare walk]
somniferous
adj. inducing sleep; soporific. [L somnifer f. somnium dream]
somnolent adj. 1 sleepy, drowsy. 2 inducing drowsiness. 3 Med. in a
state between sleeping and waking. ЬЬsomnolence n. somnolency
n. somnolently adv. [ME f. OF sompnolent or L somnolentus f.
somnus sleep]
son n. 1 a boy or man in relation to either or both of his parents.
2 a a male descendant. b (foll. by of) a male member of a
family, nation, etc. 3 a person regarded as inheriting an
occupation, quality, etc., or associated with a particular
attribute (sons of freedom; sons of the soil). 4 (in full my
son) a form of address esp. to a boy. 5 (the Son) (in Christian
belief) the second person of the Trinity. Ьson-in-law (pl.
sons-in-law) the husband of one's daughter. son of a bitch sl.
a general term of contempt. son of a gun colloq. a jocular or
affectionate form of address or reference. ЬЬsonless adj.
sonship n. [OE sunu f. Gmc]
sonant adj. & n. Phonet. --adj. (of a sound) voiced and syllabic.
--n. a voiced sound, esp. other than a vowel and capable of
forming a syllable, e.g. l, m, n, ng, r. ЬЬsonancy n. [L
sonare sonant- sound]
sonar n. 1 a system for the underwater detection of objects by
reflected or emitted sound. 2 an apparatus for this. [sound
navigation and ranging, after radar]
sonata n. a composition for one instrument or two (one usu. being a
piano accompaniment), usu. in several movements with one (esp.
the first) or more in sonata form. Ьsonata form a type of
composition in three sections (exposition, development, and
recapitulation) in which two themes (or subjects) are explored
according to set key relationships. [It., = sounded (orig. as
distinct from sung): fem. past part. of sonare sound]
sonatina n. a simple or short sonata. [It., dimin. of SONATA]
sonde n. a device sent up to obtain information about atmospheric
conditions, esp. = RADIOSONDE. [F, = sounding(-line)]
sone n. a unit of subjective loudness, equal to 40 phons. [L sonus
sound]
son et lumiЉre
n. an entertainment by night at a historic monument, building,
etc., using lighting effects and recorded sound to give a
dramatic narrative of its history. [F, = sound and light]
song n. 1 a short poem or other set of words set to music or meant
to be sung. 2 singing or vocal music (burst into song). 3 a
musical composition suggestive of a song. 4 the musical cry of
some birds. 5 a short poem in rhymed stanzas. 6 archaic poetry
or verse. Ьfor a song colloq. very cheaply. on song Brit.
colloq. performing exceptionally well. song and dance colloq.
a fuss or commotion. song cycle a set of musically linked songs
on a romantic theme. Song of Songs (or of Solomon) a poetic Old
Testament book traditionally attributed to Solomon. song
sparrow a N. American sparrow, Melospiza melodia, with a
characteristic musical song. song thrush a thrush, Turdus
philomelos, of Europe and W. Asia, with a song partly mimicked
from other birds. ЬЬsongless adj. [OE sang f. Gmc (as SING)]
songbird n. a bird with a musical call.
songbook n. a collection of songs with music.
songsmith n. a writer of songs.
songster n. (fem. songstress) 1 a singer, esp. a fluent and skilful
one. 2 a songbird. 3 a poet. 4 US a songbook. [OE sangestre
(as SONG, -STER)]
songwriter
n. a writer of songs or the music for them.
sonic adj. of or relating to or using sound or sound waves. Ьsonic
bang (or boom) a loud explosive noise caused by the shock wave
from an aircraft when it passes the speed of sound. sonic
barrier = sound barrier (see SOUND(1)). sonic mine a mine
exploded by the sound of a passing ship. ЬЬsonically adv. [L
sonus sound]
sonnet n. & v. --n. a poem of 14 lines (usu. pentameters) using any of
a number of formal rhyme schemes, in English usu. having ten
syllables per line. --v. (sonneted, sonneting) 1 intr. write
sonnets. 2 tr. address sonnets to. [F sonnet or It. sonetto
dimin. of suono SOUND(1)]
sonneteer n. usu. derog. a writer of sonnets.
sonny n. colloq. a familiar form of address to a young boy.
sonobuoy n. a buoy for detecting underwater sounds and transmitting them
by radio. [L sonus sound + BUOY]
sonometer n. 1 an instrument for measuring the vibration frequency of a
string etc. 2 an audiometer. [L sonus sound + -METER]
sonorous adj. 1 having a loud, full, or deep sound; resonant. 2 (of a
speech, style, etc.) imposing, grand. ЬЬsonority n. sonorously
adv. sonorousness n. [L sonorus f. sonor sound]
sonsy adj. (also sonsie) (sonsier, sonsiest) Sc. 1 plump, buxom. 2
of a cheerful disposition. 3 bringing good fortune. [ult. f.
Ir. & Gael. sonas good fortune f. sona fortunate]
sook n. Austral. & NZ sl. 1 derog. a timid bashful person; a coward
or sissy. 2 a hand-reared calf. [E dial. suck, call-word for
a calf]
sool v.tr. Austral. & NZ sl. 1 (of a dog) attack or worry (an
animal). 2 (often foll. by on) urge or goad. ЬЬsooler n.
[var. of 17th-c. (now dial.) sowl seize roughly, of unkn.
orig.]
soon adv. 1 after no long interval of time (shall soon know the
result). 2 relatively early (must you go so soon?). 3 (prec.
by how) early (with relative rather than distinctive sense) (how
soon will it be ready?). 4 readily or willingly (in expressing
choice or preference: which would you sooner do?; would as soon
stay behind). Ьas (or so) soon as (implying a causal or
temporal connection) at the moment that; not later than; as
early as (came as soon as I heard about it; disappears as soon
as it's time to pay). no sooner ... than at the very moment
that (we no sooner arrived than the rain stopped). sooner or
later at some future time; eventually. ЬЬsoonish adv. [OE sona
f. WG]
soot n. & v. --n. a black carbonaceous substance rising in fine
flakes in the smoke of wood, coal, oil, etc., and deposited on
the sides of a chimney etc. --v.tr. cover with soot. [OE sot
f. Gmc]
sooth n. archaic truth, fact. Ьin sooth really, truly. [OE soth
(orig. adj., = true) f. Gmc]
soothe v.tr. 1 calm (a person or feelings). 2 soften or mitigate
(pain). 3 archaic flatter or humour. ЬЬsoother n. soothing
adj. soothingly adv. [OE sothian verify f. soth true: see
SOOTH]
soothsayer
n. a diviner or seer. [ME, = one who says the truth: see
SOOTH]
sooty adj. (sootier, sootiest) 1 covered with or full of soot. 2
(esp. of an animal or bird) black or brownish-black. Ьsooty
albatross an albatross, Diomedia chrysostoma, with grey-brown
plumage. ЬЬsootily adv. sootiness n.
sop n. & v. --n. 1 a piece of bread etc. dipped in gravy etc. 2 a
thing given or done to pacify or bribe. --v. (sopped, sopping)
1 intr. be drenched (came home sopping; sopping wet clothes). 2
tr. (foll. by up) absorb (liquid) in a towel etc. 3 tr. wet
thoroughly; soak. [OE sopp, corresp. to MLG soppe, OHG sopfa
bread and milk, prob. f. a weak grade of the base of OE supan:
see SUP(1)]
sophism n. a false argument, esp. one intended to deceive. [ME f. OF
sophime f. L f. Gk sophisma clever device f. sophizomai become
wise f. sophos wise]
sophist n. 1 one who reasons with clever but fallacious arguments. 2
Gk Antiq. a paid teacher of philosophy and rhetoric, esp. one
associated with moral scepticism and specious reasoning.
ЬЬsophistic adj. sophistical adj. sophistically adv. [L
sophistes f. Gk sophistes f. sophizomai: see SOPHISM]
sophisticate
v., adj., & n. --v. 1 tr. make (a person etc.) educated,
cultured, or refined. 2 tr. make (equipment or techniques etc.)
highly developed or complex. 3 tr. a involve (a subject) in
sophistry. b mislead (a person) by sophistry. 4 tr. deprive (a
person or thing) of its natural simplicity, make artificial by
worldly experience etc. 5 tr. tamper with (a text etc.) for
purposes of argument etc. 6 tr. adulterate (wine etc.). 7
intr. use sophistry. --adj. sophisticated. --n. a
sophisticated person. ЬЬsophistication n. [med.L sophisticare
tamper with f. sophisticus (as SOPHISM)]
sophisticated
adj. 1 (of a person) educated and refined; discriminating in
taste and judgement. 2 (of a thing, idea, etc.) highly
developed and complex. ЬЬsophisticatedly adv.
sophistry n. (pl. -ies) 1 the use of sophisms. 2 a sophism.
sophomore n. US a second-year university or high-school student.
ЬЬsophomoric adj. [earlier sophumer f. sophum, obs. var. of
SOPHISM]
Sophy n. (pl. -ies) hist. a ruler of Persia in the 16th-17th c.
[Pers. safi surname of the dynasty, f. Arab. safi-ud-din pure
of religion, title of the founder's ancestor]
soporific adj. & n. --adj. tending to produce sleep. --n. a soporific
drug or influence. ЬЬsoporiferous adj. soporifically adv. [L
sopor sleep + -FIC]
sopping adj. (also sopping wet) soaked with liquid; wet through.
[pres. part. of SOP v.]
soppy adj. (soppier, soppiest) 1 Brit. colloq. a silly or foolish
in a feeble or self-indulgent way. b mawkishly sentimental. 2
Brit. colloq. (foll. by on) foolishly infatuated with. 3
soaked with water. ЬЬsoppily adv. soppiness n. [SOP + -Y(1)]
sopranino n. (pl. -os) Mus. an instrument higher than soprano, esp. a
recorder or saxophone. [It., dimin. of SOPRANO]
soprano n. (pl. -os or soprani) 1 a the highest singing-voice. b a
female or boy singer with this voice. c a part written for it.
2 a an instrument of a high or the highest pitch in its family.
b its player. Ьsoprano-clef an obsolete clef placing middle C
on the lowest line of the staff. [It. f. sopra above f. L
supra]
sora n. (in full sora rail) a bird, Porzana carolina, frequenting the
marshes of N. and S. Carolina etc. in the autumn and used as
food. [prob. a native name]
sorb n. 1 = service tree (see SERVICE(2)). 2 (in full sorb-apple)
its fruit. [F sorbe or L sorbus service tree, sorbum
service-berry]
sorbefacient
adj. & n. Med. --adj. causing absorption. --n. a sorbefacient
drug etc. [L sorbere suck in + -FACIENT]
sorbet n. 1 a water-ice. 2 sherbet. [F f. It. sorbetto f. Turk.
serbet f. Arab. sarba to drink: cf. SHERBET]
Sorbo n. Brit. propr. (in full Sorbo rubber) a spongy rubber.
[ABSORB + -O]
sorcerer n. (fem. sorceress) a person who claims to use magic powers; a
magician or wizard. ЬЬsorcerous adj. sorcery n. (pl. -ies).
[obs. sorcer f. OF sorcier ult. f. L sors sortis lot]
sordid adj. 1 dirty or squalid. 2 ignoble, mean, or mercenary. 3
mean or niggardly. 4 dull-coloured. ЬЬsordidly adv.
sordidness n. [F sordide or L sordidus f. sordere be dirty]
sordino n. (pl. sordini) Mus. a mute for a bowed or wind instrument.
[It. f. sordo mute f. L surdus]
sore adj., n., & adv. --adj. 1 (of a part of the body) painful from
injury or disease (has a sore arm). 2 (of a person) suffering
pain. 3 (often foll. by about, at) aggrieved or vexed. 4
archaic grievous or severe (in sore need). --n. 1 a sore place
on the body. 2 a source of distress or annoyance (reopen old
sores). --adv. archaic grievously, severely. Ьsore point a
subject causing distress or annoyance. sore throat an
inflammation of the lining membrane at the back of the mouth
etc. ЬЬsoreness n. [OE sar (n. & adj.), sare (adv.), f. Gmc]
sorehead n. US a touchy or disgruntled person.
sorel n. Brit. a male fallow deer in its third year. [var. of
SORREL(2)]
sorely adv. 1 extremely, badly (am sorely tempted; sorely in need of
repair). 2 severely (am sorely vexed). [OE sarlice (as SORE,
-LY(2))]
sorghum n. any tropical cereal grass of the genus Sorghum, e.g. durra.
[mod.L f. It. sorgo, perh. f. unrecorded Rmc syricum (gramen)
Syrian (grass)]
sori pl. of SORUS.
soroptimist
n. a member of an international association of clubs for
professional and business women. [L soror sister + OPTIMIST (as
OPTIMISM)]
sorority n. (pl. -ies) US a female students' society in a university or
college. [med.L sororitas or L soror sister, after fraternity]
sorosis n. (pl. soroses) Bot. a fleshy compound fruit, e.g. a
pineapple or mulberry. [mod.L f. Gk soros heap]
sorption n. absorption or adsorption happening jointly or separately.
[back-form. f. absorption, adsorption]
sorrel(1) n. any acid-leaved herb of the genus Rumex, used in salads and
for flavouring. [ME f. OF surele, sorele f. Gmc]
sorrel(2) adj. & n. --adj. of a light reddish-brown colour. --n. 1 this
colour. 2 a sorrel animal, esp. a horse. 3 Brit. a sorel. [ME
f. OF sorel f. sor yellowish f. Frank.]
sorrow n. & v. --n. 1 mental distress caused by loss or
disappointment etc. 2 a cause of sorrow. 3 lamentation.
--v.intr. 1 feel sorrow. 2 mourn. ЬЬsorrower n. sorrowing
adj. [OE sorh, sorg]
sorrowful adj. 1 feeling or showing sorrow. 2 distressing, lamentable.
ЬЬsorrowfully adv. sorrowfulness n. [OE sorhful (as SORROW,
-FUL)]
sorry adj. (sorrier, sorriest) 1 (predic.) pained or regretful or
penitent (were sorry for what they had done; am sorry that you
have to go). 2 (predic.; foll. by for) feeling pity or sympathy
for (a person). 3 as an expression of apology. 4 wretched; in
a poor state (a sorry sight). Ьsorry for oneself dejected.
ЬЬsorrily adv. sorriness n. [OE sarig f. WG (as SORE, -Y(2))]
sort n. & v. --n. 1 a group of things etc. with common attributes;
a class or kind. 2 (foll. by of) roughly of the kind specified
(is some sort of doctor). 3 colloq. a person of a specified
character or kind (a good sort). 4 Printing a letter or piece
in a fount of type. 5 Computing the arrangement of data in a
prescribed sequence. 6 archaic a manner or way. --v.tr. (often
foll. by out, over) arrange systematically or according to type,
class, etc. Ьafter a sort after a fashion. in some sort to a
certain extent. of a sort (or of sorts) colloq. not fully
deserving the name (a holiday of sorts). out of sorts 1
slightly unwell. 2 in low spirits; irritable. sort of colloq.
as it were; to some extent (I sort of expected it). sort out 1
separate into sorts. 2 select (things of one or more sorts)
from a miscellaneous group. 3 disentangle or put into order. 4
resolve (a problem or difficulty). 5 colloq. deal with or
reprimand (a person). ЬЬsortable adj. sorter n. sorting n.
[ME f. OF sorte ult. f. L sors sortis lot, condition]
sortie n. & v. --n. 1 a sally, esp. from a besieged garrison. 2 an
operational flight by a single military aircraft. --v.intr.
(sorties, sortied, sortieing) make a sortie; sally. [F, fem.
past part. of sortir go out]
sortilege n. divination by lots. [ME f. OF f. med.L sortilegium sorcery
f. L sortilegus sorcerer (as SORT, legere choose)]
sorus n. (pl. sori) Bot. a heap or cluster, esp. of spore-cases on
the under-surface of a fern-leaf, or in a fungus or lichen.
[mod.L f. Gk soros heap]
SOS n. (pl. SOSs) 1 an international code-signal of extreme
distress, used esp. by ships at sea. 2 an urgent appeal for
help. 3 Brit. a message broadcast to an untraceable person in
an emergency. [chosen as being easily transmitted and
recognized in Morse code]
sostenuto adv., adj., & n. Mus. --adv. & adj. in a sustained or
prolonged manner. --n. (pl. -os) a passage to be played in
this way. [It., past part. of sostenere SUSTAIN]
sot n. & v. --n. a habitual drunkard. --v.intr. (sotted, sotting)
tipple. ЬЬsottish adj. [OE sott & OF sot foolish, f. med.L
sottus, of unkn. orig.]
soteriology
n. Theol. the doctrine of salvation. [Gk soteria salvation +
-LOGY]
Sothic adj. of or relating to the dog-star, esp. with ref. to the
ancient Egyptian year fixed by its heliacal rising. [Gk Sothis
f. the Egypt. name of the dog-star]
sotto voce
adv. in an undertone or aside. [It. sotto under + voce voice]
sou n. 1 hist. a former French coin of low value. 2 (usu. with
neg.) colloq. a very small amount of money (hasn't a sou). [F,
orig. pl. sous f. OF sout f. L SOLIDUS]
soubrette n. 1 a pert maidservant or similar female character in a
comedy. 2 an actress taking this part. [F f. Prov. soubreto
fem. of soubret coy f. sobrar f. L superare be above]
soubriquet
var. of SOBRIQUET.
souchong n. a fine black kind of China tea. [Chin. xiao small + zhong
sort]
souffle n. Med. a low murmur heard in the auscultation of various
organs etc. [F f. souffler blow f. L sufflare]
souffl‚ n. & adj. --n. 1 a light spongy dish usu. made with flavoured
egg yolks added to stiffly beaten whites of eggs and baked
(cheese souffl‚). 2 any of various light sweet or savoury
dishes made with beaten egg whites. --adj. 1 light and frothy
or spongy (omelette souffl‚). 2 (of ceramics) decorated with
small spots. [F past part. (as SOUFFLE)]
sough v. & n. --v.intr. make a moaning, whistling, or rushing sound
as of the wind in trees etc. --n. this sound. [OE swogan
resound]
sought past and past part. of SEEK.
souk n. (also suk, sukh, suq) a market-place in Muslim countries.
[Arab. suk]
soul n. 1 the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being, often
regarded as immortal. 2 the moral or emotional or intellectual
nature of a person or animal. 3 the personification or pattern
of something (the very soul of discretion). 4 an individual
(not a soul in sight). 5 a a person regarded with familiarity
or pity etc. (the poor soul was utterly confused). b a person
regarded as embodying moral or intellectual qualities (left that
to meaner souls). 6 a person regarded as the animating or
essential part of something (the life and soul of the party). 7
emotional or intellectual energy or intensity, esp. as revealed
in a work of art (pictures that lack soul). 8 Black American
culture or music etc. Ьsoul-destroying (of an activity etc.)
deadeningly monotonous. soul food the traditional food of
American Blacks. soul mate a person ideally suited to another.
soul music a kind of music incorporating elements of rhythm and
blues and gospel music, popularized by American Blacks. the
soul of honour a person incapable of dishonourable conduct.
soul-searching n. the examination of one's emotions and
motives. --adj. characterized by this. upon my soul an
exclamation of surprise. ЬЬ-souled adj. (in comb.). [OE sawol,
sawel, sawl, f. Gmc]
soulful adj. 1 having or expressing or evoking deep feeling. 2 colloq.
over-emotional. ЬЬsoulfully adv. soulfulness n.
soulless adj. 1 lacking sensitivity or noble qualities. 2 having no
soul. 3 undistinguished or uninteresting. ЬЬsoullessly adv.
soullessness n.
sound(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a sensation caused in the ear by the vibration
of the surrounding air or other medium. 2 a vibrations causing
this sensation. b similar vibrations whether audible or not. 3
what is or may be heard. 4 an idea or impression conveyed by
words (don't like the sound of that). 5 mere words (sound and
fury). 6 (in full musical sound) sound produced by continuous
and regular vibrations (opp. NOISE n. 3). 7 any of a series
of articulate utterances (vowel and consonant sounds). 8 music,
speech, etc., accompanying a film or other visual presentation.
9 (often attrib.) broadcasting by radio as distinct from
television. --v. 1 intr. & tr. emit or cause to emit sound. 2
tr. utter or pronounce (sound a note of alarm). 3 intr. convey
an impression when heard (you sound worried). 4 tr. give an
audible signal for (an alarm etc.). 5 tr. test (the lungs etc.)
by noting the sound produced. 6 tr. cause to resound; make
known (sound their praises). Ьsound barrier the high resistance
of air to objects moving at speeds near that of sound. sound
effect a sound other than speech or music made artificially for
use in a play, film, etc. sound engineer an engineer dealing
with acoustics etc. sound-hole an aperture in the belly of some
stringed instruments. sound off talk loudly or express one's
opinions forcefully. sound-post a small prop between the belly
and back of some stringed instruments. sound shift see SHIFT n.
6. sound spectrograph an instrument for analysing sound into
its frequency components. sound wave a wave of compression and
rarefaction, by which sound is propagated in an elastic medium,
e.g. air. ЬЬsoundless adj. soundlessly adv. soundlessness n.
[ME f. AF soun, OF son (n.), AF suner, OF soner (v.) f. L sonus]
sound(2) adj. & adv. --adj. 1 healthy; not diseased or injured. 2 (of
an opinion or policy etc.) correct, orthodox, well-founded,
judicious. 3 financially secure (a sound investment). 4
undisturbed (a sound sleeper). 5 severe, hard (a sound blow).
--adv. soundly (sound asleep). ЬЬsoundly adv. soundness n.
[ME sund, isund f. OE gesund f. WG]
sound(3) v. & n. --v.tr. & intr. 1 tr. test the depth or quality of the
bottom of (the sea or a river etc.). 2 tr. (often foll. by out)
inquire (esp. cautiously or discreetly) into the opinions or
feelings of (a person). 3 tr. find the depth of water in (a
ship's hold). 4 tr. get records of temperature, humidity,
pressure, etc. from (the upper atmosphere). 5 tr. examine (a
person's bladder etc.) with a probe. 6 intr. (of a whale or
fish) dive to the bottom. --n. a surgeon's probe. ЬЬsounder n.
[ME f. OF sonder ult. f. L SUB- + unda wave]
sound(4) n. 1 a a narrow passage of water connecting two seas or a sea
with a lake etc. b an arm of the sea. 2 a fish's swim-bladder.
[OE sund, = ON sund swimming, strait, f. Gmc (as SWIM)]
soundboard
n. a thin sheet of wood over which the strings of a piano etc.
pass to increase the sound produced.
soundbox n. the hollow chamber providing resonance and forming the body
of a stringed musical instrument.
sounding(1)
n. 1 a the action or process of measuring the depth of water,
now usu. by means of echo. b an instance of this (took a
sounding). 2 (in pl.) a a region close to the shore of the
right depth for sounding. b Naut. measurements taken by
sounding. c cautious investigation (made soundings as to his
suitability). 3 a the determination of any physical property at
a depth in the sea or at a height in the atmosphere. b an
instance of this. Ьsounding-balloon a balloon used to obtain
information about the upper atmosphere. sounding-line a line
used in sounding the depth of water. sounding-rod a rod used in
finding the depth of water in a ship's hold (see SOUND(3)).
sounding(2)
adj. 1 giving forth (esp. loud or resonant) sound (sounding
brass). 2 emptily boastful, resonant, or imposing (sounding
promises).
sounding-board
n. 1 a canopy over a pulpit etc. to direct sound towards the
congregation. 2 = SOUNDBOARD. 3 a a means of causing opinions
etc. to be more widely known (used his students as a
sounding-board). b a person etc. used as a trial audience.
soundproof
adj. & v. --adj. impervious to sound. --v.tr. make soundproof.
soundtrack
n. 1 the recorded sound element of a film. 2 this recorded on
the edge of a film in optical or magnetic form.
soup n. & v. --n. 1 a usu. savoury liquid dish made by boiling
meat, fish, or vegetables etc. in stock or water. 2 US sl.
nitroglycerine or gelignite, esp. for safe-breaking. 3 sl. the
chemicals in which film is developed. 4 colloq. fog; thick
cloud. --v.tr. (usu. foll. by up) colloq. 1 increase the power
and efficiency of (an engine). 2 increase the power or impact
of (writing, music, etc.). Ьin the soup colloq. in
difficulties. soup and fish colloq. evening dress.
soup-kitchen a place dispensing soup etc. to the poor.
soup-plate a deep wide-rimmed plate for serving soup.
soup-spoon a large round-bowled spoon for drinking soup. [F
soupe sop, broth, f. LL suppa f. Gmc: cf. SOP, SUP(1)]
soup‡on n. a very small quantity; a dash. [F f. OF sou(s)pe‡on f.
med.L suspectio -onis: see SUSPICION]
soupy adj. (soupier, soupiest) 1 of or resembling soup. 2 colloq.
sentimental; mawkish. ЬЬsoupily adv. soupiness n.
sour adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 having an acid taste like lemon or
vinegar, esp. because of unripeness (sour apples). 2 a (of
food, esp. milk or bread) bad because of fermentation. b
smelling or tasting rancid or unpleasant. 3 (of a person,
temper, etc.) harsh; morose; bitter. 4 (of a thing) unpleasant;
distasteful. 5 (of the soil) deficient in lime and usually
dank. --n. 1 US a drink with lemon- or lime-juice (whisky
sour). 2 an acid solution used in bleaching etc. --v.tr. &
intr. make or become sour (soured the cream; soured by
misfortune). Ьgo (or turn) sour 1 (of food etc.) become sour.
2 turn out badly (the job went sour on him). 3 lose one's
keenness. sour cream cream deliberately fermented by adding
bacteria. sour grapes resentful disparagement of something one
cannot personally acquire. sour mash US a brewing- or
distilling-mash made acid to promote fermentation. ЬЬsourish
adj. sourly adv. sourness n. [OE sur f. Gmc]
source n. & v. --n. 1 a spring or fountain-head from which a stream
issues (the sources of the Nile). 2 a place, person, or thing
from which something originates (the source of all our
troubles). 3 a person or document etc. providing evidence
(reliable sources of information; historical source material).
4 a a body emitting radiation etc. b Physics a place from which
a fluid or current flows. c Electronics a part of a transistor
from which carriers flow into the interelectrode channel.
--v.tr. obtain (esp. components) from a specified source. Ьat
source at the point of origin or issue. source-criticism the
evaluation of different, esp. successive, literary or historical
sources. [ME f. OF sors, sourse, past part. of sourdre rise f.
L surgere]
sourcebook
n. a collection of documentary sources for the study of a
subject.
sourdough n. US 1 fermenting dough, esp. that left over from a previous
baking, used as leaven. 2 an old-timer in Alaska etc. [dial.,
= leaven, in allusion to piece of sour dough for raising bread
baked in winter]
sourpuss n. colloq. a sour-tempered person. [SOUR + PUSS = face]
soursop n. 1 a W. Indian evergreen tree, Annona muricata. 2 the large
succulent fruit of this tree.
sous- prefix (in words adopted from French) subordinate, under
(sous-chef). [F]
sousaphone
n. a large brass bass wind instrument encircling the player's
body. ЬЬsousaphonist n. [J. P. Sousa, Amer. bandmaster d.
1932, after saxophone]
souse v. & n. --v. 1 tr. put (gherkins, fish, etc.) in pickle. 2
tr. & intr. plunge into liquid. 3 tr. (as soused adj.) colloq.
drunk. 4 tr. (usu. foll. by in) soak (a thing) in liquid. 5
tr. (usu. foll. by over) throw (liquid) over a thing. --n. 1 a
pickle made with salt. b US food, esp. a pig's head etc., in
pickle. 2 a dip, plunge, or drenching in water. 3 colloq. a a
drinking-bout. b a drunkard. [ME f. OF sous, souz pickle f. OS
sultia, OHG sulza brine f. Gmc: cf. SALT]
soutache n. a narrow flat ornamental braid used to trim garments. [F f.
Magyar sujt s]
soutane n. RC Ch. a cassock worn by a priest. [F f. It. sottana f.
sotto under f. L subtus]
souteneur n. a pimp. [F, = protector]
souter n. Sc. & N.Engl. a shoemaker; a cobbler. [OE sutere f. L
sutor f. suere sut- sew]
souterrain
n. esp. Archaeol. an underground chamber or passage. [F f.
sous under + terre earth]
south n., adj., adv., & v. --n. 1 the point of the horizon 90ш
clockwise from east. 2 the compass point corresponding to this.
3 the direction in which this lies. 4 (usu. the South) a the
part of the world or a country or a town lying to the south. b
the Southern States of the US. 5 Bridge a player occupying the
position designated 'south'. --adj. 1 towards, at, near, or
facing the south (a south wall; south country). 2 coming from
the south (south wind). --adv. 1 towards, at, or near the
south (they travelled south). 2 (foll. by of) further south
than. --v.intr. 1 move towards the south. 2 (of a celestial
body) cross the meridian. ЬSouth African adj. of or relating
to the republic of South Africa. --n. 1 a native or national
of South Africa. 2 a person of South African descent. South
American adj. of or relating to South America. --n. a native
or citizen of South America. south by east (or west) between
south and south-south-east (or south-south-west). south-east n.
1 the point of the horizon midway between south and east. 2 the
compass point corresponding to this. 3 the direction in which
this lies. --adj. of, towards, or coming from the south-east.
--adv. towards, at, or near the south-east. South-East the part
of a country or town lying to the south-east. south-easterly
adj. & adv. = south-east. south-eastern lying on the south-east
side. south pole see POLE(2). South Sea the southern Pacific
Ocean. South Sea Bubble hist. a scheme for trading in the
southern hemisphere to repay the British national debt, which
started and collapsed in 1720. south-south-east the point or
direction midway between south and south-east. south-south-west
the point or direction midway between south and south-west.
south-west n. 1 the point of the horizon midway between south
and west. 2 the compass point corresponding to this. 3 the
direction in which this lies. --adj. of, towards, or coming
from the south-west. --adv. towards, at, or near the
south-west. South-West the part of a country or town lying to
the south-west. south-westerly adj. & adv. = south-west.
south-western lying on the south-west side. south wind a wind
blowing from the south. to the south (often foll. by of) in a
southerly direction. [OE suth]
southbound
adj. travelling or leading southwards.
Southdown n. 1 a sheep of a breed raised esp. for mutton, orig. on the
South Downs of Hampshire and Sussex. 2 this breed.
southeaster
n. a south-east wind.
souther n. a south wind.
southerly adj., adv., & n. --adj. & adv. 1 in a southern position or
direction. 2 (of a wind) blowing from the south. --n. (pl.
-ies) a southerly wind.
southern adj. esp. Geog. 1 of or in the south; inhabiting the south. 2
lying or directed towards the south (at the southern end).
ЬSouthern Cross a southern constellation in the shape of a
cross. Southern hemisphere the half of the earth below the
equator. southern lights the aurora australis. Southern States
the States in the south, esp. the south-east, of the US.
ЬЬsouthernmost adj. [OE sutherne (as SOUTH, -ERN)]
southerner
n. a native or inhabitant of the south.
southernwood
n. a bushy kind of wormwood, Artemisia abrotanum.
southing n. 1 a southern movement. 2 Naut. the distance travelled or
measured southward. 3 Astron. the angular distance of a star
etc. south of the celestial equator.
southpaw n. & adj. colloq. --n. a left-handed person, esp. in boxing.
--adj. left-handed.
southward adj., adv., & n. --adj. & adv. (also southwards) towards the
south. --n. a southward direction or region.
southwester
n. a south-west wind.
souvenir n. & v. --n. (often foll. by of) a memento of an occasion,
place, etc. --v.tr. sl. take as a 'souvenir'; pilfer, steal.
[F f. souvenir remember f. L subvenire occur to the mind (as
SUB-, venire come)]
souvlaki n. (pl. souvlakia) a Greek dish of pieces of meat grilled on a
skewer. [mod. Gk]
sou'wester
n. 1 = SOUTHWESTER. 2 a waterproof hat with a broad flap
covering the neck.
sov. abbr. Brit. sovereign.
sovereign n. & adj. --n. 1 a supreme ruler, esp. a monarch. 2 Brit.
hist. a gold coin nominally worth њ1. --adj. 1 a supreme
(sovereign power). b unmitigated (sovereign contempt). 2
excellent; effective (a sovereign remedy). 3 possessing
sovereign power (a sovereign State). 4 royal (our sovereign
lord). Ьthe sovereign good the greatest good, esp. for a State,
its people, etc. sovereign pontiff see PONTIFF. ЬЬsovereignly
adv. sovereignty n. (pl. -ies). [ME f. OF so(u)verain f. L:
-g- by assoc. with reign]
soviet n. & adj. --n. 1 an elected local, district, or national
council in the USSR. 2 (Soviet) a citizen of the USSR. 3 hist.
a revolutionary council of workers, peasants, etc. before 1917.
--adj. (usu. Soviet) of or concerning the Soviet Union.
ЬЬSovietize v.tr. (also -ise). Sovietization n. [Russ. sovet
council]
sovietologist
n. a person who studies the Soviet Union.
sow(1) v.tr. (past sowed; past part. sown or sowed) 1 (also absol.) a
scatter (seed) on or in the earth. b (often foll. by with)
plant (a field etc.) with seed. 2 initiate; arouse (sowed doubt
in her mind). 3 (foll. by with) cover thickly with. Ьsow the
seed (or seeds) of first give rise to; implant (an idea etc.).
ЬЬsower n. sowing n. [OE sawan f. Gmc]
sow(2) n. 1 a a female adult pig, esp. after farrowing. b a female
guinea-pig. c the female of some other species. 2 a the main
trough through which molten iron runs into side-channels to form
pigs. b a large block of iron so formed. 3 (in full sow bug)
esp. US a woodlouse. [OE sugu]
sowback n. a low ridge of sand etc.
sowbread n. a tuberous plant, Cyclamen hederifolium, with solitary
nodding flowers.
sown past part. of SOW(1).
sowthistle
n. any plant of the genus Sonchus with thistle-like leaves and
milky juice.
sox informal or Commerce pl. of SOCK(1).
soy n. (also soya) 1 (also soy sauce) a sauce made in Japan and
China from pickled soya beans. 2 (in full soy bean) = soya
bean. [Jap. sho-yu f. Chin. shi-you f. shi salted beans +
you oil]
soya n. (in full soya bean) 1 a a leguminous plant, Glycine soja,
orig. of SE Asia, cultivated for the edible oil and flour it
yields, and used as a replacement for animal protein in certain
foods. b the seed of this. 2 (also soya sauce) = SOY 1. [Du.
soja f. Malay soi (as SOY)]
sozzled adj. colloq. very drunk. [past part. of dial. sozzle mix
sloppily (prob. imit.)]
spa n. 1 a curative mineral spring. 2 a place or resort with this.
[Spa in Belgium]
space n. & v. --n. 1 a a continuous unlimited area or expanse which
may or may not contain objects etc. b an interval between one,
two, or three-dimensional points or objects (a space of 10
metres). c an empty area; room (clear a space in the corner;
occupies too much space). 2 a large unoccupied region (the wide
open spaces). 3 = outer space. 4 an interval of time (in the
space of an hour). 5 the amount of paper used in writing etc.
(hadn't the space to discuss it). 6 a a blank between printed,
typed, or written words, etc. b a piece of metal providing
this. 7 Mus. each of the blanks between the lines of a staff.
--v.tr. 1 set or arrange at intervals. 2 put spaces between
(esp. words, letters, lines, etc. in printing, typing, or
writing). 3 (as spaced adj.) (often foll. by out) sl. in a
state of euphoria, esp. from taking drugs. Ьspace age the era
when space travel has become possible. space-bar a long key in
a typewriter for making a space between words etc. space flight
1 a journey through space. 2 = space travel. space out put
more or wider spaces or intervals between. space probe = PROBE
n. 4. space rocket a rocket used to launch a spacecraft.
space-saving occupying little space. space shuttle a rocket for
repeated use esp. between the earth and a space station. space
station an artificial satellite used as a base for operations in
space. space-time (or space-time continuum) the fusion of the
concepts of space and time, esp. as a four-dimensional
continuum. space travel travel through outer space. space
traveller a traveller in outer space; an astronaut. space
vehicle = SPACECRAFT. space walk any physical activity by an
astronaut in space outside a spacecraft. ЬЬspacer n. spacing
n. (esp. in sense 2 of v.). [ME f. OF espace f. L spatium]
spacecraft
n. a vehicle used for travelling in space.
spaceman n. (pl. -men; fem. spacewoman, pl. -women) = space
traveller.
spaceship n. a spacecraft, esp. one controlled by its crew.
spacesuit n. a garment designed to allow an astronaut to survive in
space.
spacial var. of SPATIAL.
spacious adj. having ample space; covering a large area; roomy.
ЬЬspaciously adv. spaciousness n. [ME f. OF spacios or L
spatiosus (as SPACE)]
spade(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a tool used for digging or cutting the ground
etc., with a sharp-edged metal blade and a long handle. 2 a
tool of a similar shape for various purposes, e.g. for removing
the blubber from a whale. 3 anything resembling a spade.
--v.tr. dig over (ground) with a spade. Ьcall a spade a spade
speak plainly or bluntly. spade beard an oblong-shaped beard.
spade foot a square spadelike enlargement at the end of a
chair-leg. ЬЬspadeful n. (pl. -fuls). [OE spadu, spada]
spade(2) n. 1 a a playing-card of a suit denoted by black inverted
heart-shaped figures with small stalks. b (in pl.) this suit.
2 sl. offens. a Black. Ьin spades sl. to a high degree, with
great force. spade guinea hist. a guinea of George III's reign
with a spade-shaped shield on the reverse. [It. spade pl. of
spada sword f. L spatha f. Gk spathe, rel. to SPADE(1): assoc.
with the shape of a pointed spade]
spadework n. hard or routine preparatory work.
spadille n. 1 the ace of spades in ombre and quadrille. 2 the highest
trump, esp. the ace of spades. [F f. Sp. espadilla dimin. of
espada sword (as SPADE(2))]
spadix n. (pl. spadices) Bot. a spike of flowers closely arranged
round a fleshy axis and usu. enclosed in a spathe.
ЬЬspadiceous adj. [L f. Gk, = palm-branch]
spae v.intr. & tr. Sc. foretell; prophesy. [ME f. ON sp ]
spaewife n. Sc. a female fortune-teller or witch.
spaghetti n. pasta made in solid strings, between macaroni and vermicelli
in thickness. Ьspaghetti Bolognese spaghetti served with a
sauce of minced beef, tomato, onion, etc. spaghetti junction a
multi-level road junction, esp. on a motorway. spaghetti
western a western film made cheaply in Italy. [It., pl. of
dimin. of spago string: Bolognese It., = of Bologna]
spahi n. hist. 1 a member of the Turkish irregular cavalry. 2 a
member of the Algerian cavalry in French service. [Turk.
sipahi formed as SEPOY]
spake archaic past of SPEAK.
spall n. & v. --n. a splinter or chip, esp. of rock. --v.intr. & tr.
break up or cause (ore) to break up in preparation for sorting.
[ME (also spale): orig. unkn.]
spallation
n. Physics the breakup of a bombarded nucleus into several
parts.
spalpeen n. Ir. 1 a rascal; a villain. 2 a youngster. [Ir. spailpЎn,
of unkn. orig.]
Spam n. propr. a tinned meat product made mainly from ham. [spiced
h am]
span(1) n. & v. --n. 1 the full extent from end to end in space or
time (the span of a bridge; the whole span of history). 2 each
arch or part of a bridge between piers or supports. 3 the
maximum lateral extent of an aeroplane, its wing, a bird's wing,
etc. 4 a the maximum distance between the tips of the thumb and
little finger. b this as a measurement, equal to 9 inches. 5 a
short distance or time (our life is but a span). --v.
(spanned, spanning) 1 tr. a (of a bridge, arch, etc.) stretch
from side to side of; extend across (the bridge spanned the
river). b (of a builder etc.) bridge (a river etc.). 2 tr.
extend across (space or a period of time etc.). 3 tr. measure
or cover the extent of (a thing) with one's hand with the
fingers stretched (spanned a tenth on the piano). 4 intr. US
move in distinct stretches like the span-worm. Ьspan roof a
roof with two inclined sides (opp. PENTHOUSE 2, lean-to (see
LEAN(1))). span-worm US the caterpillar of the geometer moth.
[OE span(n) or OF espan]
span(2) n. 1 Naut. a rope with both ends fastened to take purchase in a
loop. 2 US a matched pair of horses, mules, etc. 3 S.Afr. a
team of two or more pairs of oxen. [LG & Du. span f. spannen
unite]
span(3) see SPICK AND SPAN.
span(4) archaic past of SPIN.
spandrel n. Archit. 1 the almost triangular space between one side of
the outer curve of an arch, a wall, and the ceiling or
framework. 2 the space between the shoulders of adjoining
arches and the ceiling or moulding above. Ьspandrel wall a wall
built on the curve of an arch, filling in the spandrel. [perh.
f. AF spaund(e)re, or f. espaundre EXPAND]
spang adv. US colloq. exactly; completely (spang in the middle).
[20th c.: orig. unkn.]
spangle n. & v. --n. 1 a small thin piece of glittering material esp.
used in quantity to ornament a dress etc.; a sequin. 2 a small
sparkling object. 3 (in full spangle gall) a spongy excrescence
on oak-leaves. --v.tr. (esp. as spangled adj.) cover with or as
with spangles (star-spangled; spangled costume). ЬЬspangly adj.
[ME f. spang f. MDu. spange, OHG spanga, ON sp”ng brooch f.
Gmc]
Spaniard n. 1 a a native or national of Spain in southern Europe. b a
person of Spanish descent. 2 NZ a spear grass. [ME f. OF
Espaignart f. Espaigne Spain]
spaniel n. 1 a a dog of any of various breeds with a long silky coat
and drooping ears. b any of these breeds. 2 an obsequious or
fawning person. [ME f. OF espaigneul Spanish (dog) f. Rmc
Hispaniolus (unrecorded) f. Hispania Spain]
Spanish adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to Spain or its people or
language. --n. 1 the language of Spain and Spanish America. 2
(prec. by the; treated as pl.) the people of Spain. ЬSpanish
America those parts of America orig. settled by Spaniards,
including Central and South America and part of the West Indies.
Spanish Armada hist. the Spanish war fleet sent against England
in 1588. Spanish bayonet a yucca, Yucca aloifolia, with stiff
sharp-pointed leaves. Spanish chestnut = CHESTNUT n. 1b.
Spanish fly a bright green beetle, Lytta vesicatoria, formerly
dried and used for raising blisters, as a supposed aphrodisiac,
etc. Spanish goat a goat, Capra pyrenaica, inhabiting the
Pyrenees. Spanish guitar the standard six-stringed acoustic
guitar, used esp. for classical and folk music. Spanish
mackerel any of various large mackerels, esp. Scomber colias or
S. maculatus. Spanish Main hist. the NE coast of South America
between the Orinoco river and Panama, and adjoining parts of the
Caribbean Sea. Spanish omelette an omelette containing chopped
vegetables and often not folded. Spanish onion a large
mild-flavoured onion. Spanish windlass the use of a stick as a
lever for tightening ropes etc. [ME f. Spain, with shortening
of the first element]
spank v. & n. --v. 1 tr. slap esp. on the buttocks with the open
hand, a slipper, etc. 2 intr. (of a horse etc.) move briskly,
esp. between a trot and a gallop. --n. a slap esp. with the
open hand on the buttocks. [perh. imit.]
spanker n. 1 a person or thing that spanks. 2 Naut. a fore-and-aft
sail set on the after side of the mizen-mast. 3 a fast horse.
4 colloq. a person or thing of notable size or quality.
spanking adj., adv., & n. --adj. 1 (esp. of a horse) moving quickly;
lively; brisk (at a spanking trot). 2 colloq. striking;
excellent. --adv. colloq. very, exceedingly (spanking clean).
--n. the act or an instance of slapping, esp. on the buttocks as
a punishment for children.
spanner n. 1 Brit. an instrument for turning or gripping a nut on a
screw etc. (cf. WRENCH). 2 the cross-brace of a bridge etc.
Ьa spanner in the works Brit. colloq. a drawback or
impediment. [G spannen draw tight: see SPAN(2)]
spar(1) n. 1 a stout pole esp. used for the mast, yard, etc. of a ship.
2 the main longitudinal beam of an aeroplane wing. Ьspar-buoy a
buoy made of a spar with one end moored so that the other stands
up. spar-deck the light upper deck of a vessel. [ME sparre,
sperre f. OF esparre or ON sperra or direct f. Gmc: cf. MDu.,
MLG sparre, OS, OHG sparro]
spar(2) v. & n. --v.intr. (sparred, sparring) 1 (often foll. by at)
make the motions of boxing without landing heavy blows. 2
engage in argument (they are always sparring). 3 (of a
gamecock) fight with the feet or spurs. --n. 1 a a sparring
motion. b a boxing-match. 2 a cock-fight. 3 an argument or
dispute. Ьsparring partner 1 a boxer employed to engage in
sparring with another as training. 2 a person with whom one
enjoys arguing. [ME f. OE sperran, spyrran, of unkn. orig.: cf.
ON sperrask kick out]
spar(3) n. any crystalline, easily cleavable and non-lustrous mineral,
e.g. calcite or fluorspar. ЬЬsparry adj. [MLG, rel. to OE
sp‘ren of plaster, sp‘rstan gypsum]
sparable n. a headless nail used for the soles and heels of shoes.
[contr. of sparrow-bill, also used in this sense]
sparaxis n. any S. African iridaceous plant of the genus Sparaxis, with
showy flowers and jagged spathes. [mod.L f. Gk, = laceration,
f. sparasso tear]
spare adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 a not required for ordinary use; extra
(have no spare cash; spare time). b reserved for emergency or
occasional use (slept in the spare room). 2 lean; thin. 3
scanty; frugal; not copious (a spare diet; a spare prose style).
4 colloq. not wanted or used by others (a spare seat in the
front row). --n. 1 Brit. a spare part; a duplicate. 2 Bowling
the knocking-down of all the pins with the first two balls.
--v. 1 tr. afford to give or do without; dispense with (cannot
spare him just now; can spare you a couple). 2 tr. a abstain
from killing, hurting, wounding, etc. (spared his feelings;
spared her life). b abstain from inflicting or causing; relieve
from (spare me this talk; spare my blushes). 3 tr. be frugal or
grudging of (no expense spared). 4 intr. archaic be frugal.
Ьgo spare colloq. 1 Brit. become extremely angry or distraught.
2 be unwanted by others. not spare oneself exert one's utmost
efforts. spare part a duplicate part to replace a lost or
damaged part of a machine etc. spare tyre 1 an extra tyre
carried in a motor vehicle for emergencies. 2 Brit. colloq. a
roll of fat round the waist. to spare left over; additional (an
hour to spare). ЬЬsparely adv. spareness n. sparer n. [OE
sp‘r, sparian f. Gmc]
spare-rib n. closely-trimmed ribs of esp. pork. [prob. f. MLG ribbesper,
by transposition and assoc. with SPARE]
sparge v.tr. moisten by sprinkling, esp. in brewing. ЬЬsparger n.
[app. f. L spargere sprinkle]
sparing adj. 1 inclined to save; economical. 2 restrained; limited.
ЬЬsparingly adv. sparingness n.
spark(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a fiery particle thrown off from a fire, or
alight in ashes, or produced by a flint, match, etc. 2 (often
foll. by of) a particle of a quality etc. (not a spark of life;
a spark of interest). 3 Electr. a a light produced by a sudden
disruptive discharge through the air etc. b such a discharge
serving to ignite the explosive mixture in an
internal-combustion engine. 4 a a flash of wit etc. b anything
causing interest, excitement, etc. c (also bright spark) a
witty or lively person. 5 a small bright object or point, e.g.
in a gem. 6 (Sparks) a nickname for a radio operator or an
electrician. --v. 1 intr. emit sparks of fire or electricity.
2 tr. (often foll. by off) stir into activity; initiate (a
process) suddenly. 3 intr. Electr. produce sparks at the point
where a circuit is interrupted. Ьspark chamber an apparatus
designed to show ionizing particles. spark-gap the space
between electric terminals where sparks occur. sparking-plug
Brit. = spark-plug. spark-plug a device for firing the
explosive mixture in an internal-combustion engine. ЬЬsparkless
adj. sparky adj. [ME f. OE sp‘rca, spearca]
spark(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a lively young fellow. 2 a gallant, a beau.
--v.intr. play the gallant. ЬЬsparkish adj. [prob. a fig. use
of SPARK(1)]
sparkle v. & n. --v.intr. 1 a emit or seem to emit sparks; glitter;
glisten (her eyes sparkled). b be witty; scintillate (sparkling
repartee). 2 (of wine etc.) effervesce (cf. STILL(1) adj. 4).
--n. a gleam, spark. ЬЬsparkly adj. [ME f. SPARK(1) + -LE(4)]
sparkler n. 1 a person or thing that sparkles. 2 a hand-held sparkling
firework. 3 colloq. a diamond or other gem.
sparling n. a European smelt, Osmerus eperlanus. [ME f. OF esperlinge,
of Gmc orig.]
sparoid n. & adj. --n. any marine fish of the family Sparidae, e.g. a
porgy. --adj. of or concerning the Sparidae. [mod.L Sparoides
f. L sparus f. Gk sparos sea-bream]
sparrow n. 1 any small brownish-grey bird of the genus Passer, esp. the
house sparrow and tree sparrow. 2 any of various birds of
similar appearance such as the hedge sparrow. Ьsparrow-grass
dial. or colloq. asparagus. [OE spearwa f. Gmc]
sparrowhawk
n. a small hawk, Accipiter nisus, preying on small birds.
sparse adj. thinly dispersed or scattered; not dense (sparse
population; sparse greying hair). ЬЬsparsely adv. sparseness
n. sparsity n. [L sparsus past part. of spargere scatter]
Spartan adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or relating to Sparta in ancient Greece.
2 a possessing the qualities of courage, endurance, stern
frugality, etc., associated with Sparta. b (of a regime,
conditions, etc.) lacking comfort; austere. --n. a citizen of
Sparta. [ME f. L Spartanus f. Sparta f. Gk Sparta, -te]
spartina n. any grass of the genus Spartina, with rhizomatous roots and
growing in wet or marshy ground. [Gk spartine rope]
spasm n. 1 a sudden involuntary muscular contraction. 2 a sudden
convulsive movement or emotion etc. (a spasm of coughing). 3
(usu. foll. by of) colloq. a brief spell of an activity. [ME f.
OF spasme or L spasmus f. Gk spasmos, spasma f. spao pull]
spasmodic adj. 1 of, caused by, or subject to, a spasm or spasms (a
spasmodic jerk; spasmodic asthma). 2 occurring or done by fits
and starts (spasmodic efforts). ЬЬspasmodically adv. [mod.L
spasmodicus f. Gk spasmodes (as SPASM)]
spastic adj. & n. --adj. 1 Med. suffering from cerebral palsy with
spasm of the muscles. 2 offens. weak, feeble, incompetent. 3
spasmodic. --n. Med. a spastic person. ЬЬspastically adv.
spasticity n. [L spasticus f. Gk spastikos pulling f. spao
pull]
spat(1) past and past part. of SPIT.
spat(2) n. 1 (usu. in pl.) hist. a short cloth gaiter protecting the
shoe from mud etc. 2 a cover for an aircraft wheel. [abbr. of
SPATTERDASH]
spat(3) n. & v. US colloq. --n. 1 a petty quarrel. 2 a slight
amount. --v.intr. (spatted, spatting) quarrel pettily. [prob.
imit.]
spat(4) n. & v. --n. the spawn of shellfish, esp. the oyster. --v.
(spatted, spatting) 1 intr. (of an oyster) spawn. 2 tr. shed
(spawn). [AF, of unkn. orig.]
spatchcock
n. & v. --n. a chicken or esp. game bird split open and
grilled. --v.tr. 1 treat (poultry) in this way. 2 colloq.
insert or interpolate (a phrase, sentence, story, etc.) esp.
incongruously. [orig. in Ir. use, expl. by Grose (1785) as f.
dispatch-cock, but cf. SPITCHCOCK]
spate n. 1 a river-flood (the river is in spate). 2 a large or
excessive amount (a spate of enquiries). [ME, Sc. & N.Engl.:
orig. unkn.]
spathe n. Bot. a large bract or pair of bracts enveloping a spadix or
flower-cluster. ЬЬspathaceous adj. [L f. Gk spathe broad blade
etc.]
spathic adj. (of a mineral) like spar (see SPAR(3)), esp. in cleavage.
Ьspathic iron ore = SIDERITE. ЬЬspathose adj. [spath spar f. G
Spath]
spatial adj. (also spacial) of or concerning space (spatial extent).
ЬЬspatiality n. spatialize v.tr. (also -ise). spatially adv.
[L spatium space]
spatio-temporal
adj. Physics & Philos. belonging to both space and time or to
space-time. ЬЬspatio-temporally adv. [formed as SPATIAL +
TEMPORAL]
spatter v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a (often foll. by with) splash (a person
etc.) (spattered him with mud). b scatter or splash (liquid,
mud, etc.) here and there. 2 intr. (of rain etc.) fall here and
there (glass spattered down). 3 tr. slander (a person's honour
etc.). --n. 1 (usu. foll. by of) a splash (a spatter of mud).
2 a quick pattering sound. [frequent. f. base as in Du., LG
spatten burst, spout]
spatterdash
n. 1 (usu. in pl.) hist. a cloth or other legging to protect
the stockings etc. from mud etc. 2 US = ROUGHCAST.
spatula n. 1 a broad-bladed knife-like implement used for spreading,
stirring, mixing (paints), etc. 2 a doctor's instrument for
pressing the tongue down or to one side. [L, var. of spathula,
dimin. of spatha SPATHE]
spatulate adj. 1 spatula-shaped. 2 (esp. of a leaf) having a broad
rounded end. [SPATULA]
spavin n. Vet. a disease of a horse's hock with a hard bony tumour or
excrescence. Ьblood (or bog) spavin a distension of the joint
by effusion of lymph or fluid. bone spavin a deposit of bony
substance uniting the bones. ЬЬspavined adj. [ME f. OF
espavin, var. of esparvain f. Gmc]
spawn v. & n. --v. 1 a tr. (also absol.) (of a fish, frog, mollusc,
or crustacean) produce (eggs). b intr. be produced as eggs or
young. 2 tr. derog. (of people) produce (offspring). 3 tr.
produce or generate, esp. in large numbers. --n. 1 the eggs of
fish, frogs, etc. 2 derog. human or other offspring. 3 a white
fibrous matter from which fungi are produced; mycelium.
ЬЬspawner n. [ME f. AF espaundre shed roe, OF espandre EXPAND]
spay v.tr. sterilize (a female animal) by removing the ovaries. [ME
f. AF espeier, OF espeer cut with a sword f. espee sword f. L
spatha: see SPATHE]
SPCK abbr. Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge.
speak v. (past spoke; past part. spoken) 1 intr. make articulate
verbal utterances in an ordinary (not singing) voice. 2 tr. a
utter (words). b make known or communicate (one's opinion, the
truth, etc.) in this way (never speaks sense). 3 intr. a
(foll. by to, with) hold a conversation (spoke to him for an
hour; spoke with them about their work). b (foll. by of)
mention in writing etc. (speaks of it in his novel). c (foll.
by for) articulate the feelings of (another person etc.) in
speech or writing (speaks for our generation). 4 intr. (foll.
by to) a address; converse with (a person etc.). b speak in
confirmation of or with reference to (spoke to the resolution;
can speak to his innocence). c colloq. reprove (spoke to them
about their lateness). 5 intr. make a speech before an audience
etc. (spoke for an hour on the topic; has a good speaking
voice). 6 tr. use or be able to use (a specified language)
(cannot speak French). 7 intr. (of a gun, a musical instrument,
etc.) make a sound. 8 intr. (usu. foll. by to) poet.
communicate feeling etc., affect, touch (the sunset spoke to
her). 9 intr. (of a hound) bark. 10 tr. hail and hold
communication with (a ship). 11 tr. archaic a (of conduct
etc.) show (a person) to be (his conduct speaks him generous).
b be evidence of (the loud laugh speaks the vacant mind). Ьnot
(or nothing) to speak of not (or nothing) worth mentioning;
practically not (or nothing). speak for itself need no
supporting evidence. speak for oneself 1 give one's own
opinions. 2 not presume to speak for others. speak one's mind
speak bluntly or frankly. speak out speak loudly or freely,
give one's opinion. speak up = speak out. speak volumes (of a
fact etc.) be very significant. speak volumes (or well etc.)
for 1 be abundant evidence of. 2 place in a favourable light.
ЬЬspeakable adj. [OE sprecan, later specan]
speakeasy n. (pl. -ies) US hist. sl. an illicit liquor shop or
drinking club during Prohibition.
speaker n. 1 a person who speaks, esp. in public. 2 a person who
speaks a specified language (esp. in comb.: a French-speaker).
3 (Speaker) the presiding officer in a legislative assembly,
esp. the House of Commons. 4 = LOUDSPEAKER. ЬЬspeakership n.
speaking n. & adj. --n. the act or an instance of uttering words etc.
--adj. 1 that speaks; capable of articulate speech. 2 (of a
portrait) lifelike; true to its subject (a speaking likeness).
3 (in comb.) speaking or capable of speaking a specified foreign
language (French-speaking). 4 with a reference or from a point
of view specified (roughly speaking; professionally speaking).
Ьon speaking terms (foll. by with) 1 slightly acquainted. 2 on
friendly terms. speaking acquaintance 1 a person one knows
slightly. 2 this degree of familiarity. speaking clock Brit.
a telephone service giving the correct time in words.
speaking-trumpet hist. an instrument for making the voice
carry. speaking-tube a tube for conveying the voice from one
room, building, etc., to another.
spear n. & v. --n. 1 a thrusting or throwing weapon with a pointed
usu. steel tip and a long shaft. 2 a similar barbed instrument
used for catching fish etc. 3 archaic a spearman. 4 a pointed
stem of asparagus etc. --v.tr. pierce or strike with or as if
with a spear (speared an olive). Ьspear gun a gun used to
propel a spear in underwater fishing. spear side the male side
of a family. [OE spere]
spearhead n. & v. --n. 1 the point of a spear. 2 an individual or group
chosen to lead a thrust or attack. --v.tr. act as the spearhead
of (an attack etc.).
spearman n. (pl. -men) archaic a person, esp. a soldier, who uses a
spear.
spearmint n. a common garden mint, Mentha spicata, used in cookery and to
flavour chewing-gum.
spearwort n. an aquatic plant, Ranunculus lingua, with thick hollow
stems, long narrow spear-shaped leaves, and yellow flowers.
spec(1) n. colloq. a commercial speculation or venture. Ьon spec in
the hope of success; as a gamble, on the off chance. [abbr. of
SPECULATION]
spec(2) n. colloq. a detailed working description; a specification.
[abbr. of SPECIFICATION]
special adj. & n. --adj. 1 a particularly good; exceptional; out of
the ordinary (bought them a special present; took special
trouble). b peculiar; specific; not general (lacks the special
qualities required; the word has a special sense). 2 for a
particular purpose (sent on a special assignment). 3 in which a
person specializes (statistics is his special field). 4
denoting education for children with particular needs, e.g. the
handicapped. --n. a special person or thing, e.g. a special
constable, train, examination, edition of a newspaper, dish on a
menu, etc. Ьspecial area Brit. a district for which special
economic provision is made in legislation. Special Branch (in
the UK) a police department dealing with political security.
special case 1 a written statement of fact presented by
litigants to a court. 2 an exceptional or unusual case.
special constable Brit. a policeman sworn in to assist in times
of emergency etc. special correspondent a journalist writing
for a newspaper on special events or a special area of interest.
special delivery a delivery of mail in advance of the regular
delivery. special drawing rights the right to purchase extra
foreign currency from the International Monetary Fund. special
edition an extra edition of a newspaper including later news
than the ordinary edition. special effects scenic illusions
created by props and camera-work. special intention see
INTENTION. special jury a jury with members of a particular
social standing (cf. common jury). special licence Brit. a
marriage licence allowing immediate marriage without banns, or
at an unusual time or place. special pleading 1 Law pleading
with reference to new facts in a case. 2 a specious or unfair
argument favouring the speaker's point of view. special verdict
Law a verdict stating the facts as proved but leaving the court
to draw conclusions from them. ЬЬspecially adv. specialness n.
[ME f. OF especial ESPECIAL or L specialis (as SPECIES)]
specialist
n. (usu. foll. by in) 1 a person who is trained in a particular
branch of a profession, esp. medicine (a specialist in
dermatology). 2 a person who specially or exclusively studies a
subject or a particular branch of a subject. ЬЬspecialism n.
specialistic adj.
speciality
n. (pl. -ies) 1 a special pursuit, product, operation, etc.,
to which a company or a person gives special attention. 2 a
special feature, characteristic, or skill. [ME f. OF
especialit‚ or LL specialitas (as SPECIAL)]
specialize
v. (also -ise) 1 intr. (often foll. by in) a be or become a
specialist (specializes in optics). b devote oneself to an area
of interest, skill, etc. (specializes in insulting people). 2
Biol. a tr. (esp. in passive) adapt or set apart (an organ
etc.) for a particular purpose. b intr. (of an organ etc.)
become adapted etc. in this way. 3 tr. make specific or
individual. 4 tr. modify or limit (an idea, statement, etc.).
ЬЬspecialization n. [F sp‚cialiser (as SPECIAL)]
specialty n. (pl. -ies) 1 esp. US = SPECIALITY. 2 Law an instrument
under seal; a sealed contract. [ME f. OF (e)specialt‚ (as
SPECIAL)]
speciation
n. Biol. the formation of a new species in the course of
evolution.
specie n. coin money as opposed to paper money. [L, ablat. of SPECIES
in phrase in specie]
species n. (pl. same) 1 a class of things having some common
characteristics. 2 Biol. a category in the system of
classification of living organisms consisting of similar
individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding. 3 a
kind or sort. 4 Logic a group subordinate to a genus and
containing individuals agreeing in some common attribute(s) and
called by a common name. 5 Law a form or shape given to
materials. 6 Eccl. the visible form of each of the elements of
consecrated bread and wine in the Eucharist. [L, = appearance,
kind, beauty, f. specere look]
specific adj. & n. --adj. 1 clearly defined; definite (has no specific
name; told me so in specific terms). 2 relating to a particular
subject; peculiar (a style specific to that). 3 a of or
concerning a species (the specific name for a plant). b
possessing, or concerned with, the properties that characterize
a species (the specific forms of animals). 4 (of a duty or a
tax) assessed by quantity or amount, not by the value of goods.
--n. 1 archaic a specific medicine or remedy. 2 a specific
aspect or factor (shall we discuss specifics?). Ьspecific cause
the cause of a particular form of a disease. specific
difference a factor that differentiates a species. specific
disease a disease caused by one identifiable agent. specific
gravity = relative density. specific heat capacity the heat
required to raise the temperature of the unit mass of a given
substance by a given amount (usu. one degree). specific
medicine a medicine having a distinct effect in curing a certain
disease. specific performance Law the performance of a
contractual duty, as ordered in cases where damages would not be
adequate remedy. ЬЬspecifically adv. specificity n.
specificness n. [LL specificus (as SPECIES)]
specification
n. 1 the act or an instance of specifying; the state of being
specified. 2 (esp. in pl.) a detailed description of the
construction, workmanship, materials, etc., of work done or to
be done, prepared by an architect, engineer, etc. 3 a
description by an applicant for a patent of the construction and
use of his invention. 4 Law the conversion of materials into a
new product not held to be the property of the owner of the
materials. [med.L specificatio (as SPECIFY)]
specify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 (also absol.) name or mention expressly
(specified the type he needed). 2 (usu. foll. by that + clause)
name as a condition (specified that he must be paid at once). 3
include in specifications (a French window was not specified).
ЬЬspecifiable adj. specifier n. [ME f. OF specifier or LL
specificare (as SPECIFIC)]
specimen n. 1 an individual or part taken as an example of a class or
whole, esp. when used for investigation or scientific
examination (specimens of copper ore; a specimen of your
handwriting). 2 Med. a sample of urine for testing. 3 colloq.
usu. derog. a person of a specified sort. [L f. specere look]
speciology
n. the scientific study of species or of their origin etc.
ЬЬspeciological adj.
specious adj. 1 superficially plausible but actually wrong (a specious
argument). 2 misleadingly attractive in appearance.
ЬЬspeciosity n. speciously adv. speciousness n. [ME, =
beautiful, f. L speciosus (as SPECIES)]
speck n. & v. --n. 1 a small spot, dot, or stain. 2 (foll. by of) a
particle (speck of dirt). 3 a rotten spot in fruit. --v.tr.
(esp. as specked adj.) marked with specks. ЬЬspeckless adj.
[OE specca: cf. SPECKLE]
speckle n. & v. --n. a small spot, mark, or stain, esp. in quantity on
the skin, a bird's egg, etc. --v.tr. (esp. as speckled adj.)
mark with speckles or patches. [ME f. MDu. spekkel]
specs n.pl. colloq. a pair of spectacles. [abbr.]
spectacle n. 1 a public show, ceremony, etc. 2 anything attracting
public attention (a charming spectacle; a disgusting spectacle).
Ьmake a spectacle of oneself make oneself an object of ridicule.
[ME f. OF f. L spectaculum f. spectare frequent. of specere
look]
spectacled
adj. 1 wearing spectacles. 2 (of an animal) having facial
markings resembling spectacles. Ьspectacled bear a S. American
bear, Tremarctos ornatus. spectacled cobra the Indian cobra.
spectacles
n.pl. (also pair of spectacles sing.) a pair of lenses in a
frame resting on the nose and ears, used to correct defective
eyesight or protect the eyes.
spectacular
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or like a public show; striking,
amazing, lavish. 2 strikingly large or obvious (a spectacular
increase in output). --n. an event intended to be spectacular,
esp. a musical film or play. ЬЬspectacularly adv. [SPECTACLE,
after oracular etc.]
spectate v.intr. be a spectator, esp. at a sporting event. [back-form.
f. SPECTATOR]
spectator n. a person who looks on at a show, game, incident, etc.
Ьspectator sport a sport attracting spectators rather than
participants. ЬЬspectatorial adj. [F spectateur or L spectator
f. spectare: see SPECTACLE]
spectra pl. of SPECTRUM.
spectral adj. 1 a of or relating to spectres or ghosts. b ghostlike. 2
of or concerning spectra or the spectrum (spectral colours;
spectral analysis). ЬЬspectrally adv.
spectre n. (US specter) 1 a ghost. 2 a haunting presentiment or
preoccupation (the spectre of war). 3 (in comb.) used in the
names of some animals because of their thinness, transparency,
etc. (spectre-bat; spectre-crab). ЬSpectre of the Brocken a
huge shadowy image of the observer projected on mists about a
mountain-top (observed on the Brocken in Germany). [F spectre
or L spectrum: see SPECTRUM]
spectro- comb. form a spectrum.
spectrochemistry
n. chemistry based on the study of the spectra of substances.
spectrogram
n. a record obtained with a spectrograph.
spectrograph
n. an apparatus for photographing or otherwise recording
spectra. ЬЬspectrographic adj. spectrographically adv.
spectrography n.
spectroheliograph
n. an instrument for taking photographs of the sun in the light
of one wavelength only.
spectrohelioscope
n. a device similar to a spectroheliograph, for visual
observation.
spectrometer
n. an instrument used for the measurement of observed spectra.
ЬЬspectrometric adj. spectrometry n. [G Spektrometer or F
spectromЉtre (as SPECTRO-, -METER)]
spectrophotometer
n. an instrument for measuring and recording the intensity of
light in various parts of the spectrum. ЬЬspectrophotometric
adj. spectrophotometry n.
spectroscope
n. an instrument for producing and recording spectra for
examination. ЬЬspectroscopic adj. spectroscopical adj.
spectroscopist n. spectroscopy n. [G Spektroskop or F
spectroscope (as SPECTRO-, -SCOPE)]
spectrum n. (pl. spectra) 1 the band of colours, as seen in a rainbow
etc., arranged in a progressive series according to their
refrangibility or wavelength. 2 the entire range of wavelengths
of electromagnetic radiation. 3 a an image or distribution of
parts of electromagnetic radiation arranged in a progressive
series according to wavelength. b this as characteristic of a
body or substance when emitting or absorbing radiation. 4 a
similar image or distribution of energy, mass, etc., arranged
according to frequency, charge, etc. 5 the entire range or a
wide range of anything arranged by degree or quality etc. 6 (in
full ocular spectrum) an after-image. Ьspectrum (or spectral)
analysis chemical analysis by means of a spectroscope. [L, =
image, apparition f. specere look]
specula pl. of SPECULUM.
specular adj. 1 of or having the nature of a speculum. 2 reflecting.
Ьspecular iron ore lustrous haematite. [L specularis (as
SPECULUM)]
speculate v. 1 intr. (usu. foll. by on, upon, about) form a theory or
conjecture, esp. without a firm factual basis; meditate
(speculated on their prospects). 2 tr. (foll. by that, how,
etc. + clause) conjecture, consider (speculated how he might
achieve it). 3 intr. a invest in stocks etc. in the hope of
gain but with the possibility of loss. b gamble recklessly.
ЬЬspeculator n. [L speculari spy out, observe f. specula
watch-tower f. specere look]
speculation
n. 1 the act or an instance of speculating; a theory or
conjecture (made no speculation as to her age; is given to
speculation). 2 a a speculative investment or enterprise
(bought it as a speculation). b the practice of business
speculating. 3 a game in which trump cards are bought or sold.
[ME f. OF speculation or LL speculatio (as SPECULATE)]
speculative
adj. 1 of, based on, engaged in, or inclined to speculation. 2
(of a business investment) involving the risk of loss (a
speculative builder). ЬЬspeculatively adv. speculativeness n.
[ME f. OF speculatif -ive or LL speculativus (as SPECULATE)]
speculum n. (pl. specula) 1 Surgery an instrument for dilating the
cavities of the human body for inspection. 2 a mirror, usu. of
polished metal, esp. in a reflecting telescope. 3 Ornithol. a
lustrous coloured area on the wing of some birds, esp. ducks.
Ьspeculum-metal an alloy of copper and tin used as a mirror,
esp. in a telescope. [L, = mirror, f. specere look]
sped past and past part. of SPEED.
speech n. 1 the faculty or act of speaking. 2 a formal public
address. 3 a manner of speaking (a man of blunt speech). 4 a
remark (after this speech he was silent). 5 the language of a
nation, region, group, etc. 6 Mus. the act of sounding in an
organ-pipe etc. Ьthe Queen's (or King's) Speech a statement
including the Government's proposed measures read by the
sovereign at the opening of Parliament. speech day Brit. an
annual prize-giving day in many schools, usu. marked by speeches
etc. speech-reading lip-reading. speech therapist a person who
practises speech therapy. speech therapy treatment to improve
defective speech. speech-writer a person employed to write
speeches for a politician etc. to deliver. ЬЬspeechful adj.
[OE spr‘c, later spec f. WG, rel. to SPEAK]
speechify v.intr. (-ies, -ied) joc. or derog. make esp. boring or long
speeches. ЬЬspeechification n. speechifier n.
speechless
adj. 1 temporarily unable to speak because of emotion etc.
(speechless with rage). 2 dumb. ЬЬspeechlessly adv.
speechlessness n. [OE sp‘cleas (as SPEECH, -LESS)]
speed n. & v. --n. 1 rapidity of movement (with all speed; at full
speed). 2 a rate of progress or motion over a distance in time
(attains a high speed). 3 a a gear appropriate to a range of
speeds of a bicycle. b US or archaic such a gear in a motor
vehicle. 4 Photog. a the sensitivity of film to light. b the
light-gathering power of a lens. c the duration of an exposure.
5 sl. an amphetamine drug, esp. methamphetamine. 6 archaic
success, prosperity (send me good speed). --v. (past and past
part. sped) 1 intr. go fast (sped down the street). 2 (past
and past part. speeded) a intr. (of a motorist etc.) travel at
an illegal or dangerous speed. b tr. regulate the speed of (an
engine etc.). c tr. cause (an engine etc.) to go at a fixed
speed. 3 tr. send fast or on its way (speed an arrow from the
bow). 4 intr. & tr. archaic be or make prosperous or
successful (how have you sped?; God speed you!). Ьat speed
moving quickly. speed bump (or hump) a transverse ridge in the
road to control the speed of vehicles. speed limit the maximum
speed at which a road vehicle may legally be driven in a
particular area etc. speed merchant colloq. a motorist who
enjoys driving fast. speed up move or work at greater speed.
speed-up n. an increase in the speed or rate of working.
ЬЬspeeder n. [OE sped, spedan f. Gmc]
speedball n. sl. a mixture of cocaine with heroin or morphine.
speedboat n. a motor boat designed for high speed.
speedo n. (pl. -os) colloq. = SPEEDOMETER. [abbr.]
speedometer
n. an instrument on a motor vehicle etc. indicating its speed
to the driver. [SPEED + METER(1)]
speedway n. 1 a motor-cycle racing. b a stadium or track used for this.
2 US a road or track used for fast motor traffic.
speedwell n. any small herb of the genus Veronica, with a creeping or
ascending stem and tiny blue or pink flowers. [app. f. SPEED +
WELL(1)]
speedy adj. (speedier, speediest) 1 moving quickly; rapid. 2 done
without delay; prompt (a speedy answer). ЬЬspeedily adv.
speediness n.
speiss n. a compound of arsenic, iron, etc., formed in smelting
certain lead ores. [G Speise food, amalgam]
speleology
n. 1 the scientific study of caves. 2 the exploration of
caves. ЬЬspeleological adj. speleologist n. [F sp‚l‚ologie f.
L spelaeum f. Gk spelaion cave]
spell(1) v.tr. (past and past part. spelt or spelled) 1 (also absol.)
write or name the letters that form (a word etc.) in correct
sequence (spell 'exaggerate'; cannot spell properly). 2 a (of
letters) make up or form (a word etc.). b (of circumstances, a
scheme, etc.) result in; involve (spell ruin). Ьspell out (or
over) 1 make out (words, writing, etc.) letter by letter. 2
explain in detail (spelled out what the change would mean).
ЬЬspellable adj. [ME f. OF espel(l)er, f. Frank. (as SPELL(2))]
spell(2) n. 1 a form of words used as a magical charm or incantation. 2
an attraction or fascination exercised by a person, activity,
quality, etc. Ьunder a spell mastered by or as if by a spell.
[OE spel(l) f. Gmc]
spell(3) n. & v. --n. 1 a short or fairly short period (a cold spell in
April). 2 a turn of work (did a spell of woodwork). 3 Austral.
a period of rest from work. --v. 1 tr. a relieve or take the
place of (a person) in work etc. b allow to rest briefly. 2
intr. Austral. take a brief rest. [earlier as verb: later form
of dial. spele take place of f. OE spelian, of unkn. orig.]
spell(4) n. a splinter of wood etc. [perh. f. obs. speld]
spellbind tr. (past and past part. spellbound) 1 bind with or as if with
a spell; entrance. 2 (as spellbound adj.) entranced,
fascinated, esp. by a speaker, activity, quality, etc.
ЬЬspellbinder n. spellbindingly adv.
speller n. 1 a person who spells esp. in a specified way (is a poor
speller). 2 a book on spelling.
spellican var. of SPILLIKIN.
spelling n. 1 the process or activity of writing or naming the letters
of a word etc. 2 the way a word is spelled. 3 the ability to
spell (his spelling is weak). Ьspelling-bee a spelling
competition.
spelt(1) past and past part. of SPELL(1).
spelt(2) n. a species of wheat, Triticum aestivum. [OE f. OS spelta
(OHG spelza), ME f. MLG, MDu. spelte]
spelter n. impure zinc, esp. for commercial purposes. [corresp. to OF
espeautre, MDu. speauter, G Spialter, rel. to PEWTER]
spelunker n. US a person who explores caves, esp. as a hobby.
ЬЬspelunking n. [obs. spelunk cave f. L spelunca]
spence n. archaic a buttery or larder. [ME f. OF despense f. L
dispensa fem. past part. of dispendere: see DISPENSE]
spencer(1)
n. 1 a short close-fitting jacket. 2 a woman's thin usu.
woollen under-bodice worn for extra warmth in winter. [prob. f.
the 2nd Earl Spencer, Engl. politician d. 1834]
spencer(2)
n. Naut. a trysail. [perh. f. K. Spencer (early 19th c.)]
spend v.tr. (past and past part. spent) 1 (usu. foll. by on) a (also
absol.) pay out (money) in making a purchase etc. (spent њ5 on a
new pen). b pay out (money) for a particular person's benefit
or for the improvement of a thing (had to spend њ200 on the
car). 2 a use or consume (time or energy) (shall spend no more
effort; how do you spend your Sundays?). b (also refl.) use up;
exhaust; wear out (their ammunition was all spent; his anger was
soon spent; spent herself campaigning for justice). 3 tr. (as
spent adj.) having lost its original force or strength;
exhausted (the storm is spent; spent bullets). Ьspending money
pocket money. spend a penny Brit. colloq. urinate or defecate
(from the coin-operated locks of public lavatories).
ЬЬspendable adj. spender n. [OE spendan f. L expendere (see
EXPEND): in ME perh. also f. obs. dispend f. OF despendre
expend f. L dispendere: see DISPENSE]
spendthrift
n. & adj. --n. an extravagant person; a prodigal. --adj.
extravagant; prodigal.
Spenserian
adj. of, relating to, or in the style of Edmund Spenser, Engl.
poet d. 1599. ЬSpenserian stanza the stanza used by Spenser in
the Faerie Queene, with eight iambic pentameters and an
alexandrine, rhyming ababbcbcc. [E. Spenser]
spent past and past part. of SPEND.
sperm n. (pl. same or sperms) 1 = SPERMATOZOON. 2 the male
reproductive fluid containing spermatozoa; semen. 3 = sperm
whale. 4 = SPERMACETI. 5 = sperm oil. Ьsperm bank a supply of
semen stored for use in artificial insemination. sperm count
the number of spermatozoa in one ejaculation or a measured
amount of semen. sperm oil an oil obtained from the head of a
sperm whale, and used as a lubricant. sperm whale a large
whale, Physeter macrocephalus, hunted for the spermaceti and
sperm oil contained in its bulbous head, and for the ambergris
found in its intestines: also called CACHALOT. [ME f. LL sperma
f. Gk sperma -atos seed f. speiro sow: in sperm whale an abbr.
of SPERMACETI]
spermaceti
n. a white waxy substance produced by the sperm whale to aid
buoyancy, and used in the manufacture of candles, ointments,
etc. ЬЬspermacetic adj. [ME f. med.L f. LL sperma sperm + ceti
genit. of cetus f. Gk ketos whale, from the belief that it was
whale-spawn]
spermary n. (pl. -ies) an organ in which human or animal sperms are
generated. [mod.L spermarium (as SPERM)]
spermatic adj. of or relating to a sperm or spermary. Ьspermatic cord a
bundle of nerves, ducts, and blood vessels passing to the
testicles. [LL spermaticus f. Gk spermatikos (as SPERM)]
spermatid n. Biol. an immature male sex cell formed from a spermatocyte,
which may develop into a spermatozoon. ЬЬspermatidal adj.
spermato- comb. form Biol. a sperm or seed.
spermatocyte
n. a cell produced from a spermatogonium and which may divide
by meiosis into spermatids.
spermatogenesis
n. the production or development of mature spermatozoa.
ЬЬspermatogenetic adj.
spermatogonium
n. (pl. spermatogonia) a cell produced at an early stage in
the formation of spermatozoa, from which spermatocytes develop.
[SPERM + mod.L gonium f. Gk gonos offspring, seed]
spermatophore
n. an albuminous capsule containing spermatozoa found in
various invertebrates. ЬЬspermatophoric adj.
spermatophyte
n. any seed-bearing plant.
spermatozoid
n. the mature motile male sex cell of some plants.
spermatozoon
n. (pl. spermatozoa) the mature motile sex cell in animals.
ЬЬspermatozoal adj. spermatozoan adj. spermatozoic adj.
[SPERM + Gk zoion animal]
spermicide
n. a substance able to kill spermatozoa. ЬЬspermicidal adj.
spermo- comb. form = SPERMATO-.
spew v. (also spue) 1 tr. & intr. vomit. 2 (often foll. by out) a
tr. expel (contents) rapidly and forcibly. b intr. (of
contents) be expelled in this way. ЬЬspewer n. [OE spiwan,
speowan f. Gmc]
sp. gr. abbr. specific gravity.
sphagnum n. (pl. sphagna) (in full sphagnum moss) any moss of the genus
Sphagnum, growing in bogs and peat, and used as packing esp. for
plants, as fertilizer, etc. [mod.L f. Gk sphagnos a moss]
sphalerite
n. = BLENDE. [Gk sphaleros deceptive: cf. BLENDE]
spheno- comb. form Anat. the sphenoid bone. [Gk f. sphen wedge]
sphenoid adj. & n. --adj. 1 wedge-shaped. 2 of or relating to the
sphenoid bone. --n. (in full sphenoid bone) a large compound
bone forming the base of the cranium behind the eyes.
ЬЬsphenoidal adj. [mod.L sphenoides f. Gk sphenoeides f. sphen
wedge]
sphere n. & v. --n. 1 a solid figure, or its surface, with every
point on its surface equidistant from its centre. 2 an object
having this shape; a ball or globe. 3 a any celestial body. b
a globe representing the earth. c poet. the heavens; the sky.
d the sky perceived as a vault upon or in which celestial bodies
are represented as lying. e hist. each of a series of revolving
concentrically arranged spherical shells in which celestial
bodies were formerly thought to be set in a fixed relationship.
4 a a field of action, influence, or existence (have done much
within their own sphere). b a (usu. specified) stratum of
society or social class (moves in quite another sphere).
--v.tr. archaic or poet. 1 enclose in or as in a sphere. 2
form into a sphere. Ьmusic (or harmony) of the spheres the
natural harmonic tones supposedly produced by the movement of
the celestial spheres (see sense 3e of n.) or the bodies fixed
in them. oblique (or parallel or right) sphere the sphere of
the apparent heavens at a place where there is an oblique, zero,
or right angle between the equator and the horizon. sphere of
influence the claimed or recognized area of a State's interests,
an individual's control, etc. ЬЬspheral adj. [ME sper(e) f. OF
espere f. LL sphera, L f. Gk sphaira ball]
-sphere comb. form 1 having the form of a sphere (bathysphere). 2 a
region round the earth (atmosphere).
spheric adj. = SPHERICAL. ЬЬsphericity n.
spherical adj. 1 shaped like a sphere; globular. 2 a of or relating to
the properties of spheres (spherical geometry). b formed inside
or on the surface of a sphere (spherical triangle). Ьspherical
aberration a loss of definition in the image produced by a
spherically curved mirror or lens. spherical angle an angle
formed by the intersection of two great circles of a sphere.
ЬЬspherically adv. [LL sphaericus f. Gk sphairikos (as SPHERE)]
spheroid n. 1 a spherelike but not perfectly spherical body. 2 a solid
generated by a half-revolution of an ellipse about its major
axis (prolate spheroid) or minor axis (oblate spheroid).
ЬЬspheroidal adj. spheroidicity n.
spherometer
n. an instrument for finding the radius of a sphere and for the
exact measurement of the thickness of small bodies. [F
sph‚romЉtre (as SPHERE, -METER)]
spherule n. a small sphere. ЬЬspherular adj. [LL sphaerula dimin. of L
sphaera (as SPHERE)]
spherulite
n. a vitreous globule as a constituent of volcanic rocks.
ЬЬspherulitic adj.
sphincter n. Anat. a ring of muscle surrounding and serving to guard or
close an opening or tube, esp. the anus. ЬЬsphincteral adj.
sphinctered adj. sphincterial adj. sphincteric adj. [L f. Gk
sphigkter f. sphiggo bind tight]
sphingid n. any hawk moth of the family Sphingidae. [as SPHINX +
-ID(3)]
sphinx n. 1 (Sphinx) (in Greek mythology) the winged monster of
Thebes, having a woman's head and a lion's body, whose riddle
Oedipus guessed and who consequently killed herself. 2 Antiq.
a any of several ancient Egyptian stone figures having a lion's
body and a human or animal head. b (the Sphinx) the huge sphinx
near the Pyramids at Giza. 3 an enigmatic or inscrutable
person. 4 a a hawk moth. b a species of baboon, Papio sphinx.
[L f. Gk Sphigx, app. f. sphiggo draw tight]
sphragistics
n.pl. (also treated as sing.) the study of engraved seals. [F
sphragistique (n. & adj.) f. Gk sphragistikos f. sphragis seal]
sphygmo- comb. form Physiol. a pulse or pulsation. [Gk sphugmo- f.
sphugmos pulse f. sphuzo to throb]
sphygmogram
n. a record produced by a sphygmograph.
sphygmograph
n. an instrument for showing the character of a pulse in a
series of curves. ЬЬsphygmographic adj. sphygmographically
adv. sphygmography n.
sphygmology
n. the scientific study of the pulse. ЬЬsphygmological adj.
sphygmomanometer
n. an instrument for measuring blood pressure.
ЬЬsphygmomanometric adj.
spica n. 1 Bot. a spike or spikelike form. 2 Surgery a spiral
bandage with reversed turns, suggesting an ear of corn.
ЬЬspicate adj. spicated adj. [L, = spike, ear of corn, rel. to
spina SPINE: in sense 2 after Gk stakhus]
spiccato n., adj., & adv. Mus. --n. (pl. -os) 1 a style of staccato
playing on stringed instruments involving bouncing the bow on
the strings. 2 a passage in this style. --adj. performed or to
be performed in this style. --adv. in this style. [It., =
detailed, distinct]
spice n. & v. --n. 1 an aromatic or pungent vegetable substance used
to flavour food, e.g. cloves, pepper, or mace. 2 spices
collectively (a dealer in spice). 3 a an interesting or piquant
quality. b (foll. by of) a slight flavour or suggestion (a
spice of malice). --v.tr. 1 flavour with spice. 2 add an
interesting or piquant quality to (a book spiced with humour).
[ME f. OF espice(r) f. L species specific kind: in LL pl. =
merchandise]
spicebush n. any aromatic shrub of the genus Lindera or Calycanthus,
native to America.
spick and span
adj. 1 smart and new. 2 neat and clean. [16th-c. spick and
span new, emphatic extension of ME span new f. ON sp n-n°r f.
sp nn chip + n°r new]
spicknel n. = BALDMONEY. [var. of SPIGNEL]
spicule n. 1 any small sharp-pointed body. 2 Zool. a small hard
calcareous or siliceous body, esp. in the framework of a sponge.
3 Bot. a small or secondary spike. 4 Astron. a spikelike
prominence, esp. one appearing as a jet of gas in the sun's
corona. ЬЬspicular adj. spiculate adj. [mod.L spicula,
spiculum, dimins. of SPICA]
spicy adj. (spicier, spiciest) 1 of, flavoured with, or fragrant with
spice. 2 piquant, pungent; sensational or improper (a spicy
story). ЬЬspicily adv. spiciness n.
spider n. & v. --n. 1 a any eight-legged arthropod of the order
Araneae with a round unsegmented body, many of which spin webs
for the capture of insects as food. b any of various similar or
related arachnids, e.g. a red spider. 2 any object comparable
to a spider, esp. as having numerous or prominent legs or
radiating spokes. 3 Brit. a radiating series of elastic ties
used to hold a load in place on a vehicle etc. --v.intr. 1
move in a scuttling manner suggestive of a spider (fingers
spidered across the map). 2 cause to move or appear in this
way. 3 (as spidering adj.) spiderlike in form, manner, or
movement (spidering streets). Ьspider crab any of various crabs
of the family Majidae with a pear-shaped body and long thin
legs. spider monkey any S. American monkey of the genus Ateles,
with long limbs and a prehensile tail. spider plant any of
various house plants with long narrow striped leaves.
ЬЬspiderish adj. [OE spithra (as SPIN)]
spiderman n. (pl. -men) Brit. colloq. a person who works at great
heights in building construction.
spiderwort
n. any plant of the genus Tradescantia, esp. T. virginiana,
having flowers with long hairy stamens.
spidery adj. elongated and thin (spidery handwriting).
spiegeleisen
n. an alloy of iron and manganese, used in steel-making. [G f.
Spiegel mirror + Eisen iron]
spiel n. & v. sl. --n. a glib speech or story, esp. a salesman's
patter. --v. 1 intr. speak glibly; hold forth. 2 tr. reel off
(patter etc.). [G, = play, game]
spieler n. sl. 1 esp. US a person who spiels. 2 Austral. a gambler;
a swindler. [G (as SPIEL)]
spiffy adj. (spiffier, spiffiest) esp. US sl. = SPIFFING. ЬЬspiffily
adv.
spiflicate
v.tr. (also spifflicate) esp. joc. 1 destroy. 2 beat (in a
fight etc.). [18th c.: fanciful]
spignel n. = BALDMONEY. [perh. f. ME spigurnel plant-name, f. med.L
spigurnellus, of unkn. orig.]
spigot n. 1 a small peg or plug, esp. for insertion into the vent-hole
of a cask. 2 a US a tap. b a device for controlling the flow
of liquid in a tap. 3 the plain end of a pipe-section fitting
into the socket of the next one. [ME, perh. f. Prov.
espigou(n) f. L spiculum dimin. of spicum = SPICA]
spike(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a a sharp point. b a pointed piece of metal,
esp. the top of an iron railing etc. 2 a any of several metal
points set into the sole of a running-shoe to prevent slipping.
b (in pl.) a pair of running-shoes with spikes. 3 a a pointed
metal rod standing on a base and used for filing news items etc.
esp. when rejected for publication. b a similar spike used for
bills etc. 4 a large stout nail esp. as used for railways. 5
sl. a hypodermic needle. 6 Brit. sl. a doss-house. 7
Electronics a pulse of very short duration in which a rapid
increase in voltage is followed by a rapid decrease. --v.tr. 1
a fasten or provide with spikes. b fix on or pierce with
spikes. 2 (of a newspaper editor etc.) reject (a story) by
filing it on a spike. 3 colloq. a lace (a drink) with alcohol,
a drug, etc. b contaminate (a substance) with something added.
4 make useless, put an end to, thwart (an idea etc.). 5 hist.
plug up the vent of (a gun) with a spike. Ьspike a person's
guns spoil his or her plans. spike heel a high tapering heel of
a shoe. [ME perh. f. MLG, MDu. spiker, rel. to SPOKE(1)]
spike(2) n. Bot. 1 a flower-cluster formed of many flower-heads
attached closely on a long stem. 2 a separate sprig of any
plant in which flowers form a spikelike cluster. ЬЬspikelet n.
[ME, = ear of corn, f. L SPICA]
spikenard n. 1 Bot. an Indian plant, Nardostachys grandiflora. 2 hist. a
costly perfumed ointment made from this. [ME ult. f. med.L
spica nardi (as SPIKE(2), NARD) after Gk nardostakhus]
spiky(1) adj. (spikier, spikiest) 1 like a spike; having many spikes. 2
colloq. easily offended; prickly. ЬЬspikily adv. spikiness n.
spiky(2) adj. Bot. having spikes or ears.
spile n. & v. --n. 1 a wooden peg or spigot. 2 a large timber or
pile for driving into the ground. 3 US a small spout for
tapping the sap from a sugar-maple etc. --v.tr. make a
spike-hole in (a cask etc.) in order to draw off liquid. [MDu.,
MLG, = wooden peg etc.: in sense 'pile' app. alt. of PILE(2)]
spill(1) v. & n. --v. (past and past part. spilt or spilled) 1 intr. &
tr. fall or run or cause (a liquid, powder, etc.) to fall or run
out of a vessel, esp. unintentionally. 2 a tr. & intr. throw (a
person etc.) from a vehicle, saddle, etc. b intr. (esp. of a
crowd) tumble out quickly from a place etc. (the fans spilled
into the street). 3 tr. sl. disclose (information etc.). 4
tr. Naut. a empty (a sail) of wind. b lose (wind) from a
sail. --n. 1 a the act or an instance of spilling or being
spilt. b a quantity spilt. 2 a tumble or fall, esp. from a
horse etc. (had a nasty spill). 3 Austral. the vacating of all
or several posts of a parliamentary party to allow
reorganization. Ьspill the beans colloq. divulge information
etc., esp. unintentionally or indiscreetly. spill blood be
guilty of bloodshed. spill the blood of kill or injure (a
person). spill over 1 overflow. 2 (of a surplus population) be
forced to move (cf. OVERSPILL). ЬЬspillage n. spiller n. [OE
spillan kill, rel. to OE spildan destroy: orig. unkn.]
spill(2) n. a thin strip of wood, folded or twisted paper, etc., used
for lighting a fire, candles, a pipe, etc. [ME, rel. to SPILE]
spillikin n. (also spellican) 1 a splinter of wood, bone, etc. 2 (in
pl.) a game in which a heap of spillikins is to be removed one
at a time without moving the others. [SPILL(2) + -KIN]
spillover n. 1 a the process or an instance of spilling over. b a thing
that spills over. 2 a consequence, repercussion, or by-product.
spillway n. a passage for surplus water from a dam.
spilt past and past part. of SPILL(1).
spilth n. 1 material that is spilled. 2 the act or an instance of
spilling. 3 an excess or surplus.
spin v. & n. --v. (spinning; past and past part. spun) 1 intr. &
tr. turn or cause (a person or thing) to turn or whirl round
quickly. 2 tr. (also absol.) a draw out and twist (wool,
cotton, etc.) into threads. b make (yarn) in this way. c make
a similar type of thread from (a synthetic substance etc.). 3
tr. (of a spider, silkworm, etc.) make (a web, gossamer, a
cocoon, etc.) by extruding a fine viscous thread. 4 tr. tell or
write (a story, essay, article, etc.) (spins a good tale). 5
tr. impart spin to (a ball). 6 intr. (of a person's head etc.)
be dizzy through excitement, astonishment, etc. 7 tr. shape
(metal) on a mould in a lathe etc. 8 intr. esp. Cricket (of a
ball) move through the air with spin. 9 tr. (as spun adj.)
converted into threads (spun glass; spun gold; spun sugar). 10
tr. fish in (a stream, pool, etc.) with a spinner. 11 tr. toss
(a coin). 12 tr. = spin-dry. --n. 1 a spinning motion; a
whirl. 2 an aircraft's diving descent combined with rotation.
3 a a revolving motion through the air, esp. in a rifle bullet
or in a billiard, tennis, or table tennis ball struck aslant. b
Cricket a twisting motion given to the ball in bowling. 4
colloq. a brief drive in a motor vehicle, aeroplane, etc., esp.
for pleasure. 5 Physics the intrinsic angular momentum of an
elementary particle. 6 Austral. & NZ sl. a piece of good or bad
luck. Ьspin bowler Cricket an expert at bowling with spin.
spin-drier a machine for drying wet clothes etc. centrifugally
in a revolving drum. spin-dry (-dries, -dried) dry (clothes
etc.) in this way. spin off throw off by centrifugal force in
spinning. spin-off n. an incidental result or results esp. as
a side benefit from industrial technology. spin out 1 prolong
(a discussion etc.). 2 make (a story, money, etc.) last as long
as possible. 3 spend or consume (time, one's life, etc., by
discussion or in an occupation etc.). 4 Cricket dismiss (a
batsman or side) by spin bowling. spin a yarn orig. Naut. tell
a story. spun silk a cheap material made of short-fibred and
waste silk. spun yarn Naut. a line formed of rope-yarns
twisted together. [OE spinnan]
spina bifida
n. a congenital defect of the spine, in which part of the
spinal cord and its meninges are exposed through a gap in the
backbone. [mod.L (as SPINE, BIFID)]
spinach n. 1 a green garden vegetable, Spinacia oleracea, with
succulent leaves. 2 the leaves of this plant used as food.
Ьspinach beet a variety of beetroot cultivated for its edible
leaves. ЬЬspinaceous adj. spinachy adj. [prob. MDu.
spinaetse, spinag(i)e, f. OF espinage, espinache f. med.L
spinac(h)ia etc. f. Arab. ' isfanak f. Pers. ispanak: perh.
assim. to L spina SPINE, with ref. to its prickly seeds]
spinal adj. of or relating to the spine (spinal curvature; spinal
disease). Ьspinal canal a cavity through the vertebrae
containing the spinal cord. spinal column the spine. spinal
cord a cylindrical structure of the central nervous system
enclosed in the spine, connecting all parts of the body with the
brain. ЬЬspinally adv. [LL spinalis (as SPINE)]
spindle n. & v. --n. 1 a a pin in a spinning-wheel used for twisting
and winding the thread. b a small bar with tapered ends used
for the same purpose in hand-spinning. c a pin bearing the
bobbin of a spinning-machine. 2 a pin or axis that revolves or
on which something revolves. 3 a turned piece of wood used as a
banister, chair leg, etc. 4 Biol. a spindle-shaped mass of
microtubules formed when a cell divides. 5 a varying measure of
length for yarn. 6 a slender person or thing. --v.intr. have,
or grow into, a long slender form. Ьspindle berry the fruit of
the spindle tree. spindle-shanked having long thin legs.
spindle-shanks a person with such legs. spindle-shaped having a
circular cross-section and tapering towards each end. spindle
side = distaff side. spindle tree any shrub or small tree of
the genus Euonymus, esp. E. europaeus with greenish-white
flowers, pink or red berries, and hard wood used for spindles.
[OE spinel (as SPIN)]
spindly adj. (spindlier, spindliest) long or tall and thin; thin and
weak.
spindrift n. spray blown along the surface of the sea. [Sc. var. of
spoondrift f. spoon run before wind or sea + DRIFT]
spine n. 1 a series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the
small of the back, enclosing the spinal cord and providing
support for the thorax and abdomen; the backbone. 2 Zool. &
Bot. any hard pointed process or structure. 3 a sharp ridge or
projection, esp. of a mountain range or slope. 4 a central
feature, main support, or source of strength. 5 the part of a
book's jacket or cover that encloses the page-fastening part and
usu. faces outwards on a shelf. Ьspine-chiller a frightening
story, film, etc. spine-chilling (esp. of a story etc.)
frightening. ЬЬspined adj. [ME f. OF espine or L spina thorn,
backbone]
spinel n. 1 any of a group of hard crystalline minerals of various
colours, consisting chiefly of oxides of magnesium and
aluminium. 2 any substance of similar composition or
properties. Ьspinel ruby a deep-red variety of spinel used as a
gem. [F spinelle f. It. spinella, dimin. of spina: see SPINE]
spineless adj. 1 a having no spine; invertebrate. b (of a fish) having
no fin-spines. 2 (of a person) lacking energy or resolution;
weak and purposeless. ЬЬspinelessly adv. spinelessness n.
spinet n. Mus. hist. a small harpsichord with oblique strings.
[obs. F espinette f. It. spinetta virginal, spinet, dimin. of
spina thorn etc. (as SPINE), with ref. to the plucked strings]
spinifex n. any Australian grass of the genus Spinifex, with coarse,
spiny leaves. [mod.L f. L spina SPINE + -fex maker f. facere
make]
spinnaker n. a large triangular sail carried opposite the mainsail of a
racing-yacht running before the wind. [fanciful f. Sphinx,
name of yacht first using it, perh. after spanker]
spinner n. 1 a person or thing that spins. 2 Cricket a a spin bowler.
b a spun ball. 3 a spin-drier. 4 a a real or artificial fly
for esp. trout-fishing. b revolving bait. 5 a manufacturer or
merchant engaged in (esp. cotton-) spinning. 6 = SPINNERET. 7
archaic a spider.
spinneret n. 1 the spinning-organ in a spider, silkworm, etc. 2 a device
for forming filaments of synthetic fibre.
spinney n. (pl. -eys) Brit. a small wood; a thicket. [OF espinei f.
L spinetum thicket f. spina thorn]
spinning n. the act or an instance of spinning. Ьspinning-jenny hist.
a machine for spinning with more than one spindle at a time.
spinning-machine a machine that spins fibres continuously.
spinning-top = TOP(2). spinning-wheel a household machine for
spinning yarn or thread with a spindle driven by a wheel
attached to a crank or treadle.
spinose adj. (also spinous) Bot. (of a plant) having many spines.
Spinozism n. Philos. the doctrine of Spinoza that there is one infinite
substance of which extension and thought are attributes and
human beings are changing forms. ЬЬSpinozist n. Spinozistic
adj. [B. de Spinoza, Du. philosopher d. 1677]
spinster n. 1 an unmarried woman. 2 a woman, esp. elderly, thought
unlikely to marry. ЬЬspinsterhood n. spinsterish adj.
spinsterishness n. [ME, orig. = woman who spins]
spinthariscope
n. an instrument with a fluorescent screen showing the
incidence of alpha particles by flashes. [irreg. f. Gk
spintharis spark + -SCOPE]
spinule n. Bot. & Zool. a small spine. ЬЬspinulose adj. spinulous
adj. [L spinula dimin. of spina SPINE]
spiny adj. (spinier, spiniest) 1 full of spines; prickly. 2
perplexing, troublesome, thorny. Ьspiny anteater = ECHIDNA.
spiny lobster any of various large edible crustaceans of the
family Palinuridae, esp. Palinuris vulgaris, with a spiny shell
and no large anterior claws. ЬЬspininess n.
spiracle n. (also spiraculum) (pl. spiracles or spiracula) an external
respiratory opening in insects, whales, and some fish.
ЬЬspiracular adj. [L spiraculum f. spirare breathe]
spiraea n. (US spirea) any rosaceous shrub of the genus Spiraea, with
clusters of small white or pink flowers. [L f. Gk speiraia f.
speira coil]
spiral adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 winding about a centre in an enlarging
or decreasing continuous circular motion, either on a flat plane
or rising in a cone; coiled. 2 winding continuously along or as
if along a cylinder, like the thread of a screw. --n. 1 a
plane or three-dimensional spiral curve. 2 a spiral spring. 3
a spiral formation in a shell etc. 4 a spiral galaxy. 5 a
progressive rise or fall of prices, wages, etc., each responding
to an upward or downward stimulus provided by the other (a
spiral of rising prices and wages). --v. (spiralled,
spiralling; US spiraled, spiraling) 1 intr. move in a spiral
course, esp. upwards or downwards. 2 tr. make spiral. 3 intr.
esp. Econ. (of prices, wages, etc.) rise or fall, esp. rapidly
(cf. sense 5 of n.). Ьspiral balance a device for measuring
weight by the torsion of a spiral spring. spiral galaxy a
galaxy in which the matter is concentrated mainly in one or more
spiral arms. spiral staircase a staircase rising in a spiral
round a central axis. ЬЬspirality n. spirally adv. [F spiral
or med.L spiralis (as SPIRE(2))]
spirant adj. & n. Phonet. --adj. (of a consonant) uttered with a
continuous expulsion of breath, esp. fricative. --n. such a
consonant. [L spirare spirant- breathe]
spire(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a tapering cone- or pyramid-shaped structure
built esp. on a church tower (cf. STEEPLE). 2 the
continuation of a tree trunk above the point where branching
begins. 3 any tapering thing, e.g. the spike of a flower.
--v.tr. provide with a spire. ЬЬspiry adj. [OE spir]
spire(2) n. 1 a a spiral; a coil. b a single twist of this. 2 the
upper part of a spiral shell. [F f. L spira f. Gk speira coil]
spirea US var. of SPIRAEA.
spirillum n. (pl. spirilla) 1 any bacterium of the genus Spirillum,
characterized by a rigid spiral structure. 2 any bacterium with
a similar shape. [mod.L, irreg. dimin. of L spira SPIRE(2)]
spirit n. & v. --n. 1 a the vital animating essence of a person or
animal (was sadly broken in spirit). b the intelligent
non-physical part of a person; the soul. 2 a a rational or
intelligent being without a material body. b a supernatural
being such as a ghost, fairy, etc. (haunted by spirits). 3 a
prevailing mental or moral condition or attitude; a mood; a
tendency (public spirit; took it in the wrong spirit). 4 a
(usu. in pl.) strong distilled liquor, e.g. brandy, whisky, gin,
rum. b a distilled volatile liquid (wood spirit). c purified
alcohol (methylated spirit). d a solution of a volatile
principle in alcohol; a tincture (spirit of ammonia). 5 a a
person's mental or moral nature or qualities, usu. specified
(has an unbending spirit). b a person viewed as possessing
these (is an ardent spirit). c (in full high spirit) courage,
energy, vivacity, dash (played with spirit; infused him with
spirit). 6 the real meaning as opposed to lip service or verbal
expression (the spirit of the law). 7 archaic an immaterial
principle thought to govern vital phenomena (animal spirits).
--v.tr. (spirited, spiriting) (usu. foll. by away, off, etc.)
convey rapidly and secretly by or as if by spirits. Ьin (or in
the) spirit inwardly (shall be with you in spirit). spirit
duplicator a duplicator using an alcoholic solution to reproduce
copies from a master sheet. spirit gum a quick-drying solution
of gum used esp. for attaching false hair. spirit-lamp a lamp
burning methylated or other volatile spirits instead of oil.
spirit-level a bent glass tube nearly filled with alcohol used
to test horizontality by the position of an air-bubble. the
spirit moves a person he or she feels inclined (to do something)
(orig. in Quaker use). spirit (or spirits) of wine archaic
purified alcohol. spirits of salt archaic hydrochloric acid.
spirit up animate or cheer (a person). [ME f. AF (e)spirit, OF
esp(e)rit, f. L spiritus breath, spirit f. spirare breathe]
spirited adj. 1 full of spirit; animated, lively, brisk, or courageous
(a spirited attack; a spirited translation). 2 having a spirit
or spirits of a specified kind (high-spirited; mean-spirited).
ЬЬspiritedly adv. spiritedness n.
spiritless
adj. lacking courage, vigour, or vivacity. ЬЬspiritlessly adv.
spiritlessness n.
spiritual adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or concerning the spirit as opposed to
matter. 2 concerned with sacred or religious things; holy;
divine; inspired (the spiritual life; spiritual songs). 3 (of
the mind etc.) refined, sensitive; not concerned with the
material. 4 (of a relationship etc.) concerned with the soul or
spirit etc., not with external reality (his spiritual home).
--n. = Negro spiritual. Ьspiritual courts ecclesiastical
courts. ЬЬspirituality n. spiritually adv. spiritualness n.
[ME f. OF spirituel f. L spiritualis (as SPIRIT)]
spiritualism
n. 1 a the belief that the spirits of the dead can communicate
with the living, esp. through mediums. b the practice of this.
2 Philos. the doctrine that the spirit exists as distinct from
matter, or that spirit is the only reality (cf. MATERIALISM).
ЬЬspiritualist n. spiritualistic adj.
spiritualize
v.tr. (also -ise) 1 make (a person or a person's character,
thoughts, etc.) spiritual; elevate. 2 attach a spiritual as
opposed to a literal meaning to. ЬЬspiritualization n.
spirituel adj. (also spirituelle) (of the mind) refined and yet spirited;
witty. [F spirituel, fem. -elle (as SPIRITUAL)]
spirituous
adj. 1 containing much alcohol. 2 distilled, as whisky, rum,
etc. (spirituous liquor). ЬЬspirituousness n. [L spiritus
spirit, or F spiritueux]
spiro-(1) comb. form a coil. [L spira, Gk speira coil]
spiro-(2) comb. form breath. [irreg. f. L spirare breathe]
spirochaete
n. (US spirochete) any of various flexible spiral-shaped
bacteria. [SPIRO-(1) + Gk khaite long hair]
spirograph
n. an instrument for recording breathing movements.
ЬЬspirographic adj. spirographically adv.
spirogyra n. any freshwater alga of the genus Spirogyra, with cells
containing spiral bands of chlorophyll. [mod.L f. SPIRO-(1) +
Gk guros gura round]
spirometer
n. an instrument for measuring the air capacity of the lungs.
spirt var. of SPURT.
spit(1) v. & n. --v. (spitting; past and past part. spat or spit) 1
intr. a eject saliva from the mouth. b do this as a sign of
hatred or contempt (spat at him). 2 tr. (usu. foll. by out) a
eject (saliva, blood, food, etc.) from the mouth (spat the meat
out). b utter (oaths, threats, etc.) vehemently ('Damn you!' he
spat). 3 intr. (of a fire, pen, pan, etc.) send out sparks,
ink, hot fat, etc. 4 intr. (of rain) fall lightly (it's only
spitting). 5 intr. (esp. of a cat) make a spitting or hissing
noise in anger or hostility. --n. 1 spittle. 2 the act or an
instance of spitting. 3 the foamy liquid secretion of some
insects used to protect their young. Ьthe spit (or very spit)
of colloq. the exact double of (cf. spitting image). spit and
polish 1 the cleaning and polishing duties of a soldier etc. 2
exaggerated neatness and smartness. spit chips Austral. sl. 1
feel extreme thirst. 2 be angry or frustrated. spit it out
colloq. say what is on one's mind. spitting cobra the African
black-necked cobra, Naja nigricollis, that ejects venom by
spitting, not striking. spitting distance a very short
distance. spitting image (foll. by of) colloq. the exact
double of (another person or thing). ЬЬspitter n. [OE spittan,
of imit. orig.: cf. SPEW]
spit(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a slender rod on which meat is skewered before
being roasted on a fire etc.; a skewer. 2 a a small point of
land projecting into the sea. b a long narrow underwater bank.
--v.tr. (spitted, spitting) 1 thrust a spit through (meat
etc.). 2 pierce or transfix with a sword etc. Ьspit-roast cook
on a spit. ЬЬspitty adj. [OE spitu f. WG]
spit(3) n. (pl. same or spits) a spade-depth of earth (dig it two spit
deep). [MDu. & MLG, = OE spittan dig with spade, prob. rel. to
SPIT(2)]
spitball n. & v. --n. US 1 a ball of chewed paper etc. used as a
missile. 2 a baseball moistened by the pitcher to impart spin.
--v.intr. throw out suggestions for discussion. ЬЬspitballer n.
spitchcock
n. & v. --n. an eel split and broiled. --v.tr. prepare (an
eel, fish, bird, etc.) in this way. [16th c.: orig. unkn.: cf.
SPATCHCOCK]
spite n. & v. --n. 1 ill will, malice towards a person (did it from
spite). 2 a grudge. --v.tr. thwart, mortify, annoy (does it to
spite me). Ьin spite of notwithstanding. in spite of oneself
etc. though one would rather have done otherwise. [ME f. OF
despit DESPITE]
spiteful adj. motivated by spite; malevolent. ЬЬspitefully adv.
spitefulness n.
spitfire n. a person of fiery temper.
spittle n. saliva, esp. as ejected from the mouth. ЬЬspittly adj.
[alt. of ME (now dial.) spattle = OE spatl f. sp‘tan to spit,
after SPIT(1)]
spittoon n. a metal or earthenware pot with esp. a funnel-shaped top,
used for spitting into.
spitz n. 1 a small type of dog with a pointed muzzle, esp. a
Pomeranian. 2 this breed. [G Spitz(hund) f. spitz pointed +
Hund dog]
spiv n. Brit. colloq. a man, often characterized by flashy dress,
who makes a living by illicit or unscrupulous dealings.
ЬЬspivvish adj. spivvy adj. [20th c.: orig. unkn.]
splanchnic
adj. of or relating to the viscera; intestinal. [mod.L
splanchnicus f. Gk splagkhnikos f. splagkhna entrails]
splash v. & n. --v. 1 intr. & tr. spatter or cause (liquid) to
spatter in small drops. 2 tr. cause (a person) to be spattered
with liquid etc. (splashed them with mud). 3 intr. a (of a
person) cause liquid to spatter (was splashing about in the
bath). b (usu. foll. by across, along, etc.) move while
spattering liquid etc. (splashed across the carpet in his
boots). c step, fall, or plunge etc. into a liquid etc. so as
to cause a splash (splashed into the sea). 4 tr. display (news)
prominently. 5 tr. decorate with scattered colour. 6 tr. spend
(money) ostentatiously. --n. 1 the act or an instance of
splashing. 2 a a quantity of liquid splashed. b the resulting
noise (heard a splash). 3 a spot of dirt etc. splashed on to a
thing. 4 a prominent news feature etc. 5 a daub or patch of
colour, esp. on an animal's coat. 6 Brit. colloq. a small
quantity of liquid, esp. of soda water etc. to dilute spirits.
Ьmake a splash attract much attention, esp. by extravagance.
splash out colloq. spend money freely. ЬЬsplashy adj.
(splashier, splashiest). [alt. of PLASH(1)]
splashback
n. a panel behind a sink etc. to protect the wall from
splashes.
splashdown
n. the alighting of a spacecraft on the sea.
splat(1) n. a flat piece of thin wood in the centre of a chair-back.
[splat (v.) split up, rel. to SPLIT]
splat(2) n., adv., & v. colloq. --n. a sharp cracking or slapping sound
(hit the wall with a splat). --adv. with a splat (fell splat on
his head). --v.intr. & tr. (splatted, splatting) fall or hit
with a splat. [abbr. of SPLATTER]
splatter v. & n. --v.tr. & intr. 1 splash esp. with a continuous noisy
action. 2 US spatter. --n. a noisy splashing sound. [imit.]
splay v., n., & adj. --v. 1 tr. (usu. foll. by out) spread (the
elbows, feet, etc.) out. 2 intr. (of an aperture or its sides)
diverge in shape or position. 3 tr. construct (a window,
doorway, aperture, etc.) so that it diverges or is wider at one
side of the wall than the other. --n. a surface making an
oblique angle with another, e.g. the splayed side of a window or
embrasure. --adj. 1 wide and flat. 2 turned outward.
Ьsplay-foot a broad flat foot turned outward. splay-footed
having such feet. [ME f. DISPLAY]
spleen n. 1 an abdominal organ involved in maintaining the proper
condition of blood in most vertebrates. 2 lowness of spirits;
moroseness, ill temper, spite (from the earlier belief that the
spleen was the seat of such feelings) (a fit of spleen; vented
their spleen). ЬЬspleenful adj. spleeny adj. [ME f. OF esplen
f. L splen f. Gk splen]
spleenwort
n. any fern of the genus Asplenium, formerly used as a remedy
for disorders of the spleen.
splen- comb. form Anat. the spleen. [Gk (as SPLEEN)]
splendent adj. formal 1 shining; lustrous. 2 illustrious. [ME f. L
splendere to shine]
splendid adj. 1 magnificent, gorgeous, brilliant, sumptuous (a splendid
palace; a splendid achievement). 2 dignified; impressive
(splendid isolation). 3 excellent; fine (a splendid chance).
ЬЬsplendidly adv. splendidness n. [F splendide or L splendidus
(as SPLENDENT)]
splendiferous
adj. colloq. or joc. splendid. ЬЬsplendiferously adv.
splendiferousness n. [irreg. f. SPLENDOUR]
splendour n. (US splendor) 1 great or dazzling brightness. 2
magnificence; grandeur. [ME f. AF splendeur or L splendor (as
SPLENDENT)]
splenectomy
n. (pl. -ies) the surgical excision of the spleen.
splenetic adj. & n. --adj. 1 ill-tempered; peevish. 2 of or concerning
the spleen. --n. a splenetic person. ЬЬsplenetically adv. [LL
spleneticus (as SPLEEN)]
splenic adj. of or in the spleen. Ьsplenic fever anthrax. ЬЬsplenoid
adj. [F spl‚nique or L splenicus f. Gk splenikos (as SPLEEN)]
splenitis n. inflammation of the spleen.
splenius n. (pl. splenii) Anat. either section of muscle on each side
of the neck and back serving to draw back the head. ЬЬsplenial
adj. [mod.L f. Gk splenion bandage]
splenology
n. the scientific study of the spleen.
splenomegaly
n. a pathological enlargement of the spleen. [SPLEN- + megaly
(as MEGALO-)]
splenotomy
n. (pl. -ies) a surgical incision into or dissection of the
spleen.
splice v. & n. --v.tr. 1 join the ends of (ropes) by interweaving
strands. 2 join (pieces of timber, magnetic tape, film, etc.)
in an overlapping position. 3 (esp. as spliced adj.) colloq.
join in marriage. --n. a joint consisting of two ropes, pieces
of wood, film, etc., made by splicing, e.g. the handle and blade
of a cricket bat. Ьsplice the main brace Naut. hist. issue an
extra tot of rum. ЬЬsplicer n. [prob. f. MDu. splissen, of
uncert. orig.]
spliff n. (also splif) sl. a cannabis cigarette. [20th c.: orig.
unkn.]
spline n. & v. --n. 1 a rectangular key fitting into grooves in the
hub and shaft of a wheel and allowing longitudinal play. 2 a
slat. 3 a flexible wood or rubber strip used esp. in drawing
large curves. --v.tr. fit with a spline (sense 1). [orig. E.
Anglian dial., perh. rel. to SPLINTER]
splint n. & v. --n. 1 a a strip of rigid material used for holding a
broken bone etc. when set. b a rigid or flexible strip of esp.
wood used in basketwork etc. 2 a tumour or bony excrescence on
the inside of a horse's leg. 3 a thin strip of wood etc. used
to light a fire, pipe, etc. 4 = splint-bone. --v.tr. secure (a
broken limb etc.) with a splint or splints. Ьsplint-bone 1
either of two small bones in a horse's foreleg lying behind and
close to the cannon-bone. 2 the human fibula. splint-coal hard
bituminous laminated coal burning with great heat. [ME
splent(e) f. MDu. splinte or MLG splinte, splente metal plate
or pin, rel. to SPLINTER]
splinter v. & n. --v.tr. & intr. break into fragments. --n. a small
thin sharp-edged piece broken off from wood, stone, etc.
Ьsplinter-bar Brit. a crossbar in a vehicle to which traces are
attached; a swingletree. splinter group (or party) a group or
party that has broken away from a larger one. splinter-proof
proof against splinters e.g. from bursting shells or bombs.
ЬЬsplintery adj. [ME f. MDu. (= LG) splinter, splenter, rel. to
SPLINT]
split v. & n. --v. (splitting; past and past part. split) 1 intr. &
tr. a break or cause to break forcibly into parts, esp. with
the grain or into halves. b (often foll. by up) divide into
parts (split into groups; split up the money equally). 2 tr. &
intr. (often foll. by off, away) remove or be removed by
breaking, separating, or dividing (split the top off the bottle;
split away from the main group). 3 intr. & tr. a (usu. foll.
by up, on, over, etc.) separate esp. through discord (split up
after ten years; they were split on the question of picketing).
b (foll. by with) quarrel or cease association with (another
person etc.). 4 tr. cause the fission of (an atom). 5 intr. &
tr. sl. leave, esp. suddenly. 6 intr. (usu. foll. by on)
colloq. betray secrets; inform (split on them to the police). 7
intr. a (as splitting adj.) (esp. of a headache) very painful;
acute. b (of the head) suffer great pain from a headache,
noise, etc. 8 intr. (of a ship) be wrecked. 9 tr. US colloq.
dilute (whisky etc.) with water. --n. 1 the act or an instance
of splitting; the state of being split. 2 a fissure, vent,
crack, cleft, etc. 3 a separation into parties; a schism. 4
(in pl.) Brit. the athletic feat of leaping in the air or
sitting down with the legs at right angles to the body in front
and behind, or at the sides with the trunk facing forwards. 5 a
split osier etc. used for parts of basketwork. 6 each strip of
steel, cane, etc., of the reed in a loom. 7 a single thickness
of split hide. 8 the turning up of two cards of equal value in
faro, so that the stakes are divided. 9 a half a bottle of
mineral water. b half a glass of liquor. 10 colloq. a division
of money, esp. the proceeds of crime. Ьsplit the difference
take the average of two proposed amounts. split gear (or pulley
or wheel) a gear etc. made in halves for removal from a shaft.
split hairs make small and insignificant distinctions. split
infinitive a phrase consisting of an infinitive with an adverb
etc. inserted between to and the verb, e.g. seems to really
like it. split-level (of a building) having a room or rooms a
fraction of a storey higher than other parts. split mind =
SCHIZOPHRENIA. split pea a pea dried and split in half for
cooking. split personality the alteration or dissociation of
personality occurring in some mental illnesses, esp.
schizophrenia and hysteria. split pin a metal cotter passed
through a hole and held by the pressing back of the two ends.
split ring a small steel ring with two spiral turns, such as a
key-ring. split-screen a screen on which two or more separate
images are displayed. split second a very brief moment of time.
split shift a shift comprising two or more separate periods of
duty. split shot (or stroke) Croquet a stroke driving two
touching balls in different directions. split one's sides be
convulsed with laughter. split the ticket (or one's vote) US
vote for candidates of more than one party. split the vote
Brit. (of a candidate or minority party) attract votes from
another so that both are defeated by a third. ЬЬsplitter n.
[orig. Naut. f. MDu. splitten, rel. to spletten, spliten, MHG
splizen]
splodge n. & v. colloq. --n. a daub, blot, or smear. --v.tr. make a
large, esp. irregular, spot or patch on. ЬЬsplodgy adj.
[imit., or alt. of SPLOTCH]
splosh v. & n. colloq. --v.tr. & intr. move with a splashing sound.
--n. 1 a splashing sound. 2 a splash of water etc. 3 sl.
money. [imit.]
splotch n. & v.tr. = SPLODGE. ЬЬsplotchy adj. [perh. f. SPOT + obs.
plotch BLOTCH]
splurge n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 an ostentatious display or effort. 2
an instance of sudden great extravagance. --v.intr. 1 (usu.
foll. by on) spend effort or esp. large sums of money (splurged
on new furniture). 2 splash heavily. [19th-c. US: prob. imit.]
splutter v. & n. --v. 1 intr. a speak in a hurried, vehement, or
choking manner. b emit particles from the mouth, sparks, hot
oil, etc., with spitting sounds. 2 tr. a speak or utter
(words, threats, a language, etc.) rapidly or incoherently. b
emit (food, sparks, hot oil, etc.) with a spitting sound. --n.
spluttering speech. ЬЬsplutterer n. splutteringly adv.
[SPUTTER by assoc. with splash]
Spode n. a type of fine pottery or porcelain. [J. Spode, Engl.
maker of china d. 1827]
spoil v. & n. --v. (past and past part. spoilt or spoiled) 1 tr. a
damage; diminish the value of (was spoilt by the rain; will
spoil all the fun). b reduce a person's enjoyment etc. of (the
news spoiled his dinner). 2 tr. injure the character of (esp. a
child, pet, etc.) by excessive indulgence. 3 intr. a (of food)
go bad, decay; become unfit for eating. b (usu. in neg.) (of a
joke, secret, etc.) become stale through long keeping. 4 tr.
render (a ballot paper) invalid by improper marking. 5 tr.
(foll. by of) archaic or literary plunder or deprive (a person
of a thing) by force or stealth (spoiled him of all his
possessions). --n. 1 (usu. in pl.) a plunder taken from an
enemy in war, or seized by force. b esp. joc. profit or
advantages gained by succeeding to public office, high position,
etc. 2 earth etc. thrown up in excavating, dredging, etc. Ьbe
spoiling for aggressively seek (a fight etc.). spoils system US
the practice of giving public office to the adherents of a
successful party. spoilt for choice having so many choices that
it is difficult to choose. [ME f. OF espoillier, espoille f. L
spoliare f. spolium spoil, plunder, or f. DESPOIL]
spoilage n. 1 paper spoilt in printing. 2 the spoiling of food etc. by
decay.
spoiler n. 1 a person or thing that spoils. 2 a a device on an
aircraft to retard its speed by interrupting the air flow. b a
similar device on a vehicle to improve its road-holding at
speed.
spoilsman n. (pl. -men) US esp. Polit. 1 an advocate of the spoils
system. 2 a person who seeks to profit by it.
spoilsport
n. a person who spoils others' pleasure or enjoyment.
spoilt past and past part. of SPOIL.
spoke(1) n. & v. --n. 1 each of the bars running from the hub to the
rim of a wheel. 2 a rung of a ladder. 3 each radial handle of
the wheel of a ship etc. --v.tr. 1 provide with spokes. 2
obstruct (a wheel etc.) by thrusting a spoke in. Ьput a spoke
in a person's wheel Brit. thwart or hinder a person.
spoke-bone the radius of the forearm. ЬЬspokewise adv. [OE
spaca f. WG]
spoke(2) past of SPEAK.
spoken past part. of SPEAK. --adj. (in comb.) speaking in a specified
way (smooth-spoken; well-spoken). Ьspoken for claimed,
requisitioned (this seat is spoken for).
spokeshave
n. a blade set between two handles, used for shaping spokes and
other esp. curved work where an ordinary plane is not suitable.
spokesman n. (pl. -men; fem. spokeswoman, pl. -women) 1 a person who
speaks on behalf of others, esp. in the course of public
relations. 2 a person deputed to express the views of a group
etc. [irreg. f. SPOKE(2) after craftsman etc.]
spokesperson
n. (pl. -persons or -people) a spokesman or spokeswoman.
spoliation
n. 1 a plunder or pillage, esp. of neutral vessels in war. b
extortion. 2 Eccl. the taking of the fruits of a benefice under
a pretended title etc. 3 Law the destruction, mutilation, or
alteration, of a document to prevent its being used as evidence.
ЬЬspoliator n. spoliatory adj. [ME f. L spoliatio (as SPOIL)]
spondaic adj. 1 of or concerning spondees. 2 (of a hexameter) having a
spondee as a fifth foot. [F sponda‹que or LL spondaicus = LL
spondiacus f. Gk spondeiakos (as SPONDEE)]
spondee n. Prosody a foot consisting of two long (or stressed)
syllables. [ME f. OF spondee or L spondeus f. Gk spondeios
(pous foot) f. sponde libation, as being characteristic of
music accompanying libations]
spondulicks
n.pl. sl. money. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
spondylitis
n. inflammation of the vertebrae. [L spondylus vertebra f. Gk
spondulos + -ITIS]
sponge n. & v. --n. 1 any aquatic animal of the phylum Porifera, with
pores in its body wall and a rigid internal skeleton. 2 a the
skeleton of a sponge, esp. the soft light elastic absorbent kind
used in bathing, cleansing surfaces, etc. b a piece of porous
rubber or plastic etc. used similarly. 3 a thing of spongelike
absorbency or consistency, e.g. a sponge pudding, cake, porous
metal, etc. (lemon sponge). 4 = SPONGER. 5 colloq. a person
who drinks heavily. 6 cleansing with or as with a sponge (had a
quick sponge this morning). --v. 1 tr. wipe or cleanse with a
sponge. 2 tr. (also absol.; often foll. by down, over) sluice
water over (the body, a car, etc.). 3 tr. (often foll. by out,
away, etc.) wipe off or efface (writing, a memory, etc.) with or
as with a sponge. 4 tr. (often foll. by up) absorb with or as
with a sponge. 5 intr. (often foll. by on, off) live as a
parasite; be meanly dependent upon (another person). 6 tr.
obtain (drink etc.) by sponging. 7 intr. gather sponges. 8 tr.
apply paint with a sponge to (walls, furniture, etc.). Ьsponge
bag a waterproof bag for toilet articles. sponge cake a very
light cake with a spongelike consistency. sponge cloth 1 soft,
lightly-woven cloth with a slightly wrinkled surface. 2 a thin
spongy material used for cleaning. sponge pudding Brit. a
steamed or baked pudding of fat, flour, and eggs with a usu.
specified flavour. sponge rubber liquid rubber latex processed
into a spongelike substance. sponge tree a spiny tropical
acacia, Acacia farnesiana, with globose heads of fragrant yellow
flowers yielding a perfume: also called OPOPANAX. ЬЬspongeable
adj. spongelike adj. spongiform adj. (esp. in senses 1, 2).
[OE f. L spongia f. Gk spoggia, spoggos]
sponger n. a person who contrives to live at another's expense.
spongy adj. (spongier, spongiest) 1 like a sponge, esp. in being
porous, compressible, elastic, or absorbent. 2 (of metal)
finely divided and loosely coherent. ЬЬspongily adv.
sponginess n.
sponsion n. 1 being a surety for another. 2 a pledge or promise made on
behalf of the State by an agent not authorized to do so. [L
sponsio f. spondere spons- promise solemnly]
sponson n. 1 a projection from the side of a warship or tank to enable
a gun to be trained forward and aft. 2 a short subsidiary wing
to stabilize a seaplane. 3 a triangular platform supporting the
wheel on a paddle-steamer. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
sponsor n. & v. --n. 1 a person who supports an activity done for
charity by pledging money in advance. 2 a a person or
organization that promotes or supports an artistic or sporting
activity etc. b esp. US a business organization that promotes
a broadcast programme in return for advertising time. 3 an
organization lending support to an election candidate. 4 a
person who introduces a proposal for legislation. 5 a godparent
at baptism or esp. RC Ch. a person who presents a candidate for
confirmation. 6 a person who makes himself or herself
responsible for another. --v.tr. be a sponsor for.
ЬЬsponsorial adj. sponsorship n. [L (as SPONSION)]
spontaneous
adj. 1 acting or done or occurring without external cause. 2
voluntary, without external incitement (made a spontaneous offer
of his services). 3 Biol. (of structural changes in plants and
muscular activity esp. in young animals) instinctive,
automatic, prompted by no motive. 4 (of bodily movement,
literary style, etc.) gracefully natural and unconstrained. 5
(of sudden movement etc.) involuntary, not due to conscious
volition. 6 growing naturally without cultivation.
Ьspontaneous combustion the ignition of a mineral or vegetable
substance (e.g. a heap of rags soaked with oil, a mass of wet
coal) from heat engendered within itself, usu. by rapid
oxidation. spontaneous generation the supposed production of
living from non-living matter as inferred from the appearance of
life (due in fact to bacteria etc.) in some infusions;
abiogenesis. spontaneous suggestion suggestion from association
of ideas without conscious volition. ЬЬspontaneity n.
spontaneously adv. spontaneousness n. [LL spontaneus f.
sponte of one's own accord]
spoof n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 a parody. 2 a hoax or swindle.
--v.tr. 1 parody. 2 hoax, swindle. ЬЬspoofer n. spoofery n.
[invented by A. Roberts, English comedian d. 1933]
spook n. & v. --n. 1 colloq. a ghost. 2 US sl. a spy. --v. US sl.
1 tr. frighten, unnerve, alarm. 2 intr. take fright, become
alarmed. [Du., = MLG spok, of unkn. orig.]
spooky adj. (spookier, spookiest) 1 colloq. ghostly, eerie. 2 US sl.
nervous; easily frightened. 3 US sl. of spies or espionage.
ЬЬspookily adv. spookiness n.
spool n. & v. --n. 1 a a reel for winding magnetic tape,
photographic film, etc., on. b a reel for winding yarn or US
thread on. c a quantity of tape, yarn, etc., wound on a spool.
2 the revolving cylinder of an angler's reel. --v.tr. wind on a
spool. [ME f. OF espole or f. MLG spole, MDu. spoele, OHG
spuolo, of unkn. orig.]
spoon n. & v. --n. 1 a a utensil consisting of an oval or round bowl
and a handle for conveying food (esp. liquid) to the mouth, for
stirring, etc. b a spoonful, esp. of sugar. c (in pl.) Mus. a
pair of spoons held in the hand and beaten together
rhythmically. 2 a spoon-shaped thing, esp.: a (in full
spoon-bait) a bright revolving piece of metal used as a lure in
fishing. b an oar with a broad curved blade. c a wooden-headed
golf club. 3 colloq. a a silly or demonstratively fond lover.
b a simpleton. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by up, out) take
(liquid etc.) with a spoon. 2 tr. hit (a ball) feebly upwards.
3 colloq. a intr. behave in an amorous way, esp. foolishly. b
tr. archaic woo in a silly or sentimental way. 4 intr. fish
with a spoon-bait. Ьborn with a silver spoon in one's mouth
born in affluence. spoon-bread US soft maize bread. ЬЬspooner
n. spoonful n. (pl. -fuls). [OE spon chip of wood f. Gmc]
spoonbill n. 1 any large wading bird of the subfamily Plataleidae, having
a bill with a very broad flat tip. 2 a shoveller duck.
spoonerism
n. a transposition, usu. accidental, of the initial letters
etc. of two or more words, e.g. you have hissed the mystery
lectures. [Revd W. A. Spooner, English scholar d. 1930,
reputed to make such errors in speaking]
spoonfeed v.tr. (past and past part. -fed) 1 feed (a baby etc.) with a
spoon. 2 provide help, information, etc., to (a person) without
requiring any effort on the recipient's part. 3 artificially
encourage (an industry) by subsidies or import duties.
spoony adj. & n. colloq. archaic --adj. (spoonier, spooniest) 1
(often foll. by on) sentimental, amorous. 2 foolish, silly.
--n. (pl. -ies) a simpleton. ЬЬspoonily adv. spooniness n.
spoor n. & v. --n. the track or scent of an animal. --v.tr. & intr.
follow by the spoor. ЬЬspoorer n. [Afrik. f. MDu. spo(o)r f.
Gmc]
sporadic adj. occurring only here and there or occasionally, separate,
scattered. ЬЬsporadically adv. [med.L sporadicus f. Gk
sporadikos f. sporas -ados scattered: cf. speiro to sow]
sporangium
n. (pl. sporangia) Bot. a receptacle in which spores are
found. ЬЬsporangial adj. [mod.L f. Gk spora SPORE + aggeion
vessel]
spore n. 1 a specialized reproductive cell of many plants and
micro-organisms. 2 these collectively. [mod.L spora f. Gk
spora sowing, seed f. speiro sow]
sporo- comb. form Biol. a spore. [Gk spora (as SPORE)]
sporogenesis
n. the process of spore formation.
sporogenous
adj. producing spores.
sporophyte
n. a spore-producing form of plant with alternating sexual and
asexual generations. ЬЬsporophytic adj. sporophytically adv.
sporran n. a pouch, usu. of leather or sealskin covered with fur etc.,
worn by a Highlander in front of the kilt. [Gael. sporan f.
med.L bursa PURSE]
sport n. & v. --n. 1 a a game or competitive activity, esp. an
outdoor one involving physical exertion, e.g. cricket, football,
racing, hunting. b such activities collectively (the world of
sport). 2 (in pl.) Brit. a a meeting for competing in sports,
esp. athletics (school sports). b athletics. 3 amusement,
diversion, fun. 4 colloq. a a fair or generous person. b a
person behaving in a specified way, esp. regarding games, rules,
etc. (a bad sport at tennis). c Austral. a form of address,
esp. between males. d US a playboy. 5 Biol. an animal or plant
deviating suddenly or strikingly from the normal type. 6 a
plaything or butt (was the sport of Fortune). --v. 1 intr.
divert oneself, take part in a pastime. 2 tr. wear, exhibit, or
produce, esp. ostentatiously (sported a gold tie-pin). 3 intr.
Biol. become or produce a sport. Ьhave good sport be successful
in shooting, fishing, etc. in sport jestingly. make sport of
make fun of, ridicule. the sport of kings horse-racing (less
often war, hunting, or surfing). sports car an open, low-built
fast car. sports coat (or jacket) a man's jacket for informal
wear. sports writer a person who writes (esp. as a journalist)
on sports. ЬЬsporter n. [ME f. DISPORT]
sporting adj. 1 interested in sport (a sporting man). 2 sportsmanlike,
generous (a sporting offer). 3 concerned in sport (a sporting
dog; sporting news). Ьa sporting chance some possibility of
success. sporting house US a brothel. ЬЬsportingly adv.
sportive adj. playful. ЬЬsportively adv. sportiveness n.
sportscast
n. US a broadcast of a sports event or information about sport.
ЬЬsportscaster n.
sportsman n. (pl. -men; fem. sportswoman, pl. -women) 1 a person who
takes part in much sport, esp. professionally. 2 a person who
behaves fairly and generously. ЬЬsportsmanlike adj.
sportsmanly adj. sportsmanship n.
sporty adj. (sportier, sportiest) colloq. 1 fond of sport. 2 rakish,
showy. ЬЬsportily adv. sportiness n.
sporule n. a small spore or a single spore. ЬЬsporular adj. [F
sporule or mod.L sporula (as SPORE)]
spot n. & v. --n. 1 a a small part of the surface of a thing
distinguished by colour, texture, etc., usu. round or less
elongated than a streak or stripe (a blue tie with pink spots).
b a small mark or stain. c a pimple. d a small circle or other
shape used in various numbers to distinguish faces of dice,
playing-cards in a suit, etc. e a moral blemish or stain
(without a spot on his reputation). 2 a a particular place; a
definite locality (dropped it on this precise spot; the spot
where William III landed). b a place used for a particular
activity (often in comb.: nightspot). c (prec. by the) Football
the place from which a penalty kick is taken. 3 a particular
part of one's body or aspect of one's character. 4 a colloq.
one's esp. regular position in an organization, programme of
events, etc. b a place or position in a performance or show
(did the spot before the interval). 5 Brit. a colloq. a small
quantity of anything (a spot of lunch; a spot of trouble). b a
drop (a spot of rain). c colloq. a drink. 6 = SPOTLIGHT. 7
(usu. attrib.) money paid or goods delivered immediately after
a sale (spot cash; spot silver). 8 Billiards etc. a a small
round black patch to mark the position where a ball is placed at
certain times. b (in full spot-ball) the white ball
distinguished from the other by two black spots. --v.
(spotted, spotting) 1 tr. a colloq. single out beforehand (the
winner of a race etc.). b colloq. recognize the identity,
nationality, etc., of (spotted him at once as the murderer). c
watch for and take note of (trains, talent, etc.). d colloq.
catch sight of. e Mil. locate (an enemy's position), esp. from
the air. 2 a tr. & intr. mark or become marked with spots. b
tr. stain, soil (a person's character etc.). 3 intr. make
spots, rain slightly (it was spotting with rain). 4 tr.
Billiards place (a ball) on a spot. Ьin a spot (or in a tight
etc. spot) colloq. in difficulty. on the spot 1 at the scene
of an action or event. 2 colloq. in a position such that
response or action is required. 3 without delay or change of
place, then and there. 4 (of a person) wide awake, equal to the
situation, in good form at a game etc. put on the spot US sl.
decide to murder. running on the spot raising the feet
alternately as in running but without moving forwards or
backwards. spot check a test made on the spot or on a
randomly-selected subject. spot height 1 the altitude of a
point. 2 a figure on a map showing this. spot on Brit.
colloq. adj. precise; on target. --adv. precisely. spot weld
a weld made in spot welding. spot-weld v.tr. join by spot
welding. spot welder a person or device that spot-welds. spot
welding welding two surfaces together in a series of discrete
points. [ME, perh. f. MDu. spotte, LG spot, ON spotti small
piece]
spotless adj. immaculate; absolutely clean or pure. ЬЬspotlessly adv.
spotlessness n.
spotlight n. & v. --n. 1 a beam of light directed on a small area, esp.
on a particular part of a theatre stage or of the road in front
of a vehicle. 2 a lamp projecting this. 3 full attention or
publicity. --v.tr. (past and past part. -lighted or -lit) 1
direct a spotlight on. 2 make conspicuous, draw attention to.
spotted adj. marked or decorated with spots. Ьspotted dick (or dog) 1
Brit. a suet pudding containing currants. 2 a Dalmatian dog.
spotted fever 1 cerebrospinal meningitis. 2 typhus.
ЬЬspottedness n.
spotter n. 1 (often in comb.) a person who spots people or things
(train-spotter). 2 an aviator or aircraft employed in locating
enemy positions etc.
spotty adj. (spottier, spottiest) 1 marked with spots. 2 patchy,
irregular. ЬЬspottily adv. spottiness n.
spouse n. a husband or wife. [ME spus(e) f. OF sp(o)us (masc.),
sp(o)use (fem.), vars. of espous(e) f. L sponsus sponsa past
part. of spondere betroth]
spout n. & v. --n. 1 a a projecting tube or lip through which a
liquid etc. is poured from a teapot, kettle, jug, etc., or
issues from a fountain, pump, etc. b a sloping trough down
which a thing may be shot into a receptacle. c hist. a lift
serving a pawnbroker's storeroom. 2 a jet or column of liquid,
grain, etc. 3 (in full spout-hole) a whale's blow-hole.
--v.tr. & intr. 1 discharge or issue forcibly in a jet. 2
utter (verses etc.) or speak in a declamatory manner, speechify.
Ьup the spout sl. 1 useless, ruined, hopeless. 2 pawned. 3
pregnant. ЬЬspouter n. spoutless adj. [ME f. MDu. spouten,
orig. imit.]
SPQR abbr. 1 hist. the Senate and people of Rome. 2 small profits
and quick returns. [sense 1 f. L Senatus Populusque Romanus]
Spr. abbr. (in the UK) Sapper.
sprag n. 1 a thick piece of wood or similar device used as a brake.
2 a support-prop in a coal mine. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
sprain v. & n. --v.tr. wrench (an ankle, wrist, etc.) violently so as
to cause pain and swelling but not dislocation. --n. 1 such a
wrench. 2 the resulting inflammation and swelling. [17th c.:
orig. unkn.]
sprang past of SPRING.
sprat n. & v. --n. 1 a small European herring-like fish, Sprattus
sprattus, much used as food. 2 a similar fish, e.g. a sand eel
or a young herring. --v.intr. (spratted, spratting) fish for
sprats. Ьa sprat to catch a mackerel a small risk to gain much.
ЬЬspratter n. spratting n. [OE sprot]
sprauncy adj. (sprauncier, spraunciest) Brit. sl. smart or showy.
[20th c.: perh. rel. to dial. sprouncey cheerful]
sprawl v. & n. --v. 1 a intr. sit or lie or fall with limbs flung out
or in an ungainly way. b tr. spread (one's limbs) in this way.
2 intr. (of handwriting, a plant, a town, etc.) be of irregular
or straggling form. --n. 1 a sprawling movement or attitude.
2 a straggling group or mass. 3 the straggling expansion of an
urban or industrial area. ЬЬsprawlingly adv. [OE spreawlian]
spray(1) n. & v. --n. 1 water or other liquid flying in small drops
from the force of the wind, the dashing of waves, or the action
of an atomizer etc. 2 a liquid preparation to be applied in
this form with an atomizer etc., esp. for medical purposes. 3
an instrument or apparatus for such application. --v.tr. (also
absol.) 1 throw (liquid) in the form of spray. 2 sprinkle (an
object) with small drops or particles, esp. (a plant) with an
insecticide. 3 (absol.) (of a tom-cat) mark its environment
with the smell of its urine, as an attraction to females.
Ьspray-dry (-dries, -dried) dry (milk etc.) by spraying into hot
air etc. spray-gun a gunlike device for spraying paint etc.
spray-paint paint (a surface) by means of a spray. ЬЬsprayable
adj. sprayer n. [earlier spry, perh. rel. to MDu. spra(e)yen,
MHG spr‘jen sprinkle]
spray(2) n. 1 a sprig of flowers or leaves, or a branch of a tree with
branchlets or flowers, esp. a slender or graceful one. 2 an
ornament in a similar form (a spray of diamonds). ЬЬsprayey
adj. [ME f. OE spr‘g (unrecorded)]
spread v. & n. --v. (past and past part. spread) 1 tr. (often foll.
by out) a open or extend the surface of. b cause to cover a
larger surface (spread butter on bread). c display to the eye
or the mind (the view was spread out before us). 2 intr. (often
foll. by out) have a wide or specified or increasing extent (on
every side spread a vast desert; spreading trees). 3 intr. &
tr. become or make widely known, felt, etc. (rumours are
spreading; spread a little happiness). 4 tr. a cover the
surface of (spread the wall with paint; a meadow spread with
daisies). b lay (a table). --n. 1 the act or an instance of
spreading. 2 capability of expanding (has a large spread). 3
diffusion (spread of learning). 4 breadth, compass (arches of
equal spread). 5 an aircraft's wing-span. 6 increased bodily
girth (middle-aged spread). 7 the difference between two rates,
prices, etc. 8 colloq. an elaborate meal. 9 a sweet or savoury
paste for spreading on bread etc. 10 a bedspread. 11 printed
matter spread across two facing pages or across more than one
column. 12 US a ranch with extensive land. Ьspread eagle 1 a
representation of an eagle with legs and wings extended as an
emblem. 2 hist. a person secured with arms and legs spread out,
esp. to be flogged. spread-eagle v.tr. (usu. as spread-eagled
adj.) 1 place (a person) in this position. 2 defeat utterly. 3
spread out. --adj. US bombastic, esp. noisily patriotic.
spread oneself be lavish or discursive. spread one's wings see
WING. ЬЬspreadable adj. spreader n. [OE -spr‘dan f. WG]
spreadsheet
n. a computer program allowing manipulation and flexible
retrieval of esp. tabulated numerical data.
Sprechgesang
n. Mus. a style of dramatic vocalization between speech and
song. [G, lit. 'speech song']
spree n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 a lively extravagant outing (shopping
spree). 2 a bout of fun or drinking etc. --v.intr. (sprees,
spreed) have a spree. Ьon the spree engaged in a spree. [19th
c.: orig. unkn.]
sprig(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a small branch or shoot. 2 an ornament
resembling this, esp. on fabric. 3 usu. derog. a youth or
young man (a sprig of the nobility). --v.tr. (sprigged,
sprigging) 1 ornament with sprigs (a dress of sprigged muslin).
2 (usu. as sprigging n.) decorate (ceramic ware) with ornaments
in applied relief. ЬЬspriggy adj. [ME f. or rel. to LG sprick]
sprig(2) n. a small tapering headless tack. [ME: orig. unkn.]
sprightly adj. (sprightlier, sprightliest) vivacious, lively, brisk.
ЬЬsprightliness n. [spright var. of SPRITE + -LY(1)]
spring v. & n. --v. (past sprang or US sprung; past part. sprung) 1
intr. jump; move rapidly or suddenly (sprang from his seat;
sprang through the gap; sprang to their assistance). 2 intr.
move rapidly as from a constrained position or by the action of
a spring (the branch sprang back; the door sprang to). 3 intr.
(usu. foll. by from) originate or arise (springs from an old
family; their actions spring from a false conviction). 4 intr.
(usu. foll. by up) come into being; appear, esp. suddenly (a
breeze sprang up; the belief has sprung up). 5 tr. cause to act
suddenly, esp. by means of a spring (spring a trap). 6 tr.
(often foll. by on) produce or develop or make known suddenly or
unexpectedly (has sprung a new theory; loves to spring
surprises). 7 tr. sl. contrive the escape or release of. 8
tr. rouse (game) from earth or covert. 9 a intr. become warped
or split. b tr. split, crack (wood or a wooden implement). 10
tr. (usu. as sprung adj.) provide (a motor vehicle etc.) with
springs. 11 a tr. colloq. spend (money). b intr. (usu. foll.
by for) US & Austral. sl. pay for a treat. 12 tr. cause (a
mine) to explode. --n. 1 a jump (took a spring; rose with a
spring). 2 a backward movement from a constrained position; a
recoil, e.g. of a bow. 3 elasticity; ability to spring back
strongly (a mattress with plenty of spring). 4 a resilient
device usu. of bent or coiled metal used esp. to drive
clockwork or for cushioning in furniture or vehicles. 5 a the
season in which vegetation begins to appear, the first season of
the year, in the N. hemisphere from March to May and in the S.
hemisphere from September to November. b Astron. the period
from the vernal equinox to the summer solstice. c (often foll.
by of) the early stage of life etc. d = spring tide. 6 a place
where water, oil, etc., wells up from the earth; the basin or
flow so formed (hot springs; mineral springs). 7 the motive for
or origin of an action, custom, etc. (the springs of human
action). 8 sl. an escape or release from prison. 9 the upward
curve of a beam etc. from a horizontal line. 10 the splitting
or yielding of a plank etc. under strain. Ьspring balance a
balance that measures weight by the tension of a spring. spring
bed a bed with a spring mattress. spring chicken 1 a young fowl
for eating (orig. available only in spring). 2 (esp. with neg.)
a young person (she's no spring chicken). spring-clean n. a
thorough cleaning of a house or room, esp. in spring. --v.tr.
clean (a house or room) in this way. spring fever a restless or
lethargic feeling sometimes associated with spring. spring
greens the leaves of young cabbage plants. spring a leak
develop a leak (orig. Naut., from timbers springing out of
position). spring-loaded containing a compressed or stretched
spring pressing one part against another. spring mattress a
mattress containing or consisting of springs. spring onion an
onion taken from the ground before the bulb has formed, and
eaten raw in salad. spring roll a Chinese snack consisting of a
pancake filled with vegetables etc. and fried. spring tide a
tide just after new and full moon when there is the greatest
difference between high and low water. spring water water from
a spring, as opposed to river or rain water. sprung rhythm a
poetic metre approximating to speech, each foot having one
stressed syllable followed by a varying number of unstressed.
ЬЬspringless adj. springlet n. springlike adj. [OE springan
f. Gmc]
springboard
n. 1 a springy board giving impetus in leaping, diving, etc. 2
a source of impetus in any activity. 3 US & Austral. a platform
inserted in the side of a tree, on which a lumberjack stands to
chop at some height from the ground.
springbok n. 1 a southern African gazelle, Antidorcas marsupialis, with
the ability to run with high springing jumps. 2 (Springbok) a
South African, esp. one who has played for South Africa in
international sporting competitions. [Afrik. f. Du. springen
SPRING + bok antelope]
springe n. a noose or snare for catching small game. [ME, rel. to obs.
sprenge, and SPRING]
springer n. 1 a person or thing that springs. 2 a a small spaniel of a
breed used to spring game. b this breed. 3 Archit. a the part
of an arch where the curve begins. b the lowest stone of this.
c the bottom stone of the coping of a gable. d a rib of a
groined roof or vault. 4 a springbok.
springtail
n. any wingless insect of the order Collembola, leaping by
means of a springlike caudal part.
springtide
n. poet. = SPRINGTIME.
springtime
n. 1 the season of spring. 2 a time compared to this.
springy adj. (springier, springiest) 1 springing back quickly when
squeezed or stretched, elastic. 2 (of movements) as of a
springy substance. ЬЬspringily adv. springiness n.
sprinkle v. & n. --v.tr. 1 scatter (liquid, ashes, crumbs, etc.) in
small drops or particles. 2 (often foll. by with) subject (the
ground or an object) to sprinkling with liquid etc. 3 (of
liquid etc.) fall on in this way. 4 distribute in small
amounts. --n. (usu. foll. by of) 1 a light shower. 2 =
SPRINKLING. [ME, perh. f. MDu. sprenkelen]
sprinkler n. a person or thing that sprinkles, esp. a device for
sprinkling water on a lawn or to extinguish fires.
sprinkling
n. (usu. foll. by of) a small thinly distributed number or
amount.
sprint v. & n. --v. 1 intr. run a short distance at full speed. 2
tr. run (a specified distance) in this way. --n. 1 such a run.
2 a similar short spell of maximum effort in cycling, swimming,
motor racing, etc. ЬЬsprinter n. [ON sprinta (unrecorded), of
unkn. orig.]
sprit n. a small spar reaching diagonally from the mast to the upper
outer corner of the sail. [OE spreot pole, rel. to SPROUT]
sprite n. an elf, fairy, or goblin. [ME f. sprit var. of SPIRIT]
spritsail n. 1 a sail extended by a sprit. 2 hist. a sail extended by a
yard set under the bowsprit.
spritz v. & n. US --v.tr. sprinkle, squirt, or spray. --n. the act or
an instance of spritzing. [G spritzen to squirt]
spritzer n. a mixture of wine and soda water. [G Spritzer a splash]
sprocket n. 1 each of several teeth on a wheel engaging with links of a
chain, e.g. on a bicycle, or with holes in film or tape or
paper. 2 (also sprocket-wheel) a wheel with sprockets. [16th
c.: orig. unkn.]
sprog n. sl. a child; a baby. [orig. services' sl., = new recruit:
perh. f. obs. sprag lively young man]
sprout v. & n. --v. 1 tr. put forth, produce (shoots, hair, etc.)
(has sprouted a moustache). 2 intr. begin to grow, put forth
shoots. 3 intr. spring up, grow to a height. --n. 1 a shoot
of a plant. 2 = BRUSSELS SPROUT. [OE sprutan (unrecorded) f.
WG]
spruce(1) adj. & v. --adj. neat in dress and appearance; trim, smart.
--v.tr. & intr. (also refl.; usu. foll. by up) make or become
smart. ЬЬsprucely adv. spruceness n. [perh. f. SPRUCE(2) in
obs. sense 'Prussian', in the collocation spruce (leather)
jerkin]
spruce(2) n. 1 any coniferous tree of the genus Picea, with dense foliage
growing in a distinctive conical shape. 2 the wood of this tree
used as timber. Ьspruce beer a fermented beverage using spruce
twigs and needles as flavouring. [alt. of obs. Pruce Prussia:
cf. PRUSSIAN]
spruce(3) v. Brit. sl. 1 tr. deceive. 2 intr. lie, practise deception.
3 intr. evade a duty, malinger. ЬЬsprucer n. [20th c.: orig.
unkn.]
sprue(1) n. 1 a channel through which metal or plastic is poured into a
mould. 2 a piece of metal or plastic which has filled a sprue
and solidified there. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
sprue(2) n. a tropical disease with ulceration of the mucous membrane of
the mouth and chronic enteritis. [Du. spruw THRUSH(2); cf.
Flem. spruwen sprinkle]
spruik v.intr. Austral. & NZ sl. speak in public, esp. as a showman.
ЬЬspruiker n. [20th c.: orig. unkn.]
spruit n. S.Afr. a small watercourse, usu. dry except during the
rainy season. [Du., rel. to SPROUT]
spud n. & v. --n. 1 sl. a potato. 2 a small narrow spade for
cutting the roots of weeds etc. --v.tr. (spudded, spudding) 1
(foll. by up, out) remove (weeds) with a spud. 2 (also absol.;
often foll. by in) make the initial drilling for (an oil well).
Ьspud-bashing Brit. sl. a lengthy spell of peeling potatoes.
[ME: orig. unkn.]
spue var. of SPEW.
spumante n. an Italian sparkling white wine (cf. ASTI). [It., =
'sparkling']
spume n. & v.intr. froth, foam. ЬЬspumous adj. spumy adj.
(spumier, spumiest). [ME f. OF (e)spume or L spuma]
spumoni n. US a kind of ice-cream dessert. [It. spumone f. spuma
SPUME]
spun past and past part. of SPIN.
spunk n. 1 touchwood. 2 colloq. courage, mettle, spirit. 3 coarse
sl. semen. °Usually considered a taboo use. [16th c.: orig.
unkn.: cf. PUNK]
spur n. & v. --n. 1 a device with a small spike or a spiked wheel
worn on a rider's heel for urging a horse forward. 2 a stimulus
or incentive. 3 a spur-shaped thing, esp.: a a projection from
a mountain or mountain range. b a branch road or railway. c a
hard projection on a cock's leg. d a steel point fastened to
the leg of a gamecock. e a climbing-iron. f a small support
for ceramic ware in a kiln. 4 Bot. a a slender hollow
projection from part of a flower. b a short fruit-bearing
shoot. --v. (spurred, spurring) 1 tr. prick (a horse) with
spurs. 2 tr. a (often foll. by on) incite (a person) (spurred
him on to greater efforts; spurred her to try again). b
stimulate (interest etc.). 3 intr. (often foll. by on, forward)
ride a horse hard. 4 tr. (esp. as spurred adj.) provide (a
person, boots, a gamecock) with spurs. Ьon the spur of the
moment on a momentary impulse; impromptu. put (or set) spurs to
1 spur (a horse). 2 stimulate (resolution etc.). spur-gear =
spur-wheel. spur royal hist. a 15-shilling coin of James I
bearing a spurlike sun with rays. spur-wheel a cog-wheel with
radial teeth. ЬЬspurless adj. [OE spora, spura f. Gmc, rel. to
SPURN]
spurge n. any plant of the genus Euphorbia, exuding an acrid milky
juice once used medicinally as a purgative. Ьspurge laurel any
shrub of the genus Daphne, esp. D. laureola, with small yellow
flowers. [ME f. OF espurge f. espurgier f. L expurgare (as
EX-(1), PURGE)]
spurious adj. 1 not genuine, not being what it purports to be, not
proceeding from the pretended source (a spurious excuse). 2
having an outward similarity of form or function only. 3 (of
offspring) illegitimate. ЬЬspuriously adv. spuriousness n. [L
spurius false]
spurn v. & n. --v.tr. 1 reject with disdain; treat with contempt. 2
repel or thrust back with one's foot. --n. an act of spurning.
ЬЬspurner n. [OE spurnan, spornan, rel. to SPUR]
spurrier n. a spur-maker.
spurry n. (also spurrey) (pl. -ies or -eys) a slender plant of the
genus Spergula, esp. the corn-spurry, a white-flowered weed in
cornfields etc. [Du. spurrie, prob. rel. to med.L spergula]
spurt v. & n. --v. 1 (also spirt) a intr. gush out in a jet or
stream. b tr. cause (liquid etc.) to do this. 2 intr. make a
sudden effort. --n. 1 (also spirt) a sudden gushing out, a
jet. 2 a short sudden effort or increase of pace esp. in
racing. [16th c.: orig. unkn.]
sputnik n. each of a series of Russian artificial satellites launched
from 1957. [Russ., = fellow-traveller]
sputter v. & n. --v. 1 intr. emit spitting sounds, esp. when being
heated. 2 intr. (often foll. by at) speak in a hurried or
vehement fashion. 3 tr. emit with a spitting sound. 4 tr.
speak or utter (words, threats, a language, etc.) rapidly or
incoherently. 5 tr. Physics deposit (metal) by using fast ions
etc. to eject particles of it from a target. --n. a sputtering
sound, esp. sputtering speech. ЬЬsputterer n. [Du. sputteren
(imit.)]
sputum n. (pl. sputa) 1 saliva, spittle. 2 a mixture of saliva and
mucus expectorated from the respiratory tract, usu. a sign of
disease. [L, neut. past part. of spuere spit]
spy n. & v. --n. (pl. spies) 1 a person who secretly collects and
reports information on the activities, movements, etc., of an
enemy, competitor, etc. 2 a person who keeps watch on others,
esp. furtively. --v. (spies, spied) 1 tr. discern or make out,
esp. by careful observation (spied a house in the distance). 2
intr. (often foll. by on) act as a spy, keep a close and secret
watch. 3 intr. (often foll. by into) pry. ЬI spy a children's
game of guessing a visible object from the initial letter of its
name. spy-master colloq. the head of an organization of spies.
spy out explore or discover, esp. secretly. [ME f. OF espie
espying, espier espy f. Gmc]
squab n. & adj. --n. 1 a short fat person. 2 a young esp. unfledged
pigeon or other bird. 3 a a stuffed cushion. b Brit. the
padded back or side of a car-seat. 4 a sofa or ottoman. --adj.
short and fat, squat. Ьsquab-chick an unfledged bird. squab
pie 1 pigeon pie. 2 a pie of mutton, pork, onions, and apples.
[17th c.: orig. unkn.: cf. obs. quab shapeless thing, Sw. dial.
sqvabba fat woman]
squabble n. & v. --n. a petty or noisy quarrel. --v.intr. engage in a
squabble. ЬЬsquabbler n. [prob. imit.: cf. Sw. dial. sqvabbel
a dispute]
squabby adj. (squabbier, squabbiest) short and fat; squat.
squad n. 1 a small group of people sharing a task etc. 2 Mil. a
small number of men assembled for drill etc. 3 Sport a group of
players forming a team. 4 a (often in comb.) a specialized unit
within a police force (drug squad). b = flying squad. 5 a
group or class of people of a specified kind (the awkward
squad). Ьsquad car a police car having a radio link with
headquarters. [F escouade var. of escadre f. It. squadra
SQUARE]
squaddie n. (also squaddy) (pl. -ies) Brit. Mil. sl. 1 a recruit. 2
a private.
squadron n. 1 an organized body of persons. 2 a principal division of a
cavalry regiment or armoured formation, consisting of two
troops. 3 a detachment of warships employed on a particular
duty. 4 a unit of the Royal Air Force with 10 to 18 aircraft.
ЬSquadron Leader the commander of a squadron of the Royal Air
Force, the officer next below Wing Commander. [It. squadrone
(as SQUAD)]
squail n. 1 (in pl.) a game with small wooden discs propelled across a
table or board. 2 each of these discs. Ьsquail-board a board
used in squails. [19th c.: orig. unkn.: cf. dial. kayles
skittles]
squalid adj. 1 filthy, repulsively dirty. 2 mean or poor in
appearance. 3 wretched, sordid. ЬЬsqualidity n. squalidly
adv. squalidness n. [L squalidus f. squalere be rough or
dirty]
squall n. & v. --n. 1 a sudden or violent gust or storm of wind, esp.
with rain or snow or sleet. 2 a discordant cry; a scream (esp.
of a baby). 3 (esp. in pl.) trouble, difficulty. --v. 1 intr.
utter a squall; scream, cry out violently as in fear or pain. 2
tr. utter in a screaming or discordant voice. ЬЬsqually adj.
[prob. f. SQUEAL after BAWL]
squalor n. the state of being filthy or squalid. [L, as SQUALID]
squama n. (pl. squamae) 1 a scale on an animal or plant. 2 a thin
scalelike plate of bone. 3 a scalelike feather. ЬЬsquamate
adj. squamose adj. squamous adj. squamule n. [L squama]
squander v.tr. 1 spend (money, time, etc.) wastefully. 2 dissipate (a
fortune etc.) wastefully. ЬЬsquanderer n. [16th c.: orig.
unkn.]
square n., adj., adv., & v. --n. 1 an equilateral rectangle. 2 a an
object of this shape or approximately this shape. b a small
square area on a game-board. c a square scarf. d an academic
cap with a stiff square top; a mortarboard. 3 a an open (usu.
four-sided) area surrounded by buildings, esp. one planted with
trees etc. and surrounded by houses. b an open area at the
meeting of streets. c Cricket a closer-cut area at the centre
of a ground, any strip of which may be prepared as a wicket. d
an area within barracks etc. for drill. e US a block of
buildings bounded by four streets. 4 the product of a number
multiplied by itself (81 is the square of 9). 5 an L-shaped or
T-shaped instrument for obtaining or testing right angles. 6
sl. a conventional or old-fashioned person, one ignorant of or
opposed to current trends. 7 a square arrangement of letters,
figures, etc. 8 a body of infantry drawn up in rectangular
form. 9 a unit of 100 sq. ft. as a measure of flooring etc. 10
US a square meal (three squares a day). --adj. 1 having the
shape of a square. 2 having or in the form of a right angle
(table with square corners). 3 angular and not round; of square
section (has a square jaw). 4 designating a unit of measure
equal to the area of a square whose side is one of the unit
specified (square metre). 5 (often foll. by with) a level,
parallel. b on a proper footing; even, quits. 6 a (usu. foll.
by to) at right angles. b Cricket on a line through the stumps
at right angles to the wicket. 7 having the breadth more nearly
equal to the length or height than is usual (a man of square
frame). 8 properly arranged; in good order, settled (get things
square). 9 (also all square) a not in debt, with no money owed.
b having equal scores, esp. Golf having won the same number of
holes as one's opponent. c (of scores) equal. 10 fair and
honest (his dealings are not always quite square). 11
uncompromising, direct, thorough (was met with a square
refusal). 12 sl. conventional or old-fashioned,
unsophisticated, conservative (cf. sense 6 of n.). 13 Mus. (of
rhythm) simple, straightforward. --adv. 1 squarely (sat square
on his seat). 2 fairly, honestly (play square). --v. 1 tr.
make square or rectangular, give a rectangular cross-section to
(timber etc.). 2 tr. multiply (a number) by itself (3 squared
is 9). 3 tr. & intr. (usu. foll. by to, with) adjust; make or
be suitable or consistent; reconcile (the results do not square
with your conclusions). 4 tr. mark out in squares. 5 tr.
settle or pay (a bill etc.). 6 tr. place (one's shoulders etc.)
squarely facing forwards. 7 tr. colloq. a pay or bribe. b
secure the acquiescence etc. of (a person) in this way. 8 tr.
(also absol.) make the scores of (a match etc.) all square. 9
intr. assume the attitude of a boxer. 10 tr. Naut. a lay
(yards) at right angles with the keel making them at the same
time horizontal. b get (dead-eyes) horizontal. c get
(ratlines) horizontal and parallel to one another. Ьback to
square one colloq. back to the starting-point with no progress
made. get square with pay or compound with (a creditor). on
the square adj. 1 colloq. honest, fair. 2 having membership of
the Freemasons. --adv. colloq. honestly, fairly (can be
trusted to act on the square). out of square not at right
angles. perfect square = square number. square accounts with
see ACCOUNT. square away US tidy up. square-bashing Brit.
Mil. sl. drill on a barrack-square. square brackets brackets
of the form []. square-built of comparatively broad shape.
square the circle 1 construct a square equal in area to a given
circle (a problem incapable of a purely geometrical solution).
2 do what is impossible. square dance a dance with usu. four
couples facing inwards from four sides. square deal a fair
bargain, fair treatment. squared paper paper marked out in
squares, esp. for plotting graphs. square-eyed joc. affected
by or given to excessive viewing of television. square leg
Cricket 1 the fielding position at some distance on the
batsman's leg side and nearly opposite the stumps. 2 a fielder
in this position. square meal a substantial and satisfying
meal. square measure measure expressed in square units. square
number the square of an integer e.g. 1, 4, 9, 16. square off 1
US assume the attitude of a boxer. 2 Austral. placate or
conciliate. 3 mark out in squares. square peg in a round hole
see PEG. square piano an early type of piano, small and oblong
in shape. square-rigged with the principal sails at right
angles to the length of the ship and extended by horizontal
yards slung to the mast by the middle (opp. fore-and-aft
rigged). square root the number that multiplied by itself gives
a specified number (3 is the square root of 9). square sail a
four-cornered sail extended on a yard slung to the mast by the
middle. square-shouldered with broad and not sloping shoulders
(cf. round-shouldered). square-toed 1 (of shoes or boots)
having square toes. 2 wearing such shoes or boots. 3 formal,
prim. square up settle an account etc. square up to 1 move
towards (a person) in a fighting attitude. 2 face and tackle (a
difficulty etc.) resolutely. square wave Physics a wave with
periodic sudden alternations between only two values of
quantity. ЬЬsquarely adv. squareness n. squarer n. squarish
adj. [ME f. OF esquare, esquarr‚, esquarrer, ult. f. EX-(1) +
L quadra square]
squarial n. a square satellite dish. [SQUARE + AERIAL]
squash(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. crush or squeeze flat or into pulp. 2
intr. (often foll. by into) make one's way by squeezing. 3 tr.
pack tight, crowd. 4 tr. a silence (a person) with a crushing
retort etc. b dismiss (a proposal etc.). c quash (a
rebellion). --n. 1 a crowd; a crowded assembly. 2 a sound of
or as of something being squashed, or of a soft body falling. 3
Brit. a concentrated drink made of crushed fruit etc., diluted
with water. 4 (in full squash rackets) a game played with
rackets and a small fairly soft ball against the walls of a
closed court. 5 a squashed thing or mass. Ьsquash tennis US a
game similar to squash, played with a lawn-tennis ball.
ЬЬsquashy adj. (squashier, squashiest). squashily adv.
squashiness n. [alt. of QUASH]
squash(2) n. (pl. same or squashes) 1 any of various trailing plants of
the genus Cucurbita, esp. C. maxima, C. moschata, and C. pepo,
having pumpkin-like fruits. 2 the fruit of these cooked and
eaten as a vegetable. [obs. (i)squoutersquash f. Narraganset
asquutasquash f. asq uncooked + squash green]
squat v., adj., & n. --v. (squatted, squatting) 1 intr. a crouch
with the hams resting on the backs of the heels. b sit on the
ground etc. with the knees drawn up and the heels close to or
touching the hams. 2 tr. put (a person) into a squatting
position. 3 intr. colloq. sit down. 4 a intr. act as a
squatter. b tr. occupy (a building) as a squatter. 5 intr. (of
an animal) crouch close to the ground. --adj. (squatter,
squattest) 1 (of a person etc.) short and thick, dumpy. 2 in a
squatting posture. --n. 1 a squatting posture. 2 a a place
occupied by a squatter or squatters. b being a squatter.
ЬЬsquatly adv. squatness n. [ME f. OF esquatir flatten f. es-
EX-(1) + quatir press down, crouch ult. f. L coactus past part.
of cogere compel: see COGENT]
squatter n. 1 a person who takes unauthorized possession of unoccupied
premises. 2 Austral. a a sheep-farmer esp. on a large scale.
b hist. a person who gets the right of pasturage from the
government on easy terms. 3 a person who settles on new esp.
public land without title. 4 a person who squats.
squaw n. a N. American Indian woman or wife. Ьsquaw-man a White
married to a squaw. squaw winter (in N. America) a brief wintry
spell before an Indian Summer. [Narraganset squaws,
Massachusetts squaw woman]
squawk n. & v. --n. 1 a loud harsh cry esp. of a bird. 2 a
complaint. --v.intr. utter a squawk. Ьsquawk-box colloq. a
loudspeaker or intercom. ЬЬsquawker n. [imit.]
squeak n. & v. --n. 1 a a short shrill cry as of a mouse. b a slight
high-pitched sound as of an unoiled hinge. 2 (also narrow
squeak) a narrow escape, a success barely attained. --v. 1
intr. make a squeak. 2 tr. utter (words) shrilly. 3 intr.
(foll. by by, through) colloq. pass narrowly. 4 intr. sl. turn
informer. [ME, imit.: cf. SQUEAL, SHRIEK, and Sw. skv„ka
croak]
squeaker n. 1 a person or thing that squeaks. 2 a young bird, esp. a
pigeon.
squeaky adj. (squeakier, squeakiest) making a squeaking sound.
Ьsqueaky clean 1 completely clean. 2 above criticism; beyond
reproach. ЬЬsqueakily adv. squeakiness n.
squeal n. & v. --n. a prolonged shrill sound, esp. a cry of a child or
a pig. --v. 1 intr. make a squeal. 2 tr. utter (words) with a
squeal. 3 intr. sl. turn informer. 4 intr. sl. protest
loudly or excitedly. ЬЬsquealer n. [ME, imit.]
squeamish adj. 1 easily nauseated or disgusted. 2 fastidious or
overscrupulous in questions of propriety, honesty, etc.
ЬЬsqueamishly adv. squeamishness n. [ME var. of squeamous (now
dial.), f. AF escoymos, of unkn. orig.]
squeegee n. & v. --n. 1 a rubber-edged implement set on a long handle
and used for cleaning windows, etc. 2 a small similar
instrument or roller used in photography. --v.tr. (squeegees,
squeegeed) treat with a squeegee. [squeege, strengthened form
of SQUEEZE]
squeeze v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a exert pressure on from opposite or all
sides, esp. in order to extract moisture or reduce size. b
compress with one's hand or between two bodies. c reduce the
size of or alter the shape of by squeezing. 2 tr. (often foll.
by out) extract (moisture) by squeezing. 3 a tr. force (a
person or thing) into or through a small or narrow space. b
intr. make one's way by squeezing. c tr. make (one's way) by
squeezing. 4 tr. a harass by exactions; extort money etc.
from. b constrain; bring pressure to bear on. c (usu. foll. by
out of) obtain (money etc.) by extortion, entreaty, etc. d
Bridge subject (a player) to a squeeze. 5 tr. press (a person's
hand) with one's own as a sign of sympathy, affection, etc. 6
tr. (often foll. by out) produce with effort (squeezed out a
tear). --n. 1 an instance of squeezing; the state of being
squeezed. 2 Brit. a close embrace. 3 a crowd or crowded state;
a crush. 4 a small quantity produced by squeezing (a squeeze of
lemon). 5 a sum of money extorted or exacted, esp. an illicit
commission. 6 Econ. a restriction on borrowing, investment,
etc., in a financial crisis. 7 an impression of a coin etc.
taken by pressing damp paper, wax, etc., against it. 8 (in full
squeeze play) a Bridge leading winning cards until an opponent
is forced to discard an important card. b Baseball hitting a
ball short to the infield to enable a runner on third base to
start for home as soon as the ball is pitched. Ьput the squeeze
on colloq. coerce or pressure (a person). squeeze bottle a
flexible container whose contents are extracted by squeezing it.
squeeze-box sl. an accordion or concertina. ЬЬsqueezable adj.
squeezer n. [earlier squise, intensive of obs. queise, of
unkn. orig.]
squelch v. & n. --v. 1 intr. a make a sucking sound as of treading in
thick mud. b move with a squelching sound. 2 tr. a
disconcert, silence. b stamp on, crush flat, put an end to.
--n. an instance of squelching. ЬЬsquelcher n. squelchy adj.
[imit.]
squib n. & v. --n. 1 a small firework burning with a hissing sound
and usu. with a final explosion. 2 a short satirical
composition, a lampoon. --v. (squibbed, squibbing) 1 tr. US
Football kick (the ball) a comparatively short distance on a
kick-off; execute (a kick) in this way. 2 archaic a intr. write
lampoons. b tr. lampoon. [16th c.: orig. unkn.: perh. imit.]
squid n. & v. --n. 1 any of various ten-armed cephalopods, esp. of
the genus Loligo, used as bait or food. 2 artificial bait for
fish imitating a squid in form. --v.intr. (squidded,
squidding) fish with squid as bait. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
squiggle n. & v. --n. a short curly line, esp. in handwriting or
doodling. --v. 1 tr. write in a squiggly manner; scrawl. 2
intr. wriggle, squirm. ЬЬsquiggly adj. [imit.]
squill n. 1 any bulbous plant of the genus Scilla, esp. S.
autumnalis. 2 a seashore plant, Urginea maritima, having bulbs
used in diuretic and purgative preparations. Also called sea
onion. 3 any crustacean of the genus Squilla. [ME f. L
squilla, scilla f. Gk skilla]
squinch n. a straight or arched structure across an interior angle of a
square tower to carry a superstructure, e.g. a dome. [var. of
obs. scunch, abbr. of SCUNCHEON]
squint v., n., & adj. --v. 1 intr. have the eyes turned in different
directions, have a squint. 2 intr. (often foll. by at) look
obliquely or with half-closed eyes. 3 tr. close (one's eyes)
quickly, hold (one's eyes) half-shut. --n. 1 = STRABISMUS. 2
a stealthy or sidelong glance. 3 colloq. a glance or look (had
a squint at it). 4 an oblique opening through the wall of a
church affording a view of the altar. 5 a leaning or
inclination towards a particular object or aim. --adj. 1
squinting. 2 looking different ways. Ьsquint-eyed 1 squinting.
2 malignant, ill-willed. ЬЬsquinter n. squinty adj. [ASQUINT:
(adj.) perh. f. squint-eyed f. obs. squint (adv.) f. ASQUINT]
squire n. & v. --n. 1 a country gentleman, esp. the chief landowner
in a country district. 2 hist. a knight's attendant. 3 Brit.
colloq. a jocular form of address to a man. 4 US a magistrate
or lawyer. 5 Austral. a young snapper fish. --v.tr. (of a man)
attend upon or escort (a woman). ЬЬsquiredom n. squirehood n.
squirelet n. squireling n. squirely adj. squireship n. [ME
f. OF esquier ESQUIRE]
squirearch
n. a member of the squirearchy. ЬЬsquirearchical adj. (also
squirarchical). [back-form. f. SQUIREARCHY, after MONARCH]
squirearchy
n. (also squirarchy) (pl. -ies) landowners collectively, esp.
as a class having political or social influence; a class or body
of squires. [SQUIRE, after HIERARCHY etc.]
squireen n. Brit. the owner of a small landed property esp. in Ireland.
squirl n. colloq. a flourish or twirl, esp. in handwriting. [perh.
f. SQUIGGLE + TWIRL or WHIRL]
squirm v. & n. --v.intr. 1 wriggle, writhe. 2 show or feel
embarrassment or discomfiture. --n. a squirming movement.
ЬЬsquirmer n. squirmy adj. (squirmier, squirmiest). [imit.,
prob. assoc. with WORM]
squirrel n. & v. --n. 1 any rodent of the family Sciuridae, e.g. the
red squirrel, grey squirrel, etc., often of arboreal habits,
with a bushy tail arching over its back, and pointed ears. 2
the fur of this animal. 3 a person who hoards objects, food,
etc. --v. (squirrelled, squirrelling; US squirreled,
squirreling) 1 tr. (often foll. by away) hoard (objects, food,
time, etc.) (squirrelled it away in the cupboard). 2 intr.
(often foll. by around) bustle about. Ьsquirrel cage 1 a small
cage containing a revolving cylinder like a treadmill, on which
a captive squirrel may exercise. 2 a form of rotor used in
small electric motors, resembling the cylinder of a squirrel
cage. 3 a monotonous or repetitive way of life. squirrel (or
squirrel-tail) grass a grass, Hordeum jubatum, with bushy
spikelets. squirrel-monkey a small yellow-haired monkey,
Saimiri sciureus, native to S. America. [ME f. AF esquirel, OF
esquireul, ult. f. L sciurus f. Gk skiouros f. skia shade +
oura tail]
squirrelly
adj. 1 like a squirrel. 2 a inclined to bustle about. b (of a
person) unpredictable, nervous, demented.
squirt v. & n. --v. 1 tr. eject (liquid or powder) in a jet as from a
syringe. 2 intr. (of liquid or powder) be discharged in this
way. 3 tr. splash with liquid or powder ejected by squirting.
--n. 1 a a jet of water etc. b a small quantity produced by
squirting. 2 a a syringe. b (in full squirt-gun) a kind of toy
syringe. 3 colloq. an insignificant but presumptuous person.
ЬЬsquirter n. [ME, imit.]
squish n. & v. --n. a slight squelching sound. --v. 1 intr. move
with a squish. 2 tr. colloq. squash, squeeze. ЬЬsquishy adj.
(squishier, squishiest). [imit.]
squit n. Brit. 1 sl. a small or insignificant person. 2 dial.
nonsense. [cf. dial. squirt insignificant person, and squit to
squirt]
squitch n. couch grass. [alt. f. QUITCH]
squiz n. Austral. & NZ sl. a look or glance. [prob. f. QUIZ(2)]
Sri Lankan
n. & adj. --n. 1 a native or national of Sri Lanka (formerly
Ceylon), an island in the Indian Ocean. 2 a person of Sri
Lankan descent. --adj. of or relating to Sri Lanka or its
people.
st. abbr. 1 stone (in weight). 2 Cricket stumped by.
-st var. of -EST(2).
Sta. abbr. Station.
stab v. & n. --v. (stabbed, stabbing) 1 tr. pierce or wound with a
(usu. short) pointed tool or weapon e.g. a knife or dagger. 2
intr. (often foll. by at) aim a blow with such a weapon. 3
intr. cause a sensation like being stabbed (stabbing pain). 4
tr. hurt or distress (a person, feelings, conscience, etc.). 5
intr. (foll. by at) aim a blow at a person's reputation, etc.
--n. 1 a an instance of stabbing. b a blow or thrust with a
knife etc. 2 a wound made in this way. 3 a blow or pain
inflicted on a person's feelings. 4 colloq. an attempt, a try.
Ьstab in the back n. a treacherous or slanderous attack.
--v.tr. slander or betray. ЬЬstabber n. [ME: cf. dial. stob
in sense 1 of v.]
Stabat Mater
n. 1 a Latin hymn on the suffering of the Virgin Mary at the
Crucifixion. 2 a musical setting for this. [the opening words,
L Stabat mater dolorosa 'Stood the mother, full of grief']
stabile n. a rigid, free-standing abstract sculpture or structure of
wire, sheet metal, etc. [L stabilis STABLE(1), after MOBILE]
stability n. the quality or state of being stable. [ME f. OF stablet‚ f.
L stabilitas f. stabilis STABLE(1)]
stabilize v.tr. & intr. (also -ise) make or become stable.
ЬЬstabilization n.
stabilizer
n. (also -iser) a device or substance used to keep something
stable, esp.: 1 a gyroscope device to prevent rolling of a ship.
2 US the horizontal tailplane of an aircraft. 3 (in pl.) a pair
of small wheels fitted to the rear wheel of a child's bicycle.
stable(1) adj. (stabler, stablest) 1 firmly fixed or established; not
easily adjusted, destroyed, or altered (a stable structure; a
stable government). 2 firm, resolute; not wavering or fickle (a
stable and steadfast friend). 3 Chem. (of a compound) not
readily decomposing. 4 Physics (of an isotope) not subject to
radioactive decay. Ьstable equilibrium a state in which a body
when disturbed tends to return to equilibrium. ЬЬstableness n.
stably adv. [ME f. AF stable, OF estable f. L stabilis f.
stare stand]
stable(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a building set apart and adapted for keeping
horses. 2 an establishment where racehorses are kept and
trained. 3 the racehorses of a particular stable. 4 persons,
products, etc., having a common origin or affiliation. 5 such
an origin or affiliation. --v.tr. put or keep (a horse) in a
stable. Ьstable-boy a boy employed in a stable.
stable-companion (or -mate) 1 a horse of the same stable. 2 a
member of the same organization. stable-girl a girl employed in
a stable. stable-lad a person employed in a stable.
ЬЬstableful n. (pl. -fuls). [ME f. OF estable f. L stabulum
f. stare stand]
stableman n. (pl. -men) a person employed in a stable.
stabling n. accommodation for horses.
stablish v.tr. archaic fix firmly; establish; set up. [var. of
ESTABLISH]
staccato adv., adj., & n. esp. Mus. --adv. & adj. with each sound or
note sharply detached or separated from the others (cf. LEGATO,
TENUTO). --n. (pl. -os) 1 a staccato passage in music etc. 2
staccato delivery or presentation. Ьstaccato mark a dot or
stroke above or below a note, indicating that it is to be played
staccato. [It., past part. of staccare = distaccare DETACH]
stack n. & v. --n. 1 a pile or heap, esp. in orderly arrangement. 2
a circular or rectangular pile of hay, straw, etc., or of grain
in sheaf, often with a sloping thatched top, a rick. 3 colloq.
a large quantity (a stack of work; has stacks of money). 4 a =
chimney-stack. b = SMOKESTACK. c a tall factory chimney. 5 a
stacked group of aircraft. 6 (also stack-room) a part of a
library where books are compactly stored, esp. one to which the
public does not have direct access. 7 Brit. a high detached
rock esp. off the coast of Scotland and the Orkneys. 8 a
pyramidal group of rifles, a pile. 9 Computing a set of storage
locations which store data in such a way that the most recently
stored item is the first to be retrieved. 10 Brit. a measure
for a pile of wood of 108 cu. ft. (30.1 cubic metres). --v.tr.
1 pile in a stack or stacks. 2 a arrange (cards) secretly for
cheating. b manipulate (circumstances etc.) to one's advantage.
3 cause (aircraft) to fly round the same point at different
levels while waiting to land at an airport. Ьstack arms hist. =
pile arms. stack up US colloq. present oneself, measure up.
stack-yard an enclosure for stacks of hay, straw, etc.
ЬЬstackable adj. stacker n. [ME f. ON stakkr haystack f. Gmc]
stacte n. a sweet spice used by the ancient Jews in making incense.
[ME f. L f. Gk stakte f. stazo drip]
staddle n. a platform or framework supporting a rick etc.
Ьstaddle-stone a stone supporting a staddle or rick etc. [OE
stathol base f. Gmc, rel. to STAND]
stadium n. (pl. stadiums) 1 an athletic or sports ground with tiers of
seats for spectators. 2 (pl. stadiums or stadia) Antiq. a a
course for a foot-race or chariot-race. b a measure of length,
about 185 metres. 3 a stage or period of development etc. [ME
f. L f. Gk stadion]
stadtholder
n. (also stadholder) hist. 1 the chief magistrate of the
United Provinces of the Netherlands. 2 the viceroy or governor
of a province or town in the Netherlands. ЬЬstadtholdership n.
[Du. stadhouder deputy f. stad STEAD + houder HOLDER, after
med.L LOCUM TENENS]
staff(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a a stick or pole for use in walking or
climbing or as a weapon. b a stick or pole as a sign of office
or authority. c a person or thing that supports or sustains. d
a flagstaff. e Surveying a rod for measuring distances,
heights, etc. f a token given to an engine-driver on a
single-track railway as authority to proceed over a given
section of line. g a spindle in a watch. 2 a a body of persons
employed in a business etc. (editorial staff of a newspaper). b
those in authority within an organization, esp. the teachers in
a school. c Mil. etc. a body of officers assisting an officer
in high command and concerned with an army, regiment, fleet, or
air force as a whole (general staff). d (usu. Staff) Mil. =
staff sergeant. 3 (pl. staffs or staves) Mus. a set of usu.
five parallel lines on any one or between any adjacent two of
which a note is placed to indicate its pitch. --v.tr. provide
(an institution etc.) with staff. Ьstaff college Brit. Mil.
etc. a college at which officers are trained for staff duties.
staff notation Mus. notation by means of a staff, esp. as
distinct from tonic sol-fa. staff nurse Brit. a nurse ranking
just below a sister. staff officer Mil. an officer serving on
the staff of an army etc. staff sergeant 1 Brit. the senior
sergeant of a non-infantry company. 2 US a non-commissioned
officer ranking just above sergeant. ЬЬstaffed adj. (also in
comb.). [OE st‘f f. Gmc]
staff(2) n. a mixture of plaster of Paris, cement, etc., as a temporary
building-material. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
staffage n. accessory items in a painting, esp. figures or animals in a
landscape picture. [G f. staffieren decorate, perh. f. OF
estoffer: see STUFF]
staffer n. US a member of a staff, esp. of a newspaper.
Staffs. abbr. Staffordshire.
stag n. & v. --n. 1 an adult male deer, esp. one with a set of
antlers. 2 Brit. Stock Exch. a person who applies for shares
of a new issue with a view to selling at once for a profit. 3 a
man who attends a social gathering unaccompanied by a woman.
--v.tr. (stagged, stagging) Brit. Stock Exch. deal in (shares)
as a stag. Ьstag beetle any beetle of the family Lucanidae, the
male of which has large branched mandibles resembling a stag's
antlers. stag- (or stag's-) horn 1 the horn of a stag, used to
make knife-handles, snuff-boxes, etc. 2 any of various ferns,
esp. of the genus Platycerium, having fronds like antlers.
stag-night (or -party) an all-male celebration, esp. in honour
of a man about to marry. [ME f. OF stacga, stagga (unrecorded):
cf. docga dog, frogga frog, etc., and ON staggr, staggi male
bird]
stage n. & v. --n. 1 a point or period in a process or development
(reached a critical stage; is in the larval stage). 2 a a
raised floor or platform, esp. one on which plays etc. are
performed before an audience. b (prec. by the) the acting or
theatrical profession, dramatic art or literature, the drama. c
the scene of action (the stage of politics). d = landing-stage.
3 a a regular stopping-place on a route. b the distance between
two stopping-places. c Brit. = fare-stage. 4 Astronaut. a
section of a rocket with a separate engine, jettisoned when its
propellant is exhausted. 5 Geol. a range of strata forming a
subdivision of a series. 6 Electronics a single amplifying
transistor or valve with the associated equipment. 7 the
surface on which an object is placed for inspection through a
microscope. --v.tr. 1 present (a play etc.) on stage. 2
arrange the occurrence of (staged a demonstration; staged a
comeback). Ьgo on the stage become an actor. hold the stage
dominate a conversation etc. stage direction an instruction in
the text of a play as to the movement, position, tone, etc., of
an actor, or sound effects etc. stage door an actors' and
workmen's entrance from the street to a theatre behind the
stage. stage effect 1 an effect produced in acting or on the
stage. 2 an artificial or theatrical effect produced in real
life. stage fright nervousness on facing an audience esp. for
the first time. stage-hand a person handling scenery etc.
during a performance on stage. stage left (or right) on the
left (or right) side of the stage, facing the audience.
stage-manage 1 be the stage-manager of. 2 arrange and control
for effect. stage-management the job or craft of a
stage-manager. stage-manager the person responsible for
lighting and other mechanical arrangements for a play etc.
stage name a name assumed for professional purposes by an actor.
stage play a play performed on stage rather than broadcast etc.
stage rights exclusive rights to perform a particular play.
stage-struck filled with an inordinate desire to go on the
stage. stage whisper 1 an aside. 2 a loud whisper meant to be
heard by others than the person addressed. ЬЬstageable adj.
stageability n. stager n. [ME f. OF estage dwelling ult. f. L
stare stand]
stagecoach
n. hist. a large closed horse-drawn coach running regularly by
stages between two places.
stagecraft
n. skill or experience in writing or staging plays.
stagey var. of STAGY.
stagflation
n. Econ. a state of inflation without a corresponding increase
of demand and employment. [STAGNATION (as STAGNATE) +
INFLATION]
stagger v. & n. --v. 1 a intr. walk unsteadily, totter. b tr. cause
to totter (was staggered by the blow). 2 a tr. shock, confuse;
cause to hesitate or waver (the question staggered them; they
were staggered at the suggestion). b intr. hesitate; waver in
purpose. 3 tr. arrange (events, hours of work, etc.) so that
they do not coincide. 4 tr. arrange (objects) so that they are
not in line, esp.: a arrange (a road-crossing) so that the
side-roads are not in line. b set (the spokes of a wheel) to
incline alternately to right and left. --n. 1 a tottering
movement. 2 (in pl.) a a disease of the brain and spinal cord
esp. in horses and cattle, causing staggering. b giddiness. 3
an overhanging or slantwise or zigzag arrangement of like parts
in a structure etc. ЬЬstaggerer n. [alt. of ME stacker (now
dial.) f. ON stakra frequent. of staka push, stagger]
staggering
adj. 1 astonishing, bewildering. 2 that staggers.
ЬЬstaggeringly adv.
staghound n. 1 any large dog of a breed used for hunting deer by sight or
scent. 2 this breed.
staging n. 1 the presentation of a play etc. 2 a a platform or support
or scaffolding, esp. temporary. b shelves for plants in a
greenhouse. Ьstaging area an intermediate assembly point for
troops in transit. staging post a regular stopping-place, esp.
on an air route.
stagnant adj. 1 (of liquid) motionless, having no current. 2 (of life,
action, the mind, business, a person) showing no activity, dull,
sluggish. ЬЬstagnancy n. stagnantly adv. [L stagnare
stagnant- f. stagnum pool]
stagnate v.intr. be or become stagnant. ЬЬstagnation n.
staid adj. of quiet and steady character; sedate. ЬЬstaidly adv.
staidness n. [= stayed, past part. of STAY(1)]
stain v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. discolour or be discoloured by the
action of liquid sinking in. 2 tr. sully, blemish, spoil,
damage (a reputation, character, etc.). 3 tr. colour (wood,
glass, etc.) by a process other than painting or covering the
surface. 4 tr. impregnate (a specimen) for microscopic
examination with colouring matter that makes the structure
visible by being deposited in some parts more than in others. 5
tr. print colours on (wallpaper). --n. 1 a discoloration, a
spot or mark caused esp. by contact with foreign matter and not
easily removed (a cloth covered with tea-stains). 2 a a blot or
blemish. b damage to a reputation etc. (a stain on one's
character). 3 a substance used in staining. Ьstained glass
dyed or coloured glass, esp. in a lead framework in a window
(also (with hyphen) attrib.: stained-glass window). ЬЬstainable
adj. stainer n. [ME f. distain f. OF desteindre desteign- (as
DIS-, TINGE)]
stainless adj. 1 (esp. of a reputation) without stains. 2 not liable to
stain. Ьstainless steel chrome steel not liable to rust or
tarnish under ordinary conditions.
stair n. 1 each of a set of fixed indoor steps (on the top stair but
one). 2 (usu. in pl.) a set of indoor steps (passed him on the
stairs; down a winding stair). 3 (in pl.) a landing-stage.
Ьstair-rod a rod for securing a carpet in the angle between two
steps. [OE st‘ger f. Gmc]
staircase n. 1 a flight of stairs and the supporting structure. 2 a part
of a building containing a staircase.
stairhead n. a level space at the top of stairs.
stairway n. 1 a flight of stairs, a staircase. 2 the way up this.
stairwell n. the shaft in which a staircase is built.
staithe n. Brit. a wharf, esp. a waterside coal depot equipped for
loading vessels. [ME f. ON st”th landing-stage f. Gmc, rel. to
STAND]
stake(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a stout stick or post sharpened at one end and
driven into the ground as a support, boundary mark, etc. 2
hist. a the post to which a person was tied to be burnt alive.
b (prec. by the) death by burning as a punishment (was condemned
to the stake). 3 a long vertical rod in basket-making. 4 a
metalworker's small anvil fixed on a bench by a pointed prop.
--v.tr. 1 fasten, secure, or support with a stake or stakes. 2
(foll. by off, out) mark off (an area) with stakes. 3 state or
establish (a claim). Ьpull (or pull up) stakes depart; go to
live elsewhere. stake-boat a boat anchored to mark the course
for a boat race etc. stake-body (pl. -ies) US a body for a
lorry etc. having a flat open platform with removable posts
along the sides. stake-net a fishing-net hung on stakes. stake
out colloq. 1 place under surveillance. 2 place (a person) to
maintain surveillance. stake-out n. esp. US colloq. a period
of surveillance. [OE staca f. WG, rel. to STICK(2)]
stake(2) n. & v. --n. 1 a sum of money etc. wagered on an event, esp.
deposited with a stakeholder. 2 (often foll. by in) an interest
or concern, esp. financial. 3 (in pl.) a money offered as a
prize esp. in a horse-race. b such a race (maiden stakes; trial
stakes). --v.tr. 1 a wager (staked њ5 on the next race). b
risk (staked everything on convincing him). 2 US colloq. give
financial or other support to. Ьat stake 1 risked, to be won or
lost (life itself is at stake). 2 at issue, in question.
ЬЬstaker n. [16th c.: perh. f. STAKE(1)]
stakeholder
n. an independent party with whom each of those who make a
wager deposits the money etc. wagered.
Stakhanovite
n. a worker (esp. in the USSR) who increases his output to an
exceptional extent, and so gains special awards. ЬЬStakhanovism
n. Stakhanovist n. [A. G. Stakhanov, Russian coal-miner d.
1977]
stalactite
n. a deposit of calcium carbonate having the shape of a large
icicle, formed by the trickling of water from the roof of a
cave, cliff overhang, etc. ЬЬstalactic adj. stalactiform adj.
stalactitic adj. [mod.L stalactites f. Gk stalaktos dripping f.
stalasso drip]
Stalag n. hist. a German prison camp, esp. for non-commissioned
officers and privates. [G f. Stamm base, main stock, Lager
camp]
stalagmite
n. a deposit of calcium carbonate formed by the dripping of
water into the shape of a large inverted icicle rising from the
floor of a cave etc., often uniting with a stalactite.
ЬЬstalagmitic adj. [mod.L stalagmites f. Gk stalagma a drop f.
stalasso (as STALACTITE)]
stale(1) adj. & v. --adj. (staler, stalest) 1 a not fresh, not quite
new (stale bread is best for toast). b musty, insipid, or
otherwise the worse for age or use. 2 trite or unoriginal (a
stale joke; stale news). 3 (of an athlete or other performer)
having ability impaired by excessive exertion or practice. 4
Law (esp. of a claim) having been left dormant for an
unreasonably long time. --v.tr. & intr. make or become stale.
ЬЬstalely adv. staleness n. [ME, prob. f. AF & OF f. estaler
halt: cf. STALL(1)]
stale(2) n. & v. --n. the urine of horses and cattle. --v.intr. (esp.
of horses and cattle) urinate. [ME, perh. f. OF estaler adopt a
position (cf. STALE(1))]
stalemate n. & v. --n. 1 Chess a position counting as a draw, in which a
player is not in check but cannot move except into check. 2 a
deadlock or drawn contest. --v.tr. 1 Chess bring (a player) to
a stalemate. 2 bring to a standstill. [obs. stale (f. AF
estale f. estaler be placed: cf. STALE(1)) + MATE(2)]
Stalinism n. 1 the policies followed by Stalin in the government of the
USSR, esp. centralization, totalitarianism, and the pursuit of
socialism. 2 any rigid centralized authoritarian form of
socialism. ЬЬStalinist n. [J. V. Stalin (Dzhugashvili),
Soviet statesman d. 1953]
stalk(1) n. 1 the main stem of a herbaceous plant. 2 the slender
attachment or support of a leaf, flower, fruit, etc. 3 a
similar support for an organ etc. in an animal. 4 a slender
support or linking shaft in a machine, object, etc., e.g. the
stem of a wineglass. 5 the tall chimney of a factory etc.
Ьstalk-eyed (of crabs, snails, etc.) having the eyes mounted on
stalks. ЬЬstalked adj. (also in comb.). stalkless adj.
stalklet n. stalklike adj. stalky adj. [ME stalke, prob.
dimin. of (now dial.) stale rung of a ladder, long handle, f.
OE stalu]
stalk(2) v. & n. --v. 1 a tr. pursue or approach (game or an enemy)
stealthily. b intr. steal up to game under cover. 2 intr.
stride, walk in a stately or haughty manner. --n. 1 the
stalking of game. 2 an imposing gait. Ьstalking-horse 1 a
horse behind which a hunter is concealed. 2 a pretext
concealing one's real intentions or actions. ЬЬstalker n. (also
in comb.). [OE f. Gmc, rel. to STEAL]
stall(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a a trader's stand or booth in a market etc.,
or out of doors. b a compartment in a building for the sale of
goods. c a table in this on which goods are exposed. 2 a a
stable or cowhouse. b a compartment for one animal in this. 3
a a fixed seat in the choir or chancel of a church, more or less
enclosed at the back and sides and often canopied, esp. one
appropriated to a clergyman (canon's stall; dean's stall). b
the office or dignity of a canon etc. 4 (usu. in pl.) Brit.
each of a set of seats in a theatre, usu. on the ground floor.
5 a a compartment for one person in a shower-bath, lavatory,
etc. b a compartment for one horse at the start of a race. 6 a
the stalling of an engine or aircraft. b the condition
resulting from this. 7 a receptacle for one object
(finger-stall). --v. 1 a intr. (of a motor vehicle or its
engine) stop because of an overload on the engine or an
inadequate supply of fuel to it. b intr. (of an aircraft or its
pilot) reach a condition where the speed is too low to allow
effective operation of the controls. c tr. cause (an engine or
vehicle or aircraft) to stall. 2 tr. a put or keep (cattle
etc.) in a stall or stalls esp. for fattening (a stalled ox). b
furnish (a stable etc.) with stalls. 3 intr. a (of a horse or
cart) stick fast as in mud or snow. b US be snowbound.
Ьstall-feed fatten (cattle) in a stall. [OE steall f. Gmc, rel.
to STAND: partly f. OF estal f. Frank.]
stall(2) v. & n. --v. 1 intr. play for time when being questioned etc.
2 tr. delay, obstruct, block. --n. an instance of stalling.
Ьstall off evade or deceive. [stall pickpocket's confederate,
orig. 'decoy' f. AF estal(e), prob. rel. to STALL(1)]
stallage n. Brit. 1 space for a stall or stalls in a market etc. 2 the
rent for such a stall. 3 the right to erect such a stall. [ME
f. OF estalage f. estal STALL(1)]
stallholder
n. a person in charge of a stall at a market etc.
stallion n. an uncastrated adult male horse, esp. one kept for breeding.
[ME f. OF estalon ult. f. a Gmc root rel. to STALL(1)]
stalwart adj. & n. --adj. 1 strongly built, sturdy. 2 courageous,
resolute, determined (stalwart supporters). --n. a stalwart
person, esp. a loyal uncompromising partisan. ЬЬstalwartly adv.
stalwartness n. [Sc. var. of obs. stalworth f. OE st‘lwierthe
f. st‘l place, WORTH]
stamen n. the male fertilizing organ of a flowering plant, including
the anther containing pollen. ЬЬstaminiferous adj. [L stamen
staminis warp in an upright loom, thread]
stamina n. the ability to endure prolonged physical or mental strain;
staying power, power of endurance. [L, pl. of STAMEN in sense
'warp, threads spun by the Fates']
staminate adj. (of a plant) having stamens, esp. stamens but not pistils.
stammer v. & n. --v. 1 intr. speak (habitually, or on occasion from
embarrassment etc.) with halting articulation, esp. with pauses
or rapid repetitions of the same syllable. 2 tr. (often foll.
by out) utter (words) in this way (stammered out an excuse).
--n. 1 a tendency to stammer. 2 an instance of stammering.
ЬЬstammerer n. stammeringly adv. [OE stamerian f. WG]
stamp v. & n. --v. 1 a tr. bring down (one's foot) heavily on the
ground etc. b tr. crush, flatten, or bring into a specified
state in this way (stamped down the earth round the plant). c
intr. bring down one's foot heavily; walk with heavy steps. 2
tr. a impress (a pattern, mark, etc.) on metal, paper, butter,
etc., with a die or similar instrument of metal, wood, rubber,
etc. b impress (a surface) with a pattern etc. in this way. 3
tr. affix a postage or other stamp to (an envelope or document).
4 tr. assign a specific character to; characterize; mark out
(stamps the story an invention). 5 tr. crush or pulverize (ore
etc.). --n. 1 an instrument for stamping a pattern or mark. 2
a a mark or pattern made by this. b the impression of an
official mark required to be made for revenue purposes on deeds,
bills of exchange, etc., as evidence of payment of tax. 3 a
small adhesive piece of paper indicating that a price, fee, or
tax has been paid, esp. a postage stamp. 4 a mark impressed on
or label etc. affixed to a commodity as evidence of quality etc.
5 a a heavy downward blow with the foot. b the sound of this.
6 a a characteristic mark or impress (bears the stamp of
genius). b character, kind (avoid people of that stamp). 7 the
block that crushes ore in a stamp-mill. ЬStamp Act an act
concerned with stamp-duty, esp. that imposing the duty on the
American colonies in 1765 and repealed in 1766.
stamp-collecting the collecting of postage stamps as objects of
interest or value. stamp-collector a person engaged in
stamp-collecting. stamp-duty a duty imposed on certain kinds of
legal document. stamp-hinge see HINGE. stamping-ground a
favourite haunt or place of action. stamp-machine a
coin-operated machine for selling postage stamps. stamp-mill a
mill for crushing ore etc. stamp-office an office for the issue
of government stamps and the receipt of stamp-duty etc. stamp
on 1 impress (an idea etc.) on (the memory etc.). 2 suppress.
stamp out 1 produce by cutting out with a die etc. 2 put an end
to, crush, destroy. stamp-paper 1 paper with the government
revenue stamp. 2 the gummed marginal paper of a sheet of
postage stamps. ЬЬstamper n. [prob. f. OE stampian (v.)
(unrecorded) f. Gmc: infl. by OF estamper (v.) and F estampe
(n.) also f. Gmc]
stampede n. & v. --n. 1 a sudden flight and scattering of a number of
horses, cattle, etc. 2 a sudden flight or hurried movement of
people due to interest or panic. 3 US the spontaneous response
of many persons to a common impulse. --v. 1 intr. take part in
a stampede. 2 tr. cause to do this. 3 tr. cause to act
hurriedly or unreasoningly. ЬЬstampeder n. [Sp. estampida
crash, uproar, ult. f. Gmc, rel. to STAMP]
stance n. 1 an attitude or position of the body esp. when hitting a
ball etc. 2 a standpoint; an attitude of mind. 3 Sc. a site
for a market, taxi rank, etc. [F f. It. stanza: see STANZA]
stanch(1) v.tr. (also staunch) 1 restrain the flow of (esp. blood). 2
restrain the flow from (esp. a wound). [ME f. OF estanchier f.
Rmc]
stanch(2) var. of STAUNCH(1).
stanchion n. & v. --n. 1 a post or pillar, an upright support, a
vertical strut. 2 an upright bar, pair of bars, or frame, for
confining cattle in a stall. --v.tr. 1 supply with a
stanchion. 2 fasten (cattle) to a stanchion. [ME f. AF
stanchon, OF estanchon f. estance prob. ult. f. L stare stand]
stand v. & n. --v. (past and past part. stood) 1 intr. have or take
or maintain an upright position, esp. on the feet or a base. 2
intr. be situated or located (here once stood a village). 3
intr. be of a specified height (stands six foot three). 4 intr.
be in a specified condition (stands accused; the thermometer
stood at 90ш; the matter stands as follows; stood in awe of
them). 5 tr. place or set in an upright or specified position
(stood it against the wall). 6 intr. a move to and remain in a
specified position (stand aside). b take a specified attitude
(stand aloof). 7 intr. maintain a position; avoid falling or
moving or being moved (the house will stand for another century;
stood for hours arguing). 8 intr. assume a stationary position;
cease to move (now stand still). 9 intr. remain valid or
unaltered; hold good (the former conditions must stand). 10
intr. Naut. hold a specified course (stand in for the shore;
you are standing into danger). 11 tr. endure without yielding
or complaining; tolerate (cannot stand the pain; how can you
stand him?). 12 tr. provide for another or others at one's own
expense (stood him a drink). 13 intr. (often foll. by for)
Brit. be a candidate (for an office, legislature, or
constituency) (stood for Parliament; stood for Finchley). 14
intr. act in a specified capacity (stood proxy). 15 tr. undergo
(trial). 16 intr. Cricket act as umpire. 17 intr. (of a dog)
point, set. 18 intr. (in full stand at stud) (of a stallion) be
available for breeding. --n. 1 a cessation from motion or
progress, a stoppage (was brought to a stand). 2 a a halt made,
or a stationary condition assumed, for the purpose of
resistance. b resistance to attack or compulsion (esp. make a
stand). c Cricket a prolonged period at the wicket by two
batsmen. 3 a a position taken up (took his stand near the
door). b an attitude adopted. 4 a rack, set of shelves, table,
etc., on or in which things may be placed (music stand;
hatstand). 5 a a small open-fronted structure for a trader
outdoors or in a market etc. b a structure occupied by a
participating organization at an exhibition. 6 a standing-place
for vehicles (cab-stand). 7 a a raised structure for persons to
sit or stand on. b US a witness-box (take the stand). 8
Theatr. etc. each halt made on a tour to give one or more
performances. 9 a group of growing plants (stand of trees;
stand of clover). Ьas it stands 1 in its present condition,
unaltered. 2 in the present circumstances. be at a stand
archaic be unable to proceed, be in perplexity. it stands to
reason see REASON. stand alone be unequalled. stand and
deliver! hist. a highwayman's order to hand over valuables
etc. stand at bay see BAY(5). stand back 1 withdraw; take up a
position further from the front. 2 withdraw psychologically in
order to take an objective view. stand by 1 stand nearby; look
on without interfering (will not stand by and see him
ill-treated). 2 uphold, support, side with (a person). 3
adhere to, abide by (terms or promises). 4 Naut. stand ready to
take hold of or operate (an anchor etc.). stand-by n. (pl.
-bys) 1 a person or thing ready if needed in an emergency etc.
2 readiness for duty (on stand-by). --adj. 1 ready for
immediate use. 2 (of air travel) not booked in advance but
allocated on the basis of earliest availability. stand camera a
camera for use on a tripod, not hand-held. stand a chance see
CHANCE. stand corrected accept correction. stand down 1
withdraw (a person) or retire from a team, witness-box, or
similar position. 2 Brit. cease to be a candidate etc. 3 Brit.
Mil. go off duty. stand easy! see EASY. stand for 1
represent, signify, imply ('US' stands for 'United States';
democracy stands for a great deal more than that). 2 (often
with neg.) colloq. endure, tolerate, acquiesce in. 3 espouse
the cause of. stand one's ground maintain one's position, not
yield. stand high be high in status, price, etc. stand in
(usu. foll. by for) deputize; act in place of another. stand-in
n. a deputy or substitute, esp. for an actor when the latter's
acting ability is not needed. stand in the breach see BREACH.
stand in good stead see STEAD. stand in with be in league with.
stand of arms Brit. Mil. a complete set of weapons for one
man. stand of colours Brit. Mil. a regiment's flags. stand
off 1 move or keep away, keep one's distance. 2 Brit.
temporarily dispense with the services of (an employee).
stand-off n. 1 US a deadlock. 2 = stand-off half. stand-off
half Rugby Football a half-back who forms a link between the
scrum-half and the three-quarters. stand on 1 insist on,
observe scrupulously (stand on ceremony; stand on one's
dignity). 2 Naut. continue on the same course. stand on me sl.
rely on me; believe me. stand on one's own feet (or legs) be
self-reliant or independent. stand out 1 be prominent or
conspicuous or outstanding. 2 (usu. foll. by against, for) hold
out; persist in opposition or support or endurance. stand over
1 stand close to (a person) to watch, control, threaten, etc. 2
be postponed, be left for later settlement etc. stand pat see
PAT(2). stand to 1 Mil. stand ready for an attack (esp. before
dawn or after dark). 2 abide by, adhere to (terms or promises).
3 be likely or certain to (stands to lose everything). 4
uphold, support, or side with (a person). stand treat bear the
expense of entertainment etc. stand up 1 a rise to one's feet
from a sitting or other position. b come to or remain in or
place in a standing position. 2 (of an argument etc.) be valid.
3 colloq. fail to keep an appointment with. stand-up
attrib.adj. 1 (of a meal) eaten standing. 2 (of a fight)
violent, thorough, or fair and square. 3 (of a collar) upright,
not turned down. 4 (of a comedian) performing by standing
before an audience and telling jokes. stand up for support,
side with, maintain (a person or cause). stand upon = stand on.
stand up to 1 meet or face (an opponent) courageously. 2 be
resistant to the harmful effects of (wear, use, etc.). stand
well (usu. foll. by with) be on good terms or in good repute.
take one's stand on base one's argument etc. on, rely on.
ЬЬstander n. [OE standan f. Gmc]
standalone
adj. (of a computer) operating independently of a network or
other system.
standard n. & adj. --n. 1 an object or quality or measure serving as a
basis or example or principle to which others conform or should
conform or by which the accuracy or quality of others is judged
(by present-day standards). 2 a the degree of excellence etc.
required for a particular purpose (not up to standard). b
average quality (of a low standard). 3 the ordinary procedure,
or quality or design of a product, without added or novel
features. 4 a distinctive flag, esp. the flag of a cavalry
regiment as distinct from the colours of an infantry regiment.
5 a an upright support. b an upright water or gas pipe. 6 a a
tree or shrub that stands alone without support. b a shrub
grafted on an upright stem and trained in tree form (standard
rose). 7 a document specifying nationally or internationally
agreed properties for manufactured goods etc. (British
Standard). 8 a thing recognized as a model for imitation etc.
9 a tune or song of established popularity. 10 a a system by
which the value of a currency is defined in terms of gold or
silver or both. b the prescribed proportion of the weight of
fine metal in gold or silver coins. 11 a measure for timber,
equivalent to 165 cu. ft. (4.7 cubic metres). 12 Brit. hist. a
grade of classification in elementary schools. --adj. 1
serving or used as a standard (a standard size). 2 of a normal
or prescribed quality or size etc. 3 having recognized and
permanent value; authoritative (the standard book on the
subject). 4 (of language) conforming to established educated
usage (Standard English). Ьmultiple standard a standard of
value obtained by averaging the prices of a number of products.
raise a standard take up arms; rally support (raised the
standard of revolt). standard-bearer 1 a soldier who carries a
standard. 2 a prominent leader in a cause. standard deviation
see DEVIATION. standard lamp Brit. a lamp set on a tall
upright with its base standing on the floor. standard of living
the degree of material comfort available to a person or class or
community. standard time a uniform time for places in
approximately the same longitude, established in a country or
region by law or custom. [ME f. AF estaundart, OF estendart f.
estendre, as EXTEND: in senses 5 and 6 of n. affected by
association with STAND]
Standardbred
n. US 1 a horse of a breed able to attain a specified speed,
developed esp. for trotting. 2 this breed.
standardize
v.tr. (also -ise) 1 cause to conform to a standard. 2
determine the properties of by comparison with a standard.
ЬЬstandardizable adj. standardization n. standardizer n.
standee n. colloq. a person who stands, esp. when all seats are
occupied.
standing n. & adj. --n. 1 esteem or repute, esp. high; status, position
(people of high standing; is of no standing). 2 duration (a
dispute of long standing). 3 length of service, membership,
etc. --adj. 1 that stands, upright. 2 a established,
permanent (a standing rule). b not made, raised, etc., for the
occasion (a standing army). 3 (of a jump, start, race, etc.)
performed from rest or from a standing position. 4 (of water)
stagnant. 5 (of corn) unreaped. 6 (of a stallion) that stands
at stud. 7 Printing (formerly, of type) not yet distributed
after use. Ьall standing 1 Naut. without time to lower the
sails. 2 taken by surprise. in good standing fully paid-up as
a member etc. leave a person standing make far more rapid
progress than he or she. standing committee see COMMITTEE.
standing joke an object of permanent ridicule. standing order
an instruction to a banker to make regular payments, or to a
newsagent etc. for a regular supply of a periodical etc.
standing orders the rules governing the manner in which all
business shall be conducted in a parliament, council, society,
etc. standing ovation a rousing ovation conferred by an
audience risen from their seats. standing rigging rigging which
is fixed in position. standing-room space to stand in.
standing wave Physics the vibration of a system in which some
particular points remain fixed while others between them vibrate
with the maximum amplitude (cf. travelling wave).
standoffish
adj. cold or distant in manner. ЬЬstandoffishly adv.
standoffishness n.
standout n. US a remarkable person or thing.
standpipe n. a vertical pipe extending from a water supply, esp. one
connecting a temporary tap to the mains.
standpoint
n. 1 the position from which a thing is viewed. 2 a mental
attitude.
standstill
n. a stoppage; an inability to proceed.
stanhope n. a light open carriage for one with two or four wheels.
[Fitzroy Stanhope, Engl. clergyman d. 1864, for whom the first
one was made]
staniel n. a kestrel. [OE stangella 'stone-yeller' f. stan stone +
gellan yell]
stank past of STINK.
stannary n. (pl. -ies) Brit. 1 a tin-mine. 2 (usu. in pl.) a
tin-mining district in Cornwall and Devon. Ьstannary court a
legal body for the regulation of tin-miners in the stannaries.
[med.L stannaria (pl.) f. LL stannum tin]
stannic adj. Chem. of or relating to tetravalent tin (stannic acid;
stannic chloride). [LL stannum tin]
stannous adj. Chem. of or relating to bivalent tin (stannous salts;
stannous chloride).
stanza n. 1 the basic metrical unit in a poem or verse consisting of a
recurring group of lines (often four lines and usu. not more
than twelve) which may or may not rhyme. 2 a group of four
lines in some Greek and Latin metres. ЬЬstanza'd adj. (also
stanzaed) (also in comb.). stanzaic adj. [It., =
standing-place, chamber, stanza, ult. f. L stare stand]
stapelia n. any S. African plant of the genus Stapelia, with flowers
having an unpleasant smell. [mod.L f. J. B. von Stapel, Du.
botanist d. 1636]
stapes n. (pl. same) a small stirrup-shaped bone in the ear of a
mammal. [mod.L f. med.L stapes stirrup]
staphylococcus
n. (pl. staphylococci) any bacterium of the genus
Staphylococcus, occurring in grapelike clusters, and sometimes
causing pus formation usu. in the skin and mucous membranes of
animals. ЬЬstaphylococcal adj. [mod.L f. Gk staphule bunch of
grapes + kokkos berry]
staple(1) n. & v. --n. a U-shaped metal bar or piece of wire with pointed
ends for driving into, securing, or fastening together various
materials or for driving through and clenching papers, netting,
electric wire, etc. --v.tr. provide or fasten with a staple.
Ьstaple gun a hand-held device for driving in staples.
ЬЬstapler n. [OE stapol f. Gmc]
staple(2) n., adj., & v. --n. 1 the principal or an important article of
commerce (the staples of British Industry). 2 the chief element
or a main component, e.g. of a diet. 3 a raw material. 4 the
fibre of cotton or wool etc. as determining its quality (cotton
of fine staple). --adj. 1 main or principal (staple
commodities). 2 important as a product or an export. --v.tr.
sort or classify (wool etc.) according to fibre. [ME f. OF
estaple market f. MLG, MDu. stapel market (as STAPLE(1))]
star n. & v. --n. 1 a celestial body appearing as a luminous point
in the night sky. 2 (in full fixed star) such a body so far
from the earth as to appear motionless (cf. PLANET, COMET). 3
a large naturally luminous gaseous body such as the sun is. 4 a
celestial body regarded as influencing a person's fortunes etc.
(born under a lucky star). 5 a thing resembling a star in shape
or appearance. 6 a star-shaped mark, esp. a white mark on a
horse's forehead. 7 a figure or object with radiating points
esp. as the insignia of an order, as a decoration or mark of
rank, or showing a category of excellence (a five-star hotel;
was awarded a gold star). 8 a a famous or brilliant person; the
principal or most prominent performer in a play, film, etc. (the
star of the show). b (attrib.) outstanding; particularly
brilliant ( star pupil). 9 (in full star connection) Electr. a
Y-shaped arrangement of three-phase windings. 10 = star
prisoner. --v. (starred, starring) 1 a tr. (of a film etc.)
feature as a principal performer. b intr. (of a performer) be
featured in a film etc. 2 (esp. as starred adj.) a mark, set,
or adorn with a star or stars. b put an asterisk or star beside
(a name, an item in a list, etc.). Ьmy stars! colloq. an
expression of surprise. star-apple an edible purple apple-like
fruit (with a starlike cross-section) of a tropical evergreen
tree, Chrysophyllum cainito. Star Chamber Brit. Law 1 hist. a
court of civil and criminal jurisdiction noted for its arbitrary
procedure, and abolished in 1640. 2 any arbitrary or oppressive
tribunal. star-crossed archaic ill-fated. star fruit =
CARAMBOLA. star-gaze 1 gaze at or study the stars. 2 gaze
intently. star-gazer 1 colloq. usu. derog. or joc. an
astronomer or astrologer. 2 Austral. sl. a horse that turns
its head when galloping. star of Bethlehem any of various
plants with starlike flowers esp. Ornithogalum umbellatum with
white star-shaped flowers striped with green on the outside (see
Matt. 2:9). Star of David a figure consisting of two interlaced
equilateral triangles used as a Jewish and Israeli symbol. star
prisoner Brit. sl. a convict serving a first prison sentence.
star route US a postal delivery route served by private
contractors. Stars and Bars the flag of the Confederate States
of the US. Stars and Stripes the national flag of the US. star
sapphire a cabochon sapphire reflecting a star-like image due to
its regular internal structure. star shell an explosive
projectile designed to burst in the air and light up the enemy's
position. star-spangled (esp. of the US national flag) covered
or glittering with stars. star stream a systematic drift of
stars. star-studded containing or covered with many stars, esp.
featuring many famous performers. star turn the principal item
in an entertainment or performance. Star Wars colloq. the
strategic defence initiative. ЬЬstardom n. starless adj.
starlike adj. [OE steorra f. Gmc]
starboard n. & v. Naut. & Aeron. --n. the right-hand side (looking
forward) of a ship, boat, or aircraft (cf. PORT(3)). --v.tr.
(also absol.) turn (the helm) to starboard. Ьstarboard tack see
TACK(1) 4. starboard watch see WATCH n. 3b. [OE steorbord =
rudder side (see STEER, BOARD), early Teutonic ships being
steered with a paddle over the right side]
starch n. & v. --n. 1 an odourless tasteless polysaccharide occurring
widely in plants and obtained chiefly from cereals and potatoes,
forming an important constitutent of the human diet. 2 a
preparation of this for stiffening fabric before ironing. 3
stiffness of manner; formality. --v.tr. stiffen (clothing) with
starch. Ьstarch-reduced (esp. of food) containing less than the
normal proportion of starch. ЬЬstarcher n. [earlier as verb:
ME sterche f. OE stercan (unrecorded) stiffen f. Gmc: cf.
STARK]
starchy adj. (starchier, starchiest) 1 a of or like starch. b
containing much starch. 2 (of a person) precise, prim.
ЬЬstarchily adv. starchiness n.
stardust n. 1 a twinkling mass. 2 a romantic mystical look or
sensation. 3 a multitude of stars looking like dust.
stare v. & n. --v. 1 intr. (usu. foll. by at) look fixedly with eyes
open, esp. as the result of curiosity, surprise, bewilderment,
admiration, horror, etc. (sat staring at the door; stared in
amazement). 2 intr. (of eyes) be wide open and fixed. 3 intr.
be unpleasantly prominent or striking. 4 tr. (foll. by into)
reduce (a person) to a specified condition by staring (stared me
into silence). --n. a staring gaze. Ьstare down (or out)
outstare. stare a person in the face be evident or imminent.
ЬЬstarer n. [OE starian f. Gmc]
starfish n. an echinoderm of the class Asteroidea with five or more
radiating arms.
stark adj. & adv. --adj. 1 desolate, bare (a stark landscape). 2
sharply evident (in stark contrast). 3 downright, sheer (stark
madness). 4 completely naked. 5 archaic strong, stiff, rigid.
--adv. completely, wholly (stark mad; stark naked). ЬЬstarkly
adv. starkness n. [OE stearc f. Gmc: stark naked f. earlier
start-naked f. obs. start tail: cf. REDSTART]
Stark effect
n. Physics the splitting of a spectrum line into several
components by the application of an electric field. [J. Stark,
Ger. physicist d. 1957]
starkers adj. Brit. sl. stark naked.
starlet n. 1 a promising young performer, esp. a woman. 2 a little
star.
starlight n. 1 the light of the stars (walked home by starlight). 2
(attrib.) = STARLIT (a starlight night).
starling(1)
n. 1 a small gregarious partly migratory bird, Sturnus
vulgaris, with blackish-brown speckled lustrous plumage, chiefly
inhabiting cultivated areas. 2 any similar bird of the family
Sturnidae. [OE st‘rlinc f. st‘r starling f. Gmc: cf.
-LING(1)]
starling(2)
n. piles built around or upstream of a bridge or pier to
protect it from floating rubbish etc. [perh. corrupt. of (now
dial.) staddling STADDLE]
starlit adj. 1 lighted by stars. 2 with stars visible.
starry adj. (starrier, starriest) 1 covered with stars. 2 resembling
a star. Ьstarry-eyed colloq. 1 visionary; enthusiastic but
impractical. 2 euphoric. ЬЬstarrily adv. starriness n.
start v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. begin; commence (started work;
started crying; started to shout; the play starts at eight). 2
tr. set (proceedings, an event, etc.) in motion (start the
meeting; started a fire). 3 intr. (often foll. by on) make a
beginning (started on a new project). 4 intr. (often foll. by
after, for) set oneself in motion or action ('wait!' he shouted,
and started after her). 5 intr. set out; begin a journey etc.
(we start at 6 a.m.). 6 (often foll. by up) a intr. (of a
machine) begin operating (the car wouldn't start). b tr. cause
(a machine etc.) to begin operating (tried to start the engine).
7 tr. a cause or enable (a person) to make a beginning (with
something) (started me in business with њ10,000). b (foll. by
pres. part.) cause (a person) to begin (doing something) ( the
smoke started me coughing). c Brit. colloq. complain or be
critical (don't you start). 8 tr. (often foll. by up) found or
establish; originate. 9 intr. (foll. by at, with) have as the
first of a series of items, e.g. in a meal (we started with
soup). 10 tr. give a signal to (competitors) to start in a
race. 11 intr. (often foll. by up, from, etc.) make a sudden
movement from surprise, pain, etc. (started at the sound of my
voice). 12 intr. (foll. by out, up, from, etc.) spring out, up,
etc. (started up from the chair). 13 tr. conceive (a baby). 14
tr. rouse (game etc.) from its lair. 15 a intr. (of timbers
etc.) spring from their proper position; give way. b tr. cause
or experience (timbers etc.) to do this. 16 intr. (foll. by
out, to, etc.) (of a thing) move or appear suddenly (tears
started to his eyes). 17 intr. (foll. by from) (of eyes, usu.
with exaggeration) burst forward (from their sockets etc.). 18
tr. pour out (liquor) from a cask. --n. 1 a beginning of an
event, action, journey, etc. (missed the start; an early start
tomorrow; made a fresh start). 2 the place from which a race
etc. begins. 3 an advantage given at the beginning of a race
etc. (a 15-second start). 4 an advantageous initial position in
life, business, etc. (a good start in life). 5 a sudden
movement of surprise, pain, etc. (you gave me a start). 6 an
intermittent or spasmodic effort or movement (esp. in or by
fits and starts). 7 colloq. a surprising occurrence (a queer
start; a rum start). Ьfor a start colloq. as a beginning; in
the first place. get the start of gain an advantage over.
start a hare see HARE. start in colloq. 1 begin. 2 (foll. by
on) US make a beginning on. start off 1 begin; commence
(started off on a lengthy monologue). 2 begin to move (it's
time we started off). start out 1 begin a journey. 2 colloq.
(foll. by to + infin.) proceed as intending (to do something).
start over US begin again. start school attend school for the
first time. start something colloq. cause trouble. start up
arise; occur. to start with 1 in the first place; before
anything else is considered (should never have been there to
start with). 2 at the beginning (had six members to start
with). [OE (orig. in sense 11) f. Gmc]
starter n. 1 a person or thing that starts. 2 an esp. automatic device
for starting the engine of a motor vehicle etc. 3 a person
giving the signal for the start of a race. 4 a horse or
competitor starting in a race (a list of probable starters). 5
the first course of a meal. 6 the initial action etc. Ьfor
starters sl. to start with. under starter's orders (of
racehorses etc.) in a position to start a race and awaiting the
starting-signal.
starting n. in senses of START v. Ьstarting-block a shaped rigid block
for bracing the feet of a runner at the start of a race.
starting-gate a movable barrier for securing a fair start in
horse-races. starting-handle Brit. Mech. a crank for starting
a motor engine. starting pistol a pistol used to give the
signal for the start of a race. starting-point the point from
which a journey, process, argument, etc. begins. starting post
the post from which competitors start in a race. starting price
the odds ruling at the start of a horse-race. starting stall a
compartment for one horse at the start of a race.
startle v.tr. give a shock or surprise to; cause (a person etc.) to
start with surprise or sudden alarm. ЬЬstartler n. [OE
steartlian (as START, -LE(4))]
starve v. 1 intr. die of hunger; suffer from malnourishment. 2 tr.
cause to die of hunger or suffer from lack of food. 3 intr.
suffer from extreme poverty. 4 intr. colloq. feel very hungry
(I'm starving). 5 intr. a suffer from mental or spiritual
want. b (foll. by for) feel a strong craving for (sympathy,
amusement, knowledge, etc.). 6 tr. a (foll. by of) deprive of;
keep scantily supplied with (starved of affection). b cause to
suffer from mental or spiritual want. 7 tr. a (foll. by into)
compel by starving (starved into submission). b (foll. by out)
compel to surrender etc. by starving (starved them out). 8
intr. archaic or dial. perish with or suffer from cold.
ЬЬstarvation n. [OE steorfan die]
starveling
n. & adj. archaic --n. a starving or ill-fed person or animal.
--adj. 1 starving. 2 meagre.
starwort n. a plant of the genus Stellaria with star-like flowers.
stash v. & n. colloq. --v.tr. (often foll. by away) 1 conceal; put
in a safe or hidden place. 2 hoard, stow, store. --n. 1 a
hiding-place or hide-out. 2 a thing hidden; a cache. [18th c.:
orig. unkn.]
stasis n. (pl. stases) 1 inactivity; stagnation; a state of
equilibrium. 2 a stoppage of circulation of any of the body
fluids. [mod.L f. Gk f. sta- STAND]
-stasis comb. form (pl. -stases) Physiol. forming nouns denoting a
slowing or stopping (haemostasis). ЬЬ-static comb. form forming
adjectives.
-stat comb. form forming nouns with ref. to keeping fixed or
stationary (rheostat). [Gk statos stationary]
state n. & v. --n. 1 the existing condition or position of a person
or thing (in a bad state of repair; in a precarious state of
health). 2 colloq. a an excited, anxious, or agitated mental
condition (esp. in a state). b an untidy condition. 3 (usu.
State) a an organized political community under one government;
a commonwealth; a nation. b such a community forming part of a
federal republic, esp. the United States of America. 4 (usu.
State) (attrib.) a of, for, or concerned with the State (State
documents). b reserved for or done on occasions of ceremony
(State apartments; State visit). c involving ceremony (State
opening of Parliament). 5 (usu. State) civil government
(Church and State; Secretary of State). 6 pomp, rank, dignity
(as befits their state). 7 (the States) the legislative body in
Jersey, Guernsey, and Alderney. 8 Bibliog. one of two or more
variant forms of a single edition of a book. 9 a an etched or
engraved plate at a particular stage of its progress. b an
impression taken from this. --v.tr. 1 express, esp. fully or
clearly, in speech or writing (have stated my opinion; must
state full particulars). 2 fix, specify (at stated intervals).
3 Law specify the facts of (a case) for consideration. 4 Mus.
play (a theme etc.) so as to make it known to the listener. Ьin
state with all due ceremony. of State concerning politics or
government. State capitalism a system of State control and use
of capital. State Department (in the US) the department of
foreign affairs. State-house US the building where the
legislature of a State meets. State house NZ a private house
built at the government's expense. state of the art 1 the
current stage of development of a practical or technological
subject. 2 (usu. state-of-the-art) (attrib.) using the latest
techniques or equipment ( state-of-the-art weaponry). state of
grace the condition of being free from grave sin. state of life
rank and occupation. state of things (or affairs or play) the
circumstances; the current situation. state of war the
situation when war has been declared or is in progress. State
prisoner see PRISONER. State school a school managed and funded
by the public authorities. State's evidence see EVIDENCE.
States General hist. the legislative body in the Netherlands,
and in France before 1789. State socialism a system of State
control of industries and services. States' rights US the
rights and powers not assumed by the United States but reserved
to its individual States. State trial prosecution by the State.
State university US a university managed by the public
authorities of a State. ЬЬstatable adj. statedly adv.
statehood n. [ME: partly f. ESTATE, partly f. L STATUS]
statecraft
n. the art of conducting affairs of state.
stateless adj. 1 (of a person) having no nationality or citizenship. 2
without a State. ЬЬstatelessness n.
stately adj. (statelier, stateliest) dignified; imposing; grand.
Ьstately home Brit. a large magnificent house, esp. one open to
the public. ЬЬstateliness n.
statement n. 1 the act or an instance of stating or being stated;
expression in words. 2 a thing stated; a declaration (that
statement is unfounded). 3 a formal account of facts, esp. to
the police or in a court of law (make a statement). 4 a record
of transactions in a bank account etc. 5 a formal notification
of the amount due to a tradesman etc.
stater n. an ancient Greek gold or silver coin. [ME f. LL f. Gk
stater]
stateroom n. 1 a state apartment in a palace, hotel, etc. 2 a private
compartment in a passenger ship or US train.
Stateside adj. US colloq. of, in, or towards the United States.
statesman n. (pl. -men; fem. stateswoman, pl. -women) 1 a person
skilled in affairs of State, esp. one taking an active part in
politics. 2 a distinguished and capable politician.
ЬЬstatesmanlike adj. statesmanly adj. statesmanship n. [=
state' s man after F homme d'‚tat]
statewide adj. US so as to include or cover a whole State.
static adj. & n. --adj. 1 stationary; not acting or changing;
passive. 2 Physics a concerned with bodies at rest or forces in
equilibrium (opp. DYNAMIC). b acting as weight but not moving
(static pressure). c of statics. --n. 1 static electricity.
2 atmospherics. Ьstatic electricity electricity not flowing as
a current. static line a length of cord attached to an aircraft
etc. which releases a parachute without the use of a ripcord.
[mod.L staticus f. Gk statikos f. sta- stand]
statical adj. = STATIC. ЬЬstatically adv.
statice n. 1 sea lavender. 2 sea pink. [L f. Gk, fem. of statikos
STATIC (with ref. to stanching of blood)]
statics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) 1 the science of bodies at rest
or of forces in equilibrium (opp. DYNAMICS). 2 = STATIC.
[STATIC n. in the same senses + -ICS]
station n. & v. --n. 1 a a regular stopping place on a railway line,
with a platform and usu. administrative buildings. b these
buildings (see also bus station, coach station). 2 a place or
building etc. where a person or thing stands or is placed, esp.
habitually or for a definite purpose. 3 a a designated point or
establishment where a particular service or activity is based or
organized (police station; polling station). b US a subsidiary
post office. 4 an establishment involved in radio or television
broadcasting. 5 a a military or naval base esp. hist. in
India. b the inhabitants of this. 6 position in life; rank or
status (ideas above your station). 7 Austral. & NZ a large
sheep or cattle farm. 8 Bot. a particular place where an
unusual species etc. grows. --v.tr. 1 assign a station to. 2
put in position. Ьstation-bill Naut. a list showing the
prescribed stations of a ship's crew for various drills or in an
emergency. station break US a pause between broadcast
programmes for an announcement of the identity of the station
transmitting them. station hand Austral. a worker on a large
sheep or cattle farm. station house US a police station.
station-keeping the maintenance of one's proper relative
position in a moving body of ships etc. station of the cross RC
Ch. a each of a series of usu. 14 images or pictures
representing the events in Christ's passion before which
devotions are performed in some churches. b each of these
devotions. station pointer Naut. a ship's navigational
instrument, often a three-armed protractor, for fixing one's
place on a chart from the angle in the horizontal plane between
two land- or sea-marks. station sergeant Brit. the sergeant in
charge of a police station. station-wagon an estate car. [ME,
= standing, f. OF f. L statio -onis f. stare stand]
stationary
adj. 1 remaining in one place, not moving (hit a stationary
car). 2 not meant to be moved; not portable (stationary troops;
stationary engine). 3 not changing in magnitude, number,
quality, efficiency, etc. (stationary temperature). 4 (of a
planet) having no apparent motion in longitude. Ьstationary air
air remaining in the lungs during ordinary respiration.
stationary bicycle a fixed exercise-machine resembling a
bicycle. stationary point Math. a point on a curve where the
gradient is zero. stationary wave = standing wave.
ЬЬstationariness n. [ME f. L stationarius (as STATION)]
stationer n. a person who sells writing materials etc. ЬStationers' Hall
Brit. the hall of the Stationers' Company in London, at which a
book was formerly registered for purposes of copyright. [ME, =
bookseller (as STATIONARY in med.L sense 'shopkeeper', esp.
bookseller, as opposed to pedlar)]
stationery
n. writing materials etc. sold by a stationer. ЬStationery
Office (in the UK) the Government's publishing house which also
provides stationery for Government offices.
stationmaster
n. the official in charge of a railway station.
statism n. centralized State administration and control of social and
economic affairs.
statist n. 1 a statistician. 2 a supporter of statism. [orig.
'politician' f. It. statista (as STATE)]
statistic n. & adj. --n. a statistical fact or item. --adj. =
STATISTICAL. [G statistisch, Statistik f. Statist (as
STATIST)]
statistical
adj. of or relating to statistics. Ьstatistical physics
physics as it is concerned with large numbers of particles to
which statistics can be applied. statistical significance =
SIGNIFICANCE 4. ЬЬstatistically adv.
statistics
n.pl. 1 (usu. treated as sing.) the science of collecting and
analysing numerical data, esp. in or for large quantities, and
usu. inferring proportions in a whole from proportions in a
representative sample. 2 any systematic collection or
presentation of such facts. ЬЬstatistician n.
stator n. Electr. the stationary part of a machine, esp. of an
electric motor or generator. [STATIONARY, after ROTOR]
statoscope
n. an aneroid barometer used to show minute variations of
pressure, esp. to indicate the altitude of an aircraft. [Gk
statos fixed f. sta- stand + -SCOPE]
statuary adj. & n. --adj. of or for statues (statuary art). --n. (pl.
-ies) 1 statues collectively. 2 the art of making statues. 3 a
sculptor. Ьstatuary marble fine-grained white marble. [L
statuarius (as STATUE)]
statue n. a sculptured, cast, carved, or moulded figure of a person or
animal, esp. life-size or larger (cf. STATUETTE). ЬЬstatued
adj. [ME f. OF f. L statua f. stare stand]
statuesque
adj. like, or having the dignity or beauty of a statue.
ЬЬstatuesquely adv. statuesqueness n. [STATUE + -ESQUE, after
picturesque]
statuette n. a small statue; a statue less than life-size. [F, dimin. of
statue]
stature n. 1 the height of a (esp. human) body. 2 a degree of
eminence, social standing, or advancement (recruit someone of
his stature). ЬЬstatured adj. (also in comb.). [ME f. OF f. L
statura f. stare stat- stand]
status n. 1 rank, social position, relation to others, relative
importance (not sure of their status in the hierarchy). 2 a
superior social etc. position (considering your status in the
business). 3 Law a person's legal standing which determines his
or her rights and duties, e.g. citizen, alien, commoner,
civilian, etc. 4 the position of affairs (let me know if the
status changes). Ьstatus symbol a possession etc. taken to
indicate a person's high status. [L, = standing f. stare
stand]
status quo
n. the existing state of affairs. [L, = the state in which]
statutable
adj. = STATUTORY, esp. in amount or value. ЬЬstatutably adv.
statute n. 1 a written law passed by a legislative body, e.g. an Act of
Parliament. 2 a rule of a corporation, founder, etc., intended
to be permanent (against the University Statutes). 3 divine law
(kept thy statutes). Ьstatute-barred (of a case etc.) no longer
legally enforceable by reason of the lapse of time.
statute-book 1 a book or books containing the statute law. 2
the body of a country's statutes. statute law 1 (collect.) the
body of principles and rules of law laid down in statutes as
distinct from rules formulated in practical application (cf.
common law, case-law (see CASE(1))). 2 a statute. statute mile
see MILE 1. statute-roll 1 the rolls in the Public Records
Office containing the statutes of the Parliament of England. 2
= statute-book. statutes at large the statutes as originally
enacted, regardless of later modifications. [ME f. OF statut f.
LL statutum neut. past part. of L statuere set up f. status:
see STATUS]
statutory adj. required, permitted, or enacted by statute (statutory
minimum; statutory provisions). Ьstatutory rape US the act of
sexual intercourse with a minor. ЬЬstatutorily adv.
staunch(1)
adj. (also stanch) 1 trustworthy, loyal (my staunch friend and
supporter). 2 (of a ship, joint, etc.) strong, watertight,
airtight, etc. ЬЬstaunchly adv. staunchness n. [ME f. OF
estanche fem. of estanc f. Rmc: see STANCH(1)]
staunch(2)
var. of STANCH(1).
stave n. & v. --n. 1 each of the curved pieces of wood forming the
sides of a cask, pail, etc. 2 = STAFF(1) n. 3. 3 a stanza or
verse. 4 the rung of a ladder. --v.tr. (past and past part.
stove or staved) 1 break a hole in. 2 crush or knock out of
shape. 3 fit or furnish (a cask etc.) with staves. Ьstave in
crush by forcing inwards. stave off avert or defer (danger or
misfortune). stave rhyme alliteration, esp. in old Germanic
poetry. [ME, back-form. f. staves, pl. of STAFF(1)]
staves pl. of STAFF(1) n. 3.
stavesacre
n. a larkspur, Delphinium staphisagria, yielding seeds used as
poison for vermin. [ME f. L staphisagria f. Gk staphis agria
wild raisin]
stay(1) v. & n. --v. 1 intr. continue to be in the same place or
condition; not depart or change (stay here until I come back).
2 intr. a (often foll. by at, in, with) have temporary
residence as a visitor etc. (stayed with them for Christmas). b
Sc. & S.Afr. dwell permanently. 3 archaic or literary a tr.
stop or check (progress, the inroads of a disease, etc.). b
intr. (esp. in imper.) pause in movement, action, speech, etc.
(Stay! You forget one thing). 4 tr. postpone (judgement,
decision, etc.). 5 tr. assuage (hunger etc.) esp. for a short
time. 6 a intr. show endurance. b tr. show endurance to the
end of (a race etc.). 7 tr. (often foll. by up) literary
support, prop up (as or with a buttress etc.). 8 intr. (foll.
by for, to) wait long enough to share or join in an activity
etc. (stay to supper; stay for the film). --n. 1 a the act or
an instance of staying or dwelling in one place. b the duration
of this (just a ten-minute stay; a long stay in London). 2 a
suspension or postponement of a sentence, judgement, etc. (was
granted a stay of execution). 3 archaic or literary a check or
restraint (will endure no stay; a stay upon his activity). 4
endurance, staying power. 5 a prop or support. 6 (in pl.)
hist. a corset esp. with whalebone etc. stiffening, and laced.
Ьhas come (or is here) to stay colloq. must be regarded as
permanent. stay-at-home adj. remaining habitually at home.
--n. a person who does this. stay-bar (or -rod) a support used
in building or in machinery. stay the course pursue a course of
action or endure a struggle etc. to the end. stay one's hand
see HAND. stay in remain indoors or at home, esp. in school
after hours as a punishment. staying power endurance, stamina.
stay-in strike = sit-down strike. stay the night remain until
the next day. stay put colloq. remain where it is placed or
where one is. stay up not go to bed (until late at night).
ЬЬstayer n. [AF estai- stem of OF ester f. L stare stand: sense
5 f. OF estaye(r) prop, formed as STAY(2)]
stay(2) n. & v. --n. 1 Naut. a rope or guy supporting a mast, spar,
flagstaff, etc. 2 a tie-piece in an aircraft etc. --v.tr. 1
support (a mast etc.) by stays. 2 put (a ship) on another tack.
Ьbe in stays (of a sailing ship) be head to the wind while
tacking. miss stays fail to be in stays. [OE st‘g be firm, f.
Gmc]
staysail n. a triangular fore-and-aft sail extended on a stay.
STD abbr. 1 subscriber trunk dialling. 2 Doctor of Sacred
Theology. [sense 2 f. L Sanctae Theologiae Doctor]
stead n. Ьin a person's or thing's stead as a substitute; instead of
him or her or it. stand a person in good stead be advantageous
or serviceable to him or her. [OE stede f. Gmc]
steady adj., v., adv., int., & n. --adj. (steadier, steadiest) 1
firmly fixed or supported or standing or balanced; not
tottering, rocking, or wavering. 2 done or operating or
happening in a uniform and regular manner (a steady pace; a
steady increase). 3 a constant in mind or conduct; not
changeable. b persistent. 4 (of a person) serious and
dependable in behaviour; of industrious and temperate habits;
safe; cautious. 5 regular, established (a steady girlfriend).
6 accurately directed; not faltering (a steady hand; a steady
eye). 7 (of a ship) on course and upright. --v.tr. & intr.
(-ies, -ied) make or become steady (steady the boat). --adv.
steadily (hold it steady). --int. as a command or warning to
take care. --n. (pl. -ies) colloq. a regular boyfriend or
girlfriend. Ьgo steady (often foll. by with) colloq. have as a
regular boyfriend or girlfriend. steady down become steady.
steady-going staid; sober. steady on! a call to take care.
steady state an unvarying condition, esp. in a physical process,
e.g. of the universe having no beginning and no end. ЬЬsteadier
n. steadily adv. steadiness n. [STEAD = place, + -Y(1)]
steak n. 1 a thick slice of meat (esp. beef) or fish, often cut for
grilling, frying, etc. 2 beef cut for stewing or braising.
Ьsteak-house a restaurant specializing in serving beefsteaks.
steak-knife a knife with a serrated steel blade for eating
steak. [ME f. ON steik rel. to steikja roast on spit, stikna be
roasted]
steal v. & n. --v. (past stole; past part. stolen) 1 tr. (also
absol.) a take (another person's property) illegally. b take
(property etc.) without right or permission, esp. in secret with
the intention of not returning it. 2 tr. obtain surreptitiously
or by surprise (stole a kiss). 3 tr. a gain insidiously or
artfully. b (often foll. by away) win or get possession of (a
person's affections etc.), esp. insidiously (stole her heart
away). 4 intr. (foll. by in, out, away, up, etc.) a move, esp.
silently or stealthily (stole out of the room). b (of a sound
etc.) become gradually perceptible. 5 tr. a (in various
sports) gain (a run, the ball, etc.) surreptitiously or by luck.
b Baseball reach (a base) by deceiving the fielders. --n. 1 US
colloq. the act or an instance of stealing or theft. 2 colloq.
an unexpectedly easy task or good bargain. Ьsteal a march on
get an advantage over by surreptitious means; anticipate. steal
the show outshine other performers, esp. unexpectedly. steal a
person's thunder use another person's words, ideas, etc.,
without permission and without giving credit. ЬЬstealer n.
(also in comb.). [OE stelan f. Gmc]
stealth n. secrecy, a secret procedure. Ьby stealth surreptitiously.
[ME f. OE (as STEAL, -TH(2))]
stealthy adj. (stealthier, stealthiest) 1 (of an action) done with
stealth; proceeding imperceptibly. 2 (of a person or thing)
moving with stealth. ЬЬstealthily adv. stealthiness n.
steam n. & v. --n. 1 a the gas into which water is changed by
boiling, used as a source of power by virtue of its expansion of
volume. b a mist of liquid particles of water produced by the
condensation of this gas. 2 any similar vapour. 3 a energy or
power provided by a steam engine or other machine. b colloq.
power or energy generally. --v. 1 tr. a cook (food) in steam.
b soften or make pliable (timber etc.) or otherwise treat with
steam. 2 intr. give off steam or other vapour, esp. visibly. 3
intr. a move under steam power (the ship steamed down the
river). b (foll. by ahead, away, etc.) colloq. proceed or
travel fast or with vigour. 4 tr. & intr. (usu. foll. by up) a
cover or become covered with condensed steam. b (as steamed up
adj.) colloq. angry or excited. 5 tr. (foll. by open etc.)
apply steam to the gum of (a sealed envelope) to get it open.
Ьget up steam 1 generate enough power to work a steam engine. 2
work oneself into an energetic or angry state. let off steam
relieve one's pent up feelings or energy. run out of steam lose
one's impetus or energy. steam age the era when trains were
drawn by steam locomotives. steam bath a room etc. filled with
steam for bathing in. steam boiler a vessel (in a steam engine
etc.) in which water is boiled to generate steam. steam engine
1 an engine which uses the expansion or rapid condensation of
steam to generate power. 2 a locomotive powered by this. steam
gauge a pressure gauge attached to a steam boiler. steam hammer
a forging-hammer powered by steam. steam-heat the warmth given
out by steam-heated radiators etc. steam iron an electric iron
that emits steam from its flat surface, to improve its pressing
ability. steam-jacket a casing for steam round a cylinder, for
heating its contents. steam organ a fairground pipe-organ
driven by a steam engine and played by means of a keyboard or a
system of punched cards. steam power the force of steam applied
to machinery etc. steam shovel an excavator powered by steam.
steam-tight impervious to steam. steam train a train driven by
a steam engine. steam tug a steamer for towing ships etc.
steam turbine a turbine in which a high-velocity jet of steam
rotates a bladed disc or drum. under one's own steam without
assistance; unaided. [OE steam f. Gmc]
steamboat n. a boat propelled by a steam engine.
steamer n. 1 a person or thing that steams. 2 a vessel propelled by
steam, esp. a ship. 3 a vessel in which things are steamed,
esp. cooked by steam. Ьsteamer rug US a travelling-rug.
steamroller
n. & v. --n. 1 a heavy slow-moving vehicle with a roller, used
to flatten new-made roads. 2 a crushing power or force.
--v.tr. 1 crush forcibly or indiscriminately. 2 (foll. by
through) force (a measure etc.) through a legislature by
overriding opposition.
steamship n. a ship propelled by a steam engine.
steamy adj. (steamier, steamiest) 1 like or full of steam. 2 colloq.
erotic, salacious. ЬЬsteamily adv. steaminess n.
stearic adj. derived from stearin. Ьstearic acid a solid saturated
fatty acid obtained from animal or vegetable fats. ЬЬstearate
n. [F st‚arique f. Gk stear steatos tallow]
stearin n. 1 a glyceryl ester of stearic acid, esp. in the form of a
white crystalline constituent of tallow etc. 2 a mixture of
fatty acids used in candle-making. [F st‚arine f. Gk stear
steatos tallow]
steatite n. a soapstone or other impure form of talc. ЬЬsteatitic adj.
[L steatitis f. Gk steatites f. stear steatos tallow]
steatopygia
n. an excess of fat on the buttocks. ЬЬsteatopygous adj.
[mod.L (as STEATITE + Gk puge rump)]
steed n. archaic or poet. a horse, esp. a fast powerful one. [OE
steda stallion, rel. to STUD(2)]
steel n., adj., & v. --n. 1 any of various alloys of iron and carbon
with other elements increasing strength and malleability, much
used for making tools, weapons, etc., and capable of being
tempered to many different degrees of hardness. 2 hardness of
character; strength, firmness (nerves of steel). 3 a a rod of
steel, usu. roughened and tapering, on which knives are
sharpened. b a strip of steel for expanding a skirt or
stiffening a corset. 4 (not in pl.) literary a sword, lance,
etc. (foemen worthy of their steel). --adj. 1 made of steel.
2 like or having the characteristics of steel. --v.tr. & refl.
harden or make resolute (steeled myself for a shock). Ьcold
steel cutting or thrusting weapons. pressed steel steel moulded
under pressure. steel band a group of usu. W. Indian musicians
with percussion instruments made from oil drums. steel-clad
wearing armour. steel engraving the process of engraving on or
an impression taken from a steel-coated copper plate. steel
wool an abrasive substance consisting of a mass of fine steel
shavings. [OE style, steli f. Gmc, rel. to STAY(2)]
steelhead n. a large N. American rainbow trout.
steelwork n. articles of steel.
steelworks
n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) a place where steel is
manufactured. ЬЬsteelworker n.
steely adj. (steelier, steeliest) 1 of, or hard as, steel. 2
inflexibly severe; cold; ruthless (steely composure; steely-eyed
glance). ЬЬsteeliness n.
steelyard n. a kind of balance with a short arm to take the item to be
weighed and a long graduated arm along which a weight is moved
until it balances.
steenbok n. an African dwarf-antelope, Raphicerus campestris. [Du. f.
steen STONE + bok BUCK(1)]
steep(1) adj. & n. --adj. 1 sloping sharply; almost perpendicular (a
steep hill; steep stairs). 2 (of a rise or fall) rapid (a steep
drop in share prices). 3 (predic.) colloq. a (of a demand,
price, etc.) exorbitant; unreasonable (esp. a bit steep). b
(of a story etc.) exaggerated; incredible. --n. a steep slope;
a precipice. ЬЬsteepen v.intr. & tr. steepish adj. steeply
adv. steepness n. [OE steap f. WG, rel. to STOOP(1)]
steep(2) v. & n. --v.tr. soak or bathe in liquid. --n. 1 the act or
process of steeping. 2 the liquid for steeping. Ьsteep in 1
pervade or imbue with (steeped in misery). 2 make deeply
acquainted with (a subject etc.) (steeped in the classics). [ME
f. OE f. Gmc (as STOUP)]
steeple n. a tall tower, esp. one surmounted by a spire, above the roof
of a church. Ьsteeple-crowned (of a hat) with a tall pointed
crown. ЬЬsteepled adj. [OE stepel stypel f. Gmc (as STEEP(1))]
steeplechase
n. 1 a horse-race (orig. with a steeple as the goal) across the
countryside or on a racecourse with ditches, hedges, etc., to
jump. 2 a cross-country foot-race. ЬЬsteeplechaser n.
steeplechasing n.
steeplejack
n. a person who climbs tall chimneys, steeples, etc., to do
repairs etc.
steer(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a guide (a vehicle, aircraft, etc.) by a
wheel etc. b guide (a vessel) by a rudder or helm. 2 intr.
guide a vessel or vehicle in a specified direction (tried to
steer left). 3 tr. direct (one's course). 4 intr. direct one's
course in a specified direction (steered for the railway
station). 5 tr. guide the movement or trend of (steered them
into the garden; steered the conversation away from that
subject). --n. US steering; guidance. Ьsteer clear of take
care to avoid. steering-column the shaft or column which
connects the steering-wheel, handlebars, etc. of a vehicle to
the rest of the steering-gear. steering committee a committee
deciding the order of dealing with business, or priorities and
the general course of operations. steering-wheel a wheel by
which a vehicle etc. is steered. ЬЬsteerable adj. steerer n.
steering n. (esp. in senses 1, 2 of v.). [OE stieran f. Gmc]
steer(2) n. a young male bovine animal, esp. one castrated and raised
for beef. [OE steor f. Gmc]
steerage n. 1 the act of steering. 2 the effect of the helm on a ship.
3 archaic the part of a ship allotted to passengers travelling
at the cheapest rate. 4 hist. (in a warship) quarters assigned
to midshipmen etc. just forward of the wardroom. Ьsteerage-way
the amount of headway required by a vessel to enable her to be
controlled by the helm.
steersman n. (pl. -men) a person who steers a vessel.
steeve(1) n. & v. Naut. --n. the angle of the bowsprit in relation to
the horizontal. --v. 1 intr. (of a bowsprit) make an angle
with the horizontal. 2 tr. cause (the bowsprit) to do this.
[17th c.: orig. unkn.]
steeve(2) n. & v. Naut. --n. a long spar used in stowing cargo. --v.tr.
stow with a steeve. [ME f. OF estiver or Sp. estivar f. L
stipare pack tight]
stegosaurus
n. any of a group of plant-eating dinosaurs with a double row
of large bony plates along the spine. [mod. L f. Gk stege
covering + sauros lizard]
stein n. a large earthenware mug, esp. for beer. [G, lit. 'stone']
steinbock n. 1 an ibex native to the Alps. 2 = STEENBOK. [G f. Stein
STONE + Bock BUCK(1)]
stela n. (pl. stelae) Archaeol. an upright slab or pillar usu. with
an inscription and sculpture, esp. as a gravestone. [L f. Gk
(as STELE)]
stele n. 1 Bot. the axial cylinder of vascular tissue in the stem and
roots of most plants. 2 Archaeol. = STELA. ЬЬstelar adj. [Gk
stele standing block]
stellar adj. of or relating to a star or stars. ЬЬstelliform adj. [LL
stellaris f. L stella star]
stellate adj. (also stellated) 1 arranged like a star; radiating. 2
Bot. (of leaves) surrounding the stem in a whorl. [L stellatus
f. stella star]
stellular adj. shaped like, or set with, small stars. [LL stellula
dimin. of L stella star]
stem(1) n. & v. --n. 1 the main body or stalk of a plant or shrub,
usu. rising into light, but occasionally subterranean. 2 the
stalk supporting a fruit, flower, or leaf, and attaching it to a
larger branch, twig, or stalk. 3 a stem-shaped part of an
object: a the slender part of a wineglass between the body and
the foot. b the tube of a tobacco-pipe. c a vertical stroke in
a letter or musical note. d the winding-shaft of a watch. 4
Gram. the root or main part of a noun, verb, etc., to which
inflections are added; the part that appears unchanged
throughout the cases and derivatives of a noun, persons of a
tense, etc. 5 Naut. the main upright timber or metal piece at
the bow of a ship to which the ship's sides are joined at the
fore end (from stem to stern). 6 a line of ancestry, branch of
a family, etc. (descended from an ancient stem). 7 (in full
drill stem) a rotating rod, cylinder, etc., used in drilling.
--v. (stemmed, stemming) 1 intr. (foll. by from) spring or
originate from (stems from a desire to win). 2 tr. remove the
stem or stems from (fruit, tobacco, etc.). 3 tr. (of a vessel
etc.) hold its own or make headway against (the tide etc.).
Ьstem cell Biol. an undifferentiated cell from which
specialized cells develop. stem stitch an embroidery stitch
used for narrow stems etc. stem-winder US a watch wound by
turning a head on the end of a stem rather than by a key.
ЬЬstemless adj. stemlet n. stemlike adj. stemmed adj. (also
in comb.). [OE stemn, stefn f. Gmc, rel. to STAND]
stem(2) v. & n. --v. (stemmed, stemming) 1 tr. check or stop. 2 tr.
dam up (a stream etc.). 3 intr. slide the tail of one ski or
both skis outwards usu. in order to turn or slow down. --n. an
act of stemming on skis. Ьstem-turn a turn on skis made by
stemming with one ski. [ON stemma f. Gmc: cf. STAMMER]
stemma n. (pl. stemmata) 1 a family tree; a pedigree. 2 the line of
descent e.g. of variant texts of a work. 3 Zool. a simple eye;
a facet of a compound eye. [L f. Gk stemma wreath f. stepho
wreathe]
stemple n. each of several crossbars in a mineshaft serving as supports
or steps. [17th c.: orig. uncert.: cf. MHG stempfel]
stemware n. US glasses with stems.
stench n. an offensive or foul smell. Ьstench trap a trap in a sewer
etc. to prevent the upward passage of gas. [OE stenc smell f.
Gmc, rel. to STINK]
stencil n. & v. --n. 1 (in full stencil-plate) a thin sheet of
plastic, metal, card, etc., in which a pattern or lettering is
cut, used to produce a corresponding pattern on the surface
beneath it by applying ink, paint, etc. 2 the pattern,
lettering, etc., produced by a stencil-plate. 3 a waxed sheet
etc. from which a stencil is made by means of a typewriter.
--v.tr. (stencilled, stencilling; US stenciled, stenciling) 1
(often foll. by on) produce (a pattern) with a stencil. 2
decorate or mark (a surface) in this way. [ME f. OF estanceler
sparkle, cover with stars, f. estencele spark ult. f. L
scintilla]
Sten gun n. a type of lightweight sub-machine-gun. [S and T (the
initials of the inventors' surnames, Shepherd and Turpin) + -en
after BREN]
steno n. (pl. -os) US colloq. a stenographer. [abbr.]
stenography
n. shorthand or the art of writing this. ЬЬstenographer n.
stenographic adj. [Gk stenos narrow + -GRAPHY]
stenosis n. Med. the abnormal narrowing of a passage in the body.
ЬЬstenotic adj. [mod.L f. Gk stenosis narrowing f. stenoo make
narrow f. stenos narrow]
stenotype n. 1 a machine like a typewriter for recording speech in
syllables or phonemes. 2 a symbol or the symbols used in this
process. ЬЬstenotypist n. [STENOGRAPHY + TYPE]
Stentor n. (also stentor) a person with a powerful voice. ЬЬstentorian
adj. [Gk Stentor, herald in the Trojan War (Homer, Iliad v.
785)]
step n. & v. --n. 1 a the complete movement of one leg in walking
or running (took a step forward). b the distance covered by
this. 2 a unit of movement in dancing. 3 a measure taken, esp.
one of several in a course of action (took steps to prevent it;
considered it a wise step). 4 a a surface on which a foot is
placed on ascending or descending a stair or tread. b a block
of stone or other platform before a door, altar, etc. c the
rung of a ladder. d a notch cut for a foot in ice-climbing. e
a platform etc. in a vehicle provided for stepping up or down.
5 a short distance (only a step from my door). 6 the sound or
mark made by a foot in walking etc. (heard a step on the
stairs). 7 the manner of walking etc. as seen or heard (know
her by her step). 8 a a degree in the scale of promotion,
advancement, or precedence. b one of a series of fixed points
on a payscale etc. 9 a stepping (or not stepping) in time with
others or music (esp. in or out of step). b the state of
conforming to what others are doing (refuses to keep step with
the team). 10 (in pl.) (also pair of steps sing.) = STEPLADDER.
11 esp. US Mus. a melodic interval of one degree of the scale,
i.e. a tone or semitone. 12 Naut. a block, socket, or platform
supporting a mast. --v. (stepped, stepping) 1 intr. lift and
set down one's foot or alternate feet in walking. 2 intr. come
or go in a specified direction by stepping. 3 intr. make
progress in a specified way (stepped into a new job). 4 tr.
(foll. by off, out) measure (distance) by stepping. 5 tr.
perform (a dance). 6 tr. Naut. set up (a mast) in a step. Ьin
a person's steps following a person's example. mind (or watch)
one's step be careful. step by step gradually; cautiously; by
stages or degrees. step-cut (of a gem) cut in straight facets
round the centre. step down 1 resign from a position etc. 2
Electr. decrease (voltage) by using a transformer. step in 1
enter a room, house, etc. 2 a intervene to help or hinder. b
act as a substitute for an indisposed colleague etc. step-in
attrib.adj. (of a garment) put on by being stepped into without
unfastening. --n. such a garment. step it dance. step on it
(or on the gas etc.) colloq. 1 accelerate a motor vehicle. 2
hurry up. step out 1 leave a room, house, etc. 2 be active
socially. 3 take large steps. stepping-stone 1 a raised stone,
usu. one of a set in a stream, muddy place, etc., to help in
crossing. 2 a means or stage of progress to an end. step this
way a deferential formula meaning 'follow me'. step up 1
increase, intensify (must step up production). 2 Electr.
increase (voltage) using a transformer. turn one's steps go in
a specified direction. ЬЬsteplike adj. stepped adj. stepwise
adv. & adj. [OE st‘pe, stepe (n.), st‘ppan, steppan (v.), f.
Gmc]
step- comb. form denoting a relationship like the one specified but
resulting from a parent's remarriage. [OE steop- orphan-]
stepbrother
n. a son of a step-parent by a marriage other than with one's
father or mother.
stepchild n. a child of one's husband or wife by a previous marriage.
[OE steopcild (as STEP-, CHILD)]
stepdaughter
n. a female stepchild. [OE steopdohtor (as STEP-, DAUGHTER)]
stepfather
n. a male step-parent. [OE steopf‘der (as STEP-, FATHER)]
stephanotis
n. any climbing tropical plant of the genus Stephanotis,
cultivated for its fragrant waxy usu. white flowers. [mod.L f.
Gk, = fit for a wreath f. stephanos wreath]
stepladder
n. a short ladder with flat steps and a folding prop, used
without being leant against a surface.
stepmother
n. a female step-parent. [OE steopmodor (as STEP-, MOTHER)]
step-parent
n. a mother's or father's later husband or wife.
steppe n. a level grassy unforested plain, esp. in SE Europe and
Siberia. [Russ step']
stepsister
n. a daughter of a step-parent by a marriage other than with
one's father or mother.
stepson n. a male stepchild. [OE steopsunu (as STEP-, SON)]
-ster suffix denoting a person engaged in or associated with a
particular activity or thing (brewster; gangster; youngster).
[OE -estre etc. f. Gmc]
steradian n. the SI unit of solid angle, equal to the angle at the centre
of a sphere subtended by a part of the surface equal in area to
the square of the radius. °Abbr.: sr. [Gk stereos solid +
RADIAN]
stercoraceous
adj. 1 consisting of or resembling dung or faeces. 2 living in
dung. [L stercus -oris dung]
stere n. a unit of volume equal to one cubic metre. [F stЉre f. Gk
stereos solid]
stereo n. & adj. --n. (pl. -os) 1 a a stereophonic record-player,
tape recorder, etc. b = STEREOPHONY (see STEREOPHONIC). 2 =
STEREOSCOPE. --adj. 1 = STEREOPHONIC. 2 = STEREOSCOPIC (see
stereoscope). [abbr.]
stereo- comb. form solid; having three dimensions. [Gk stereos solid]
stereobate
n. Archit. a solid mass of masonry as a foundation for a
building. [F st‚r‚obate f. L stereobata f. Gk stereobates (as
STEREO-, baino walk)]
stereochemistry
n. the branch of chemistry dealing with the three-dimensional
arrangement of atoms in molecules.
stereography
n. the art of depicting solid bodies in a plane.
stereoisomer
n. Chem. any of two or more compounds differing only in their
spatial arrangement of atoms.
stereometry
n. the measurement of solid bodies.
stereophonic
adj. (of sound reproduction) using two or more channels so that
the sound has the effect of being distributed and of coming from
more than one source. ЬЬstereophonically adv. stereophony n.
stereoscope
n. a device by which two photographs of the same object taken
at slightly different angles are viewed together, giving an
impression of depth and solidity as in ordinary human vision.
ЬЬstereoscopic adj. stereoscopically adv. stereoscopy n.
stereotype
n. & v. --n. 1 a a person or thing that conforms to an
unjustifiably fixed, usu. standardized, mental picture. b such
an impression or attitude. 2 a printing-plate cast from a mould
of composed type. --v.tr. 1 (esp. as stereotyped adj.)
formalize, standardize; cause to conform to a type. 2 a print
from a stereotype. b make a stereotype of. ЬЬstereotypic adj.
stereotypical adj. stereotypically adv. stereotypy n. [F
st‚r‚otype (adj.) (as STEREO-, TYPE)]
steric adj. Chem. relating to the spatial arrangement of atoms in a
molecule. Ьsteric hindrance the inhibiting of a chemical
reaction by the obstruction of reacting atoms. [irreg. f. Gk
stereos solid]
sterile adj. 1 not able to produce crop or fruit or (of an animal)
young; barren. 2 unfruitful, unproductive (sterile
discussions). 3 free from living micro-organisms etc. 4
lacking originality or emotive force; mentally barren.
ЬЬsterilely adv. sterility n. [F st‚rile or L sterilis]
sterilize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 make sterile. 2 deprive of the power of
reproduction. ЬЬsterilizable adj. sterilization n. sterilizer
n.
sterlet n. a small sturgeon, Acipenser ruthenus, found in the Caspian
Sea area and yielding fine caviare. [Russ. sterlyad']
sterling adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or in British money (pound sterling). 2
(of a coin or precious metal) genuine; of standard value or
purity. 3 (of a person or qualities etc.) of solid worth;
genuine, reliable (sterling work). --n. British money (paid in
sterling). Ьsterling area a group of countries with currencies
tied to British sterling and holding reserves mainly in
sterling. sterling silver silver of 92«% purity.
ЬЬsterlingness n. [prob. f. late OE steorling (unrecorded) f.
steorra star + -LING(1) (because some early Norman pennies bore
a small star): recorded earlier in OF esterlin]
stern(1) adj. severe, grim, strict; enforcing discipline or submission
(a stern expression; stern treatment). Ьthe sterner sex men.
ЬЬsternly adv. sternness n. [OE styrne, prob. f. a Gmc root =
be rigid]
stern(2) n. 1 the rear part of a ship or boat. 2 any rear part. Ьstern
foremost moving backwards. stern on with the stern presented.
stern-post the central upright support at the stern, usu.
bearing the rudder. ЬЬsterned adj. (also in comb.). sternmost
adj. sternward adj. & adv. sternwards adv. [ME prob. f. ON
stjўrn steering f. st°ra STEER(1)]
sternal adj. of or relating to the sternum. Ьsternal rib = true rib.
sternum n. (pl. sternums or sterna) the breastbone. [mod.L f. Gk
sternon chest]
sternutation
n. Med. or joc. a sneeze or attack of sneezing. [L
sternutatio f. sternutare frequent. of sternuere sneeze]
sternutator
n. a substance, esp. poison gas, that causes nasal irritation,
violent coughing, etc. ЬЬsternutatory adj. & n. (pl. -ies).
sternway n. Naut. a backward motion or impetus of a ship.
steroid n. Biochem. any of a group of organic compounds with a
characteristic structure of four rings of carbon atoms,
including many hormones, alkaloids, and vitamins. ЬЬsteroidal
adj. [STEROL + -OID]
sterol n. Chem. any of a group of naturally occurring steroid
alcohols. [CHOLESTEROL, ERGOSTEROL , etc.]
stertorous
adj. (of breathing etc.) heavy; sounding like snoring.
ЬЬstertorously adv. stertorousness n. [stertor, mod.L f. L
stertere snore]
stet v. (stetted, stetting) 1 intr. (usu. as an instruction written
on a proof-sheet etc.) ignore or cancel the correction or
alteration; let the original form stand. 2 tr. write 'stet'
against; cancel the correction of. [L, = let it stand, f.
stare stand]
stethoscope
n. an instrument used in listening to the action of the heart,
lungs, etc., usu. consisting of a circular piece placed against
the chest, with tubes leading to earpieces. ЬЬstethoscopic adj.
stethoscopically adv. stethoscopist n. stethoscopy n. [F
st‚thoscope f. Gk stethos breast: see -SCOPE]
stetson n. a slouch hat with a very wide brim and a high crown. [J. B.
Stetson, Amer. hat-maker d. 1906]
stevedore n. a person employed in loading and unloading ships. [Sp.
estivador f. estivar stow a cargo f. L stipare: see STEEVE(2)]
stevengraph
n. a colourful woven silk picture. [T. Stevens, Engl. weaver
d. 1888, whose firm made them]
stew(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. cook by long simmering in a closed
vessel with liquid. 2 intr. colloq. be oppressed by heat or
humidity, esp. in a confined space. 3 intr. colloq. a suffer
prolonged embarrassment, anxiety, etc. b (foll. by over) fret
or be anxious. 4 tr. make (tea) bitter or strong with prolonged
brewing. 5 tr. (as stewed adj.) colloq. drunk. 6 intr. (often
foll. by over) colloq. study hard. --n. 1 a dish of stewed
meat etc. 2 colloq. an agitated or angry state (be in a stew).
3 archaic a a hot bath. b (in pl.) a brothel. Ьstew in one's
own juice be left to suffer the consequences of one's own
actions. [ME f. OF estuve, estuver prob. ult. f. EX-(1) + Gk
tuphos smoke, steam]
stew(2) n. Brit. 1 an artificial oyster-bed. 2 a pond or large tank
for keeping fish for eating. [ME f. F estui f. estoier confine
ult. f. L studium: see STUDY]
steward n. & v. 1 a passengers' attendant on a ship or aircraft or
train. 2 an official appointed to keep order or supervise
arrangements at a meeting or show or demonstration etc. 3 =
shop steward. 4 a person responsible for supplies of food etc.
for a college or club etc. 5 a person employed to manage
another's property. 6 Brit. the title of several officers of
State or the royal household (Lord High Steward). --v.tr. act
as a steward of (will steward the meeting). ЬЬstewardship n.
[OE stiweard f. stig prob. = house, hall + weard WARD]
stewardess
n. a female steward, esp. on a ship or aircraft.
stg. abbr. sterling.
Sth. abbr. South.
sthenic adj. Med. (of a disease etc.) with a morbid increase of vital
action esp. of the heart and arteries. [Gk sthenos strength,
after asthenic]
stick(1) n. 1 a a short slender branch or length of wood broken or cut
from a tree. b this trimmed for use as a support or weapon. 2
a thin rod or spike of wood etc. for a particular purpose
(cocktail stick). 3 a an implement used to propel the ball in
hockey or polo etc. b (in pl.) the raising of the stick above
the shoulder in hockey. 4 a gear lever. 5 a conductor's baton.
6 a a slender piece of a thing, e.g. celery, dynamite,
deodorant, etc. b a number of bombs or paratroops released
rapidly from aircraft. 7 (often prec. by the) punishment, esp.
by beating. 8 colloq. adverse criticism; censure, reproof (took
a lot of stick). 9 colloq. a piece of wood as part of a house
or furniture (a few sticks of furniture). 10 colloq. a person,
esp. one who is dull or unsociable (a funny old stick). 11 (in
pl.; prec. by the) colloq. remote rural areas. 12 (in pl.)
Austral. sl. goalposts. 13 Naut. sl. a mast or spar. Ьstick
insect any usu. wingless female insect of the family Phasmidae
with a twiglike body. up sticks colloq. go to live elsewhere.
ЬЬstickless adj. sticklike adj. [OE sticca f. WG]
stick(2) v. (past and past part. stuck) 1 tr. (foll. by in, into,
through) insert or thrust (a thing or its point) (stuck a finger
in my eye; stick a pin through it). 2 tr. insert a pointed
thing into; stab. 3 tr. & intr. (foll. by in, into, on, etc.)
a fix or be fixed on a pointed thing. b fix or be fixed by or
as by a pointed end. 4 tr. & intr. fix or become or remain
fixed by or as by adhesive etc. (stick a label on it; the label
won't stick). 5 intr. endure; make a continued impression (the
scene stuck in my mind; the name stuck). 6 intr. lose or be
deprived of the power of motion or action through adhesion or
jamming or other impediment. 7 colloq. a tr. put in a
specified position or place, esp. quickly or haphazardly (stick
them down anywhere). b intr. remain in a place (stuck indoors).
8 colloq. a intr. (of an accusation etc.) be convincing or
regarded as valid (could not make the charges stick). b tr.
(foll. by on) place the blame for (a thing) on (a person). 9
tr. colloq. endure, tolerate (could not stick it any longer).
10 tr. (foll. by at) colloq. persevere with. Ьbe stuck for be
at a loss for or in need of. be stuck on colloq. be infatuated
with. be stuck with colloq. be unable to get rid of or escape
from; be permanently involved with. get stuck in (or into) sl.
begin in earnest. stick around colloq. linger; remain at the
same place. stick at it colloq. persevere. stick at nothing
allow nothing, esp. no scruples, to deter one. stick by (or
with or to) stay loyal or close to. stick 'em up! colloq.
hands up! stick fast adhere or become firmly fixed or trapped
in a position or place. stick in one's gizzard see GIZZARD.
sticking-plaster an adhesive plaster for wounds etc.
sticking-point the limit of progress, agreement, etc.
stick-in-the-mud colloq. an unprogressive or old-fashioned
person. stick in one's throat be against one's principles.
stick it on sl. 1 make high charges. 2 tell an exaggerated
story. stick it out colloq. put up with or persevere with a
burden etc. to the end. stick one's neck (or chin) out expose
oneself to censure etc. by acting or speaking boldly. stick out
protrude or cause to protrude or project (stuck his tongue out;
stick out your chest). stick out for persist in demanding.
stick out a mile (or like a sore thumb) colloq. be very obvious
or incongruous. stick pigs engage in pigsticking. stick to 1
remain close to or fixed on or to. 2 remain faithful to. 3
keep to (a subject etc.) (stick to the point). stick to a
person's fingers colloq. (of money) be embezzled by a person.
stick together colloq. remain united or mutually loyal. stick
to one's guns see GUN. stick to it persevere. stick to one's
last see LAST(3). stick up 1 be or make erect or protruding
upwards. 2 fasten to an upright surface. 3 colloq. rob or
threaten with a gun. stick-up n. colloq. an armed robbery.
stick up for support or defend or champion (a person or cause).
stick up to be assertive in the face of; offer resistance to.
stick with colloq. remain in touch with or faithful to.
stuck-up colloq. affectedly superior and aloof, snobbish.
ЬЬstickability n. [OE stician f. Gmc]
sticker n. 1 an adhesive label or notice etc. 2 a person or thing that
sticks. 3 a persistent person.
stickleback
n. any small fish of the family Gasterosteidae, esp.
Gasterosteus aculeatus, with sharp spines along the back. [ME
f. OE sticel thorn, sting + b‘c BACK]
stickler n. (foll. by for) a person who insists on something (a stickler
for accuracy). [obs. stickle be umpire, ME stightle control,
frequent. of stight f. OE stiht(i)an set in order]
stickpin n. US an ornamental tie-pin.
stickweed n. US = RAGWEED 2.
sticky adj. (stickier, stickiest) 1 tending or intended to stick or
adhere. 2 glutinous, viscous. 3 (of the weather) humid. 4
colloq. awkward or uncooperative; intransigent (was very sticky
about giving me leave). 5 colloq. difficult, awkward (a sticky
problem). 6 colloq. very unpleasant or painful (came to a
sticky end). Ьsticky wicket 1 Cricket a pitch that has been
drying after rain and is difficult for the batsman. 2 colloq.
difficult or awkward circumstances. ЬЬstickily adv. stickiness
n.
stickybeak
n. & v. Austral. & NZ sl. --n. an inquisitive person.
--v.intr. pry.
stiff adj. & n. --adj. 1 rigid; not flexible. 2 hard to bend or
move or turn etc.; not working freely. 3 hard to cope with;
needing strength or effort (a stiff test; a stiff climb). 4
severe or strong (a stiff breeze; a stiff penalty). 5 (of a
person or manner) formal, constrained; lacking spontaneity. 6
(of a muscle or limb etc., or a person affected by these) aching
when used, owing to previous exertion, injury, etc. 7 (of an
alcoholic or medicinal drink) strong. 8 (predic.) colloq. to an
extreme degree (bored stiff; scared stiff). 9 (foll. by with)
colloq. abounding in (a place stiff with tourists). --n. sl.
1 a corpse. 2 a foolish or useless person (you big stiff).
Ьstiff neck a rheumatic condition in which the head cannot be
turned without pain. stiff-necked obstinate or haughty. stiff
upper lip firmness, fortitude. ЬЬstiffish adj. stiffly adv.
stiffness n. [OE stif f. Gmc]
stiffen v.tr. & intr. make or become stiff. ЬЬstiffener n. stiffening
n.
stifle(1) v. 1 tr. smother, suppress (stifled a yawn). 2 intr. & tr.
experience or cause to experience constraint of breathing
(stifling heat). 3 tr. kill by suffocating. ЬЬstifler n.
stiflingly adv. [perh. alt. of ME stuffe, stuffle f. OF
estouffer]
stifle(2) n. (in full stifle-joint) a joint in the legs of horses, dogs,
etc., equivalent to the knee in humans. Ьstifle-bone the bone
in front of this joint. [ME: orig. unkn.]
stigma n. (pl. stigmas or esp. in sense 4 stigmata) 1 a mark or sign
of disgrace or discredit. 2 (foll. by of) a distinguishing mark
or characteristic. 3 the part of a pistil that receives the
pollen in pollination. 4 (in pl.) Eccl. (in Christian belief)
marks corresponding to those left on Christ's body by the
Crucifixion, said to have been impressed on the bodies of St
Francis of Assisi and others. 5 a mark or spot on the skin or
on a butterfly-wing. 6 Med. a visible sign or characteristic of
a disease. 7 an insect's spiracle. [L f. Gk stigma -atos a
mark made by a pointed instrument, a brand, a dot: rel. to
STICK(1)]
stigmatic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or relating to a stigma or stigmas. 2 =
ANASTIGMATIC. --n. Eccl. a person bearing stigmata.
ЬЬstigmatically adv.
stigmatist
n. Eccl. = STIGMATIC n.
stigmatize
v.tr. (also -ise) 1 (often foll. by as) describe as unworthy or
disgraceful. 2 Eccl. produce stigmata on. ЬЬstigmatization n.
[F stigmatiser or med.L stigmatizo f. Gk stigmatizo (as STIGMA)]
stilb n. a unit of luminance equal to one candela per square
centimetre. [F f. Gk stilbo glitter]
stilbene n. Chem. an aromatic hydrocarbon forming phosphorescent
crystals. [as STILB + -ENE]
stilboestrol
n. (US stilbestrol) a powerful synthetic oestrogen derived from
stilbene. [STILBENE + OESTRUS]
stile(1) n. an arrangement of steps allowing people but not animals to
climb over a fence or wall. [OE stigel f. a Gmc root stig-
(unrecorded) climb]
stile(2) n. a vertical piece in the frame of a panelled door, wainscot,
etc. (cf. RAIL(1) n. 5). [prob. f. Du. stijl pillar,
doorpost]
stiletto n. (pl. -os) 1 a short dagger with a thick blade. 2 a pointed
instrument for making eyelets etc. 3 (in full stiletto heel) a
a long tapering heel of a shoe. b a shoe with such a heel.
[It., dimin. of stilo dagger (as STYLUS)]
still(1) adj., n., adv., & v. --adj. 1 not or hardly moving. 2 with
little or no sound; calm and tranquil (a still evening). 3 (of
sounds) hushed, stilled. 4 (of a drink) not effervescing. --n.
1 deep silence (in the still of the night). 2 an ordinary
static photograph (as opposed to a motion picture), esp. a
single shot from a cinema film. --adv. 1 without moving (stand
still). 2 even now or at a particular time (they still did not
understand; why are you still here?). 3 nevertheless; all the
same. 4 (with compar. etc.) even, yet, increasingly (still
greater efforts; still another explanation). --v.tr. & intr.
make or become still; quieten. Ьstill and all colloq.
nevertheless. still life (pl. still lifes) 1 a painting or
drawing of inanimate objects such as fruit or flowers. 2 this
genre of painting. still waters run deep a quiet manner
conceals depths of feeling or knowledge or cunning. ЬЬstillness
n. [OE stille (adj. & adv.), stillan (v.), f. WG]
still(2) n. an apparatus for distilling spirituous liquors etc.
Ьstill-room Brit. 1 a room for distilling. 2 a housekeeper's
storeroom in a large house. [obs. still (v.), ME f. DISTILL]
stillage n. a bench, frame, etc., for keeping articles off the floor
while draining, drying, waiting to be packed, etc. [app. f. Du.
stellagie scaffold f. stellen to place + F -age]
stillbirth
n. the birth of a dead child.
stillborn adj. 1 (of a child) born dead. 2 (of an idea, plan, etc.)
abortive; not able to succeed.
Stillson n. (in full Stillson wrench) a large wrench with jaws that
tighten as pressure is increased. [D. C. Stillson, its
inventor d. 1899]
stilly adv. & adj. --adv. in a still manner. --adj. poet. still,
quiet. [(adv.) OE stillice: (adj.) f. STILL(1)]
stilt n. 1 either of a pair of poles with supports for the feet
enabling the user to walk at a distance above the ground. 2
each of a set of piles or posts supporting a building etc. 3 a
any wading bird of the genus Himantopus with long legs. b (in
comb.) denoting a long-legged kind of bird (stilt-petrel). 4 a
three-legged support for ceramic ware in a kiln. Ьon stilts 1
supported by stilts. 2 bombastic, stilted. ЬЬstiltless adj.
[ME & LG stilte f. Gmc]
stilted adj. 1 (of a literary style etc.) stiff and unnatural;
bombastic. 2 standing on stilts. 3 Archit. (of an arch) with
pieces of upright masonry between the imposts and the springers.
ЬЬstiltedly adv. stiltedness n.
Stilton n. propr. a kind of strong rich cheese, often with blue veins,
orig. made in Stilton in S. England.
stimulant adj. & n. --adj. that stimulates, esp. bodily or mental
activity. --n. 1 a stimulant substance, esp. a drug or
alcoholic drink. 2 a stimulating influence. [L stimulare
stimulant- urge, goad]
stimulate v.tr. 1 apply or act as a stimulus to. 2 animate, excite,
arouse. 3 be a stimulant to. ЬЬstimulating adj. stimulatingly
adv. stimulation n. stimulative adj. stimulator n.
stimulus n. (pl. stimuli) 1 a thing that rouses to activity or energy.
2 a stimulating or rousing effect. 3 a thing that evokes a
specific functional reaction in an organ or tissue. [L, = goad,
spur, incentive]
stimy var. of STYMIE.
sting n. & v. --n. 1 a sharp often poisonous wounding organ of an
insect, snake, nettle, etc. 2 a the act of inflicting a wound
with this. b the wound itself or the pain caused by it. 3 a
wounding or painful quality or effect (the sting of hunger;
stings of remorse). 4 pungency, sharpness, vigour (a sting in
the voice). 5 sl. a swindle or robbery. --v. (past and past
part. stung) 1 a tr. wound or pierce with a sting. b intr. be
able to sting; have a sting. 2 intr. & tr. feel or cause to
feel a tingling physical or sharp mental pain. 3 tr. (foll. by
into) incite by a strong or painful mental effect (was stung
into replying). 4 tr. sl. swindle or charge exorbitantly.
Ьstinging-nettle a nettle, Urtica dioica, having stinging hairs.
sting in the tail unexpected pain or difficulty at the end.
ЬЬstingingly adv. stingless adj. stinglike adj. [OE sting
(n.), stingan (v.), f. Gmc]
stingaree n. US & Austral. = STINGRAY.
stinger n. 1 a stinging insect, snake, nettle, etc. 2 a sharp painful
blow.
stingray n. any of various broad flat-fish esp. of the family
Dasyatidae, having a long poisonous serrated spine at the base
of its tail.
stingy adj. (stingier, stingiest) niggardly, mean. ЬЬstingily adv.
stinginess n. [perh. f. dial. stinge STING]
stink v. & n. --v. (past stank or stunk; past part. stunk) 1 intr.
emit a strong offensive smell. 2 tr. (often foll. by out) fill
(a place) with a stink. 3 tr. (foll. by out etc.) drive (a
person) out etc. by a stink. 4 intr. colloq. be or seem very
unpleasant, contemptible, or scandalous. 5 intr. (foll. by of)
colloq. have plenty of (esp. money). --n. 1 a strong or
offensive smell; a stench. 2 colloq. a row or fuss (the affair
caused quite a stink). Ьlike stink colloq. intensely;
extremely hard or fast etc. (working like stink). stink bomb a
device emitting a stink when exploded. [OE stincan ult. f. WG:
cf. STENCH]
stinker n. 1 a person or thing that stinks. 2 sl. an objectionable
person or thing. 3 sl. a a difficult task. b a letter etc.
conveying strong disapproval.
stinkhorn n. any foul-smelling fungus of the order Phallales.
stinking adj. & adv. --adj. 1 that stinks. 2 sl. very objectionable.
--adv. sl. extremely and usu. objectionably (stinking rich).
Ьstinking badger a teledu. ЬЬstinkingly adv.
stinko adj. sl. drunk.
stinkpot n. sl. 1 a term of contempt for a person. 2 a vehicle or boat
that emits foul exhaust fumes.
stinkweed n. = wall-rocket (see ROCKET(2)).
stinkwood n. an African tree, Ocotea bullata, with foul-smelling timber.
stint v. & n. --v.tr. 1 supply (food or aid etc.) in a niggardly
amount or grudgingly. 2 (often refl.) supply (a person etc.) in
this way. --n. 1 a limitation of supply or effort (without
stint). 2 a fixed or allotted amount of work (do one's stint).
3 a small sandpiper, esp. a dunlin. ЬЬstinter n. stintless
adj. [OE styntan to blunt, dull, f. Gmc, rel. to STUNT(1)]
stipe n. Bot. & Zool. a stalk or stem, esp. the support of a carpel,
the stalk of a frond, the stem of a fungus, or an eye-stalk.
ЬЬstipiform adj. stipitate adj. stipitiform adj. [F f. L
stipes: see STIPES]
stipel n. Bot. a secondary stipule at the base of the leaflets of a
compound leaf. ЬЬstipellate adj. [F stipelle f. mod.L stipella
dimin. (as STIPULE)]
stipend n. a fixed regular allowance or salary, esp. paid to a
clergyman. [ME f. OF stipend(i)e or L stipendium f. stips
wages + pendere to pay]
stipendiary
adj. & n. --adj. 1 receiving a stipend. 2 working for pay,
not voluntarily. --n. (pl. -ies) a person receiving a
stipend. Ьstipendiary magistrate a paid professional
magistrate. [L stipendiarius (as STIPEND)]
stipes n. (pl. stipites) = STIPE. [L, = log, tree-trunk]
stipple v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. draw or paint or engrave etc. with
dots instead of lines. 2 tr. roughen the surface of (paint,
cement, etc.). --n. 1 the process or technique of stippling.
2 the effect of stippling. ЬЬstippler n. stippling n. [Du.
stippelen frequent. of stippen to prick f. stip point]
stipulate(1)
v.tr. 1 demand or specify as part of a bargain or agreement. 2
(foll. by for) mention or insist upon as an essential condition.
3 (as stipulated adj.) laid down in the terms of an agreement.
ЬЬstipulation n. stipulator n. [L stipulari]
stipulate(2)
adj. Bot. having stipules. [L stipula (as STIPULE)]
stipule n. a small leaflike appendage to a leaf, usu. at the base of a
leaf-stem. ЬЬstipular adj. [F stipule or L stipula straw]
stir(1) v. & n. --v. (stirred, stirring) 1 tr. move a spoon or other
implement round and round in (a liquid etc.) to mix the
ingredients or constituents. 2 a tr. cause to move or be
disturbed, esp. slightly (a breeze stirred the lake). b intr.
be or begin to be in motion (not a creature was stirring). c
refl. rouse (oneself), esp. from a lethargic state. 3 intr.
rise from sleep (is still not stirring). 4 intr. (foll. by out
of) leave; go out of (esp. one's house). 5 tr. arouse or
inspire or excite (the emotions etc., or a person as regards
these) (was stirred to anger; it stirred the imagination). --n.
1 an act of stirring (give it a good stir). 2 commotion or
excitement; public attention (caused quite a stir). 3 the
slightest movement (not a stir). Ьnot stir a finger make no
effort to help. stir the blood inspire enthusiasm etc. stir in
mix (an added ingredient) with a substance by stirring. stir
one's stumps colloq. 1 begin to move. 2 become active. stir
up 1 mix thoroughly by stirring. 2 incite (trouble etc.) (loved
stirring things up). 3 stimulate, excite, arouse (stirred up
their curiosity). ЬЬstirless adj. stirrer n. [OE styrian f.
Gmc]
stir(2) n. sl. a prison (esp. in stir). Ьstir-crazy deranged from
long imprisonment. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
stir-fry v.tr. (-ies, -ied) fry rapidly while stirring and tossing.
stirk n. Brit. dial. a yearling bullock or heifer. [OE stirc,
perh. dimin. of steor STEER(2): see -OCK]
stirps n. (pl. stirpes) 1 Biol. a classificatory group. 2 Law a a
branch of a family. b its progenitor. [L, = stock]
stirrer n. 1 a thing or a person that stirs. 2 colloq. a troublemaker;
an agitator.
stirrup n. 1 each of a pair of devices attached to each side of a
horse's saddle, in the form of a loop with a flat base to
support the rider's foot. 2 (attrib.) having the shape of a
stirrup. 3 (in full stirrup bone) = STAPES. Ьstirrup-cup a cup
of wine etc. offered to a person about to depart, orig. on
horseback. stirrup-iron the metal loop of a stirrup.
stirrup-leather (or -strap) the strap attaching a stirrup to a
saddle. stirrup-pump a hand-operated water-pump with a
foot-rest, used to extinguish small fires. [OE stigrap f.
stigan climb (as STILE(1)) + ROPE]
stitch n. & v. --n. 1 a (in sewing or knitting or crocheting etc.) a
single pass of a needle or the thread or loop etc. resulting
from this. b a particular method of sewing or knitting etc. (am
learning a new stitch). 2 (usu. in pl.) Surgery each of the
loops of material used in sewing up a wound. 3 the least bit of
clothing (hadn't a stitch on). 4 an acute pain in the side of
the body induced by running etc. --v.tr. 1 sew; make stitches
(in). 2 join or close with stitches. Ьin stitches colloq.
laughing uncontrollably. a stitch in time a timely remedy.
stitch up 1 join or mend by sewing or stitching. 2 sl. betray
or cheat. ЬЬstitcher n. stitchery n. stitchless adj. [OE
stice f. Gmc, rel. to STICK(2)]
stitchwort
n. any plant of the genus Stellaria, esp. S. media with an
erect stem and white starry flowers, once thought to cure a
stitch in the side.
stiver n. the smallest quantity or amount (don't care a stiver). [Du.
stuiver a small coin, prob. rel. to STUB]
stoa n. (pl. stoas) 1 a portico or roofed colonnade in ancient
Greek architecture. 2 (the Stoa) the Stoic school of
philosophy. [Gk: cf. STOIC]
stoat n. a flesh-eating mammal, Mustela erminea, of the weasel
family, having brown fur in the summer turning mainly white in
the winter. Also called ERMINE. [ME: orig. unkn.]
stochastic
adj. 1 determined by a random distribution of probabilities. 2
(of a process) characterized by a sequence of random variables.
3 governed by the laws of probability. ЬЬstochastically adv.
[Gk stokhastikos f. stokhazomai aim at, guess f. stokhos aim]
stock n., adj., & v. --n. 1 a store of goods etc. ready for sale or
distribution etc. 2 a supply or quantity of anything for use
(lay in winter stocks of fuel; a great stock of information). 3
equipment or raw material for manufacture or trade etc.
(rolling-stock; paper stock). 4 a farm animals or equipment. b
= FATSTOCK. 5 a the capital of a business company. b shares in
this. 6 one's reputation or popularity (his stock is rising).
7 a money lent to a government at fixed interest. b the right
to receive such interest. 8 a line of ancestry; family origins
(comes of Cornish stock). 9 liquid made by stewing bones,
vegetables, fish, etc., as a basis for soup, gravy, sauce, etc.
10 any of various fragrant-flowered cruciferous plants of the
genus Matthiola or Malcolmia (orig. stock-gillyflower,
so-called because it had a stronger stem than the clove
gillyflower). 11 a plant into which a graft is inserted. 12
the main trunk of a tree etc. 13 (in pl.) hist. a timber frame
with holes for the feet and occas. the hands and head, in which
offenders were locked as a public punishment. 14 US a = stock
company. b the repertory of this. 15 a a base or support or
handle for an implement or machine. b the crossbar of an
anchor. 16 the butt of a rifle etc. 17 a = HEADSTOCK. b =
TAILSTOCK. 18 (in pl.) the supports for a ship during building.
19 a band of material worn round the neck esp. in horse-riding
or below a clerical collar. 20 hard solid brick pressed in a
mould. --adj. 1 kept in stock and so regularly available
(stock sizes). 2 perpetually repeated; hackneyed, conventional
(a stock answer). --v.tr. 1 have or keep (goods) in stock. 2
a provide (a shop or a farm etc.) with goods, equipment, or
livestock. b fill with items needed (shelves well-stocked with
books). 3 fit (a gun etc.) with a stock. Ьin stock available
immediately for sale etc. on the stocks in construction or
preparation. out of stock not immediately available for sale.
stock-book a book showing amounts of goods acquired and disposed
of. stock-car 1 a specially strengthened production car for use
in racing in which collision occurs. 2 US a railway truck for
transporting livestock. stock company US a repertory company
performing mainly at a particular theatre. stock dove a
European wild pigeon, Columba oenas, with a shorter tail and
squarer head than a wood pigeon and breeding in tree-trunks.
Stock Exchange 1 a place where stocks and shares are bought and
sold. 2 the dealers working there. stock-in-trade 1 all the
requisites of a trade or profession. 2 a ready supply of
characteristic phrases, attitudes, etc. stock market 1 = Stock
Exchange. 2 transactions on this. stock-still motionless.
stock up 1 provide with or get stocks or supplies. 2 (foll. by
with) get in or gather a stock of (food, fuel, etc.). take
stock 1 make an inventory of one's stock. 2 (often foll. by of)
make a review or estimate of (a situation etc.). 3 (foll. by
in) concern oneself with. ЬЬstocker n. stockless adj. [OE
stoc, stocc f. Gmc]
stockade n. & v. --n. a line or enclosure of upright stakes. --v.tr.
fortify with a stockade. [obs. F estocade, alt. of estacade f.
Sp. estacada: rel. to STAKE(1)]
stockbreeder
n. a farmer who raises livestock. ЬЬstockbreeding n.
stockbroker
n. = BROKER 2. Ьstockbroker belt Brit. an affluent
residential area, esp. near a business centre such as London.
ЬЬstockbrokerage n. stockbroking n.
stockfish n. cod or a similar fish split and dried in the open air
without salt.
stockholder
n. an owner of stocks or shares. ЬЬstockholding n.
stockinet n. (also stockinette) an elastic knitted material. [prob. f.
stocking-net]
stocking n. 1 a either of a pair of long separate coverings for the legs
and feet, usu. close-woven in wool or nylon and worn esp. by
women and girls. b esp. US = SOCK(1). 2 any close-fitting
garment resembling a stocking (bodystocking). 3 a
differently-coloured, usu. white, lower part of the leg of a
horse etc. Ьin one's stocking (or stockinged) feet without
shoes (esp. while being measured). stocking cap a knitted usu.
conical cap. stocking-filler Brit. a small present suitable
for a Christmas stocking. stocking-stitch Knitting a stitch of
alternate rows of plain and purl, making an even pattern.
ЬЬstockinged adj. (also in comb.). stockingless adj. [STOCK in
(now dial.) sense 'stocking' + -ING(1)]
stockist n. Brit. a dealer who stocks goods of a particular type for
sale.
stockjobber
n. 1 Brit. = JOBBER 1. 2 US = JOBBER 2b. ЬЬstockjobbing n.
stocklist n. Brit. a regular publication stating a dealer's stock of
goods with current prices etc.
stockman n. (pl. -men) 1 a Austral. a man in charge of livestock. b US
an owner of livestock. 2 US a person in charge of a stock of
goods in a warehouse etc.
stockpile n. & v. --n. an accumulated stock of goods, materials, weapons,
etc., held in reserve. --v.tr. accumulate a stockpile of.
ЬЬstockpiler n.
stockpot n. a pot for cooking stock for soup etc.
stockroom n. a room for storing goods in stock.
stocktaking
n. 1 the process of making an inventory of stock in a shop etc.
2 a review of one's position and resources.
stocky adj. (stockier, stockiest) (of a person, plant, or animal)
short and strongly built; thickset. ЬЬstockily adv. stockiness
n.
stockyard n. an enclosure with pens etc. for sorting or temporary keeping
of cattle.
stodge n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 food esp. of a thick heavy kind. 2 an
unimaginative person or idea. --v.tr. stuff with food etc.
[earlier as verb: imit., after stuff and podge]
stodgy adj. (stodgier, stodgiest) 1 (of food) heavy and indigestible.
2 dull and uninteresting. 3 (of a literary style etc.) turgid
and dull. ЬЬstodgily adv. stodginess n.
stoep n. S.Afr. a terraced veranda in front of a house. [Du., rel.
to STEP]
stogy n. (also stogie) (pl. -ies) US 1 a long narrow roughly-made
cigar. 2 a rough heavy boot. [orig. stoga, short for
Conestoga in Pennsylvania]
Stoic n. & adj. --n. 1 a member of the ancient Greek school of
philosophy founded at Athens by Zeno c.308 BC, which sought
virtue as the greatest good and taught control of one's feelings
and passions. 2 (stoic) a stoical person. --adj. 1 of or like
the Stoics. 2 (stoic) = STOICAL. [ME f. L stoicus f. Gk
stoikos f. STOA (with ref. to Zeno's teaching in the Stoa
Poikile or Painted Porch at Athens)]
stoical adj. having or showing great self-control in adversity.
ЬЬstoically adv.
stoichiometry
n. (also stoichometry) Chem. 1 the fixed, usu. rational
numerical relationship between the relative quantities of
substances in a reaction or compound. 2 the determination or
measurement of these quantities. ЬЬstoichiometric adj. [Gk
stoikheion element + -METRY]
Stoicism n. 1 the philosophy of the Stoics. 2 (stoicism) a stoical
attitude.
stoke v. (often foll. by up) 1 a tr. feed and tend (a fire or furnace
etc.). b intr. act as a stoker. 2 intr. colloq. consume food,
esp. steadily and in large quantities. [back-form. f. STOKER]
stokehold n. a compartment in a steamship, containing its boilers and
furnace.
stokehole n. a space for stokers in front of a furnace.
stoker n. a person who tends to the furnace on a steamship. [Du. f.
stoken stoke f. MDu. stoken push, rel. to STICK(1)]
stokes n. (pl. same) the cgs unit of kinematic viscosity,
corresponding to a dynamic viscosity of 1 poise and a density of
1 gram per cubic centimetre, equivalent to 10(-4) square metres
per second. [Sir G. G. Stokes, Brit. physicist d. 1903]
STOL abbr. Aeron. short take-off and landing.
stole(1) n. 1 a woman's long garment like a scarf, worn over the
shoulders. 2 a strip of silk etc. worn similarly as a vestment
by a priest. [OE stol, stole (orig. a long robe) f. L stola f.
Gk stole equipment, clothing]
stole(2) past of STEAL.
stolen past part. of STEAL.
stolid adj. 1 lacking or concealing emotion or animation. 2 not
easily excited or moved. ЬЬstolidity n. stolidly adv.
stolidness n. [obs. F stolide or L stolidus]
stolon n. 1 Bot. a horizontal stem or branch that takes root at points
along its length, forming new plants. 2 Zool. a branched
stemlike structure in some invertebrates such as corals.
ЬЬstolonate adj. stoloniferous adj. [L stolo -onis]
stoma n. (pl. stomas or stomata) 1 Bot. a minute pore in the
epidermis of a leaf. 2 a Zool. a small mouthlike opening in
some lower animals. b Surgery a similar artificial orifice made
in the stomach. ЬЬstomal adj. [mod.L f. Gk stoma -atos mouth]
stomach n. & v. --n. 1 a the internal organ in which the first part of
digestion occurs, being in man a pear-shaped enlargement of the
alimentary canal linking the oesophagus to the small intestine.
b any of several such organs in animals, esp. ruminants, in
which there are four (cf. RUMEN, RETICULUM, OMASUM, ABOMASUM).
2 a the belly, abdomen, or lower front of the body (pit of the
stomach). b a protuberant belly (what a stomach he has got!).
3 (usu. foll. by for) a an appetite (for food). b liking,
readiness, or inclination (for controversy, conflict, danger, or
an undertaking) (had no stomach for the fight). --v.tr. 1 find
sufficiently palatable to swallow or keep down. 2 submit to or
endure (an affront etc.) (usu. with neg.: cannot stomach it).
Ьmuscular stomach any organ that grinds or squeezes to aid
digestion, such as a gizzard. on an empty stomach not having
eaten recently. on a full stomach soon after a large meal.
stomach-ache a pain in the belly or bowels. stomach-pump a
syringe for forcing liquid etc. into or out of the stomach.
stomach-tube a tube introduced into the stomach via the gullet
for cleansing or emptying it. stomach upset (or upset stomach)
a temporary slight disorder of the digestive system.
ЬЬstomachful n. (pl. -fuls). stomachless adj. [ME stomak f.
OF stomaque, estomac f. L stomachus f. Gk stomakhos gullet f.
stoma mouth]
stomacher n. hist. 1 a pointed front-piece of a woman's dress covering
the breast and pit of the stomach, often jewelled or
embroidered. 2 an ornament worn on the front of a bodice. [ME,
prob. f. OF estomachier (as STOMACH)]
stomachic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of or relating to the stomach. 2 promoting
the appetite or assisting digestion. --n. a medicine or
stimulant for the stomach. [F stomachique or L stomachicus f.
Gk stomakhikos (as STOMACH)]
stomata pl. of STOMA.
stomatitis
n. Med. inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth.
stomatology
n. the scientific study of the mouth or its diseases.
ЬЬstomatological adj. stomatologist n.
stomp v. & n. --v.intr. tread or stamp heavily. --n. a lively jazz
dance with heavy stamping. ЬЬstomper n. [US dial. var. of
STAMP]
stone n. & v. --n. 1 a solid non-metallic mineral matter, of which
rock is made. b a piece of this, esp. a small piece. 2
Building a = LIMESTONE (Portland stone). b = SANDSTONE (Bath
stone). 3 Mineral. = precious stone. 4 a stony meteorite, an
aerolite. 5 (often in comb.) a piece of stone of a definite
shape or for a particular purpose (tombstone; stepping-stone).
6 a a thing resembling stone in hardness or form, e.g. the hard
case of the kernel in some fruits. b Med. (often in pl.) a hard
morbid concretion in the body esp. in the kidney or gall-bladder
(gallstones). 7 (pl. same) Brit. a unit of weight equal to 14
lb. (6.35 kg). 8 (attrib.) a made of stone. b of the colour of
stone. --v.tr. 1 pelt with stones. 2 remove the stones from
(fruit). 3 face or pave etc. with stone. Ьcast (or throw)
stones (or the first stone) make aspersions on a person's
character etc. leave no stone unturned try all possible means.
Stone Age a prehistoric period when weapons and tools were made
of stone. stone-coal anthracite. stone-cold completely cold.
stone-cold sober completely sober. stone the crows Brit. sl.
an exclamation of surprise or disgust. stone curlew any mottled
brown and grey wader of the family Burhinidae, esp. Burhinus
oedicnemus, inhabiting esp. stony open country. stone-dead
completely dead. stone-deaf completely deaf. stone-fruit a
fruit with flesh or pulp enclosing a stone. stone parsley an
umbelliferous hedge-plant, Sison amomum, with aromatic seeds.
stone pine a S. European pine-tree, Pinus pinea, with branches
at the top spreading like an umbrella. stone-pit a quarry. a
stone's throw a short distance. ЬЬstoned adj. (also in comb.).
stoneless adj. stoner n. [OE stan f. Gmc]
stonechat n. any small brown bird of the thrush family with black and
white markings, esp. Saxicola torquata with a call like stones
being knocked together.
stonecrop n. any succulent plant of the genus Sedum, usu. having yellow
or white flowers and growing amongst rocks or in walls.
stonecutter
n. a person or machine that cuts or carves stone.
stoned adj. sl. under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
stonefish n. (pl. same) a venomous tropical fish, Synanceia verrucosa,
with poison glands underlying its erect dorsal spines. Also
called DEVILFISH.
stonefly n. (pl. -flies) any insect of the order Plecoptera, with
aquatic larvae found under stones.
stoneground
adj. (of flour) ground with millstones.
stonehatch
n. a ringed plover.
stonemason
n. a person who cuts, prepares, and builds with stone.
ЬЬstonemasonry n.
stonewall v. 1 tr. & intr. obstruct (discussion or investigation) or be
obstructive with evasive answers or denials etc. 2 intr.
Cricket bat with excessive caution. ЬЬstonewaller n.
stonewalling n.
stoneware n. ceramic ware which is impermeable and partly vitrified but
opaque.
stonewashed
adj. (of a garment or fabric, esp. denim) washed with abrasives
to produce a worn or faded appearance.
stoneweed n. = GROMWELL.
stonework n. 1 masonry. 2 the parts of a building made of stone.
ЬЬstoneworker n.
stonewort n. 1 = stone parsley. 2 any plant of the genus Chara, with a
calcareous deposit on the stem.
stonkered adj. Austral. & NZ sl. utterly defeated or exhausted. [20th
c.: orig. unkn.]
stony adj. (stonier, stoniest) 1 full of or covered with stones
(stony soil; a stony road). 2 a hard, rigid. b cold,
unfeeling, uncompromising (a stony stare; a stony silence).
Ьstony-broke Brit. sl. entirely without money. stony-hearted
unfeeling, obdurate. ЬЬstonily adv. stoniness n. [OE stanig
(as STONE)]
stood past and past part. of STAND.
stooge n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 a butt or foil, esp. for a comedian.
2 an assistant or subordinate, esp. for routine or unpleasant
work. 3 a compliant person; a puppet. --v.intr. 1 (foll. by
for) act as a stooge for. 2 (foll. by about, around, etc.) move
about aimlessly. [20th c.: orig. unkn.]
stook n. & v. --n. a group of sheaves of grain stood on end in a
field. --v.tr. arrange in stooks. [ME stouk, from or rel. to
MLG stuke]
stool n. & v. --n. 1 a seat without a back or arms, usu. for one
person and consisting of a wooden slab on three or four short
legs. 2 a = FOOTSTOOL. b a low bench for kneeling on. 3 (usu.
in pl.) = FAECES. 4 the root or stump of a tree or plant from
which the shoots spring. 5 US a decoy-bird in hunting.
--v.intr. (of a plant) throw up shoots from the root. Ьfall
between two stools fail from vacillation between two courses
etc. stool-pigeon 1 a person acting as a decoy (orig. a decoy
of a pigeon fixed to a stool). 2 a police informer. [OE stol
f. Gmc, rel. to STAND]
stoolball n. a team-game played in the UK, with a bat and ball and pairs
of batters scoring runs between bases.
stoolie n. US sl. a person acting as a stool-pigeon.
stoop(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. bend (one's head or body) forwards and
downwards. 2 intr. carry one's head and shoulders bowed
forward. 3 intr. (foll. by to + infin.) deign or condescend. 4
intr. (foll. by to) descend or lower oneself to (some conduct)
(has stooped to crime). 5 intr. (of a hawk etc.) swoop on its
prey. --n. 1 a stooping posture. 2 the downward swoop of a
hawk etc. [OE stupian f. Gmc, rel. to STEEP(1)]
stoop(2) n. US a porch or small veranda or set of steps in front of a
house. [Du. stoep: see STOEP]
stoop(3) var. of STOUP.
stop v. & n. --v. (stopped, stopping) 1 tr. a put an end to
(motion etc.); completely check the progress or motion or
operation of. b effectively hinder or prevent (stopped them
playing so loudly). c discontinue (an action or sequence of
actions) (stopped playing; stopped my visits). 2 intr. come to
an end; cease (supplies suddenly stopped). 3 intr. cease from
motion or speaking or action; make a halt or pause (the car
stopped at the lights; he stopped in the middle of a sentence;
my watch has stopped). 4 tr. cause to cease action; defeat. 5
tr. sl. receive (a blow etc.). 6 intr. remain; stay for a
short time. 7 tr. (often foll. by up) block or close up (a hole
or leak etc.). 8 tr. not permit or supply as usual; discontinue
or withhold (shall stop their wages). 9 tr. (in full stop
payment of or on) instruct a bank to withhold payment on (a
cheque). 10 tr. Brit. put a filling in (a tooth). 11 tr.
obtain the required pitch from (the string of a violin etc.) by
pressing at the appropriate point with the finger. 12 tr. plug
the upper end of (an organ-pipe), giving a note an octave lower.
13 tr. Bridge be able to prevent opponents from taking all the
tricks in (a suit). 14 tr. make (a sound) inaudible. 15 tr.
Boxing a parry (a blow). b knock out (an opponent). 16 tr.
Hort. pinch back (a plant). 17 tr. make (a clock, factory,
etc.) cease working. 18 tr. Brit. provide with punctuation.
19 tr. Naut. make fast; stopper (a cable etc.). --n. 1 the
act or an instance of stopping; the state of being stopped (put
a stop to; the vehicle was brought to a stop). 2 a place
designated for a bus or train etc. to stop. 3 a punctuation
mark, esp. = full stop (see FULL(1)). 4 a device for stopping
motion at a particular point. 5 a change of pitch effected by
stopping a string. 6 a (in an organ) a row of pipes of one
character. b a knob etc. operating these. 7 a manner of speech
adopted to produce a particular effect. 8 Optics & Photog. =
DIAPHRAGM 3. 9 a the effective diameter of a lens. b a device
for reducing this. c a unit of change of relative aperture or
exposure (with a reduction of one stop equivalent to halving
it). 10 (of sound) = PLOSIVE. 11 (in telegrams etc.) a full
stop (see FULL(1)). 12 Bridge a card or cards stopping a suit.
13 Naut. a small line used as a lashing. Ьput a stop to cause
to end, esp. abruptly. stop at nothing be ruthless. stop by
(also absol.) call at (a place). stop dead (or short) cease
abruptly. stop down Photog. reduce the aperture of (a lens)
with a diaphragm. stop-drill a drill with a shoulder limiting
the depth of penetration. stop one's ears 1 put one's fingers
in one's ears to avoid hearing. 2 refuse to listen. stop a gap
serve to meet a temporary need. stop-go 1 alternate stopping
and restarting of progress. 2 Brit. the alternate restriction
and stimulation of economic demand. stop-knob a knob
controlling an organ stop. stop lamp a light on the rear of a
vehicle showing when the brakes are applied. stop light 1 a red
traffic-light. 2 = stop lamp. stop a person's mouth induce a
person by bribery or other means to keep silence about
something. stop off (or over) break one's journey. stop out 1
stay out. 2 cover (part of an area) to prevent printing,
etching, etc. stop payment declare oneself insolvent. stop
press Brit. 1 (often attrib.) late news inserted in a newspaper
after printing has begun. 2 a column in a newspaper reserved
for this. stop valve a valve closing a pipe against the passage
of liquid. stop-volley (esp. in lawn tennis) a checked volley
close to the net, dropping the ball dead on the other side.
with all the stops out exerting extreme effort. ЬЬstopless adj.
stoppable adj. [ME f. OE -stoppian f. LL stuppare STUFF: see
ESTOP]
stopbank n. Austral. & NZ an embankment built to prevent river-flooding.
stopcock n. an externally operated valve regulating the flow of a liquid
or gas through a pipe etc.
stope n. a steplike part of a mine where ore etc. is being extracted.
[app. rel. to STEP n.]
stopgap n. (often attrib.) a temporary substitute.
stopoff n. a break in one's journey.
stopover n. = STOPOFF.
stoppage n. 1 the condition of being blocked or stopped. 2 a stopping
(of pay). 3 a stopping or interruption of work in a factory
etc.
stopper n. & v. --n. 1 a plug for closing a bottle etc. 2 a person or
thing that stops something. 3 Naut. a rope or clamp etc. for
checking and holding a rope cable or chain cable. --v.tr. close
or secure with a stopper. Ьput a stopper on 1 put an end to (a
thing). 2 keep (a person) quiet.
stopping n. Brit. a filling for a tooth.
stopple n. & v. --n. a stopper or plug. --v.tr. close with a stopple.
[ME: partly f. STOP + -LE(1), partly f. ESTOPPEL]
stopwatch n. a watch with a mechanism for recording elapsed time, used to
time races etc.
storage n. 1 a the storing of goods etc. b a particular method of
storing or the space available for it. 2 the cost of storing.
3 the electronic retention of data in a computer etc. Ьstorage
battery (or cell) a battery (or cell) for storing electricity.
storage heater Brit. an electric heater accumulating heat
outside peak hours for later release.
storax n. 1 a a fragrant resin, obtained from the tree Styrax
officinalis and formerly used in perfume. b this tree. 2 (in
full Levant or liquid storax) a balsam obtained from the tree
Liquidambar orientalis. [L f. Gk, var. of STYRAX]
store n. & v. --n. 1 a quantity of something kept available for use
(a store of wine; a store of wit). 2 (in pl.) a articles for a
particular purpose accumulated for use (naval stores). b a
supply of these or the place where they are kept. 3 a =
department store. b esp. US any retail outlet or shop. c
(often in pl.) a shop selling basic necessities (general
stores). 4 a warehouse for the temporary keeping of furniture
etc. 5 a device in a computer for storing retrievable data; a
memory. --v.tr. 1 put (furniture etc.) in store. 2 (often
foll. by up, away) accumulate (stores, energy, electricity,
etc.) for future use. 3 stock or provide with something useful
(a mind stored with facts). 4 (of a receptacle) have storage
capacity for. 5 enter or retain (data) for retrieval. Ьin
store 1 kept in readiness. 2 coming in the future. 3 (foll. by
for) destined or intended. set (or lay or put) store by (or on)
consider important or valuable. ЬЬstorable adj. storer n. [ME
f. obs. astore (n. & v.) f. OF estore, estorer f. L instaurare
renew: cf. RESTORE]
storefront
n. esp. US 1 the side of a shop facing the street. 2 a room
at the front of a shop.
storehouse
n. a place where things are stored.
storekeeper
n. 1 a storeman. 2 US a shopkeeper.
storeman n. (pl. -men) a person responsible for stored goods.
storeroom n. a room in which items are stored.
storey n. (also story) (pl. -eys or -ies) 1 any of the parts into
which a building is divided horizontally; the whole of the rooms
etc. having a continuous floor (a third-storey window; a house
of five storeys). 2 a thing forming a horizontal division.
ЬЬ-storeyed (in comb.) (also -storied). [ME f. AL historia
HISTORY (perh. orig. meaning a tier of painted windows or
sculpture)]
storiated adj. decorated with historical, legendary, or emblematic
designs. ЬЬstoriation n. [shortening of HISTORIATED]
storied adj. literary celebrated in or associated with stories or
legends.
stork n. 1 any long-legged large wading bird of the family
Ciconiidae, esp. Ciconia ciconia with white plumage, black
wing-tips, a long reddish beak, and red feet, nesting esp. on
tall buildings. 2 this bird as the pretended bringer of babies.
Ьstork's-bill a plant of the genus Pelargonium or Erodium. [OE
storc, prob. rel. to STARK (from its rigid posture)]
storm n. & v. --n. 1 a violent disturbance of the atmosphere with
strong winds and usu. with thunder and rain or snow etc. 2
Meteorol. a wind intermediate between gale and hurricane, esp.
(on the Beaufort scale) of 55-72 m.p.h. 3 a violent disturbance
of the established order in human affairs. 4 (foll. by of) a a
violent shower of missiles or blows. b an outbreak of applause,
indignation, hisses, etc. (they were greeted by a storm of
abuse). 5 a a direct assault by troops on a fortified place. b
the capture of a place by such an assault. --v. 1 intr. (often
foll. by at, away) talk violently, rage, bluster. 2 intr. (usu.
foll. by in, out of, etc.) move violently or angrily (stormed
out of the meeting). 3 tr. attack or capture by storm. 4 intr.
(of wind, rain, etc.) rage; be violent. Ьstorm-bird = storm
petrel. storm centre 1 the point to which the wind blows
spirally inward in a cyclonic storm. 2 a subject etc. upon
which agitation or disturbance is concentrated. storm cloud 1 a
heavy rain-cloud. 2 a threatening state of affairs. storm-cock
a mistle-thrush. storm-collar a high coat-collar that can be
turned up and fastened. storm cone Brit. a tarred-canvas cone
hoisted as a warning of high wind, upright for the north and
inverted for the south. storm-door an additional outer door for
protection in bad weather or winter. storm-finch Brit. = storm
petrel. storm-glass a sealed tube containing a solution of
which the clarity is thought to change when storms approach.
storming-party a detachment of troops ordered to begin an
assault. storm in a teacup Brit. great excitement over a
trivial matter. storm-lantern Brit. a hurricane lamp. storm
petrel 1 a small petrel, Hydrobates pelagicus, of the North
Atlantic, with black and white plumage. 2 a person causing
unrest. storm-sail a sail of smaller size and stouter canvas
than the corresponding one used in ordinary weather.
storm-signal a device warning of an approaching storm. storm
trooper 1 hist. a member of the Nazi political militia. 2 a
member of the shock troops. storm troops 1 = shock troops (see
SHOCK(1)). 2 hist. the Nazi political militia. storm window an
additional outer sash-window used like a storm-door. take by
storm 1 capture by direct assault. 2 rapidly captivate (a
person, audience, etc.). ЬЬstormless adj. stormproof adj. [OE
f. Gmc]
stormbound
adj. prevented by storms from leaving port or continuing a
voyage.
stormy adj. (stormier, stormiest) 1 of or affected by storms. 2 (of a
wind etc.) violent, raging, vehement. 3 full of feeling or
outbursts; lively, boisterous (a stormy meeting). Ьstormy
petrel = storm petrel. ЬЬstormily adv. storminess n.
story(1) n. (pl. -ies) 1 an account of imaginary or past events; a
narrative, tale, or anecdote. 2 the past course of the life of
a person or institution etc. (my story is a strange one). 3
(in full story-line) the narrative or plot of a novel or play
etc. 4 facts or experiences that deserve narration. 5 colloq.
a fib or lie. 6 a narrative or descriptive item of news. Ьthe
old (or same old) story the familiar or predictable course of
events. story-book 1 a book of stories for children. 2
(attrib.) unreal, romantic (a story-book ending). the story
goes it is said. to cut (or make) a long story short a formula
excusing the omission of details. [ME storie f. AF estorie (OF
estoire) f. L historia (as HISTORY)]
story(2) var. of STOREY.
storyboard
n. a displayed sequence of pictures etc. outlining the plan of
a film, television advertisement, etc.
storyteller
n. 1 a person who tells stories. 2 colloq. a liar.
ЬЬstorytelling n. & adj.
stoup n. (also stoop) 1 a holy-water basin. 2 archaic a flagon,
beaker, or drinking-vessel. [ME f. ON staup (= OE steap) f.
Gmc, rel. to STEEP(2)]
stoush v. & n. Austral. & NZ sl. --v.tr. 1 hit; fight with. 2
attack verbally. --n. a fight; a beating. [19th c.: orig.
uncert.]
stout adj. & n. --adj. 1 rather fat; corpulent; bulky. 2 of
considerable thickness or strength (a stout stick). 3 brave,
resolute, vigorous (a stout fellow; put up stout resistance).
--n. a strong dark beer brewed with roasted malt or barley. Ьa
stout heart courage, resolve. stout-hearted courageous.
stout-heartedly courageously. stout-heartedness courage.
ЬЬstoutish adj. stoutly adv. stoutness n. [ME f. AF & dial.
OF stout f. WG, perh. rel. to STILT]
stove(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a closed apparatus burning fuel or electricity
for heating or cooking. 2 Brit. Hort. a hothouse with
artificial heat. --v.tr. Brit. force or raise (plants) in a
stove. Ьstove-enamel a heatproof enamel produced by the
treatment of enamelled objects in a stove. stove-pipe a pipe
conducting smoke and gases from a stove to a chimney.
stove-pipe hat colloq. a tall silk hat. [ME = sweating-room,
f. MDu., MLG stove, OHG stuba f. Gmc, perh. rel. to STEW(1)]
stove(2) past and past part. of STAVE v.
stow v.tr. 1 pack (goods etc.) tidily and compactly. 2 Naut. place
(a cargo or provisions) in its proper place and order. 3 fill
(a receptacle) with articles compactly arranged. 4 (usu. in
imper.) sl. abstain or cease from (stow the noise!). Ьstow away
1 place (a thing) where it will not cause an obstruction. 2 be
a stowaway on a ship etc. [ME, f. BESTOW: in Naut. use perh.
infl. by Du. stouwen]
stowage n. 1 the act or an instance of stowing. 2 a place for this.
stowaway n. a person who hides on board a ship or aircraft etc. to get
free passage.
STP abbr. 1 Professor of Sacred Theology. 2 standard temperature
and pressure.
str. abbr. 1 strait. 2 stroke (of an oar).
strabismus
n. Med. the abnormal condition of one or both eyes not
correctly aligned in direction; a squint. ЬЬstrabismal adj.
strabismic adj. [mod.L f. Gk strabismos f. strabizo squint f.
strabos squinting]
Strad n. colloq. a Stradivarius. [abbr.]
straddle v. & n. --v. 1 tr. a sit or stand across (a thing) with the
legs wide apart. b be situated across or on both sides of (the
town straddles the border). 2 intr. a sit or stand in this
way. b (of the legs) be wide apart. 3 tr. part (one's legs)
widely. 4 tr. drop shots or bombs short of and beyond (a
target). 5 tr. vacillate between two policies etc. regarding
(an issue). --n. 1 the act or an instance of straddling. 2
Stock Exch. an option giving the holder the right of either
calling for or delivering stock at a fixed price. ЬЬstraddler
n. [alt. of striddle, back-form. f. striddlings astride f.
strid- = STRIDE]
Stradivarius
n. a violin or other stringed instrument made by Antonio
Stradivari of Cremona (d. 1737) or his followers. [Latinized f.
Stradivari]
strafe v. & n. --v.tr. 1 bombard; harass with gunfire. 2 reprimand.
3 abuse. 4 thrash. --n. an act of strafing. [joc. adaptation
of G catchword (1914) Gott strafe England may God punish
England]
straggle v. & n. --v.intr. 1 lack or lose compactness or tidiness. 2
be or become dispersed or sporadic. 3 trail behind others in a
march or race etc. 4 (of a plant, beard, etc.) grow long and
loose. --n. a body or group of straggling or scattered persons
or things. ЬЬstraggler n. straggly adj. (stragglier,
straggliest). [ME, perh. rel. to dial. strake go, rel. to
STRETCH]
straight adj., n., & adv. --adj. 1 a extending uniformly in the same
direction; without a curve or bend etc. b Geom. (of a line)
lying on the shortest path between any two of its points. 2
successive, uninterrupted (three straight wins). 3 in proper
order or place or condition; duly arranged; level, symmetrical
(is the picture straight?; put things straight). 4 honest,
candid; not evasive (a straight answer). 5 (of thinking etc.)
logical, unemotional. 6 (of drama etc.) serious as opposed to
popular or comic; employing the conventional techniques of its
art form. 7 a unmodified. b (of a drink) undiluted. 8 colloq.
(of music) classical. 9 colloq. a (of a person etc.)
conventional or respectable. b heterosexual. 10 (of an arch)
flat-topped. 11 (of a person's back) not bowed. 12 (of the
hair) not curly or wavy. 13 (of a knee) not bent. 14 (of the
legs) not bandy or knock-kneed. 15 (of a garment) not flared.
16 coming direct from its source. 17 (of an aim, look, blow, or
course) going direct to the mark. --n. 1 the straight part of
something, esp. the concluding stretch of a racecourse. 2 a
straight condition. 3 a sequence of five cards in poker. 4
colloq. a conventional person; a heterosexual. --adv. 1 in a
straight line; direct; without deviation or hesitation or
circumlocution (came straight from Paris; I told them straight).
2 in the right direction, with a good aim (shoot straight). 3
correctly (can't see straight). 4 archaic at once or
immediately. Ьgo straight live an honest life after being a
criminal. the straight and narrow morally correct behaviour.
straight angle an angle of 180(0). straight away at once;
immediately. straight-bred not cross-bred. straight-cut (of
tobacco) cut lengthwise into long silky fibres. straight-edge a
bar with one edge accurately straight, used for testing.
straight-eight 1 an internal-combustion engine with eight
cylinders in line. 2 a vehicle having this. straight eye the
ability to detect deviation from the straight. straight face an
intentionally expressionless face, esp. avoiding a smile though
amused. straight-faced having a straight face. straight fight
Brit. Polit. a direct contest between two candidates.
straight flush see FLUSH(3). straight from the shoulder 1 (of a
blow) well delivered. 2 (of a verbal attack) frank or direct.
straight man a comedian's stooge. straight off colloq. without
hesitation, deliberation, etc. (cannot tell you straight off).
straight-out US 1 uncompromising. 2 straightforward, genuine.
straight razor US a cutthroat razor. ЬЬstraightly adv.
straightness n. [ME, past part. of STRETCH]
straightaway
adj. US 1 (of a course etc.) straight. 2 straightforward.
straighten
v.tr. & intr. 1 (often foll. by out) make or become straight.
2 (foll. by up) stand erect after bending. ЬЬstraightener n.
straightforward
adj. 1 honest or frank. 2 (of a task etc.) uncomplicated.
ЬЬstraightforwardly adv. straightforwardness n.
straightway
adv. archaic = straight away.
strain(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. stretch tightly; make or become
taut or tense. 2 tr. exercise (oneself, one's senses, a thing,
etc.) intensely or excessively, press to extremes. 3 a intr.
make an intensive effort. b intr. (foll. by after) strive
intensely for (straining after perfection). 4 intr. (foll. by
at) tug, pull (the dog strained at the leash). 5 intr. hold out
with difficulty under pressure (straining under the load). 6
tr. a distort from the true intention or meaning. b apply
(authority, laws, etc.) beyond their province or in violation of
their true intention. 7 tr. overtask or injure by overuse or
excessive demands (strain a muscle; strained their loyalty). 8
a tr. clear (a liquid) of solid matter by passing it through a
sieve etc. b tr. (foll. by out) filter (solids) out from a
liquid. c intr. (of a liquid) percolate. 9 tr. hug or squeeze
tightly. 10 tr. use (one's ears, eyes, voice, etc.) to the best
of one's power. --n. 1 a the act or an instance of straining.
b the force exerted in this. 2 an injury caused by straining a
muscle etc. 3 a a severe demand on physical strength or
resources. b the exertion needed to meet this (is suffering
from strain). 4 (in sing. or pl.) a snatch or spell of music or
poetry. 5 a tone or tendency in speech or writing (more in the
same strain). 6 Physics a the condition of a body subjected to
stress; molecular displacement. b a quantity measuring this,
equal to the amount of deformation usu. divided by the original
dimension. Ьat strain (or full strain) exerted to the utmost.
strain every nerve make every possible effort. strain oneself 1
injure oneself by effort. 2 make undue efforts. ЬЬstrainable
adj. [ME f. OF estreindre estreign- f. L stringere strict- draw
tight]
strain(2) n. 1 a breed or stock of animals, plants, etc. 2 a moral
tendency as part of a person's character (a strain of
aggression). [ME, = progeny, f. OE streon (recorded in
gestreonan beget), rel. to L struere build]
strained adj. 1 constrained, forced, artificial. 2 (of a relationship)
mutually distrustful or tense. 3 (of an interpretation)
involving an unreasonable assumption; far-fetched, laboured.
strainer n. a device for straining liquids, vegetables, etc.
strait n. & adj. --n. 1 (in sing. or pl.) a narrow passage of water
connecting two seas or large bodies of water. 2 (usu. in pl.)
difficulty, trouble, or distress (usu. in dire or desperate
straits). --adj. archaic 1 narrow, limited; confined or
confining. 2 strict or rigorous. Ьstrait-laced severely
virtuous; morally scrupulous; puritanical. ЬЬstraitly adv.
straitness n. [ME streit f. OF estreit tight, narrow f. L
strictus STRICT]
straiten v. 1 tr. restrict in range or scope. 2 tr. (as straitened
adj.) of or marked by poverty. 3 tr. & intr. archaic make or
become narrow.
strait-jacket
n. & v. --n. 1 a strong garment with long arms for confining
the arms of a violent prisoner, mental patient, etc. 2
restrictive measures. --v.tr. (-jacketed, -jacketing) 1
restrain with a strait-jacket. 2 severely restrict.
strake n. 1 a continuous line of planking or plates from the stem to
the stern of a ship. 2 a section of the iron rim of a wheel.
[ME: prob. rel. to OE streccan STRETCH]
stramonium
n. 1 datura. 2 the dried leaves of this plant used in the
treatment of asthma. [mod.L, perh. f. Tartar turman
horse-medicine]
strand(1) v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. run aground. 2 tr. (as stranded
adj.) in difficulties, esp. without money or means of transport.
--n. rhet. or poet. the margin of a sea, lake, or river, esp.
the foreshore. [OE]
strand(2) n. & v. --n. 1 each of the threads or wires twisted round each
other to make a rope or cable. 2 a a single thread or strip of
fibre. b a constituent filament. 3 a lock of hair. 4 an
element or strain in any composite whole. --v.tr. 1 break a
strand in (a rope). 2 arrange in strands. [ME: orig. unkn.]
strange adj. 1 unusual, peculiar, surprising, eccentric, novel. 2 a
(often foll. by to) unfamiliar, alien, foreign (lost in a
strange land). b not one's own (strange gods). 3 (foll. by to)
unaccustomed. 4 not at ease; out of one's element (felt strange
in such company). Ьfeel strange be unwell. strange particle
Physics an elementary particle classified as having a non-zero
value for strangeness. strange to say it is surprising or
unusual (that). ЬЬstrangely adv. [ME f. OF estrange f. L
extraneus EXTRANEOUS]
strangeness
n. 1 the state or fact of being strange or unfamiliar etc. 2
Physics a property of certain elementary particles that is
conserved in strong interactions.
stranger n. 1 a person who does not know or is not known in a particular
place or company. 2 (often foll. by to) a person one does not
know (was a complete stranger to me). 3 (foll. by to) a person
entirely unaccustomed to (a feeling, experience, etc.) (no
stranger to controversy). 4 a floating tea-leaf etc. held to
foretell the arrival of a visitor. 5 Parl. a person who is not
a member or official of the House of Commons. [ME f. OF
estrangier ult. f. L (as STRANGE)]
strangle v.tr. 1 squeeze the windpipe or neck of, esp. so as to kill. 2
hamper or suppress (a movement, impulse, cry, etc.).
ЬЬstrangler n. [ME f. OF estrangler f. L strangulare f. Gk
straggalao f. straggale halter: cf. straggos twisted]
stranglehold
n. 1 a wrestling hold that throttles an opponent. 2 a deadly
grip. 3 complete and exclusive control.
strangles n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) an infectious streptococcal
fever, esp. affecting the respiratory tract, in a horse, ass,
etc. [pl. of strangle (n.) f. STRANGLE]
strangulate
v.tr. Surgery 1 prevent circulation through (a vein, intestine,
etc.) by compression. 2 remove (a tumour etc.) by binding with
a cord. Ьstrangulated hernia Med. a hernia in which the
protruding part is constricted, preventing circulation. [L
strangulare strangulat- (as STRANGLE)]
strangulation
n. 1 the act of strangling or the state of being strangled. 2
the act of strangulating. [L strangulatio (as STRANGULATE)]
strangury n. a condition in which urine is passed painfully and in drops.
ЬЬstrangurious adj. [ME f. L stranguria f. Gk straggouria f.
stragx -ggos drop squeezed out + ouron urine]
strap n. & v. --n. 1 a strip of leather or other flexible material,
often with a buckle or other fastening for holding things
together etc. 2 a thing like this for keeping a garment in
place. 3 a loop for grasping to steady oneself in a moving
vehicle. 4 a a strip of metal used to secure or connect. b a
leaf of a hinge. 5 Bot. a tongue-shaped part in a floret. 6
(prec. by the) punishment by beating with a strap. --v.tr.
(strapped, strapping) 1 (often foll. by down, up, etc.) secure
or bind with a strap. 2 beat with a strap. 3 (esp. as strapped
adj.) colloq. subject to a shortage. 4 (often foll. by up)
close (a wound) or bind (a part) with adhesive plaster.
Ьstrap-work ornamentation imitating plaited straps. ЬЬstrapper
n. strappy adj. [dial. form of STROP]
straphanger
n. sl. a standing passenger in a bus or train. ЬЬstraphang
v.intr.
strapless adj. (of a garment) without straps, esp. shoulder-straps.
strappado n. (pl. -os) hist. a form of torture in which the victim is
secured to a rope and made to fall from a height almost to the
ground then stopped with a jerk; an application of this; the
instrument used. [F (e)strapade f. It. strappata f. strappare
snatch]
strapping adj. (esp. of a person) large and sturdy.
strata pl. of STRATUM.
stratagem n. 1 a cunning plan or scheme, esp. for deceiving an enemy. 2
trickery. [ME f. F stratagЉme f. L stratagema f. Gk strategema
f. strategeo be a general (strategos) f. stratos army + ago
lead]
stratal see STRATUM.
strategic adj. 1 of or serving the ends of strategy (strategic
considerations). 2 (of materials) essential in fighting a war.
3 (of bombing or weapons) done or for use against an enemy's
home territory as a longer-term military objective (opp.
TACTICAL). Ьstrategic defence initiative a projected US system
of defence against nuclear weapons using satellites.
ЬЬstrategical adj. strategically adv. strategics n.pl. (usu.
treated as sing.). [F strat‚gique f. Gk strategikos (as
STRATAGEM)]
strategy n. (pl. -ies) 1 the art of war. 2 a the management of an army
or armies in a campaign. b the art of moving troops, ships,
aircraft, etc. into favourable positions (cf. TACTICS). c an
instance of this or a plan formed according to it. 3 a plan of
action or policy in business or politics etc. (economic
strategy). ЬЬstrategist n. [F strat‚gie f. Gk strategia
generalship f. strategos: see STRATAGEM]
strath n. Sc. a broad mountain valley. [Gael. srath]
strathspey
n. 1 a slow Scottish dance. 2 the music for this.
[Strathspey, valley of the river Spey]
strati pl. of STRATUS.
straticulate
adj. Geol. (of rock-formations) arranged in thin strata.
[STRATUM, after vermiculate etc.]
stratify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 (esp. as stratified adj.) arrange in
strata. 2 construct in layers, social grades, etc.
ЬЬstratification n. [F stratifier (as STRATUM)]
stratigraphy
n. Geol. & Archaeol. 1 the order and relative position of
strata. 2 the study of this as a means of historical
interpretation. ЬЬstratigraphic adj. stratigraphical adj.
[STRATUM + -GRAPHY]
strato- comb. form stratus.
stratocirrus
n. clouds combining stratus and cirrus features.
stratocracy
n. (pl. -ies) 1 a military government. 2 domination by
soldiers. [Gk stratos army + -CRACY]
stratocumulus
n. clouds combining cumulus and stratus features.
stratopause
n. the interface between the stratosphere and the ionosphere.
stratosphere
n. a layer of atmospheric air above the troposphere extending
to about 50 km above the earth's surface, in which the lower
part changes little in temperature and the upper part increases
in temperature with height (cf. IONOSPHERE). ЬЬstratospheric
adj. [STRATUM + SPHERE after atmosphere]
stratum n. (pl. strata) 1 esp. Geol. a layer or set of successive
layers of any deposited substance. 2 an atmospheric layer. 3 a
layer of tissue etc. 4 a a social grade, class, etc. (the
various strata of society). b Statistics each of the groups
into which a population is divided in stratified sampling.
ЬЬstratal adj. [L, = something spread or laid down, neut. past
part. of sternere strew]
stratus n. (pl. strati) a continuous horizontal sheet of cloud. [L,
past part. of sternere: see STRATUM]
straw n. 1 dry cut stalks of grain for use as fodder or as material
for thatching, packing, making hats, etc. 2 a single stalk or
piece of straw. 3 a thin hollow paper or plastic tube for
sucking drink from a glass etc. 4 an insignificant thing (not
worth a straw). 5 the pale yellow colour of straw. 6 a straw
hat. Ьcatch (or grasp) at a straw resort to an utterly
inadequate expedient in desperation, like a person drowning.
straw boss US an assistant foreman. straw-colour pale yellow.
straw-coloured of pale yellow. straw in the wind a slight hint
of future developments. straw vote (or poll) an unofficial
ballot as a test of opinion. straw-worm a caddis-worm.
ЬЬstrawy adj. [OE streaw f. Gmc, rel. to STREW]
strawberry
n. (pl. -ies) 1 a any plant of the genus Fragaria, esp. any of
various cultivated varieties, with white flowers, trifoliate
leaves, and runners. b the pulpy red edible fruit of this,
having a seed-studded surface. 2 a deep pinkish-red colour.
Ьstrawberry blonde 1 pinkish-blonde hair. 2 a woman with such
hair. strawberry mark a soft reddish birthmark. strawberry
pear 1 a W. Indian cactaceous plant, Hylocereus undatus. 2 the
fruit of this. strawberry roan see ROAN(1). strawberry-tree an
evergreen tree, Arbutus unedo, bearing strawberry-like fruit.
[OE strea(w)berige, streowberige (as STRAW, BERRY): reason for
the name unkn.]
strawboard
n. a coarse cardboard made of straw pulp.
stray v., n., & adj. --v.intr. 1 wander from the right place; become
separated from one's companions etc.; go astray. 2 deviate
morally. 3 (as strayed adj.) that has gone astray. --n. 1 a
person or thing that has strayed, esp. a domestic animal. 2
(esp. in pl.) electrical phenomena interfering with radio
reception. --adj. 1 strayed or lost. 2 isolated; found or
occurring occasionally (a stray customer or two; hit by a stray
bullet). 3 Physics wasted or unwanted (eliminate stray magnetic
fields). ЬЬstrayer n. [ME f. AF & OF estrayer (v.), AF strey
(n. & adj.) f. OF estrai‚ (as ASTRAY)]
streak n. & v. --n. 1 a long thin usu. irregular line or band, esp.
distinguished by colour (black with red streaks; a streak of
light above the horizon). 2 a strain or element in a person's
character (has a streak of mischief). 3 a spell or series (a
winning streak). 4 a line of bacteria etc. placed on a culture
medium. --v. 1 tr. mark with streaks. 2 intr. move very
rapidly. 3 intr. colloq. run naked in a public place as a
stunt. Ьstreak of lightning a sudden prominent flash of
lightning. ЬЬstreaker n. streaking n. [OE strica pen-stroke
f. Gmc: rel. to STRIKE]
streaky adj. (streakier, streakiest) 1 full of streaks. 2 (of bacon)
with alternate streaks of fat and lean. ЬЬstreakily adv.
streakiness n.
stream n. & v. --n. 1 a flowing body of water, esp. a small river. 2
a the flow of a fluid or of a mass of people (a stream of lava).
b (in sing. or pl.) a large quantity of something that flows or
moves along. 3 a current or direction in which things are
moving or tending (against the stream). 4 Brit. a group of
schoolchildren taught together as being of similar ability for a
given age. --v. 1 intr. flow or move as a stream. 2 intr. run
with liquid (my eyes were streaming). 3 intr. (of a banner or
hair etc.) float or wave in the wind. 4 tr. emit a stream of
(blood etc.). 5 tr. Brit. arrange (schoolchildren) in streams.
Ьgo with the stream do as others do. on stream (of a factory
etc.) in operation. stream-anchor an anchor intermediate in
size between a bower and a kedge, esp. for use in warping.
stream of consciousness 1 Psychol. a person's thoughts and
conscious reactions to events perceived as a continuous flow. 2
a literary style depicting events in such a flow in the mind of
a character. ЬЬstreamless adj. streamlet n. [OE stream f.
Gmc]
streamer n. 1 a long narrow flag. 2 a long narrow strip of ribbon or
paper, esp. in a coil that unrolls when thrown. 3 a banner
headline. 4 (in pl.) the aurora borealis or australis.
streamline
v. & n. --v.tr. 1 give (a vehicle etc.) the form which
presents the least resistance to motion. 2 make (an
organization, process, etc.) simple or more efficient or better
organized. --n. 1 the natural course of water or air currents.
2 (often attrib.) the shape of an aircraft, car, etc.,
calculated to cause the least resistance to motion.
street n. 1 a a public road in a city, town, or village. b this with
the houses or other buildings on each side. 2 the persons who
live or work on a particular street. Ьin the street 1 in the
area outside the houses. 2 (of Stock Exchange business) done
after closing-time. not in the same street with colloq.
utterly inferior to in ability etc. on the streets 1 living by
prostitution. 2 homeless. street Arab 1 a homeless child. 2
an urchin. street credibility familiarity with a fashionable
urban subculture. street cries Brit. the cries of street
hawkers. street door a main outer house-door opening on the
street. street jewellery enamel advertising plates as
collectors' items. streets ahead (often foll. by of) colloq.
much superior (to). street value the value of drugs sold
illicitly. up (or right up) one's street colloq. 1 within
one's range of interest or knowledge. 2 to one's liking.
ЬЬstreeted adj. (also in comb.). streetward adj. & adv. [OE
str‘t f. LL strata (via) paved (way), fem. past part. of
sternere lay down]
streetcar n. US a tram.
streetwalker
n. a prostitute seeking customers in the street.
ЬЬstreetwalking n. & adj.
streetwise
n. esp. US familiar with the ways of modern urban life.
strength n. 1 the state of being strong; the degree or respect in which
a person or thing is strong. 2 a a person or thing affording
strength or support. b an attribute making for strength of
character (patience is your great strength). 3 the number of
persons present or available. 4 a full complement (below
strength). Ьfrom strength from a strong position. from
strength to strength with ever-increasing success. in strength
in large numbers. on the strength of relying on; on the basis
of. the strength of the essence or main features of.
ЬЬstrengthless adj. [OE strengthu f. Gmc (as STRONG)]
strengthen
v.tr. & intr. make or become stronger. Ьstrengthen a person's
hand (or hands) encourage a person to vigorous action.
ЬЬstrengthener n.
strenuous adj. 1 requiring or using great effort. 2 energetic or
unrelaxing. ЬЬstrenuously adv. strenuousness n. [L strenuus
brisk]
strep n. colloq. = STREPTOCOCCUS. [abbr.]
streptococcus
n. (pl. streptococci) any bacterium of the genus
Streptococcus, usu. occurring in chains, some of which cause
infectious diseases. ЬЬstreptococcal adj. [Gk streptos twisted
f. strepho turn + COCCUS]
streptomycin
n. an antibiotic produced by the bacterium Streptomyces
griseus, effective against many disease-producing bacteria. [Gk
streptos (as STREPTOCOCCUS) + mukes fungus]
stress n. & v. --n. 1 a pressure or tension exerted on a material
object. b a quantity measuring this. 2 a demand on physical or
mental energy. b distress caused by this (suffering from
stress). 3 a emphasis (the stress was on the need for success).
b accentuation; emphasis laid on a syllable or word. c an
accent, esp. the principal one in a word (the stress is on the
first syllable). 4 Mech. force per unit area exerted between
contiguous bodies or parts of a body. --v.tr. 1 lay stress on;
emphasize. 2 subject to mechanical or physical or mental
stress. Ьlay stress on indicate as important. stress disease a
disease resulting from continuous mental stress. ЬЬstressless
adj. [ME f. DISTRESS, or partly f. OF estresse narrowness,
oppression, ult. f. L strictus STRICT]
stressful adj. causing stress; mentally tiring (had a stressful day).
ЬЬstressfully adv. stressfulness n.
stretch v. & n. --v. 1 tr. & intr. draw or be drawn or admit of being
drawn out into greater length or size. 2 tr. & intr. make or
become taut. 3 tr. & intr. place or lie at full length or
spread out (with a canopy stretched over them). 4 tr. (also
absol.) a extend (an arm, leg, etc.). b (often refl.) thrust
out one's limbs and tighten one's muscles after being relaxed.
5 intr. have a specified length or extension; extend (farmland
stretches for many miles). 6 tr. strain or exert extremely or
excessively; exaggerate (stretch the truth). 7 intr. (as
stretched adj.) lying at full length. --n. 1 a continuous
extent or expanse or period (a stretch of open road). 2 the act
or an instance of stretching; the state of being stretched. 3
(attrib.) able to stretch; elastic (stretch fabric). 4 a
colloq. a period of imprisonment. b a period of service. 5 US
the straight side of a racetrack. 6 Naut. the distance covered
on one tack. Ьat full stretch working to capacity. at a
stretch 1 in one continuous period (slept for two hours at a
stretch). 2 with much effort. stretch one's legs exercise
oneself by walking. stretch marks marks on the skin resulting
from a gain of weight, or on the abdomen after pregnancy.
stretch out 1 tr. extend (a hand or foot etc.). 2 intr. & tr.
last for a longer period; prolong. 3 tr. make (money etc.) last
for a sufficient time. stretch a point agree to something not
normally allowed. stretch one's wings see WING. ЬЬstretchable
adj. stretchability n. stretchy adj. stretchiness n. [OE
streccan f. WG: cf. STRAIGHT]
stretcher n. & v. --n. 1 a framework of two poles with canvas etc.
between, for carrying sick, injured, or dead persons in a lying
position. 2 a brick or stone laid with its long side along the
face of a wall (cf. HEADER). 3 a board in a boat against which
a rower presses the feet. 4 a rod or bar as a tie between
chair-legs etc. 5 a wooden frame over which a canvas is
stretched ready for painting. 6 archaic sl. an exaggeration or
lie. --v.tr. (often foll. by off) convey (a sick or injured
person) on a stretcher. Ьstretcher-bearer a person who helps to
carry a stretcher, esp. in war or at a major accident.
stretto adv. Mus. in quicker time. [It., = narrow]
strew v.tr. (past part. strewn or strewed) 1 scatter or spread about
over a surface. 2 (usu. foll. by with) spread (a surface) with
scattered things. ЬЬstrewer n. [OE stre(o)wian]
'strewth var. of 'STRUTH.
stria n. (pl. -ae) 1 Anat., Zool., Bot., & Geol. a a linear mark on
a surface. b a slight ridge, furrow, or score. 2 Archit. a
fillet between the flutes of a column. [L]
striate adj. & v. --adj. (also striated) Anat., Zool., Bot., & Geol.
marked with striae. --v.tr. mark with striae. ЬЬstriation n.
stricken adj. 1 affected or overcome with illness or misfortune etc.
(stricken with measles; grief-stricken). 2 levelled with a
strickle. 3 (often foll. by from etc.) US Law deleted.
Ьstricken in years archaic enfeebled by age. [archaic past
part. of STRIKE]
strickle n. 1 a rod used in strike-measure. 2 a whetting tool. [OE
stricel, rel. to STRIKE]
strict adj. 1 precisely limited or defined; without exception or
deviation (lives in strict seclusion). 2 requiring complete
compliance or exact performance; enforced rigidly (gave strict
orders). ЬЬstrictness n. [L strictus past part. of stringere
tighten]
strictly adv. 1 in a strict manner. 2 (also strictly speaking) applying
words in their strict sense (he is, strictly, an absconder). 3
esp. US colloq. definitely.
stricture n. 1 (usu. in pl.; often foll. by on, upon) a critical or
censorious remark. 2 Med. a morbid narrowing of a canal or duct
in the body. ЬЬstrictured adj. [ME f. L strictura (as STRICT)]
stride v. & n. --v. (past strode; past part. stridden) 1 intr. & tr.
walk with long firm steps. 2 tr. cross with one step. 3 tr.
bestride; straddle. --n. 1 a a single long step. b the length
of this. 2 a person's gait as determined by the length of
stride. 3 (usu. in pl.) progress (has made great strides). 4 a
settled rate of progress (get into one's stride; be thrown out
of one's stride). 5 (in pl.) sl. trousers. 6 the distance
between the feet parted either laterally or as in walking.
Ьtake in one's stride 1 clear (an obstacle) without changing
one's gait to jump. 2 manage without difficulty. ЬЬstrider n.
[OE stridan]
strident adj. loud and harsh. ЬЬstridency n. stridently adv. [L
stridere strident- creak]
stridulate
v.intr. (of insects, esp. the cicada and grasshopper) make a
shrill sound by rubbing esp. the legs or wing-cases together.
ЬЬstridulant adj. stridulation n. [F striduler f. L stridulus
creaking (as STRIDENT)]
strife n. 1 conflict; struggle between opposed persons or things. 2
Austral. colloq. trouble of any kind. [ME f. OF estrif: cf. OF
estriver STRIVE]
strigil n. 1 Gk & Rom. Antiq. a skin-scraper used by bathers after
exercise. 2 a structure on the leg of an insect used to clean
its antennae etc. [L strigilis f. stringere graze]
strigose adj. 1 (of leaves etc.) having short stiff hairs or scales. 2
(of an insect etc.) streaked, striped, or ridged. [L striga
swath, furrow]
strike v. & n. --v. (past struck; past part. struck or archaic
stricken) 1 a tr. subject to an impact. b tr. deliver (a blow)
or inflict a blow on. 2 tr. come or bring sharply into contact
with (the ship struck a rock). 3 tr. propel or divert with a
blow (struck the ball into the pond). 4 intr. (foll. by at) try
to hit. 5 tr. penetrate or cause to penetrate (struck terror
into him). 6 tr. ignite (a match) or produce (sparks etc.) by
rubbing. 7 tr. make (a coin) by stamping. 8 tr. produce (a
musical note) by striking. 9 a tr. (also absol.) (of a clock)
indicate (the time) by the sounding of a chime etc. b intr. (of
time) be indicated in this way. 10 tr. a attack suddenly (was
struck with sudden terror). b (of a disease) afflict. 11 tr.
cause to become suddenly (was struck dumb). 12 tr. reach or
achieve (strike a balance). 13 tr. agree on (a bargain). 14
tr. assume (an attitude) suddenly and dramatically. 15 tr. a
discover or come across. b find (oil etc.) by drilling. c
encounter (an unusual thing etc.). 16 come to the attention of
or appear to (it strikes me as silly; an idea suddenly struck
me). 17 a intr. (of employees) engage in a strike; cease work
as a protest. b tr. US act in this way against (an employer).
18 a tr. lower or take down (a flag or tent etc.). b intr.
signify surrender by striking a flag; surrender. 19 intr. take
a specified direction (struck east). 20 tr. (also absol.)
secure a hook in the mouth of (a fish) by jerking the tackle.
21 tr. (of a snake) wound with its fangs. 22 intr. (of oysters)
attach themselves to a bed. 23 a tr. insert (the cutting of a
plant) in soil to take root. b tr. (also absol.) (of a plant or
cutting etc.) put forth (roots). 24 tr. level (grain etc. or
the measure) in strike-measure. 25 tr. a ascertain (a balance)
by deducting credit or debit from the other. b arrive at (an
average, state of balance) by equalizing all items. 26 compose
(a jury) esp. by allowing both sides to reject the same number.
--n. 1 the act or an instance of striking. 2 a the organized
refusal by employees to work until some grievance is remedied.
b a similar refusal to participate in some other expected
activity. 3 a sudden find or success (a lucky strike). 4 an
attack, esp. from the air. 5 Baseball a batter's unsuccessful
attempt to hit a pitched ball, or another event counting
equivalently against a batter. 6 the act of knocking down all
the pins with the first ball in bowling. 7 horizontal direction
in a geological structure. 8 a strickle. Ьon strike taking
part in an industrial etc. strike. strike at the root (or
roots) of see ROOT(1). strike back 1 strike or attack in
return. 2 (of a gas-burner) burn from an internal point before
the gas has become mixed with air. strike down 1 knock down. 2
bring low; afflict (struck down by a virus). strike home 1 deal
an effective blow. 2 have an intended effect (my words struck
home). strike in 1 intervene in a conversation etc. 2 (of a
disease) attack the interior of the body from the surface.
strike it rich colloq. find a source of abundance or success.
strike a light 1 produce a light by striking a match. 2 Brit.
sl. an expression of surprise, disgust, etc. strike lucky have
a lucky success. strike-measure measurement by passing a rod
across the top of a heaped vessel to ensure that it is exactly
full. strike off 1 remove with a stroke. 2 delete (a name
etc.) from a list. 3 produce (copies of a document). strike
oil 1 find petroleum by sinking a shaft. 2 attain prosperity or
success. strike out 1 hit out. 2 act vigorously. 3 delete (an
item or name etc.). 4 set off or begin (struck out eastwards).
5 use the arms and legs in swimming. 6 forge or devise (a plan
etc.). 7 Baseball a dismiss (a batter) by means of three
strikes. b be dismissed in this way. strike pay an allowance
paid to strikers by their trade union. strike through delete (a
word etc.) with a stroke of one's pen. strike up 1 start (an
acquaintance, conversation, etc.) esp. casually. 2 (also
absol.) begin playing (a tune etc.). strike upon 1 have (an
idea etc.) luckily occur to one. 2 (of light) illuminate.
strike while the iron is hot act promptly at a good opportunity.
struck on colloq. infatuated with. ЬЬstrikable adj. [OE
strican go, stroke f. WG]
strikebound
adj. immobilized or closed by a strike.
strikebreaker
n. a person working or employed in place of others who are on
strike. ЬЬstrikebreak v.intr.
striker n. 1 a person or thing that strikes. 2 an employee on strike.
3 Sport the player who is to strike, or who is to be the next to
strike, the ball. 4 Football an attacking player positioned
well forward in order to score goals. 5 a device striking the
primer in a gun.
striking adj. & n. --adj. 1 impressive; attracting attention. 2 (of a
clock) making a chime to indicate the hours etc. --n. the act
or an instance of striking. Ьstriking-circle (in hockey) an
elongated semicircle in front of the goal, from within which the
ball must be hit in order to score. striking-force a military
body ready to attack at short notice. within striking distance
near enough to hit or achieve. ЬЬstrikingly adv. strikingness
n.
Strine n. 1 a comic transliteration of Australian speech, e.g. Emma
Chissitt = 'How much is it?'. 2 (esp. uneducated) Australian
English. [= Australian in Strine]
string n. & v. --n. 1 twine or narrow cord. 2 a piece of this or of
similar material used for tying or holding together, pulling,
etc. 3 a length of catgut or wire etc. on a musical instrument,
producing a note by vibration. 4 a (in pl.) the stringed
instruments in an orchestra etc. b (attrib.) relating to or
consisting of stringed instruments (string quartet). 5 (in pl.)
an awkward condition or complication (the offer has no strings).
6 a set of things strung together; a series or line of persons
or things (a string of beads; a string of oaths). 7 a group of
racehorses trained at one stable. 8 a tough piece connecting
the two halves of a bean-pod etc. 9 a piece of catgut etc.
interwoven with others to form the head of a tennis etc. racket.
10 = STRINGBOARD. --v. (past and past part. strung) 1 tr.
supply with a string or strings. 2 tr. tie with string. 3 tr.
thread (beads etc.) on a string. 4 tr. arrange in or as a
string. 5 tr. remove the strings from (a bean). 6 tr. place a
string ready for use on (a bow). 7 tr. colloq. hoax. 8 intr.
(of glue etc.) become stringy. 9 intr. Billiards make the
preliminary strokes that decide which player begins. Ьon a
string under one's control or influence. string along colloq.
1 deceive, esp. by appearing to comply with (a person). 2
(often foll. by with) keep company (with). string bass Mus. a
double-bass. string bean 1 any of various beans eaten in their
fibrous pods, esp. runner beans or French beans. 2 colloq. a
tall thin person. string-course a raised horizontal band or
course of bricks etc. on a building. string out extend; prolong
(esp. unduly). string-piece a long timber supporting and
connecting the parts of a framework. string tie a very narrow
necktie. string up 1 hang up on strings etc. 2 kill by
hanging. 3 make tense. string vest a vest with large meshes.
ЬЬstringless adj. stringlike adj. [OE streng f. Gmc: cf.
STRONG]
stringboard
n. a supporting timber or skirting in which the ends of a
staircase steps are set.
stringed adj. (of musical instruments) having strings (also in comb.:
twelve-stringed guitar).
stringendo
adj. & adv. Mus. with increasing speed. [It. f. stringere
press: see STRINGENT]
stringent adj. 1 (of rules etc.) strict, precise; requiring exact
performance; leaving no loophole or discretion. 2 (of a money
market etc.) tight; hampered by scarcity; unaccommodating; hard
to operate in. ЬЬstringency n. stringently adv. [L stringere
draw tight]
stringer n. 1 a longitudinal structural member in a framework, esp. of a
ship or aircraft. 2 colloq. a newspaper correspondent not on
the regular staff. 3 = STRINGBOARD.
stringhalt
n. spasmodic movement of a horse's hind leg.
stringy adj. (stringier, stringiest) 1 (of food etc.) fibrous, tough.
2 of or like string. 3 (of a person) tall, wiry, and thin. 4
(of a liquid) viscous; forming strings. Ьstringy-bark Austral.
any of various eucalyptus trees with tough fibrous bark.
ЬЬstringily adv. stringiness n.
strip(1) v. & n. --v. (stripped, stripping) 1 tr. (often foll. by of)
remove the clothes or covering from (a person or thing). 2
intr. (often foll. by off) undress oneself. 3 tr. (often foll.
by of) deprive (a person) of property or titles. 4 tr. leave
bare of accessories or fittings. 5 tr. remove bark and branches
from (a tree). 6 tr. (often foll. by down) remove the accessory
fittings of or take apart (a machine etc.) to inspect or adjust
it. 7 tr. milk (a cow) to the last drop. 8 tr. remove the old
hair from (a dog). 9 tr. remove the stems from (tobacco). 10
tr. tear the thread from (a screw). 11 tr. tear the teeth from
(a gearwheel). 12 tr. remove (paint) or remove paint from (a
surface) with solvent. 13 tr. (often foll. by from) pull or
tear (a covering or property etc.) off (stripped the masks from
their faces). 14 intr. (of a screw) lose its thread. 15 intr.
(of a bullet) issue from a rifled gun without spin owing to a
loss of surface. --n. 1 an act of stripping, esp. of
undressing in striptease. 2 colloq. the identifying outfit worn
by the members of a sports team while playing. Ьstrip club a
club at which striptease performances are given. strip mine US
a mine worked by removing the material that overlies the ore
etc. strip-search n. a search of a person involving the
removal of all clothes. --v.tr. search in this way. [ME f. OE
bestriepan plunder f. Gmc]
strip(2) n. 1 a long narrow piece (a strip of land). 2 a narrow flat
bar of iron or steel. 3 (in full strip cartoon) = comic strip.
Ьstrip light a tubular fluorescent lamp. strip mill a mill in
which steel slabs are rolled into strips. tear a person off a
strip colloq. angrily rebuke a person. [ME, from or rel. to
MLG strippe strap, thong, prob. rel. to STRIPE]
stripe n. 1 a long narrow band or strip differing in colour or texture
from the surface on either side of it (black with a red stripe).
2 Mil. a chevron etc. denoting military rank. 3 US a category
of character, opinion, etc. (a man of that stripe). 4 (usu. in
pl.) archaic a blow with a scourge or lash. 5 (in pl., treated
as sing.) colloq. a tiger. [perh. back-form. f. striped: cf.
MDu., MLG stripe, MHG strife]
striped adj. marked with stripes (also in comb.: red-striped).
stripling n. a youth not yet fully grown. [ME, prob. f. STRIP(2) +
-LING(1), in the sense of having a figure not yet filled out]
stripper n. 1 a person or thing that strips something. 2 a device or
solvent for removing paint etc. 3 a striptease performer.
striptease
n. & v. --n. an entertainment in which the performer gradually
undresses before the audience. --v.intr. perform a striptease.
ЬЬstripteaser n.
stripy adj. (stripier, stripiest) striped; having many stripes.
strive v.intr. (past strove; past part. striven) 1 (often foll. by
for, or to + infin.) try hard, make efforts (strive to succeed).
2 (often foll. by with, against) struggle or contend. ЬЬstriver
n. [ME f. OF estriver, rel. to estrif STRIFE]
strobe n. colloq. 1 a stroboscope. 2 a stroboscopic lamp. [abbr.]
strobila n. (pl. strobilae) 1 a chain of proglottids in a tapeworm. 2
a sessile polyp-like form which divides horizontally to produce
jellyfish larvae. [mod.L f. Gk strobile twisted lint-plug f.
strepho twist]
strobile n. 1 the cone of a pine etc. 2 the layered flower of the hop.
[F strobile or LL strobilus f. Gk strobilos f. strepho twist]
strobilus n. (pl. strobili) Bot. = STROBILE 1. [LL (as STROBILE)]
stroboscope
n. 1 Physics an instrument for determining speeds of rotation
etc. by shining a bright light at intervals so that a rotating
object appears stationary. 2 a lamp made to flash
intermittently, esp. for this purpose. ЬЬstroboscopic adj.
stroboscopical adj. stroboscopically adv. [Gk strobos whirling
+ -SCOPE]
strode past of STRIDE.
Stroganoff
adj. (of meat) cut into strips and cooked in sour-cream sauce
(beef Stroganoff). [P. Stroganoff, 19th-c. Russ. diplomat]
stroke n. & v. --n. 1 the act or an instance of striking; a blow or
hit (with a single stroke; a stroke of lightning). 2 a sudden
disabling attack or loss of consciousness caused by an
interruption in the flow of blood to the brain, esp. through
thrombosis; apoplexy. 3 a an action or movement esp. as one of
a series. b the time or way in which such movements are done.
c the slightest such action (has not done a stroke of work). 4
the whole of the motion (of a wing, oar, etc.) until the
starting-position is regained. 5 (in rowing) the mode or action
of moving the oar (row a fast stroke). 6 the whole motion (of a
piston) in either direction. 7 Golf the action of hitting (or
hitting at) a ball with a club, as a unit of scoring. 8 a mode
of moving the arms and legs in swimming. 9 a method of striking
with the bat etc. in games etc. (played some unorthodox
strokes). 10 a specially successful or skilful effort (a stroke
of diplomacy). 11 a a mark made by the movement in one
direction of a pen or pencil or paintbrush. b a similar mark
printed. 12 a detail contributing to the general effect in a
description. 13 the sound made by a striking clock. 14 (in
full stroke oar) the oar or oarsman nearest the stern, setting
the time of the stroke. 15 the act or a spell of stroking.
--v.tr. 1 pass one's hand gently along the surface of (hair or
fur etc.); caress lightly. 2 act as the stroke of (a boat or
crew). Ьat a stroke by a single action. finishing stroke a
coup de grѓce; a final and fatal stroke. off one's stroke not
performing as well as usual. on the stroke punctually. on the
stroke of nine etc. with the clock about to strike nine etc.
stroke a person down appease a person's anger. stroke of
business a profitable transaction. stroke of genius an original
or strikingly successful idea. stroke of luck (or good luck) an
unforeseen opportune occurrence. stroke play Golf play in which
the score is reckoned by counting the number of strokes taken
for the round (cf. match play (see MATCH(1))). stroke a person
(or a person's hair) the wrong way irritate a person. [OE
stracian f. Gmc, rel. to STRIKE]
stroll v. & n. --v.intr. saunter or walk in a leisurely way. --n. a
short leisurely walk (go for a stroll). Ьstrolling players
actors etc. going from place to place to give performances.
[orig. of a vagrant, prob. f. G strollen, strolchen f. Strolch
vagabond, of unkn. orig.]
stroller n. 1 a person who strolls. 2 US a pushchair.
stroma n. (pl. stromata) Biol. 1 the framework of an organ or cell.
2 a fungous tissue containing spore-producing bodies.
ЬЬstromatic adj. [mod.L f. LL f. Gk stroma coverlet]
strong adj. & adv. --adj. (stronger; strongest) 1 having the power of
resistance; able to withstand great force or opposition; not
easily damaged or overcome (strong material; strong faith; a
strong character). 2 (of a person's constitution) able to
overcome, or not liable to, disease. 3 (of a person's nerves)
proof against fright, irritation, etc. 4 (of a patient)
restored to health. 5 (of a market) having steadily high or
rising prices. 6 capable of exerting great force or of doing
much; muscular, powerful. 7 forceful or powerful in effect (a
strong wind; a strong protest). 8 decided or firmly held (a
strong suspicion; strong views). 9 (of an argument etc.)
convincing or striking. 10 powerfully affecting the senses or
emotions (a strong light; strong acting). 11 powerful in terms
of size or numbers or quality (a strong army). 12 capable of
doing much when united (a strong combination). 13 formidable;
likely to succeed (a strong candidate). 14 (of a solution or
drink etc.) containing a large proportion of a substance in
water or another solvent (strong tea). 15 Chem. (of an acid or
base) fully ionized into cations and anions in aqueous solution.
16 (of a group) having a specified number (200 strong). 17 (of
a voice) loud or penetrating. 18 (of food or its flavour)
pungent. 19 (of a person's breath) ill-smelling. 20 (of a
literary style) vivid and terse. 21 (of a measure) drastic. 22
Gram. in Germanic languages: a (of a verb) forming inflections
by change of vowel within the stem rather than by the addition
of a suffix (e.g. swim, swam). b (of a noun or adjective)
belonging to a declension in which the stem originally ended
otherwise than in -n (opp. WEAK 9). --adv. strongly (the tide
is running strong). Ьcome it strong colloq. go to great
lengths; use exaggeration. going strong colloq. continuing
action vigorously; in good health or trim. strong-arm using
force (strong-arm tactics). strong drink see DRINK. strong
grade the stressed ablaut-form. strong interaction Physics
interaction between certain elementary particles that is very
strong but is effective only at short distances. strong
language forceful language; swearing. strong meat a doctrine or
action acceptable only to vigorous or instructed minds.
strong-minded having determination. strong-mindedness
determination. strong point 1 a thing at which one excels. 2 a
specially fortified defensive position. strong stomach a
stomach not easily affected by nausea. strong suit 1 a suit at
cards in which one can take tricks. 2 a thing at which one
excels. ЬЬstrongish adj. strongly adv. [OE f. Gmc: cf.
STRING]
strongbox n. a strongly made small chest for valuables.
stronghold
n. 1 a fortified place. 2 a secure refuge. 3 a centre of
support for a cause etc.
strongroom
n. a room designed to protect valuables against fire and theft.
strontia n. Chem. strontium oxide. [strontian native strontium
carbonate f. Strontian in the Highland Region of Scotland, where
it was discovered]
strontium n. Chem. a soft silver-white metallic element occurring
naturally in various minerals. °Symb.: Sr. Ьstrontium-90 a
radioactive isotope of strontium concentrated selectively in
bones and teeth when taken into the body. strontium oxide a
white compound used in the manufacture of fireworks. [STRONTIA
+ -IUM]
strop n. & v. --n. 1 a device, esp. a strip of leather, for
sharpening razors. 2 Naut. a collar of leather or spliced rope
or iron used for handling cargo. --v.tr. (stropped, stropping)
sharpen on or with a strop. [ME f. MDu., MLG strop, OHG strupf,
WG f. L stroppus]
strophanthin
n. a white crystalline poisonous glucoside extracted from
various tropical plants of the genus Strophanthus and used as a
heart-tonic. [mod.L strophanthus f. Gk strophos twisted cord +
anthos flower]
strophe n. 1 a a turn in dancing made by an ancient Greek chorus. b
lines recited during this. c the first section of an ancient
Greek choral ode or of one division of it. 2 a group of lines
forming a section of a lyric poem. ЬЬstrophic adj. [Gk
strophe, lit. turning, f. strepho turn]
stroppy adj. (stroppier, stroppiest) Brit. colloq. bad-tempered;
awkward to deal with. ЬЬstroppily adv. stroppiness n. [20th
c.: perh. abbr. of OBSTREPEROUS]
strove past of STRIVE.
strow v.tr. (past part. strown or strowed) archaic = STREW. [var.
of STREW]
struck past and past part. of STRIKE.
structural
adj. of, concerning, or having a structure. Ьstructural
engineering the branch of civil engineering concerned with large
modern buildings etc. structural formula Chem. a formula
showing the arrangement of atoms in the molecule of a compound.
structural linguistics the study of language as a system of
interrelated elements. structural psychology the study of the
arrangement and composition of mental states and conscious
experiences. structural steel strong mild steel in shapes
suited to construction work. ЬЬstructurally adv.
structuralism
n. 1 the doctrine that structure rather than function is
important. 2 structural linguistics. 3 structural psychology.
ЬЬstructuralist n.
structure n. & v. --n. 1 a a whole constructed unit, esp. a building. b
the way in which a building etc. is constructed (has a flimsy
structure). 2 a set of interconnecting parts of any complex
thing; a framework (the structure of a sentence; a new wages
structure). --v.tr. give structure to; organize; frame.
ЬЬstructured adj. (also in comb.). structureless adj. [ME f.
OF structure or L structura f. struere struct- build]
strudel n. a confection of thin pastry rolled up round a filling and
baked (apple strudel). [G]
struggle v. & n. --v.intr. 1 make forceful or violent efforts to get
free of restraint or constriction. 2 (often foll. by for, or to
+ infin.) make violent or determined efforts under difficulties;
strive hard (struggled for supremacy; struggled to get the words
out). 3 (foll. by with, against) contend; fight strenuously
(struggled with the disease; struggled against superior
numbers). 4 (foll. by along, up, etc.) make one's way with
difficulty (struggled to my feet). 5 (esp. as struggling adj.)
have difficulty in gaining recognition or a living (a struggling
artist). --n. 1 the act or a spell of struggling. 2 a hard or
confused contest. 3 a determined effort under difficulties.
Ьthe struggle for existence (or life) the competition between
organisms esp. as an element in natural selection, or between
persons seeking a livelihood. ЬЬstruggler n. [ME strugle
frequent. of uncert. orig. (perh. imit.)]
strum v. & n. --v.tr. (strummed, strumming) 1 play on (a stringed or
keyboard instrument), esp. carelessly or unskilfully. 2 play (a
tune etc.) in this way. --n. the sound made by strumming.
ЬЬstrummer n. [imit.: cf. THRUM(1)]
struma n. (pl. strumae) 1 Med. a = SCROFULA. b = GOITRE. 2 Bot. a
cushion-like swelling of an organ. ЬЬstrumose adj. strumous
adj. [L, = scrofulous tumour]
strumpet n. archaic or rhet. a prostitute. [ME: orig. unkn.]
strung past and past part. of STRING.
strut n. & v. --n. 1 a bar forming part of a framework and designed
to resist compression. 2 a strutting gait. --v. (strutted,
strutting) 1 intr. walk with a pompous or affected stiff erect
gait. 2 tr. brace with a strut or struts. ЬЬstrutter n.
struttingly adv. [ME 'bulge, swell, strive', earlier stroute f.
OE strutian be rigid (?)]
'struth int. (also 'strewth) colloq. a mild oath. [God's truth]
struthious
adj. of or like an ostrich. [L struthio ostrich]
strychnine
n. a vegetable alkaloid obtained from plants of the genus
Strychnos (esp. nux vomica), bitter and highly poisonous, used
as a stimulant and (in small amounts) a tonic. ЬЬstrychnic adj.
[F f. L strychnos f. Gk strukhnos a kind of nightshade]
Sts abbr. Saints.
Stuart adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to the royal family ruling
Scotland 1371-1714 and England 1603-1649 and 1660-1714. --n. a
member of this family.
stub n. & v. --n. 1 the remnant of a pencil or cigarette etc. after
use. 2 the counterfoil of a cheque or receipt etc. 3 a stunted
tail etc. 4 the stump of a tree, tooth, etc. 5 (attrib.) going
only part of the way through (stub-mortise; stub-tenon).
--v.tr. (stubbed, stubbing) 1 strike (one's toe) against
something. 2 (usu. foll. by out) extinguish (a lighted
cigarette) by pressing the lighted end against something. 3
(foll. by up) grub up by the roots. 4 clear (land) of stubs.
Ьstub-axle an axle supporting only one wheel of a pair. [OE
stub, stubb f. Gmc]
stubble n. 1 the cut stalks of cereal plants left sticking up after the
harvest. 2 a cropped hair or a cropped beard. b a short growth
of unshaven hair. ЬЬstubbled adj. stubbly adj. [ME f. AF
stuble, OF estuble f. L stupla, stupula var. of stipula straw]
stubby adj. & n. --adj. (stubbier, stubbiest) short and thick. --n.
(pl. -ies) Austral. colloq. a small squat bottle of beer.
ЬЬstubbily adv. stubbiness n.
stucco n. & v. --n. (pl. -oes) plaster or cement used for coating
wall surfaces or moulding into architectural decorations.
--v.tr. (-oes, -oed) coat with stucco. [It., of Gmc orig.]
stuck past and past part. of STICK(2).
stuck-up see STICK(2).
stud(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a large-headed nail, boss, or knob, projecting
from a surface esp. for ornament. 2 a double button esp. for
use with two buttonholes in a shirt-front. 3 a small object
projecting slightly from a road-surface as a marker etc. 4 a
rivet or crosspiece in each link of a chain-cable. 5 a a post
to which laths are nailed. b US the height of a room as
indicated by the length of this. --v.tr. (studded, studding) 1
set with or as with studs. 2 (as studded adj.) (foll. by with)
thickly set or strewn (studded with diamonds). 3 be scattered
over or about (a surface). [OE studu, stuthu post, prop, rel.
to G stЃtzen to prop]
stud(2) n. 1 a a number of horses kept for breeding etc. b a place
where these are kept. 2 (in full stud-horse) a stallion. 3
colloq. a young man (esp. one noted for sexual prowess). 4 (in
full stud poker) a form of poker with betting after the dealing
of successive rounds of cards face up. Ьat stud (of a male
horse) publicly available for breeding on payment of a fee.
stud-book a book containing the pedigrees of horses. stud-farm
a place where horses are bred. [OE stod f. Gmc: rel. to STAND]
studding n. the woodwork of a lath-and-plaster wall.
studding-sail
n. a sail set on a small extra yard and boom beyond the leech
of a square sail in light winds. [16th c.: orig. uncert.: perh.
f. MLG, MDu. stotinge a thrusting]
student n. 1 a person who is studying, esp. at university or another
place of higher education. 2 (attrib.) studying in order to
become (a student nurse). 3 a person of studious habits. 4
Brit. a graduate recipient of a stipend from the foundation of a
college, esp. a fellow of Christ Church, Oxford. ЬЬstudentship
n. [ME f. L studere f. studium STUDY]
studio n. (pl. -os) 1 the workroom of a painter or photographer etc.
2 a place where cinema films or recordings are made or where
television or radio programmes are made or produced. Ьstudio
couch a couch that can be converted into a bed. studio flat a
flat containing a room suitable as an artist's studio, or only
one main room. [It. f. L (as STUDY)]
studious adj. 1 devoted to or assiduous in study or reading. 2 studied,
deliberate, painstaking (with studious care). 3 (foll. by to +
infin. or in + verbal noun) showing care or attention. 4 (foll.
by of + verbal noun) anxiously desirous. ЬЬstudiously adv.
studiousness n. [ME f. L studiosus (as STUDY)]
study n. & v. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 the devotion of time and attention
to acquiring information or knowledge, esp. from books. 2 (in
pl.) the pursuit of academic knowledge (continued their studies
abroad). 3 a room used for reading, writing, etc. 4 a piece of
work, esp. a drawing, done for practice or as an experiment (a
study of a head). 5 the portrayal in literature or another art
form of an aspect of behaviour or character etc. 6 a musical
composition designed to develop a player's skill. 7 a thing
worth observing closely (your face was a study). 8 a thing that
is or deserves to be investigated. 9 Theatr. a the act of
memorizing a role. b a person who memorizes a role. 10 archaic
a thing to be secured by pains or attention. --v. (-ies, -ied)
1 tr. make a study of; investigate or examine (a subject) (study
law). 2 intr. (often foll. by for) apply oneself to study. 3
tr. scrutinize or earnestly contemplate (a visible object)
(studied their faces). 4 tr. try to learn (the words of one's
role etc.). 5 tr. take pains to achieve (a result) or pay
regard to (a subject or principle etc.). 6 tr. (as studied
adj.) deliberate, intentional, affected (with studied
politeness). 7 tr. read (a book) attentively. 8 tr. (foll. by
to + infin.) archaic a be on the watch. b try constantly to
manage. Ьin a brown study in a reverie; absorbed in one's
thoughts. make a study of investigate carefully. study group a
group of people meeting from time to time to study a particular
subject or topic. ЬЬstudiedly adv. studiedness n. [ME f. OF
estudie f. L studium zeal, study]
stuff n. & v. --n. 1 the material that a thing is made of; material
that may be used for some purpose. 2 a substance or things or
belongings of an indeterminate kind or a quality not needing to
be specified (there's a lot of stuff about it in the
newspapers). 3 a particular knowledge or activity (know one's
stuff). 4 woollen fabric (esp. as distinct from silk, cotton,
and linen). 5 valueless matter, trash, refuse, nonsense (take
that stuff away). 6 (prec. by the) a colloq. an available
supply of something, esp. drink or drugs. b sl. money. --v. 1
tr. pack (a receptacle) tightly (stuff a cushion with feathers;
a head stuffed with weird notions). 2 tr. (foll. by in, into)
force or cram (a thing) (stuffed the socks in the drawer). 3
tr. fill out the skin of (an animal or bird etc.) with material
to restore the original shape (a stuffed owl). 4 tr. fill
(poultry etc.) with a savoury or sweet mixture, esp. before
cooking. 5 a tr. & refl. fill (a person or oneself) with food.
b tr. & intr. eat greedily. 6 tr. push, esp. hastily or
clumsily (stuffed the note behind the cushion). 7 tr. (usu. in
passive; foll. by up) block up (a person's nose etc.). 8 tr.
sl. (esp. as an expression of contemptuous dismissal) dispose
of as unwanted (you can stuff the job). 9 tr. US place bogus
votes in (a ballot-box). 10 tr. coarse sl. offens. have
sexual intercourse with (a woman). Ьbit of stuff sl. offens.
a woman regarded as an object of sexual desire. do one's stuff
colloq. do what one has to. get stuffed sl. an exclamation of
dismissal, contempt, etc. stuff and nonsense an exclamation of
incredulity or ridicule. stuffed shirt colloq. a pompous
person. stuff gown Brit. a gown worn by a barrister who has
not taken silk. stuff it sl. an expression of rejection or
disdain. that's the stuff colloq. that is what is wanted.
ЬЬstuffer n. (also in comb.). [ME stoffe f. OF estoffe (n.),
estoffer (v.) equip, furnish f. Gk stupho draw together]
stuffing n. 1 padding used to stuff cushions etc. 2 a mixture used to
stuff poultry etc., esp. before cooking. Ьknock (or take) the
stuffing out of colloq. make feeble or weak; defeat.
stuffing-box a box packed with material, to allow the working of
an axle while remaining airtight.
stuffy adj. (stuffier, stuffiest) 1 (of a room or the atmosphere in
it) lacking fresh air or ventilation; close. 2 dull or
uninteresting. 3 (of a person's nose etc.) stuffed up. 4 (of a
person) dull and conventional. ЬЬstuffily adv. stuffiness n.
stultify v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 make ineffective, useless, or futile, esp.
as a result of tedious routine (stultifying boredom). 2 cause
to appear foolish or absurd. 3 negate or neutralize.
ЬЬstultification n. stultifier n. [LL stultificare f. L
stultus foolish]
stum n. & v. --n. unfermented grape-juice; must. --v.tr. (stummed,
stumming) 1 prevent from fermenting, or secure (wine) against
further fermentation in a cask, by the use of sulphur etc. 2
renew the fermentation of (wine) by adding stum. [Du. stommen
(v.), stom (n.) f. stom (adj.) dumb]
stumble v. & n. --v. 1 intr. lurch forward or have a partial fall from
catching or striking or misplacing one's foot. 2 intr. (often
foll. by along) walk with repeated stumbles. 3 intr. make a
mistake or repeated mistakes in speaking etc. 4 intr. (foll. by
on, upon, across) find or encounter by chance (stumbled on a
disused well). --n. an act of stumbling. Ьstumbling-block an
obstacle or circumstance causing difficulty or hesitation.
ЬЬstumbler n. stumblingly adv. [ME stumble (with euphonic b)
corresp. to Norw. stumla: rel. to STAMMER]
stumblebum
n. US colloq. a clumsy or inept person.
stumer n. Brit. sl. 1 a worthless cheque; a counterfeit coin or
note. 2 a sham or fraud. 3 a failure. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
stump n. & v. --n. 1 the projecting remnant of a cut or fallen tree.
2 the similar remnant of anything else (e.g. a branch or limb)
cut off or worn down. 3 Cricket each of the three uprights of a
wicket. 4 (in pl.) joc. the legs. 5 the stump of a tree, or
other place, used by an orator to address a meeting. 6 a
cylinder of rolled paper or other material with conical ends for
softening pencil-marks and other uses in drawing. --v. 1 tr.
(of a question etc.) be too hard for; puzzle. 2 tr. (as stumped
adj.) at a loss; baffled. 3 tr. Cricket (esp. of a
wicket-keeper) put (a batsman) out by touching the stumps with
the ball while the batsman is out of the crease. 4 intr. walk
stiffly or noisily as on a wooden leg. 5 tr. (also absol.) US
traverse (a district) making political speeches. 6 tr. use a
stump on (a drawing, line, etc.). Ьon the stump colloq.
engaged in political speech-making or agitation. stump up Brit.
colloq. pay or produce (the money required). up a stump US in
difficulties. [ME stompe f. MDu. stomp, OHG stumpf]
stumper n. colloq. 1 a puzzling question. 2 a wicket-keeper.
stumpy adj. (stumpier, stumpiest) short and thick. ЬЬstumpily adv.
stumpiness n.
stun v.tr. (stunned, stunning) 1 knock senseless; stupefy. 2
bewilder or shock. 3 (of a sound) deafen temporarily. [ME f.
OF estoner ASTONISH]
stung past and past part. of STING.
stunk past and past part. of STINK.
stunner n. colloq. a stunning person or thing.
stunning adj. colloq. extremely impressive or attractive. ЬЬstunningly
adv.
stunsail n. (also stuns'l) = STUDDING-SAIL.
stunt(1) v.tr. 1 retard the growth or development of. 2 dwarf, cramp.
ЬЬstuntedness n. [stunt foolish (now dial.), MHG stunz, ON
stuttr short f. Gmc, perh. rel. to STUMP]
stunt(2) n. & v. --n. 1 something unusual done to attract attention. 2
a trick or daring manoeuvre. 3 a display of concentrated
energy. --v.intr. perform stunts, esp. aerobatics. Ьstunt man
a man employed to take an actor's place in performing dangerous
stunts. [orig. unkn.: first used in 19th-c. US college
athletics]
stupa n. a round usu. domed building erected as a Buddhist shrine.
[Skr. stupa]
stupe(1) n. & v. --n. a flannel etc. soaked in hot water, wrung out, and
applied as a fomentation. --v.tr. treat with this. [ME f. L f.
Gk stupe tow]
stupe(2) n. sl. a foolish or stupid person.
stupefy v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 make stupid or insensible (stupefied with
drink). 2 stun with astonishment (the news was stupefying).
ЬЬstupefacient adj. & n. stupefaction n. stupefactive adj.
stupefier n. stupefying adj. stupefyingly adv. [F stup‚fier
f. L stupefacere f. stupere be amazed]
stupendous
adj. amazing or prodigious, esp. in terms of size or degree (a
stupendous achievement). ЬЬstupendously adv. stupendousness n.
[L stupendus gerundive of stupere be amazed at]
stupid adj. (stupider, stupidest) adj. & n. --adj. 1 unintelligent,
slow-witted, foolish (a stupid fellow). 2 typical of stupid
persons (put it in a stupid place). 3 uninteresting or boring.
4 in a state of stupor or lethargy. 5 obtuse; lacking in
sensibility. --n. colloq. a stupid person. ЬЬstupidity n.
(pl. -ies). stupidly adv. [F stupide or L stupidus (as
STUPENDOUS)]
stupor n. a dazed, torpid, or helplessly amazed state. ЬЬstuporous
adj. [ME f. L (as STUPENDOUS)]
sturdy adj. & n. --adj. (sturdier, sturdiest) 1 robust; strongly
built. 2 vigorous and determined (sturdy resistance). --n.
vertigo in sheep caused by a tapeworm larva encysted in the
brain. ЬЬsturdied adj. (in sense of n.). sturdily adv.
sturdiness n. [ME 'reckless, violent', f. OF esturdi, estourdi
past part. of estourdir stun, daze ult. f. L ex EX-(1) + turdus
thrush (taken as a type of drunkenness)]
sturgeon n. any large mailed sharklike fish of the family Acipenseridae
etc. swimming up river to spawn, used as food and a source of
caviare and isinglass. [ME f. AF sturgeon, OF esturgeon ult. f.
Gmc]
Sturm und Drang
n. a literary and artistic movement in Germany in the late 18th
c., characterized by the expression of emotional unrest and
strong feeling. [G, = storm and stress]
stutter v. & n. --v. 1 intr. stammer, esp. by involuntarily repeating
the first consonants of words. 2 tr. (often foll. by out) utter
(words) in this way. --n. 1 the act or habit of stuttering. 2
an instance of stuttering. ЬЬstutterer n. stutteringly adv.
[frequent. of ME (now dial.) stut f. Gmc]
sty(1) n. & v. --n. (pl. sties) 1 a pen or enclosure for pigs. 2 a
filthy room or dwelling. 3 a place of debauchery. --v.tr. &
intr. (sties, stied) lodge in a sty. [OE sti, prob. = stig
hall (cf. STEWARD), f. Gmc]
sty(2) n. (also stye) (pl. sties or styes) an inflamed swelling on
the edge of an eyelid. [styany (now dial.) = styan eye f. OE
stigend sty, lit. 'riser' f. stigan rise + EYE, shortened as if
= sty on eye]
Stygian adj. 1 (in Greek mythology) of or relating to the Styx, a river
in Hades. 2 literary dark, gloomy, indistinct. [L stugius f.
Gk stugios f. Stux -ugos Styx f. stugnos hateful, gloomy]
style n. & v. --n. 1 a kind or sort, esp. in regard to appearance
and form (an elegant style of house). 2 a manner of writing or
speaking or performing (written in a florid style; started off
in fine style). 3 the distinctive manner of a person or school
or period, esp. in relation to painting, architecture,
furniture, dress, etc. 4 the correct way of designating a
person or thing. 5 a a superior quality or manner (do it in
style). b = FORM n. 9 (bad style). 6 a particular make,
shape, or pattern (in all sizes and styles). 7 a method of
reckoning dates (old style; new style). 8 a an ancient
writing-implement, a small rod with a pointed end for scratching
letters on wax-covered tablets and a blunt end for obliterating
them. b a thing of a similar shape esp. for engraving, tracing,
etc. 9 the gnomon of a sundial. 10 Bot. the narrow extension
of the ovary supporting the stigma. 11 (in comb.) = -WISE.
--v.tr. 1 design or make etc. in a particular (esp.
fashionable) style. 2 designate in a specified way.
ЬЬstyleless adj. stylelessness n. styler n. [ME f. OF stile,
style f. L stilus: spelling style due to assoc. with Gk stulos
column]
stylet n. 1 a slender pointed instrument; a stiletto. 2 Med. the
stiffening wire of a catheter; a probe. [F stilet f. It.
STILETTO]
styli pl. of STYLUS.
stylish adj. 1 fashionable; elegant. 2 having a superior quality,
manner, etc. ЬЬstylishly adv. stylishness n.
stylist n. 1 a a designer of fashionable styles etc. b a hairdresser.
2 a a writer noted for or aspiring to good literary style. b
(in sport or music) a person who performs with style.
stylistic adj. of or concerning esp. literary style. ЬЬstylistically
adv. [STYLIST + -IC, after G stilistisch]
stylistics
n. the study of literary style.
stylite n. Eccl. hist. an ancient or medieval ascetic living on top
of a pillar. [eccl.Gk stulites f. stulos pillar]
stylize v.tr. (also -ise) (esp. as stylized adj.) paint, draw, etc. (a
subject) in a conventional non-realistic style. ЬЬstylization
n. [STYLE + -IZE, after G stilisieren]
stylo n. (pl. -os) colloq. = STYLOGRAPH. [abbr.]
stylobate n. Archit. a continuous base supporting a row of columns. [L
stylobata f. Gk stulobates f. stulos pillar, baino walk]
stylograph
n. a kind of fountain pen having a point instead of a split
nib. ЬЬstylographic adj. [STYLUS + -GRAPH]
styloid adj. & n. --adj. resembling a stylus or pen. --n. (in full
styloid process) a spine of bone, esp. that projecting from the
base of the temporal bone. [mod.L styloides f. Gk stuloeides f.
stulos pillar]
stylus n. (pl. -li or -luses) 1 a a hard, esp. diamond or sapphire,
point following a groove in a gramophone record and transmitting
the recorded sound for reproduction. b a similar point
producing such a groove when recording sound. 2 = STYLE n. 8,
9. [erron. spelling of L stilus: cf. STYLE]
stymie n. & v. (also stimy) --n. (pl. -ies) 1 Golf a situation where
an opponent's ball lies between the player and the hole, forming
a possible obstruction to play (lay a stymie). 2 a difficult
situation. --v.tr. (stymies, stymied, stymying or stymieing) 1
obstruct; thwart. 2 Golf block (an opponent, his ball, or
oneself) with a stymie. [19th c.: orig. unkn.]
styptic adj. & n. --adj. (of a drug etc.) that checks bleeding. --n. a
styptic drug or substance. [ME f. L stypticus f. Gk stuptikos
f. stupho contract]
styrax n. 1 storax resin. 2 any tree or shrub of the genus Styrax,
e.g. the storax-tree. [L f. Gk sturax: cf. STORAX]
styrene n. Chem. a liquid hydrocarbon easily polymerized and used in
making plastics etc. [STYRAX + -ENE]
suasion n. formal persuasion as opposed to force (moral suasion).
ЬЬsuasive adj. [ME f. OF suasion or L suasio f. suadere suas-
urge]
suave adj. 1 (of a person, esp. a man) smooth; polite; sophisticated.
2 (of a wine etc.) bland, smooth. ЬЬsuavely adv. suaveness n.
suavity n. (pl. -ies). [F suave or L suavis agreeable: cf.
SWEET]
sub n. & v. colloq. --n. 1 a submarine. 2 a subscription. 3 a
substitute. 4 a sub-editor. 5 Mil. a subaltern. 6 Brit. an
advance or loan against expected income. --v. (subbed,
subbing) 1 intr. (usu. foll. by for) act as a substitute for a
person. 2 tr. Brit. lend or advance (a sum) to (a person)
against expected income. 3 tr. sub-edit. [abbr.]
sub- prefix (also suc- before c, suf- before f, sug- before g, sup-
before p, sur- before r, sus- before c, p, t) 1 at or to or from
a lower position (subordinate; submerge; subtract; subsoil). 2
secondary or inferior in rank or position (subclass;
subcommittee; sub-lieutenant; subtotal). 3 somewhat, nearly;
more or less (subacid; subarctic; subaquatic). 4 (forming
verbs) denoting secondary action (subdivide; sublet). 5
denoting support (subvention). 6 Chem. (of a salt) basic
(subacetate). [from or after L sub- f. sub under, close to,
towards]
subabdominal
adj. below the abdomen.
subacid adj. moderately acid or tart (subacid fruit; a subacid remark).
ЬЬsubacidity n. [L subacidus (as SUB-, ACID)]
subacute adj. Med. (of a condition) between acute and chronic.
subagency n. (pl. -ies) a secondary or subordinate agency. ЬЬsubagent
n.
subalpine adj. of or situated in the higher slopes of mountains just
below the timberline.
subaltern n. & adj. --n. Brit. Mil. an officer below the rank of
captain, esp. a second lieutenant. --adj. 1 of inferior rank.
2 Logic (of a proposition) particular, not universal. [LL
subalternus f. alternus ALTERNATE adj.]
subantarctic
adj. of or like regions immediately north of the Antarctic
Circle.
sub-aqua adj. of or concerning underwater swimming or diving.
subaquatic
adj. 1 of more or less aquatic habits or kind. 2 underwater.
subaqueous
adj. 1 existing, formed, or taking place under water. 2
lacking in substance or strength; wishy-washy.
subarctic adj. of or like regions immediately south of the Arctic Circle.
subastral adj. terrestrial.
subatomic adj. occurring in or smaller than an atom.
subaudition
n. 1 the act of mentally supplying an omitted word or words in
speech. 2 the act or process of understanding the unexpressed;
reading between the lines. [LL subauditio f. subaudire
understand (as SUB-, AUDITION)]
subaxillary
adj. 1 Bot. in or growing beneath the axil. 2 beneath the
armpit.
sub-basement
n. a storey below a basement.
sub-branch
n. a secondary or subordinate branch.
sub-breed n. a secondary or inferior breed.
subcategory
n. (pl. -ies) a secondary or subordinate category.
ЬЬsubcategorize v.tr. (also -ise). subcategorization n.
subcaudal adj. of or concerning the region under the tail or the back
part of the body.
subclass n. 1 a secondary or subordinate class. 2 Biol. a taxonomic
category below a class.
sub-clause
n. 1 esp. Law a subsidiary section of a clause. 2 Gram. a
subordinate clause.
subclavian
adj. & n. --adj. (of an artery etc.) lying or extending under
the collar-bone. --n. such an artery. [mod.L subclavius (as
SUB-, clavis key): cf. CLAVICLE]
subclinical
adj. Med. (of a disease) not yet presenting definite symptoms.
subcommissioner
n. a deputy commissioner.
subcommittee
n. a secondary committee.
subconical
adj. approximately conical.
subconscious
adj. & n. --adj. of or concerning the part of the mind which is
not fully conscious but influences actions etc. --n. this part
of the mind. ЬЬsubconsciously adv. subconsciousness n.
subcontinent
n. 1 a large land mass, smaller than a continent. 2 a large
geographically or politically independent part of a continent.
ЬЬsubcontinental adj.
subcontract
v. & n. --v. 1 tr. employ a firm etc. to do (work) as part of
a larger project. 2 intr. make or carry out a subcontract.
--n. a secondary contract, esp. to supply materials, labour,
etc. ЬЬsubcontractor n.
subcontrary
adj. & n. Logic --adj. (of a proposition) incapable of being
false at the same time as another. --n. (pl. -ies) such a
proposition. [LL subcontrarius (as SUB-, CONTRARY), transl. Gk
hupenantios]
subcordate
adj. approximately heart-shaped.
subcortical
adj. Anat. below the cortex.
subcostal adj. Anat. below the ribs.
subcranial
adj. Anat. below the cranium.
subcritical
adj. Physics of less than critical mass etc.
subculture
n. a cultural group within a larger culture, often having
beliefs or interests at variance with those of the larger
culture. ЬЬsubcultural adj.
subcutaneous
adj. under the skin. ЬЬsubcutaneously adv.
subdeacon n. Eccl. a minister of the order next below a deacon.
ЬЬsubdiaconate n.
subdean n. an official ranking next below, or acting as a deputy for, a
dean. ЬЬsubdeanery n. (pl. -ies). subdecanal adj.
subdelirious
adj. capable of becoming delirious; mildly delirious.
ЬЬsubdelirium n.
subdivide v.tr. & intr. divide again after a first division. [ME f. L
subdividere (as SUB-, DIVIDE)]
subdivision
n. 1 the act or an instance of subdividing. 2 a secondary or
subordinate division. 3 US & Austral. an area of land divided
into plots for sale.
subdominant
n. Mus. the fourth note of the diatonic scale of any key.
subdue v.tr. (subdues, subdued, subduing) 1 conquer, subjugate, or
tame (an enemy, nature, one's emotions, etc.). 2 (as subdued
adj.) softened; lacking in intensity; toned down (subdued light;
in a subdued mood). ЬЬsubduable adj. subdual n. [ME sodewe f.
OF so(u)duire f. L subducere (as SUB-, ducere lead, bring) used
with the sense of subdere conquer (as SUB-, -dere put)]
sub-editor
n. 1 an assistant editor. 2 Brit. a person who edits material
for printing in a book, newspaper, etc. ЬЬsub-edit v.tr.
(-edited, -editing). sub-editorial adj.
suberect adj. (of an animal, plant, etc.) almost erect.
subereous adj. (also suberic, suberose) 1 of or concerning cork. 2
corky. [L suber cork, cork-oak]
subfamily n. (pl. -ies) 1 Biol. a taxonomic category below a family. 2
any subdivision of a group.
subfloor n. a foundation for a floor in a building.
subform n. a subordinate or secondary form.
subfusc adj. & n. --adj. formal dull; dusky; gloomy. --n. formal
clothing at some universities. [L subfuscus f. fuscus dark
brown]
subgenus n. (pl. subgenera) Biol. a taxonomic category below a genus.
ЬЬsubgeneric adj.
subglacial
adj. next to or at the bottom of a glacier.
subgroup n. Math. etc. a subset of a group.
subhead n. (also subheading) 1 a subordinate heading or title in a
chapter, article, etc. 2 a subordinate division in a
classification.
subhuman adj. 1 (of an animal) closely related to man. 2 (of behaviour,
intelligence, etc.) less than human.
subject n., adj., adv., & v. --n. 1 a a matter, theme, etc. to be
discussed, described, represented, dealt with, etc. b (foll. by
for) a person, circumstance, etc., giving rise to specified
feeling, action, etc. (a subject for congratulation). 2 a
department or field of study (his best subject is geography). 3
Gram. a noun or its equivalent about which a sentence is
predicated and with which the verb agrees. 4 a any person
except a monarch living under a monarchy or any other form of
government (the ruler and his subjects). b any person owing
obedience to another. 5 Philos. a a thinking or feeling
entity; the conscious mind; the ego, esp. as opposed to anything
external to the mind. b the central substance or core of a
thing as opposed to its attributes. 6 Mus. a theme of a fugue
or sonata; a leading phrase or motif. 7 a person of specified
mental or physical tendencies (a hysterical subject). 8 Logic
the part of a proposition about which a statement is made. 9
(in full subject for dissection) a dead body. --adj. 1 (often
foll. by to) owing obedience to a government, colonizing power,
force, etc.; in subjection. 2 (foll. by to) liable, exposed, or
prone to (is subject to infection). 3 (foll. by to) conditional
upon; on the assumption of (the arrangement is subject to your
approval). --adv. (foll. by to) conditionally upon (subject to
your consent, I propose to try again). --v.tr. 1 (foll. by to)
make liable; expose; treat (subjected us to hours of waiting).
2 (usu. foll. by to) subdue (a nation, person, etc.) to one's
sway etc. Ьon the subject of concerning, about. subject and
object Psychol. the ego or self and the non-ego; consciousness
and that of which it is or may be conscious. subject catalogue
a catalogue, esp. in a library, arranged according to the
subjects treated. subject-heading a heading in an index
collecting references to a subject. subject-matter the matter
treated of in a book, lawsuit, etc. ЬЬsubjection n.
subjectless adj. [ME soget etc. f. OF suget etc. f. L subjectus
past part. of subjicere (as SUB-, jacere throw)]
subjective
adj. & n. --adj. 1 (of art, literature, written history, a
person's views, etc.) proceeding from personal idiosyncrasy or
individuality; not impartial or literal. 2 esp. Philos.
proceeding from or belonging to the individual consciousness or
perception; imaginary, partial, or distorted. 3 Gram. of or
concerning the subject. --n. Gram. the subjective case.
Ьsubjective case Gram. the nominative. ЬЬsubjectively adv.
subjectiveness n. subjectivity n. [ME f. L subjectivus (as
SUBJECT)]
subjectivism
n. Philos. the doctrine that knowledge is merely subjective
and that there is no external or objective truth.
ЬЬsubjectivist n.
subjoin v.tr. add or append (an illustration, anecdote, etc.) at the
end. [obs. F subjoindre f. L subjungere (as SUB-, jungere
junct- join)]
subjoint n. a secondary joint (in an insect's leg etc.).
sub judice
adj. Law under judicial consideration and therefore prohibited
from public discussion elsewhere. [L, = under a judge]
subjugate v.tr. bring into subjection; subdue; vanquish. ЬЬsubjugable
adj. subjugation n. subjugator n. [ME f. LL subjugare bring
under the yoke (as SUB-, jugum yoke)]
subjunctive
adj. & n. Gram. --adj. (of a mood) denoting what is imagined
or wished or possible (e.g. if I were you, God help you, be
that as it may). --n. 1 the subjunctive mood. 2 a verb in
this mood. ЬЬsubjunctively adv. [F subjonctif -ive or LL
subjunctivus f. L (as SUBJOIN), transl. Gk hupotaktikos, as
being used in subjoined clauses]
subkingdom
n. Biol. a taxonomic category below a kingdom.
sublease n. & v. --n. a lease of a property by a tenant to a subtenant.
--v.tr. lease (a property) to a subtenant.
sublessee n. a person who holds a sublease.
sublessor n. a person who grants a sublease.
sublet n. & v. --n. = SUBLEASE n. --v.tr. (-letting; past and past
part. -let) = SUBLEASE v.
sub-lieutenant
n. Brit. an officer ranking next below lieutenant.
sublimate v., adj., & n. --v.tr. 1 divert the energy of (a primitive
impulse, esp. sexual) into a culturally higher activity. 2
Chem. convert (a substance) from the solid state directly to its
vapour by heat, and usu. allow it to solidify again. 3 refine;
purify; idealize. --adj. 1 Chem. (of a substance) sublimated.
2 purified, refined. --n. Chem. 1 a sublimated substance. 2
= corrosive sublimate. ЬЬsublimation n. [L sublimare sublimat-
SUBLIME v.]
sublime adj. & v. --adj. (sublimer, sublimest) 1 of the most exalted,
grand, or noble kind; awe-inspiring (sublime genius). 2 (of
indifference, impudence, etc.) arrogantly unruffled. --v. 1
tr. & intr. Chem. = SUBLIMATE v. 2. 2 tr. purify or elevate
by or as if by sublimation; make sublime. 3 intr. become pure
by or as if by sublimation. ЬSublime Porte see PORTE.
ЬЬsublimely adv. sublimity n. [L sublimis (as SUB-, second
element perh. rel. to limen threshold, limus oblique)]
subliminal
adj. Psychol. (of a stimulus etc.) below the threshold of
sensation or consciousness. Ьsubliminal advertising the use of
subliminal images in advertising on television etc. to
influence the viewer at an unconscious level. subliminal self
the part of one's personality outside conscious awareness.
ЬЬsubliminally adv. [SUB- + L limen -inis threshold]
sublingual
adj. under the tongue. [SUB- + L lingua tongue]
sublittoral
adj. 1 (of plants, animals, deposits, etc.) living or found on
the seashore just below the low-water mark. 2 of or concerning
the seashore.
Sub-Lt. abbr. Brit. Sub-Lieutenant.
sublunary adj. 1 beneath the moon. 2 Astron. a within the moon's orbit.
b subject to the moon's influence. 3 of this world; earthly.
[LL sublunaris (as SUB-, LUNAR)]
sub-machine-gun
n. a hand-held lightweight machine-gun.
subman n. (pl. -men) derog. an inferior, brutal, or stupid man.
submarginal
adj. 1 esp. Econ. not reaching minimum requirements. 2 (of
land) that cannot be farmed profitably.
submarine n. & adj. --n. a vessel, esp. a warship, capable of operating
under water and usu. equipped with torpedoes, missiles, and a
periscope. --adj. existing, occurring, done, or used under the
surface of the sea (submarine cable). ЬЬsubmariner n.
submaster n. an assistant master or assistant headmaster in a school.
submaxillary
adj. beneath the lower jaw.
submediant
n. Mus. the sixth note of the diatonic scale of any key.
submental adj. under the chin.
submerge v. 1 tr. a place under water; flood; inundate. b flood or
inundate with work, problems, etc. 2 intr. (of a submarine, its
crew, a diver, etc.) dive below the surface of water. Ьthe
submerged tenth the supposed fraction of the population
permanently living in poverty. ЬЬsubmergence n. submergible
adj. submersion n. [L submergere (as SUB-, mergere mers- dip)]
submersible
n. & adj. --n. a submarine operating under water for short
periods. --adj. capable of being submerged. [submerse (v.) =
SUBMERGE]
submicroscopic
adj. too small to be seen by an ordinary microscope.
subminiature
adj. 1 of greatly reduced size. 2 (of a camera) very small and
using 16-mm film.
submission
n. 1 a the act or an instance of submitting; the state of being
submitted. b anything that is submitted. 2 humility, meekness,
obedience, submissiveness (showed great submission of spirit).
3 Law a theory etc. submitted by counsel to a judge or jury. 4
(in wrestling) the surrender of a participant yielding to the
pain of a hold. [ME f. OF submission or L submissio (as
SUBMIT)]
submissive
adj. 1 humble; obedient. 2 yielding to power or authority;
willing to submit. ЬЬsubmissively adv. submissiveness n.
[SUBMISSION after remissive etc.]
submit v. (submitted, submitting) 1 (usu. foll. by to) a intr. cease
resistance; give way; yield (had to submit to defeat; will never
submit). b refl. surrender (oneself) to the control of another
etc. 2 tr. present for consideration or decision. 3 tr. (usu.
foll. by to) subject (a person or thing) to an operation,
process, treatment, etc. (submitted it to the flames). 4 tr.
esp. Law urge or represent esp. deferentially (that, I submit,
is a misrepresentation). ЬЬsubmitter n. [ME f. L submittere
(as SUB-, mittere miss- send)]
submultiple
n. & adj. --n. a number that can be divided exactly into a
specified number. --adj. being such a number.
subnormal adj. 1 (esp. as regards intelligence) below normal. 2 less
than normal. ЬЬsubnormality n.
subnuclear
adj. Physics occurring in or smaller than an atomic nucleus.
subocular adj. situated below or under the eyes.
suborbital
adj. 1 situated below the orbit of the eye. 2 (of a spaceship
etc.) not completing a full orbit of the earth.
suborder n. a taxonomic category between an order and a family.
ЬЬsubordinal adj.
subordinary
n. (pl. -ies) Heraldry a device or bearing that is common but
less so than ordinaries.
subordinate
adj., n., & v. --adj. (usu. foll. by to) of inferior
importance or rank; secondary, subservient. --n. a person
working under another's control or orders. --v.tr. (usu. foll.
by to) 1 make subordinate; treat or regard as of minor
importance. 2 make subservient. Ьsubordinate clause a clause
serving as an adjective, adverb, or noun in a main sentence
because of its position or a preceding conjunction.
ЬЬsubordinately adv. subordination n. subordinative adj.
[med.L subordinare, subordinat- (as SUB-, L ordinare ordain)]
suborn v.tr. induce by bribery etc. to commit perjury or any other
unlawful act. ЬЬsubornation n. suborner n. [L subornare
incite secretly (as SUB-, ornare equip)]
suboxide n. Chem. an oxide containing the smallest proportion of
oxygen.
subphylum n. (pl. subphyla) Biol. a taxonomic category below a phylum.
sub-plot n. a subordinate plot in a play etc.
subpoena n. & v. --n. a writ ordering a person to attend a lawcourt.
--v.tr. (past and past part. subpoenaed or subpoena'd) serve a
subpoena on. [ME f. L sub poena under penalty (the first words
of the writ)]
subregion n. a division of a region, esp. with regard to natural life.
ЬЬsubregional adj.
subreption
n. formal the obtaining of a thing by surprise or
misrepresentation. [L subreptio purloining f. subripere (as
SUB-, rapere snatch)]
subrogation
n. Law the substitution of one party for another as creditor,
with the transfer of rights and duties. ЬЬsubrogate v.tr. [LL
subrogatio f. subrogare choose as substitute (as SUB-, rogare
ask)]
sub rosa adj. & adv. (of communication, consultation, etc.) in secrecy
or confidence. [L, lit. 'under the rose', as emblem of secrecy]
subroutine
n. Computing a routine designed to perform a frequently used
operation within a program.
subscribe v. 1 (usu. foll. by to, for) a tr. & intr. contribute (a
specified sum) or make or promise a contribution to a fund,
project, charity, etc., esp. regularly. b intr. enter one's
name in a list of contributors to a charity etc. c tr. raise or
guarantee raising (a sum) by so subscribing. 2 intr. (usu.
foll. by to) express one's agreement with an opinion,
resolution, etc. (cannot subscribe to that). 3 tr. a write
(esp. one's name) at the foot of a document etc. (subscribed a
motto). b write one's name at the foot of, sign (a document,
picture, etc.). Ьsubscribe for agree to take a copy or copies
of (a book) before publication. subscribe oneself sign one's
name as. subscribe to arrange to receive (a periodical etc.)
regularly. [ME f. L subscribere (as SUB-, scribere script-
write)]
subscriber
n. 1 a person who subscribes. 2 a person paying for the hire
of a telephone line. Ьsubscriber trunk dialling Brit. the
automatic connection of trunk calls by dialling without the
assistance of an operator.
subscript adj. & n. --adj. written or printed below the line, esp. Math.
(of a symbol) written below and to the right of another symbol.
--n. a subscript number or symbol. [L subscriptus (as
SUBSCRIBE)]
subscription
n. 1 a the act or an instance of subscribing. b money
subscribed. 2 Brit. a fee for the membership of a society etc.,
esp. paid regularly. 3 a an agreement to take and pay for usu.
a specified number of issues of a newspaper, magazine, etc. b
the money paid by this. 4 a signature on a document etc. 5 the
offer of a reduced price to those ordering a book before
publication. Ьsubscription concert etc. each of a series of
concerts etc. for which tickets are sold in advance. [ME f. L
subscriptio (as SUBSCRIBE)]
subsection
n. a division of a section.
subsellium
n. (pl. subsellia) = MISERICORD 1. [L f. sella seat]
subsequence
n. a subsequent incident; a consequence.
sub-sequence
n. a sequence forming part of a larger one.
subsequent
adj. (usu. foll. by to) following a specified event etc. in
time, esp. as a consequence. ЬЬsubsequently adv. [ME f. OF
subsequent or L subsequi (as SUB-, sequi follow)]
subserve v.tr. serve as a means in furthering (a purpose, action, etc.).
[L subservire (as SUB-, SERVE)]
subservient
adj. 1 cringing; obsequious. 2 (usu. foll. by to) serving as a
means; instrumental. 3 (usu. foll. by to) subordinate.
ЬЬsubservience n. subserviency n. subserviently adv. [L
subserviens subservient- (as SUBSERVE)]
subset n. 1 a secondary part of a set. 2 Math. a set all the elements
of which are contained in another set.
subshrub n. a low-growing or small shrub.
subside v.intr. 1 cease from agitation; become tranquil; abate
(excitement subsided). 2 (of water, suspended matter, etc.)
sink. 3 (of the ground) cave in; sink. 4 (of a building, ship,
etc.) sink lower in the ground or water. 5 (of a swelling etc.)
become less. 6 usu. joc. (of a person) sink into a sitting,
kneeling, or lying posture. ЬЬsubsidence n. [L subsidere (as
SUB-, sidere settle rel. to sedere sit)]
subsidiary
adj. & n. --adj. 1 serving to assist or supplement; auxiliary.
2 (of a company) controlled by another. 3 (of troops): a paid
for by subsidy. b hired by another nation. --n. (pl. -ies) 1
a subsidiary thing or person; an accessory. 2 a subsidiary
company. ЬЬsubsidiarily adv. subsidiarity n. [L subsidiarius
(as SUBSIDY)]
subsidize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 pay a subsidy to. 2 reduce the cost of by
subsidy (subsidized lunches). ЬЬsubsidization n. subsidizer n.
subsidy n. (pl. -ies) 1 a money granted by the State or a public body
etc. to keep down the price of commodities etc. (housing
subsidy). b money granted to a charity or other undertaking
held to be in the public interest. c any grant or contribution
of money. 2 money paid by one State to another in return for
military, naval, or other aid. 3 hist. a a parliamentary grant
to the sovereign for State needs. b a tax levied on a
particular occasion. [ME f. AF subsidie, OF subside f. L
subsidium assistance]
subsist v. 1 intr. (often foll. by on) keep oneself alive; be kept
alive (subsists on vegetables). 2 intr. remain in being; exist.
3 intr. (foll. by in) be attributable to (its excellence
subsists in its freshness). 4 tr. archaic provide sustenance
for. ЬЬsubsistent adj. [L subsistere stand firm (as SUB-,
sistere set, stand)]
subsistence
n. 1 the state or an instance of subsisting. 2 a the means of
supporting life; a livelihood. b a minimal level of existence
or the income providing this (a bare subsistence). Ьsubsistence
allowance (or money) esp. Brit. an allowance or advance on pay
granted esp. as travelling expenses. subsistence farming
farming which directly supports the farmer's household without
producing a significant surplus for trade. subsistence level
(or wage) a standard of living (or wage) providing only the bare
necessities of life.
subsoil n. soil lying immediately under the surface soil (opp.
TOPSOIL).
subsonic adj. relating to speeds less than that of sound.
ЬЬsubsonically adv.
subspecies
n. (pl. same) Biol. a taxonomic category below a species, usu.
a fairly permanent geographically isolated variety.
ЬЬsubspecific adj.
substance n. 1 a the essential material, esp. solid, forming a thing (the
substance was transparent). b a particular kind of material
having uniform properties (this substance is salt). 2 a
reality; solidity (ghosts have no substance). b seriousness or
steadiness of character (there is no substance in him). 3 the
theme or subject of esp. a work of art, argument, etc. (prefer
the substance to the style). 4 the real meaning or essence of a
thing. 5 wealth and possessions (a woman of substance). 6
Philos. the essential nature underlying phenomena, which is
subject to changes and accidents. Ьin substance generally;
apart from details. [ME f. OF f. L substantia (as SUB-, stare
stand)]
substandard
adj. 1 of less than the required or normal quality or size;
inferior. 2 (of language) not conforming to standard usage.
substantial
adj. 1 a of real importance or value (made a substantial
contribution). b of large size or amount (awarded substantial
damages). 2 of solid material or structure; stout (a man of
substantial build; a substantial house). 3 commercially
successful; wealthy. 4 essential; true in large part
(substantial truth). 5 having substance; real.
ЬЬsubstantiality n. substantially adv. [ME f. OF substantiel
or LL substantialis (as SUBSTANCE)]
substantialism
n. Philos. the doctrine that behind phenomena there are
substantial realities. ЬЬsubstantialist n.
substantialize
v.tr. & intr. (also -ise) invest with or acquire substance or
actual existence.
substantiate
v.tr. prove the truth of (a charge, statement, claim, etc.);
give good grounds for. ЬЬsubstantiation n. [med.L substantiare
give substance to (as SUBSTANCE)]
substantive
adj. & n. --adj. also 1 having separate and independent
existence. 2 Law relating to rights and duties. 3 (of an
enactment, motion, resolution, etc.) made in due form as such;
not amended. 4 Gram. expressing existence. 5 (of a dye) not
needing a mordant. 6 Mil. (of a rank etc.) permanent, not
acting or temporary. 7 archaic denoting a substance. --n.
Gram. = NOUN. Ьthe substantive verb the verb 'to be'.
ЬЬsubstantival adj. substantively adv. esp. Gram. [ME f. OF
substantif -ive, or LL substantivus (as SUBSTANCE)]
substation
n. a subordinate station, esp. one reducing the high voltage of
electric power transmission to that suitable for supply to
consumers.
substituent
adj. & n. Chem. --adj. (of a group of atoms) replacing another
atom or group in a compound. --n. such a group. [L substituere
substituent- (as SUBSTITUTE)]
substitute
n. & v. --n. 1 a (also attrib.) a person or thing acting or
serving in place of another. b an artificial alternative to a
natural substance (butter substitute). 2 Sc. Law a deputy.
--v. 1 intr. & tr. (often foll. by for) act or cause to act as
a substitute; put or serve in exchange (substituted for her
mother; substituted it for the broken one). 2 tr. (usu. foll.
by by, with) colloq. replace (a person or thing) with another.
3 tr. Chem. replace (an atom or group in a molecule) with
another. ЬЬsubstitutable adj. substitutability n.
substitution n. substitutional adj. substitutionary adj.
substitutive adj. [ME f. L substitutus past part. of
substituere (as SUB-, statuere set up)]
substrate n. 1 = SUBSTRATUM. 2 a surface to be painted, printed, etc.,
on. 3 Biol. a the substance upon which an enzyme acts. b the
surface or material on which any particular organism grows.
[Anglicized f. SUBSTRATUM]
substratum
n. (pl. substrata) 1 an underlying layer or substance. 2 a
layer of rock or soil beneath the surface. 3 a foundation or
basis (there is a substratum of truth in it). [mod.L, past
part. of L substernere (as SUB-, sternere strew): cf. STRATUM]
substructure
n. an underlying or supporting structure. ЬЬsubstructural adj.
subsume v.tr. (usu. foll. by under) include (an instance, idea,
category, etc.) in a rule, class, category, etc. ЬЬsubsumable
adj. subsumption n. [med.L subsumere (as SUB-, sumere sumpt-
take)]
subtenant n. a person who leases a property from a tenant. ЬЬsubtenancy
n.
subtend v.tr. 1 a (usu. foll. by at) (of a line, arc, figure, etc.)
form (an angle) at a particular point when its extremities are
joined at that point. b (of an angle or chord) have bounding
lines or points that meet or coincide with those of (a line or
arc). 2 Bot. (of a bract etc.) extend under so as to embrace or
enfold. [L subtendere (as SUB-, tendere stretch)]
subterfuge
n. 1 a an attempt to avoid blame or defeat esp. by lying or
deceit. b a statement etc. resorted to for such a purpose. 2
this as a practice or policy. [F subterfuge or LL subterfugium
f. L subterfugere escape secretly f. subter beneath + fugere
flee]
subterminal
adj. nearly at the end.
subterranean
adj. 1 existing, occurring, or done under the earth's surface.
2 secret, underground, concealed. ЬЬsubterraneously adv. [L
subterraneus (as SUB-, terra earth)]
subtext n. an underlying often distinct theme in a piece of writing.
subtilize v. (also -ise) 1 tr. a make subtle. b elevate; refine. 2
intr. (usu. foll. by upon) argue or reason subtly.
ЬЬsubtilization n. [F subtiliser or med.L subtilizare (as
SUBTLE)]
subtitle n. & v. --n. 1 a secondary or additional title of a book etc.
2 a printed caption at the bottom of a film etc., esp.
translating dialogue. --v.tr. provide with a subtitle or
subtitles.
subtle adj. (subtler, subtlest) 1 evasive or mysterious; hard to grasp
(subtle charm; a subtle distinction). 2 (of scent, colour,
etc.) faint, delicate, elusive (subtle perfume). 3 a capable of
making fine distinctions; perceptive; acute (subtle intellect;
subtle senses). b ingenious; elaborate; clever (a subtle
device). 4 archaic crafty, cunning. ЬЬsubtleness n. subtly
adv. [ME f. OF sotil f. L subtilis]
subtlety n. (pl. -ies) 1 something subtle. 2 a fine distinction; an
instance of hairsplitting. [ME f. OF s(o)utilt‚ f. L subtilitas
-tatis (as SUBTLE)]
subtonic n. Mus. the note below the tonic, the seventh note of the
diatonic scale of any key.
subtopia n. Brit. derog. unsightly and sprawling suburban development.
ЬЬsubtopian adj. [SUBURB, UTOPIA]
subtotal n. the total of one part of a group of figures to be added.
subtract v.tr. (often foll. by from) deduct (a part, quantity, or
number) from another. ЬЬsubtracter n. (cf. SUBTRACTOR).
subtraction n. subtractive adj. [L subtrahere subtract- (as
SUB-, trahere draw)]
subtractor
n. Electronics a circuit or device that produces an output
dependent on the difference of two inputs.
subtrahend
n. Math. a quantity or number to be subtracted. [L
subtrahendus gerundive of subtrahere: see SUBTRACT]
subtropics
n.pl. the regions adjacent to or bordering on the tropics.
ЬЬsubtropical adj.
suburb n. an outlying district of a city, esp. residential. [ME f. OF
suburbe or L suburbium (as SUB-, urbs urbis city)]
suburban adj. 1 of or characteristic of suburbs. 2 derog. provincial,
uncultured, or na‹ve. ЬЬsuburbanite n. suburbanize v.tr.
(also -ise). suburbanization n. [L suburbanus (as SUBURB)]
suburbia n. often derog. the suburbs, their inhabitants, and their way
of life.
subvention
n. a grant of money from a government etc.; a subsidy. [ME f.
OF f. LL subventio -onis f. L subvenire subvent- assist (as
SUB-, venire come)]
subversive
adj. & n. --adj. (of a person, organization, activity, etc.)
seeking to subvert (esp. a government). --n. a subversive
person; a revolutionary. ЬЬsubversion n. subversively adv.
subversiveness n. [med.L subversivus (as SUBVERT)]
subvert v.tr. esp. Polit. overturn, overthrow, or upset (religion,
government, the monarchy, morality, etc.). ЬЬsubverter n. [ME
f. OF subvertir or L subvertere (as SUB-, vertere vers- turn)]
subway n. 1 a a tunnel beneath a road etc. for pedestrians. b an
underground passage for pipes, cables, etc. 2 esp. US an
underground railway.
subzero adj. (esp. of temperature) lower than zero.
suc- prefix assim. form of SUB- before c.
succedaneum
n. (pl. succedanea) a substitute, esp. for a medicine or drug.
ЬЬsuccedaneous adj. [mod.L, neut. of L succedaneus (as
SUCCEED)]
succeed v. 1 intr. a (often foll. by in) accomplish one's purpose;
have success; prosper (succeeded in his ambition). b (of a plan
etc.) be successful. 2 a tr. follow in order; come next after
(night succeeded day). b intr. (foll. by to) come next, be
subsequent. 3 intr. (often foll. by to) come by an inheritance,
office, title, or property (succeeded to the throne). 4 tr.
take over an office, property, inheritance, etc. from (succeeded
his father; succeeded the manager). Ьnothing succeeds like
success one success leads to others. ЬЬsucceeder n. [ME f. OF
succeder or L succedere (as SUB-, cedere cess- go)]
succentor n. Eccl. a precentor's deputy in some cathedrals.
ЬЬsuccentorship n. [LL f. L succinere (as SUB-, canere sing)]
succЉs de scandale
n. a book, play, etc. having great success because of its
scandalous nature or associations. [F]
success n. 1 the accomplishment of an aim; a favourable outcome (their
efforts met with success). 2 the attainment of wealth, fame, or
position (spoilt by success). 3 a thing or person that turns
out well. 4 archaic a usu. specified outcome of an undertaking
(ill success). Ьsuccess story a person's rise from poverty to
wealth etc. [L successus (as SUCCEED)]
successful
adj. having success; prosperous. ЬЬsuccessfully adv.
successfulness n.
succession
n. 1 a the process of following in order; succeeding. b a
series of things or people in succession. 2 a the right of
succeeding to the throne, an office, inheritance, etc. b the
act or process of so succeeding. c those having such a right.
3 Biol. the order of development of a species or community; =
SERE(3). Ьin quick succession following one another at short
intervals. in succession one after another, without
intervention. in succession to as the successor of. law of
succession the law regulating inheritance. settle the
succession determine who shall succeed. Succession State a
State resulting from the partition of a previously existing
country. ЬЬsuccessional adj. [ME f. OF succession or L
successio (as SUCCEED)]
successive
adj. following one after another; running, consecutive.
ЬЬsuccessively adv. successiveness n. [ME f. med.L successivus
(as SUCCEED)]
successor n. (often foll. by to) a person or thing that succeeds to
another. [ME f. OF successour f. L successor (as SUCCEED)]
succinct adj. briefly expressed; terse, concise. ЬЬsuccinctly adv.
succinctness n. [ME f. L succinctus past part. of succingere
tuck up (as SUB-, cingere gird)]
succinic acid
n. Chem. a crystalline dibasic acid derived from amber etc.
ЬЬsuccinate n. [F succinique f. L succinum amber]
succor US var. of SUCCOUR.
succory n. = CHICORY 1. [alt. f. cicoree etc., early forms of
CHICORY]
succotash n. US a dish of green maize and beans boiled together.
[Narraganset msiquatash]
Succoth n. the Jewish autumn thanksgiving festival commemorating the
sheltering in the wilderness. [Heb. sukk“t pl. of sukkah
thicket, hut]
succour n. & v. (US succor) --n. 1 aid; assistance, esp. in time of
need. 2 (in pl.) archaic reinforcements of troops. --v.tr.
assist or aid (esp. a person in danger or distress).
ЬЬsuccourless adj. [ME f. OF socours f. med.L succursus f. L
succurrere (as SUB-, currere curs- run)]
succubus n. (pl. succubi) a female demon believed to have sexual
intercourse with sleeping men. [LL succuba prostitute, med.L
succubus f. succubare (as SUB-, cubare lie)]
succulent adj. & n. --adj. 1 juicy; palatable. 2 colloq. desirable. 3
Bot. (of a plant, its leaves, or stems) thick and fleshy. --n.
Bot. a succulent plant, esp. a cactus. ЬЬsucculence n.
succulently adv. [L succulentus f. succus juice]
succumb v.intr. (usu. foll. by to) 1 be forced to give way; be overcome
(succumbed to temptation). 2 be overcome by death (succumbed to
his injuries). [ME f. OF succomber or L succumbere (as SUB-,
cumbere lie)]
succursal adj. Eccl. (of a chapel etc.) subsidiary. [F succursale f.
med.L succursus (as SUCCOUR)]
such adj. & pron. --adj. 1 (often foll. by as) of the kind or
degree in question or under consideration (such a person; such
people; people such as these). 2 (usu. foll. by as to + infin.
or that + clause) so great; in such high degree (not such a fool
as to believe them; had such a fright that he fainted). 3 of a
more than normal kind or degree (we had such an enjoyable
evening; such horrid language). 4 of the kind or degree already
indicated, or implied by the context (there are no such things;
such is life). 5 Law or formal the aforesaid; of the aforesaid
kind. --pron. 1 the thing or action in question or referred to
(such were his words; such was not my intention). 2 a Commerce
or colloq. the aforesaid thing or things; it, they, or them
(those without tickets should purchase such). b similar things;
suchlike (brought sandwiches and such). Ьas such as being what
has been indicated or named (a stranger is welcomed as such;
there is no theatre as such). such-and-such --adj. of a
particular kind but not needing to be specified. --n. a person
or thing of this kind. such-and-such a person someone;
so-and-so. such as 1 of a kind that; like (a person such as we
all admire). 2 for example (insects, such as moths and bees).
3 those who (such as don't need help). such as it is despite
its shortcomings (you are welcome to it, such as it is). such a
one 1 (usu. foll. by as) such a person or such a thing. 2
archaic some person or thing unspecified. [OE swilc, swylc f.
Gmc: cf. LIKE(1)]
suchlike adj. & n. colloq. --adj. of such a kind. --n. things, people,
etc. of such a kind.
suck v. & n. --v. 1 tr. draw (a fluid) into the mouth by making a
partial vacuum. 2 tr. (also absol.) a draw milk or other fluid
from or through (the breast etc. or a container). b extract
juice from (a fruit) by sucking. 3 tr. a draw sustenance,
knowledge, or advantage from (a book etc.). b imbibe or gain
(knowledge, advantage, etc.) as if by sucking. 4 tr. roll the
tongue round (a sweet, teeth, one's thumb, etc.). 5 intr. make
a sucking action or sound (sucking at his pipe). 6 intr. (of a
pump etc.) make a gurgling or drawing sound. 7 tr. (usu. foll.
by down, in) engulf, smother, or drown in a sucking movement.
--n. 1 the act or an instance of sucking, esp. the breast. 2
the drawing action or sound of a whirlpool etc. 3 (often foll.
by of) a small draught of liquor. 4 (in pl.; esp. as int.)
colloq. a an expression of disappointment. b an expression of
derision or amusement at another's discomfiture. Ьgive suck
archaic (of a mother, dam, etc.) suckle. suck dry 1 exhaust the
contents of (a bottle, the breast, etc.) by sucking. 2 exhaust
(a person's sympathy, resources, etc.) as if by sucking. suck
in 1 absorb. 2 = sense 7 of v. 3 involve (a person) in an
activity etc. esp. against his or her will. suck up 1 (often
foll. by to) colloq. behave obsequiously esp. for one's own
advantage. 2 absorb. [OE sucan, = L sugere]
sucker n. & v. --n. 1 a a person or thing that sucks. b a
sucking-pig, newborn whale, etc. 2 sl. a a gullible or easily
deceived person. b (foll. by for) a person especially
susceptible to. 3 a a rubber cup etc. that adheres to a surface
by suction. b an organ enabling an organism to cling to a
surface by suction. 4 Bot. a shoot springing from the rooted
part of a stem, from the root at a distance from the main stem,
from an axil, or occasionally from a branch. 5 any of various
fish that has a mouth capable of or seeming to be capable of
adhering by suction. 6 a the piston of a suction-pump. b a
pipe through which liquid is drawn by suction. 7 US colloq. a
lollipop. --v. Bot. 1 tr. remove suckers from. 2 intr.
produce suckers.
sucking adj. 1 (of a child, animal, etc.) not yet weaned. 2 Zool.
unfledged (sucking dove). Ьsucking-disc an organ used for
adhering to a surface. sucking-fish = REMORA.
suckle v. 1 tr. a feed (young) from the breast or udder. b nourish
(suckled his talent). 2 intr. feed by sucking the breast etc.
ЬЬsuckler n. [ME, prob. back-form. f. SUCKLING]
suckling n. an unweaned child or animal.
sucrose n. Chem. sugar, a disaccharide obtained from sugar cane, sugar
beet, etc. [F sucre SUGAR]
suction n. 1 the act or an instance of sucking. 2 a the production of
a partial vacuum by the removal of air etc. in order to force in
liquid etc. or procure adhesion. b the force produced by this
process (suction keeps the lid on). Ьsuction-pump a pump for
drawing liquid through a pipe into a chamber emptied by a
piston. [LL suctio f. L sugere suct- SUCK]
suctorial adj. Zool. 1 adapted for or capable of sucking. 2 having a
sucker for feeding or adhering. ЬЬsuctorian n. [mod.L
suctorius (as SUCTION)]
Sudanese adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to Sudan, a republic in NE
Africa, or the Sudan region south of the Sahara. --n. (pl.
same) 1 a native, national, or inhabitant of Sudan. 2 a person
of Sudanese descent.
sudarium n. (pl. sudaria) 1 a cloth for wiping the face. 2 RC Ch. =
VERONICA 2. [L, = napkin f. sudor sweat]
sudatorium
n. (pl. sudatoria) esp. Rom. Antiq. 1 a hot-air or steam
bath. 2 a room where such a bath is taken. [L, neut. of
sudatorius: see SUDATORY]
sudatory adj. & n. --adj. promoting perspiration. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 a
sudatory drug. 2 = SUDATORIUM. [L sudatorius f. sudare sweat]
sudd n. floating vegetation impeding the navigation of the White
Nile. [Arab., = obstruction]
sudden adj. & n. --adj. occurring or done unexpectedly or without
warning; abrupt, hurried, hasty (a sudden storm; a sudden
departure). --n. archaic a hasty or abrupt occurrence. Ьall
of a sudden unexpectedly; hurriedly; suddenly. on a sudden
archaic suddenly. sudden death colloq. a decision in a tied
game etc. dependent on one move, card, toss of a coin, etc.
sudden infant death syndrome Med. = cot-death (see COT(1)).
ЬЬsuddenly adv. suddenness n. [ME f. AF sodein, sudein, OF
soudain f. LL subitanus f. L subitaneus f. subitus sudden]
sudoriferous
adj. (of a gland etc.) secreting sweat. [LL sudorifer f. L
sudor sweat]
sudorific adj. & n. --adj. (of a drug) causing sweating. --n. a
sudorific drug. [mod.L sudorificus f. L sudor sweat]
Sudra n. a member of the lowest of the four great Hindu castes.
[Skr. sudra]
suds n. & v. --n.pl. 1 froth of soap and water. 2 US colloq. beer.
--v. 1 intr. form suds. 2 tr. lather, cover, or wash in soapy
water. ЬЬsudsy adj. [orig. = fen waters etc., of uncert.
orig.: cf. MDu., MLG sudde, MDu. sudse marsh, bog, prob. rel.
to SEETHE]
sue v. (sues, sued, suing) 1 tr. (also absol.) Law institute legal
proceedings against (a person). 2 tr. (also absol.) entreat (a
person). 3 intr. (often foll. by to, for) Law make application
to a lawcourt for redress. 4 intr. (often foll. by to, for)
make entreaty to a person for a favour. 5 tr. (often foll. by
out) make a petition in a lawcourt for and obtain (a writ,
pardon, etc.). ЬЬsuer n. [ME f. AF suer, siwer, etc. f. OF
siu- etc. stem of sivre f. L sequi follow]
suede n. (often attrib.) 1 leather, esp. kidskin, with the flesh side
rubbed to make a velvety nap. 2 (also suede-cloth) a woven
fabric resembling suede. [F (gants de) SuЉde (gloves of)
Sweden]
suet n. the hard white fat on the kidneys or loins of oxen, sheep,
etc., used to make dough etc. Ьsuet pudding a pudding of suet
etc., usu. boiled or steamed. ЬЬsuety adj. [ME f. AF f. OF seu
f. L sebum tallow]
suf- prefix assim. form of SUB- before f.
suffer v. 1 intr. undergo pain, grief, damage, etc. (suffers acutely;
your reputation will suffer; suffers from neglect). 2 tr.
undergo, experience, or be subjected to (pain, loss, grief,
defeat, change, etc.) (suffered banishment). 3 tr. put up with;
tolerate (does not suffer fools gladly). 4 intr. undergo
martyrdom. 5 intr. (usu. foll. by to + infin.) archaic allow.
ЬЬsufferable adj. sufferer n. suffering n. [ME f. AF suffrir,
soeffrir, OF sof(f)rir f. L sufferre (as SUB-, ferre bear)]
sufferance
n. 1 tacit consent, abstinence from objection. 2 archaic
submissiveness. Ьon sufferance with toleration implied by lack
of consent or objection. [ME f. AF, OF suffraunce f. LL
sufferentia (as SUFFER)]
suffice v. 1 intr. (often foll. by for, or to + infin.) be enough or
adequate (that will suffice for our purpose; suffices to prove
it). 2 tr. meet the needs of; satisfy (six sufficed him).
Ьsuffice it to say I shall content myself with saying. [ME f.
OF suffire (suffis-) f. L sufficere (as SUB-, facere make)]
sufficiency
n. (pl. -ies) 1 (often foll. by of) an adequate amount or
adequate resources. 2 archaic being sufficient; ability;
efficiency. [LL sufficientia (as SUFFICIENT)]
sufficient
adj. 1 sufficing, adequate, enough (is sufficient for a family;
didn't have sufficient funds). 2 = SELF-SUFFICIENT. 3 archaic
competent; of adequate ability, resources, etc. ЬЬsufficiently
adv. [ME f. OF sufficient or L sufficiens (as SUFFICE)]
suffix n. & v. --n. 1 a verbal element added at the end of a word to
form a derivative (e.g. -ation, -fy, -ing, -itis). 2 Math. =
SUBSCRIPT. --v.tr. also append, esp. as a suffix.
ЬЬsuffixation n. [suffixum, suffixus past part. of L suffigere
(as SUB-, figere fix- fasten)]
suffocate v. 1 tr. choke or kill by stopping breathing, esp. by pressure,
fumes, etc. 2 tr. (often foll. by by, with) produce a choking
or breathless sensation in, esp. by excitement, terror, etc. 3
intr. be or feel suffocated or breathless. ЬЬsuffocating adj.
suffocatingly adv. suffocation n. [L suffocare (as SUB-,
fauces throat)]
Suffolk n. 1 a sheep of a black-faced breed. 2 this breed. [Suffolk
in S. England]
Suffolk punch
see PUNCH(4) 2.
suffragan n. (in full suffragan bishop or bishop suffragan) 1 a bishop
appointed to help a diocesan bishop in the administration of a
diocese. 2 a bishop in relation to his archbishop or
metropolitan. Ьsuffragan see the see of a suffragan bishop.
ЬЬsuffraganship n. [ME f. AF & OF, repr. med.L suffraganeus
assistant (bishop) f. L suffragium (see SUFFRAGE): orig. of a
bishop summoned to vote in synod]
suffrage n. 1 a the right of voting in political elections (full adult
suffrage). b a view expressed by voting; a vote (gave their
suffrages for and against). c opinion in support of a proposal
etc. 2 (esp. in pl.) Eccl. a a prayer made by a priest in the
liturgy. b a short prayer made by a congregation esp. in
response to a priest. c archaic an intercessory prayer. [ME f.
L suffragium, partly through F suffrage]
suffragette
n. hist. a woman seeking the right to vote through organized
protest. [SUFFRAGE + -ETTE]
suffragist
n. esp. hist. a person who advocates the extension of the
suffrage, esp. to women. ЬЬsuffragism n.
suffuse v.tr. 1 (of colour, moisture, etc.) spread from within to
colour or moisten (a blush suffused her cheeks). 2 cover with
colour etc. ЬЬsuffusion n. [L suffundere suffus- (as SUB-,
fundere pour)]
Sufi n. (pl. Sufis) a Muslim ascetic and mystic. ЬЬSufic adj.
Sufism n. [Arab. sufi, perh. f. suf wool (from the woollen
garment worn)]
sug- prefix assim. form of SUB- before g.
sugar n. & v. --n. 1 a sweet crystalline substance obtained from
various plants, esp. the sugar cane and sugar beet, used in
cookery, confectionery, brewing, etc.; sucrose. 2 Chem. any of
a group of soluble usu. sweet-tasting crystalline carbohydrates
found esp. in plants, e.g. glucose. 3 esp. US colloq. darling,
dear (used as a term of address). 4 sweet words; flattery. 5
anything comparable to sugar encasing a pill in reconciling a
person to what is unpalatable. 6 sl. a narcotic drug, esp.
heroin or LSD (taken on a lump of sugar). --v.tr. 1 sweeten
with sugar. 2 make (one's words, meaning, etc.) more pleasant
or welcome. 3 coat with sugar (sugared almond). 4 spread a
sugar mixture on (a tree) to catch moths. Ьsugar beet a beet,
Beta vulgaris, from which sugar is extracted. sugar-candy see
CANDY 1. sugar cane Bot. any perennial tropical grass of the
genus Saccharum, esp. S. officinarum, with tall stout jointed
stems from which sugar is made. sugar-coated 1 (of food)
enclosed in sugar. 2 made superficially attractive.
sugar-daddy (pl. -ies) sl. an elderly man who lavishes gifts
on a young woman. sugar-gum Bot. an Australian eucalyptus,
Eucalyptus cladocalyx, with sweet foliage eaten by cattle.
sugar loaf a conical moulded mass of sugar. sugar-maple any of
various trees, esp. Acer saccharum, from the sap of which sugar
is made. sugar of lead Chem. = lead acetate (see LEAD(2)).
sugar-pea a variety of pea eaten whole including the pod. sugar
the pill see PILL. sugar soap an alkaline compound for cleaning
or removing paint. ЬЬsugarless adj. [ME f. OF ‡ukre, sukere f.
It. zucchero prob. f. med.L succarum f. Arab. sukkar]
sugarplum n. archaic a small round sweet of flavoured boiled sugar.
sugary adj. 1 containing or resembling sugar. 2 excessively sweet or
esp. sentimental. 3 falsely sweet or pleasant (sugary
compliments). ЬЬsugariness n.
suggest v.tr. 1 (often foll. by that + clause) propose (a theory, plan,
or hypothesis) (suggested to them that they should wait;
suggested a different plan). 2 a cause (an idea, memory,
association, etc.) to present itself; evoke (poem suggests
peace). b hint at (his behaviour suggests guilt). Ьsuggest
itself (of an idea etc.) come into the mind. ЬЬsuggester n. [L
suggerere suggest- (as SUB-, gerere bring)]
suggestible
adj. 1 capable of being suggested. 2 open to suggestion;
easily swayed. ЬЬsuggestibility n.
suggestion
n. 1 the act or an instance of suggesting; the state of being
suggested. 2 a theory, plan, etc., suggested (made a helpful
suggestion). 3 a slight trace; a hint (a suggestion of garlic).
4 Psychol. a the insinuation of a belief etc. into the mind. b
such a belief etc. [ME f. OF f. L suggestio -onis (as SUGGEST)]
suggestive
adj. 1 (usu. foll. by of) conveying a suggestion; evocative. 2
(esp. of a remark, joke, etc.) indecent; improper.
ЬЬsuggestively adv. suggestiveness n.
suicidal adj. 1 inclined to commit suicide. 2 of or concerning suicide.
3 self-destructive; fatally or disastrously rash. ЬЬsuicidally
adv.
suicide n. & v. --n. 1 a the intentional killing of oneself. b a
person who commits suicide. 2 a self-destructive action or
course (political suicide). 3 (attrib.) Mil. designating a
highly dangerous or deliberately suicidal operation etc. (a
suicide mission). --v.intr. commit suicide. Ьsuicide pact an
agreement between two or more people to commit suicide together.
[mod.L suicida, suicidium f. L sui of oneself]
sui generis
adj. of its own kind; unique. [L]
sui juris adj. Law of age; independent. [L]
suilline adj. of the pig family Suidae. [L suillus f. sus pig]
suint n. the natural grease in sheep's wool. [F f. suer sweat]
suit n. & v. --n. 1 a a set of outer clothes of matching material
for men, consisting usu. of a jacket, trousers, and sometimes a
waistcoat. b a similar set of clothes for women usu. having a
skirt instead of trousers. c (esp. in comb.) a set of clothes
for a special occasion, occupation, etc. (play-suit; swimsuit).
2 a any of the four sets (spades, hearts, diamonds, clubs) into
which a pack of cards is divided. b a player's holding in a
suit (his strong suit was clubs). c Bridge one of the suits as
proposed trumps in bidding, frequently as opposed to no trumps.
3 (in full suit at law) a lawsuit (criminal suit). 4 a a
petition esp. to a person in authority. b the process of
courting a woman (paid suit to her). 5 (usu. foll. by of) a set
of sails, armour, etc. --v. 1 tr. go well with (a person's
figure, features, character, etc.); become. 2 tr. (also absol.)
meet the demands or requirements of; satisfy; agree with (does
not suit all tastes; that date will suit). 3 tr. make fitting
or appropriate; accommodate; adapt (suited his style to his
audience). 4 tr. (as suited adj.) appropriate; well-fitted (not
suited to be an engineer). 5 intr. (usu. foll. by with) go well
with the appearance etc. of a person (red hair suits with her
complexion). Ьsuit the action to the word carry out a promise
or threat at once. suit oneself 1 do as one chooses. 2 find
something that satisfies one. [ME f. AF siute, OF si(e)ute f.
fem. past part. of Rmc sequere (unrecorded) follow: see SUE]
suitable adj. (usu. foll. by to, for) well fitted for the purpose;
appropriate. ЬЬsuitability n. suitableness n. suitably adv.
[SUIT + -ABLE, after agreeable]
suitcase n. a usu. oblong case for carrying clothes etc., having a
handle and a flat hinged lid. ЬЬsuitcaseful n. (pl. -fuls).
suite n. 1 a set of things belonging together, esp.: a a set of rooms
in a hotel etc. b a sofa, armchairs, etc., of the same design.
2 Mus. a a set of instrumental compositions, orig. in dance
style, to be played in succession. b a set of selected pieces
from an opera, musical, etc., arranged to be played as one
instrumental work. 3 a set of people in attendance; a retinue.
[F (as SUIT)]
suiting n. cloth used for making suits.
suitor n. 1 a man seeking to marry a specified woman; a wooer. 2 a
plaintiff or petitioner in a lawsuit. [ME f. AF seutor,
suitour, etc., f. L secutor -oris f. sequi secut- follow]
suk (also sukh) var. of SOUK.
sukiyaki n. a Japanese dish of sliced meat simmered with vegetables and
sauce. [Jap.]
sulcate adj. grooved, fluted, channelled. [L sulcatus, past part. of
sulcare furrow (as SULCUS)]
sulcus n. (pl. sulci) Anat. a groove or furrow, esp. on the surface
of the brain. [L]
sulfa US var. of SULPHA.
sulfanilamide
US var. of SULPHANILAMIDE.
sulfate etc.
US var. of SULPHATE etc.
sulfur etc.
US var. of SULPHUR etc.
sulk v. & n. --v.intr. indulge in a sulk, be sulky. --n. (also in
pl., prec. by the) a period of sullen esp. resentful silence
(having a sulk; got the sulks). ЬЬsulker n. [perh. back-form.
f. SULKY]
sulky adj. & n. --adj. (sulkier, sulkiest) 1 sullen, morose, or
silent, esp. from resentment or ill temper. 2 sluggish. --n.
(pl. -ies) a light two-wheeled horse-drawn vehicle for one,
esp. used in trotting-races. ЬЬsulkily adv. sulkiness n.
[perh. f. obs. sulke hard to dispose of]
sullage n. filth, refuse, sewage. [perh. f. AF suillage f. souiller
SOIL(2)]
sullen adj. & n. --adj. 1 morose, resentful, sulky, unforgiving,
unsociable. 2 a (of a thing) slow-moving. b dismal, melancholy
(a sullen sky). --n. (in pl., usu. prec. by the) archaic a
sullen frame of mind; depression. ЬЬsullenly adv. sullenness
n. [16th-c. alt. of ME solein f. AF f. sol SOLE(3)]
sully v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 disgrace or tarnish (a person's reputation
or character, a victory, etc.). 2 poet. dirty; soil. [perh. f.
F souiller (as SOIL(2))]
sulpha n. (US sulfa) any drug derived from sulphanilamide (often
attrib.: sulpha drug). [abbr.]
sulphamic acid
n. (US sulfamic) a strong acid used in weed-killer, an amide of
sulphuric acid. ЬЬsulphamate n. [SULPHUR + AMIDE]
sulphanilamide
n. (US sulfanilamide) a colourless sulphonamide drug with
anti-bacterial properties. [sulphanilic (SULPHUR, ANILINE) +
AMIDE]
sulphate n. (US sulfate) a salt or ester of sulphuric acid. [F sulfate
f. L sulphur]
sulphide n. (US sulfide) Chem. a binary compound of sulphur.
sulphite n. (US sulfite) Chem. a salt or ester of sulphurous acid. [F
sulfite alt. of sulfate SULPHATE]
sulphonamide
n. (US sulfonamide) a substance derived from an amide of a
sulphonic acid, able to prevent the multiplication of some
pathogenic bacteria. [SULPHONE + AMIDE]
sulphonate
n. & v. Chem. --n. a salt or ester of sulphonic acid. --v.tr.
convert into a sulphonate by reaction with sulphuric acid.
sulphone n. (US sulfone) an organic compound containing the SO[2] group
united directly to two carbon atoms. ЬЬsulphonic adj. [G
Sulfon (as SULPHUR)]
sulphur n. & v. (US sulfur) --n. 1 a a pale-yellow non-metallic
element having crystalline and amorphous forms, burning with a
blue flame and a suffocating smell, and used in making
gunpowder, matches, and sulphuric acid, in the vulcanizing of
rubber, and in the treatment of skin diseases. °Symb.: S. b
(attrib.) like or containing sulphur. 2 the material of which
hell-fire and lightning were believed to consist. 3 any yellow
butterfly of the family Pieridae. 4 a pale greenish yellow
colour. --v.tr. 1 treat with sulphur. 2 fumigate with
sulphur. Ьsulphur candle a candle burnt to produce sulphur
dioxide for fumigating. sulphur dioxide a colourless pungent
gas formed by burning sulphur in air and used as a food
preservative. sulphur spring a spring impregnated with sulphur
or its compounds. ЬЬsulphury adj. [ME f. AF sulf(e)re, OF
soufre f. L sulfur, sulp(h)ur]
sulphurate
v.tr. (US sulfurate) impregnate, fumigate, or treat with
sulphur, esp. in bleaching. ЬЬsulphuration n. sulphurator n.
sulphureous
adj. (US sulfureous) 1 of, like, or suggesting sulphur. 2
sulphur-coloured; yellow. [L sulphureus f. SULPHUR]
sulphuretted
adj. (US sulfureted) archaic containing sulphur in combination.
Ьsulphuretted hydrogen hydrogen sulphide. [sulphuret sulphide
f. mod.L sulphuretum]
sulphuric adj. (US sulfuric) Chem. containing sexivalent sulphur.
Ьsulphuric acid a dense oily colourless highly acid and
corrosive fluid much used in the chemical industry. °Chem.
formula: H[2]SO[4]. [F sulfurique (as SULPHUR)]
sulphurize
v.tr. (also -ise, US sulfurize) = SULPHURate. ЬЬsulphurization
n. [F sulfuriser (as SULPHUR)]
sulphurous
adj. (US sulfurous) 1 relating to or suggestive of sulphur,
esp. in colour. 2 Chem. containing quadrivalent sulphur.
Ьsulphurous acid an unstable weak acid used as a reducing and
bleaching acid. [L sulphurosus f. SULPHUR]
sultan n. 1 a a Muslim sovereign. b (the Sultan) hist. the sultan of
Turkey. 2 a variety of white domestic fowl from Turkey.
ЬЬsultanate n. [F sultan or med.L sultanus f. Arab. sultan
power, ruler f. saluta rule]
sultana n. 1 a a seedless raisin used in puddings, cakes, etc. b the
small pale yellow grape producing this. 2 the mother, wife,
concubine, or daughter of a sultan. [It., fem. of sultano =
SULTAN]
sultry adj. (sultrier, sultriest) 1 (of the atmosphere or the weather)
hot or oppressive; close. 2 (of a person, character, etc.)
passionate; sensual. ЬЬsultrily adv. sultriness n. [obs.
sulter SWELTER]
sum n. & v. --n. 1 the total amount resulting from the addition of
two or more items, facts, ideas, feelings, etc. (the sum of two
and three is five; the sum of their objections is this). 2 a
particular amount of money (paid a large sum for it). 3 a an
arithmetical problem (could not work out the sum). b (esp.
pl.) colloq. arithmetic work, esp. at an elementary level (was
good at sums). --v.tr. (summed, summing) find the sum of. Ьin
sum in brief. summing-up 1 a review of evidence and a direction
given by a judge to a jury. 2 a recapitulation of the main
points of an argument, case, etc. sum total = sense 1 of n.
sum up 1 (esp. of a judge) recapitulate or review the evidence
in a case etc. 2 form or express an idea of the character of (a
person, situation, etc.). 3 collect into or express as a total
or whole. [ME f. OF summe, somme f. L summa main part, fem. of
summus highest]
sumac n. (also sumach) 1 any shrub or tree of the genus Rhus, having
reddish cone-shaped fruits used as a spice in cooking. 2 the
dried and ground leaves of this used in tanning and dyeing. [ME
f. OF sumac or med.L sumac(h) f. Arab. summak]
Sumerian adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to the early and non-Semitic
element in the civilization of ancient Babylonia. --n. 1 a
member of the early non-Semitic people of ancient Babylonia. 2
the Sumerian language. [F sum‚rien f. Sumer in Babylonia]
summa n. (pl. summae) a summary of what is known of a subject. [ME
f. L: see SUM]
summa cum laude
adv. & adj. esp. US (of a degree, diploma, etc.) of the
highest standard; with the highest distinction. [L, = with
highest praise]
summarize v.tr. (also -ise) make or be a summary of; sum up. ЬЬsummarist
n. summarizable adj. summarization n. summarizer n.
summary n. & adj. --n. (pl. -ies) a brief account; an abridgement.
--adj. 1 dispensing with needless details or formalities; brief
(a summary account). 2 Law (of a trial etc.) without the
customary legal formalities (summary justice). Ьsummary
conviction a conviction made by a judge or magistrates without a
jury. summary jurisdiction the authority of a court to use
summary proceedings and arrive at a judgement. summary offence
an offence within the scope of a summary court. ЬЬsummarily
adv. summariness n. [ME f. L summarium f. L summa SUM]
summation n. 1 the finding of a total or sum; an addition. 2 a
summing-up. ЬЬsummational adj.
summer(1) n. & v. --n. 1 the warmest season of the year, in the N.
hemisphere from June to August and in the S. hemisphere from
December to February. 2 Astron. the period from the summer
solstice to the autumnal equinox. 3 the hot weather typical of
summer. 4 (often foll. by of) the mature stage of life; the
height of achievement, powers, etc. 5 (esp. in pl.) poet. a
year (esp. of a person's age) (a child of ten summers). 6
(attrib.) characteristic of or suitable for summer (summer
clothes). --v. 1 intr. (usu. foll. by at, in) pass the summer.
2 tr. (often foll. by at, in) pasture (cattle). Ьsummer-house a
light building in a garden etc. used for sitting in in fine
weather. summer lightning sheet lightning without thunder,
resulting from a distant storm. summer pudding Brit. a pudding
of soft summer fruit encased in bread or sponge. summer school
a course of lectures etc. held during the summer vacation, esp.
at a university. summer solstice see SOLSTICE. summer time
Brit. the period between March and October during which the
clocks are advanced an hour (cf. SUMMERTIME). summer-weight
(of clothes) suitable for use in summer, esp. because of their
light weight. ЬЬsummerless adj. summerly adv. summery adj.
[OE sumor]
summer(2) n. (in full summer-tree) a horizontal bearing beam, esp. one
supporting joists or rafters. [ME f. AF sumer, somer packhorse,
beam, OF somier f. LL sagmarius f. sagma f. Gk sagma
pack-saddle]
summersault
var. of SOMERSAULT.
summertime
n. the season or period of summer (cf. summer time).
summit n. 1 the highest point, esp. of a mountain; the apex. 2 the
highest degree of power, ambition, etc. 3 (in full summit
meeting, talks , etc.) a discussion, esp. on disarmament etc.,
between heads of government. ЬЬsummitless adj. [ME f. OF
somet, som(m)ete f. som top f. L summum neut. of summus]
summon v.tr. 1 call upon to appear, esp. as a defendant or witness in
a lawcourt. 2 (usu. foll. by to + infin.) call upon (summoned
her to assist). 3 call together for a meeting or some other
purpose (summoned the members to attend). Ьsummon up (often
foll. by to, for) gather (courage, spirits, resources, etc.)
(summoned up her strength for the task). ЬЬsummonable adj.
summoner n. [ME f. OF somondre f. L summonere (as SUB-, monere
warn)]
summons n. & v. --n. (pl. summonses) 1 an authoritative or urgent
call to attend on some occasion or do something. 2 a a call to
appear before a judge or magistrate. b the writ containing such
a summons. --v.tr. esp. Law serve with a summons. [ME f. OF
somonce, sumunse f. L summonita fem. past part. of summonere:
see SUMMON]
summum bonum
n. the highest good, esp. as the end or determining principle
in an ethical system. [L]
sumo n. (pl. -os) 1 a style of Japanese wrestling, in which a
participant is defeated by touching the ground with any part of
the body except the soles of the feet or by moving outside the
marked area. 2 a sumo wrestler. [Jap.]
sump n. 1 a pit, well, hole, etc. in which superfluous liquid
collects in mines, machines, etc. 2 a cesspool. [ME, = marsh
f. MDu., MLG sump, or (mining) G Sumpf, rel. to SWAMP]
sumpter n. archaic 1 a packhorse. 2 any pack-animal (sumpter-mule).
[ME f. OF som(m)etier f. LL f. Gk sagma -atos pack-saddle: cf.
SUMMER(2)]
sumptuary adj. 1 regulating expenditure. 2 (of a law or edict etc.)
limiting private expenditure in the interests of the State. [L
sumptuarius f. sumptus cost f. sumere sumpt- take]
sumptuous adj. rich, lavish, costly (a sumptuous setting). ЬЬsumptuosity
n. sumptuously adv. sumptuousness n. [ME f. OF somptueux f. L
sumptuosus (as SUMPTUARY)]
Sun. abbr. Sunday.
sun n. & v. --n. 1 a the star round which the earth orbits and
from which it receives light and warmth. b any similar star in
the universe with or without planets. 2 the light or warmth
received from the sun (pull down the blinds and keep out the
sun). 3 poet. a day or a year. 4 poet. a person or thing
regarded as a source of glory, radiance, etc. --v. (sunned,
sunning) 1 refl. bask in the sun. 2 tr. expose to the sun. 3
intr. sun oneself. Ьagainst the sun anticlockwise. beneath (or
under) the sun anywhere in the world. in the sun exposed to the
sun's rays. on which the sun never sets (of an empire etc.)
worldwide. sun and planet a system of gearing cog wheels.
sun-baked dried or hardened or baked from the heat of the sun.
sun-bath a period of exposing the body to the sun. sun bear a
small black bear, Helarctos malayanus, of SE Asia, with a
light-coloured mark on its chest. sun-blind Brit. a window
awning. sun-bonnet a bonnet of cotton etc. covering the neck
and shading the face, esp. for children. sun-bow a spectrum of
colours like a rainbow produced by the sun shining on spray etc.
sun-dance a dance of N. American Indians in honour of the sun.
sun-deck the upper deck of a steamer. sun-disc a winged disc,
emblematic of the sun-god. sun-dog = PARHELION. sun-dress a
dress without sleeves and with a low neck. sun-dried dried by
the sun, not by artificial heat. sun-glasses glasses tinted to
protect the eyes from sunlight or glare. sun-god the sun
worshipped as a deity. sun-hat a hat designed to protect the
head from the sun. sun-helmet a helmet of cork etc. formerly
worn by White people in the tropics. sun in splendour Heraldry
the sun with rays and a human face. one's sun is set the time
of one's prosperity is over. sun-kissed warmed or affected by
the sun. sun-lamp 1 a lamp giving ultraviolet rays for an
artificial suntan, therapy, etc. 2 Cinematog. a large lamp with
a parabolic reflector used in film-making. sun lounge a room
with large windows, designed to receive sunlight. sun parlor US
= sun lounge. sun-rays 1 sunbeams. 2 ultraviolet rays used
therapeutically. sun-roof a sliding roof on a car. sun-stone a
cat's eye gem, esp. feldspar with embedded flecks of haematite
etc. sun-suit a play-suit, esp. for children, suitable for
sunbathing. sun-up esp. US sunrise. sun visor a fixed or
movable shield at the top of a vehicle windscreen to shield the
eyes from the sun. take (or shoot) the sun Naut. ascertain the
altitude of the sun with a sextant in order to fix the latitude.
with the sun clockwise. ЬЬsunless adj. sunlessness n. sunlike
adj. sunproof adj. sunward adj. & adv. sunwards adv. [OE
sunne, sunna]
sunbathe v.intr. bask in the sun, esp. to tan the body. ЬЬsunbather n.
sunbeam n. a ray of sunlight.
sunbed n. 1 a lightweight, usu. folding, chair with a seat long enough
to support the legs, used for sunbathing. 2 a bed for lying on
under a sun-lamp.
sunbelt n. a strip of territory receiving a high amount of sunshine,
esp. the region in the southern US stretching from California
to Florida.
sunbird n. any small bright-plumaged Old World bird of the family
Nectariniidae, resembling a humming-bird.
sunblock n. a cream or lotion for protecting the skin from the sun.
sunburn n. & v. --n. tanning and inflammation of the skin caused by
over-exposure to the sun. --v.intr. 1 suffer from sunburn. 2
(as sunburnt or sunburned adj.) suffering from sunburn; brown or
tanned.
sunburst n. 1 something resembling the sun and its rays, esp.: a an
ornament, brooch, etc. b a firework. 2 the sun shining
suddenly from behind clouds.
sundae n. a dish of ice-cream with fruit, nuts, syrup, etc. [perh. f.
SUNDAY]
Sunday n. & adv. --n. 1 the first day of the week, a Christian
holiday and day of worship. 2 a newspaper published on a
Sunday. --adv. colloq. 1 on Sunday. 2 (Sundays) on Sunday;
each Sunday. ЬSunday best joc. a person's best clothes, kept
for Sunday use. Sunday letter = dominical letter. Sunday
painter an amateur painter, esp. one with little training.
Sunday school a school for the religious instruction of children
on Sundays. [OE sunnand‘g, transl. of L dies solis, Gk hemera
heliou day of the sun]
sunder v.tr. & intr. archaic or literary Ьin sunder apart. [OE
sundrian, f. asundrian etc.: in sunder f. ME f. o(n)sunder
ASUNDER]
sundew n. any small insect-consuming bog-plant of the family
Droseraceae, esp. of the genus Drosera with hairs secreting
drops of moisture.
sundial n. an instrument showing the time by the shadow of a pointer
cast by the sun on to a graduated disc.
sundown n. sunset.
sundowner n. 1 Austral. a tramp who arrives at a sheep station etc. in
the evening for food and shelter. 2 Brit. colloq. an alcoholic
drink taken at sunset.
sundry adj. & n. --adj. various; several (sundry items). --n. (pl.
-ies) 1 (in pl.) items or oddments not mentioned individually.
2 Austral. Cricket = EXTRA n. 5. [OE syndrig separate, rel.
to SUNDER]
sunfast adj. US (of dye) not subject to fading by sunlight.
sunfish n. any of various almost spherical fish, esp. a large ocean
fish, Mola mola.
sunflower n. any very tall plant of the genus Helianthus, esp. H. annus
with very large showy golden-rayed flowers, grown also for its
seeds which yield an edible oil.
sung past part. of SING.
sunk past and past part. of SINK.
sunken adj. 1 that has been sunk. 2 beneath the surface; submerged.
3 (of the eyes, cheeks, etc.) hollow, depressed. Ьsunken garden
a garden placed below the general level of its surroundings.
[past part. of SINK]
sunlight n. light from the sun.
sunlit adj. illuminated by sunlight.
sunn n. (in full sunn hemp) an E. Indian hemplike fibre. [Urdu &
Hindi san f. Skr. san hempen]
Sunna n. a traditional portion of Muslim law based on Muhammad's
words or acts, accepted as authoritative by many Muslims but
rejected by the Shiites. [Arab., = form, way, course, rule]
Sunni n. & adj. --n. (pl. same or Sunnis) 1 one of the two main
branches of Islam, regarding the Sunna as equal in authority to
the Koran (cf. SHIAH). 2 an adherent of this branch of Islam.
--adj. (also Sunnite) of or relating to Sunni.
sunny adj. (sunnier, sunniest) 1 a bright with sunlight. b exposed
to or warmed by the sun. 2 cheery and bright in temperament.
Ьthe sunny side 1 the side of a house, street, etc. that gets
most sun. 2 the more cheerful aspect of circumstances etc.
(always looks on the sunny side). ЬЬsunnily adv. sunniness n.
sunrise n. 1 the sun's rising at dawn. 2 the coloured sky associated
with this. 3 the time at which sunrise occurs. Ьsunrise
industry any newly established industry, esp. in electronics and
telecommunications, regarded as signalling prosperity.
sunset n. 1 the sun's setting in the evening. 2 the coloured sky
associated with this. 3 the time at which sunset occurs. 4 the
declining period of life.
sunshade n. 1 a parasol. 2 an awning.
sunshine n. 1 a the light of the sun. b an area lit by the sun. 2 fine
weather. 3 cheerfulness; joy (brought sunshine into her life).
4 Brit. colloq. a form of address. Ьsunshine roof = sun-roof.
ЬЬsunshiny adj.
sunspot n. one of the dark patches, changing in shape and size and
lasting for varying periods, observed on the sun's surface.
sunstar n. any starfish of the genus Solaster, with many rays.
sunstroke n. acute prostration or collapse from the excessive heat of the
sun.
suntan n. & v. --n. the brownish colouring of skin caused by exposure
to the sun. --v.intr. (-tanned, -tanning) colour the skin with
a suntan.
suntrap n. a place sheltered from the wind and suitable for catching
the sunshine.
sup(1) v. & n. --v.tr. (supped, supping) 1 take (soup, tea, etc.) by
sips or spoonfuls. 2 esp. N.Engl. colloq. drink (alcohol).
--n. a sip of liquid. [OE supan]
sup(2) v.intr. (usu. foll. by off, on) archaic take supper. [OF
super, soper]
sup- prefix assim. form of SUB- before p.
super adj. & n. --adj. 1 (also super-duper) colloq. (also as int.)
exceptional; splendid. 2 Commerce superfine. 3 Commerce (of a
measure) superficial, in square (not lineal or solid) measure
(120 super ft.; 120 ft. super). --n. colloq. 1 Theatr. a
supernumerary actor. 2 a superintendent. 3 superphosphate. 4
an extra, unwanted, or unimportant person; a supernumerary. 5
Commerce superfine cloth or manufacture. [abbr.]
super- comb. form forming nouns, adjectives, and verbs, meaning: 1
above, beyond, or over in place or time or conceptually
(superstructure; supernormal; superimpose). 2 to a great or
extreme degree (superabundant; superhuman). 3 extra good or
large of its kind (supertanker). 4 of a higher kind, esp. in
names of classificatory divisions (superclass). [from or after
L super- f. super above, beyond]
superable adj. able to be overcome. [L superabilis f. superare
overcome]
superabound
v.intr. be very or too abundant. [LL superabundare (as SUPER-,
ABOUND)]
superabundant
adj. abounding beyond what is normal or right.
ЬЬsuperabundance n. superabundantly adv. [ME f. LL
superabundare: see SUPERABOUND]
superadd v.tr. add over and above. ЬЬsuperaddition n. [ME f. L
superaddere (as SUPER-, ADD)]
superaltar
n. Eccl. a portable slab of stone consecrated for use on an
unconsecrated altar etc. [ME f. med.L superaltare (as SUPER-,
ALTAR)]
superannuate
v.tr. 1 retire (a person) with a pension. 2 dismiss or discard
as too old for use, work, etc. 3 (as superannuated adj.) too
old for work or use; obsolete. ЬЬsuperannuable adj.
[back-form. f. superannuated f. med.L superannuatus f. L SUPER-
+ annus year]
superannuation
n. 1 a pension paid to a retired person. 2 a regular payment
made towards this by an employed person. 3 the process or an
instance of superannuating.
superaqueous
adj. above water.
superb adj. 1 of the most impressive, splendid, grand, or majestic
kind (superb courage; a superb specimen). 2 colloq. excellent;
fine. ЬЬsuperbly adv. superbness n. [F superbe or L superbus
proud]
supercalender
v.tr. give a highly glazed finish to (paper) by extra
calendering.
supercargo
n. (pl. -oes) an officer in a merchant ship managing sales
etc. of cargo. [earlier supracargo f. Sp. sobrecargo f. sobre
over + cargo CARGO]
supercelestial
adj. 1 above the heavens. 2 more than heavenly. [LL
supercaelestis (as SUPER-, CELESTIAL)]
supercharge
v.tr. 1 (usu. foll. by with) charge (the atmosphere etc.) with
energy, emotion, etc. 2 use a supercharger on (an
internal-combustion engine).
supercharger
n. a device supplying air or fuel to an internal-combustion
engine at above normal pressure to increase efficiency.
superciliary
adj. Anat. of or concerning the eyebrow; over the eye. [L
supercilium eyebrow (as SUPER-, cilium eyelid)]
supercilious
adj. assuming an air of contemptuous indifference or
superiority. ЬЬsuperciliously adv. superciliousness n. [L
superciliosus (as SUPERCILIARY)]
superclass
n. a taxonomic category between class and phylum.
supercolumnar
adj. Archit. having one order or set of columns above another.
ЬЬsupercolumniation n.
supercomputer
n. a powerful computer capable of dealing with complex
problems. ЬЬsupercomputing n.
superconductivity
n. Physics the property of zero electrical resistance in some
substances at very low absolute temperatures. ЬЬsuperconducting
adj. superconductive adj.
superconductor
n. Physics a substance having superconductivity.
superconscious
adj. transcending human consciousness. ЬЬsuperconsciously adv.
superconsciousness n.
supercool v. & adj. --v. Chem. 1 tr. cool (a liquid) below its
freezing-point without solidification or crystallization. 2
intr. (of a liquid) be cooled in this way. --adj. sl. very
cool, relaxed, fine, etc.
supercritical
adj. Physics of more than critical mass etc.
super-duper
var. of SUPER adj. 1.
superego n. (pl. -os) Psychol. the part of the mind that acts as a
conscience and responds to social rules.
superelevation
n. the amount by which the outer edge of a curve on a road or
railway is above the inner edge.
supereminent
adj. supremely eminent, exalted, or remarkable.
ЬЬsupereminence n. supereminently adv. [L supereminere rise
above (as SUPER-, EMINENT)]
supererogation
n. the performance of more than duty requires. Ьworks of
supererogation RC Ch. actions believed to form a reserve fund
of merit that can be drawn on by prayer in favour of sinners.
ЬЬsupererogatory adj. [LL supererogatio f. supererogare pay in
addition (as SUPER-, erogare pay out)]
superexcellent
adj. very or supremely excellent. ЬЬsuperexcellence n.
superexcellently adv. [LL superexcellens (as SUPER-,
EXCELLENT)]
superfamily
n. (pl. -ies) a taxonomic category between family and order.
superfatted
adj. (of soap) containing extra fat.
superfecundation
n. = SUPERFETATION 1.
superfetation
n. 1 Med. & Zool. a second conception during pregnancy giving
rise to embryos of different ages in the uterus. 2 Bot. the
fertilization of the same ovule by different kinds of pollen. 3
the accretion of one thing on another. [F superf‚tation or f.
mod.L superfetatio f. L superfetare (as SUPER-, fetus FOETUS)]
superficial
adj. 1 of or on the surface; lacking depth (a superficial
knowledge; superficial wounds). 2 swift or cursory (a
superficial examination). 3 apparent but not real (a
superficial resemblance). 4 (esp. of a person) having no depth
of character or knowlege; trivial; shallow. 5 Commerce (of a
measure) square (cf. SUPER adj. 3). ЬЬsuperficiality n. (pl.
-ies). superficially adv. superficialness n. [LL
superficialis f. L (as SUPERFICIES)]
superficies
n. (pl. same) Geom. a surface. [L (as SUPER-, facies face)]
superfine adj. 1 Commerce of extra quality. 2 pretending great
refinement. [med.L superfinus (as SUPER-, FINE(1))]
superfluity
n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state of being superfluous. 2 a
superfluous amount or thing. [ME f. OF superfluit‚ f. LL
superfluitas -tatis f. L superfluus: see SUPERFLUOUS]
superfluous
adj. more than enough, redundant, needless. ЬЬsuperfluously
adv. superfluousness n. [ME f. L superfluus (as SUPER-, fluere
to flow)]
supergiant
n. a star of very great luminosity and size.
superglue n. any of various adhesives with an exceptional bonding
capability.
supergrass
n. colloq. a police informer who implicates a large number of
people.
superheat v.tr. Physics 1 heat (a liquid) above its boiling-point without
vaporization. 2 heat (a vapour) above its boiling-point
(superheated steam). ЬЬsuperheater n.
superhet n. colloq. = SUPERHETERODYNE.
superheterodyne
adj. & n. --adj. denoting or characteristic of a system of
radio reception in which a local variable oscillator is tuned to
beat at a constant ultrasonic frequency with carrier-wave
frequencies, making it unnecessary to vary the amplifier tuning
and securing greater selectivity. --n. a superheterodyne
receiver. [SUPERSONIC + HETERODYNE]
superhighway
n. US a broad main road for fast traffic.
superhuman
adj. 1 beyond normal human capability. 2 higher than man.
ЬЬsuperhumanly adv. [LL superhumanus (as SUPER-, HUMAN)]
superhumeral
n. Eccl. a vestment worn over the shoulders, e.g. an amice,
ephod, or pallium. [LL superhumerale (as SUPER-, HUMERAL)]
superimpose
v.tr. (usu. foll. by on) lay (a thing) on something else.
ЬЬsuperimposition n.
superincumbent
adj. lying on something else.
superinduce
v.tr. introduce or induce in addition. [L superinducere cover
over, bring from outside (as SUPER-, INDUCE)]
superintend
v.tr. & intr. be responsible for the management or arrangement
of (an activity etc.); supervise and inspect. ЬЬsuperintendence
n. superintendency n. [eccl.L superintendere (as SUPER-,
INTEND), transl. Gk episkopo]
superintendent
n. & adj. --n. 1 a a person who superintends. b a director of
an institution etc. 2 a Brit. a police officer above the rank
of inspector. b US the head of a police department. 3 US the
caretaker of a building. --adj. superintending. [eccl.L
superintendent- part. stem of superintendere: see SUPERINTEND]
superior adj. & n. --adj. 1 in a higher position; of higher rank (a
superior officer; a superior court). 2 a above the average in
quality etc. (made of superior leather). b having or showing a
high opinion of oneself; supercilious (had a superior air). 3
(often foll. by to) a better or greater in some respect
(superior to its rivals in speed). b above yielding, making
concessions, paying attention, etc. (is superior to bribery;
superior to temptation). 4 further above or out; higher, esp.:
a Astron. (of a planet) having an orbit further from the sun
than the earth's. b Zool. (of an insect's wings) folding over
others. c Printing (of figures or letters) placed above the
line. d Bot. (of the calyx) above the ovary. e Bot. (of the
ovary) above the calyx. --n. 1 a person superior to another in
rank, character, etc. (is deferential to his superiors; is his
superior in courage). 2 (fem. superioress) Eccl. the head of a
monastery or other religious institution (Mother Superior;
Father Superior). 3 Printing a superior letter or figure.
Ьsuperior numbers esp. Mil. more men etc. or their strength
(overcome by superior numbers). superior persons esp. iron.
the better educated or ‚lite; prigs. ЬЬsuperiorly adv. [ME f.
OF superiour f. L superior -oris, compar. of superus that is
above f. super above]
superiority
n. the state of being superior. Ьsuperiority complex Psychol.
an undue conviction of one's own superiority to others.
superlative
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of the highest quality or degree
(superlative wisdom). 2 Gram. (of an adjective or adverb)
expressing the highest or a very high degree of a quality (e.g.
bravest, most fiercely) (cf. POSITIVE, COMPARATIVE). --n. 1
Gram. a the superlative expression or form of an adjective or
adverb. b a word in the superlative. 2 something embodying
excellence; the highest form of a thing. ЬЬsuperlatively adv.
superlativeness n. [ME f. OF superlatif -ive f. LL superlativus
f. L superlatus (as SUPER-, latus past part. of ferre take)]
superlunary
adj. 1 situated beyond the moon. 2 belonging to a higher
world, celestial. [med.L superlunaris (as SUPER-, LUNAR)]
superman n. (pl. -men) 1 esp. Philos. the ideal superior man of the
future. 2 colloq. a man of exceptional strength or ability.
[SUPER- + MAN, formed by G. B. Shaw after Nietzsche's G
љbermensch]
supermarket
n. a large self-service store selling foods, household goods,
etc.
supermundane
adj. superior to earthly things.
supernal adj. esp. poet. 1 heavenly; divine. 2 of or concerning the
sky. 3 lofty. ЬЬsupernally adv. [ME f. OF supernal or med.L
supernalis f. L supernus f. super above]
supernatant
adj. & n. esp. Chem. --adj. floating on the surface of a
liquid. --n. a supernatant substance. [SUPER- + natant
swimming (as NATATION)]
supernatural
adj. & n. --adj. attributed to or thought to reveal some force
above the laws of nature; magical; mystical. --n. (prec. by
the) supernatural, occult, or magical forces, effects, etc.
ЬЬsupernaturalism n. supernaturalist n. supernaturalize v.tr.
(also -ise). supernaturally adv. supernaturalness n.
supernormal
adj. beyond what is normal or natural. ЬЬsupernormality n.
supernova n. (pl. -novae or -novas) Astron. a star that suddenly
increases very greatly in brightness because of an explosion
ejecting most of its mass.
supernumerary
adj. & n. --adj. 1 in excess of the normal number; extra. 2
(of a person) engaged for extra work. 3 (of an actor) appearing
on stage but not speaking. --n. (pl. -ies) 1 an extra or
unwanted person or thing. 2 a supernumerary actor. 3 a person
engaged for extra work. [LL supernumerarius (soldier) added to
a legion already complete, f. L super numerum beyond the number]
superorder
n. Biol. a taxonomic category between order and class.
ЬЬsuperordinal adj.
superordinate
adj. (usu. foll. by to) of superior importance or rank.
[SUPER-, after subordinate]
superphosphate
n. a fertilizer made by treating phosphate rock with sulphuric
or phosphoric acid.
superphysical
adj. 1 unexplainable by physical causes; supernatural. 2
beyond what is physical.
superpose v.tr. (usu. foll. by on) esp. Geom. place (a thing or a
geometric figure) on or above something else, esp. so as to
coincide. ЬЬsuperposition n. [F superposer (as SUPER-,
POSE(1))]
superpower
n. a State of supreme power and influence, esp. the US and the
USSR.
supersaturate
v.tr. add to (esp. a solution) beyond saturation point.
ЬЬsupersaturation n.
superscribe
v.tr. 1 write (an inscription) at the top of or on the outside
of a document etc. 2 write an inscription over or on (a thing).
ЬЬsuperscription n. [L superscribere (as SUPER-, scribere
script- write)]
superscript
adj. & n. --adj. written or printed above the line, esp. Math.
(of a symbol) written above and to the right of another. --n. a
superscript number or symbol. [L superscriptus past part. of
superscribere: see SUPERSCRIBE]
supersede v.tr. 1 a adopt or appoint another person or thing in place of.
b set aside; cease to employ. 2 (of a person or thing) take the
place of. ЬЬsupersedence n. supersedure n. supersession n.
[OF superseder f. L supersedere be superior to (as SUPER-,
sedere sess- sit)]
supersonic
adj. designating or having a speed greater than that of sound.
ЬЬsupersonically adv.
supersonics
n.pl. (treated as sing.) = ULTRASONICS.
superstar n. an extremely famous or renowned actor, film star, musician,
etc. ЬЬsuperstardom n.
superstition
n. 1 credulity regarding the supernatural. 2 an irrational
fear of the unknown or mysterious. 3 misdirected reverence. 4
a practice, opinion, or religion based on these tendencies. 5 a
widely held but unjustified idea of the effects or nature of a
thing. ЬЬsuperstitious adj. superstitiously adv.
superstitiousness n. [ME f. OF superstition or L superstitio
(as SUPER-, stare stat- stand)]
superstore
n. a large supermarket selling a wide range of goods.
superstratum
n. (pl. -strata) an overlying stratum.
superstructure
n. 1 the part of a building above its foundations. 2 a
structure built on top of something else. 3 a concept or idea
based on others. ЬЬsuperstructural adj.
supersubtle
adj. extremely or excessively subtle. ЬЬsupersubtlety n.
supertanker
n. a very large tanker ship.
supertax n. a tax on incomes above a certain level, esp. a surtax.
superterrestrial
adj. 1 in or belonging to a region above the earth. 2
celestial.
supertonic
n. Mus. the note above the tonic, the second note of the
diatonic scale of any key.
supervene v.intr. occur as an interruption in or a change from some
state. ЬЬsupervenient adj. supervention n. [L supervenire
supervent- (as SUPER-, venire come)]
supervise v.tr. 1 superintend, oversee the execution of (a task etc.). 2
oversee the actions or work of (a person). ЬЬsupervision n.
supervisor n. supervisory adj. [med.L supervidere supervis-
(as SUPER-, videre see)]
superwoman
n. (pl. -women) colloq. a woman of exceptional strength or
ability.
supinate v.tr. put (a hand or foreleg etc.) into a supine position (cf.
PRONATE). ЬЬsupination n. [back-form. f. supination f. L
supinatio f. supinare f. supinus: see SUPINE]
supinator n. Anat. a muscle in the forearm effecting supination.
supine adj. & n. --adj. 1 lying face upwards (cf. PRONE). 2 having
the front or ventral part upwards; (of the hand) with the palm
upwards. 3 inert, indolent; morally or mentally inactive. --n.
a Latin verbal noun used only in the accusative and ablative
cases, esp. to denote purpose (e.g. mirabile dictu wonderful to
relate). ЬЬsupinely adv. supineness n. [L supinus, rel. to
super: (n.) f. LL supinum neut. (reason unkn.)]
supper n. a light evening meal. Ьsing for one's supper do something
in return for a benefit. ЬЬsupperless adj. [ME f. OF soper,
super]
supplant v.tr. dispossess and take the place of, esp. by underhand
means. ЬЬsupplanter n. [ME f. OF supplanter or L supplantare
trip up (as SUB-, planta sole)]
supple adj. & v. --adj. (suppler, supplest) 1 flexible, pliant;
easily bent. 2 compliant; avoiding overt resistance; artfully
or servilely submissive. --v.tr. & intr. make or become supple.
ЬЬsuppleness n. [ME f. OF souple ult. f. L supplex supplicis
submissive]
supplejack
n. any of various strong twining tropical shrubs, esp.
Berchemia scandens. [SUPPLE + JACK(1)]
supplely var. of SUPPLY(2).
supplement
n. & v. --n. 1 a thing or part added to remedy deficiencies
(dietary supplement). 2 a part added to a book etc. to provide
further information. 3 a separate section, esp. a colour
magazine, added to a newspaper or periodical. 4 Geom. the
amount by which an angle is less than 180ш (cf. COMPLEMENT).
--v.tr. provide a supplement for. ЬЬsupplemental adj.
supplementally adv. supplementation n. [ME f. L supplementum
(as SUB-, plere fill)]
supplementary
adj. forming or serving as a supplement; additional.
Ьsupplementary benefit (in the UK) a weekly allowance paid by
the State to those not in full-time employment and with an
income below a certain level (cf. family credit).
ЬЬsupplementarily adv.
suppletion
n. the act or an instance of supplementing, esp. Linguistics
the occurrence of unrelated forms to supply gaps in conjugation
(e.g. went as the past of go). ЬЬsuppletive adj. [ME f. OF f.
med.L suppletio -onis (as SUPPLY(1))]
suppliant adj. & n. --adj. 1 supplicating. 2 expressing supplication.
--n. a supplicating person. ЬЬsuppliantly adv. [ME f. F
supplier beseech f. L (as SUPPLICATE)]
supplicate
v. 1 tr. petition humbly to (a person) or for (a thing). 2
intr. (foll. by to, for) make a petition. ЬЬsupplicant adj. &
n. supplication n. supplicatory adj. [ME f. L supplicare (as
SUB-, plicare bend)]
supply(1) v. & n. --v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 provide or furnish (a thing
needed). 2 (often foll. by with) provide (a person etc. with a
thing needed). 3 meet or make up for (a deficiency or need
etc.). 4 fill (a vacancy, place, etc.) as a substitute. --n.
(pl. -ies) 1 the act or an instance of providing what is
needed. 2 a stock, store, amount, etc., of something provided
or obtainable (a large supply of water; the gas-supply). 3 (in
pl.) a the collected provisions and equipment for an army,
expedition, etc. b a grant of money by Parliament for the costs
of government. c a money allowance to a person. 4 (often
attrib.) a person, esp. a schoolteacher or clergyman, acting as
a temporary substitute for another. 5 (attrib.) providing
supplies or a supply (supply officer). Ьin short supply
available in limited quantity. on supply (of a schoolteacher
etc.) acting as a supply. supply and demand Econ. quantities
available and required as factors regulating the price of
commodities. supply-side Econ. denoting a policy of low
taxation and other incentives to produce goods and invest.
ЬЬsupplier n. [ME f. OF so(u)pleer etc. f. L supplere (as SUB-,
plere fill)]
supply(2) adv. (also supplely) in a supple manner .
support v. & n. --v.tr. 1 carry all or part of the weight of. 2 keep
from falling or sinking or failing. 3 provide with a home and
the necessities of life (has a family to support). 4 enable to
last out; give strength to; encourage. 5 bear out; tend to
substantiate or corroborate (a statement, charge, theory, etc.).
6 give help or countenance to, back up; second, further. 7
speak in favour of (a resolution etc.). 8 be actively
interested in (a particular team or sport). 9 take a part that
is secondary to (a principal actor etc.). 10 assist (a lecturer
etc.) by one's presence. 11 endure, tolerate (can no longer
support the noise). 12 maintain or represent (a part or
character) adequately. 13 subscribe to the funds of (an
institution). --n. 1 the act or an instance of supporting; the
process of being supported. 2 a person or thing that supports.
Ьin support of in order to support. supporting film (or picture
etc.) a less important film in a cinema programme. support
price a minimum price guaranteed to a farmer for agricultural
produce and maintained by subsidy etc. ЬЬsupportable adj.
supportability n. supportably adv. supportingly adv.
supportless adj. [ME f. OF supporter f. L supportare (as SUB-,
portare carry)]
supporter n. 1 a person or thing that supports, esp. a person supporting
a team or sport. 2 Heraldry the representation of an animal
etc., usu. one of a pair, holding up or standing beside an
escutcheon.
supportive
adj. providing support or encouragement. ЬЬsupportively adv.
supportiveness n.
suppose v.tr. (often foll. by that + clause) 1 assume, esp. in default
of knowledge; be inclined to think (I suppose they will return;
what do you suppose he meant?). 2 take as a possibility or
hypothesis (let us suppose you are right). 3 (in imper.) as a
formula of proposal (suppose we go to the party). 4 (of a
theory or result etc.) require as a condition (design in
creation supposes a creator). 5 (in imper. or pres. part.
forming a question) in the circumstances that; if (suppose he
won't let you; supposing we stay). 6 (as supposed adj.)
generally accepted as being so; believed (his supposed brother;
generally supposed to be wealthy). 7 (in passive; foll. by to +
infin.) a be expected or required (was supposed to write to
you). b (with neg.) not have to; not be allowed to (you are not
supposed to go in there). ЬI suppose so an expression of
hesitant agreement. ЬЬsupposable adj. [ME f. OF supposer (as
SUB-, POSE(1))]
supposedly
adv. as is generally supposed.
supposition
n. 1 a fact or idea etc. supposed. 2 the act or an instance of
supposing. ЬЬsuppositional adj.
suppositious
adj. hypothetical, assumed. ЬЬsuppositiously adv.
suppositiousness n. [partly f. SUPPOSITITIOUS, partly f.
SUPPOSITION + -OUS]
supposititious
adj. spurious; substituted for the real. ЬЬsupposititiously
adv. supposititiousness n. [L supposititius, -icius f.
supponere supposit- substitute (as SUB- ponere place)]
suppository
n. (pl. -ies) a medical preparation in the form of a cone,
cylinder, etc., to be inserted into the rectum or vagina to
melt. [ME f. med.L suppositorium, neut. of LL suppositorius
placed underneath (as SUPPOSITITIOUS)]
suppress v.tr. 1 end the activity or existence of, esp. forcibly. 2
prevent (information, feelings, a reaction, etc.) from being
seen, heard, or known (tried to suppress the report; suppressed
a yawn). 3 a partly or wholly eliminate (electrical
interference etc.). b equip (a device) to reduce such
interference due to it. 4 Psychol. keep out of one's
consciousness. ЬЬsuppressible adj. suppression n. suppressive
adj. suppressor n. [ME f. L supprimere suppress- (as SUB-,
premere press)]
suppurate v.intr. 1 form pus. 2 fester. ЬЬsuppuration n. suppurative
adj. [L suppurare (as SUB-, purare as PUS)]
supra adv. above or earlier on (in a book etc.). [L, = above]
supra- prefix 1 above. 2 beyond, transcending (supranational). [from
or after L supra- f. supra above, beyond, before in time]
supramaxillary
adj. of or relating to the upper jaw.
supramundane
adj. above or superior to the world.
supranational
adj. transcending national limits. ЬЬsupranationalism n.
supranationality n.
supraorbital
adj. situated above the orbit of the eye.
suprarenal
adj. situated above the kidneys.
supremacist
n. & adj. --n. an advocate of the supremacy of a particular
group, esp. determined by race or sex. --adj. relating to or
advocating such supremacy. ЬЬsupremacism n.
supremacy n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state of being supreme. 2 the highest
authority. ЬAct of Supremacy an act securing ecclesiastical
supremacy to the Crown and excluding the authority of the Pope.
supreme adj. & n. --adj. 1 highest in authority or rank. 2 greatest;
most important. 3 (of a penalty or sacrifice etc.) involving
death. --n. 1 a rich cream sauce. 2 a dish served in this.
Ьthe Supreme Being a name for God. Supreme Court the highest
judicial court in a State etc. supreme pontiff see PONTIFF.
Supreme Soviet the governing council of the USSR or one of its
constituent republics. ЬЬsupremely adv. supremeness n. [L
supremus, superl. of superus that is above f. super above]
supr€me n. = SUPREME n. [F]
supremo n. (pl. -os) 1 a supreme leader or ruler. 2 a person in
overall charge. [Sp., = SUPREME]
sura n. (also surah) a chapter or section of the Koran. [Arab.
sura]
surah n. a soft twilled silk for scarves etc. [F pronunc. of Surat
in India, where it was orig. made]
sural adj. of or relating to the calf of the leg (sural artery).
[mod.L suralis f. L sura calf]
surcease n. & v. literary --n. a cessation. --v.intr. & tr. cease. [ME
f. OF sursis, -ise (cf. AF sursise omission), past part. of OF
surseoir refrain, delay f. L (as SUPERSEDE), with assim. to
CEASE]
surcharge n. & v. --n. 1 an additional charge or payment. 2 a charge
made by assessors as a penalty for false returns of taxable
property. 3 a mark printed on a postage stamp changing its
value. 4 an additional or excessive load. 5 Brit. an amount in
an official account not passed by the auditor and having to be
refunded by the person responsible. 6 the showing of an
omission in an account for which credit should have been given.
--v.tr. 1 exact a surcharge from. 2 exact (a sum) as a
surcharge. 3 mark (a postage stamp) with a surcharge. 4
overload. 5 fill or saturate to excess. [ME f. OF surcharger
(as SUR-(1), CHARGE)]
surcingle n. a band round a horse's body usu. to keep a pack etc. in
place. [ME f. OF surcengle (as SUR-(1), cengle girth f. L
cingula f. cingere gird)]
surcoat n. 1 hist. a loose robe worn over armour. 2 a similar
sleeveless garment worn as part of the insignia of an order of
knighthood. 3 hist. an outer coat of rich material. [ME f. OF
surcot (as SUR-(1), cot coat)]
surculose adj. Bot. producing suckers. [L surculosus f. surculus twig]
surd adj. & n. --adj. 1 Math. (of a number) irrational. 2 Phonet.
(of a sound) uttered with the breath and not the voice (e.g. f,
k, p, s, t). --n. 1 Math. a surd number, esp. the root of an
integer. 2 Phonet. a surd sound. [L surdus deaf, mute: sense 1
by mistransl. into L of Gk alogos irrational, speechless,
through Arab. jadr asamm deaf root]
sure adj. & adv. --adj. 1 having or seeming to have adequate reason
for a belief or assertion. 2 (often foll. by of, or that +
clause) convinced. 3 (foll. by of) having a certain prospect or
confident anticipation or satisfactory knowledge of. 4 reliable
or unfailing (there is one sure way to find out). 5 (foll. by
to + infin.) certain. 6 undoubtedly true or truthful. --adv.
colloq. certainly. Ьas sure as eggs is eggs see EGG(1). as
sure as fate quite certain. be sure (in imper. or infin.; foll.
by that + clause or to + infin.) take care to; not fail to (be
sure to turn the lights out). for sure colloq. without doubt.
make sure 1 make or become certain; ensure. 2 (foll. by of)
establish the truth or ensure the existence or happening of.
sure enough colloq. 1 in fact; certainly. 2 with near
certainty (they will come sure enough). sure-fire colloq.
certain to succeed. sure-footed never stumbling or making a
mistake. sure-footedly in a sure-footed way. sure-footedness
being sure-footed. sure thing int. esp. US colloq. certainly.
to be sure 1 it is undeniable or admitted. 2 it must be
admitted. ЬЬsureness n. [ME f. OF sur sure (earlier s‰ur) f. L
securus SECURE]
surely adv. 1 with certainty (the time approaches slowly but surely).
2 as an appeal to likelihood or reason (surely that can't be
right). 3 with safety; securely (the goat plants its feet
surely).
surety n. (pl. -ies) 1 a person who takes responsibility for
another's performance of an undertaking, e.g. to appear in
court, or payment of a debt. 2 archaic a certainty. Ьof (or
for) a surety archaic certainly. stand surety become a surety,
go bail. ЬЬsuretyship n. [ME f. OF surt‚, s‰urt‚ f. L
securitas -tatis SECURITY]
surf n. & v. --n. 1 the swell of the sea breaking on the shore or
reefs. 2 the foam produced by this. --v.intr. go surf-riding.
Ьsurf-casting fishing by casting a line into the sea from the
shore. surf-riding the sport of being carried over the surf to
the shore on a surfboard. ЬЬsurfer n. surfy adj. [app. f.
obs. suff, perh. assim. to surge: orig. applied to the Indian
coast]
surface n. & v. --n. 1 a the outside of a material body. b the area
of this. 2 any of the limits terminating a solid. 3 the upper
boundary of a liquid or of the ground etc. 4 the outward aspect
of anything; what is apparent on a casual view or consideration
(presents a large surface to view; all is quiet on the surface).
5 Geom. a set of points that has length and breadth but no
thickness. 6 (attrib.) a of or on the surface (surface area).
b superficial (surface politeness). --v. 1 tr. give the
required surface to (a road, paper, etc.). 2 intr. & tr. rise
or bring to the surface. 3 intr. become visible or known. 4
intr. colloq. become conscious; wake up. Ьcome to the surface
become perceptible after being hidden. surface-active (of a
substance, e.g. a detergent) able to affect the wetting
properties of a liquid. surface mail mail carried over land and
by sea, and not by air. surface noise extraneous noise in
playing a gramophone record, caused by imperfections in the
grooves. surface tension the tension of the surface-film of a
liquid, tending to minimize its surface area. ЬЬsurfaced adj.
(usu. in comb.). surfacer n. [F (as SUR-(1), FACE)]
surfactant
n. a substance which reduces surface tension. [surface-
active]
surfboard n. a long narrow board used in surf-riding.
surfeit n. & v. --n. 1 an excess esp. in eating or drinking. 2 a
feeling of satiety or disgust resulting from this. --v.
(surfeited, surfeiting) 1 tr. overfeed. 2 intr. overeat. 3
intr. & tr. (foll. by with) be or cause to be wearied through
excess. [ME f. OF sorfe(i)t, surfe(i)t (as SUPER-, L facere
fact- do)]
surficial adj. Geol. of or relating to the earth's surface.
ЬЬsurficially adv. [SURFACE after superficial]
surge n. & v. --n. 1 a sudden or impetuous onset (a surge of anger).
2 the swell of the waves at sea. 3 a heavy forward or upward
motion. 4 a rapid increase in price, activity, etc. over a
short period. 5 a sudden marked increase in voltage of an
electric current. --v.intr. 1 (of waves, the sea, etc.) rise
and fall or move heavily forward. 2 (of a crowd etc.) move
suddenly and powerfully forwards in large numbers. 3 (of an
electric current etc.) increase suddenly. 4 Naut. (of a rope,
chain, or windlass) slip back with a jerk. Ьsurge chamber (or
tank) a chamber designed to neutralize sudden changes of
pressure in a flow of liquid. [OF sourdre sourge-, or sorgir f.
Cat., f. L surgere rise]
surgeon n. 1 a medical practitioner qualified to practise surgery. 2 a
medical officer in a navy or army or military hospital.
Ьsurgeon fish any tropical marine fish of the genus Acanthurus
with movable lancet-shaped spines on each side of the tail.
surgeon general (pl. surgeons general) US the head of a public
health service or of an army etc. medical service. surgeon's
knot a reef-knot with a double twist. [ME f. AF surgien f. OF
serurgien (as SURGERY)]
surgery n. (pl. -ies) 1 the branch of medicine concerned with
treatment of injuries or disorders of the body by incision,
manipulation or alteration of organs etc., with the hands or
with instruments. 2 Brit. a a place where a doctor, dentist,
etc., treats patients. b the occasion of this (the doctor will
see you after surgery). 3 Brit. a a place where an MP, lawyer,
or other professional person gives advice. b the occasion of
this. [ME f. OF surgerie f. L chirurgia f. Gk kheirourgia
handiwork, surgery f. kheir hand + erg- work]
surgical adj. 1 of or relating to or done by surgeons or surgery. 2
resulting from surgery (surgical fever). 3 a used in surgery.
b (of a special garment etc.) worn to correct a deformity etc.
Ьsurgical spirit methylated spirit used in surgery for cleansing
etc. ЬЬsurgically adv. [earlier chirurgical f. chirurgy f. OF
sirurgie: see SURGEON]
suricate n. a South African burrowing mongoose, Suricata suricatta, with
grey and black stripes. [F f. S.Afr. native name]
Surinam toad
n. = PIPA. [Surinam in S. America]
surly adj. (surlier, surliest) bad-tempered and unfriendly; churlish.
ЬЬsurlily adv. surliness n. [alt. spelling of obs. sirly
haughty f. SIR + -LY(1)]
surmise n. & v. --n. a conjecture or suspicion about the existence or
truth of something. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by that + clause)
infer doubtfully; make a surmise about. 2 tr. suspect the
existence of. 3 intr. make a guess. [ME f. AF & OF fem. past
part. of surmettre accuse f. LL supermittere supermiss- (as
SUPER-, mittere send)]
surmount v.tr. 1 overcome or get over (a difficulty or obstacle). 2
(usu. in passive) cap or crown (peaks surmounted with snow).
ЬЬsurmountable adj. [ME f. OF surmonter (as SUR-(1), MOUNT(1))]
surmullet n. the red mullet. [F surmulet f. OF sor red + mulet MULLET]
surname n. & v. --n. 1 a hereditary name common to all members of a
family, as distinct from a Christian or first name. 2 archaic
an additional descriptive or allusive name attached to a person,
sometimes becoming hereditary. --v.tr. 1 give a surname to. 2
give (a person a surname). 3 (as surnamed adj.) having as a
family name. [ME, alt. of surnoun f. AF (as SUR-(1), NOUN
name)]
surplice n. a loose white linen vestment reaching the knees, worn over a
cassock by clergy and choristers at services. ЬЬsurpliced adj.
[ME f. AF surplis, OF sourpelis, f. med.L superpellicium (as
SUPER-, pellicia PELISSE)]
surplus n. & adj. --n. 1 an amount left over when requirements have
been met. 2 a an excess of revenue over expenditure in a given
period, esp. a financial year (opp. DEFICIT). b the excess
value of a company's assets over the face value of its stock.
--adj. exceeding what is needed or used. Ьsurplus value Econ.
the difference between the value of work done and wages paid.
[ME f. AF surplus, OF s(o)urplus f. med.L superplus (as SUPER-,
+ plus more)]
surprise n. & v. --n. 1 an unexpected or astonishing event or
circumstance. 2 the emotion caused by this. 3 the act of
catching a person etc. unawares, or the process of being caught
unawares. 4 (attrib.) unexpected; made or done etc. without
warning (a surprise visit). --v.tr. 1 affect with surprise;
turn out contrary to the expectations of (your answer surprised
me; I surprised her by arriving early). 2 (usu. in passive;
foll. by at) shock, scandalize (I am surprised at you). 3
capture or attack by surprise. 4 come upon (a person) unawares
(surprised him taking a biscuit). 5 (foll. by into) startle (a
person) by surprise into an action etc. (surprised them into
consenting). Ьtake by surprise affect with surprise, esp. by an
unexpected encounter or statement. ЬЬsurprisedly adv.
surprising adj. surprisingly adv. surprisingness n. [OF, fem.
past part. of surprendre (as SUR-(1), prendre f. L praehendere
seize)]
surra n. a febrile disease transmitted by bites of flies and
affecting horses and cattle in the tropics. [Marathi]
surreal adj. 1 having the qualities of surrealism. 2 strange, bizarre.
ЬЬsurreality n. surreally adv. [back-form. f. SURREALISM
etc.]
surrealism
n. a 20th-c. movement in art and literature aiming at
expressing the subconscious mind, e.g. by the irrational
juxtaposition of images. ЬЬsurrealist n. & adj. surrealistic
adj. surrealistically adv. [F surr‚alisme (as SUR-(1),
REALISM)]
surrebutter
n. Law the plaintiff's reply to the defendant's rebutter.
[SUR-(1) + REBUTTER, after SURREJOINDER]
surrejoinder
n. Law the plaintiff's reply to the defendant's rejoinder.
[SUR-(1) + REJOINDER]
surrender v. & n. --v. 1 tr. hand over; relinquish possession of, esp.
on compulsion or demand; give into another's power or control.
2 intr. a accept an enemy's demand for submission. b give
oneself up; cease from resistance; submit. 3 intr. & refl.
(foll. by to) give oneself over to a habit, emotion, influence,
etc. 4 tr. give up rights under (a life-insurance policy) in
return for a smaller sum received immediately. 5 tr. give up (a
lease) before its expiry. 6 tr. abandon (hope etc.). --n. the
act or an instance of surrendering. Ьsurrender to bail duly
appear in a lawcourt after release on bail. surrender value the
amount payable to one who surrenders a life-insurance policy.
[ME f. AF f. OF surrendre (as SUR-(1), RENDER)]
surreptitious
adj. 1 covert; kept secret. 2 done by stealth; clandestine.
ЬЬsurreptitiously adv. surreptitiousness n. [ME f. L
surrepticius -itius f. surripere surrept- (as SUR-(1), rapere
seize)]
surrey n. (pl. surreys) US a light four-wheeled carriage with two
seats facing forwards. [orig. of an adaptation of the Surrey
cart, orig. made in Surrey in England]
surrogate n. 1 a substitute, esp. for a person in a specific role or
office. 2 Brit. a deputy, esp. of a bishop in granting marriage
licences. 3 US a judge in charge of probate, inheritance, and
guardianship. Ьsurrogate mother 1 a person acting the role of
mother. 2 a woman who bears a child on behalf of another woman,
from her own egg fertilized by the other woman's partner.
ЬЬsurrogacy n. surrogateship n. [L surrogatus past part. of
surrogare elect as a substitute (as SUR-(1), rogare ask)]
surround v. & n. --v.tr. 1 come or be all round; encircle, enclose. 2
(in passive; foll. by by, with) have on all sides (the house is
surrounded by trees). --n. 1 Brit. a a border or edging, esp.
an area between the walls and carpet of a room. b a
floor-covering for this. 2 an area or substance surrounding
something. ЬЬsurrounding adj. [ME = overflow, f. AF
sur(o)under, OF s(o)uronder f. LL superundare (as SUPER-, undare
flow f. unda wave)]
surroundings
n.pl. the things in the neighbourhood of, or the conditions
affecting, a person or thing.
surtax n. & v. --n. an additional tax, esp. levied on incomes above a
certain level. --v.tr. impose a surtax on. [F surtaxe (as
SUR-(1), TAX)]
surtitle n. (esp. in opera) each of a sequence of captions projected
above the stage, translating the text being sung.
surtout n. hist. a greatcoat or frock-coat. [F f. sur over + tout
everything]
surveillance
n. close observation, esp. of a suspected person. [F f.
surveiller (as SUR-(1), veiller f. L vigilare keep watch)]
survey v. & n. --v.tr. 1 take or present a general view of. 2
examine the condition of (a building etc.). 3 determine the
boundaries, extent, ownership, etc., of (a district etc.). --n.
1 a general view or consideration of something. 2 a the act of
surveying property. b the result or findings of this, esp. in a
written report. 3 an inspection or investigation. 4 a map or
plan made by surveying an area. 5 a department carrying out the
surveying of land. [ME f. AF survei(e)r, OF so(u)rveeir (pres.
stem survey-) f. med.L supervidere (as SUPER-, videre see)]
surveyor n. 1 a person who surveys land and buildings, esp.
professionally. 2 Brit. an official inspector, esp. for
measurement and valuation. 3 a person who carries out surveys.
ЬЬsurveyorship n. (esp. in sense 2). [ME f. AF & OF surve(i)our
(as SURVEY)]
survival n. 1 the process or an instance of surviving. 2 a person,
thing, or practice that has remained from a former time.
Ьsurvival kit emergency rations etc., esp. carried by
servicemen. survival of the fittest the process or result of
natural selection.
survive v. 1 intr. continue to live or exist; be still alive or
existent. 2 tr. live or exist longer than. 3 tr. remain alive
after going through, or continue to exist in spite of (a danger,
accident, etc.). [ME f. AF survivre, OF sourvivre f. L
supervivere (as SUPER, vivere live)]
survivor n. 1 a person who survives or has survived. 2 Law a joint
tenant who has the right to the whole estate on the other's
death.
Sus. abbr. Susanna (Apocrypha).
sus var. of SUSS.
sus- prefix assim. form of SUB- before c, p, t.
susceptibility
n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state of being susceptible. 2 (in pl.) a
person's sensitive feelings. 3 Physics the ratio of
magnetization to a magnetizing force.
susceptible
adj. 1 impressionable, sensitive; easily moved by emotion. 2
(predic.) a (foll. by to) likely to be affected by; liable or
vulnerable to (susceptible to pain). b (foll. by of) allowing;
admitting of (facts not susceptible of proof). ЬЬsusceptibly
adv. [LL susceptibilis f. L suscipere suscept- (as SUB-, capere
take)]
susceptive
adj. 1 concerned with the receiving of emotional impressions or
ideas. 2 receptive. 3 = SUSCEPTIBLE. [LL susceptivus (as
SUSCEPTIBLE)]
sushi n. a Japanese dish of balls of cold rice flavoured and
garnished. [Jap.]
suslik n. an E. European and Asian ground squirrel, Citellus citellus.
[Russ.]
suspect v., n., & adj. --v.tr. 1 have an impression of the existence
or presence of (suspects poisoning). 2 (foll. by to be) believe
tentatively, without clear ground. 3 (foll. by that + clause)
be inclined to think. 4 (often foll. by of) be inclined to
mentally accuse; doubt the innocence of (suspect him of
complicity). 5 doubt the genuineness or truth of. --n. a
suspected person. --adj. subject to or deserving suspicion or
distrust; not sound or trustworthy. [ME f. L suspicere suspect-
(as SUB-, specere look)]
suspend v.tr. 1 hang up. 2 keep inoperative or undecided for a time;
defer. 3 debar temporarily from a function, office, privilege,
etc. 4 (as suspended adj.) (of solid particles or a body in a
fluid medium) sustained somewhere between top and bottom.
Ьsuspended animation a temporary cessation of the vital
functions without death. suspended sentence a judicial sentence
left unenforced subject to good behaviour during a specified
period. suspend payment (of a company) fail to meet its
financial engagements; admit insolvency. ЬЬsuspensible adj.
[ME f. OF suspendre or L suspendere suspens- (as SUB-, pendere
hang)]
suspender n. 1 an attachment to hold up a stocking or sock by its top. 2
(in pl.) US a pair of braces. Ьsuspender belt a woman's
undergarment with suspenders.
suspense n. 1 a state of anxious uncertainty or expectation. 2 Law a
suspension; the temporary cessation of a right etc. Ьkeep in
suspense delay informing (a person) of urgent information.
suspense account an account in which items are entered
temporarily before allocation to the right account.
ЬЬsuspenseful adj. [ME f. AF & OF suspens f. past part. of L
suspendere SUSPEND]
suspension
n. 1 the act of suspending or the condition of being suspended.
2 the means by which a vehicle is supported on its axles. 3 a
substance consisting of particles suspended in a medium. 4 Mus.
the prolongation of a note of a chord to form a discord with the
following chord. Ьsuspension bridge a bridge with a roadway
suspended from cables supported by structures at each end. [F
suspension or L suspensio (as SUSPEND)]
suspensive
adj. 1 having the power or tendency to suspend or postpone. 2
causing suspense. ЬЬsuspensively adv. suspensiveness n. [F
suspensif -ive or med.L suspensivus (as SUSPEND)]
suspensory
adj. (of a ligament, muscle, bandage, etc.) holding an organ
etc. suspended. [F suspensoire (as SUSPENSION)]
suspicion n. 1 the feeling or thought of a person who suspects. 2 the
act or an instance of suspecting; the state of being suspected.
3 (foll. by of) a slight trace of. Ьabove suspicion too
obviously good etc. to be suspected. under suspicion suspected.
[ME f. AF suspeciun (OF sospe‡on) f. med.L suspectio -onis f. L
suspicere (as SUSPECT): assim. to F suspicion & L suspicio]
suspicious
adj. 1 prone to or feeling suspicion. 2 indicating suspicion
(a suspicious glance). 3 inviting or justifying suspicion (a
suspicious lack of surprise). ЬЬsuspiciously adv.
suspiciousness n. [ME f. AF & OF f. L suspiciosus (as
SUSPICION)]
suss v. & n. (also sus) Brit. sl. --v.tr. (sussed, sussing) 1
suspect of a crime. 2 (usu. foll. by out) a investigate,
inspect (go and suss out the restaurants). b work out; grasp,
understand, realize (he had the market sussed). --n. 1 a
suspect. 2 a suspicion; suspicious behaviour. Ьon suss on
suspicion (of having committed a crime). [abbr. of SUSPECT,
SUSPICION]
Sussex n. 1 a speckled or red domestic fowl of an English breed. 2
this breed. [Sussex in S. England]
sustain v.tr. 1 support, bear the weight of, esp. for a long period. 2
give strength to; encourage, support. 3 (of food) give
nourishment to. 4 endure, stand; bear up against. 5 undergo or
suffer (defeat or injury etc.). 6 (of a court etc.) uphold or
decide in favour of (an objection etc.). 7 substantiate or
corroborate (a statement or charge). 8 maintain or keep (a
sound, effort, etc.) going continuously. 9 continue to
represent (a part, character, etc.) adequately. ЬЬsustainable
adj. sustainedly adv. sustainer n. sustainment n. [ME f. AF
sustein-, OF so(u)stein- stressed stem of so(u)stenir f. L
sustinere sustent- (as SUB-, tenere hold)]
sustenance
n. 1 a nourishment, food. b the process of nourishing. 2 a
means of support; a livelihood. [ME f. AF sustenaunce, OF
so(u)stenance (as SUSTAIN)]
sustentation
n. formal 1 the support of life. 2 maintenance. [ME f. OF
sustentation or L sustentatio f. sustentare frequent. of
sustinere SUSTAIN]
susurration
n. (also susurrus) literary a sound of whispering or rustling.
[ME f. LL susurratio f. L susurrare]
sutler n. hist. a person following an army and selling provisions
etc. to the soldiers. [obs. Du. soeteler f. soetelen befoul,
perform mean duties, f. Gmc]
Sutra n. 1 an aphorism or set of aphorisms in Hindu literature. 2 a
narrative part of Buddhist literature. 3 Jainist scripture.
[Skr. sutra thread, rule, f. siv SEW]
suttee n. (also sati) (pl. suttees or satis) esp. hist. 1 the Hindu
practice of a widow immolating herself on her husband's funeral
pyre. 2 a widow who undergoes or has undergone this. [Hindi &
Urdu f. Skr. sati faithful wife f. sat good]
suture n. & v. --n. 1 Surgery a the joining of the edges of a wound
or incision by stitching. b the thread or wire used for this.
2 the seamlike junction of two bones, esp. in the skull. 3 Bot.
& Zool. a similar junction of parts. --v.tr. Surgery stitch up
(a wound or incision) with a suture. ЬЬsutural adj. sutured
adj. [F suture or L sutura f. suere sut- sew]
suzerain n. 1 a feudal overlord. 2 a sovereign or State having some
control over another State that is internally autonomous.
ЬЬsuzerainty n. [F, app. f. sus above f. L su(r)sum upward,
after souverain SOVEREIGN]
swab n. & v. (also swob) --n. 1 a mop or other absorbent device for
cleaning or mopping up. 2 a an absorbent pad used in surgery.
b a specimen of a possibly morbid secretion taken with a swab
for examination. 3 sl. a term of contempt for a person.
--v.tr. (swabbed, swabbing) 1 clean with a swab. 2 (foll. by
up) absorb (moisture) with a swab. [back-form. f. swabber f.
early mod.Du. zwabber f. a Gmc base = 'splash, sway']
swaddle v.tr. swathe (esp. an infant) in garments or bandages etc.
Ьswaddling-clothes narrow bandages formerly wrapped round a
newborn child to restrain its movements and quieten it. [ME f.
SWATHE + -LE(4)]
swag n. & v. --n. 1 sl. a the booty carried off by burglars etc.
b illicit gains. 2 a an ornamental festoon of flowers etc. b a
carved etc. representation of this. c drapery of similar
appearance. 3 Austral. & NZ a traveller's or miner's bundle of
personal belongings. --v. (swagged, swagging) 1 tr. arrange (a
curtain etc.) in swags. 2 intr. a hang heavily. b sway from
side to side. 3 tr. cause to sway or sag. [16th c.: prob. f.
Scand.]
swage n. & v. --n. 1 a die or stamp for shaping wrought iron etc. by
hammering or pressure. 2 a tool for bending metal etc. --v.tr.
shape with a swage. Ьswage-block a block with various
perforations, grooves, etc., for shaping metal. [F s(o)uage
decorative groove, of unkn. orig.]
swagger v., n., & adj. --v.intr. 1 walk arrogantly or
self-importantly. 2 behave arrogantly; be domineering. --n. 1
a swaggering gait or manner. 2 swaggering behaviour. 3 a
dashing or confident air or way of doing something. 4
smartness. --adj. 1 colloq. smart or fashionable. 2 (of a
coat) cut with a loose flare from the shoulders. Ьswagger stick
a short cane carried by a military officer. ЬЬswaggerer n.
swaggeringly adv. [app. f. SWAG v. + -ER(4)]
swagman n. (pl. -men) Austral. & NZ a tramp carrying a swag (see SWAG
n. 3).
Swahili n. (pl. same) 1 a member of a Bantu people of Zanzibar and
adjacent coasts. 2 their language, used widely as a lingua
franca in E. Africa. [Arab. sawahil pl. of sahil coast]
swain n. 1 archaic a country youth. 2 poet. a young lover or suitor.
[ME swein f. ON sveinn lad = OE swan swineherd, f. Gmc]
swallow(1)
v. & n. --v. 1 tr. cause or allow (food etc.) to pass down the
throat. 2 intr. perform the muscular movement of the oesophagus
required to do this. 3 tr. a accept meekly; put up with (an
affront etc.). b accept credulously (an unlikely assertion
etc.). 4 tr. repress; resist the expression of (a feeling etc.)
(swallow one's pride). 5 tr. articulate (words etc.)
indistinctly. 6 tr. (often foll. by up) engulf or absorb;
exhaust; cause to disappear. --n. 1 the act of swallowing. 2
an amount swallowed in one action. Ьswallow-hole Brit. =
sink-hole (see SINK n. 6). ЬЬswallowable adj. swallower n.
[OE swelg (n.), swelgan (v.) f. Gmc]
swallow(2)
n. any of various migratory swift-flying insect-eating birds of
the family Hirundinidae, esp. Hirundo rustica, with a forked
tail and long pointed wings. Ьone swallow does not make a
summer a warning against a hasty inference from one instance.
swallow-dive a dive with the arms outspread until close to the
water. swallow-tail 1 a deeply forked tail. 2 anything
resembling this shape. 3 any butterfly of the family
Papilionidae with wings extended at the back to this shape.
swallow-tailed having a swallow-tail. [OE swealwe f. Gmc]
swam past of SWIM.
swami n. (pl. swamis) a Hindu male religious teacher. [Hindi swami
master, prince, f. Skr. svamin]
swamp n. & v. --n. a piece of waterlogged ground; a bog or marsh.
--v. 1 a tr. overwhelm, flood, or soak with water. b intr.
become swamped. 2 tr. overwhelm or make invisible etc. with an
excess or large amount of something. ЬЬswampy adj. (swampier,
swampiest). [17th c., = dial. swamp sunk (14th c.), prob. of
Gmc orig.]
swan n. & v. --n. 1 a large water-bird of the genus Cygnus etc.,
having a long flexible neck, webbed feet, and in most species
snow-white plumage. 2 literary a poet. --v.intr. (swanned,
swanning) (usu. foll. by about, off, etc.) colloq. move or go
aimlessly or casually or with a superior air. Ьswan-dive US =
swallow-dive (see SWALLOW(2)). swan-neck a curved structure
shaped like a swan's neck. Swan of Avon literary Shakespeare.
swan-upping Brit. the annual taking up and marking of Thames
swans. ЬЬswanlike adj. & adv. [OE f. Gmc]
swank n., v., & adj. colloq. --n. ostentation, swagger, bluff.
--v.intr. behave with swank; show off. --adj. esp. US =
SWANKY. [19th c.: orig. uncert.]
swankpot n. Brit. colloq. a person behaving with swank.
swanky adj. (swankier, swankiest) 1 marked by swank; ostentatiously
smart or showy. 2 (of a person) inclined to swank; boastful.
ЬЬswankily adv. swankiness n.
swannery n. (pl. -ies) a place where swans are bred.
swansdown n. 1 the fine down of a swan, used in trimmings and esp. in
powder-puffs. 2 a kind of thick cotton cloth with a soft nap on
one side.
swansong n. 1 a person's last work or act before death or retirement
etc. 2 a song like that fabled to be sung by a dying swan.
swap v. & n. (also swop) --v.tr. & intr. (swapped, swapping)
exchange or barter (one thing for another). --n. 1 an act of
swapping. 2 a thing suitable for swapping. 3 a thing swapped.
ЬЬswapper n. [ME, orig. = 'hit': prob. imit.]
SWAPO abbr. South West Africa People's Organization.
Swaraj n. hist. self-government or independence for India.
ЬЬSwarajist n. [Skr., = self-ruling: cf. RAJ]
sward n. literary 1 an expanse of short grass. 2 turf. ЬЬswarded
adj. [OE sweard skin]
sware archaic past of SWEAR.
swarf n. 1 fine chips or filings of stone, metal, etc. 2 wax etc.
removed in cutting a gramophone record. [ON svarf file-dust]
swarm(1) n. & v. --n. 1 a cluster of bees leaving the hive with the
queen to establish a new colony. 2 a large number of insects or
birds moving in a cluster. 3 a large group of people, esp.
moving over or filling a large area. 4 (in pl.; foll. by of)
great numbers. 5 a group of zoospores. --v.intr. 1 move in or
form a swarm. 2 gather or move in large numbers. 3 (foll. by
with) (of a place) be overrun, crowded, or infested (was
swarming with tourists). [OE swearm f. Gmc]
swarm(2) v.intr. (foll. by up) & tr. climb (a rope or tree etc.), esp.
in a rush, by clasping or clinging with the hands and knees etc.
[16th c.: orig. unkn.]
swart adj. archaic swarthy, dark-hued. [OE sweart f. Gmc]
swarthy adj. (swarthier, swarthiest) dark, dark-complexioned.
ЬЬswarthily adv. swarthiness n. [var. of obs. swarty (as
SWART)]
swash(1) v. & n. --v. 1 intr. (of water etc.) wash about; make the
sound of washing or rising and falling. 2 tr. archaic strike
violently. 3 intr. archaic swagger. --n. the motion or sound
of swashing water. [imit.]
swash(2) adj. 1 inclined obliquely. 2 (of a letter) having a flourished
stroke or strokes. Ьswash-plate an inclined disc revolving on
an axle and giving reciprocating motion to a part in contact
with it. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
swashbuckler
n. a swaggering bully or ruffian. ЬЬswashbuckling adj. & n.
[SWASH(1) + BUCKLER]
swastika n. 1 an ancient symbol formed by an equal-armed cross with each
arm continued at a right angle. 2 this with clockwise
continuations as the symbol of Nazi Germany. [Skr. svastika f.
svastЎ well-being f. sЈ good + astЎ being]
swat v. & n. --v.tr. (swatted, swatting) 1 crush (a fly etc.) with
a sharp blow. 2 hit hard and abruptly. --n. a swatting blow.
[17th c. in the sense 'sit down': N.Engl. dial. & US var. of
SQUAT]
swatch n. 1 a sample, esp. of cloth or fabric. 2 a collection of
samples. [17th c.: orig. unkn.]
swath n. (also swathe) (pl. swaths or swathes) 1 a ridge of grass or
corn etc. lying after being cut. 2 a space left clear after the
passage of a mower etc. 3 a broad strip. Ьcut a wide swath be
effective in destruction. [OE sw‘th, swathu]
swathe v. & n. --v.tr. bind or enclose in bandages or garments etc.
--n. a bandage or wrapping. [OE swathian]
swatter n. an implement for swatting flies.
sway v. & n. --v. 1 intr. & tr. lean or cause to lean unsteadily in
different directions alternately. 2 intr. oscillate
irregularly; waver. 3 tr. a control the motion or direction
of. b have influence or rule over. --n. 1 rule, influence, or
government (hold sway). 2 a swaying motion or position.
Ьsway-back an abnormally hollowed back (esp. of a horse);
lordosis. sway-backed (esp. of a horse) having a sway-back.
[ME: cf. LG swajen be blown to and fro, Du. zwaaien swing,
wave]
swear v. & n. --v. (past swore; past part. sworn) 1 tr. a (often
foll. by to + infin. or that + clause) state or promise solemnly
or on oath. b take (an oath). 2 tr. colloq. say emphatically;
insist (swore he had not seen it). 3 tr. cause to take an oath
(swore them to secrecy). 4 intr. (often foll. by at) use
profane or indecent language, esp. as an expletive or from
anger. 5 tr. (often foll. by against) make a sworn affirmation
of (an offence) (swear treason against). 6 intr. (foll. by by)
a appeal to as a witness in taking an oath (swear by Almighty
God). b colloq. have or express great confidence in (swears by
yoga). 7 intr. (foll. by to; usu. in neg.) admit the certainty
of (could not swear to it). 8 intr. (foll. by at) colloq. (of
colours etc.) fail to harmonize with. --n. a spell of swearing.
Ьswear blind colloq. affirm emphatically. swear in induct into
office etc. by administering an oath. swear off colloq.
promise to abstain from (drink etc.). swear-word a profane or
indecent word, esp. uttered as an expletive. ЬЬswearer n. [OE
swerian f. Gmc, rel. to ANSWER]
sweat n. & v. --n. 1 moisture exuded through the pores of the skin,
esp. from heat or nervousness. 2 a state or period of sweating.
3 colloq. a state of anxiety (was in a sweat about it). 4
colloq. a drudgery, effort. b a laborious task or undertaking.
5 condensed moisture on a surface. --v. (past and past part.
sweated or US sweat) 1 intr. exude sweat; perspire. 2 intr. be
terrified, suffering, etc. 3 intr. (of a wall etc.) exhibit
surface moisture. 4 intr. drudge, toil. 5 tr. heat (meat or
vegetables) slowly in fat or water to extract the juices. 6 tr.
emit (blood, gum, etc.) like sweat. 7 tr. make (a horse,
athlete, etc.) sweat by exercise. 8 tr. a cause to drudge or
toil. b (as sweated adj.) (of goods, workers, or labour)
produced by or subjected to long hours under poor conditions. 9
tr. subject (hides or tobacco) to fermentation in manufacturing.
Ьby the sweat of one's brow by one's own hard work. no sweat
colloq. there is no need to worry. sweat-band a band of
absorbent material inside a hat or round a wrist etc. to soak
up sweat. sweat blood colloq. 1 work strenuously. 2 be
extremely anxious. sweat gland Anat. a spiral tubular gland
below the skin secreting sweat. sweating-sickness an epidemic
fever with sweating prevalent in England in the 15th-16th c.
sweat it out colloq. endure a difficult experience to the end.
[ME swet(e), alt. (after swete v. f. OE sw‘tan OHG sweizzen
roast) of swote f. OE swat f. Gmc]
sweater n. 1 a jersey or pullover of a kind worn before, during, or
after exercise, or as an informal garment. 2 an employer who
works employees hard in poor conditions for low pay.
sweatshirt
n. a sleeved cotton sweater of a kind worn by athletes before
and after exercise.
sweatshop n. a workshop where sweated labour is used.
sweatsuit n. a suit of a sweatshirt and loose trousers, as worn by
athletes etc.
sweaty adj. (sweatier, sweatiest) 1 sweating; covered with sweat. 2
causing sweat. ЬЬsweatily adv. sweatiness n.
Swede n. 1 a a native or national of Sweden. b a person of Swedish
descent. 2 (swede) (in full swede turnip) a large
yellow-fleshed turnip, Brassica napus, orig. from Sweden. [MLG
& MDu. Swede, prob. f. ON SvЎthjўth f. SvЎar Swedes + thjўth
people]
Swedish adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to Sweden or its people or
language. --n. the language of Sweden.
Sweeney n. (prec. by the) Brit. sl. the members of a flying squad.
[rhyming sl. f. Sweeney Todd, a barber who murdered his
customers]
sweep v. & n. --v. (past and past part. swept) 1 tr. clean or clear
(a room or area etc.) with or as with a broom. 2 intr. (often
foll. by up) clean a room etc. in this way. 3 tr. (often foll.
by up) collect or remove (dirt or litter etc.) by sweeping. 4
tr. (foll. by aside, away, etc.) a push with or as with a
broom. b dismiss or reject abruptly (their objections were
swept aside). 5 tr. (foll. by along, down, etc.) carry or drive
along with force. 6 tr. (foll. by off, away, etc.) remove or
clear forcefully. 7 tr. traverse swiftly or lightly (the wind
swept the hillside). 8 tr. impart a sweeping motion to (swept
his hand across). 9 tr. swiftly cover or affect (a new fashion
swept the country). 10 intr. a glide swiftly; speed along with
unchecked motion. b go majestically. 11 intr. (of geographical
features etc.) have continuous extent. 12 tr. drag (a
river-bottom etc.) to search for something. 13 tr. (of
artillery etc.) include in the line of fire; cover the whole of.
14 tr. propel (a barge etc.) with sweeps. --n. 1 the act or
motion or an instance of sweeping. 2 a curve in the road, a
sweeping line of a hill, etc. 3 range or scope (beyond the
sweep of the human mind). 4 = chimney-sweep. 5 a sortie by
aircraft. 6 colloq. = SWEEPSTAKE. 7 a long oar worked from a
barge etc. 8 the sail of a windmill. 9 a long pole mounted as
a lever for raising buckets from a well. 10 Electronics the
movement of a beam across the screen of a cathode-ray tube.
Ьmake a clean sweep of 1 completely abolish or expel. 2 win all
the prizes etc. in (a competition etc.). sweep away 1 abolish
swiftly. 2 (usu. in passive) powerfully affect, esp.
emotionally. sweep the board 1 win all the money in a
gambling-game. 2 win all possible prizes etc. sweep-second
hand a second hand on a clock or watch, moving on the same dial
as the other hands. sweep under the carpet see CARPET.
swept-back (of an aircraft wing) fixed at an acute angle to the
fuselage, inclining outwards towards the rear. swept-up (of
hair) = UPSWEPT. swept-wing (of an aircraft) having swept-back
wings. [ME swepe (earlier swope) f. OE swapan]
sweepback n. the angle at which an aircraft's wing is set back from a
position at right angles to the body.
sweeper n. 1 a person who cleans by sweeping. 2 a device for sweeping
carpets etc. 3 Football a defensive player positioned close to
the goalkeeper.
sweeping adj. & n. --adj. 1 wide in range or effect (sweeping changes).
2 taking no account of particular cases or exceptions (a
sweeping statement). --n. (in pl.) dirt etc. collected by
sweeping. ЬЬsweepingly adv. sweepingness n.
sweepstake
n. 1 a form of gambling on horse-races etc. in which all
competitors' stakes are paid to the winners. 2 a race with
betting of this kind. 3 a prize or prizes won in a sweepstake.
sweet adj. & n. --adj. 1 having the pleasant taste characteristic of
sugar. 2 smelling pleasant like roses or perfume etc.;
fragrant. 3 (of sound etc.) melodious or harmonious. 4 a not
salt, sour, or bitter. b fresh, with flavour unimpaired by
rottenness. c (of water) fresh and readily drinkable. 5 (of
wine) having a sweet taste (opp. DRY). 6 highly gratifying or
attractive. 7 amiable, pleasant (has a sweet nature). 8
colloq. (of a person or thing) pretty, charming, endearing. 9
(foll. by on) colloq. fond of; in love with. --n. 1 Brit. a
small shaped piece of confectionery usu. made with sugar or
sweet chocolate. 2 Brit. a sweet dish forming a course of a
meal. 3 a sweet part of something; sweetness. 4 (in pl.)
delights, gratification. 5 (esp. as a form of address)
sweetheart etc. Ьshe's sweet Austral. sl. all is well.
sweet-and-sour cooked in a sauce containing sugar and vinegar or
lemon etc. sweet basil see BASIL. sweet bay = BAY(2).
sweet-brier see BRIER(1). sweet chestnut see CHESTNUT. sweet
cicely a white-flowered aromatic plant, Myrrhis odorata. sweet
corn 1 a kind of maize with kernels having a high sugar content.
2 these kernels, eaten as a vegetable when young. sweet flag =
sweet rush. sweet-gale see GALE(2). sweet pea any climbing
plant of the genus Lathyrus, esp. L. odoratus with fragrant
flowers in many colours. sweet pepper see PEPPER. sweet potato
1 a tropical climbing plant, Ipomoea batatas, with sweet
tuberous roots used for food. 2 the root of this. sweet rocket
see ROCKET(2). sweet rush (or sedge) a kind of sedge with a
thick creeping aromatic rootstock used in medicine and
confectionery. sweet sultan a sweet-scented plant, Centaurea
moschata or C. suaveoleus. sweet talk colloq. flattery,
blandishment. sweet-talk v.tr. colloq. flatter in order to
persuade. sweet-tempered amiable. sweet tooth a liking for
sweet-tasting things. sweet violet a sweet-scented violet,
Viola odorata. sweet william a plant, Dianthus barbatus, with
clusters of vivid fragrant flowers. ЬЬsweetish adj. sweetly
adv. [OE swete f. Gmc]
sweetbread
n. the pancreas or thymus of an animal, esp. as food.
sweeten v.tr. & intr. 1 make or become sweet or sweeter. 2 make
agreeable or less painful. Ьsweeten the pill see PILL.
ЬЬsweetening n.
sweetener n. 1 a substance used to sweeten food or drink. 2 colloq. a
bribe or inducement.
sweetheart
n. 1 a lover or darling. 2 a term of endearment (esp. as a
form of address). Ьsweetheart agreement (or deal) colloq. an
industrial agreement reached privately by employers and trade
unions in their own interests.
sweetie n. colloq. 1 Brit. a sweet. 2 (also sweetie-pie) a term of
endearment (esp. as a form of address).
sweeting n. 1 a sweet-flavoured variety of apple. 2 archaic darling.
sweetmeal n. 1 sweetened wholemeal. 2 a sweetmeal biscuit.
sweetmeat n. 1 a sweet (see SWEET n. 1). 2 a small fancy cake.
sweetness n. the quality of being sweet; fragrance, melodiousness, etc.
Ьsweetness and light a display of (esp. uncharacteristic)
mildness and reason.
sweetshop n. Brit. a shop selling sweets as its main item.
sweetsop n. 1 a tropical American evergreen shrub, Annona squamosa. 2
the fruit of this, having a green rind and a sweet pulp.
swell v., n., & adj. --v. (past part. swollen or swelled) 1 intr. &
tr. grow or cause to grow bigger or louder or more intense;
expand; increase in force or intensity. 2 intr. (often foll. by
up) & tr. rise or raise up from the surrounding surface. 3
intr. (foll. by out) bulge. 4 intr. (of the heart as the seat
of emotion) feel full of joy, pride, relief, etc. 5 intr.
(foll. by with) be hardly able to restrain (pride etc.). --n.
1 an act or the state of swelling. 2 the heaving of the sea
with waves that do not break, e.g. after a storm. 3 a a
crescendo. b a mechanism in an organ etc. for obtaining a
crescendo or diminuendo. 4 colloq. a person of distinction or
of dashing or fashionable appearance. 5 a protuberant part.
--adj. 1 esp. US colloq. fine, splendid, excellent. 2 colloq.
smart, fashionable. Ьswell-box Mus. a box in which organ-pipes
are enclosed, with a shutter for controlling the sound-level.
swelled (or swollen) head colloq. conceit. swell-organ Mus. a
section of an organ with pipes in a swell-box. ЬЬswellish adj.
[OE swellan f. Gmc]
swelling n. an abnormal protuberance on or in the body.
swelter v. & n. --v.intr. (of the atmosphere, or a person etc.
suffering from it) be uncomfortably hot. --n. a sweltering
atmosphere or condition. ЬЬswelteringly adv. [base of (now
dial.) swelt f. OE sweltan perish f. Gmc]
swept past and past part. of SWEEP.
swerve v. & n. --v.intr. & tr. change or cause to change direction,
esp. abruptly. --n. 1 a swerving movement. 2 divergence from
a course. ЬЬswerveless adj. swerver n. [ME, repr. OE sweorfan
SCOUR(1)]
SWG abbr. standard wire gauge.
swift adj., adv., & n. --adj. 1 quick, rapid; soon coming or
passing. 2 speedy, prompt (a swift response; was swift to act).
--adv. (archaic except in comb.) swiftly (swift-moving). --n.
1 any swift-flying insect-eating bird of the family Apodidae,
with long wings and a superficial resemblance to a swallow. 2 a
revolving frame for winding yarn etc. from. ЬЬswiftly adv.
swiftness n. [OE, rel. to swifan move in a course]
swiftie n. Austral. sl. 1 a deceptive trick. 2 a person who acts or
thinks quickly.
swiftlet n. a small swift of the genus Collocalia.
swig v. & n. --v.tr. & intr. (swigged, swigging) colloq. drink in
large draughts. --n. a swallow of drink, esp. a large amount.
ЬЬswigger n. [16th c., orig. as noun in obs. sense 'liquor':
orig. unkn.]
swill v. & n. --v. 1 tr. (often foll. by out) rinse or flush; pour
water over or through. 2 tr. & intr. drink greedily. --n. 1
an act of rinsing. 2 mainly liquid refuse as pig-food. 3
inferior liquor. ЬЬswiller n. [OE swillan, swilian, of unkn.
orig.]
swim v. & n. --v. (swimming; past swam; past part. swum) 1 intr.
propel the body through water by working the arms and legs, or
(of a fish) the fins and tail. 2 tr. a traverse (a stretch of
water or its distance) by swimming. b compete in (a race) by
swimming. c use (a particular stroke) in swimming. 3 intr.
float on or at the surface of a liquid (bubbles swimming on the
surface). 4 intr. appear to undulate or reel or whirl. 5 intr.
have a dizzy effect or sensation (my head swam). 6 intr. (foll.
by in, with) be flooded. --n. 1 a spell or the act of
swimming. 2 a deep pool frequented by fish in a river. Ьin the
swim involved in or acquainted with what is going on.
swim-bladder a gas-filled sac in fishes used to maintain
buoyancy. swimming-bath (or -pool) an artificial indoor or
outdoor pool for swimming. swimming-costume Brit. a garment
worn for swimming. ЬЬswimmable adj. swimmer n. [OE swimman f.
Gmc]
swimmeret n. a swimming-foot in crustaceans.
swimmingly
adv. with easy and unobstructed progress.
swimsuit n. a one-piece swimming-costume worn by women. ЬЬswimsuited
adj.
swimwear n. clothing worn for swimming.
swindle v. & n. --v.tr. (often foll. by out of) 1 cheat (a person) of
money, possessions, etc. (was swindled out of all his savings).
2 cheat a person of (money etc.) (swindled all his savings out
of him). --n. 1 an act of swindling. 2 a person or thing
represented as what it is not. 3 a fraudulent scheme.
ЬЬswindler n. [back-form. f. swindler f. G Schwindler
extravagant maker of schemes, swindler, f. schwindeln be dizzy]
swine n. (pl. same) 1 formal or US a pig. 2 colloq. (pl. swine or
swines) a a term of contempt or disgust for a person. b a very
unpleasant or difficult thing. Ьswine fever an intestinal virus
disease of pigs. ЬЬswinish adj. (esp. in sense 2). swinishly
adv. swinishness n. [OE swin f. Gmc]
swineherd n. a person who tends pigs.
swing v. & n. --v. (past and past part. swung) 1 intr. & tr. move
or cause to move with a to-and-fro or curving motion, as of an
object attached at one end and hanging free at the other. 2
intr. & tr. a sway. b hang so as to be free to sway. c
oscillate or cause to oscillate. 3 intr. & tr. revolve or cause
to revolve. 4 intr. move by gripping something and leaping etc.
(swung from tree to tree). 5 intr. go with a swinging gait
(swung out of the room). 6 intr. (foll. by round) move round to
the opposite direction. 7 intr. change from one opinion or mood
to another. 8 intr. (foll. by at) attempt to hit or punch. 9 a
intr. (also swing it) play music with a swing rhythm. b tr.
play (a tune) with swing. 10 intr. colloq. a be lively or up
to date; enjoy oneself. b be promiscuous. 11 intr. colloq.
(of a party etc.) be lively, successful, etc. 12 tr. have a
decisive influence on (esp. voting etc.). 13 tr. colloq. deal
with or achieve; manage. 14 intr. colloq. be executed by
hanging. 15 Cricket a intr. (of the ball) deviate from a
straight course in the air. b tr. cause (the ball) to do this.
--n. 1 the act or an instance of swinging. 2 the motion of
swinging. 3 the extent of swinging. 4 a swinging or smooth
gait or rhythm or action. 5 a a seat slung by ropes or chains
etc. for swinging on or in. b a spell of swinging on this. 6
an easy but vigorous continued action. 7 a jazz or dance music
with an easy flowing rhythm. b the rhythmic feeling or drive of
this music. 8 a discernible change in opinion, esp. the amount
by which votes or points scored etc. change from one side to
another. Ьswing-boat a boat-shaped swing at fairs.
swing-bridge a bridge that can be swung to one side to allow the
passage of ships. swing-door a door able to open in either
direction and close itself when released. swing the lead Brit.
colloq. malinger; shirk one's duty. swings and roundabouts a
situation affording no eventual gain or loss (from the phr.
lose on the swings what you make on the roundabouts). swing
shift US a work shift from afternoon to late evening.
swing-wing an aircraft wing that can move from a right-angled to
a swept-back position. swung dash a dash (°) with alternate
curves. ЬЬswinger n. (esp. in sense 10 of v.). [OE swingan to
beat f. Gmc]
swinge v.tr. (swingeing) archaic strike hard; beat. [alt. f. ME
swenge f. OE swengan shake, shatter, f. Gmc]
swingeing adj. esp. Brit. 1 (of a blow) forcible. 2 huge or
far-reaching, esp. in severity (swingeing economies).
ЬЬswingeingly adv.
swinging adj. 1 (of gait, melody, etc.) vigorously rhythmical. 2
colloq. a lively; up to date; excellent. b promiscuous.
ЬЬswingingly adv.
swingle n. & v. --n. 1 a wooden instrument for beating flax and
removing the woody parts from it. 2 the swinging part of a
flail. --v.tr. clean (flax) with a swingle. [ME f. MDu.
swinghel (as SWING, -LE(1))]
swingletree
n. a crossbar pivoted in the middle, to which the traces are
attached in a cart, plough, etc.
swingy adj. (swingier, swingiest) 1 (of music) characterized by swing
(see SWING n. 7). 2 (of a skirt or dress) designed to swing
with body movement.
swipe v. & n. colloq. --v. 1 tr. & (often foll. by at) intr. hit
hard and recklessly. 2 tr. steal. --n. a reckless hard hit or
attempted hit. ЬЬswiper n. [perh. var. of SWEEP]
swipple n. the swingle of a flail. [ME, prob. formed as SWEEP +
-LE(1)]
swirl v. & n. --v.intr. & tr. move or flow or carry along with a
whirling motion. --n. 1 a swirling motion of or in water, air,
etc. 2 the act of swirling. 3 a twist or curl, esp. as part of
a pattern or design. ЬЬswirly adj. [ME (orig. as noun): orig.
Sc., perh. of LG or Du. orig.]
swish v., n., & adj. --v. 1 tr. swing (a scythe or stick etc.)
audibly through the air, grass, etc. 2 intr. move with or make
a swishing sound. 3 tr. (foll. by off) cut (a flower etc.) in
this way. --n. a swishing action or sound. --adj. colloq.
smart, fashionable. ЬЬswishy adj. [imit.]
Swiss adj. & n. --adj. of or relating to Switzerland in Western
Europe or its people. --n. (pl. same) 1 a native or national
of Switzerland. 2 a person of Swiss descent. ЬSwiss chard =
CHARD. Swiss cheese plant a climbing house-plant, Monstera
deliciosa, with aerial roots and holes in the leaves (as in some
Swiss cheeses). Swiss roll a cylindrical cake with a spiral
cross-section, made from a flat piece of sponge cake spread with
jam etc. and rolled up. [F Suisse f. MHG Swiz]
switch n. & v. --n. 1 a device for making and breaking the connection
in an electric circuit. 2 a a transfer, change-over, or
deviation. b an exchange. 3 a slender flexible shoot cut from
a tree. 4 a light tapering rod. 5 US a device at the junction
of railway tracks for transferring a train from one track to
another; = POINT n. 17. 6 a tress of false or detached hair
tied at one end used in hairdressing. --v. 1 tr. (foll. by on,
off) turn (an electrical device) on or off. 2 intr. change or
transfer position, subject, etc. 3 tr. change or transfer. 4
tr. reverse the positions of; exchange (switched chairs). 5 tr.
swing or snatch (a thing) suddenly (switched it out of my hand).
6 tr. beat or flick with a switch. Ьswitch-blade a pocket knife
with the blade released by a spring. switched-on colloq. 1 up
to date; aware of what is going on. 2 excited; under the
influence of drugs. switch off colloq. cease to pay attention.
switch over change or exchange. switch-over n. a change or
exchange. ЬЬswitcher n. [earlier swits, switz, prob. f. LG]
switchback
n. 1 Brit. a railway at a fair etc., in which the train's
ascents are effected by the momentum of its previous descents.
2 (often attrib.) a railway or road with alternate sharp ascents
and descents.
switchboard
n. an apparatus for varying connections between electric
circuits, esp. in telephony.
swither v. & n. Sc. --v.intr. hesitate; be uncertain. --n. doubt or
uncertainty. [16th c.: orig. unkn.]
swivel n. & v. --n. a coupling between two parts enabling one to
revolve without turning the other. --v.tr. & intr. (swivelled,
swivelling; US swiveled, swiveling) turn on or as on a swivel.
Ьswivel chair a chair with a seat able to be turned
horizontally. [ME f. weak grade swif- of OE swifan sweep +
-LE(1): cf. SWIFT]
swizz n. (also swiz) (pl. swizzes) Brit. colloq. 1 something
unfair or disappointing. 2 a swindle. [abbr. of SWIZZLE(2)]
swizzle(1)
n. & v. colloq. --n. a mixed alcoholic drink esp. of rum or
gin and bitters made frothy. --v.tr. stir with a swizzle-stick.
Ьswizzle-stick a stick used for frothing or flattening drinks.
[19th c.: orig. unkn.]
swizzle(2)
n. Brit. colloq. = SWIZZ. [20th c.: prob. alt. of SWINDLE]
swob var. of SWAB.
swollen past part. of SWELL.
swoon v. & n. literary --v.intr. faint; fall into a fainting-fit.
--n. an occurrence of fainting. [ME swoune perh. back-form. f.
swogning (n.) f. iswogen f. OE geswogen overcome]
swoop v. & n. --v. 1 intr. (often foll. by down) descend rapidly
like a bird of prey. 2 intr. (often foll. by on) make a sudden
attack from a distance. 3 tr. (often foll. by up) colloq.
snatch the whole of at one swoop. --n. a swooping or snatching
movement or action. Ьat (or in) one fell swoop see FELL(4).
[perh. dial. var. of obs. swope f. OE swapan: see SWEEP]
swoosh n. & v. --n. the noise of a sudden rush of liquid, air, etc.
--v.intr. move with this noise. [imit.]
swop var. of SWAP.
sword n. 1 a weapon usu. of metal with a long blade and hilt with a
handguard, used esp. for thrusting or striking, and often worn
as part of ceremonial dress. 2 (prec. by the) a war. b
military power. Ьput to the sword kill, esp. in war.
sword-bearer an official carrying the sovereign's etc. sword on
a formal occasion. sword dance a dance in which the performers
brandish swords or step about swords laid on the ground. sword
grass a grass, Scirpus americanus, with swordlike leaves. sword
knot a ribbon or tassel attached to a sword-hilt orig. for
securing it to the wrist. sword lily = GLADIOLUS. sword of
Damocles an imminent danger (from Damokles, flatterer of
Dionysius of Syracuse (4th c. BC) made to feast while a sword
hung by a hair over him). the sword of justice judicial
authority. Sword of State a sword borne before the sovereign on
State occasions. sword-swallower a person ostensibly or
actually swallowing sword blades as entertainment. ЬЬswordlike
adj. [OE sw(e)ord f. Gmc]
swordbill n. a long-billed humming-bird, Ensifera ensifera.
swordfish n. a large marine fish, Xiphias gladius, with an extended
swordlike upper jaw.
swordplay n. 1 fencing. 2 repartee; cut-and-thrust argument.
swordsman n. (pl. -men) a person of (usu. specified) skill with a sword.
ЬЬswordsmanship n.
swordstick
n. a hollow walking-stick containing a blade that can be used
as a sword.
swordtail n. 1 a tropical fish, Xiphophorus helleri, with a long tail. 2
= horseshoe crab.
swore past of SWEAR.
sworn 1 past part. of SWEAR. 2 adj. bound by or as by an oath (sworn
enemies).
swot v. & n. Brit. colloq. --v. (swotted, swotting) 1 intr. study
assiduously. 2 tr. (often foll. by up) study (a subject) hard
or hurriedly. --n. 1 a person who swots. 2 a hard study. b a
thing that requires this. [dial. var. of SWEAT]
sybarite n. & adj. --n. a person who is self-indulgent or devoted to
sensuous luxury. --adj. fond of luxury or sensuousness.
ЬЬsybaritic adj. sybaritical adj. sybaritically adv.
sybaritism n. [orig. an inhabitant of Sybaris in S. Italy,
noted for luxury, f. L sybarita f. Gk subarites]
sycamine n. Bibl. the black mulberry tree, Morus nigra (see Luke 17:6;
in modern versions translated as 'mulberry tree'). [L sycaminus
f. Gk sukaminos mulberry-tree f. Heb. sikmah sycamore, assim.
to Gk sukon fig]
sycamore n. 1 (in full sycamore maple) a a large maple, Acer
pseudoplatanus, with winged seeds, grown for its shade and
timber. b its wood. 2 US the plane-tree or its wood. 3 Bibl.
a fig-tree, Ficus sycomorus, growing in Egypt, Syria, etc.
[var. of SYCOMORE]
syce n. (also sice) Anglo-Ind. a groom. [Hind. f. Arab. sa' is,
sayis]
sycomore n. Bot. = SYCAMORE 3. [ME f. OF sic(h)amor f. L sycomorus f.
Gk sukomoros f. sukon fig + moron mulberry]
syconium n. (pl. syconia) Bot. a fleshy hollow receptacle developing
into a multiple fruit as in the fig. [mod.L f. Gk sukon fig]
sycophant n. a servile flatterer; a toady. ЬЬsycophancy n. sycophantic
adj. sycophantically adv. [F sycophante or L sycophanta f. Gk
sukophantes informer f. sukon fig + phaino show: the reason for
the name is uncert., and association with informing against the
illegal exportation of figs from ancient Athens (recorded by
Plutarch) cannot be substantiated]
sycosis n. a skin-disease of the bearded part of the face with
inflammation of the hair-follicles. [mod.L f. Gk sukosis f.
sukon fig: orig. of a figlike ulcer]
syenite n. a grey crystalline rock of feldspar and hornblende with or
without quartz. ЬЬsyenitic adj. [F sy‚nite f. L Syenites
(lapis) (stone) of Syene in Egypt]
syl- prefix assim. form of SYN- before l.
syllabary n. (pl. -ies) a list of characters representing syllables and
(in some languages or stages of writing) serving the purpose of
an alphabet. [mod.L syllabarium (as SYLLABLE)]
syllabi pl. of SYLLABUS.
syllabic adj. 1 of, relating to, or based on syllables. 2 Prosody based
on the number of syllables. 3 (of a symbol) representing a
whole syllable. 4 articulated in syllables. ЬЬsyllabically
adv. syllabicity n. [F syllabique or LL syllabicus f. Gk
sullabikos (as SYLLABLE)]
syllabication
n. (also syllabification) () division into or articulation by
syllables. ЬЬsyllabify v.tr. (-ies, -ied). [med.L
syllabicatio f. syllabicare f. L syllaba: see SYLLABLE]
syllabize v.tr. (also -ise) divide into or articulate by syllables.
[med.L syllabizare f. Gk sullabizo (as SYLLABLE)]
syllable n. & v. --n. 1 a unit of pronunciation uttered without
interruption, forming the whole or a part of a word and usu.
having one vowel sound often with a consonant or consonants
before or after: there are two syllables in water and three in
inferno. 2 a character or characters representing a syllable.
3 (usu. with neg.) the least amount of speech or writing (did
not utter a syllable). --v.tr. pronounce by syllables;
articulate distinctly. Ьin words of one syllable expressed
plainly or bluntly. ЬЬsyllabled adj. (also in comb.). [ME f.
AF sillable f. OF sillabe f. L syllaba f. Gk sullabe (as SYN-,
lambano take)]
syllabub n. (also sillabub) a dessert made of cream or milk flavoured,
sweetened, and whipped to thicken it. [16th c.: orig. unkn.]
syllabus n. (pl. syllabuses or syllabi) 1 a the programme or outline of
a course of study, teaching, etc. b a statement of the
requirements for a particular examination. 2 RC Ch. a summary
of points decided by papal decree regarding heretical doctrines
or practices. [mod.L, orig. a misreading of L sittybas accus.
pl. of sittyba f. Gk sittuba title-slip or label]
syllepsis n. (pl. syllepses) a figure of speech in which a word is
applied to two others in different senses (e.g. caught the
train and a bad cold) or to two others of which it grammatically
suits one only (e.g. neither they nor it is working) (cf.
ZEUGMA). ЬЬsylleptic adj. sylleptically adv. [LL f. Gk
sullepsis taking together f. sullambano: see SYLLABLE]
syllogism n. 1 a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn from
two given or assumed propositions (premisses): a common or
middle term is present in the two premisses but not in the
conclusion, which may be invalid (e.g. all trains are long;
some buses are long; therefore some buses are trains: the common
term is long). 2 deductive reasoning as distinct from
induction. ЬЬsyllogistic adj. syllogistically adv. [ME f. OF
silogisme or L syllogismus f. Gk sullogismos f. sullogizomai
(as SYN-, logizomai to reason f. logos reason)]
syllogize v. (also -ise) 1 intr. use syllogisms. 2 tr. put (facts or an
argument) in the form of syllogism. [ME f. OF sillogiser or LL
syllogizare f. Gk sullogizomai (as SYLLOGISM)]
sylph n. 1 an elemental spirit of the air. 2 a slender graceful
woman or girl. 3 any humming-bird of the genus Aglaiocercus
with a long forked tail. ЬЬsylphlike adj. [mod.L sylphes, G
Sylphen (pl.), perh. based on L sylvestris of the woods + nympha
nymph]
sylva n. (also silva) (pl. sylvae or sylvas) 1 the trees of a
region, epoch, or environment. 2 a treatise on or a list of
such trees. [L silva a wood]
sylvan adj. (also silvan) 1 a of the woods. b having woods; wooded.
2 rural. [F sylvain (obs. silvain) or L Silvanus woodland
deity f. silva a wood]
sylviculture
var. of SILVICULTURE.
sym- prefix assim. form of SYN- before b, m, p.
symbiont n. an organism living in symbiosis. [Gk sumbion -ountos part.
of sumbioo live together (as SYMBIOSIS)]
symbiosis n. (pl. symbioses) 1 a an interaction between two different
organisms living in close physical association, usu. to the
advantage of both (cf. ANTIBIOSIS). b an instance of this. 2
a a mutually advantageous association or relationship between
persons. b an instance of this. ЬЬsymbiotic adj.
symbiotically adv. [mod.L f. Gk sumbiosis a living together f.
sumbioo live together, sumbios companion (as SYN-, bios life)]
symbol n. & v. --n. 1 a thing conventionally regarded as typifying,
representing, or recalling something, esp. an idea or quality
(white is a symbol of purity). 2 a mark or character taken as
the conventional sign of some object, idea, function, or
process, e.g. the letters standing for the chemical elements or
the characters in musical notation. --v.tr. (symbolled,
symbolling; US symboled, symboling) symbolize. ЬЬsymbology n.
[ME f. L symbolum f. Gk sumbolon mark, token (as SYN-, ballo
throw)]
symbolic adj. (also symbolical) 1 of or serving as a symbol. 2
involving the use of symbols or symbolism. Ьsymbolic logic the
use of symbols to denote propositions etc. in order to assist
reasoning. ЬЬsymbolically adv. [F symbolique or LL symbolicus
f. Gk sumbolikos]
symbolism n. 1 a the use of symbols to represent ideas. b symbols
collectively. 2 an artistic and poetic movement or style using
symbols and indirect suggestion to express ideas, emotions, etc.
ЬЬsymbolist n. symbolistic adj.
symbolize v.tr. (also -ise) 1 be a symbol of. 2 represent by means of
symbols. ЬЬsymbolization n. [F symboliser f. symbole SYMBOL]
symmetry n. (pl. -ies) 1 a correct proportion of the parts of a thing;
balance, harmony. b beauty resulting from this. 2 a a
structure that allows an object to be divided into parts of an
equal shape and size and similar position to the point or line
or plane of division. b the possession of such a structure. c
approximation to such a structure. 3 the repetition of exactly
similar parts facing each other or a centre. 4 Bot. the
possession by a flower of sepals and petals and stamens and
pistils in the same number or multiples of the same number.
ЬЬsymmetric adj. symmetrical adj. symmetrically adv.
symmetrize v.tr. (also -ise). [obs. F symm‚trie or L summetria
f. Gk (as SYN-, metron measure)]
sympathectomy
n. (pl. -ies) the surgical removal of a sympathetic ganglion
etc.
sympathetic
adj. & n. --adj. 1 of, showing, or expressing sympathy. 2 due
to sympathy. 3 likeable or capable of evoking sympathy. 4 (of
a person) friendly and cooperative. 5 (foll. by to) inclined to
favour (a proposal etc.) (was most sympathetic to the idea). 6
(of a landscape etc.) that touches the feelings by association
etc. 7 (of a pain etc.) caused by a pain or injury to someone
else or in another part of the body. 8 (of a sound, resonance,
or string) sounding by a vibration communicated from another
vibrating object. 9 a designating the part of the nervous
system consisting of nerves leaving the thoracic and lumbar
regions of the spinal cord and connecting with the nerve cells
in or near the viscera (see PARASYMPATHETIC). b (of a nerve or
ganglion) belonging to this system. --n. 1 a sympathetic
nerve. 2 the sympathetic system. Ьsympathetic magic a type of
magic that seeks to achieve an effect by performing an
associated action or using an associated thing.
ЬЬsympathetically adv. [SYMPATHY, after pathetic]
sympathize
v.intr. (also -ise) (often foll. by with) 1 feel or express
sympathy; share a feeling or opinion. 2 agree with a sentiment
or opinion. ЬЬsympathizer n. [F sympathiser (as SYMPATHY)]
sympathy n. (pl. -ies) 1 a the state of being simultaneously affected
with the same feeling as another. b the capacity for this. 2
(often foll. by with) a the act of sharing or tendency to share
(with a person etc.) in an emotion or sensation or condition of
another person or thing. b (in sing. or pl.) compassion or
commiseration; condolences. 3 (often foll. by for) a favourable
attitude; approval. 4 (in sing. or pl.; often foll. by with)
agreement (with a person etc.) in opinion or desire. 5
(attrib.) in support of another cause (sympathy strike). Ьin
sympathy (often foll. by with) 1 having or showing or resulting
from sympathy (with another). 2 by way of sympathetic action
(working to rule in sympathy). [L sympathia f. Gk sumpatheia
(as SYN-, pathes f. pathos feeling)]
sympetalous
adj. Bot. having the petals united.
symphonic adj. (of music) relating to or having the form or character of
a symphony. Ьsymphonic poem an extended orchestral piece, usu.
in one movement, on a descriptive or rhapsodic theme.
ЬЬsymphonically adv.
symphonist
n. a composer of symphonies.
symphony n. (pl. -ies) 1 an elaborate composition usu. for full
orchestra, and in several movements with one or more in sonata
form. 2 an interlude for orchestra alone in a large-scale vocal
work. 3 = symphony orchestra. Ьsymphony orchestra a large
orchestra suitable for playing symphonies etc. [ME, = harmony
of sound, f. OF symphonie f. L symphonia f. Gk sumphonia (as
SYN-, - phonos f. phone sound)]
symphyllous
adj. Bot. having the leaves united. [SYN- + Gk phullon leaf]
symphysis n. (pl. symphyses) 1 the process of growing together. 2 a a
union between two bones esp. in the median plane of the body. b
the place or line of this. ЬЬsymphyseal adj. symphysial adj.
[mod.L f. Gk sumphusis (as SYN-, phusis growth)]
sympodium n. (pl. sympodia) Bot. the apparent main axis or stem of a
vine etc., made up of successive secondary axes. ЬЬsympodial
adj. [mod.L (as SYN-, Gk pous podos foot)]
symposium n. (pl. symposia) 1 a a conference or meeting to discuss a
particular subject. b a collection of essays or papers for this
purpose. 2 a philosophical or other friendly discussion. 3 a
drinking-party, esp. of the ancient Greeks with conversation
etc. after a banquet. [L f. Gk sumposion in sense 3 (as SYN-, -
potes drinker)]
symptom n. 1 Med. a change in the physical or mental condition of a
person, regarded as evidence of a disease (cf. SIGN 5). 2 a
sign of the existence of something. [ME synthoma f. med.L
sinthoma, & f. LL symptoma f. Gk sumptoma -atos chance, symptom,
f. sumpipto happen (as SYN-, pipto fall)]
symptomatic
adj. serving as a symptom. ЬЬsymptomatically adv.
symptomatology
n. the branch of medicine concerned with the study and
interpretation of symptoms.
syn- prefix with, together, alike. [from or after Gk sun- f. sun
with]
synaeresis
n. (US syneresis) (pl. synaereses) the contraction of two
vowels into a diphthong or single vowel. [LL f. Gk sunairesis
(as SYN-, hairesis f. haireo take)]
synaesthesia
n. (US synesthesia) 1 Psychol. the production of a mental
sense-impression relating to one sense by the stimulation of
another sense. 2 a sensation produced in a part of the body by
stimulation of another part. ЬЬsynaesthetic adj. [mod.L f.
SYN- after anaesthesia]
synagogue n. 1 the building where a Jewish assembly or congregation meets
for religious observance and instruction. 2 the assembly
itself. ЬЬsynagogal adj. synagogical adj. [ME f. OF sinagoge
f. LL synagoga f. Gk sunagoge meeting (as SYN-, ago bring)]
synallagmatic
adj. (of a treaty or contract) imposing reciprocal obligations.
[SYN- + Gk allasso exchange]
synapse n. Anat. a junction of two nerve-cells. [Gk synapsis (as
SYN-, hapsis f. hapto join)]
synapsis n. (pl. synapses) 1 Anat. = SYNAPSE. 2 Biol. the fusion of
chromosome-pairs at the start of meiosis. ЬЬsynaptic adj.
synaptically adv.
synarthrosis
n. (pl. synarthroses) Anat. an immovably fixed bone-joint,
e.g. the sutures of the skull. [SYN- + Gk arthrosis jointing f.
arthron joint]
sync n. & v. (also synch) colloq. --n. synchronization. --v.tr. &
intr. synchronize. Ьin (or out of) sync (often foll. by with)
according or agreeing well (or badly). [abbr.]
syncarp n. a compound fruit from a flower with several carpels, e.g. a
blackberry. [SYN- + Gk karpos fruit]
syncarpous
adj. (of a flower or fruit) having the carpels united (opp.
APOCARPOUS). [SYN- + Gk karpos fruit]
synch var. of SYNC.
synchondrosis
n. (pl. synchondroses) Anat. an almost immovable bone-joint
bound by a layer of cartilage, as in the spinal vertebrae.
[SYN- + Gk khondros cartilage]
synchro- comb. form synchronized, synchronous.
synchrocyclotron
n. a cyclotron able to achieve higher energies by decreasing
the frequency of the accelerating electric field as the
particles increase in energy and mass.
synchromesh
n. & adj. --n. a system of gear-changing, esp. in motor
vehicles, in which the driving and driven gearwheels are made to
revolve at the same speed during engagement by means of a set of
friction clutches, thereby easing the change. --adj. relating
to or using this system. [abbr. of synchronized mesh]
synchronic
adj. describing a subject (esp. a language) as it exists at one
point in time (opp. DIACHRONIC). ЬЬsynchronically adv. [LL
synchronus: see SYNCHRONOUS]
synchronism
n. 1 = SYNCHRONY. 2 the process of synchronizing sound and
picture in cinematography, television, etc. ЬЬsynchronistic
adj. synchronistically adv. [Gk sugkhronismos (as
SYNCHRONOUS)]
synchronize
v. (also -ise) 1 intr. (often foll. by with) occur at the same
time; be simultaneous. 2 tr. cause to occur at the same time.
3 tr. carry out the synchronism of (a film). 4 tr. ascertain or
set forth the correspondence in the date of (events). 5 a tr.
cause (clocks etc.) to show a standard or uniform time. b intr.
(of clocks etc.) be synchronized. Ьsynchronized swimming a form
of swimming in which participants make coordinated leg and arm
movements in time to music. ЬЬsynchronization n. synchronizer
n.
synchronous
adj. (often foll. by with) existing or occurring at the same
time. Ьsynchronous motor Electr. a motor having a speed
exactly proportional to the current frequency. ЬЬsynchronously
adv. [LL synchronus f. Gk sugkhronos (as SYN-, khronos time)]
synchrony n. 1 the state of being synchronic or synchronous. 2 the
treatment of events etc. as being synchronous. [Gk sugkhronos:
see SYNCHRONOUS]
synchrotron
n. Physics a cyclotron in which the magnetic field strength
increases with the energy of the particles to keep their orbital
radius constant.
syncline n. a rock-bed forming a trough. ЬЬsynclinal adj. [synclinal
(as SYN-, Gk klino lean)]
syncopate v.tr. 1 Mus. displace the beats or accents in (a passage) so
that strong beats become weak and vice versa. 2 shorten (a
word) by dropping interior sounds or letters, as symbology for
symbolology, Gloster for Gloucester. ЬЬsyncopation n.
syncopator n. [LL syncopare swoon (as SYNCOPE)]
syncope n. 1 Gram. the omission of interior sounds or letters in a word
(see SYNCOPATE 2). 2 Med. a temporary loss of consciousness
caused by a fall in blood pressure. ЬЬsyncopal adj. [ME f. LL
syncope f. Gk sugkope (as SYN-, kopto strike, cut off)]
syncretism
n. 1 Philos. & Theol. the process or an instance of
syncretizing (see SYNCRETIZE). 2 Philol. the merging of
different inflectional varieties in the development of a
language. ЬЬsyncretic adj. syncretist n. syncretistic adj.
[mod.L syncretismus f. Gk sugkretismos f. sugkretizo (of two
parties) combine against a third f. kres Cretan (orig. of
ancient Cretan communities)]
syncretize
v.tr. (also -ise) Philos. & Theol. attempt, esp.
inconsistently, to unify or reconcile differing schools of
thought.
syncytium n. (pl. syncytia) Biol. a mass of cytoplasm with several
nuclei, not divided into separate cells. ЬЬsyncytial adj.
[formed as SYN- + -CYTE + -IUM]
syndactyl adj. (of an animal) having digits united as in webbed feet etc.
ЬЬsyndactylism n. syndactylous adj.
syndesis n. (pl. syndeses) Biol. = SYNAPSIS 2. [mod.L f. Gk syndesis
binding together f. sundeo bind together]
syndesmosis
n. the union and articulation of bones by means of ligaments.
[mod.L f. Gk sundesmos binding, fastening + -OSIS]
syndetic adj. Gram. of or using conjunctions. [Gk sundetikos (as
SYNDESIS)]
syndic n. 1 a government official in various countries. 2 Brit. a
business agent of certain universities and corporations, esp.
(at Cambridge University) a member of a committee of the senate.
ЬЬsyndical adj. [F f. LL syndicus f. Gk sundikos (as SYN-, -
dikos f. dike justice)]
syndicalism
n. hist. a movement for transferring the ownership and control
of the means of production and distribution to workers' unions.
ЬЬsyndicalist n. [F syndicalisme f. syndical (as SYNDIC)]
syndicate n. & v. --n. 1 a combination of individuals or commercial
firms to promote some common interest. 2 an association or
agency supplying material simultaneously to a number of
newspapers or periodicals. 3 a group of people who combine to
buy or rent property, gamble, organize crime, etc. 4 a
committee of syndics. --v.tr. 1 form into a syndicate. 2
publish (material) through a syndicate. ЬЬsyndication n. [F
syndicat f. med.L syndicatus f. LL syndicus: see SYNDIC]
syndrome n. 1 a group of concurrent symptoms of a disease. 2 a
characteristic combination of opinions, emotions, behaviour,
etc. ЬЬsyndromic adj. [mod.L f. Gk sundrome (as SYN-, drome f.
dramein to run)]
syne adv., conj., & prep. Sc. since. [contr. f. ME sithen SINCE]
synecdoche
n. a figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the
whole or vice versa (e.g. new faces at the meeting; England
lost by six wickets). ЬЬsynecdochic adj. [ME f. L f. Gk
sunekdokhe (as SYN-, ekdokhe f. ekdekhomai take up)]
synecology
n. the ecological study of plant or animal communities.
ЬЬsynecological adj. synecologist n.
syneresis US var. of SYNAERESIS.
synergism n. (also synergy) the combined effect of drugs, organs, etc.,
that exceeds the sum of their individual effects. ЬЬsynergetic
adj. synergic adj. synergistic adj. synergistically adv. [Gk
sunergos working together (as SYN-, ergon work)]
synergist n. a medicine or a bodily organ (e.g. a muscle) that cooperates
with another or others.
synesthesia
US var. of SYNAESTHESIA.
syngamy n. Biol. the fusion of gametes or nuclei in reproduction.
ЬЬsyngamous adj. [SYN- + Gk gamos marriage]
syngenesis
n. sexual reproduction from combined male and female elements.
synod n. 1 a Church council attended by delegated clergy and
sometimes laity (see also General Synod). 2 a Presbyterian
ecclesiastical court above the presbyteries and subject to the
General Assembly. 3 any meeting for debate. [ME f. LL synodus
f. Gk sunodos meeting (as SYN-, hodos way)]
synodic adj. Astron. relating to or involving the conjunction of
stars, planets, etc. Ьsynodic period the time between the
successive conjunctions of a planet with the sun. [LL synodicus
f. Gk sunodikos (as SYNOD)]
synodical adj. 1 (also synodal) of, relating to, or constituted as a
synod. 2 = SYNODIC.
synoecious
adj. Bot. having male and female organs in the same flower or
receptacle. [SYN- after dioecious etc.]
synonym n. 1 a word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as
another in the same language (e.g. shut and close). 2 a word
denoting the same thing as another but suitable to a different
context (e.g. serpent for snake, Hellene for Greek) or
containing a different emphasis (e.g. blindworm for slow-worm).
3 a word equivalent to another in some but not all senses (e.g.
ship and vessel). ЬЬsynonymic adj. synonymity n. [ME f. L
synonymum f. Gk sunonumon neut. of sunonumos (as SYN-, onoma
name): cf. ANONYMOUS]
synonymous
adj. (often foll. by with) 1 having the same meaning; being a
synonym (of). 2 (of a name, idea, etc.) suggestive of or
associated with another (excessive drinking regarded as
synonymous with violence). ЬЬsynonymously adv. synonymousness
n.
synonymy n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state of being synonymous. 2 the
collocation of synonyms for emphasis (e.g. in any shape or
form). 3 a a system or collection of synonyms. b a treatise on
synonyms. [LL synonymia f. Gk sunonumia (as SYNONYM)]
synopsis n. (pl. synopses) 1 a summary or outline. 2 a brief general
survey. ЬЬsynopsize v.tr. (also -ise). [LL f. Gk (as SYN-,
opsis seeing)]
synoptic adj. & n. --adj. 1 of, forming, or giving a synopsis. 2
taking or affording a comprehensive mental view. 3 of the
Synoptic Gospels. 4 giving a general view of weather
conditions. --n. 1 a Synoptic Gospel. 2 the writer of a
Synoptic Gospel. ЬSynoptic Gospels the Gospels of Matthew,
Mark, and Luke, describing events from a similar point of view.
ЬЬsynoptical adj. synoptically adv. [Gk sunoptikos (as
SYNOPSIS)]
synoptist n. the writer of a Synoptic Gospel.
synostosis
n. the joining of bones by ankylosis etc. [SYN- + Gk osteon
bone + -OSIS]
synovia n. Physiol. a viscous fluid lubricating joints and tendon
sheaths. Ьsynovial membrane a dense membrane of connective
tissue secreting synovia. ЬЬsynovial adj. [mod.L, formed prob.
arbitrarily by Paracelsus]
synovitis n. inflammation of the synovial membrane.
syntactic adj. of or according to syntax. ЬЬsyntactical adj.
syntactically adv. [Gk suntaktikos (as SYNTAX)]
syntagma n. (pl. syntagmas or syntagmata) 1 a word or phrase forming a
syntactic unit. 2 a systematic collection of statements.
ЬЬsyntagmatic adj. syntagmic adj. [LL f. Gk suntagma (as
SYNTAX)]
syntax n. 1 the grammatical arrangement of words, showing their
connection and relation. 2 a set of rules for or an analysis of
this. [F syntaxe or LL syntaxis f. Gk suntaxis (as SYN-, taxis
f. tasso arrange)]
synth n. colloq. = SYNTHESIZER.
synthesis n. (pl. syntheses) 1 the process or result of building up
separate elements, esp. ideas, into a connected whole, esp. into
a theory or system. 2 a combination or composition. 3 Chem.
the artificial production of compounds from their constituents
as distinct from extraction from plants etc. 4 Gram. a the
process of making compound and derivative words. b the tendency
in a language to use inflected forms rather than groups of
words, prepositions, etc. 5 the joining of divided parts in
surgery. ЬЬsynthesist n. [L f. Gk sunthesis (as SYN-, THESIS)]
synthesize
v.tr. (also synthetize, -ise) 1 make a synthesis of. 2 combine
into a coherent whole.
synthesizer
n. an electronic musical instrument, esp. operated by a
keyboard, producing a wide variety of sounds by generating and
combining signals of different frequencies.
synthetic adj. & n. --adj. 1 made by chemical synthesis, esp. to imitate
a natural product (synthetic rubber). 2 (of emotions etc.)
affected, insincere. 3 Logic (of a proposition) having truth or
falsity determinable by recourse to experience (cf. ANALYTIC
3). 4 Philol. using combinations of simple words or elements in
compounded or complex words (cf. ANALYTICAL). --n. Chem. a
synthetic substance. Ьsynthetic resin Chem. see RESIN n. 2.
ЬЬsynthetical adj. synthetically adv. [F synth‚tique or mod.L
syntheticus f. Gk sunthetikos f. sunthetos f. suntithemi (as
SYN-, tithemi put)]
syphilis n. a contagious venereal disease progressing from infection of
the genitals via the skin and mucous membrane to the bones,
muscles, and brain. ЬЬsyphilitic adj. syphilize v.tr. (also
-ise). syphiloid adj. [mod.L f. title (Syphilis, sive Morbus
Gallicus) of a Latin poem (1530), f. Syphilus, a character in
it, the supposed first sufferer from the disease]
syphon var. of SIPHON.
Syriac n. & adj. --n. the language of ancient Syria, western Aramaic.
--adj. in or relating to this language. [L Syriacus f. Gk
Suriakos f. Suria Syria]
Syrian n. & adj. --n. 1 a native or national of the modern State of
Syria in the Middle East; a person of Syrian descent. 2 a
native or inhabitant of the region of Syria in antiquity or
later. --adj. of or relating to the region or State of Syria.
syringa n. Bot. 1 = mock orange. 2 any plant of the genus Syringa,
esp. the lilac. [mod.L, formed as SYRINX (with ref. to the use
of its stems as pipe-stems)]
syringe n. & v. --n. 1 Med. a a tube with a nozzle and piston or bulb
for sucking in and ejecting liquid in a fine stream, used in
surgery. b (in full hypodermic syringe) a similar device with a
hollow needle for insertion under the skin. 2 any similar
device used in gardening, cooking, etc. --v.tr. sluice or spray
(the ear, a plant, etc.) with a syringe. [ME f. med.L syringa
(as SYRINX)]
syrinx n. (pl. syrinxes or syringes) 1 a set of pan-pipes. 2
Archaeol. a narrow gallery cut in rock in an ancient Egyptian
tomb. 3 the lower larynx or song-organ of birds. ЬЬsyringeal
adj. [L syrinx -ngis f. Gk surigx suriggos pipe, channel]
Syro- comb. form Syrian; Syrian and (Syro-Phoenician). [Gk Suro- f.
Suros a Syrian]
syrup n. (US sirup) 1 a a sweet sauce made by dissolving sugar in
boiling water, often used for preserving fruit etc. b a similar
sauce of a specified flavour as a drink, medicine, etc.
(rose-hip syrup). 2 condensed sugar-cane juice; part of this
remaining uncrystallized at various stages of refining;
molasses, treacle. 3 excessive sweetness of style or manner.
ЬЬsyrupy adj. [ME f. OF sirop or med.L siropus f. Arab. sarab
beverage: cf. SHERBET, SHRUB(2)]
syssarcosis
n. (pl. syssarcoses) Anat. a connection between bones formed
by intervening muscle. [mod.L f. Gk sussarkosis (as SYN-, sarx,
sarkos flesh)]
systaltic adj. (esp. of the heart) contracting and dilating rhythmically;
pulsatory (cf. SYSTOLE, DIASTOLE). [LL systalticus f. Gk
sustaltikos (as SYN-, staltos f. stello put)]
system n. 1 a complex whole; a set of connected things or parts; an
organized body of material or immaterial things. 2 a set of
devices (e.g. pulleys) functioning together. 3 Physiol. a a
set of organs in the body with a common structure or function
(the digestive system). b the human or animal body as a whole.
4 a method; considered principles of procedure or
classification. b classification. 5 orderliness. 6 a a body
of theory or practice relating to or prescribing a particular
form of government, religion, etc. b (prec. by the) the
prevailing political or social order, esp. regarded as
oppressive and intransigent. 7 a method of choosing one's
procedure in gambling etc. 8 Computing a group of related
hardware units or programs or both, esp. when dedicated to a
single application. 9 one of seven general types of crystal
structure. 10 a major group of geological strata (the Devonian
system). 11 Physics a group of associated bodies moving under
mutual gravitation etc. 12 Mus. the braced staves of a score.
Ьget a thing out of one's system colloq. be rid of a
preoccupation or anxiety. systems analysis the analysis of a
complex process or operation in order to improve its efficiency,
esp. by applying a computer system. ЬЬsystemless adj. [F
systЉme or LL systema f. Gk sustema -atos (as SYN-, histemi set
up)]
systematic
adj. 1 methodical; done or conceived according to a plan or
system. 2 regular, deliberate (a systematic liar). Ьsystematic
theology a form of theology in which the aim is to arrange
religious truths in a self-consistent whole. ЬЬsystematically
adv. systematism n. systematist n. [F syst‚matique f. LL
systematicus f. late Gk sustematikos (as SYSTEM)]
systematics
n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) the study or a system of
classification; taxonomy.
systematize
v.tr. (also -ise) 1 make systematic. 2 devise a system for.
ЬЬsystematization n. systematizer n.
systemic adj. 1 Physiol. a of or concerning the whole body, not
confined to a particular part (systemic infection). b (of blood
circulation) other than pulmonary. 2 Hort. (of an insecticide,
fungicide, etc.) entering the plant via the roots or shoots and
passing through the tissues. ЬЬsystemically adv. [irreg. f.
SYSTEM]
systemize v.tr. = SYSTEMATIZE. ЬЬsystemization n. systemizer n.
systole n. Physiol. the contraction of the heart, when blood is pumped
into the arteries (cf. DIASTOLE). ЬЬsystolic adj. [LL f. Gk
sustole f. sustello contract (as SYSTALTIC)]
syzygy n. (pl. -ies) 1 Astron. conjunction or opposition, esp. of the
moon with the sun. 2 a pair of connected or correlated things.
[LL syzygia f. Gk suzugia f. suzugos yoked, paired (as SYN-,
zugon yoke)]