NTC's Dictionary

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NTC's
Dictionary
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EASILY
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WORDS
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With Complete Examples of Correct Usage

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Deborah K. Williams
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� National Textbook Company

Nle a division of NTC Publishing Gtvup • Lmcolnwood, IUinOis USA
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© 1995 National Textbook Company, a division of NTC Pubiisiung Group,

4255 West Touhy Avenue, Lincolnwood (Clucago), niinois, 60646-1975 U.S.A.
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All rights reserved. Except for use in a review, the reproduction or ulIlIzauon
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of tJus work in any form or by any electroruc, mechanical, or other means, now
known or hereafter invented, including scanning, photocopying, and recording,
and in any informallon storage and retrieval system, is forbidden without the
written permIssion of the publisher.
Manufactured in the United States of America.
4567R90VP987654321
Contents
62
Introduction
37
Vll
Acknowledgments
38
IX
Pronunciation Guide Xl
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Dictionary 1-193
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Introduction
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English is generously endowed with several types of easily confused
37
words. Some of these words are homophones (homo 'same, ' phone
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' sound')-words that are pronounced alike but are different in
spelling, meaning, or both. Examples of common homophones
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include sail and sale; their, there, and they 're; and knight and night.
01
Other easily confused words are troublesome because of the gram
matical rules that govern their use. Unless one knows the rules that
03
dictate which word should be used in a particular context, it is easy
to misuse such pairs as can and may; among and between; and shall
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and will. Finally, some words are easily confused simply because
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they are easy to mix up. Such word pairs as infer and imply;
disinterested and uninterested; and flounder and founder are often
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used incorrectly because they are similar in meaning and form yet
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have subtle differences in definition.

This book is an easy-to-use reference guide that will help the
up
user understand confusing words and their usage and to then choose
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the correct spelling or meaning of a word for any given situation.

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The dictionary consists of word groups arranged alphabetically by

the first word of each set. All sets of words are alphabetized inter
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nally as well. For example, aisle-I'll-isle is the full entry preceding

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all-awl . Cross-referencing permits the user to locate every word

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quickly and easily. Each word is followed by a pronunciation key in

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brackets, a concise definition, and a sentence example demonstrating

how the word is used in everyday English. Hence, this dictionary
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enables the reader not only to find sets of easily confused words, but
also to discover how the words are pronounced, what they mean, and
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how to use them in the written or spoken language.

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This dictionary is designed to help speakers and writers master

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the confusing words in the English language. It will also pique (or is
it peak ?) interest in learning more about these pesky problem words.
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Acknowledgments
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I wish to thank all of my students-past, present, and future-not
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only for their contributions to this book, but also for making teaching
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the rewarding profession that it is.
I am also grateful to Jeanne Breaugh, Trudy Carpenter, John
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McAlear, and Linda Peckham for the support, enthusiasm , and
01
expertise they offered me during this proj ect.
A special thanks to Dr. Larry Standridge who piqued my interest
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in adult education and gave me yet another homophone.
And finally, I will always be grateful to my family for allowing me
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to make a dream come true.
Deborah K. Williams us
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Pronunciation Guide
Each word in the dictionary is followed by a phonetic transcription

in the symbols of the International Phonetic Alphabet (lPA). The
style of pronunciation reflected here is conversational or informal
and is intended to help users recognize the word. The transcriptions
distinguish between [a] and [J] and between [w] and [M] even though
not all Americans do so. In strict IPA fashion, [j] rather than the [y]
substitute is used for the initial sound in "yellow." The most promi
nent syllable in a multisyllabic word is preceded by a ['] .
The following chart shows the American English values for each
of the IPA symbols used in the phonetic transcriptions. To use the
chart, first find the large phonetic symbol whose value you want to
determine. The three, simple English words to the right of the
symbol contain examples of the sound for which the phonetic symbol
stands. The letters in boldface type indicate where the sound in
question is found in the English word.
xi
Pronunciation Guide
{ stop { bird { bring { food

[a] [ 3'-] [ IJ] [u]
to p turtle thing blue
{ sat { feel { coat { put

[ re] [0 [0] [u]
tr a k
c if wrote look
{ cow { get { spoil { save

[au] [ g] [01] [v]
on w frog boy van
{ bite { hat { caught { well

[01] [h] [J] [w]
my who ay wn wi nd
{ beet { feet { tip { wheel

[b] [i] [p] L",,]
bubble el ak pat while
{ dead { bit { rat { fuzzy

[d] [1] [r] [z]
bo dy hiss berry zoo
{ that { yellow { sun { pleasure

[6]
those m you
[s]
fast
[3]
treasure
{ jail { can { fish { 'water

[d3] [k] m [']
judge keep sure ho ' tel
{ date { lawn { top

[e] [I] [t]
sail yellow pot
{ get { family { cheese

[E] [m] [tJ]
se t slam pitcher
{ but { new { thin

[ ;:,] [n] [ 8]
nut funny faith
xii
NTC's
Dictionary
of
EASILY
CONFUSED
WORDS
a while - awhile
• a while [�'MOIl] a short time. D It might be a while before he
returns from his errand.
• awhile [�MOII] for a short time. D We will rest awhile before
continuing our hike.
acts-axe
•acts [rekts] act
the plural of 'a deed or an action.' D In the
military, acts of heroism are recognized by the presentation of
ribbons and medals.
•acts [rekts] act
the plural of 'one of the main divisions of a
D Each of the play's three acts ended
musical comedy or a play.'
with a dimming of the stage lights.
•acts [rekts] act
the present tense, third person singular of 'to
D Gregory acts quite differently at school than he does
behave.'
at home.
• ax(e) [reks] a hand-held chopping tool, similar to a hatchet.
D One swing of the axe splintered the logs.
•ax(e) [reks] (An
to ask something of someone. older, now dia
lect, form ofask . Not considered standard English. Spelling
may vary.) D I want to axe you a question. D Did you axe her
yet ?
ad- add
• ad [red] an abbreviation of advertisement 'a notice of some
type, usually published or broadcast.' D The ad for a part-time
farmhand attracted several interested people.
• add [red] to increase something in amount, number, or size.
D Each year, I add several stamps to my collection. D As a
child, I found it easier to add than to subtract.
1
add
add See the main entry beginning with ad.
addition- edition
•addition [;)'dIJn] a room or rooms built onto a house or other
D
building. Mr. Smith is building an addition on the back of
his house.
•addition [;)'dIJn] an increase. D The addition of two clerks in
the office will lighten everyone 's workload.
•edition [;)'dIJn] a version of a published book or other docu
ment. D A later edition of a textbook usually contains some
changes to the original. D The morning edition ofthe newspaper
reaches the newsstands very early in the day.
adds- adze
adds [redz]
• the present tense, third person singular of add
'to increase the number, size, or amount of something.' Tom 0
usually adds too much salt to the soup.
• adze [redz] a sharp cutting tool with a curved blade. D An
adze is one of the tools used by a ship 's carpenter.
adherence - adherents
adherence [;)d'hE3'-;)nts]
• a steadfast attachment to some
D Joe 's strict adherence to high moral principles made
thing.
him an excellent role model.
adherents [;)d'hE3'-;)nts]
• adherent
the plural of 'a person who
D The
follows or believes a certain doctrine, person, or plan.'
adherents of the religious leader numbered in the tens of
thousands.
adherents See the main entry beginning with adherence.
adze See the main entry beginning with adds.
affect - effect
•affect [;)'fEkt] to have an impression, influence, or effect on
something. D Offers of athletic scholarships could affect Jim 's
decision on which college to attend.
•effect [;)'fEkt, E'fEkt] a result or consequence. 0
Some drugs
have the effect of causing sleepiness.
aid- aide
•aid red] assistance or help.D Several nations sent medical
and financial aid to the war-torn country.
•aide D A
red] a person who acts as a helper or assistant.
general 's personal aide must be completely trustworthy.
aide See the main entry beginning with aid.
2
all- awl
ail- ale
•ail 0 Many townspeople continued to
[el] to be in ill health.
ail long after the plague swept through their village.
•ale 0
[ell an alcoholic beverage brewed from malt and hops.
The members of the wedding party raised their steins filled
with ale and sang in unison.
air-err- heir
air
• [£<3'] theOncompound of various gases and oxygen that we
breathe. 0 hot, still days the air above large cities is often
filled with smog.
• air [£<3'] to broadcast or transmit something. 0 The network
will air the television special on three consecutive evenings.
• air [£<3'] to expose something to the open air. 0 I need to air
the sleeping bags before we use them again.
• air [£<3'] the demeanor or manner of a person. 0He has an
aristocratic air about him.
• err [£<3'] to make a mistake. 0 Sandy did not want to err on
her first day on thejob.
• heir [£<3'] a person who inherits something. 0Charlie is the
heir to his father's dry-cleaning business.
aired- erred
•aired [£<3'd] the past tense and past participle of air 'to
0
broadcast or transmit something.' One of the news channels
aired the conference.
· aired [£<3'd] the past tense and past participle of air 'to
expose 0
something to the open air.' After Susan aired the
house, she closed all of the windows.
· erred [<3'd, £<3'd] the past tense and past participle of err 'to
0
make a mistake.' Our accountant erred on a number of
points when he figured our taxes last year.
aisle -I'll- isle
· aisle [all] a passage or corridor, usually between rows of
seats. 0 The wedding guests stood when the bride appeared
at the head of the aisle.
· I'll[all] the contraction of orI will I shall . 0 "I'll never pass
this exam if I don 't learn these equations, " moaned Jane.
• isle [ad] a small island. 0 The author's dream is to live alone
on a beautiful tropical isle.
ale See the main entry beginning with ail.
all- awl
• all 0
[:)1] the whole of a number or quantity. When making a
3
all ready- already
difficult decision, try to consider all aspects of the problem.

o awl bi] a sharp, pointed tool used to puncture or etch. 0 To
create the fine details in her work, the artist used an awl.
all ready-already
o all ready bi'rf:di] completely prepared. 0 When the runners
were all ready, the starter fired his gun to begin the race.
o already bi'rf:di] previously; beforehand. 0 Volunteer fire
men were already at the scene of the blaze when the police and
ambulances arrived.
all together- altogether
o all together [;:,it;)'g£O<3'] united; gathered. 0 When I had my
fabric all together, I began the tedious task of sewing.
o altogether [';:'it;)g£o<3'] thoroughly; totally.0 We were alto
gether surprised when James showed up uninvited.
all ways-always
oall ways [';:,i'wez] all of the ways. 0 We used a guidebook to
study all ways of traveling across the country.
o always [';:'WIZ] without exception; at all times. 0 "Always
check for traffic before crossing the street, " Aunt Jane reminded
him.
allowed - aloud
oallowed [;)'ioud] the past tense and past participle of allow
0
'to permit someone to do something.' The child was never
allowed to go outside of his fenced yard without one of his
parents.
o aloud [;)'ioud] 0 To help memorize his
[speaking] audibly.
speech, the candidate rehearsed his message aloud in front of
a mirror.
allusion - elusion - illusion
oallusion [;)'iu3n] an indirect reference to someone or some
0 I caught the speaker's allusion to waste in government,
thing.
but the rest of the speech was completely confusing to me.
oelusion [;)'iu3n] an evasion or escape.0 His elusion of the
uncomfortable situation was obvious.
oillusion [I'iu3n] a misleading image; a mistaken assumption.
o The magician is a master of illusion. 0 I was under the
illusion that the doctor was a licensed practitioner, but he was
not.
oillusion [I'iu3n] a fine, filmy transparent fabric. 0 The
model 's gown was made of ivory satin with an overlay of
illusion.
4
ante - anti - auntie
aloud See the main entry beginning with allowed.
already See the main entry beginning with all ready.
altar-alter
• altar [';)Jt3'-] a raised platform used in worship or ritual. 0
Each Sunday, vases of fresh flowers grace the altar of the
church.
• alter [';)Jt3'-]
to change something; to make something differ
ent. 0 Pilots must sometimes alter their flight plans to avoid
severe weather.
alter See the main entry beginning with altar.
altogether See the main entry beginning with all together.
always See the main entry beginning with all ways.
among-between
•among [;)'m;)I]] situated amidst more than two persons or
things; in a grouping of more than two persons or things. 0
Among those three poets, Robert Frost is my favorite.
•between [b.'tMin] adjacent to and separating two persons or
0
things. Mary stood between Tim and Paul.
•between [b.'tMin] involving two persons, groups, or things.
o A fight erupted between the two rival gangs.
ant-aunt
ant [rent]
• a type of tiny insect that lives in a colony and has a
complex social 0
system. An ant crawled across my plate at the
picnic.
• aunt [rent, ant] the sister of one's mother or father; the wife
of one's uncle. (Black English and Boston English. The pro
nunciation [ant] is Southern American English.) 0My aunt is
very proud of the roses in her garden.
ante-anti- auntie
ante ['renti]
• a poker stake made to increase the pot. 0 The
highest allowable ante in John 's poker games is a nickel.
ante ['renti]
• before something; in front of something. (A
0 The anteroom of the convention hall serves as a foyer.
prefIx.) opposed to someone or something. prefIx.)
anti ['renti]
• (A 0
Anti-war activists protested in front of the memorial all week.
auntie ['renti, 'anti]
• aunt
a diminutive of 'the sister of one's
mother or father.' (The pronunciation is Southern
['anti]
American English.) 0 In the movie "The Wizard of Oz, "
Dorothy lived with her Auntie Em and Uncle Henry.
5
anti
anti See the main entry beginning with an te.
any more - anymore

•any more [mi'm;)<3'] some more. 0 Do you have any more
time to donate ?
•anymore [mi'm;)<3'] at the present time; nowadays. (Often
0
viewed incorrect if used in the affirmative.) The girls do
as
not sit next to each other in class anymore.
anymore See the main entry beginning with any more.
appraise - apprise
•appraise [;)'prez] to establish the value of something. We 0
let ajeweler appraise the ruby.
•apprise [of] [;)'prOlz] to inform someone of something. In 0
the future, please apprise me of the problem earlier.
apprise See the main entry beginning with appraise.
arc- ark
•arc [o<3'k] an arch; a curve. 0 One seldom sees a rainbow 's
arc touching the horizon at both ends.
•ark [o<3'k] a type of ship; the ship built by Noah in the biblical
0
story found in Genesis. According to the Bible, Noah led the
animals aboard his ark two by two.
ark See the main entry beginning with arc.
ascent- assent
•ascent [;)'smt] the act of going up. 0
The ascent of a moun
tain is no less dangerous than the descent.
•ascent [;)'smt] the amount of upward slope. 0
The angle of
ascent was extremely steep.
•assent [;)'smt] to agree with someone. 0
Judge Smith will
assent with the other justices on all points except one.
assent See the main entry beginning with ascent.
assistance - assistants
•assistance [;)'slstmts] help; support; aid. 0
Following World
War II, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was a form of
public assistance.
• assistants [;)'slstmts] the plural of assistant 'a helper; an
aide.' 0 Although the office manager has several assistants,
she prefers to do all of the typing herself
assistants See the main entry beginning with assistance.
6
aye - eye - I
ate -eight
•ate eat
[et] the past tense of 'to take in food.' 0 After a very
difficult practice, the rugby team ate ten large pizzas.
•ate eat
[et] the past tense of 'to harrass someone; to bother
someone.'0 His intense feelings ofguilt ate at his conscience.
•eight [et] the number between seven and nine. 0 A stop
sign has eight sides.
aught -ought
aught
• 0 Phil always says aught when he
[Jt] zero; nothing.
reads a zero. 0 John says his telephone number is two-two
three, aught-aught-four-one.
ought
• [Jt] to be obliged to do something.0 "You ought to
decline Bob 's invitation before you accept Bill 's, " Mrs. Smith
cautioned her daughter.
aunt See the main entry beginning with ant.
auntie See the main entry beginning with an te.
awhile See the main entry beginning with a while.
awl See the main entry beginning with all.
axe See the main entry beginning with acts.
aye -eye-I
•aye [01] yes. 0
"Aye, aye, captain, " responded the ship 's first
mate. 0 When the legislative vote was finally taken, the aye
votes outnumbered the nays.
• eye [01] the organ of sight. 0 The sight in her left eye was lost
in an accident.
• eye [01] the center of something. 0 Compared to the turbu
lent outer edges of a hurricane, the eye of the storm is calm.
• I[01] the first person, singular pronoun. 0 "1 can 't find my
favorite teddy bear, " whined the sleepy child.
7
bail-bale
•bail ['bel] the security money paid to ensure the appearance
0
of a prisoner in court. Generally, a higher bail is set for more
serious crimes than for minor ones.
• bail ['bel] to remove water from a vessel. 0 Before we can go
fishing, we must bail out the boat.
• bale ['bel] a large, closely pressed package of material. 0 For
clean, comfortable dog bedding, nothing beats a fresh, dry bale
of straw.
• bale ['bel] evil or sorrow. 0 The poet often composed verses
of intense bale when she was in a dark mood.
bait -bate
• bait [bet] something used to entice or lure an animal or fish.
o Fisherman often use minnows as bait.
•bait [bet] to nag or tease someone. 0 Joan 's brother is for
ever trying to bait her into an argument.
•bate [bet] 0
to decrease the intensity or force of something.
When angered, Fred always tries to bate his temper by counting
to ten.
bald -balled-bawled
·bald [b:>ld] 0 During the winter, the bald
having no hair.
man wore a hat to keep his head warm.
•bald [b:>ld] bare or unadorned. 0 The Christmas tree
appeared bald after we removed all the ornaments.
•bald [b:>ld] 0 Her bald lie was immediately
undisguised.
noted by everyone present.
balled [up] [b:>ld] the into
pastatense ball
•
[up] 'to form something tightlyandbound

pastmass.'
participle of
0 Yards of
8
bare -bear
bailer twine balled up inside thejammed machinery.

o bawled [bJld] the past tense and past participle of bawl
'to cry out or wail loudly.' 0 During the weaning process, the
young calf bawled mournfully for its mother.
bale See the main entry beginning with bail.
balled See the main entry beginning with bald.
band-banned
oband [bcend] something that binds or restricts something. 0
A
tight rubber band kept John 's clock from falling apart.
oband [bcend] a musical group. 0 The rock band has a con
tract to appear nightly at the club for an entire month.
obanned [bcend] the past tense and past participle of ban 'to
0
prohibit something.' Some cities have banned smoking in
public places due to a rising concern over the use and effects of
tobacco products.
banned See the main entry beginning with band.
bard-barred
bard [baa'-d] a composer, singer, or poet who related tales
o
0
of heroes and their heroic deeds. William Shakespeare is
considered a bard of unsurpassed talents in English literature.
barred [baa'-d] the past tense and past participle of bar 'to
o
0
place something off limits.' The public was barred from the
courtroom proceedings for security reasons.
barred [baa'-d] the past tense and past participle of bar 'to
o
0
fasten with a bar so as to obstruct an entrance or exit.' The
doors of the abandoned house were barred and the windows
boarded to prevent trespassing.
bare -bear
obare [bEa'-] 0 Except for
plain; unadorned; lacking covering.
some cacti, the desert landscape was bare.
obare [bEa'-] 0 "1 swear 1 will
to reveal or uncover something.
never bare your secrets to a single soul/" exclaimed his con
fidante.
obear [bEa'-] a large mammal belonging to the family Ursidae.
o A bear may seem like an awkward animal, but it can move
quickly when alarmed.
obear [bEa'-] to carry someone or something; to support some
one or something.0 Mike is unable to bear much weight on his
injured foot.
obear [bEa'-] to endure someone or something. 0 1 cannot bear
to see violent movies.
9
baron-barren
baron-barren
baron ['brea'-;}n]
• a low-ranking nobleman in various Euro
pean countries. 0 The woman hoped to marry a baron in order
to gain some social standing.
• baron ['brea'-;}n] a person of powerful influence in some field.
o The oil baron invested a great deal of money in the project.
• barren ['brea'-;}n] infertile. 0 Because his wife was barren
and could give him no heirs, the king dismissed her.
• barren ['brea'-;}n] bare. 0 The barren environment of the
desert startled Mary, who grew up in the mountains.
baroness -barrenness
baroness ['brea'-;}nEs]
• 0 Con
the wife or widow of a baron.
trary to her husband 's naive nature, the baroness was a shrewd
and cunning woman.
barrenness ['brea'-;}nEs]
• the lack of productivity. 0 John was
fired due to the barrenness of his work.
barred See the main entry beginning with bard.
barren See the main entry beginning with baron.
barrenness See the main entry beginning with baroness.
base -bass
base [bes] the lower part of something; the bottom and
•
0
supporting part of something. Standing at the base of the
Statue of Liberty, one cannot help but be in awe of its immense
stze.
• base [bes] a center of operations. 0 The army set up a tem
porary communications base in the empty warehouse.
• base [on] [bes] to establish a foundation for an idea. 0 I will
base my decision on many factors.
• bass [bes] a musical instrument or a person's voice with a
low pitch. 0 Debbie plays the bass in the school orchestra. 0
The small chorus is composed of six sopranos, four altos, two
tenors, and a single bass.
bases -basis
bases ['beSIZ]
• the plural of base 'the bottom and support
0
ing part of something.' The bases of the fruit trees were
wrapped in tape to prevent damage by small animals and
insects. 0 The bases of all of the stemmed goblets were broken
in the dishwasher.
• bases ['beSIZ] base
the plural of 'a center of operations.' 0
Military bases are located all around the country 's borders.
• bases [on] ['beSIZ] the present tense, third person singular
10
beat -beet
of base [on}
'to establish a foundation for an idea.' 0 She
almost always bases her opinions on hearsay.
• basis ['beSIS]
a concept on which a reasoned conclusion is
based. (The plural is pronounced ['besiz].) 0 Three people will
be indicted for the crime on the basis ofthe woman 's testimony.
basis See the main entry beginning with bases.
bass See the main entry beginning with base.
bate See the main entry beginning with bait.
bawled See the main entry beginning with bald.
bazaar-bizarre
•bazaar [b;)'zoac] a marketplace or fair for the sale of goods.
o Multitudes of sights, sounds, and smells filled the bazaar in
the village square.
• bizarre [bI'ZOac] odd; eccentric; out of the ordinary. 0 The
detective had a bizarre habit of inviting suspects to dinner.
be-bee
be [bi]
• 0 We 'll be
to exist; to live; to occupy space or time.
grateful when winter ends and spring arrives.
bee [bi]
• 0
an insect that feeds on pollen and produces honey.
A hive can have only one queen bee at a time.
bee [bi]
• a gathering for a specific purpose. (Typically a
spelling bee, quilting bee, [corn) husking bee. ) 0 The entire
or a
town turned out to watch the day-long spelling bee.
beach-beech
beach [bit.\1
• a stretch of sandy or rocky area along a water's
0 Such interesting creatures as hermit crabs, brittle
edge.
stars, and jellyfish can be found on the beach after the tide
recedes.
beach [bit.\1
• to run a boat or ship onto the shore. 0 The
sailors tried to beach their small vessel during the violent storm.
beech [bit.\1
•
gray bark. a type of hardwood tree characterized by smooth

0 The beech in our backyard produces an ample
supply of nuts for the deer in winter.
bear See the main entry beginning with bare.
beat -beet
•beat [bit] to hit someone or something. 0
I beat the rug in an
effort to remove as much dust and dirt from it as possible.
•beat [bit] to overcome someone or something; to defeat some
0
one or something. Our hometown football team is not likely
11
beau-bow
to beat its arch rival.

• beat [bit] an audible pulsation. 0 The drumbeat accom
panied tribal members in their ceremonial dance.
· beet 0
[bit] a garden vegetable with edible leaves and roots.
Mom 's enormous beet won first prize at the state fair.
beau-bow
(See also bough - bow.)
• beau [bo] a boyfriend; a suitor. 0
The attention of each new
beau only added to Rita 's vanity.
• bow [bo] a ribbon tied in a decorative knot. 0
On his first
birthday, the child was interested only in the bow on each
present given to him.
· bow [bo] a stick equipped with stretched horsehairs, used to
play stringed musical instruments. 0 While his violin is an
antique, the bow used to play it is new.
• bow [bo] a curved piece of strong material strung with a cord
and used to shoot arrows. 0 The bow and arrows were presented
to the young hunter as a gift on his sixteenth birthday.
beaut-butte
beaut
• [bjut] an abbreviation of beauty 'a beautiful person or
thing.' (Slang. Used as an expression of admiration. Often used
0 0
sarcastically.) Your new car is a real beaut. "That black
eye you have is a real beaut!" exclaimed Jeff
• butte [bjut] a large, solitary hill with steep sides and a small,
0
flat top. From a distance, the butte appeared to be a rectan
gular box sitting on the horizon.
bee See the main entry beginning with be.
beech See the main entry beginning with beach.

been-bin
been [bm] the past participle of be 'to exist.'
• 0
To have been
able to sail around the world was, he felt, his greatest oppor
tunity in life.
bin [bm] a storage container.
· 0
At the end of the harvest,
each bin was filled to capacity with com.
beer -bier
beer
• 0 Brewers spend
[bIa'] a fermented alcoholic beverage.
thousands of dollars each year advertising beer on T. V.
bier
• [bIa'] a platform on which a corpse or a coffin is placed.
o The body of the chief was set high on a bier in the wilderness.
beet See the main entry beginning with beat.
12
billed -build
bell -belle
bell [bEl]
•
when struck.a hollowKathleen

0
instrument that produces a ringing sound
has a tiny glass bell and a huge
antique school bell in her collection.
•belle [bEl] an attractive, popular woman or girl. 0
Amy felt
like the belle of the ball when she was asked to dance five times.
belle See the main entry beginning with bell.
berry-bury
•berry ['bEa'-i] the small, sometimes edible fruit of various
0
plants and shrubs. The berry of the currant bush makes a
tasty, tart jam.
• bury ['bEa'-i]
to conceal something some place; to cover some
0
one or something with earth. To bury one 's face in one 's
hands can be a sign of joy, grief, or disbelief 0 We were not
permitted to bury our dog in the backyard.
berth-birth
berth [ba'-6]
• 0 My berth
a platform or bed on a train or ship.
in the train 's sleeping car was extremely small.
•berth [ba'-6] 0 Huge
a place where a ship docks or anchors.
oceangoing vessels require a large berth when in port.
berth [ba'-6]
• 0 Although he had hoped to
a job. (Figurative.)
play in the major leagues, James eagerly accepted a berth in an
amateur baseball club.
•birth [ba'-e] the process by which an offspring emerges from
its mother.0 The birth of a rare white tiger cub caused quite a
stir at the zoo.
•birth [ba'-e] the beginning of something. 0 The birth of the
space age spawned a flurry of activity among the world 's highly
developed nations.
better-bettor
•better ['bEta'-] 0 While Aaron was
superior, but not the best.
an excellent math student, his twin brother Alex was better in
science.
•bettor ['bEta'-]a person who bets or gambles. 0 The bettor
placed his chips nervously on the roulette table.
bettor See the main entry beginning with better.
between See the main entry beginning with among.
bier See the main entry beginning with beer.
billed -build
•billed [bIld] the past tense and past participle of bill 'to
13
bin
0
present a statement of charges.' The telephone company
incorrectly billed us for several long distance calls.
build [bdd] to construct something.
• 0
In order to build a
house on that piece ofproperty, a building permit is required.
build [bdd] to establish or increase something.
• 0
The semi-
nar is designed to help people build self-esteem.
bin See the main entry beginning with been.
birth See the main entry beginning with berth.
bizarre See the main entry beginning with bazaar.
blew-blue
blew [blu] the past tense of blow 'to move something about
•
0A
with air.' warm, southerly wind gently blew the windsocks
in the breeze.
• blew [about] [blu] the past tense of blow [about] 'to boast or
0
brag about someone or something.' Jeff blew about even his
minor accomplishments to anyone who would listen.
• blue [blu] the color of a clear sky. 0
The clear, sparkling
water surrounding the atoll was an amazing shade of deep blue.
• blue [blu] depressed; low in spirit. 0
The death of her cat
made Mary blue.
bloc-block
bloc [blak]
• a united group of people or countries acting to
0
gether for a common purpose. The bloc of coffee-producing
nations opposed the trade embargo levied against one of its
members.
• block [blak] a solid piece of material with one or more flat
0
surfaces. Tim used a large block of wood to prop up the truck.
• block [blak] to obstruct someone or something. 0 The iron
gate serves to block any unwanted visitors.
• block [blak] an obstacle. 0 The school board's refusal to give
teachers dental insurance created a block in the negotiations.
• block [blak] one of the parcels of land delineated by a grid
of streets. (This refers to the square or rectangular parcels of
land as well as the distance of one of the sides of the parcels.)
o New sidewalks were installed around the entire block of our
neighborhood.
block See the main entry beginning with bloc.
blue See the main entry beginning with blew.
boar-boor-bore - Boer
boar [b;)(}'-] a male mammal of some species, usually the swine
•
14
bold-bowled
family. 0 The hunters captured a wild boar in the woods.

• boor [buac, roac] a rude, discourteous person. 0 The boor con
tinually disrupted the meeting with his bad behavior.
• bore [b::>ac] 0 Special metal drill
to drill a hole in something.
bits are needed to bore through granite.
• bore [b::>ac] an
the hollow space in a gun barrel or engine
cylinder. 0 A bullet passes through the bore of a gun when the
gun is fired.
• bore [b::>ac]to make someone uncomfortable or weary through
inactivity or by something tedious. 0 Please do not bore us
with all of the small details.
• Boer [roac] a South African of Dutch or Huguenot descent.
o No one but a Boer had been elected to office in many years.
board-bored
board [b::>;ro]
• 0 Bill had some difficulty
a plank of wood.
rounding a corner while carrying the long board beneath his
arm.
board [b::>;ro]
• a game table.0 The board used to play checkers
can also be used to play chess.
board [b::>;ro]
• a group of governing officers.0 The board of
directors meets once a month on Tuesday evenings.
board [b::>;ro]
• 0 No one is allowed to board
to go onto a vessel.
the ship without first going through a security check.
bored [b::>acd]
• bore
the past tense and past participle of 'to
make someone uncomfortable
by something tedious. ' Afterorjustweary
0
through inactivity or
five minutes with her new
doll, the child was utterly bored.
boarder-border
boarder ['roacdac]
• a person who rents a room, usually in a
0 A private entrance is available for the boarder
house or inn.
who lives in the upstairs apartment.
border ['b::>acdac]
• 0 The border of the
a boundary; an edge.
natural bird sanctuary is posted with warning signs that read
"Please Do Not Feed The Birds. "
Boer See the main entry beginning with boar.
bold-bowled
•bold [bold] unafraid in the face of danger. 0
Risk-takers tend
to be bold in spirit.
•bold [bold] impudent; presumptuous. 0
The girl rejected the
advances of the bold young man.
•bold [bold] standing out; prominent. 0
The new vocabulary
words in each chapter are printed in bold type.
15
bolder-boulder
• bowled [bold] the past tense and past participle of bowl 'to
0
roll a ball down a lane in the sport of bowling.' Although an
amateur, Rachel bowled three perfect games in the tournament.
· bowled [over] [bold] the past tense and past participle of
bowl [over} 'to overwhelm someone with surprise.' 0I was
completely bowled over by his extreme generosity.
bolder-boulder
bolder
• ['bold�] more fearless than someone or something
0 Sam 's tiny chihuahua has always been bolder than his
else.
timid cat.
boulder
• ['bold�] a large rock, usually detached from sur
rounding rocky masses.0 The massive boulder that perched
above the rustic cabin seemed threatening.
boll-bowl
boll
• 0 Not a single cotton
[bol] the pod of a cotton plant.
plant showed signs of its boll being infested with weevils.
bowl
• [bol] a rounded dish used for holding liquids and other
food. 0 A festive bowl of fresh fruit served as the centerpiece on
the table.
boor See the main entry beginning with boar.
border See the main entry beginning with boarder.
bore See the main entry beginning with boar.
bored See the main entry beginning with board.
born-borne
born [ro�n] the past participle of bear 'to give birth to some
•
0
one or some creature.' Migratory animals have often born
offspring under difficult conditions.
borne [b;)�n] the past participle of bear 'to carry or support
•
0
someone or something.' Our pack animals have borne heavy
loads of materials on their backs.
borne [b;)�n] the past participle of bear 'to accept or assume
·
0
something.' Throughout history, great leaders have borne
responsibility for their decisions and actions.
borne [b�n] the past participle of bear 'to produce or yield
·
0
something.' The newly developed plants have borne larger
yields offruits in shorter periods of time.
borne See the main entry beginning with born.
borough-b -burrow
urro
borough ['�o] a political division in an urban area. (Par
•
ticularly in New York City, which has five boroughs.) Mr. 0
16
boy-buoy
O 'Leary was once a police officer in the borough of Queens in

New York City.
• burro ['ba'O] a donkey. 0 When one pictures a gold prospec
tor in the western United States, one almost always imagines a
burro as his trusty companion.
• burrow ['b<3'o] a hole dug in the ground by an animal for
living or hiding. 0 The burrow of a groundhog has at least two
tunnels for entrance and escape.
• burrow 0 Many animals
['b<3'o] to excavate a hole or tunnel.
that hibernate for the winter burrow under woodpiles or rocks.
bough-bow
(See also
beau-bow. )
bough
• 0 During the violent thunder
[bou] the limb of a tree.
storm, a large bough of the maple tree bent to the ground and
snapped.
bow
• [bou] to bend forward at the waist, usually as a sign of
0 Gentlemen should always bow when
greeting or deference.
introduced to Britain 's queen, and ladies should always curtsey.
bow
• [bou] the forward part of a ship. 0 The huge waves
washed over the bow of the boat during the violent windstorm.
bouillon -bullion
•bouillon ['bulj;m] a broth made from beef or chicken stock.
o A cup of hot bouillon tastes good on a cold, wintry evening.
•bullion ['buljon] gold or silver that has been formed into
0 The buried pirate 's chest was stuffed with gold bullion
bars.
and precious gems.
boulder See the main entry beginning with bolder.
bow See
the main
beginning withentry beginning with and the main entry
bough.
beau
bowl See the main entry beginning with boll.
bowled See the main entry beginning with bold.
boy-buoy
boy [bOI] a male child.
• 0
In some cultures, boys are preferred
over girls.
buoy ['bui] a floating marker in a lake, river, or ocean.
• 0
When snorkeling or skin diving, a buoy should be anchored
near the dive site to alert boaters to divers in the area.
• buoy ['bui] to support someone. 0 We tried to buoy his spirits
by tellingjokes.
17
braid-brayed
braid -brayed
braid [bred]
o a type of weaving using three or more strands of
0
something, usually hair. The French braid has gained
popularity as both a casual and elegant hair fashion.
o braid [bred] to weave something into a braided pattern. 0
I do not have the patience to braid my daughter's hair every
morning.
o brayed [bred] bray
0 Each time
utter the loud, harsh sound of a donkey or mule.'
visitors came near the donkey, it brayed loudly hoping for a
carrot or sugar cube.
braise -brays-braze
braise [brez]
o to prepare food in its own juices with very little
0
water in a covered pot. I prefer to braise my pot roasts in the
oven rather than fix them in a pressure cooker.
o brays [brez] the plural of bray 'a loud, harsh sound, as that
0
made by a donkey.' The brays of discordant notes played by
the unpracticed band was hardly music to the ears.
o brays [brez] the present tense, third person singular of bray
'to utter a loud, harsh sound, like that made by a donkey.' 0
The mule brays loudly each day around feeding time.
o braze [brez] to unite metal objects with solder. 0 Tom used
solder to braze the broken hitch together.
brake-break
brake [brek]
o 0 He was not able to brake the
to stop a vehicle.
car in time to avoid hitting the branch in the road.
brake [brek]
o 0
a device used to lock the wheels of a vehicle.
Do you always set the emergency brake on your car when
parking on a hill ?
break [brek]
o to smash something; to separate something into
0 If you step on that toy, it will surely
parts, often by force.
break.
break [brek]
o an intermission or recess from something. 0
We will take a break halfway through the class.
break [brek]
o to violate or disregard a law, rule, or tradition.
o If you break the law, you must pay the penalty for your
wrongdoing.
brayed See the main entry beginning with braid.
brays See the main entry beginning with braise.
braze See the main entry beginning with braise.
18
brews-bruise
breach-breech
breach [brit.l1
• a violation or infraction of a law, norm, or
obligation. 0 When he failed to live up to the terms of the
agreement, the contractor was sued for breach of contract by his
employees.
• breach [brit.l1 a break, hole, or gap in a structure. 0 The
breach in the dam posed a serious threat to the safety of the
village.
• breach [brit.l1 to leap out of the water.0 No one knows for
certain the reason whales breach.
• breech [brit.l1 the part of a firearm nearest the rear of the
barrel. 0 The breech of the rifle was damaged when it fell
against a rock.
bread-bred
bread [brEd]
• a leavened food made of flour, liquid, and short
0 Some bakeries sell only bread made with all natural
ening.
ingredients and no preservatives.
bread [brEd]
• money. (Slang.) 0 "1 need some bread so 1 can
take my girl to the movies, " said Rusty.
bred [brEd]
• breed
mate so as to produce offspring.' 0 Mares are usually bred on
a yearly basis to prevent barrenness.
break See the main entry beginning with brake.
bred See the main entry beginning with bread.
breech See the main entry beginning with breach.
brewed -brood
brewed [brud] the past tense and past participle of brew 'to
•
create a beverage through steeping or fermentation.' Mary 0

always brewed a fresh pot of coffee first thing each morning.
brewed [up] [brud] the past tense and past participle of brew
•
[up] 'to plot or contrive something.' 0 The thieves brewed up a

plan to steal the valuable paintings.
•brood [brud] the young offspring of an animal, particularly
0
fowl. The mother hen attentively hovered over her brood of
chicks.
brood [brud] to worry.
• 0
Don 't brood over past mistakes; try
to avoid future ones.
brews-bruise
brews [bruz]
• the present tense, third person singular of brew
0
'to make a beverage by steeping or fermentation.' Grandma
always brews her herbal tea for exactly four minutes.
19
bridal-bridle
• brews [bruz] the present tense, third person singular of brew

0
'to form or develop.' Trouble often brews when those two
mischievous children get together.
• bruise [bruz] a discoloration of the skin. 0 The bruise on his
arm changed colors before it healed completely.
• bruise [bruz] to inflict an injury or wound on someone. 0
Please do not bruise my ego further by criticizing my work.
bridal-bridle
bridal ['brmdl]
• having to do with a bride or a wedding.0
Elaborate bridal shows seem to offer everything for the future
bride except the groom. 0 The bridal bouquet had roses and
tulips in it.
bridle ['brmdl]
•
rider controls thetheanimal.

headgear worn by a horse by which the
0 Just before the race began, the
jockey noticed his horse's bridle was broken.
bridle ['brmdl]
• to put headgear on a horse. 0 After you
saddle and bridle the horse, lead it out to the paddock.
bridle ['brmdl]
• 0
to curb or restrain someone or something.
"I wish I could bridle that child 's energy, " moaned the weary
mother.
bridle See the main entry beginning with bridal.
broach-brooch
broach [brotJ] a sharp, pointed tool.
• 0
When the whiskey is
fully mature, a broach is used to tap the casks.
broach [brotJ] to open up a topic for discussion.
• 0
It is
difficult to broach the subject of his deceased wife without Mr.
Jones becoming upset.
• brooch [brotJ]
a large, decorative pin usually worn by
women. 0 In old photographs, women are often seen wearing
a brooch at the throat of their blouse.
brooch See the main entry beginning with broach.
brood See the main entry beginning with brewed.
brows-browse
brows [brouz] the plural of brow 'the forehead, eyebrow, or
•
0
browridge.' The brows of the committee members wrinkled
in anger at the unexpected news.
browse [brouz] the young, tender plants or trees on which
•
0
certain animals like to graze. Deer browse often consists of
acorns, beechnuts, and the young leaves of various plants.
browse [brouz]
• leisurely gaze through, look over, or inspect
to
0
something. To browse casually through a large bookstore is
20
bussed-bust
one of life 's small pleasures.

browse See the main entry beginning with brows.
bruise See the main entry beginning with brews.
build See the main entry beginning with billed.
bullion See the main entry beginning with bouillon.
buoy See the main entry beginning with o . b y
burley-burly
•burley ['b<3'li] a mild, air-cured tobacco grown primarily in
Kentucky. 0When traveling through the Kentucky countryside
in late summer, one can see the open-sided sheds where burley
ripens to its peak.
• burly ['b<3'1i]
solidly and strongly built. 0 Despite his burly
physique, Kent is extremely mild-mannered.
burly See the main entry beginning with burley.
burro See the main entry beginning with borough.
burrow See the main entry beginning with borough.
bury See the main entry beginning with berry.
bus-buss
•bus [b;:)s] a large, motorized vehicle usually used for public
0
transportation. Group travel by bus or motorcoach is ex
tremely popular today.
•bus [b;:)s] to transport someone or something by bus. In an0
effort to integrate their school district, the school board voted to
bus students across town.
bus [b;:)s]to tidy tables
•
dishes and replacing theminwith

a restaurant
clean ones.by clearing away dirty
0 When he learned
that he would have to bus tables as well as wash dishes, Todd
decided not to take the restaurant job.
• buss [b;:)s]
a kiss. 0 The tourists were greeted at the airport in
Hawaii with a flower lei and a buss on the cheek.
• buss [b;:)s]
to kiss someone or something. 0 Bobby always
squirms away from his great-aunt when she tries to buss him.
buss See the main entry beginning with bus.
bussed-bust
bussed [b;:)st] the past tense and past participle of bus 'to
•
transport someone or something by bus.' The stranded 0

travelers were bussed to nearby motels to spend the evening.
21
bust
• bussed [b�st] the past tense and past participle of bus 'to
clear away dirty dishes and then replace them with clean ones
0
in a restaurant.' Cheryl collected the tips for the waiters as
she bussed the tables.
• bussed [b�st] the past tense and past participle of buss 'to kiss
0
someone.' (Slang or colloquial.) The hostess bussed each of
the departing dinner guests on the cheek.
• bust [b�st] a sculpture of the upper part of a human body. 0
A bust of William Shakespeare rests on a pedestal in a public
garden in Stratford, Ontario.
• bust [b�st]
the upper portion of a woman's body or the part of
a woman's garment between the neck and waist. While the 0
rest of Sheila 's gown fit perfectly, the bust was much too tight.
bust [b�st] to break someone or something; to ruin someone
•
or something. (Colloquial for break . Considered slang or non

0
standard for burst. ) Those poor management policies will
eventually bust the corporation.
bust [b�st] an arrest by the police; police intervention of a
•
0
criminal activity. (Slang.) The late-night bust of the night
club resulted in the arrest of several gambling suspects.
bust [b�st] to hit or punch someone or something. (Slang.)
• 0
Stop making those ugly remarks or I'll bust you in the mouth.
bust See the main entry beginning with bussed.
but-butt
but [b�t] except for someone or something; without someone
•
(A 0
or something. conjunction.) The motorist knew the stretch
of highway was heavily patrolled, but she continued to exceed
the speed limit anyway.
• butt [b�t] the buttocks of a person or animal. (Colloquial and
sometimes considered rude. ) 0 That type of injection is always
given in the butt.
• butt [b�t] to push or strike someone or something with the
head or horns. 0 If you step into the pasture, the ornery ram
might butt you.
• butt [b�t] to fit or press something end to end; to fit tightly
against something. 0 The pieces of wood must butt tightly in
order to get a good {it.
butt See the main entry beginning with but.
butte See the main entry beginning with beaut.
buy-by-bye
buy [bOI] to purchase something; to hire or bribe someone,
•
22
bye
usually by a payment of money. D I want to buy a new com

puter in the near future. 0 My money will buy three hours of
the plumber 's time.
• buy [bOl] a bargain; the purchase of something at a good
price. 0 The lawn-care tools were priced so low that the
gardener couldn 't pass up such a good buy.
• by [bOl]
by means of someone or something; by way of some
thing. D We will have to do it by hand. 0 Ms. Smith seldom
travels by highway if she can take a more scenic route.
• by [bOl]
past something. 0 My father drove right by me and
didn 't see me.
• by [bOI]
near or close to someone or something. 0 I left my
glasses sitting by the telephone book.
• bye [bOl]
an abbreviation of good-bye. 0 Mary always says
"bye" before hanging up the phone.
bye [bOl]
a situation in a tournament or contest where
•
player or team has no opponent and advances to the next stagea

0
without playing. Drawing a bye in the early rounds of the
play-offs allowed the team more time to practice.
by See the main entry beginning with buy.
bye See the main entry beginning with buy.
23
cache-cash
cache [kre.\1
• a hiding place, often for food, fuel, or money; the
0
contents of a hiding place. Few people knew the location of
the cache where the excess foodstuffs were stored. 0 The cache
of stolen money was hidden deep inside the cave.
• cash [kre.\1 bills or coins; money ready at hand. 0 Since I did
not have enough cash to pay for my purchase, I had to charge it
on my credit card. 0 John paid cash for his groceries because
there was not much money in his checking account.
• cash [kre.\1 to exchange a check or bill for cash. 0 You may
cash your paycheck at the grocery store if it doesn 't exceed
$300.00.
caddie- caddy
caddie ['kredi]
• 0
a wheeled cart used to transport objects.
The movers used a caddie to take the refrigerator from the
house to the moving van.
caddie AND caddy ['kredi]
• a person who carries clubs and
0 Tom has spent the past three summers
balls for a golfer.
working as a caddie at the local golf course. 0 The caddy could
not find Bill 's ball.
caddy ['kredi]
• 0
a small box or container for storing things.
Tea bags remain fresh longer if kept in an airtight caddy.
caddy See the main entry beginning with caddie.
callous- callus
callous ['krei;}s] hardened.
• 0
Bill developed a callous growth
of skin on his thumb from many years of sorting mail.
callous ['krei;}s] devoid of feelings; not caring.
• 0
While the
24
canter - cantor
tough-minded businesswoman appears to be very callous toward

her employees, she is actually kind and considerate.
• callus ['keel;)s]
a hardened or thickened part of the skin. D
Mary developed a callus on each heel.
callus See the main entry beginning with callous.
can-may
• can [keen] to be capable of or know how to do something. D I
can find my way around New York City without trouble.
• may [me] to have permission to do something. D You may go
to a movie after your chores are done.
cannon- canon
cannon ['keen;)n]
•
or explosive shells. Da large artillery gun that shoots lead balls

The large cannon on the courthouse lawn
gives a certain ambiance to the village square.
• canon ['keen;)n] a rule or law of a church or religion. D The
priest explained the purpose of each canon of the Catholic
church to the children.
• canon ['keen;)n] a generally accepted standard or principle.
D An unspoken canon in retail business is that the customer is
always right.
• canon ['keen;)n]a musical piece of several parts in which the
ments. The group ofimitated
melody is precisely
D
by successive voices or instru
children sang the old canon "Row, Row,
Row Your Boat" with much enthusiasm.
canon See the main entry beginning with cannon.
cant-can't
•cant [keent] the angle or slant of something. D The cant of
the new roof is not steep enough to shed rainwater.
•cant [keent] to lean or slope to the side. D That sculpture was
designed to cant to one side to give it an unusual appearance.
•cant [keent] words spoken in a sing-song manner. D The
beggar's cant was almost unintelligible.
•can't [keent] a contraction of cannot 'unable to do something.'
D Ifyou can 't finish your term paper on time, ask your instruc
tor for an extension.
can't See the main entry beginning with can t.
canter- cantor
• canter ['keenta<-] a horse's gait somewhere between a trot and
a gallop. D Some riders prefer the smooth movement of a canter
to ajerky trot.
25
cantor
cantor ['henta'-] an official of a synagogue who sings or chants

•
0
prayer. The cantor at our synagogue has a wonderful voice.
cantor See the main entry beginning with canter.
canvas-canvass
canvas ['ki:enVIS] a closely woven cloth made of cotton or
•
linen, often used for clothing, ships' sails, and oil paintings. 0
Nowadays racing boats use a lightweight fabric for their sails
instead of canvas.
canvass ['krenVIS] to travel through voting districts in an
•
effort to gain Weinformation

and issues. 0
or support for political candidates
will canvass our neighborhood to gain support
for our candidate.
canvass See the main entry beginning with can vas.
capital-capitol-Capitol
capital ['krepltl] punishable by death.
• 0Murder in the first
degree is a capital offense in several states.
capital ['krepltI] principal; main.
• 0Our capital concern was
the welfare of the children.
capital ['krepltI] a city that serves as a seat of government.
• 0
The capital of a state is not necessarily the state 's largest city.
capital ['krepltI]
• 0
accumulated money or property. Before
he could start a business, Martin had to raise capital to finance
the venture.
• capitol ['krepltI] the building in which the legislature of a
state meets. 0 The capitol of Michigan was designed by the
same architect who designed the Texas capitol.
• Capitol ['krepltI]the building in Washington, D.C., where the
United States Congress meets. 0 The U.S. Capitol is located
on First Street between Constitution and Independence avenues.
capitol See the main entry beginning with capital.
Capitol See the main entry beginning with capital.
carat- caret - carro t-karat
carat
• karat ['krea'-;)t, 'kEa'-;)t] a measurement of weight
AND
for precious stones. is the most common form.) Her
( Carat 0
diamond engagement ring contained a single marquise-shaped
stone weighing less than a carat.
caret ['krea'-;)t, 'kEa'-;)t] a V-like symbol pointing to where
•
something is to be inserted into a line of writing or print. 0

The proofreader used a caret to show where Pamela had
omitted a word in the sentence.
26
cedar- seeder
carrot ['kreac;)t, 'hac;)t]

•
anedible orange root. a common garden vegetable having

0 Put a carrot or two in the stew to add
both flavor and color.
• carrot ['kreac;)t, 'hac;)t] a promised but often deceptive re
ward or advantage. (From the image of a carrot tied to the end
of a stick and held out in front of a horse, causing it to move
0
forward in hopes of getting to eat the carrot.) To inspire
Austin to earn all A 's on his report card, his parents coaxed him
with a carrot of box seats to the Pirate 's opening day game.
•karat ['kreac;)t, 'hac;)t] a unit of pureness of gold in an alloy.
oWhat karat is the gold in your wedding ring ?
caret See the main entry beginning with carat.
carol-carrel
• carol ['kreac;)i, 'hac;)i] a song usually associated with the
0
Christmas season. Their favorite holiday carol is "God Rest
•
Yecarrel
Merry['kreac;)i,
Gentlemen."
'hac;)i] a small, three-sided, desklike enclo
sure usually found in libraries and other study areas. Food,0
drink, and portable radios are not permitted in any study carrel.
carrel See the main entry beginning with carol.
carrot See the main entry beginning with carat.
cash See the main entry beginning with cache.
cast -caste
•cast [krest] to throw someone or something. (Usually with an
0
adverb, such as away, out, or off) The sailor cast the rope
around the piling on the dock.
•cast [krest] to assign roles or parts in a production. 0
The
director cast an unknown actress in the movie 's lead role.
•cast [krest] to form something in a mold. 0
The sculptor cast
the statue in bronze.
•cast [krest] to direct one's sight onto something. 0 As
Tommy
cast his eyes on his new birthday pony, he became very excited.
•caste [krest] a social rank usually based on birth, wealth, or
occupation. 0 In some societies, individuals are prohibited
from moving out of the caste into which they were born.
caste See the main entry beginning with cast.
cedar- seeder
•cedar ['sidac] a type of coniferous tree known for its sturdy,
0
aromatic wood. The craftsman carefully lined the drawers of
the chest with fragrant cedar.
27
cede -seed
• seeder ['sidac] a farm or garden implement used to plant

0 Planting corn is much easier with the help of a seeder.
seeds.
cede -seed
cede [sid]
· to yield, withdraw, or grant something, usually by
aagreement
formal treaty. 0 The terms of the cease-fire included an
by the defeated country to cede the disputed strip of
land to the victors.
• seed [sid] the ripened germ of a plant. 0 The seed sent up a
tiny shoot only a week after it was planted.
• seed [sid] to plant or sow seeds. 0 If we seed the lawn just
before a rain, the grass has a better chance of taking hold.
ceiling - sealing
·ceiling ['sihIJ] 0 A vast mural covers the
the top of a room.
ceiling of the art room. 0 Her ceiling consists of a swirled
plaster stucco.
·ceiling ['siiIl)] the above-ground height of the lowest layer of
cloud cover. 0 We delayed our flying lesson yesterday due to
the extremely low ceiling.
•sealing ['siiiIJ] seal
the present participle of 'to fasten some
thing with something that must be broken to gain access.' 0
After sealing the envelope, Mary placed it in the mailbox.
cell- sell
cell [sEll
• a small, lockable room or compartment. 0 The
prisoner's cell had none of the comforts of home.
cell [sEll
• 0 Each
a small, microscopic unit of living matter.
student looked at his or her own skin cell under the microscope.
cell [sEll
• 0 The
the smallest basic unit of an organization.
cell of the secret underground group consisted of only four
members.
sell [sEll
·
for money.to offer something for sale; to exchange something

0 Tom hopes to sell his old car some day soon. 0
The spy was willing to sell government security secrets in
exchange for a large sum of money.
cellar-seller
cellar ['sEiac]
• a basement or underground storeroom. 0 The
cellar is nothing but a cold, damp, and unused area ofthe house.
seller ['sEiac]
• a person who offers something for sale. 0 The
young seller of the baseball card collection was reluctant to part
with his treasures.
28
cent- scent- sent
censer-censor-censure- sensor
•censer ['SEnsa'-] 0 A
a container used to burn incense. pleas
ant fragrance floated from the censer.
•censor ['sensa'-] a person who examines published or distrib
uted material and makes recommendations for the deletion of
0
objectionable matter. The censor suggested that some of the
dialogue be removed from the author 's latest novel.
• censor ['sensa'-] to examine published or distributed material
with 0
a view to removing objectionable material. The director
of the film knew that the commission would censor her work
mercilessly.
• censure ['SEnJa'-][for a legislative body] to reprimand one of
its members. 0 The legislature voted to censure its most notori
ous member.
• sensor ['sensa'-]
a device that senses movement, light, or heat
and reacts to it in some way. 0 A smoke detector contains a
sensor that reacts quickly and noisily to both smoke and heat.
censor See the main entry beginning with censer.
censure See the main entry beginning with censer.
census-senses
•census ['SEns;:)s] a periodic counting of the population by the
government. (This is done every ten years in the United
0
States.) The most recent census showed a sizable shift of
people from the Midwestern states to the coastal regions.
•senses ['SEns;:)z] the plural of sense 'an ability to perceive
0
sound, sight, touch, smell, and taste.' The senses ofsight and
hearing usually diminish with age.
•senses ['sEnsn] a mental state where one is logical or rea
0
sonable. I hope Elaine comes to her senses before she does
something she 'll regret later.
•senses ['sEnsn] the present tense, third person singular of
0
sense 'to have a feeling or sensation.' Doug often senses when
his daughter is upset.
cent-scent- sent
cent [sent]
• one penny; one-hundredth of a dollar. 0 "You
won 't get a cent from me, " yelled the angry customer.
scent [sent]
• 0 The wonderful scent of lilacs
a smell; an odor.
was everywhere. 0 Our dog easily picked up the scent of the
quail on the damp ground.
29
cents- scents- sense
o sent [s£Ot] the past tense and past participle of send 'to cause
someone or something to goThesomewhere.' 0 We sent the courier
to deliver the message. 0 fast-breaking news story was sent
through the wire services.
cents- scents- sense
cents [s£Ots]
o the plural of cent 'one penny; one one
0
hundredth of a dollar.' Items that once cost a few cents
now cost a few dollars.
o scents [s£Ots] the plural of scent 'a smell; an odor.' The0
combination of scents from the different foods was almost
sickening.
o sense [s£Ots] 0 We had a definite sense
a feeling or sensation.
of uneasiness as we approached the dimly lit house.
cereal- serial
cereal ['sIa'-i;:)1]
o a food made of grain and eaten for breakfast.
o The price of cereal in the supermarket has risen dramatically
in the past two years.
serial ['sIa'-i;:)1]
o D A new auto
in or of a series, rank, or order.
mobile is stamped with a serial number to aid in identification.
serial ['sIa'-i;:)1]
o a publication or program offered in segments
at intervals. D The new book will appear, in part, as a monthly
serial in that magazine.
cession - session
cession ['s£Jn]
o a concession, withdrawal, or yielding to some
thing else. 0 The large cession of land was welcomed by the
county that received it.
o session ['s£Jn] a meeting for the purpose of transacting busi
ness. 0 The collective bargaining session lasted into the wee
hours of the night.
o session ['s£Jn]the set period of time in which a legislative
body meets before adjournment. 0 Congress will not be in
session again until after the holidays.
chance - chants
chance [tJrents]
o 0 There is a chance that it will
a possibility.
rain tomorrow.
chance [tJrents]
o 0 Next summer, the Boy
an opportunity.
Scout troop will have the chance to camp on a very remote
island.
chance [tJrents]
o D Quite by chance
by coincidence or accident.
I saw a former classmate at the bus depot.
chants [tJrents]
o chant
the plural of 'a song or statement, sung
or spoken in a monotonous tone of voice.' 0 The loud
30
Chile -chili -chilly
chants of the protestors could be heard for several city blocks.

chants See the main entry beginning with chance.
chased -chaste
•chased [tJest] the past tense and past participle of chase
'to pursue or follow someone or something quickly.' The 0
hounds and hunters chased the fox over miles of countryside.
• chaste [tJest]pure; virginal; unblemished. 0 Monks are ex
pected to be chaste in thought, word, and deed.
chaste See the main entry beginning with chased.
cheap-cheep
• cheap [tJip] inexpensive; not costly. 0
The garment is made
of cheap fabric.
• cheap [tJip] contemptible or unworthy. 0
The unkind re
mark was a cheap attempt to embarrass him.
• cheep [tJip] a faint, shrill sound, often associated with birds
0
and fowl. The cheep of the newly hatched robin brought its
parents to its side immediately.
cheep See the main entry beginning with cheap.
chews-choose
• chews [tJuz] the present tense, third person singular of chew
'to grind or crush something with the teeth.' Because she 0
chews gum in her classroom, the business teacher allows her
students to chew it also.
• choose [tJuz] to select; to prefer something from among
alternatives. 0 I usually choose fish or chicken when dining
at restaurants.
chic-sheik
•chic [jik] 0 Why don 't ordinary
elegant; stylish. (Fashion.)
people look as chic wearing the latest styles as fashion models
do ?
sheik [Jik, Jek]
• 0 A sheik owns the three new
an Arab chief.
luxury car dealerships in Phoenix.
Chile-chili -chilly
•Chile ['tJde, 'tJdi] a country in South America. Chile is 0
right next to Argentina.
•chili ['tJdi] a hot, spicy traditional Mexican dish consisting of
meat, beans, 0
tomatoes, peppers, and spices. If you 're going
to eat spicy chili, be prepared for the results.
• chili ['tJdi] a hot, sweet pepper. 0 I added a chili to the
nachos to give them more flavor.
31
chili
• chilly ['tJdi]
cool; cold. 0 The damp, chilly weather made us
shiver.
• chilly ['tJdi]
lacking warmth of feeling. 0 Each political
opponent gave the other a chilly stare.
chili See the main entry beginning with Chile.
chilly See the main entry beginning with Chile.
choler- collar
•choler ['kolao.] anger; temper. 0She was a woman of high
choler.
•collar ['kolao.] a chain or strap worn about the neck. 0 The
dog 's license, rabies tag, and J.D. are attached to its collar.
•collar ['kolao.] the neckpiece of a garment. 0The collar on
his shirt was frayed from wear.
collar ['kolao.] to capture someone or something. (Slang.)
• 0
The policemen hope to collar the suspect as soon as possible.
choose See the main entry beginning with chews.
chorale -coral- corral
•chorale [bao.'rel] a chorus. 0 Joe belongs to the university
men 's chorale.
•coral ['br;}l] deep pink. 0 Her flowers were red and coral
and complemented her gown perfectly.
•coral ['br;}l] the limestone skeletal structures that support
0
various species of marine polyps. They love to go to the warm
waters and snorkel amidst the coral reefs.
•corral [bao.'rel] a fenced enclosure for keeping livestock. 0
Those horses in the corral belong to a riding stable.
corral [bao.'rel] to gather, capture, or confine.
• 0 I tried to
corral the escaped geese by shooing them into a corner of the
yard.
chord- cord
chord [bao.d]
• a harmonious blend of tones. 0 That chord is a
difficult one to play on a twelve-string guitar.
chord [bao.d]
• a straight line connecting two points on a
0 The geometery instructor asked his class to accurately
curve.
measure the chord of the circle.
cord [bao.d]
• a strong string or rope woven of several strands.
o Sam 's puppy is tied to the clothesline with a cord.
cord [bao.d]
• a tubular or ropelike structure. 0 The baby's
umbilical cord was wrapped around its neck at birth.
cord [bao.d]
• a stack of firewood measuring 4' x 4' X 8'. 0 I
was tired and thirsty after stacking the cord of wood in the barn.
32
clause- claws
• cord [b3'd] a fabric with raised rows of material. 0 Our

home economics teacher suggested using a sturdy fabric such as
twill, cord, or denim for our project.
chute-shoot
chute [Jut]
• a sloped passageway through which things may
be sent. 0 A clothes chute leading from the bathroom to the
basement is very convenient.
• chute [Jut] a parachute. (Slang or colloquial.) 0 Tom has to
pack his own chute when he goes skydiving.
• shoot [Jut] to discharge a gun or other weapon at someone or
something. 0 Before you shoot the rifle, make certain you have
a clear line offire.
• shoot [Jut] to discharge a gun at someone; to release an arrow
at someone. 0 "Please do not shoot me!" begged the clerk.
• shoot [Jut] to photograph someone or something. 0 The film
company making the movie will shoot some scenes along the
waterfront.
• shoot [Jut] a small sprout of new plant growth. 0 Warm
sunshine and plenty of water will enable the shoot to grow
quickly.
cite- sight-site
•cite [SOIt] to order someone to appear in court.0 If you get
caught speeding, the officer may cite you for a moving violation.
·cite [SOIt] to quote something from a published source. 0
Her attorney will cite a little-known law when presenting her
defense.
• cite [SOIt] to recognize someone in commendation. 0 During
his speech, the speaker will cite the award winner 's many
accomplishments.
·sight [SOIt] 0 The child 's sight improved
the ability to see.
greatly following eye surgery.
·sight [SOIt] 0 The Grand Canyon is a mag
a view or glimpse.
nificent sight.
•site [SOIt] a position, place, or scene of something such as a
0 The site for the new veterans memorial has
town or building.
not been decided.
clause- claws
•clause [kbz] a group of wordsorcontaining a subject 'While
and a
verb, used in either a compound complex sentence. 0
he tinkered in his workshop all morning ' is a dependent clause.
• clause [kbz] a specific section of a written document. 0
The
contract contained an escape clause to protect both parties.
33
claws
claws [kbz] the plural of claw 'a sharp, curved nail on the
•
0
toe of an animal.' When he decided to keep his cat indoors,
Mario had its claws removed.
claws [kbz] the plural of claw 'the pincherlike appendage
•
like 0
that of a lobster or crab.' Some fishmarkets offer crab
claws for sale.
claws See the main entry beginning with clause.
click- clique
click [khk] a sharp, taplike sound.
• 0
Tom knew someone
picked up the extension phone when he heard a click on the line.
click [khk] to make a taplike sound.
• 0
I dislike hearing
people click their tongues in disapproval.
click [khk] to fit together or agree.
• 0
Since they both enjoyed
classical music, the new roommates knew immediately that
they would click.
clique [klik, khk]
•
some similar interest,anpurpose,

exclusive,or view.
closely knit group sharing
0 There always seems
to be a particular clique to which many high-school students
want to belong.
climb-clime
climb [kIOIm]
• to go or move up something. 0 Be careful
when you climb the ladder. 0 The song's climb to the top of the
record charts was quick.
clime [kIOIm]
• 0 Bonnie prefers a warm clime to a
a climate.
cold one.
clime See the main entry beginning with climb.
clique See the main entry beginning with click.
close - clothes
•close [kloz] to shut something. 0
Please close the door before
leaving.
•close [kloz] a conclusion; an ending. 0
At the close of the
speech, the drowsy audience began to stir.
•clothes [kloz, klooz] garments. 0
His clothes always look as
if he slept in them.
clothes See the main entry beginning with close.
coarse - course
coarse [b<3's] rough or harsh.
• 0
The coarse texture of the
garment was irritating to the skin.
34
complement - compliment
o coarse [b<3's] of poor quality. 0 The cabin 's coarse furnish

ings were almost unusable.
o coarse [b<3's] lacking refinement in skills or manners. 0 His
behavior is sometimes coarse and offensive.
o course [b<3's] a path of action. 0 The new college students
were encouraged to stay on course and not get distracted from
their studies.
o course [1o<3's]a series of lectures or other materials dealing
with a given subject. 0 The most difficult course in the curricu
lum is entitled "Ethics and Issues. "
o course [b<3's] a pathway over which something moves. 0
The sailboat was blown off its course by strong winds.
collar See the main entry beginning with choler.
collard -collared
ocollard ['kal<3'd] a vegetable with smooth leaves belonging to
0
the cabbage family. A pesky rabbit has nibbled every collard
in my vegetable garden.
o collared ['kal<3'd] the past tense and past participle of collar
0
'to fit someone or something with a collar.' High, stiff
collared shirts were a popular men 's fashion in the 1800 's.
o collared ['kal<3'd] the past tense and past participle of collar
'to catch someone or something; to arrest someone.' (Slang.) 0
I collared the dog and tied it to a tree. 0 The cops collared the
crooksjust after the robbery.
collared See the main entry beginning with collard.
colonel-kernel
o colonel ['k<3'nl] a rank of commissioned military officer higher
than lieutenant colonel but lower than brigadier general. 0
Even a colonel must answer to a higher authority.
o kernel ['k<3'nl] the soft, inner part of a fruit stone, nut, or
0
seed. The small child planted a kernel of corn in each tiny
hole in the earth.
complement -compliment
complement ['kamphm;)nt]
o
pletes someone or something.something

0
that enhances or com
A fine red wine is a nice
complement for a meal including red meat.
o
tocomplement ['kamphm;)nt] the number or quantity needed

make something 0
complete. When the final complement of
troops arrived, the unit moved out.
o compliment ['kamphm;)nt]
for something. to express admiration or respect
0 "I'd like to compliment you on your fine
35
compliment
achievements, " began the speaker.

• compliment ['komphm;)nt] an expression of praise or recog
nition.D Some people become very embarrassed when paid a
compliment.
compliment See the main entry beginning with complement.
confidant - confident
confidant ['konfldont] a person in whom one confides or
•
0
trusts. The frightened youngster chose an understanding
police officer as a confidant.
confident ['konfid;)nt] full of assurance and self-reliance.
• 0
As the ball game progressed, the pitcher grew more confident of
herself
confident See the main entry beginning with confidan t.
continence-continents
continence ['kontm;)nts] self-restraint.
• 0Tom 's continence
dissolved as the badgering and ridicule of his friends continued.
continence ['kontm;)nts] the ability to control excretory
•
0
functions. The stroke victim no longer had continence.
continents ['kontm;)nts] the plural of continent 'one of the
•
0
seven major land masses on the earth.' Australia is the
smallest of the world 's continents.
continents See the main entry beginning with continence.
continual-continuous
continual [k;)n'tmju;)i] on a regular or frequent basis.
• Her0
continual complaints are annoying.
continuous [bn'tmju;)s] constantly; without an end.
• That0
machine 's continuous knocking sound must be fixed.
continuous See the main entry beginning with con tin ual.
coo -coup
coo [ku] a happy, gurgling sound made by an infant.
• New 0
parents are often thrilled by the first coo made by their offspring.
coo [ku] the low, soft sound of a pigeon or dove.
• 0
On hot
summer mornings the coo of a mourning dove is easily
recognizable.
• coo [ku] 0 To coo like a baby is
to utter a soft cooing sound.
usually a sign of contentment.
• coup [ku] a sudden, unexpected, and usually successful ac
tion. D The unseasoned athlete staged a coup against the
champion and eventually won the title.
36
correspondence -correspondents
coop-coupe
coop [kup]
o a small shed or enclosure, usually used to keep
0
poultry. That pesky raccoon raids the chicken coop almost
every night.
o coop [up] [kup] to confine someone or something in close,
restricted 0
quarters. "If you don 't behave, " threatened the
baby-sitter, "I'll coop you up in your room for an hour. "
o coupe AND coupe [kup, ku'peJ
roof. a two-door car with a hard
0 While my brother prefers a convertible, I much prefer a
sporty coupe.
cops-copse
cops [kops]
o cop
the plural of 'a law enforcement officer.'
0 Cops patrol New York City 's streets on horseback.
(Slang.)
copse [kops]
o 0 The
a small, thick growth of trees or bushes.
copse at the back of the farm is a haven for many birds and
small animals.
copse See the main entry beginning with op c s.
coral See the main entry beginning with chorale.
cord See the main entry beginning with chord.
core- corps
o core [bac J the center or foundation of something. 0 At the
core of the curriculum are eight required courses.
o core [bac] the center, inedible part of many fruits. 0 Be sure
to remove the core of the apple when slicing it for the salad.
ocore [bac] the central meaning of something. 0 The core of
the telephone solicitor's pitch was a request for donations.
ocorps [loac] a group of individuals organized and acting to
gether under common direction; an organized subdivision of
aerror.)
military While
0
unit. enlisted
(The pronunciation [lorps] is viewed as an
in the army, Josh was a clerk in the
Army Corps of Engineers. 0 The city 's youth corps provides
jobs for many disadvantaged young people.
corps See the main entry beginning with core.
corral See the main entry beginning with chorale.
correspondence - correspondents
ocorrespondence [bac;)'spond;)nts] a relationship of one thing
0
with another. There is a direct correspondence between diet
and the general health of a person.
ocorrespondence [bac;)'spond;)nts] an exchange of written
0
communication. Mrs. Smith has carried on a correspondence
37
correspondents
with her French pen pal for more than forty years.
• correspondents [ba-- ;)'spand;)nts]people who communicate
regularly in writing with one another. 0 As correspondents,
Kathy and I have enjoyed keeping in touch though we are
separated by thousands of miles.
• correspondents [ba-- ;)'spand;)nts]
people who serve as news
reporters from a distant location. 0 During the Persian Gulf
War, news correspondents reported events as they happened.
correspondents See the main entry beginning with correspon
dence.
council-counsel
council ['kaunsl]
• a body of people that meets to consult or
0 Our city council meets once a month.
make policy.
council ['kaunsl]
• a federation made up of small, local chap
0 The council on physical fitness has established guide
ters.
lines for school-age children 's fitness levels.
counsel ['kaunsl]
• to offer someone advice or consultation.0
Clergymen often counsel young couples preparing for marriage.
counsel ['kaunsl]
• an attorney hired to advise or represent
someone in legal matters. 0 "Counsel will refrain from bad
gering the witness, " roared the angry judge.
counsel See the main entry beginning with council.
coup See the main entry beginning with coo.
coupe See the main entry beginning with coop.
course See the main entry beginning with coarse.
coward - cowered
coward ['kauacd] a person who demonstrates fear.
• 0
Susan
is a real coward when it comes to flying.
cowered ['kaua--d] the past tense and past participle of cower
•
'to draw away from someone or something in fear.' When 0

the dog heard the bathwater running, it cowered in a corner of
the bedroom.
cowered See the main entry beginning with coward.
creak-creek
creak [krik] a squeaking or grating noise.
• 0
The creak of the
swing on the front porch annoys me.
creak [krik] to produce a creaking sound.
• 0
That door will
creak ifyou open it slowly.
creek [krik, knk] a natural stream of water usually smaller
•
38
cue - queue
than a river.0 The homesteaders searched for some land with

a creek running through it.
cream-creme
•cream [krim] the fatty part of whole milk that rises to the
0
top when milk is left standing. Grandma always adds cream
to her tea.
• cream [krim] the best of something or some group. 0 Only
the cream of the contestants will go on to the final competition.
• cream [krim] to whip or beat a substance until it becomes
D
smooth. You should cream the sugar and shortening before
adding the other ingredients.
• creme AND creme [krim, krEm] a sweet, creamy liqueur. 0
He occasionally likes a splash of creme de menthe over ice for a
summer beverage.
creek See the main entry beginning with creak.
creme See the main entry beginning with cream.
crewel-cruel
•crewel [krul] a loosely twisted yarn used in embroidery. 0
The wall hanging in the foyer was done in crewel by her aunt.
•cruel [krul] causing pain, grief, or injury. 0
Children often
utter cruel words to one another in anger.
crews -cruise
•crews [kruz] the plural of crew 'a group of people working
0
together in cooperation.' Each of the work crews was
assigned a task to be completed by the day 's end.
• cruise [kruz] to sail through a geographical location. I 0
would someday like to cruise Alaska 's inland passage.
• cruise [kruz] to wander streets randomly. D Gangs of
youths cruise the streets of the city day and night.
• cruise [kruz] to travel at the most efficient speed. The 0
pilot announced that the aircraft would cruise at an altitude of
33,000 feet.
cruel See the main entry beginning with crewel.
cruise See the main entry beginning with crews.
cue -queue
• cue [kju] a signal given to someone for a specific purpose. 0
When the director gave him the cue, Ken strutted onto the stage.
• cue [kju] to prompt someone. 0
If you forget your lines in
the play, a prompter will cue you from behind the curtain.
• cue [kju] a stick used to strike the balls in pool or billiards.
39
currant- current
o For better contact with the ball, put chalk on the end ofyour
cue.
• queue [up] [kju] D Concert fans began to
to line up in a row.
queue up for tickets at midnight.
• queue [kju] a line; a row.0 The queue of antique cars at the
fair attracted many admirers.
• queue [kju] a braid of hair worn dangling at the back of the
neck. D Mary wore her hair in a queue interwoven with colorful
ribbons.
currant- current
currant ['ki)'-�nt]
• the small, berrylike fruit of several shrubs.
o I ate almost every currant I picked!
current ['ki)'-�nt]
• up-to-date; presently acceptable or prac
0 The man prides himself on his knowledge of current
ticed.
world events. 0 The current medical procedure for curing that
ailment is really quite simple.
current ['ki)'-�nt]
• the flow of something in a specific direction.
o Be careful of the strong current in that river.
current See the main entry beginning with curran t.

cymbal- symbol
cymbal ['slmbl] a percussion instrument made of brass that
•
produces a loud, crashing

another cymbal. 0
sound when struck with a stick or
To play the cymbal well, one must have
perfect timing.
bysymbol
•
reason['slmb!] something
of association that stands forThesomething
or resemblance. 0
else
dictator's face
became a symbol of hatred to the oppressed people.
40
dam-damn
dam
• [deem] a structure in a river or a stream preventing the
0
flow of water. The beavers built a dam at the narrowest part
of the river.
• dam [deem] to place a barrier in a river or a stream to restrict
0
the flow of water. If we dam the flow of water upstream, we
can slow the current here.
• dam [deem] the female parent of a horse. 0 The filly's dam
has a strong racing background.
• damn [deem] to condemn someone to punishment. 0 The
court chose to damn the traitor to a lifetime of banishment.
• damn [deem] to bring ruin upon someone or something. 0
The defeat of that issue will damn any chance of further school
improvements.
damn
•
curse. [deem] to condemn someone or something through a

0 "Damn the day my curiosity got the best of me! "
wailed the woman.
damn See the main entry beginning with dam.
days- daze
•days [dez] the plural of day 'the period between sunrise and
0
sunset.' During the summertime, days are much longer than
during the winter.
•days [dez] the plural of day 'a twenty-four hour period.' 0
You will feel better in a couple of days.
•daze [dez] to stun or disorient someone or some creature. 0
Repeated blows to the head began to daze the tired but deter
mined boxer.
• daze 0 Severe jet lag seems to
[dez] a state of disorientation.
41
daze
put some travelers in a daze.

daze See the main entry beginning with days.
dear- deer
dear [dlac] highly valued; precious.
• 0
My grandmother's an
tique locket is very dear to me.
dear [dlac] costly; expensive.
• 0
For some people, the price
paid for personal freedom is dear indeed.
dear [dlac] a loved one.
• (A 0
term of address.) Now, my dear,
what may I do for you ?
deer [dlac] a wild, swift-running animal having hooves and
•
antlers in all males and the females of some species. Each 0

year, the same deer munches on my father's garden.
deer See the main entry beginning with dear.
demur- demure
demur [dI'mjac] to object; to make an objection.
• 0
I appre
ciate your suggestion but I must demur. That is the wrong
approach.
• demure
[dI'mjur] modest; coyly decorous. 0 The demure
young priest was very precise in his homily.
demure See the main entry beginning with dem ur.
dense - dents
dense [dEnts] thick; closely grown.
• 0
Although Harold has a
dense head of hair, his brother Hank is nearly bald.
dense [dEnts] dull; stupid.
• 0
In the movie, that character is a
dense, bumbling door-to-door salesman.
dents [dEnts] the plural of dent 'an indentation or hollow
•
0
made by a blow.' The autobody shop was able to repair all of
the dents in the car's bumper.
dental - dentil
dental
• 0 One
['dEnt;:)l] having to do with teeth or dentistry.
of the fringe benefits of that job is a complete dental insurance
plan.
dental
•
the back['dEnt�l] pronounced

of the upper with the tip of the tongue
0 The sounds
front teeth. d against
and t are
said to be dental because of the way they are spoken.
dentil
• ['dEnt�l] a small, rectangular decorative block project
ing below a cornice or overhang on a building. (Architectural.)
o A dentil had fallen here and there, but the look of the old
building was still pleasant.
dentil See the main entry beginning with den tal.
42
desert- dessert
dents See the main entry beginning with dense.
dependence- dependents
•dependence [d;)'pend;)nts] the state or quality of relying on
0
someone or something else. Children remain in a state of
complete dependence on their parents for many years.
•dependents [d;)'pend;)nts] the plural of dependent 'someone
who relies upon someone else for support.' How many 0
dependents do you claim on your federal and state income tax ?
dependents See the main entry beginning with dependence.
depravation - deprivation
•depravation [dEpr;)'veSn] corruption or downfall. Associa0
tion with the wrong people seemingly caused the depravation of
the innocent woman.
• deprivation [dEpr;)'veSn]
losing or removing something. 0
Deprivation offood and clothing made their existence miserable.
deprivation See the main entry beginning with depravation.
descension -dissension
• descension [d;)'senSn] the process of going from a higher
0
rank, status, or altitude to a lower one. The wrestler's
sudden descension in the tournament 's ranking was a shock
to his teammates.
• dissension [d;)'senSn, dI'senSn] quarreling; disagreement of
opinion. 0 The issue of promotion and seniority caused much
dissension among the office workers. 0 There was little dis
sension among the Supreme Court justices regarding that case.
descent - dissent
• descent [d;)'sent] a movement downward. 0 The hikers '
descent of the mountainside was slow and tedious.
• descent [d;)'sent] birth; lineage. 0 Otis MacFarland can
trace his descent back many centuries to some very old Scottish
families.
• dissent [d.'sent] to withhold agreement from someone or
something. 0 I will exercise my right to dissent on that
particular issue.
• dissent [dI'sent] 0 The representa
a difference of opinion.
tive 's dissent was noted in the minutes.
desert- dessert
•desert ['dEZa'-t] a hot, dry area of land, usually covered with
0 There is hardly any life in the sands of the desert.
sand.
•desert [d;)'za'-t] to leave or abandon someone or something
43
dessert
D
on purpose. Rather than stay and fight, the soldiers chose
instead to desert their units.
dessert [d;)'z<3't] the last course of a meal, usually something
o
0
sweet. His favorite dessert is black walnut cake.
dessert See the main entry beginning with desert.
dew-do - due
dew [du, dju] the moisture that condenses on a cool surface,
o
usually during the night. D As temperatures continue to drop,

the dew on the grass will soon become frost.
do [du] to perform something; to carry something out. D Do
o
your chores first, and then you 'll have plenty of time for other
activities.
o due [du, dju] owed or owing a debt, moral obligation, or
as
right. D The electric bill is due on the 15th of each month. D
My final paper is due on the last day of class.
die - dye
odie D Certain insects die a day or so
[dOl] to cease to live.
after hatching.
odie [dOl] to expire.D If not acted upon, the bill will die in
committee.
odie [ down] D I wish the
[dOl] to decrease gradually; to stop.
wind would die down so I can rake these leaves.
odie [dOl] a six-sided cube with varying numbers of dots on
each side that D With each roll of the die the
is used in games.
man 's luck seemed to increase.
odie [dOl] a tool or device needed to make shapes, forms, or
D The die used for casting that part has cracked and
surfaces.
can no longer be used.
odye [dOl] to change the color of something.D Everyone will
notice ifyou dye your blond hair black.
odye [dOl] an agent used to change the color of something. D
The purple dye would not wash off his hands.
disburse - disperse
disburse
o D
[dIS'b<3's, dJ'sp<3's] to pay out money from a fund.
Our company will disburse bonus checks at the end of the year.
disburse
o D She re
[dIS'b<3's, dJ'sp<3's] to distribute something.
quested that her attorney disburse her estate's assets according
to her will.
disperse
o D Police
[dI'SP<3'S] to scatter or break up something.
officers tried in vain to disperse the unruly mob.
disperse
o [dI'SP<3'S] to spread or distribute something evenly
from a ftxed source. D Prisms disperse sunlight in unusual
44
does- doze
and beautiful patterns.

discreet - discrete
• discreet [dl'skrit] having the ability to show good judgment,
0 A
especially in conduct and speech. job that involves
handling confidential information requires a discreet employee.
• discrete [dl'skrit] distinct or separate. 0
Though quite simi
lar in appearance, the twins each have a discrete personality.
discrete See the main entry beginning with discreet.
disinterested -uninterested
• disinterested [dls'mtnstld] free from personal motive or
0
interest. Let 's ask a disinterested third party to help settle
this dispute.
• uninterested [�n'mtflStld] not interested. 0
The bored audi-
ence was obviously uninterested in what the speaker was saying.
disperse See the main entry beginning with disburse.
dissension See the main entry beginning with descension.
dissent See the main entry beginning with descent.
do See the main entry beginning with dew.
doe- dough
• doe [do] a female deer. 0The doe /licked her ears and tail
nervously while her fawns ate nearby.
• doe [do] a female of most species where the male is called a
buck. 0Ginny won first prize in the rabbit competition at the
fair with her pet doe, Flopsy.
• dough [do] a mixture of flour, liquid, and other ingredients,
usually used for breads, cookies, and pie crusts. My sister's 0
recipe for homemade bread dough is easy to make.
• dough [do] money. (Slang.) 0
"Hey, man, can you give me
some dough ? " asked the beggar.
does- doze
does
• [doz] the plural of doe 'a female deer or other female
animal 0
where the male is called a buck.' In the wild, the
number of does outweighs the number of bucks.
• does [d�z] the third person singular of do 'to perform an act.'
o He does what he is told.
• doze [d�z] to fall into a light, unintentional sleep. 0
I doze in
front ofthe television set each night during the news.
• doze [doz] to bulldoze something. 0 A work crew will doze
the site of the demolished building.
45
done- dun
done- dun
done
o do
[d;)n] the past participle of 'to perform an act.' 0
After you have done the filing, please type this letter.
done
o [d;)n] completed; finished. 0 When the candy ther
mometer reads 250 degrees, you 'll know that the mixture is done
simmering.
dun
o [d;)n] a horse of a neutral light brown color. D At the
riding stable, Jane was given a dun mare to ride.
dun
o [d;)n] marked by drabness or dullness. 0 The dun color
of the room wasn 't very attractive.
dun
o [d;)n] to hound someone for the payment of a debt. D If
you do not pay your bills, they will dun you until you do.
dough See the main entry beginning with doe.
doze See the main entry beginning with does.
draft -draught
draft [drreft] to draw up or design something.
o 0
We were
asked to draft a document listing our goals for the projects.
draft [drreft] capable of pulling a load or doing heavy labor.
o
0
(Usually said of horses.) The team of draft horses strained
under the heavy weight of the load.
draft [drreft] to inhale or swallow something.
o 0
Henry can
draft an entire stein of beer in one long gulp.
draft [drreft] to selectively choose someone or something for
o
0
a particular purpose. The college football coach is hoping to
draft some of the top prep players for his team.
draft [drreft] a current of air entering a closed space.
o 0
The
cold draft coming under the door made sitting in the room most
uncomfortable.
o draught [drreft] a move in a chess or checkers game. 0 As
usual, Terry defeated me in chess by a clever draught that I
missed.
draught See the main entry beginning with draft.
dual- duel
dual [dul, djul] two; double.
o 0
The hot-rod car has dual ex
haust pipes. 0
Psychiatrists spend a good deal of time studying
patients with dual personalities.
duel [dul, djul] a confrontation between two armed combat
o
ants, usually to settle an argument. (Duels are now illegal, )

o A well-known duel in American history involved Alexander
Hamilton and Aaron Burr.
o duel [dul, djul] a conflict of interest, persons, forces, or ideas.
46
dye
D The two courtroom attorneys were locked in a duel of minds.

ducked - duct
oducked [d�kt] the past tense and past participle of duck 'to
push someone or something under water.' D The children
ducked one another during a game in the pool.
o ducked [d�kt] the past tense and past participle of duck 'to
hide from or avoid someone or something.' D He ducked before
the intended blow landed on his head.
o duct [d�kt] a passageway through which something travels.
D The air duct carries warm air in the winter and cool air in
the summer. D Julie had to go to the doctor because she had an
infection in her left tear duct.
duct See the main entry beginning with ducked.
due See the main entry beginning with dew.
duel See the main entry beginning with dual.
dun See the main entry beginning with done.
dye See the main entry beginning with die.
47
earn-urn
earn [3'n]
• to receive payment or reward in return for work
0
that one has done. Jenny hopes to earn enough money to pay
her own way through college. 0 Three young men in that scout
pack will soon earn the rank ofEagle Scout.
• urn [3'n] a vessel with a pedestal used for planting flowers or
preserving ashes following cremation. 0 The urn on the patio
contains geraniums and marigolds. 0 The urn on the mantle
contains the remains of Uncle Herman.
eave -eve
eave [iv]
•
hangs a walla low,

and isusually separate
designed borderoff ofwater.
to funnel a roof that
0
over
When the
antenna blew off the roof, it badly dented an eave.
• eve [iv] the evening or day before a special event. 0 On the
eve of her wedding, Jane was nervous andjittery.
• eve [iv] the period immediately preceding something. 0
During the eve of the American Civil War, tensions between the
North and South steadily increased.
edition See the main entry beginning with addition.
effect See the main entry beginning with affect.
eight See the main entry beginning with ate.
elicit-illicit
•elicit [;)'hSIt] to bring something out; to draw something
0
forth. Will you help me elicit support among your friends for
this cause ?
•illicit [I' IIStt] illegal; unlawful. 0
The illicit sale of drugs is a
48
ewe -yew-you
major problem in many cities.

elusion See the main entry beginning with allusion.
eminent -imminent
eminent ['Emm;)nt] noted for position, rank, or achievement.
•
o The eminent author won many Newbery Awards for his

children 's books.
• eminent ['Emm;)nt] conspicuous; readily noticeable. 0 The
comedian ridiculed the politician 's eminent nose.
• imminent ['Imm;)nt] soon to happen or take place. 0 The
prisoner on death row knew his execution was imminent.
ensure-insure
•ensure [m'.fu<3'] to guarantee something; to make certain of
0 I will ensure your safe arrival at your destination.
something.
insure [m'.fu<3']
• to acquire or give insurance for; to make
0 Be sure to insure your new motorcycle before driving
certain.
it. 0 I will send the letter first class to insure that it arrives as
soon as possible.
epic-epoch
epic ['Eplk]
• long in length or scope. 0 The epic novel gave
several viewpoints of the conquest of the American West.
epoch ['Ep;)k]
• an eventor ordevelopment.
period of time noted as the begin
ning of a new period 0 With Eli Whitney's
invention of interchangeable parts, the epoch of industrializa
tion began in earnest.
epoch ['Ep;)k]
• a geological time span. 0 We studied the
Miocene epoch in great depth in my geology class.
epoch See the main entry beginning with p e ic.
err See the main entry beginning with air.
erred See the main entry beginning with aired.
eve See the main entry beginning with eave.
ewe-yew-you
•ewe Uu] a female sheep or related animal. 0
It is not at all
unusual for a ewe to bear triplets or even quadruplets.
•yew Uu] a type of evergreen tree or shrub that has stiff
0
needles and is often used in landscaping. The tiny yew he
planted many years ago has grown into a beautiful tree.
•you Uu] the second person pronoun that refers to the person
0
or persons being addressed. Would you care to join me for a
cup of coffee ?
49
ewes-use-yews
ewes-use-yews
ewes Guz]
• ewe
the plural of 'a female sheep or related animal.'
o After lambing, the ewes stay close to their young.
use G uz]
• to utilize or employ someone or something. 0 That
contracting business does not use unskilled laborers.
use Guz]
• to expend or consume something. 0 Jeff uses as
much solar energy as possible to heat his home.
yews Guz]
• yew
the plural of 'a type of evergreen tree or shrub
that has stiff needles.' 0 Don lined the borders of his property
with yews to serve as a windbreak.
eye See the main entry beginning with aye.
eyed-I'd
eyed [Old] the past tense and past participle of eye 'to look or
•
glance 0
at someone or something.' The little girl eyed the
colorful hair ribbons longingly.
eyed [Old] the condition of having eyes.
• 0
Most of the Dutch
children in that community are blue-eyed blondes.
I'd [Old] a contraction of I had, I would, or I should.
• 0
If I'd
known you were coming, I'd have tidied up the house a bit.
50
facts -fax
• facts [f�kts] the plural of fact 'a piece of information that
can 0
be proven.' After we examine all the facts, we 'll make a
decision.
• 0
fax [f�ks] an electronic facsimile transmission. The realtor
agreed to accept the fax of the offer as legal and binding.
• fax [f�ks] to transmit a facsimile by wire. 0 George 's busi
ness is much more efficient now that he is able to fax information
to his clients.
• fax [f�ks] a machine used for electronic facsimile transmis
sions. 0 I decided to buy a fax when they went on sale.
faint-feint
•faint [fent] to lose consciousness. 0 Sally will faint at the
mere sight of blood.
•faint [fent] feeling weak, dizzy, or lightheaded. 0 He felt
faint for days after suffering the head injury.
•faint [fent] lacking courage or spirit. 0 Skydiving is no
hobby for a faint individual.
•feint [fent] a trick; a deception. 0 The player's double feint
completely caught her opponent offguard.
•feint [fent] to pretend to do something, usually attack, as a
means of distraction.0 The battalion will feint at the enemy's
left flank but then attack the right.
fair-fare
•fair [fE3'-] 0 The fair maiden caught the
attractive; beautiful.
eye of the knight in shining armor.
•fair [fE3'-] honest and impartial.0 That judge is known for
his fair decisions.
51
fairy-ferry
· fair [fEa-] blond or light complexioned. 0 Many Scandinavians

are fair and have blue eyes.
• fair [fEa-] clear. 0 The weather during our week-long vaca
tion was fair and warm.
• fair [fEa-] just and equal. 0 It is important that everyone does
his or her fair share of the work.
• fair [fEa-] a competitive exhibition. 0 Each year Mary's baked
goods win blue ribbons at the fair.
· fair [fEa-] a gathering of buyers and sellers. 0 The computer
fair was attended by people from all around the world.
· fare [fEa-] a range of available food. 0 I know a terrific
restaurant that specializes in superb Italian fare.
• fare [fEa-] the price charged to transport something or some
one. 0 The roundtrip fare was less costly than buying two
one-way tickets.
• fare [fEa-] to get along; to succeed. 0 Mr. Smith hopes that
each of his children will fare well in life.
fairy -ferry
•fairy ['fEa-i] a tiny, mythical being said to possess magical
powers.0 In the movie "Peter Pan, " Tinkerbell is a somewhat
mischievous fairy.
fairy ['fEa-i]
ally derogatory.a male
) with effeminate mannerisms. (Slang. Usu
•
0 While some students at school called Dave a

fairy, his friends knew him to be quite masculine.
•ferry ['fEa-i] a vessel used to transport goods or people over
water; a
0
place
water. Visitors wherecanpeople or objects are transported across
reach the island only by the ferry that
crosses the bay twice daily. 0 At the ferry you can catch a boat
that will take you on a sightseeing trip.
· ferry ['fEa-i] to convey or move something or someone from
one place to another. 0 Volunteers will ferry the refugees across
the border in private vehicles.
false -faults
•false [bls] not real or genuine; imitation.0 Grandpa was
always forgetting where he put his false teeth.
•false [f::>ls] intentionally misleading or untrue. 0 She pur
posely made false statements to try to discredit her employer.
•false [bls] impermanent. 0 The library contained a false
wall that led into a secret room.
·faults [f::>lts] fault
the plural of 'a weakness, failing, or im
perfection.' 0 While Bob 's faults may be many, we still think
highly of him.
•faults [bIts] the plural of fault 'a fracture in the earth's
52
feat -feet -fete
crust.' 0 Most of California 's earthquakes occur along one of

several faults in the state.
fare See the main entry beginning with fair.
farther-further
•farther ['foa'-oa'-] AND further ['fa'-oa'-] 0
a greater distance.
The trip from the village to the mountain resort was farther
than I thought it would be.
•further ['fa'-Oa'-] additional. 0 I won 't bore you with further
details.
•further ['fa'-Oa'-] to help someone or something progress for-
ward. 0 Bill hopes to further his education by attending college.
faults See the main entry beginning with false.

fax See the main entry beginning with facts.
faze-phase
an
•
offazesomeone
[fez] to make impression
or something. 0
on or disturb the composure
I doubt that a formal reprimand
will even faze Thomas.
• phase [fez] 0
a stage or interval in a cycle or development.
The next phase of the project involves the approval of the board
of commissioners.
• phase [fez] to schedule something to occur or to be per
formed. 0 The major automobile makers will phase out their
poorest selling models.
feat -feet-fete
• feat [fit] a The
notable deed, especially one involving great skill or
courage. 0 circus elephant accomplished a most difficult
feat.
• feet [fit] the plural of foot 'the part of the body at the end of
0
the leg.' The wobbly colt was barely able to stay on its feet
immediately after being born.
• feet [fit] the plural of foot 'the vertical supports of a leg or a
0
chair.' I constantly bump the feet of the chair when I sweep
the floor.
• feet [fit] the plural of foot 'a unit of length measuring twelve
inches.' 0The board was six feet long.
• fete AND fete [fet, fft] an elaborate, large party to commemo
0
rate or honor someone or something. A fete recognizing his
contributions to literature is scheduled for next month.
• fete AND fete [fet, fft] to honor someone or something. 0
Her co-workers will fete her new sales record at a special
luncheon.
53
feet
feet See the main entry beginning with feat.

feint See the main entry beginning with fain t.
ferry See the main entry beginning with fairy.
fete See the main entry beginning with feat.
feudal-futile
feudal ['fjudl] having to do with feudalism, an ancient politi
o
orcaltribute.
system where
0
land tenure is granted in exchange for loyalty
In feudal England, serfs did most of the farming.
futile ['fjutl, 'fjudl] useless; hopeless.
o 0His futile attempt to
catch the falling vase caused him to sprain his back.
find-fined
find [famd]
o to discover someone or something. 0 I hope to
find some unusual seashells on the beach.
find [famd]
o to arrive at or reach something.0 Labor and
management hope to find solutions to their disagreement.
find [famd]
o to determine the judicial guilt or innocence of an
0 We think the jury will find the accused not
accused person.
guilty.
fined [famd] fine
o
charge a sum ofthemoney

past tense
as
and pastforparticiple
punishment an offense.'of 'to
0 John
was fined fifty dollars for parking illegally in a handicapped
parking space.
fined See the main entry beginning with find.
fir-fur
fir [fa'-] a type of coniferous tree, such the pine or evergreen.
o as
oThe Christmas tree we bought was a beautifully shaped fir.
fir [fa'-] the wood of a coniferous tree such as a fir or ever
o
0
green. Rick made the table out of some planks of discarded
fir.
fur [fa'-] the hairy coat of an animal.
o 0
Sable pelts are a very
valuable fur.
fur [fa'-] a clothing article made with fur.
o 0
Jane hung her
fur in the cedar-lined closet.
fisher-fissure
fisher ['fISa'-]
o a dark brown carnivorous mammal belonging
0
to the weasel family. The strange animal we saw may have
been a fisher.
o fissure ['fISa'-] a crack or narrow opening resulting from break
0
age or separation. That fissure in the sidewalk was probably
caused by frost.
54
flew-flu-flue
• fissure ['fIJa--]
a disagreement in viewpoint. 0 Because of
their fissure on that issue, the men argue constantly.
fissure See the main entry beginning with fisher.
flair-flare
·flair [flEa--] natural aptitude for something. D Christy has a
real flair for interior design.
·flair [flEa--] an odor. D The flair of the skunk seemed to be
apparent for miles around.
•flare [flEa--] a blaze or flame of fire or light used as a signal
D
to attract attention. Mike has never needed to use the
emergency flare he carries in his car.
· flare [flEa--] to burn or shine with an unsteady flame or
sudden light. D A fire in the fireplace will sometimes flare up if
a sudden draft occurs.
· flare [flEa--]
to suddenly become angry, excited, or more in
tense. 0 If you mention that incident, Brad 's temper will flare.
flare See the main entry beginning with flair.
flaunt-flout
·flaunt [fl::mt] to make a gaudy or defiant display of something.
D
Even though he is extremely rich, Dr. Shear does not flaunt
his wealth.
·flout [flout] to mock or show disrespect for someone or some
0
thing. The poacher continues to flout the "No Trespassing "
signs as he hunts on my property.
flea-flee
·flea [fli] a flightless, bloodsucking insect that feeds on warm
blooded animals. D The dog wears a special collar to protect it
from fleas and other parasites.
·flee [fli] to run away from danger. D The refugees had to flee
their war-torn nation.
flee See the main entry beginning with flea.
flew-flu -flue
[flu] the past tense of fly 'to move through the air, often
·
onflewwings.' D The swallows flew swiftly and gracefully in the

a£r.
· flew [flu] fly D
the past tense of 'to move rapidly or swiftly.'
The skiers flew down the steep slopes on the new snow.
· flew [flu] fly an
the past tense of 'to operate airplane.' D The
pilot flew the airplane skillfully.
· flu [flu] influenza. 0 The school closed because so many
55
floe -flow
children were home sick with the flu.

flue
•
vey or[flu]channel
an enclosed tube, pipe, or passageway used to con
D The chimney 's flue was blocked
something.
by a squirrel 's nest.
floe-flow
floe
• [flo] a large sheet of floating ice on the surface of water.
D Polar bears will sometimes swim out to a floe to eat or rest.
flow
• D Due to the
[flo] to circulate or move about easily.
crowded conditions in the building, air does not flow as it
should. D Traffic does not flow smoothly during rush hour.
flow
• [flo] to move in a stream or flood, especially water. D
The river will flow much faster after the snow melts in the
mountains.
flounder-founder
flounder ['flounda--]
• to make awkward attempts to move or
gain balance; to move clumsily or in confusion. D I hated to see
the beached dolphin flounder about on the shore. D Turn on the
lights so we don 't flounder about in the darkness.
• flounder ['flounda--] D
a flat-bodied fish often used for food.
Jack ordered stuffed flounder for dinner.
• founder ['founda--] a person who founds or establishes some
thing. D Mr. Brown was the founder of the local historical
society.
• founder ['[ounda--] to give way, collapse, or become disabled.
D The weight of its pack caused the mule to founder.
• founder ['[ounda-- l to sink beneath the surface of water. D
Several ships began to founder during the terrible storm.
flour-flower
flour [' floua--]
• a finely ground grain meal used for baking or
D Sarah uses whole wheat flour to make her home
cooking.
made bread braids.
flour ['floua--]
• D Be sure to grease
to cover something in flour.
and flour the bottom and sides of the baking dish.
flower ['floua--]
• D The
a plant usually grown for its blossoms.
flower in his lapel was a red carnation.
flower floua--]
• [' D Most desert cacti flower
to produce flowers.
in late spring.
flower ['floua--]
• D Despite her tomboy
to flourish or develop.
appearance, Casey will eventually flower into a young lady.
flout See the main entry beginning with flaun t.
flow See the main entry beginning with floe.
56
foreword -forward
flower See the main entry beginning with flour.

flu See the main entry beginning with fl e w.
flue See the main entry beginning with fl e w.
foaled-fold
•foaled [fold] the past tense and past participle of foal 'to give
birth to a newborn horse, donkey, or mule.' D The racehorse
foaled last year.
•fold [fold] a flock of sheep or an enclosure for such. D The
fold has never been attacked by coyotes.
•fold [fold] one part of something laid over another part. D
The fold of her skirt concealed the torn seam.
•fold [fold] to intertwine the fingers of both hands. D Fold
your hands and bow your head when saying grace at the dinner
table.
• fold [fold]
to bring to an end or to fail. D Without further
financial support, the company will surely fold.
fold See the main entry beginning with foaled.
for-fore -four
•for [ba'-] a preposition indicating purpose or function. D The
outside fork at a place setting is for the meal while the inside
fork is for dessert.
• for [ba'-]
to be in support of someone or something. D Uncle
Ray is always for any type of law that favors small businesses.
• for [fJa'] (A
representing someone or something. preposition.)
D The speaker said, "I am here for Senator Young who was
unable to attend this evening. "
• fore [ba'-] (A
occupying a front or leading position. prefix.) D
The dining car is located in the forepart of the train.
• fore [ba'-] (A
"Look out!" golf term used to warn other
players that a ball is being struck, possibly in their direction.)
D Marilyn yelled "fore " when she saw that her tee shot was
headed toward the golfers ahead of her.
•four [ba'-] the number between three and five. D "Can we
play euchre with more than four people ? " asked Pete.
fore See the main entry beginning with for.
foreword -forward
•foreword ['fJa'-wa'-d] the introductory remarks of a writer or
D
speaker. In the foreword of the safety manual, the writers
explain the purpose of the text.
•forward ['fJa'-Wa'-d] being near or at the front of something.
57
formally-formerly
o The foot soldiers were forward of the medical and supply

units.
• forward ['f;)<3'wa'd]unabashed; brash. D He has always been
a forward young man.
• forward ['f;)<3'wa'd]to advance or send something along. 0 I
hope the post office will forward this letter if the address has
changed.
• forward ['f;)<3'w<3'd]
getting ready for or relating to the future.
o Matt's forward thinking has saved his company a great deal
of money.
• forward ['f;)<3'wa'd]an offensive player on various types of
sports teams. 0 The team 's forward set a new school point
record at last Friday night's basketball game.
formally-formerly
formally ['f;)<3'm;}li]
• 0
carried out in a ceremonial fashion.
The pioneering scientist will formally receive her award in
three months.
formerly ['f;)<3'm<3'li]
• 0 Our neighbors were
in times past.
formerly stationed in Bangkok, Thailand, before being re
assigned to San Diego, California.
formerly See the main entry beginning with formally.
forth-fourth
•forth [b3'6] onward or outward in time, place, or order. 0
Step forth into the light where I can see you better.
•fourth [b<3'8] the ordinal number between third and fifth. 0
The huge jumbo jet was fourth in line to take off on the runway.
fourth [b<3'8] one quarter of a whole.
• 0
Almost a fourth of
her newly planted garden was eaten by rabbits.
forward See the main entry beginning with foreword.
foul -fowl
foul [foul] offensive to the senses.
• 0When we entered the
room, we detected a foul odor.
foul [foul] profane; obscene.
• 0 That coach will not tolerate
foul language from his players.
•foul [foul] treacherous. 0 Due to the foul weather, we can
celled the dinner cruise aboard the yacht.
foul [foul] an infringement of the rules in a game or sport.
• 0
Neither Donald nor Russell committed a single foul during the
basketball game.
• fowl [foul] a member of the bird family, usually used for
food.0 The wild turkey is an interesting fowl to observe.
58
friar-fryer
o fowl [foul]
the meat of birds eaten as food. 0 While Mr.
Smith prefers red meat, his wife would rather eat fowl.
founder See the main entry beginning with flounder.
four See the main entry beginning with for.
fourth See the main entry beginning with forth.
fowl See the main entry beginning with o l. fu
frays-phrase
ofrays [frez] the plural of fray 'a raveled or worn area of
0
fabric.' Trim the frays off the edge of that material before
mending it.
ofrays [frez] the present tense, third person singular of fray
'to cause a strain on something; to wear at something.' 0
Helen is such a sensitive person that even an unkind remark
frays her self-esteem.
o phrase [frez] a grammatical sequence of words. 0 An over
used, trite phrase is called a cliche. 0 The first sentence of the
novel began with the phrase, "To dream the dream of kings . . . . "
o phrase [frez] 0 Be careful how you
to form an utterance.
phrase your questions.
frees-freeze -frieze
ofrees [friz] the present tense, third person singular of free
0
'to liberate someone or something.' Not having to work on
Saturday frees Sam to spend time on his hobbies.
o freeze [friz] to use cold to cause a liquid to solidify or a solid
0
to harden. You must freeze water to make ice cubes.
o freeze [friz] to become chilled with cold. 0"Let's hurry
inside before we freeze, " said Sandy.
o freeze [friz] to become flxed or motionless. 0
When the
suspect began running away, the police officer yelled "Freeze!"
o freeze [friz] a weather condition marked by cold tempera
tures. 0 The late spring freeze ruined the citrus crop.
o frieze [friz] a coarse, durable fabric made with wool and
0
other flbers. A sweater made of frieze may not be attractive,
but it certainly is warm.
o frieze [friz] an ornamental, usually sculptured, trim on a
0
building. The frieze around the mansion 's entryway was
typical of the 1 920 's.
freeze See the main entry beginning with frees.
friar-fryer
ofriar ['frOI3'-] a male member of some types of religious orders.
59
frieze
D Why do we usually picture a friar wearing a long, dark,

hooded cloak ?
• fryer ['frOIa'-]
a young chicken. D While a fryer is usually a
young bird, a stewing chicken is normally older and tougher.
• fryer ['frOIa'-]
a cooking pot or pan used to fry foods. D Pat
slowly simmered the meat and vegetables in the fryer.
frieze See the main entry beginning with frees.
fryer See the main entry beginning with friar.
fur See the main entry beginning with fir.
further See the main entry beginning with farther.
futile See the main entry beginning with feudal.
60
gait - gate
• gait [get] a manner of walking or moving on foot. 0 He moves
in an easy, natural gait, never hurrying but never dallying
either.
• gait [get] one of the four foot movements or strides of a
horse.0 I prefer riding a horse whose gait is a canter.
• gait [get] to lead a show dog before ajudge to display its form
and movement. 0 In showmanship classes, each dog handler
is asked to gait his animal in front ofthejudges.
• gate [get] a doorlike closure for an opening in a wall or fence;
a place of entrance or exit.0 The rickety fence gate has almost
fallen off its hinges. 0 To find the concession stand at the park,
go through the front gate and turn left.
• gate [get] the totalevent.
number of spectators or admission re
ceipts at a sporting 0 The gate at the final game of the
World Series set a new attendance record.
gamble- gambol
gamble ['grembl]
• to play a game for money or some other
stakes. 0 Don 't gamble away your life 's savings at the casino.
gamble ['grembl]
• to wager or venture that something will or
will not happen. 0 He was willing to gamble that his ideas
would succeed.
gamble ['grembl]
• something risky or chancy. 0 The rescuers
knew their daring lifesaving attempt was a gamble.
gambol ['grembl]
• to play, romp, or move about in a frisky
manner. 0 It was fun to watch the new calves gambol about
in the pasture.
gambol See the main entry beginning with gamble.
61
gate
gate See the main entry beginning with gait.

gel -jell
gel [d3£1] to congeal in a more solid form but not become
•
0
solid. As the soup cools, the fat in it will begin to gel.
gel [d3£1] a substance having a gelatinlike consistency.
• 0
That medication comes in both a lotion and a gel.
jell
• gel [d3£1] to solidify into jelly or gelatin.
AND 0
The des
sert is about to gel. 0 We put the dessert mix in the refrigerator
to jell.
• jell [d3£1] to become established and certain. 0 In order for
the plan to work, everything must jell at precisely the right time.
genes-jeans
genes [d3inz]
• the plural of gene 'the part of a chromosome
0
that contains hereditary characteristics. ' Genes that deter
mine brown eyes are dominant over genes that determine blue
eyes.
• jeans [d3inz] blue jeans; denim trousers of any color, con
Genoa
cotton denim or twill blue
structed to resemble
jeans to the picnic.
jeans. (Originally from
0 Almost every student wore
fabric.') 'a
gild - guild
•gild [gIld] to cover something with a thin layer of gold. 0
The goldsmith thought he should gild the piece of jewelry to
make it brighter and more attractive.
•gild [gIld] to wrongly give an attractive appearance to some
0 The crooked politicians tried to gild the poor financial
thing.
status of their city.
·guild [gIld] a group of people with common interests or aims.
o The potter's guild puts on a show and sale each year.
gilt - guilt
·gilt [gIlt] 0 The hog farmer has an
a young female swine.
especially fine gilt for sale.
·gilt [gIlt] 0 At the
a layer of gold or gold paint on something.
plant, we saw a machine apply gilt to the edges of books.
·gilt [gIlt] covered with gold or a goldlike substance.0 Don
bought an unusual gilt picture frame at the antique auction.
•guilt [gIlt] 0 She felt both
a feeling of blame for an offense.
guilt and shame for having lied to her mother.
•guilt [gIlt] culpability; the fact of having done something
wrong. 0 The defendant's guilt could not be proven beyond a
reasonable doubt.
62
gorilla - guerrilla
gnu-knew-new
•gnu [nul 0
a large African antelope. On her photo safari,
Barb took a picture of a huge gnu.
•knew [nu, nju]
something; to be aware tensetruthof know
the pastof the or facts.''to sense
0
or perceive
I knew I should
have stayed home during the bad storm. 0 The students knew
almost all of the answers on their test.
• knew [nu, nju] the past tense of know 'to be acquainted with
someone or something.' 0 She knew the famous actor when he
was still working at a local restaurant. 0 I knew the taste of
bitter almonds and quickly spat out the bite I had taken.
• new [nu, nj u] recently made or completed. 0 I got a new
paintjob on my car.
• new [nu, nju] unfamiliar; unaccustomed. 0 We hope to see
some new sights on our next visit to the city. 0 Because he was
new to thejob, Greg felt a bit uneasy at first.
golf-gulf
•golf [g;)f, g;)lf] a game played with a ball and clubs on a grassy
0 His dream is to one day play golf at St. Andrews in
course.
Scotland.
•gulf [g;)lf] a part of an ocean or sea reaching into land.0
The boats sailing in the gulf sparkled in the sunlight.
•gulf [g;)lf] 0 Such a gulf exists be
a gap, hole, or distance.
tween their beliefs that an agreement is not possible.
gored- gourd
gored [g;)a'-d]
• the past tense and past participle of gore 'to cut
0
or make something into a triangular shape.' The swirl skirt
was gored with several large pieces of fabric.
• gored [g;)a'-d] the past tense and past participle of gore '[for
an animal] to stab someone or something with its horn or tusk.'
o The bulls sometimes gore spectators during the annual
Corrida de Toros in Pamplona, Spain.
• gourd [g;)a'-d] 0 The
the edible fruit of certain vine families.
Hubbard squash is a type of gourd that can reach huge
proportions.
gorilla - guerrilla
•gorilla [g;)'nl;)] the biggest member of the ape family, found
0 The gorilla has a gentle, kind nature despite its
in Africa.
huge size.
•gorilla [g;)'nl;)] a thug; a large-bodied criminal; a criminal's
bodyguard. (Slang.)0 The boss never went anywhere without a
gorilla to protect him.
63
gourd
• guerrill a [g£'ni;)]
a person who engages in warfare for hire.
D Each guerrilla carried his own simple weapons.
• guerrill a [g£'ni;)]
having to do with irregular warfare by
independent bands. D Guerrilla fighting between warring
clans broke out in Somalia.
gourd See the main entry beginning with gored.
grade- grayed
grade [gred] a level or stage in school. D Cindy moved to a
•
different school after completing fifth grade.

grade [gred] a naval or military rank. D An admiral is a
•
naval officer of very high grade.

grade [gred] a class indicating the size or quality of goods for
•
sale. D A recipe may call for a certain grade ofeggs.

grade [gred] the angle or degree of a slope. D The steep grade
•
of the mountainside made traveling dangerous in bad weather.

grade [gred] having to do with an animal of mixed parentage;
•
a purebred animal crossed with an ordinary animal. D Stacey

wanted a purebred horse but could only afford a grade animal.
grayed [gred] the past tense and past participle of gray 'to
•
become gray.' D Although none became bald, all of the men in

our family grayed at an early age.
grate - great
grate [gret]
• a framework of bars designed to prevent the
passage of someone or something. D Each hallway was fitted
with an iron grate at its entrance.
• grate [gret] an iron cradle used in stoves and fireplaces to
hold what is to be burned. D Sweep the ashes from under the
grate before you build another fire.
• grate [on] [gret] to bother someone; to irritate someone's
nerves. D Her annoying habits grate on my nerves. D Your
loud voice grates on me!
• grate [gret] to make a harsh, scratching, or grinding sound.
D When the machinery isn 't working properly, the moving
parts grate noisily.
• grate [gret] to reduce something to pieces by rubbing it with
something coarse. D Let 's grate the cheese before putting it on
the pizza.
• great [gret] large; big. D The huge emperor shifted his great
form with much difficulty. D Great numbers ofpeople appeared
at the grand opening ceremony.
• great [gret] remarkable; famous; distinguished.D The sales
man went to great lengths to please his customers. D Many
64
grisly- grizzly
great athletes never become professional players.

• great [gret] a generation removed in a family relationship.
o My great-grandmother was a Chippewa Indian.
grayed See the main entry beginning with grade.

grays- graze
•grays [grez] the present tense, third person singular of gray
0
'to become gray; to become dull or colorless.' A white shirt
grays if it is not washed regularly in hot water with bleach.
•grays [grez] the plural of gray 'a gray horse.' 0
The pair of
grays looked smart pulling the old-fashioned carriage.
•graze [grez] to feed randomly on grasses. 0
Sheep require a
lot of open land on which to graze.
•graze [grez] to touch something lightly in passing. Do not 0
graze your shirt sleeves on the freshly painted walls. 0 The
bullet did no more than graze the surface of the skin.
graze See the main entry beginning with grays.
great See the main entry beginning with grate.
greave- grieve
•greave [griv] a piece of armor worn below the knee. The 0
knight lost a greave during thejoust.
•grieve [griv] to feel a sense of sorrow, distress, or suffering.
o
It is normal to grieve over the loss of a loved pet.
grieve See the main entry beginning with greave.
grill- grille
•grill [grIl] a cooking surface on which food is exposed to
0
direct heat. Tom cooked our steaks on the grill.
•grill [grIt] to cook on a grill. 0I like to grill hamburgers and
hot dogs outside in the summertime.
•grill [grIt] a restaurant that serves broiled foods. 0
The gas
station that once stood on the corner is now a bar and grill.
•grill [grIl] to question someone heatedly. 0
We will grill the
suspect until we arrive at the truth.
•grille [grIt] a lattice work; a grate that forms a barrier or
0
screen of some type. Ken damaged the grille An on the front of
his new car when he hit the mailbox post. 0 iron grille
covers the front door of the mansion.
grille See the main entry beginning with grill.
grisly- grizzly
•grisly ['gnzli] gory; horrible. 0
Even the seasoned police offi
cers were sickened at the grisly scene.
65
grizzly
grizzly ['gnzli] a large, powerful North American bear known

•
for 0
its ferocity. It is wise to use extreme caution when con
fronted by a grizzly in the wild.
grizzly See the main entry beginning with grisly.
groan- grown
groan [gron] to utter a moaning sound indicating pain,
•
0
annoyance, or grief. The student let out a groan when the
teacher announced yet another quiz.
grown [gron] the past participle of grow 'to develop in matu
•
0
rity, size, or stature.' Sara has grown into a fine young
woman.
grown [gron] the past participle of grow 'to become or to
•
0
cause something to develop or mature.' The economy has
grown sluggish in recent years. 0 Chris is no longer a boy but a
grown man. 0 In order for coffee to be successfully grown, soil
and climate conditions must bejust right.
grown See the main entry beginning with groan.
guerrilla See the main entry beginning with gorilla .
guessed - guest
guessed [g£st] the past tense and past participle of guess 'to
•
form an answer with little or no evidence.' The student 0

guessed the answer and was correct.
guest [g£st] a person invited to some place.
• 0
Our dinner
guest should arrive shortly after six. 0 A well-known celebrity
appears as a guest on the popular talk show each evening.
• guest
[g£st] a patron of a hotel or restaurant. 0 Every guest
at the inn is personally greeted by the innkeeper herself
guest See the main entry beginning with guessed.
guild See the main entry beginning with gild.
guilt See the main entry beginning with gilt.
guise - guys
guise [gOlZ] a manner or style of dress.
• 0
The actress 's guise
is eccentric.
guise [gOlZ] [someone's] outward appearance; a disguise.
• 0
The undercover agent 's guise was that of a beggar.
guys [gOIZ] the plural of guy 'a man or boy; a person.' (Guys
•
can refer to persons of either sex when used in the plural.)

o Those guys always hang around together at the arcade.
66
guys
• guys [gOIZ]
guide.'of guyBe'asure
used as a bracetheorplural 0
lengthto note
of rope, wire, or chain
the location of the
guys on the television antenna.
gulf See the main entry beginning with golf.
guys See the main entry beginning with guise.
67
hail -hale
•hail [hell 0 Hail the size of golf
rain frozen into balls of ice.
balls pelted the spectators during the sudden cloudburst.
•hail [hell a shower of something. 0 A hail of confetti rained
down from the tall buildings during the parade.
·hail [ (up )on] [hell 0 Strong criticism
to pour down like hail.
will probably hail upon the coach if his team loses another
game.
•hail [hel] to call for someone or something. 0 You can hail a
cab from almost any hotel or restaurant in town.
hail [from] [hell
• to come from some place. 0 All of my
college roommates hail from the Midwest.
•hale [hell healthy; sound. 0 Even at age ninety, our next-door
neighbor is as hale as he was twenty years ago.
hair-hare
hair [h£a'-] the external
•
threadlike strands that growbodyout covering of anhead.

of the human animal;Some
0
the
animals grow thick coats of coarse hair during long, harsh
winters. 0 As a child, Mary had blond, curly hair.
• hair [h£a'-]
the width of a hair. 0 We defended our bed race
championship by winning this year's contest by a hair.
• hare [h£a'-]
a type of large rabbit known for its long ears and
large hind legs. 0 The hare circled around trying to put off the
pursuing hounds.
hale See the main entry beginning with hail.
hall-haul
hall [hJl] a lobby or entryway off which other rooms open.
•
68
hangar- hanger
o A dimly lit hall can be frightening to a young child.

• hall [h;)l] a large room used for public meetings. 0 The great
hall in the convention center is the site of many formal
receptions.
· hall [h;)l] a building on a university or college campus. 0 A
university may name a hall after a famous professor.
• haul [h;)l] to transport a burden, usually using a vehicle.0
We haul all of the building supplies in a flatbed truck. 0 A
tractor was used to haul the heavy logs.
• haul [h;)l] to pull something; to redirect something. 0 The
captain ordered the helmsman to haul the bow of the ship into
the wind.
halve-have
halve [hrev] to divide
•
reduce something by onesomething

half. IfintoI halve
0
two equal parts; to
this submarine
sandwich, would you like part of it ? 0 The girls agreed to
halve whatever profits they made selling their baked goods. 0
The business owner is hoping to halve the number of shoplifting
incidents in his store next year.
• have [hrev] to own or possess someone or something. 0 They
have a cottage on the smaller of the two lakes. 0 We have nu
merous friends living in New England. 0 Jerry said, "I have
some terrific news to share with you. " 0 While my siblings all
have dark locks, I have blond hair.
• have [to] [hrev] to have an obligation or feel a necessity to do
something. 0 I have to go to my great-aunt 's birthday party
next Sunday.
• have [hrev] to bear offspring. 0 The couple hopes to have a
child in the near future.
handmade-handmaid
handmade ['hrend'med]
• made by hand, not machined. 0 As
a housewarming gift, she gave the couple a handmade bed quilt.
handmaid ['hrendmed]
• 0 The
a female servant or attendant.
princess has a handmaid to attend to her every whim.
handmaid See the main entry beginning with han dmade.
hangar-hanger
hangar ['hreIJa'-] a shed or building where aircraft are housed
•
0
and repaired. Security is tight around the hangar where the
president's aircraft are kept.
hangar ['hreIJa'-] to put something in a hangar.
• 0
We 'd better
hangar the plane before the storm hits.
hanger ['hreIJa'-] something that is used to hang or suspend
•
69
hanged-hung
something else. 0 After locking his keys inside, Fred used a

wire coat hanger to open his car door.
hanged-hung
hanged [hreIJd]
o the past tense and past participle of hang 'to
put a person to death by suspending the person by the neck.'
o
Thejudge sentenced the convicted murderer to be hanged.
hung [h;:)IJ] the past tense of hang 'to suspend or fasten
o
0
something.' Millie hung a portrait of her mother above the
fireplace.
hanger See the main entry beginning with hangar.
hare See the main entry beginning with hair.
hart -heart
hart [ho3'-t] a mature male deer, especially of the red deer
o
0
species. The hart bounded across the meadow.
heart [ho3'-t] the muscular organ that maintains blood circula
o
0
tion. The patient received a new heart during the transplant
surgery.
heart [ho3'-t] the center or most important part.
o 0
Rather
than skirt the issue, the council members wanted to get to the
heart of the matter.
o heart [ho3'-t]
a playing card bearing red hearts. 0 I trumped
his card with a higher heart.
o heart [ho3'-t]
the center of feeling and sincerity. D She always
speaks from the heart.
haul See the main entry beginning with halJ.
have See the main entry beginning with halve.
hay-hey
hay [he] a mixture of grasses grown for animal feed.
o 0
The
second cutting of hay is always a bit richer than the first.
hay [he] to feed an animal with hay.
o 0
Be sure you hay the
horses twice a day.
hay [he] a bed. (Slang. Always found in the idiom hit the hay.)
o
o
"Let's all hit the hay early tonight, " suggested Dad.
hey [he] an expression used to get someone's attention; a
o
0 0
greeting. "Hey, wait a minute!" cried Louise. "Hey, Fred!
What 's happening ? "
hays-haze
hays [hez]
o the plural of hay 'a mixture of grasses grown for
animal feed. '0 Many different hays were exhibited at the state
fair.
70
heard-herd
o haze [hez] a cloud of fine particles in the air that reduces

visibility. 0 The early morning haze promised that a sultry day
lay ahead.
o haze [hez]
a vagueness of mental perception. 0 A severe
reaction to the prescription left Joe 's mind in a haze.
o haze [hez]
to harass and humiliate someone deliberately. 0
Many fraternities no longer haze new initiates.
haze See the main entry beginning with hays.
heal-heel-he'll
oheal [hit] to cure something; to make something whole. It 0
may take some time for that nasty cut to heal. One cannot0
always heal hurt feelings immediately. 0 Some economists
believe the economy should be left alone to heal itself
o heel [hil] the back of the human foot.0 Bob bruised his heel
playing soccer.
o heel [hi!] the bottom, rear, or low part of some structure.0
Set the heel of the cabinet down and get a better grasp on the
sides.
o heel [hit] 0 My brother and
the crusty end of a loaf of bread.
I always fought over who would get the heel of the bread.
o heel [hit] to follow closely behind or beside someone.0 The
woman made her dog heel before she crossed the busy street.
o he'll [hil] he will. 0 If Doug waits in front
the contraction of
ofthe shop, he 'll see us when we arrive.
hear-here
ohear [hla'-] to perceive something by ear; to listen to someone
0
or something. On a summer's night you can hear the croak
ing of frogs in the distant swamp. 0 Be sure you hear the
teacher's test directions.
o hear [hla'-] to gain information by hearing; to learn something
by hearing. 0 I hear what you 're saying, and I understand the
problem you face.
o here [hla'-] this place; this location. 0 Here in Michigan,
winters can alternately be mild or severe. 0 "Come here at
once, " scolded the naughty child 's father.
o here [hla'-] 0 Please reply
an affirmative reply in a roll call.
"here " when your name is called.
heard-herd
oheard [h3'<l] the past tense and past participle of hear 'to
perceive something by ear; to listen to someone or something;
0
to learn something by hearing.' I distinctly heard him say he
would not be able to attend the seminar. 0 The group heard the
71
heart
speaker as she related her personal safari experiences. 0 We

heard that there will be numerous layoffs at the plant before the
year's end.
• herd [hacd]a group animals of the same species, usually
hoofed animals. 0 The cattle herd will soon be driven to
market. 0 The noise made by the thundering herd of wildebeest
was almost deafening.
• herd [hacd] an unthinking mass of people. (Figurative.) 0 At
the moment the stadium gates opened, the herd of spectators
swarmed in.
• herd [hacd] to assemble things or people into a group. (Literal
for animals. Figurative for people.) 0 Try to herd the sheep
into a corner of the pen. 0 The usher herded my friends and me
into the first row.
heart See the main entry beginning with hart.
he'd-heed
he'd [hid] the contraction of he had or he would.
• 0
If he 'd
studied for the test, he surely would have passed it. I'm sure 0
he 'd do it ifyou would ask him.
heed [hid] to take notice of someone or something.
• I hope0
Tom will heed my warning about the drop-off in the lake.
heed [hid] caution; care. (Almost always with give or take. )
•
o Take heed when pulling out into a busy intersection. 0 Give

heed to my warning.
heed See the main entry beginning with he 'd.
heel See the main entry beginning with heal.
heir See the main entry beginning with air.
he'll See the main entry beginning with heal.
herd See the main entry beginning with heard.
here See the main entry beginning with hear.
heroin- heroine
heroin ['h£acom] a strongly addictive narcotic.
• 0
Cocaine is
now more widely used than heroin.
heroine ['h£acom] a female hero.
• 0
The heroine in that story
is a young poverty-stricken girl. 0 Mother Theresa is a heroine
in most parts of the world.
heroine See the main entry beginning with heroin.
72
hoard-horde
hew-hue
hew [hju]
o to cut, fell, or give form to something with heavy,
cutting blows. D To hew a canoe from a single log is no small
task.
hue [hju] a shade of color. D Her favorite hue of blue is azure.
o
hue [hju] aspect. D Most of Poe's poetry is of a somber hue.

o
hey See the main entry beginning with hay.

hi-high
hi [hoI] an informal greeting or salutation. D "Hi, Grandma.
o
This is Jennifer, " whispered the little girl into the telephone.
high [hOI] raised; elevated. D The high fence kept curiosity
o
seekers from looking in.

high [hOI] sharp; shrill. D Joan always speaks rapidly and in
o
a high voice when she 's irritated or frightened.

high [hOI] noble or noteworthy. D He is a man of high
o
principles.
high [hOI] strong; forceful. D High winds and the sea battered
o
the barrier islands.

high See the main entry beginning with hi.
higher-hire
higher [hOI3'-] the comparative form of high 'at a greater
o
height.' D The higher he climbed on the ladder, the more

nervous he became.
hire [hOI3'-] to take someone into employment; to engage the
o
personal services of someone. D Shall we hire a cab to take us

home after the play ?
him-hymn
him [hIm]
o the third person singular, objective, masculine pro
noun. D Give him that invoice to check against the shipment.
hymn [hIm]
o a song of joy, praise, or thanksgiving, usually
sung in worship services.D Mama's favorite hymn was "Rock
ofAges. "
hire See the main entry beginning with higher.
hoard-horde
hoard [ho3'-d] a concealed supply or cache of something. D
o
The crow stashed a hoard of small sparkling items in its nest.

hoard [ho3'-d] to hide a supply or cache of something. D It is
o
not safe to hoard valuables in likely hiding places.

horde [hoacd] a swarm or throng. D A horde ofpeople waited
o
in line all night for the concert tickets.
73
hoarse -horse
• horde [ho3'<l] a group of nomadic people, particularly of

Mongolian ancestry. D The pastoral horde wandered the
region for decades.
hoarse - horse
hoarse [hoa'-s]
• harsh, grating, or rough in sound.D Following
a bout with bronchitis, Tom 's voice was very hoarse.
horse [hoa'-s]
• a four-legged animal with a flowing mane and
D The horse I was given at the riding stable was a gentle
tail.
mare.
horse [hoa'-s]
• a gymnastic apparatus consisting of a padded
framework mounted on legs.D One of Steve's strongest events
is the horse.
horse [hoa'-s]
• to move something by force. D Be careful not to
horse that antique desk around when you move it.
hoes -hose
hoes [hoz]
• the plural of hoe 'a garden tool used to break up
the earth.' D The hoes are in the shed with the rest of the
garden equipment.
• hose [hoz] a flexible, hollow tube used to convey liquids. D I
need to replace the water hose in my car.
• hose [hoz] socks or stockings. D The splintered chair leg
caused a run in Sally 's hose.
• hose [down] [hoz] to wash or spray something with a hose.
D You must hose down the tumbler of the cement truck after
each delivery.
hold -holed
hold [hold]
• to possess something. D She holds a degree in
economics.
hold [hold]
• to contain someone or something; to support
someone or something. D Will this box hold all the books ? D
I don 't believe this little chair will hold me.
• hold [hold] to maintain a grasp on someone or something. D
Hold the kite string tightly or the wind will blow the kite away.
• holed [up] [hold] the past tense of hole [up] 'to hide; to
retire in a place.' D The crooks holed up in a deserted building
for a week.
holed See the main entry beginning with hold.
hole -whole
hole [hoI] a depression or opening. D The meteorite left a
•
huge hole in the earth when it hit the ground.

hole [hoi] a fault or flaw. D The burglar discovered a hole in
•
74
hostel- hostile
the security system of the building.

• hole [hal] an awkward position. 0 The sudden departure of
three valuable employees left the company in a hole.
• whole [hal] entire or unbroken. 0 Let 's look at the whole
picture. 0 The vase remained whole even though I dropped it.
• whole [hal] the complete number or sum of something. 0
The whole list had eleven chores on it.
• whole
unit. [hal] a system of parts working together as a single
0 As a whole, our fire department provides excellent
service.
holy-wholly
•holy ['holj] sacred; godly; that which evokes or merits rever
0
ence or respect. The woman devoted her life to the holy
service of God. 0 People of all faiths observe certain days that
are considered holy.
• holy ['holj] used to express intensity. (Idiomatic.) 0 That
unruly child is a holy terror!
• wholly ['holj] completely. 0 We are wholly in agreement on
that issue.
• wholly ['holj] solely, to the exclusion of others.0 No one
person is wholly responsible for what happened.
hoop-whoop
•hoop [hup] a ring.0 The circus tiger fearlessly jumped
through the hoop of fire.
•hoop [hup] a flexible, rounded framework used to expand
0 Dresses with hoop skirts are becoming fashionable
a skirt.
again for formal wear.
•whoop [MUp, w up] a sudden, loud sound emitted in enthusi
0 With a whoop, the crowd rose to its feet.
asm or eagerness.
•whoop [MUp, w up] to utter a loud and enthusiastic sound. 0
"I'll whoop forjoy if I pass that exam! " exclaimed Carlos.
horde See the main entry beginning with hoard.
horse See the main entry beginning with hoarse.
hose See the main entry beginning with hoes.
hostel-hostile
• hostel ['hastl] a supervised lodging provided for young people
when 0
traveling. The college students met interestingpeople at
each hostel.
• hostile ['hastl, 'hastml] antagonistic or unfriendly; relating
0
to the enemy. Joan is such a hostile person that none of her
co-workers like her. 0 The troops encountered hostile snipers
75
hostile
on the far side of the river.

hostile See the main entry beginning with hostel.
hour-our
hour [auae] a period of sixty minutes.
• 0
Each swimming
lesson lasts an hour.
hour [ouae] the time of day indicated by a timepiece.
• 0
"Could you please tell me the hour? " inquired the man at the
bus stop.
hour [auae] a particular time.
• 0
At the appointed hour and
place, the two intelligence agents met secretly.
our [ouae] first person, plural possessive pronoun.
• 0
Yester
day our car got a flat tire.
hue See the main entry beginning with hew.
humerus-humorous
humerus ['hjumae;)s] the long, heavy bone of the upper arm
•
or forelimb extending from the shoulder to the elbow. The 0

humerus of Jacob 's left arm was fractured when the scaffolding
fell on him.
• humorous ['hjumae;)s]
characterized by humor or wit. 0 Gen-
erally there is a humorous side to any embarrassing situation.
humorous See the main entry beginning with h umerus.
hung See the main entry beginning with hanged.
hymn See the main entry beginning with him .
76
I See the main entry beginning with aye.

I'd See the main entry beginning with eyed.
idle-idol-idyll
• idle ['Old!] lacking purpose or worth. 0
All that talk about
going on strike is just idle rumor.
• 0
idle ['OIdl] not employed or occupied. The autoworkers were
idle due to a shutdown ofproduction lines.
• idle ['OIdl] not being used appropriately. 0
Mischief often
results from idle time.
• idol ['Old!] something or someone that is worshipped or idol
D
ized. That culture has a sunlike symbol as an idol.
• idol ['Old!] a person or object of passionate devotion. 0
The
teenager was devoted to the rock-and-roll idol.
• idyll ['OIdl] a simple, descriptive poem or writing depicting
the virtues of the peaceful, rustic out-of-doors. 0 The short
idyll painted images of a blissful shepherd's life.
idol See the main entry beginning with idle.
idyll See the main entry beginning with idle.
I'll See the main entry beginning with aisle.
illicit See the main entry beginning with elicit.
illusion See the main entry beginning with allusion.
imminent See the main entry beginning with eminen t.
imply-infer
• imply [Im'pIOl] to suggest something without saying it spe
0 Do you mean to imply that I made a mistake ?
cifically.
77
in- inn
• infer [m'fa-] to come to a conclusion about something. D

Since the jury is deadlocked, we can infer that no decision will
be reached.
in- inn
in [m]
• (A
inside; within; into. preposition.) 0 Someday I
would like to fly in the Concorde SST. D Please come in out of
the rain.
inn [m]
•
food and adrink.

public lodging for travelers that usually provides
D The inn just outside the village provides
comfortable beds and good food. D The men stop each night for
a beer at the inn.
incite- insight
incite [m'sOIt]
• to stir up or move someone or something to
action.0 The speaker failed to incite the crowd to action.
insight ['msOIt]
· the ability to see or understand something
intuitively.D Our physics teacher has great insight into how to
motivate uninterested students.
infer See the main entry beginning with impJy.
inn See the main entry beginning with in.
innocence- innocents
innocence ['m;)s;)nts] guiltlessness or purity.
• 0
Throughout
the trial, the accused proclaimed her innocence.
innocents ['m;)s;)nts] the plural of innocent 'a person who is
•
blameless or without fault.' D In any war it seems the innocents

pay the dearest price.
innocents See the main entry beginning with innocence.
insight See the main entry beginning with incite.
instance - instants
instance ['mst;)nts] circumstance, example, or case. D In that
•
particular instance, you probably should have kept quiet.

instants ['mst;)nts] the plural of instant 'a moment; a second;
•
a split second.' D During those few frightening instants, we

didn 't know what would happen.
instants See the main entry beginning with instance.
insure See the main entry beginning with ensure.
intense - intents
intense [m'tmts] strong; extreme. D Tom felt intense relief
•
after his solo performance.
78
it's
•intense [In'tEnts] deeply feeling, usually by temperament or

nature. 0 Sam is an intense person at all times.
•intents [In' tEnts] the plural of intent 'a purpose or an
inten
tion.' 0 Our intents have always had your best interests in
mind.
intents See the main entry beginning with intense.
isle See the main entry beginning with aisle.
its-it's
•its [ItS] the possessive form of it.0 The kitten licked its paws
after walking through the puddle of water.
•it's [ItS] the contraction of it is or it has. 0
It's always
exciting to have a birthday party- no matter how old you are.
it's See the main entry beginning with its.
79
jam-jamb
jam [d3rem]
o to press or wedge something into a tight position.
D Do not try to jam too many clothes into the suitcase.
jam [d3rem]
o an obstruction or congestion. D The traffic jam
on the highway caused us to miss our plane.
jam [d3rem]
o a difficult predicament. D Whenever Mary gets
in ajam, she calls her parents for help.
jam [d3rem]
o a condiment made with fruit and sugar. D
Homemade peach jam is my favorite.
j amb [d3rem]
o an upright structure or piece forming the side
of an opening. D Not a single door jamb in the building was
straight.
jamb See the main entry beginning with jam.
jeans See the main entry beginning with genes.
jell See the main entry beginning with ge1.
jinks-jinx
[high] jinks [d3IIJks] pranks. D
o "1 will not put up with any
highjinks while you 're here, " scolded Grandmother.
jinx [d3IIJks] someone or something that brings bad luck or
o
misfortune. D Eddie was ajinx to our team 's winning streak.

jinx [d3IIJks] to bring bad luck to someone.
o 0 Mary is so
superstitious that she believes a passing black cat will jinx her.
jinx See the main entry beginning with Jinks.
80
karat See the main entry beginning with carat.
kernel See the main entry beginning with colone1.
key- quay
key [ki] a metal piece used to open a lock.
• 0
I lost my car key
and had
to call a locksmith.
key [ki] the solution to a problem; the explanation for some
•
0
thing complicated. The key to the mystery was the fingerprints
that the police found on the doorknob.
key [ki] a lever used to play a piano or an organ. 0 I pressed
•
one key after another and nothing happened!

key [ki] major; principal.
• 0
Ted is a key figure in the
negotiations.
key [ki] a particular musical scale.
• 0
The entire sonata was
in the key of C major.
quay [ki] a wharf.
• 0
Our ship docked at the quay and the
passengers got off quickly.
kill-kiln
•kill [kIl] to deprive someone or something of life; to murder
0
or slay someone or something. My brother will not even kill
a mosquito.
• kill [kIl] to put an end to something; to stop something. D
Another loss will kill the team 's hopes of post-season play. 0
Kill the engine so we don 't run out of gas.
• kill [kIl] to destroy the vitality of something or someone. 0
Don 't kill her enthusiasm by being too critical.
• kill [kIl] to let something elapse. 0 We have some time to kill
before the movie begins.
81
kiln
· kill [kIl]
to exhaust someone or something. 0 "If we have to
run another mile, it willjust kill me, " complained Gary.
· kill [kIl]
something killed. 0 The hunter's kill consisted of
two rabbits and three squirrels.
• kill [kIl]
the act of killing something or someone. 0 When the
wounded zebra staggered, the lions moved in for the kill.
· kiln [kIl, kiln]
a heated enclosure used to dry substances. 0
The owner of the ceramic shop hasjust purchased a new kiln.
kiln See the main entry beginning with kilJ.
knead - kneed -need
knead [nid] to form or shape something into a mass with the
•
hands; to rub or squeeze something with the hands. It is 0

best to knead and punch the bread dough twice before letting it
rise for the final time. 0 A massage therapist will knead the
muscles in your neck.
• kneed [nid] the past tense and past participle of 'toknee
strike someone with one's knee.' 0 Sam was upset when the
person sitting behind him kneed him in the back.
· need [nid] to be in want of something or someone. D I need
more time to think over my options.
• need [nid] a lack of something necessary, useful, or desirable.
o His need for steady employment is pressing.
· need [nid] an obligation or duty. 0 There is no need to arrive
early.
kneed See the main entry beginning with knead.
knew See the main entry beginning with gn u.
knickers -nickers
knickers ['mka'-z] short, loose-fitting pants gathered at the
•
knee. D Knickers were once the men 's fashion rage in golf
anickers
•
horse. ' ['mka'-z]

0
the plural of nicker 'the neigh or whinny of
From the barn we could hear the impatient pony's
nickers.
knight-night
knight [nOll]
·
superior noble.in0 feudal society, a man-at-arms serving a

The knight in shining armor rescued the
princess from the castle tower.
• knight [nOll] to bestow knighthood upon someone. 0
The
king will knight the two men who saved his life.
• knight [nOll] a chess piece, usually in the shape of a horse
0
bust. In chess, a knight is a higher-ranking piece than a
pawn.
82
knock- nock
• night [nOlt] 0 Nocturnal animals are able to see at

darkness.
night. 0 Night covered the campsite and one by one we turned
on our flashlights.
• night [nOll] 0 Last night I spotted a shooting star
evening.
in the sky.
knit -nit
•knit [nIt] to interlace yarn or thread in a series of connected
loops using 0
needles. Mom always liked to knit rather than
crochet.
knit [nIt] to form, tie, or link something closely together.
• 0
The new trade agreement will knit the nations.
knit [nIt] to contract something into wrinkles.
• 0 Father used
to knit his brow when he was upset or worried.
nit [nIt] a young, parasitic insect or the egg of a young, para
•
0
sitic insect. Head lice are a type of nit.
knob-nob
knob [nob] a rounded handle.
• 0
To open the front door, you
must twist the knob.
knob [nob] a small, isolated hill or mountain.
· 0The knob
would make a perfect ski slope.
knob [nob] a lump.
· 0
The sharp blow raised a knob on his
head.
nob [nob] the head. (Slang.)
• 0
You 'll have a bump on your
nob from that nasty insect bite.
nob [nob] in cribbage, a jack of the same suit as the starter
·
0
that scores a point for the holder. A nob in cribbage is
similar to the "right " or "left " in euchre.
knock-nock
knock [nok]
· to hit something with a sharp blow. 0 Please
knock on the door before entering the office.
knock [nok]
· to collide with something or someone. 0 Be
careful not to knock over the figurines.
knock [nok]
· to wander about. 0 Ken wants just to knock
around for awhile after he graduates from high school.
knock [nok]
• a setback or misfortune.0 Losing the game in
the final moments was a hard knock.
knock [nok]
• to find fault with someone or something. 0
Don 't knock my earnest attempts.
knock [nok]
• an abnormal noise originating from the engine
0 Richard detected an engine knock in his
of a car or truck.
new car.
nock [nok]
• a notch in a bow used to hold the bowstring or
83
knot -naught-not
the arrow. 0 The craftsman carefully cut a nock into each end
ofthe bow.
· nock [nak] the rear notched part of the arrow that is fitted to
0
the bowstring and holds it in place. The archer's aluminum
arrow is fitted with a plastic nock.
· nock [nak] to fit an arrow to a bowstring. 0
Upon seeing the
bear, the frightened hunter was able to nock his bow quickly.
knot -naught-not
knot [not]
• an interlacing of string, twine, or rope. 0 I was
unable to untangle the knot in my fishing line.
knot [not]
• a hard-to-solve problem or dilemma. 0 That issue
put a knot in the discussion.
knot [not]
•
the idiom a bond of union, especially marriage. (Always in

tie the knot.) 0 The couple has finally decided to
tie the knot.
knot [not]
· 0 The tugboat chugged
one nautical mile per hour.
out of the harbor at a single knot.
naught [n�t, not]
• nothing. (Typically withfor. ) 0 All his hard
work was for naught.
not [not]
• no
a word indicating or negation. 0 We are not
hungry at the moment.
knotty-naughty
knotty ['nati]
• having many knots, as with hair, rope, or
0 After a day in the wind, my hair was all knotty.
string.
knotty ['nati]
• having many knots, as with lumber containing
0 I can 't use this board because it
the bases of many branches.
is too knotty.
naughty ['n:lti, 'natil
• ill-behaved; disobedient. 0 If you are
naughty, I will have to send you to bed.
know-no
know [no]
• to understand or discern something; to be sure of
0
the truth or certainty of something. Charley does not know
how to solve that problem. 0 I know that she is an honest
person.
• no [no] none or not any. 0 There is no other way to the top of
the tower other than the steep staircase.
• no [no] a negative reply or denial. 0 No, I don 't care for any
more coffee.
knows-nose
knows [noz]
•
'to understandthe present tense,

or perceive third toperson
something; of a offact.'know
singular
be aware 0
The boy knows he will be punished severely for coming home
84
knows-nose
late. 0 Mary knows a surprise party is being planned in honor

of her retirement.
• knows [noz] the with
presentsomeone
tense, third person singular of know
'to be acquainted or something.' 0 She knows
the shortest route to that town. 0 Mary knows Bob very well.
• nose [noz] the organ of smell. 0 The actress 's nose is her
most distinguishing feature.
• nose [noz] to detect or sense something or someone by smell.
o His dog can nose a rabbit out ofany briar patch.
• nose [noz] to pry or meddle in something. 0 You have no
right to nose about in other people 's business.
• nose [noz] the front part of a structure, vehicle, or craft. 0
As it took off, the nose ofthejet seemed to be pointed straight up.
85
lacks -lax
lacks [lreks]
o
'to be in need the present tense,

of something. third wine
' D That personlackssingular of lack
a full, fruity
flavor.
o lax [lreks] loose; slack. D Hoist the sails up fully so they are
not lax.
o lax [lreks] not strict or stringent. D Fred is very lax about his
personal appearance.
ladder-latter
ladder ['Iredac]
o a structure of two vertical side poles and nu
merous horizontal rungs that is used for climbing up and
down. D Jake refuses to walk underneath any ladder.
o ladder ['Iredac] something that resembles a ladder or func
tions like a ladder. D A fish ladder was constructed to help the
salmon swim upstream to spawn.
o latter ['Iredac, 'Iretac] referring to the second of two things
mentioned. D Though Lindsay and Marina are both smart,
the latter is the better student.
o latter ['Iredac, 'Iretac] the last; the end. D In the latter stages of
the conflict, the war-weary soldiers wanted to give up.
lain - lane
olain [len] the past participle of lie 'to rest or recline in a
horizontal position.' D She has lain on the sofa so often that
it sags in some places.
o lain [len] the past participle of lie 'to occupy a place; to be in
a place.' D The two rusty plows have lain next to each other
in the field for years.
o lane [len] a narrow path or road; a marked path or route; an
86
laps-lapse
ocean route for sea going vessels. 0 The country lane is lined
with wildflowers in the spring. 0 Jessica was disqualified from
the race because she stepped out of her lane on the backstretch.
o Jane threw her bowling ball so forcefully that it landed in
the next lane.
lam-lamb
lam [hem]
• a hurried or sudden flight from the law. 0 Since
the prison escape, the convict has been on a lam.
lamb [hem]
• a young sheep. 0 The white, fluffy lamb frolicked
in the pasture with its mother.
lamb [hem]
• a person as weak or gentle as a lamb. 0 Despite
his huge size, Bob is a real lamb.
lamb [Irem]
• the meat of a young sheep. 0 One of the house
specialties at this restaurant is lamb chops with mint sauce.
lamb See the main entry beginning with lam.
lane See the main entry beginning with lain.
laps-lapse
laps [Ireps] the plural of lap 'the top of the thighs of a seated
•
0
person.' The baby-sitters held the twins on their laps while
reading them bedtime stories.
laps [Ireps] the plural of lap 'a loose panel or flap of fabric or
•
0
skin.' A current style of women 's trousers has billowy laps of
fabric along the legs.
laps [Ireps] the plural of lap 'one circuit, often around a
•
0
racecourse or swimming pool.' Our gym teacher always
makes the losing relay team run laps around the track.
laps [Ireps] the present tense, third person singular of lap 'to
•
drink 0
liquid using the tongue.' The kitten always laps its
water noisily.
laps [Ireps] the present tense, third person singular of lap 'to
•
0
move in small, gentle waves.' It is peaceful and relaxing
to walk along the beach as the water gently laps the shoreline.
lapse [Ireps] a gap or break in some time period or activity; a
•
discontinuance. 0
There was a temporary lapse in the electrical
service to the neighborhood. 0
During a lapse in the flow of
customers, Vince ran out for a quick bite to eat.
• lapse [Ireps] an error; a slip. 0 During a lapse in manners,
Dad talked with his mouth full.
• lapse [Ireps] to backslide or fall into error. 0 Now that he
has reached his desired weight, Ron hopes that he doesn 't lapse
into poor eating habits.
87
lapse
lapse See the main entry beginning with laps.
latter See the main entry beginning with ladder.
lax See the main entry beginning with lacks.
lay- lei
(See also lay-lie. )
• lay [Ie] to place or set someone or something down. 0
Lay
the tools on the workbench.
• lay [Ie] to wager or bet something. 0
I will not lay odds on
the outcome of that football game.
•lay [Ie] to impose as an obligation, reproach, burden, or
0
punishment. The government will lay a heavy tax on those
imports.
• lay [Ie] to plan or conceive something. 0
Let's lay a plan to
make the police think we have disappeared.
•
alaycertain
[Ie] a person not of the clergy; a person not belonging to
0
profession. Guenter Schmidt is a lay reader at
his church. 0 Many computer manuals are written for a lay
audience.
• lay [down] [Ie] the past tense oflie [down]'to rest or recline
in a horizontal position.'0 He lay down to rest and fell asleep.
• lay [Ie] lie
the past tense of 'to occupy a place; to be situated
some place.' 0 At one time those two old sheds lay near the
main barn.
• lei [Ie] a wreath or necklace of flowers or similar material. 0
The flight attendant placed a lei around Mary 's neck when her
plane arrived in Hawaii.
lay-lie
lay [Ie]
• 0
to place someone or something onto something.
Lay the tools over on the workbench, please. 0 Now I lay me
down to sleep.
lie [101]
• D I think
to rest or recline in a horizontal position.
you should lie here and rest.
lays -laze-leis
lays [lez]
• the present tense, third person singular of lay 'to
0
place or set something down.' Peter always lays his shoes
right where they will get stepped on.
• lays [lez] the present tense, third person singular of lay 'to
0
place a bet.' Each time she goes to the racecourse, Susan lays
a bet on her favorite horse.
• lays [lez] the present tense, third person singular of lay 'to
contrive a plan.' 0 When he doesn 't feel like going to school,
88
lean-lien
Casey lays a plan to pretend he is ill.

o laze [Iez] to pass time in relaxation or idleness. 0 Summer
time affords some students time to laze the days away.
o leis [Iez] lei
the plural of 'a wreath or necklace of flowers or
similar material.' 0 The prettiest leis are those made of orchid
blossoms.
laze See the main entry beginning with lays.
leach-leech
oleach [Iit.\1 to pass something through or out of something by
0
percolation. If we first leach this compound, there won 't be
much sediment in the liquid that is left.
as
oleech [Iit.\1 a bloodsucking worm usually found in fresh, slow
moving 0
water. We found a leech in the stagnantpond.
oleech [Iit.\1 a hanger-on who seeks to gain favor or position by
association. 0 The leech hoped he would gain favors from the
new mayor.
oleech [Iit.\1 to remove blood from patients, as a treatment for
0
various diseases. (Not widely practiced any longer.) Doctors
used to leech patients to rid them of disease.
lead-led
lead [h,d]
o a heavy, soft metal that can be formed into shapes.
o Fishing sinkers are usually made of lead.
lead [h,d]
o a thin rod of a marking material found in pencils
0 Jeffbroke his pencil lead twice during the exam.
and pens. the past tense and past participle of 'to guide,
led [h,d]
o lead
direct, or aim someone or something.' 0 The scout led the
pioneers into the wilderness.
led [lEd] lead
o
a leader; tothebe past

aheadtense
of orandin past
frontparticiple of 'to serve as
0 The famous
of someone.'
scientist led the team of experts. 0 Scott led his team in rebounds
this year.
leak-leek
leak [Iik]
o a crack or hole that unintentionally allows an
escape of something. 0 A leak in the water pipe caused the
basement to flood.
o leak [Iik] to give out information secretly. 0
Let's not leak
this material to the newspapers ahead of schedule.
o leek [Iik] an edible garden herb known for its somewhat
0
pungent taste. Since his wife does not like the flavor of leek,
Ted leaves it out of his Chinese dishes.
lean-lien
lean [lin]
o having little or no fat. 0 The circus performer was
89
leased -least
lean and wiry. 0 He eats only lean red meat.

• lean [lin] to rely upon someone or something for support. 0
It's nice to have someone to lean on in times of trouble.
• lean [lin] to bend from a vertical position. D Since Sally is
almost deaf, she must lean forward to listen when someone
speaks.
• lean [lin] to incline toward something in opinion, taste, or
desire. 0 My taste in clothing tends to lean toward classic
styles.
lien
·
satisfy[lin]somea legal
debt orcharge
duty.upon personal property to offset or
0 The lien on our neighbor's farm
must be settled before the bank will approve a new loan.
leased -least
leased st
· [li ] the past tense and past participle of lease 'to rent
something for one's
for a specified perioduse,of usually
time.' realLastestate
0
or an automobile,
year more companies
leased business vehicles than ever before.
least [list] the superlative form of less.
· 0
Of Mary 's three
children, the youngest boy is the least prone to catching colds.
least [list] the smallest degree, amount, or size possible.
· 0
I'm not the least bit worried about what he thinks.
least See the main entry beginning with leased.
led See the main entry beginning with lead.
leech See the main entry beginning with leach.
leek See the main entry beginning with leak.
lei See the main entry beginning with lay.
leis See the main entry beginning with lays.
lend-loan
lend [lEnd] to give something to someone with an under
•
standing that what was given (or something equal to it) will be
returned. 0
I'll lend you some of my water goblets for your
dinner party.
loan [Ion] something given to a borrower temporarily.
• 0 The
loan of Peter's wrench was a great help. D Has the loan for your
new house been approved ?
lends -lens
lends
• [lEn(d)z] the present tense, third person singular of
lend D Henri often
'to make a loan of something to someone.'
lends Kip his car repair tools. 0 My credit union lends money
90
liar-lyre
just as most banks do.

• lens [lcnz] a glass or other substance used to focus or direct
light rays. 0 The lens of that camera was badly scratched. 0 A
piece of metal was imbedded in the lens of her left eye.
lens See the main entry beginning with lends.
lessen -lesson
•lessen ['IEs;)n] to reduce something in size, number, or degree.
o
Aspirin will lessen the pain ofyour toothache.
•lesson ['IEs;)n] a piece of instruction or something to be
0
learned, especially by a student. Today 's lesson dealt with
right triangles.
•lesson ['lEs;)n] a rebuke. 0 That incident taught us an impor
tant lesson about honesty.
•lesson ['IEs;)n] a portion of sacred writing read during a
0
worship service. "Our lesson for this day is from the book
ofActs, " announced the minister.
lesson See the main entry beginning with lessen.
lets-let's
•lets [lEtS] the third person singular of let 'to permit someone
0
to do something.' She lets the children stay up late on
weekends.
•let's [lEtS] the contraction of let us . 0 Let 's go now.
let's See the main entry beginning with lets.
levee -levy
•levee ['lEvi] a dike or embankment of some type used to
0
prevent flooding. The levee was under much stress due to
the heavy rainfall.
•levee ['lEvi] a reception for a particular or important person.
o An afternoon levee was held in honor of the visiting poet.
•levy ['lEvi] to impose or collect an assessment, tax, or some
0
thing else by legal means. In the future, the court will levy
stiffer fines for traffic offenses.
•levy ['lEvi] to wage or carry something on, as if in war. 0
Those two countries continue to levy war on one another.
•levy ['lEvi] to conscript or draft persons into the military. 0
The army needs to levy more troops to increase its numbers.
levy See the main entry beginning with levee.
liar-lyre
•liar ['1013'-] a person who does not tell the truth. 0 Though
91
lie - lye
she has trouble telling the truth, Liz does not consider herself a
liar.
o lyre ['1013'-]
a stringed musical instrument similar to a harp.
o In the ancient drawing a lyre appears in the hands of a
servant girl.
lie -lye
olie [101] an untruth that is told deliberately. (See also the
entry beginning with lay.) 0The child told a lie to avoid
punishment.
lie [101] to tell something that is not true in order to deceive
o
someone. 0 Please do not lie to me.

lie [101] to rest or recline in a horizontal position.
o 0 I think
you should lie down here and rest.
lie [101] to hide.
o 0
The burglars will lie in wait in the shadows
before entering the house.
lie [101] to occupy a position in relation to something else. 0
o
The villages lie on opposite sides of the valley.

lye [101] a strong, alkaline solution that comes from wood and
o
0
is used to make soap. Lye can burn your skin if it is too
concentrated.
lien See the main entry beginning with lean.
light-lite
light [lOIt] something that illuminates to make vision pos
o
0
sible. Turn on the porch light before you leave. We need 0
some light to be able to see what we are doing.
light [101t] truth or enlightenment.
o 0
Casey finally saw the
light about the importance of studying hard.
light [lOIt] having little pigment.
o 0Many red-haired people
have light complexions.
light [lOIt] easy. 0 Mary is carrying a light class load this
o
term.
light [lOIt] cheerful; jovial.
o 0
The quartet played a light,
classical piece of music.
light [lOIt] dizzy; giddy.
o 0
I felt a bit light after hitting my
head on the door.
lite [lOIt] containing fewer calories; containing less of some
o
0
ingredient. My wife insists on buying lite bread, margarine,
and cottage cheese.
lightening-lightning
lightening ['IOItnIlJ]
o the present participle of lighten 'to
0
make someone or something lighter.' After lightening the
load in my backpack, I was able to keep up with the other hikers.
92
load -lode -lowed
o His lightening of my bad mood made me feel much better.

lightening ['iOItntlJ] lighten
•
something brighter.' the present participle of 'to make

0 After the storm we saw a lightening of
the sky almost immediately.
lightning ['iOItntlJ]
•
one cloud to another aorsudden, brightto electrical

from a cloud earth. charge from
0 The thunder
clapped and the lightning lit up the sky as if it were daytime.
• lightning ['iOItntlJ]
sudden; very fast; having great speed. 0
Carl was well-known on the track team for his lightning sprint.
lightning See the main entry beginning with ligh tening.
links-lynx
•links [hlJks] the plural of link 'a segment of a chain.' 0
Because her new watchband was too big, Stella had two links
taken out of the band.
• links [hlJks] link
the plural of 'a connection.' 0 The police
could find no links between the suspects and the crime.
the plural of 'a piece of jewelry used to
fasten the cuffs on a long-sleeved shirt or blouse.' 0 Orlando
lost one of his cuff links at the dance.
the plural of 'a tubular segment of sausage.'
o They ate pancakes, eggs, and sausage links for breakfast.
• links [hlJks]
the present tense, third person singular of link
'to join people or things together.' 0 The evidence strongly
links her to the rumor.
• links [hlJks]
a golf course. 0 Every Saturday morning you
can find Mary on the links at the country club.
• lynx [hlJks]
a wildcat resembling a bobcat but with tufted
ears and larger, padded feet. 0 Some trappers hunt lynx for
their valuable fur.
lite See the main entry beginning with ligh t.
load -lode-lowed
•load [lod] something carried by a person or animal. 0
The
heavy load was too much for the young child to carry.
•load [lod] a mass or weight borne by something. 0
There are
load limit restrictions on these roads during the springtime.
•load [lod] the amount of work a person is expected to do. 0
As a new employee, Stella will carry a lighter load for the first
two weeks.
• load [lod] the full sight or story about someone or something;
an earful or an eyeful.0 "Wait until you get a load of this!"
exclaimed Chuck.
• load [lod] to put someone or something in or on something.
93
loan -lone
D You load the groceries into the car and I'll drive home. D
Let 's load the trailer before it gets dark.
• load [lod] to increase the weight of something. D The salt
bags will load down the back of the car.
• lode [lod] an abundant store of something. D Jerry received
a lode of money when he won the lottery.
• lode [lod] a mineral deposit within certain boundaries. D
The old prospector bragged about the size of the silver lode he
had discovered.
• lowed [lod] the past tense and past participle of low '[for
cattle] to make a soft, moaning sound. ' D The restless cows
lowed softly in the pasture.
loan -lone
(See also the main entry beginning with lend. )
• loan [Ion] something given for a borrower's temporary use.
D The buyer decided not to apply for a loan to buy the new
lawn tractor. D I was grateful for the loan of Joe 's computer.
• lone [Ion] alone, sole, only, isolated. D The lone Canada
goose flew across the darkening sky.
loath-loathe
loath
• [108] reluctant; unwilling. D I am loath to sit next to
that obnoxious person for even one more minute!
loathe
• [106] to hate someone or something. D Not only does
he loathe the sight of cooked spinach, he also refuses to eat it.
loathe See the main entry beginning with loath.
loch-lock
loch [bh, bk] a bay or arm of a sea nearly surrounded by land,
•
especially in Scotland. D There is a famous loch in Scotland

where a monster presumably lives.
· lock [10k] a security device operated by a key, combination,
orfromelectrical
a place. Dcircuit and used to restrict entrance to or exit
My new key did not fit the lock properly.
• lock [10k] a tress of hair; a group of human hairs. D Mother
keeps a lock of our hair in each of our baby books.
· lock [10k] an enclosure used for raising and lowering vessels
D
from one water level to another. The ship must pass through
the lock to enter Lake Superior.
• lock [10k] to fasten, join, or hold something together. D The
wrestlers must lock hands before beginning a match.
• lock [10k] to secure something with a lock. D Be sure to lock
the door when you leave.
94
lyre
lock See the main entry beginning with lo h c .

locks-lox
•locks [laks] the plural of lock 'a security device operated by
a key, combination, or electrical circuit and used to restrict
0
entrance to or exit from a place.' As a safety measure, Sam
had the locks on all of the doors changed.
•locks [laks] the plural of lock 'a tress of hair; a group of
0
human hairs.' Her golden locks were the envy of all of her
friends.
•locks [laks] the plural of lock 'an enclosure used for raising
and lowering vessels from one water level to another.' Most 0
locks do not operate in the winter.
• locks [laks]
'to fasten, join,theorpresent tense, thirdtogether.'
hold something person singular of lock
0 A computer
automatically locks the gates in the prison. 0 Grandpa never
locks his house at night.
• lox [laks]
smoked salmon. 0 Her favorite items on the buffet
table are the lox and bagels.
lode See the main entry beginning with load.
lone See the main entry beginning with loan.
loot-lute
•loot [lut] something taken illegally, often by force, especially
0
war; spoils of war. The soldiers carried the loot into their
incamp.
•loot [lut] money. (Slang.) 0
"Where should we hide the loot ? "
asked one of the bank robbers.
•loot [lut] illegal gains by public officials. 0
No one was
aware of the loot skimmed out of the public treasury by top city
officials.
•loot [lut] to take something illegally by force or violence. 0
Rioters continued to loot the ravaged city day after day.
•lute [lut] a pear-shaped, stringed musical instrument resemb
ling 0
and played like a guitar. The wandering minstrel played
a lute.
lowed See the main entry beginning with load.
lox See the main entry beginning with locks.
lute See the main entry beginning with o t l o .
lye See the main entry beginning with lie.
lynx See the main entry beginning with links.
lyre See the main entry beginning with liar.
95
made -maid
made [med]
• the past tense and past participle of make 'to
0
create something; to manufacture something.' Those lan
terns were made in Hong Kong. 0 Timothy made a cage for his
gerbils.
• made [up] [med] the past tense and past participle of make
[up}
'to invent a story.' 0 She made up a story that was too
silly to believe.
• made [med] the past tense and past participle of 'tomake
complete something; to succeed at something.' 0 Bill has
made his career in politics.
• maid [med]a female servant. 0 Mrs. Smith 's maid gets every
other weekend off.
• maid [med]a young, unmarried girl or woman. (Used only in
older stories and fairy tales.) 0 A lovely maid captured the
young king 's heart.
maid See the main entry beginning with made.
mail- male
mail [mel] letters, packages, and other postal material.
• A 0
former roommate of mine was once a mail carrier in California.
mail [mel] to send something by post or mail.
• 0
Ruth prom
ised to mail the letter in the morning.
mail [mel] armor made from metal links or plates.
• 0
The
knight wore heavy mail during the battle.
mail [mel] the hard, protective covering of some animals.
• 0
Such animals as the armadillo are covered with mail.
male [mel] a human, plant, or animal of the masculine gen
•
0
der. The test determined that at least one of the unborn twins
96
manner- manor
is a male.
• male [mel] bearing masculine characteristics. 0 A male apple
tree is needed to pollinate the female trees.
main-mane
main [men]
• 0 The main idea of the poem
chief; essential.
was hard to figure out.
main [men]
• physical force or strength. (Always in the idiom
might and main. ) 0 Julio pushed the stalled car with all of his
might and main.
main [men]
• a major duct, pipe, or circuit responsible for
feeding lesser branches of a utility system. 0 A bulldozer
accidently hit a water main while digging at the site.
mane [men]
• long, heavy hair growing from the neck of some
mammals, especially horses and lions. 0 When I lost my grip
on the bridle rein, I grabbed a handful of the horse's mane.
mane [men]
• the heavy tresses of a person's head. 0 Susan
has the most beautiful mane of shiny black hair.
maize-maze
maize [mez]
• 0 Maize was one of the food
a type of corn.
staples for many North American Indian tribes.
maze [mez]
• a complex, confusing network of passageways; a
0 The mouse was able to find its
confused or bewildered state.
way out of the maze. 0 My mind was in a maze after the long
study session.
male See the main entry beginning with mail.
mall-maul
mall [mJI] a mallet.
• 0
He hit the sheet of steel with a rubber
mall.
mall [mJI] a large, enclosed shopping center. D A popular
•
place for teenagers to hang out is at the mall.

mall [mJI] a public walkway often lined with shade trees.
• 0
Many couples stroll along the mall in the evening.
maul [mJI]
• to
molest, mangle, or handle roughly. Do not 0
allow that young child to maul those tiny kittens.
maul [mJI] a heavy hammer used to drive wedges.
• 0
We 'll
need a maul to split the wood.
mane See the main entry beginning with main.
manne r-manor
manner ['mrena-] a characteristic way of acting or behaving.
•
o
His manner has always been kind and gentle.
manner ['mrena-] sort or kind.
• 0
What manner of person
97
manor
would do such a thing ?

o manor ['mrena-] the house or mansion of an estate. The 0
manor sits at the end of a long, winding drive.
o manor ['mrena-] a piece of land in which the tenants pay a
user's fee either in money or in goods produced on that land.
o The serfs worked the manor in exchange for a portion of
their crop.
o manor ['mrena-]in England, a rural territorial unit or orga
nization. 0 That manor is made up mostly of small villages.
manor See the main entry beginning with manner.
mantel-mantle
mantel ['mrentI] a shelf above a fireplace.
o 0
The couple chose
an antique barn beam for the mantel in their new home.
mantel ['mrentI] a structure that supports the masonry
o
0
above a fireplace. The bricklayer first built the mantel and
then laid up the fireplace facial brick.
mantle ['mrentI] a cloak.
o 0
The actor wore a black mantle
throughout the play.
mantle ['mrentI] something that encloses or covers something.
o
o
The captives escaped under a mantle of darkness.
mantle ['mrentI] the back, shoulders, and wings of a bird.
o 0
The feathers on the mantle of the exotic bird were orange and
green.
o mantle ['mrentl] D We found
part of the shell of a mollusk.
an oyster mantle that had washed up on the shore.
o mantle ['mrentI] part of the earth's surface just above the
central core. 0 Do scientists know the depth of the earth's
mantle ?
o mantle ['mrentI]
to cover or spread over something as with a
mantle. 0 Birds of prey will often mantle their kill with their
wings.
mantle See the main entry beginning with man tel.
mare -mayor
ofmare
o [mEa-] a female horse, donkey, or mule, especially one
breeding 0
age. The horse that caught thejudges ' eyes was a
flashy mare with spirit.
o mare [mEa-] a supernatural being that causes nightmares.0
She dreamed that an evil mare flew into her bedroom.
o mare [mEa-] a large, dark patch on the surface of Mars or the
moon. D The mare on the full moon 's surface was visible with
the naked eye.
98
marshal-martial
•mayor [mEac, meac] the elected chief officer of a city or bor

ough. 0
Our city 's mayor is very active in local activities.
marquee -marquis-marquise
•marquee [mor'ki] a canopy or signboard that projects over
the entrance of a theater or other building and consists of
0
metal, lights, and glass. The bright yellow lights around the
border of the marquee flashed on and off
•marquee [mor'ki] a large tent set up for an outdoor gathering.
o The band will perform under a marquee at the wedding
reception.
• marquis [mor'ki] a nobleman of inherited rank in some coun
tries. 0 The heroine in that romance novel refused to marry the
evil marquis.
• marquise [mor'kis] a gemstone or ring setting in the shape of
a long oval with pointed ends. 0 Donna 's diamond engagement
ring is a brilliant marquise.
marquis See the main entry beginning with marquee.
marquise See the main entry beginning with marquee.
marry-merry
•marry ['mreaci, 'mEaci] to join two people in matrimony as
0
husband and wife. The rabbi will marry the couple on Friday
evening.
marry ['mreaci, 'mEaci] to take someone as a spouse.
• 0
John
will marry Ellen when he finishes college.
•marry ['mreaci, 'mEaci] to unite two things in a close relation
0
ship. The merger will marry two of the largest airlines in the
world.
merry ['mEaci] jovial, lighthearted, or festive.
• 0
Everyone
attending the festival had a merry time.
marshal-martial
marshal ['mor.\1]
• a person who directs and oversees ceremo
nial gatherings. 0 A celebrity is usually chosen to act as the
grand marshal of the annual parade.
• marshal ['mor.\1] a federal official in charge of prisoners or
0
having certain judicial duties. The fugitive surrendered to
the marshal.
• marshal ['mor.\1] an administrative head of a city's fire or
0
police department. The local fire marshal inspected the
house that was destroyed in the blaze.
• martial ['mor.\1] pertaining or relating to war, combat, or
army or military life.0 She is taking a course in the martial
99
marten -martin
arts as a hobby.
marten-martin
marten ['mortn]
• any of several small, meat-eating mammals
belonging to the weasel family that live in semi-forested areas.
o The pine marten is making a comeback in some areas of
Michigan.
• martin ['mortn]
a shiny, blue-black bird belonging to the
swallow
insects. The studentsforputits upability
family0
known to eat large numbers of
a birdhouse in the school's
nature area in hopes of attracting a martin or two.
martial See the main entry beginning with marshal.
martin See the main entry beginning with marten.
massed-mast
massed [meest] the past tense and past participle of mass 'to
•
0
form or collect something into a body.' The shoreline was
littered with debris massed in clumps.
• mast [meest]
a long, vertical pole in a ship's deck, used to
0
support rigging, sails, and booms. Strong winds threatened
to rip apart both the sails and the mast of the ship.
mast [meest] edible nuts accumulated on the forest floor and
•
eaten by animals. 0 Acorns and beechnuts are a favorite mast

of whitetail deer.
mast [meest] a naval disciplinary hearing in which the com
•
manding officer listens to and decides cases or charges against

0
his men. Following the mast, the charges against the two
enlisted sailors were dropped.
mast See the main entry beginning with massed.
mat -matte
mat [meet] a border around a picture but inside a frame. A
• 0
large mat around a small picture is overwhelming.
mat [meet] to make or provide a picture with a mat.
• 0I
would like to mat his portrait in a bright color.
mat [meet] to become entangled.
• 0
The eat's fur tends to mat
easily.
mat [meet] a piece of closely woven coarse fabric used as a
•
covering for a table or floor. 0 In some places, a mat instead of

a bed is used for sleeping.
mat [meet] a small rug used at a door for cleaning shoes.
• 0
Be sure to wipe your feet on the mat before going into the house.
mat [meet] a thick, padded cushion used in such sports
• as
wrestling, 0
gymnastics, and tumbling. The gymnast fell off
100
medal-meddle
the balance beam and onto the mat beneath it.

o matte [mret] having a nonglossy or rough, grainy surface. 0
Ellen decided to use a paint that gives a matte finish.
matte See the main entry beginning with mat.
maul See the main entry beginning with mall.
may See the main entry beginning with can.
mayor See the main entry beginning with mare.
maze See the main entry beginning with maize.
meat-meet-mete
meat [mit] the flesh of an animal used as food.
o 0
Grand
father always liked meat and potatoes for Sunday dinner.
meat [mit] the edible part of a fruit, nut, or vegetable.
o 0
We 'll only use the meat of ripe nuts for the pecan pie.
meet [mit] to approach or come into contact or the presence
o
0
of someone or something. They agreed to meet for lunch at
noon. 0
I often meet defeat when I try to program the VCR.
meet [mit] to settle with or pay something in full.
o 0
John
cannot meet this month 's bills because of his recent illness.
meet [mit] a gathering for some specific activity or competi
o
tion. 0
Chris won the two-mile event in last week 's track meet.
mete [mit] to assign or allot something by measure. 0 Her
o
mother does not like to mete out punishment for the children 's
misbehavior.
meatier-meteor
meatier [ , mitijac]
o the comparative form of meaty 'having more
meat or substance 0
than something else.' I hope the next
novel I read has a meatier plot than the last.
o meteor ['mitijac, 'miti:>r] a piece of falling matter from the
solar system that becomes visible when it enters the earth's
atmosphere. 0 The meteor shower was visible only for an
instant.
medal-meddle
medal ['mEdl]
o an ornamental metal disk bearing a picture or
engraving
achievement or excellence.a person was
that remembers 0 It
or event or is rewarded for
a great honor to be
awarded a medal by the President of the United States.
o meddle ['mEdl] to interfere in something without permission
right. 0 I wish Carl would not meddle in other people 's
oraffairs.
10 1
meddle
meddle See the main entry beginning with medal.

meet See the main entry beginning with meat.
merry See the main entry beginning with marry.
metal -mettle
metal ['mEtl, 'mEdl] a chemical element that is lustrous,
•
opaque, 0
and fusible. Copper is a soft, easily handled metal.
mettle ['mEtl, 'mEd!] spirit or stamina.
• 0
The Boston
Marathon is enough to test the mettle of any serious long
distance runner.
mete See the main entry beginning with meat.
meteor See the main entry beginning with meatier.
mettle See the main entry beginning with metal.
mews -muse
mews [mjuz] the plural of mew 'a soft sound usually asso
•
0
ciated with cats.' The mournful mews of the trapped kitten
brought everyone running to the tree.
mews [mjuz] the plural of mew 'a gull.'
• 0
Mews swooped
above the harbor docks, hoping for a handout offresh fish.
muse [mjuz] a state of distraction or deep thought.
• He was0
in a muse for days trying to decide what to do.
muse [over] [mjuz] to think about something reflectively.
• 0
Grandma likes to muse over times past.
muse [mj uz] one of a group of nine goddesses in Greek
•
0
mythology. A muse was believed to bring inspiration to an
artist.
might-mite
might [mOlt]
• a word used to express possibility or probability.
o The current officeholder might be reelected next year.
might [mOlt]
• strength, power, or authority wielded by some
0 Despite his great might, the weight lifter
one or something.
was unable to lift the barbell.
mite [mOlt]
• a kind of tiny insect known to infest plants,
0 The dog was pestered by a mite in its ear.
animals, and foods.
mite [mOlt]
• 0 "Mike learned to
a very tiny creature or object.
fish when he was just a little mite, " reflected his mother.
mite [mOlt]
• 0 I'm so hungry that I
a small bit of something.
want to taste a mite of everything on the buffet table.
mil- mill
mil [mIl]
• a unit of length equal to 1/1000 of an inch. 0 The
102
minds-mines
wire required for that circuit was so tiny that it had to be

measured to the exact mil.
• mill [mIl]a unit of monetary value equal to 1/1000
of a
United States dollar. 0 The school board is requesting an
additional mill for operating costs in the special election.
mill [mIl]
•
machinery. a building used to house cutting or grinding

0 The old lumber mill has shut down.
• mill [mIl]to grind grain into a powder, meal, or flour. 0
People in many cultures still mill their grains using primitive
equipment.
• mill [mIl]to move about in a collective mass. 0 The crowd of
curious people continued to mill around the accident scene.
mill See the main entry beginning with mil.
mince -mints
• mince [mInts] to chop or cut something into very tiny pieces.
oMince the onion and garlic finely when you make that recipe.
• mince [mInts] to speak in a restrained manner within bound
aries of decorum. 0 Bob is very straightforward and does not
like to mince words.
• mints [mInts] the plural of mint 'a place where coins are
manufactured.' 0 One of the six United States mints is located
at Fort Knox, Kentucky.
• mints [mInts] mint
the plural of 'a huge sum of money.'
(Colloquial.) 0 Those antique cars are worth mints.
• mints [mInts] mint
the plural of 'an aromatic plant used in
flavoring and cooking.' 0 The leaves of two different types of
mints are used to make that tea.
• mints [mInts] candy flavored with mint. 0 The hostess had
dishes filled with nuts and mints sitting on the tables.
mints [mInts] mint
•
'to stamp coinstheor present tense,of metal.'

money out third person singular of
0 Darlene operates a
machine that mints new pennies.
minds-mines
•minds [moIndz] the plural of mind 'the brain's memory and
consciousness; that with which people think and reason.' 0
Our minds went blank when we were asked to recall something
that happened a long time ago. 0 The top students in the class
have excellent academic minds.
• minds [moIndz] mind
the plural of 'a highly intellectual or
scientific person.'0 Some of the best medical minds in the
world are searching for a cure for cancer.
• minds [moIndz] the present tense, third person singular of
103
miner-minor
mind 'to obey someone.' 0 That child always minds her

parents.
mind 'to be careful of something.' 0 Jimmy always minds the
traffic before crossing the street.
mind 'to take charge of someone or something.' 0 The oldest
child minds the younger ones when their parents are away.
• minds [moIndz] the present tense, third personto something.'
singular of
mind 'to be concerned with something; to object
o Dave minds the fact that some people call him by a nickname.
• mines [moInz] mine
the plural of 'a place in the earth from
which mineral deposits are taken.' 0 Most of the mines in West
Virginia contain coal.
mines [moInz] mine
•
stationary bomb.'the plural of 'an explosive device; a

0 Specially trained experts removed all
unexploded mines in the area.
• mines [moInz] the present tense, third person singular of
mine 'to dig for metal or ore.' 0 The company mines both silver
and copper in several western states.
• mines [moInz] the present tense, third person singular of
mine 'to place explosive mines in strategic positions.' 0 In
times of war, a country sometimes mines harbors and other
important waterways to discourage enemy use.
miner-minor
miner ['moIn<3'-]
• a person who mines.0 Like his father and
grandfather before him, Dave is a miner in the Pennsylvania
coal mines.
minor ['moIn<3'-]
• a person who is under legal age. 0 It is
illegal to sell alcohol and tobacco products to a minor.
minor ['moIn<3'-]
• unimportant; inferior in degree, status, num
0 Linda was disappointed that she received only a
ber, or size.
minor part in the play.
minor ['moIn<3'-]
• not involving risk to health or life. 0 The
man sustained a minor cut to his hand.
minor ['moIn<3'-] an academic
•
to earn a degree than a major. subject requiring fewer courses

0 Peter has a major in American
literature and a minor in social studies.
minor ['moIn<3'-]
• a musical key. 0 Play the recital piece in D
minor.
mines See the main entry beginning with minds.
minor See the main entry beginning with miner.
104
mode - mowed
mints See the main entry beginning with mince.

missed-mist
omissed [mIst] the past tense and past participle of miss 'to
0
feel the absence of someone or something.' Lori missed her
parents while she was away at summer camp.
o missed [mIst] the past tense and past participle of miss 'to
fail to obtain, The
something.' 0
hit, batter
reach,swung
or make contact with someone or
at the ball but missed.
missed [mIst] the past tense and past participle of miss 'to
o
0
fail to attend something.' Larry missed his first class because
he overslept.
omissed [mIst] the past tense and past participle of miss 'to
fail 0
to experience, sense, or understand something.' I think I
missed the point he was trying to make.
mist [mIst] very light, falling, or floating water particles, not
o
0
heavy as drizzle or rain. The morning mist covered every
as
thing with moisture. 0 We were unable to see the far side of the
pond due to the mist ofsteam rising from the water.
o mist [mIst]
to spray or cover something with fine water parti
cles. 0 Mist the fern plants every day rather than watering them
once a week.
mist See the main entry beginning with missed.
mite See the main entry beginning with might.
moan-mown
moan [mon] a wail; a groan.
o 0
The accident victim uttered a
moan when the rescue workers lifted her onto the stretcher.
moan [mon] to utter a wail or groan.
o 0
The winds seem to
moan down in the valley on breezy nights.
mown [mon] the past participle of mow 'to cut down standing
o
0
grass or weeds.' (Also mowed. ) Even after I had mown the
grass, dandelions appeared everywhere.
mown [down] [mon] the past participle of mow [down] 'to
o
kill
downorstanding
destroy grass
peopleorinweeds.'
large numbers0
without mercy; to cut
The artillery had mown down
all opposition in a matter ofminutes. 0 After the grass had been
mown down, I raked it up.
mode-mowed
mode [mod]
o 0
a specific form, style, or variety of something.
The bicycle is a popular mode of transportation in Japan.
mode [mod]
o a manner of doing something. 0 The burglar
repeatedly used the same mode of operation to gain entry into
houses.
105
moor-more
• mode [mod] the most frequent value in a frequency distribu

tion. 0 The instructor asked her students to find the mode in
the data she provided.
• mowed [mod] mow
the past tense of 'to cut down standing
grass or weeds.' 0 The farmer mowed his hay field four times
last year.
• mowed [down] [mod] the past tense of mow [down] 'to kill
or destroy large numbers of something without mercy.' 0 The
ruthless soldiers mowed down every living thing in sight.
moor-more
moor [m;)<3'-, mu<3'-]
• 0 Peggy
a wasteland of low, boggy ground.
often found it peaceful to walk along the moor at night.
moor [m;)<3'-, mu<3'-]
• to secure something with anchors or lines,
0 We had better moor the boat in the cove
particularly a boat.
until this storm passes.
more [m;)<3'-]
• D Nowa
a greater number, amount, or degree.
days more people live in urban areas than in rural ones.
moose- mousse
moose [mus]
• a large grass-eating mammal that belongs to
the deer family and lives in forested parts of North America. 0
While driving along a Canadian highway, we spotted a cow
moose and her calf drinking from a lake.
• mousse [mus] an airy, sweet dessert made of gelatin and
whipped cream. 0 Our hostess served raspberry mousse for
dessert.
more See the main entry beginning with moor.
morning-mourning
morning ['m;)<3'-nIIJ] the part of the day from midnight or
•
0
dawn until noon. He prefers tojog early in the morning when
it 's cooler.
mourning ['m;)<3'-nIIJ] the present participle of mourn 'to ex
•
press 'grief Mourning

death. and sorrowclothes
0
about aresomething, such as a person's
traditionally black. The0
players are still mourning the death of their beloved coach.
mourning ['m;)<3'-nIIJ] a period of grief following a death.
• 0
The widow continues to wear black to show that she is still in
mourning.
mourning See the main entry beginning with morning.
mousse See the main entry beginning with moose.

mowed See the main entry beginning with mode.
106
mustered
mown See the main entry beginning with moan.

muscle-mussel
muscle ['m;:Jsl] a body tissue that controls motion.
• 0
The
longjumper pulled a muscle in her lower leg.
muscle ['m;:Jsl] brawn; muscular strength.
• 0
It will take a lot
of muscle to move that large piece of equipment.
mussel ['m;:Jsl] a marine or freshwater bivalve mollusk.
• D
While walking along the shoreline, we found a mussel that had
washed up on the beach.
muse See the main entry beginning with mews.
mussed-must
mussed [m;:Jst] the past tense and past participle of muss 'to
•
mess up or make someone or something untidy.' The ride in0

the convertible certainly mussed her hairdo.
must [m;:Jst] to be compelled to do something by a person,
•
0
circumstance, or law. We must try to obey the law at all times.
must [m;:Jst] an essential item.
• 0
A small, compact camera is
a must when vacationing.
must [m;:Jst] an imperative need.
• 0
Complete confidentiality
is a must when dealing with private matters.
mussel See the main entry beginning with m uscle.
must See the main entry beginning with mussed.
mustard-mustered
mustard ['m;:Jst3'<i] a condiment made of powdered mustard
•
0
seed and other ingredients. Do you like mustard on your hot
dogs ?
• mustard ['m;:Jst3'<i] a pungent yellow powder from the mus
0
tard plant used in medicine and chemicals. Grandma used
to recommend a mustard plaster for chest colds.
• mustard ['m;:Jst3'<i] zest; vigor. (Slang.) 0Though in his
eighties, that man still has a great deal of mustard.
• mustered ['m;:Jst3'd] the past tense and past participle of
muster 'to collect, gather, or call something forth.' 0 Todd
mustered all of his courage before stepping up to the podium to
speak.
• mustered ['m;:Jst3'd] the past tense and past participle of
muster 'to enlist or rouse someone.' 0 Troops were mustered
from all over the colonial countryside.
mustered See the main entry beginning with m ustard.
107
naught See the main entry beginning with knot.
naughty See the main entry beginning with knotty.
naval-navel
naval [ ' nevi] involving or relating to ships, shipping, or a
•
D
navy. While on vacation, we visited the naval facility at Pearl
Harbor on Oahu, Hawaii.
navel ['nevi] a depression or scar in the center of the abdomen
•
where the umbilical cord was once attached. D The belly

dancer wore a gemstone in her navel as part of her costume.
navel ['nevI] a particular variety of orange.
• 0
There is no
orange sweeter than a large, juicy navel.
navel See the main entry beginning with naval.
nay-neigh
nay [ne] a negative reply or vote; a person who votes no. D
•
When the vote was tallied, there were four yeas and one nay.
nay [ne] not only this but also. (Formal, stilted, or jocular.)
• D
"Nay, there were other misdeeds committed by this individual, "
continued the speaker.
• neigh [ne]
the loud, long utterance of a horse, donkey, or
mule. D We could hear the wild horse's neigh across the wide
valley.
• neigh [ne]
to make the utterance of a donkey, horse, or mule.
D Our donkey will neigh if he hears a loud, piercing noise.
need See the main entry beginning with knead.
neigh See the main entry beginning with nay.
108
nun
new See the main entry beginning with gn u.
nickers See the main entry beginning with knickers.

night See the main entry beginning with knigh t.
nit See the main entry beginning with knit.
no See the main entry beginning with know.
nob See the main entry beginning with knob.
nock See the main entry beginning with knock.
none-nun
•none [n;:)n] not any; not a single one. D I looked for some ripe
avocados at the grocery store, but there were none.
•none [n;:)n] not at all; by no means. D Our band director was
none too happy with our recent performance.
•nun [n;:)n] a woman of a religious order, especially one who
vows poverty, chastity, and obedience. D The young Catholic
girl thought that one day she might become a nun.
nose See the main entry beginning with knows.
not See the main entry beginning with knot.
nun See the main entry beginning with none.
109
oar-o'er-or- ore
oar [;:l(}'-]
•
end used toa propel

long-handled paddle with
a boat through water.a flat,Inbroad
0
blade at one
his excitement to
land the great bass, the fisherman accidentally knocked an oar
into the water.
• o'er [;:l(}'-]
over. 0 The rugged pioneers pushed o 'er the moun
tains, valleys, plains, and deserts in their quest for a better life.
• or [;:l(},-]
a word suggesting an alternative. 0 We can leave now
to beat the rush, or we can wait and watch the final minutes of
the game.
• ore [;)(}'-]
a mineral containing a valuable metallic or other
element for which it is mined. 0 The discovery of iron ore
reshaped many aspects of human existence.
ode - owed
ode rod]
· a lyrical song or poem of varying length and com
plexity, usually addressing a person or event. The hauntingD
song "Ode to Billy Joe " was once very popular.
owed rod] the past tense and past participle of owe 'to be
·
indebted 0
to someone or something.' Sally finally paid me
the ten dollars she owed me.
0'
er See the main entry beginning with oar.
oh-owe
oh [0] an expression of various emotions, including surprise,
·
0
pain, and fear. "Oh, my goodness! I've won the lottojackpot!"
exclaimed Andy.
oh [0] an introductory word used in a direct address.
· "Oh, 0
Marie, I really don 't care to see that movie, " said Jill in disgust.
1 10
overdo - overdue
o oh [0] zero. D Both his house address and his telephone

number end in "oh. "
o owe [0] to be indebted to someone or something. D Since I
am as much at fault as you, you do not owe me an apology.
one -won
oone [w;)n] the number between zero and two. D Connie 's
jersey for the relay team has the number one on it.
oone [w;)n] a single unit or thing.D He doesn 't have one item
that he can call his own. D One type of woodwind instrument is
the clarinet.
oone [w;)n] any individual indicated in a vague sense. D I was
the first one to misspell a word in the spelling bee. D One really
should not do that!
oone [w;)n] united; acting or thinking in union. D We are one
in our beliefthat we should preserve our environment.
owon [w;)n] win
the past tense and past participle of 'to gain
the highest honor or best prize in a contest.' D Rita won the
fudge-making contest.
owon [w;)n] win
the past tense and past participle of 'to earn
or obtain something.' D Her kind ways and sense of fairness
won his respect.
or See the main entry beginning with oar.
ordinance -ordnance
oordinance ['J3'<i(n)n;)nts] a municipal law or order. D A
public ordinance prohibits loitering on city streets.
oordnance ['J<3'd(n)n;)nts] military supplies. D The ordnance
supply included guns and ammunition.
ordnance See the main entry beginning with ordinance.
ore See the main entry beginning with oar.
ought See the main entry beginning with augh t.
our See the main entry beginning with hour.
overdo -overdue
ooverdo [ov<3" du] to do or use something to excess. D Don 't
try to overdo things on your first day home from the hospital. D
I tend to overdo the pot roasts I prepare. D Don 't overdo it with
those painkillers.
o overdue [ov<3" du, oV<3" dju]delayed beyond an appointed time.
D Carol 's baby was three weeks overdue. D My library books
are always overdue by the time I return them.
o overdue [ov<3" du, oV<3" dju] remaining unpaid when due to be
111
overdue
paid. 0 Last month 's mortgage payment is overdue.

• overdue [ovac'du, ovac'dju]
more than ready. 0 James felt he
was long overdue for a pay raise.
overdue See the main entry beginning with overdo.
overseas- oversees
overseas [ovac'siz] across or beyond the sea.
• 0
The journal
ist 's next assignment will be somewhere overseas.
oversees [ovac'siz] the present tense, third person singular
•
0
of oversee 'to supervise someone or something.' The office
manager oversees the work of all of the clerical and support
staff
oversees See the main entry beginning with overseas.
owe See the main entry beginning with oh.
owed See the main entry beginning with ode.
1 12
paced -paste
opaced [pest] the past tense and past participle of pace 'to
establish a reasonable rate of movement or progress.' We 0
paced ourselves to work at a steady rate so we wouldn 't tire
before the job was done.
o paced [off] [pest] pace
the past tense and past participle of
[off]'to mark off a unit of distance based on the length of a
human stride.' 0 The umpire paced off the distance between
the pitcher's mound and the batter's box.
o paced [pest] pace
the past tense and past participle of '[for a
horse] to travel so that the legs on the same side of its body
move alternately back and forth at the same time.' The 0
horse paced around the track in record time.
o paste [pest] a wet, sticky mixture used as glue. 0 The pre
schoolers like to use colored paste on their art projects.
o paste [pest] to cause something to stick to someone or some
0
thing. Let's paste these drawings up on the walls all around
the room.
o paste [pest] to hit someone hard. (Slang.) 0 If you say
something to anger Terry, he is likely to paste you.
packed-pact
opacked [prekt] the past
'to gather something into tense and past
a compact and placeofit pack
form participle in a
0
container.' The children packed their own suitcases before
leaving for camp.
o packed [prekt] the past tense and past participle of pack 'to
carry a gun.' (Slang.) 0 The police officer always packed his
.357 magnum while on duty.
113
pail-pale
• packed [prekt] the past tense and past participle of pack '[for
one] to arrange
fraudulent a deck' of cards
advantage. 0
in such a way as to give one a
Carl liked to win at cards, so he
packed the deck in his favor whenever possible.
• packed [prekt] full of something. 0 Our favorite restaurant
is always packed with people on Saturday night.
• pact [prekt] a contract; an agreement. 0 The neighborhood
children formed a pact to meet every day after lunch.
• pact [prekt] a treaty; a contract. 0 Six countries signed the
pact declaring peace.
pail -pale
pail [pel]
• a bucket or other container equipped with a handle
0
and used to carry liquids. Our cow kicked over a full pail of
milk.
• pale [pel] pallid. 0 We knew Henry didn 't feel well when he
suddenly became very pale.
• pale [pel] not bright or brilliant. 0 She painted the room a
pale shade ofyellow.
• pale [pel] to become less important. 0 All of the other girls
pale in comparison to Rosa 's great beauty.
• pale [pel] one of the stakes or pickets of a fence. 0 One pale
in the stockade fence is broken and should be replaced.
pain-pane
pain [pen]
• 0 The pain became
distress; suffering; discomfort.
so unbearable that Emily finally agreed to see a doctor.
pain [pen]
• 0 It
to cause someone or something to feel pain.
will pain us to see you move so far away.
pain [pen]
• 0
to cause oneself or another trouble or exertion.
Do not pain yourself to stand up when you feel so ill.
pane [pen]
• a framed piece of glass found in windows and
0 During the furious storm, a pane of glass blew out of
doors.
the large picture window.
pair-pare -pear
pair [pE<3' ]
• two corresponding things designed to be used
0
together; two associated or similar things. Now what have I
done with that pair of socks ? 0 Jim needs to buy a pair of
shirts to take on his trip.
• pair [pE<3'] two sweethearts. 0 That young pair will probably
marry someday.
• pair [pE<3'] two playing cards of the same value or denomina
tion. 0 All she had was a pair of kings in her hand.
• pair [pE<3'] a matched set. 0 The buggy was pulled by a pair
114
passed-past
of matched bays.
• pair [pE3'-]
to set or arrange something in groups of two. 0
The graduates will pair up to march into the auditorium.
• pare [pE3'-]to peel or remove the skin or covering from
something; to cut something away. 0 Will you please pare the
potatoes for dinner? 0 We need to pare our budget by several
thousand dollars.
• pear [pE3'-]a fleshy, somewhat gritty fruit of a tree belonging
to the rose family. 0 The pear was juicy and tasty.
palate -pallet
•palate ['prei;)t] the roof of the mouth. 0
The dentist had to
numb his patient 's palate before he could remove the front tooth.
•palate ['prei;)t] an intellectual taste or enjoyment. 0 That
author's writing style does not suit my palate.
•pallet ['prei;)t] a lightweight, portable framework on which
materials in factories and warehouses can be stored or
0
transported. The bags of cement were stacked on a pallet
while awaiting shipment.
•pallet ['prei;)t] a sleeping tick or mattress. 0
A pallet, though
not very comfortable, makes an adequate sleeping surface.
•pallet ['prei;)t] an instrument used for forming or mixing
0
clay or colors. The artist used a pallet to combine several
different colors for the portrait.
pale See the main entry beginning with p l. ai
pallet See the main entry beginning with palate.
pane See the main entry beginning with pain.
pare See the main entry beginning with pair.
passed-past
•passed [prest] the past tense and past participle of pass 'to
move by and beyond someone or something. ' We passed 0
many vacationing families on the highway.
•passed [ away] [prest] the past tense and past participle of
pass [away] 'to die. ' 0
Her great-aunt passed away recently.
•passed [prest] the past tense and past participle of pass 'to
hand or transfer someone or something from one person to
0
another person. ' The relay team members passed the baton
smoothly from one to another. 0 After her parents died, Tess
was passed from relative to relative.
• passed [prest] pass
the past tense and past participle of '[for
a vote] to win approval from a legislative body.' 0 The bill
narrowly passed both houses ofthe state congress.
1 15
past
o past [pcest] in a previous time period; ago. 0 In years past,

life seemed so much simpler. 0 Grandpa was a spritely, spirited
man a long time past.
o after.
past [pcest] 0 The clock chimed at halfpast midnight.
o beyond.
past [pcest] 0 Go past the entrance and turn left at
the second door.
past See the main entry beginning with passed.
paste See the main entry beginning with paced.

patience -patients
patience ['peJ�nts] having the capacity to be steadfast, calm,
o
ordealuncomplaining. 0Kindergarten teachers must have a great

ofpatience.
patients ['peJ�nts] the plural of patient 'a person undergoing
o
D
medical treatment.' The doctor treats all of herpatients with
care and interest.
patients See the main entry beginning with patience.
pause -paws
pause [p::>z] a temporary break or stop. 0 After a briefpause,
o
the speaker continued.

pause [p::>z] to stop or linger for a time.
o 0
Let's pause at the
fountain and toss in a coin.
paws [p::>z] the plural of paw 'the foot of some warm-blooded
o
0
terrestrial animal having claws.' A lynx has huge paws.
paws [p::>z] the plural of paw 'a large, clumsy human hand.'
o
(A 0
figurative use of the previous sense.) "Get your paws off
me! " shouted the boy.
paws [p::>z] the present tense, third person singular of paw 'to
o
0
touch someone rudely or amorously.' Henry, it seems, paws
every girl who goes out with him.
paws [p::>z] the present tense, third person singular of paw 'to
o
grab at something repeatedly.' D The inexperienced mountain

climber paws the air wildly each time he loses his footing.
paws [p::>z] the present tense, third person singular of paw
o
0
'to bat or hit at something with a paw.' Each time the cat
catches a mouse, it paws its victim pitilessly. 0 When restless,
the stallion paws the stall floor.
paws See the main entry beginning with pause.
peace -piece
peace [pis] a state of security, tranquility, or order between
o
individuals, groups, or countries. D A war-torn nation knows

116
peal-peel
no peace. 0 The feuding brothers have finally made peace.

• peace [pis] a freedom from mental or emotional upheaval. 0
His cabin in the woods offers him a haven ofpeace.
• peace [pis] quiet; silence.0 With five children in the house,
the harried housewife has no peace.
• piece [pis] a portion of a whole. 0 May I please have the last
piece ofpie ?
• piece [pis] an artistic or literary composition. 0 The com
poser's piece for the piano won the competition. 0 That piece of
artwork was the first ever to be sold by the artist.
piece [pis]
kind or class.something regarded as an example of a unit of a
•
0 Mary does a piece of work at a time at the

garment factory.
• piece [pis] to patch someone or something together; to
complete something by adding pieces. 0 We might be able
to piece together a quilt from these scraps. 0 It was difficult to
piece together the jigsaw puzzle.
• piece [pis] a handgun; a revolver. (Police and underworld
slang.) 0 The robber carried his piece in a shoulder holster.
peak-peek-pique
•peak [pik] a prominent, pointed top or end of something. 0
The mountain peak was covered with snow.
•peak [pik] the highest level; the greatest degree. 0 He
reached the peak of his music career at age thirty.
•peak [pik] to reach a summit or maximum of something. 0
The physical condition of the racehorse should peak around the
date of the race.
•peek [pik] to glance secretly at something or someone. 0
Children are sometimes tempted to peek at their birthday
presents.
peek [pik]
• to take a brief look at someone or something. 0
Out of curiosity she wanted to peek at every room in the house.
pique [pik]
• 0 In a pique of
a fit of irritation or resentment.
anger, the child broke her favorite toy.
pique [pik]
• to arouse anger or resentment. 0 Try not to
pique his wrath by upsetting him.
pique [pik]
•
or rebuff. to provoke someone or something by a challenge

0 The coach 's pep talk served to pique his team 's
desire to win.
peal-peel
peal [pi!]
• 0
a loud ringing of bells, especially church bells.
Every Sunday morning the peal of the church bell summons
people to worship.
117
pear
• peal [pi!]
a loud sound or succession of sounds. 0 Her peal of
laughter was heard throughout the house.
• peel [pil]
to remove or strip off an outer layer of something.
o I had to peel the apples before I could make the cobbler.
• peel [pi!]
to remove clothing from a body. 0 Let's peel off
those wet clothes before you get a chill.
• peel [pil]
the skin or rind of a fruit. 0 The orange peel was
easy to remove.
pear See the main entry beginning with pair.
pearl-purl
pearl [pa--l] the lustrous round growth found in the shell of
•
some mollusks and used as a gem in jewelry. The diver 0

found a small pearl in the oyster.
• pearl [pa--! ]something resembling a pearl in color, value, or
physical qualities. 0 Dad always said he got a real pearl when
he married Mom.
• pearl [pa--l]to form in tiny droplets. 0 The light rain began
to pearl on the newly waxed surface.
• purl [pa--i]gold or silver thread. 0 Her gown was sewn with
silvery purl.
• purl [pa--!]to embroider with gold or silver thread. 0 My
aunt taught me to purl delicate handmade doilies.
• purl [pa--l the looped stitch
on the edge of lace. 0 The purl on
Jane 's lace collar caught on her necklace and ripped.
• purl [pa--i]the soft murmur of a gentle, swirling stream. 0
The purl of the slowly flowing brook was barely audible.
• purl [pa--l]to make a murmur. 0 The two streams purl quietly
where they meet.
pedal-peddIe -petal
pedal [ ' p£dl]
• 0 The gas pedal on her
a foot-operated lever.
car got stuck.
pedal [' p£d!]
• to move or propel something by foot, especially
0 Let 's pedal up to the corner drugstore for an ice
a bicycle.
cream cone. 0 The tiny toddler was not able to pedal his new
tricycle.
pedal ['p£dl]
• relating to or involving a pedal. 0 That antique
sewing machine is pedal-driven.
peddIe ['p£dl]
• to sell wares from place to place or door to
0 The vagrant tried to peddle small items to earn money.
door.
peddIe ['p£dl]
•
something. to seek to distribute something; to deal out

0 Since you can 't go to the football game, why don 't
you try to peddle your tickets at work ?
118
pi-pie
• petal ['pEdl, 'PEt!]a colorful segment of a flower's blossom.

o The petal of the orchid is an unusual color.
peddle See the main entry beginning with pedal.

peek See the main entry beginning with peak.
peel See the main entry beginning with peal.
peer-pier
•peer [pIa'] of equal standing with another. 0
A peerjury will
decide the fate ofthe accused woman.
•peer [pIa'] one of the ranks of the British peerage system. 0
Sir Arthur George is a peer of high rank.
•peer [pIa'] a companion, friend, or age-mate. 0
The students
will join their peer after school for a game of soccer.
•peer [pIa'] to look carefully or curiously at something not
easily discernible. 0 If you peer through a beach telescope in
Key West, you might be able to see Cuba.
•pier [pIa'] a vertical support between two openings. To0
enlarge the room, we 'll remove the center pier.
•pier [pIa'] a structural landing place extending into water. 0
Fishermen can be seen fishing off the pier at any time of day.
•pier [pIa'] a structure used to form or protect a harbor for
0
vessels. The long rock pier has a lighthouse on its point.
petal See the main entry beginning with pedal.
phase See the main entry beginning with faze.
phrase See the main entry beginning with frays.
pi-pie
•pi [pOI] the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diam
eter. 0The students were asked to memorize the formula for
figuring pi.
•
circle to itsthediameter.
pi [pOI] symbol denoting
0
the ratio of a circumference of a
Helen correctly wrote the pi symbol on
her math homework.
• pi [pOI] the sixteenth letter of the Greek alphabet. 0 Greek
letters, such as pi, look so much different than English letters.
• pie [pOI] a food dish made up of a crust and such filling as
fruit or meat. 0 The topping on the banana cream pie was stiff
• pie [pOI] a cake layer sliced horizontally and filled with
custard, fruit, or cream. 0 Tommy wanted a Boston cream pie
for dessert.
• pie [pOI] a multi-colored animal, usually with irregular mark
0
ings. The unusually marked horse was a pie.
1 19
pidgin-pigeon
pidgin-pigeon
pidgin ['pId3;:)n]
o
municate between apeople

simplified mannerlanguages.
of different of speechDused to com
Where more
than one language is commonly used, people often choose to
speak in pidgin.
pigeon ['pId3;:)n]
o
sembling, but largera fairly

than, stout,
a dove.usually domesticated bird re
0 A fake owl was set on the
rooftop to discourage the local pigeon population from landing
there.
o pigeon ['pId3;:)n]
a dupe; an easy mark. 0 The con artists
thought they could find a pigeon to help carry out their scheme.
pigeon ['pId3;:)n]
target shooting. a spherical, molded shape of clay used for
o
0 The young shooter hit every clay pigeon that

was thrown into the air.
pie See the main entry beginning with pi.
piece See the main entry beginning with peace.
pier See the main entry beginning with peer.
pigeon See the main entry beginning with pidgin.
pique See the main entry beginning with peak.
pistil- pistol
pistil ['pIStl] the part of a seed plant that bears the ovule
o
0
needed for reproduction. On some flowers the pistil is more
noticeable than on others.
pistol ['pIStl] a small, hand-held firearm.
o 0
She keeps a li
censed pistol for personal protection.
pistol See the main entry beginning with p til. is
plain-plane
plain [plen] simple; unadorned.
o 0
The house is very plain
both inside and out.
plain [plen] common; ordinary.
o 0
She has rather plain
features.
plain [plen] evident.
o 0
It was plain that Kevin would not
change his mind.
plain [plen] unobstructed.
o 0
The hotel on the hill was in
plain view of the surrounding area.
plain [plen] an extensive, unbroken expanse of flat or roll
o
0
ing treeless countryside. The empty plain looks bare and
unwelcoming.
plane [pi en] a tool used for smoothing or shaving a wood
o
0
surface. The craftsman used a small plane for his detail work.
120
pleas -please
• plane [plen] to make something even, level, or smooth. 0

I'll plane the tabletop before sanding and restaining it.
• plane [plen] a flat or level surface. 0 That piece ofequipment
must rest on a plane so it doesn 't tip over.
• plane [plen] an airplane. 0 Passengers should board the
plane through gate six.
• plane [plen] to skim across the water or soar on the wind. 0
The sailboats plane across the bay easily on windy days.
plait-plate
•plait [plet] a braid made of hair, straw, or some other mate
0 Her long hair was arranged in an elaborate plait for the
rial.
celebration.
•plait [plet] to interweave or braid something. 0 If we plait
these bundles ofstraw, they 'll be easier to carry.
•plate [plet] a flat, smooth, thin piece of material. 0 The
surgeon placed a small steel plate in his patient 's head during
the operation.
•plate [plet] a piece of table service.0 Please do not use the
cracked plate when we have guests for dinner.
•plate [plet] a thin layer of a precious metal, usually gold or
0 The serving tray had a silver plate.
silver.
•plate [plet] a printing surface of some type. 0 Carefully
arrange the items to be copied on the plate.
•plate [plet] to cover or coat something with some kind of
metal. 0 Thejeweler will plate the inexpensive metal ring with
gold to make it look shiny.
•plate [plet] the slab of rubber behind which a baseball or
softball catcher squats and next to which the batter stands. 0
The umpire cleaned off the plate after the runner slid in.
•plate [plet] a partial denture fitting. 0 He wears a small
upper plate.
plane See the main entry beginning with pJain.
plate See the main entry beginning with pJait.
pleas-please
•pleas [pliz] the plural of plea 'in a hearing or trial, the defen
0
dant's answer to the plaintiffs charges.' Since the defendants
stood mute, pleas of "not guilty " were entered for them.
•pleas [pliz] the plural of plea 'anappeal or entreaty.' 0
Nobody heeded the woman 's pleas for help.
•please [pliz] to give pleasure, satisfaction, or gratification to
0
someone. It is not hard to please Jack.
12 1
please
• please [piiz] 0
to be willing to do something. If you would
please be quiet, we can begin.
• please [piiz]
an expression that makes a request or command
more polite. 0 Please be seated.
please See the main entry beginning with pleas.

plum - plumb
plum [pi;)m] a purplish-red, smooth-skinned fruit.
• Mom 0
packed a sandwich, a plum, and some cheese and crackers in
my lunch.
• plum [pi;)m]
any of several trees or shrubs bearing such fruit.
o Our trees did not bear a single plum last summer.
• plum [pi;)m]
something superior or excellent. 0 Jill 's upbeat
solo performance was quite the plum.
• plum [pi;)m]
the color of plums. 0 The designer suggested
accenting her plum decor with forest green.
plumb [pi;)m]
vertical position.a lead weight attached to a line used to indicate
•
0 The plumb showed that the window

opening was slightly crooked.
• plumb [pi;)m]
straight up and down. 0 The walls need to be
plumb with the ceiling.
• plumb [pi;)m]
to measure depth with a lead weight attached
to a line. 0 The students are required to plumb the depths of
the different soil levels.
• plumb [pi;)m]
to supply or install plumbing in something. 0
The workers will plumb the new house next week.
plumb See the main entry beginning with plum.
pole-Pole -poll
pole [poi] a long, slender shaft. 0 A pole is used to reach the
•
apples in the tops of the trees.

pole [poi] the inside position on a racecourse. D The fastest
•
qualifying time wins the racecar driver the pole.

pole [poi] either extremity of an axis of a sphere.
• 0 Neither
pole of the planet Earth is inhabited by people.
pole [poi] either of two opposites.
• 0
His opinion on the
subject takes the opposite pole from his best friend 's.
0
Pole [poi] a person of the Polish nationality. Edgar's father
•
was a Pole and his mother a Swede.

poll [pol]
persons. theThecasting and recording of votes by a body of
•
0 final results of the poll show that neither

candidate won a majority of the votes.
• poll [poi] to question or canvass people randomly. 0 Some
voters do not admit in an exit poll how they really voted.
122
praise-prays-preys
o poll [pol] to shear or cut hair, wool, treetops, or cattle horns.

o As a safety precaution, the farmers poll all of their cattle's
horns.
poll See the main entry beginning with pole.
poor-pore -pour
poor [pJa-, pua-] having few material possessions.
o As a 0
child, he was very poor.
poor [pJa-, pua-] inferior in value or quality.
o 0
An old pickup
truck is a poor substitute for a luxury car when it comes to
driving comfort.
o poor [pJa-, pua-] D
eliciting pity or sympathy. I feel sorry for
poor Betsy with all of her troubles.
o poor [pJa-, pua-] 0
unproductive; fruitless. This year's corn
crop was very poor.
o pore [poa-] a tiny opening in the surface of a membrane
through which 0
materials pass. An infected skin pore can be
painful.
o pore [poa-] to read or study something attentively. 0
Mark
used to pore over any book dealing with jets.
o pore [poa-] to reflect on or ponder something. 0
Let me pore
over your suggestion before making a decision.
o pour [poa-, pua-] to cause something to flow steadily. 0
Pour
the milk slowly so you don 't spill it.
o pour [poa-, pua-] to produce something freely in large supply
0
quantity. Most parents pour love and affection onto their
orchildren.
o pour [poa-, pua-] to rain hard. 0 The weatherman said it will
pour for the next three days.
populace -populous
opopulace ['papj;;)l;;)s]
the general population of a given locale.
o The populace of any large city is in a constant state offlux.
opopulace ['papj;;)l;;)s]
masses of people. D A huge populace
showed up to support their leader.
opopulous ['popj;;)l;;)s]
crowded; densely populated. 0 Tokyo is
an excellent example of a populous city.
populous See the main entry beginning with populace.
pore See the main entry beginning with poor.
pour See the main entry beginning with poor.
praise-prays-preys
opraise [prez] to commend, glorify, or worship someone or
123
prays
something. D "Let us praise the Lord for our blessings, " began
the minister.
• praise [prez] to express a favorable opinion or evaluation of
someone or something. D My boss is not afraid to praise a job
well done.
• praise [prez] an act of praise. D A little praise goes a long
way.
• prays [prez] the present tense, third person singular of pray
'to speak to God or a deity.' D The little girl prays every night
before going to sleep. D The couple prays that their lost son will
soon be found.
• preys [prez] prey
the plural of 'an animal hunted by another
for food.' D The favorite preys of wolves are deer and moose.
preys [prez] prey
•
something thattheis helpless

plural ofor unable
'a target
to fendofoffevil;attack.
someone
preys of child molesters are often young, isolated children.
' or
D The
• preys [on] [prez] third person singular of prey '[for anoranimal]

to feed on another animal as a matter of preference habit.'
D Our snake preys on mice.
• preys [(up)on] [prez] third person singular of prey 'to take
advantage of someone or something; to have an ill effect on
someone or something.' D Mary always preys on my kindness.
D Pneumonia preys on people who are already weak from other
illnesses.
prays See the main entry beginning with praise.

precedent -president
precedent ['pn:s;)d;)nt] an example, rule, or judgment that
•
may later serve as a basis for decisions in similar cases. D In

this judicial case, there is no precedent indicating how the
problem might be handled.
• precedent ['prEs;)d;)nt] a prior occurrence of a similar type
that provides an example. D The teacher's behavior set a prece
dent for her student 's behavior.
• president ['prEz;)d;)nt] any presiding officer of an organiza
D As president
tion; a chief official or executive; a chief of state.
of the art guild, Lois has many duties and responsibilities. D
In the United States, a president is elected every four years.
presence -presents
presence ['prEZ;)nts]
• D Your presence at the
attendance.
hearing is required.
presence ['prEZ;)nts]
• an individual's immediate space or
D Don 't talk like that in the presence of children.
vicinity.
124
pries-prize
o presence ['pn:z;)nts] the bearing or air of a person, usually

D
involving poise and rapport with others. The queen has an
unmistakable presence about her.
opresents ['pr£z;)nts] the plural of present ' a gift.' 0
All of the
presents given to him were gag gifts.
presents See the main entry beginning with presence.
president See the main entry beginning with preceden t.
preys See the main entry beginning with praise.
pride -pried
opride [prOld] the feeling, quality, or state of being proud. 0
Bob 's parents felt a great deal of pride in his accomplishments.
opride [prOld] extreme self-esteem; conceit. 0
Do not let fool
ish pride keep you from making an apology.
opride [prOld] acceptable or reasonable self-respect. 0 She
takes pride in doing herjob well.
opride [prOld] to indulge in the feeling, quality, or state of
being 0
proud. They pride themselves on having the nicest
lawn on the street.
o pride [prOld] 0
a group [of lions]. In a pride of lions, the
females are the hunters.
o pried [into] [prOld] the past tense and past participle of pry
[intoJ 0
'to delve or inquire into something.' She always pried
into other people 's business.
o pried [prOld] the past tense
open or move something with aandtool.'past The
0
participle of pry 'to
thieves pried the
window open with a crowbar.
pried [apart] [prOld]
o
'to separate thepeople

pry [apartJ
pastortense
things,andusually
past participle
with someof
difficulty.' 0 The principal pried the fighting boys apart.
pried See the main entry beginning with pride.
pries-prize
opries [into] [prOtz] the present tense, third person singular
of pry [intoJ 'to inquire into something; to try to find out
0
information about something.' Jane thinks her mother pries
into her personal affairs too much. D If he pries too closely into
the material, he may discover the truth.
o pries [open] [prOlz] the present tense, third person singu
lar of pry [openJ 'to use a tool to open something.' 0 Each
morning, he pries open the stuck drawer to get to his socks.
o prize [prOlz] a reward offered to the winner of a contest or
125
prince -prints
game. 0 His prize in the hot dog-eating contest was a water

melon.
• prize [prOIz] something very desirable. 0 The girl he has
decided to marry is quite a prize.
• prize [proiz] to value something or someone highly.0 Em
ployers prize honesty as an important quality.
• prize [prOIz] wartime bounty or booty. 0 The soldiers
captured an important airstrip as a prize following the fierce
fighting.
prince -prints
prince [pnnts]
• aormale member of a royal family, especially
the son of a king queen. 0 The prince is tutored privately at
the castle. 0The heir to the king's throne is the eldest prince.
• prince [prmts] a male of high esteem or regard in his pro
fession or class. 0 Jerry is a prince of a boss.
• prints [pnnts] the plural of print 'a copy of a photograph or
0
piece of artwork.' The prints are ready to be picked up at the
store.
• prints [pnnts] the plural of print 'a fingerprint.' 0 The
police found Bill 's prints on the doorknob.
• prints [prmts] the present tense, third person singular of
print 'to press inked type on paper or a similar surface; to
0
publish in type.' The newspaper only prints an early edition
of the paper. 0 His business prints facsimiles of government
materials.
• prints [pnnts] the present tense, third person singular of
print 'to write using the letters of Roman type rather than
script.'0 She never prints her name; she always writes in script.
princes-princess
princes ['pnnsn]
• the plural of prince 'a male member of a
royal family, especially the son of a king or queen.' 0 The
princes are vacationing with the queen at an exclusive resort.
• princes ['pnns;:)z] the plural of prince 'a male who is held in
0
high esteem by his peers.' Both gentlemen were princes of
kindness in the eyes of their friends.
• princess ['pnns£s] a female member of a royal family; the
0
wife of a prince. The princess was expected to marry nobly. 0
The princess accompanies the prince on official state business.
• princess ['pnns£s] a woman known for her outstanding qual
0
ities. Ann has always been a princessstyle
ofgraciousness.
• princess ['prms£s] high-waisted. (A of dress, gown, or
0
blouse.) The wedding gown featured a princess waistline.
126
pros-prose
princess See the main entry beginning with princes.
principal-principle
•principal ['pnns;)pl] most important or influential. One of 0
the principal characters in the story is a stray dog.
•principal ['prms;)pl] the authoritative person in control,
usually 0
of a school. Ms. Brown will be the new principal
of the school.
• principal ['pnns;)pl] a sumrepayment
of moneyisthatdue;is the
loaned andpartuponof
which interest
0
is paid and main
an estate. The couple made monthly payments on the prin
cipal of their car loan. 0 The elderly man lives on the interest
of his estate and does not use the principal.
• principle ['pnns;)pi] a fundamental rule, law, or code of con
duct. 0 Our system of justice is based on the principle of
equality.
• principle ['pnns;)pl]the underlying facts of operation of na-
ture. 0 This new invention is based on the principle of gravity.
principle See the main entry beginning with principal.
prints See the main entry beginning with prince.
prize See the main entry beginning with pries.
profit -prophet
•profit ['prof;)t] a gain or return over and above an expendi
0
ture. If you buy those stocks now, you stand to earn a nice
profit in the future.
•profit ['prof;)t] to benefit or gain from something. 0
We will
all profit from our hard work.
•prophet ['prof;)t] a person who tells of divinely inspired
revelations 0
or predicts the future. Isaiah was a prophet
in biblical times.
•prophet ['prof;)t] a person gifted with uncommon moral and
D
spiritual insights. The minister was both a prophet and a
great leader.
•prophet ['prof;)t] a spokesperson for a cause or group. In 0
order for any progress to be made, a strong prophet for the cause
needs to emerge.
prophet See the main entry beginning with p ofit r .
pros-prose
pros [proz] the plural of pro 'professional.'
• 0
Two pros are
available at the golf course to give you tips on your game.
prose [proz] the common, nonpoetic language of people,
•
127
prose
0
either in the spoken or written form. The author's prose was
quite eloquent.
prose [proz] a literary style resembling that of common
•
0
speech. Our homework assignment included reading a
selection ofprose from our literature book.
prose See the main entry beginning with pros.
purl See the main entry beginning with pearl.
128
quarts-quartz
•quarts [wa'-ts] the plural of quart 'a measurement equalling
0
one quarter of a gallon.' Boil the pasta in two quarts of water.
•quarts [wa'-ts] the plural of quart 'a container with the
0
capacity of one quart.' Please pick up a couple of quarts
of milk at the grocery store when you come home.
•quartz [wa'-ts] a mineral that occurs in transparent crystals
0
and in natural crystalline masses. The geology instructor
brought in several samples of quartz for his class to examine.
quartz See the main entry beginning with quarts.
quay See the main entry beginning with key.
queue See the main entry beginning with cue.
129
rabbet-rabbit
rabbet ['rreblt]
• a groove cut into a surface and designed to be
fitted with a corresponding member to form a joint. Car 0
penters will often use a rabbet to join two pieces of wood neatly.
rabbet ['rreblt] to cut or fit a groove.
• 0 We need to rabbet this
surface in order to get a good fit.
rabbit ['rrebIt] a small, long-eared mammal belonging to the
•
hare 0
family. Sally plans to show her rabbit at the fair this
summer.
rabbit ['rrebIt] the fur or pelt of a rabbit.
• 0 Thejacket Mary
bought is made of rabbit.
rabbit See the main entry beginning with rabbet.
rack-wrack
rack [rrek] a framework on or in which articles are placed,
•
hung, or stored. 0 Lay that wet sweater on the rack rather than
hanging it on the clothesline.
rack [rrek] an instrument of torture.
• 0 The guard used the
rack to torture the prisoner.
rack [rrek] to cause acute pain, suffering, or anguish to
•
0
someone or something. The disease will continue to rack her
weakening body.
rack [rrek] to stretch or strain something violently.
• 0 His
violent coughs continued to rack his sore ribs.
rack [rrek] a horse's fast-moving, artificial pace.
• 0The show
horse must perform a series ofgaits, including the rack.
rack [rrek] a cut of meat from the rib section of an animal.
• 0
The king served a rack of lamb at the feast.
wrack [rrek] to ruin something completely.
• 0The hurricane
130
rain-reign-rein
will wrack the tiny island village.

• wrack [rrek] a shipwreck.0 Scuba divers continued to search
for the wrack on the reef
• wrack [rrek] a type of seaweed or other marine vegetation.
o Much wrack washed up onto the shore after the storm.
• wrack [rrek] the violent destruction of a vehicle, structure,
or machine. 0 The wrack of the beautiful city by the typhoon
was devastating.
rail-rale
•rail [reI] abarrier
bar extending from one support to another that
serves as a or guard. 0 Use the rail along the stairs for
extra support.
• rail [reI] the fence that borders a racecourse. 0 The horse on
the rail won the race.
• rail [reI] a railroad or track. 0
Sue prefers to travel by rail
rather than by air.
· rail [rei] a small, marshland bird belonging to the crane
0
family. Ifwe 're lucky, we may spot a rail in the swamp.
• rail [reI] to rant at or scold someone in harsh or abusive
0
language. Even after an apology, the angry man continued to
rail at the sales clerk.
• rale [reI] an abnormal breathing sound. 0 The doctor de
tected a rale in her patient 's chest.
rain-reign-rein
rain [ren]
• 0 The
falling precipitation in the form of droplets.
cool, refreshing rain was a relief after the hot, windy day.
rain [ren]
• to fall or pour down on someone or something like
0 Insult after insult continued to rain down on the
rain.
unpopular speaker.
rain [ren]
• to deposit or bestow something abundantly. 0
Parents rain love and affection on their children.
reign [ren]
• to possess or exercise power or authority over
someone or something. 0 Our bosses reign over everyone in the
company.
reign [ren]
· to predominate or rule over someone or some
0 Sometimes monarchs reign over their subjects for
thing.
decades.
reign [ren]
· the period of influence of a monarch or sovereign.
o The queen 's reign was marred by much violence.
rein [ren]
· a check line on either side of a bridle or halter that
0 Pull back on the bridle rein to
is used to control an animal.
get control of the horse.
rein [ren]
• complete freedom.0 Some parents give free rein
13 1
raise -rays -raze
to their children at an early age.

• rein [ren] a restraining influence. 0 A parent's control of the
car keys will put a rein on any teenager's behavior.
raise- rays -raze
raise [rez]
• 0
to lift or move someone or something upward.
Raise the hood of the car, please.
raise [rez]
• an increase in amount, usually in wages, salaries,
0 Afterjust six months on thejob, Kurt received a
bets, or bids.
raise.
raise [rez]
• to rouse or incite someone or something, usually
0 If we raise a loud protest, perhaps they
to promote action.
will listen to us.
raise [rez]
• to grow or cultivate someone or something. 0
Most parents raise their children carefully. 0 The Joneses only
raise cash crops.
raise [rez]
• 0 Our goal is to raise $300
to collect something.
for a new park sign.
raise [rez]
• to bring something up for consideration. 0 Why
does no one raise the obvious question ?
rays [rez]
• ray
the plural of 'a beam of light or some other
0 Warm rays of sunlight shone through the
radiant energy.'
forest canopy.
rays [rez]
• ray
the plural of 'any line, such a division or
as
0 The rays in those green leaves are dark purple.
vein.'
raze [rez]
• to destroy or demolish something to ground level.
o The work crew will raze the condemned building tomorrow.
raze [rez]
• to shave, cut, or scrape something off of something.
o The young boy tried to raze the peach fuzz from his face.
rale See the main entry beginning with rai1.
rancor-ranker
rancor ['rrelJka-, 'rrelJk:>a-] hatred.
• 0
Evil thoughts and rancor
seethed within the man.
ranker ['rrelJka-] an individual who serves or has served in the
•
ranks, usually a commissioned officer who has been promoted.

o
As a ranker, she can identify with troops as well as officers.
ranker See the main entry beginning with rancor.
rap -wrap
rap [rrep] a sharp knock or blow.
• 0
I heard a rap on the door.
rap [rrep] a criticism; a rebuke.
• 0
The man offered a stinging
rap to his opponent 's comments.
rap [on] [rrep] to strike something suddenly or sharply.
• 0
132
rapt
Rap thatjar on the table to loosen the lid.

rap [rrep] to arrest, retain,
slang.)or charge with criminal action.
o
(Police or underworld 0 The police plan to rap the

suspect with the recent crimes.
rap [rrep]
o
same name toin which

performlyricsin are
a rhythmic,
spoken tomusical
a steadystyle by the
background
0
beat rather than sung. Many high school students learn to
rap after school.
o wrap [rrep] to enclose or bundle something or someone by
enfolding or covering; to embrace someone or something. 0
Let's wrap ourselves in these warm blankets. 0 The little boy
likes to wrap his arms around his favorite stuffed bear when he
goes to sleep.
o wrap [up] [rrep] to completely immerse or involve someone
in something. 0 Some people wrap themselves up completely in
their work.
o wrap [rrep] an outer garment, similar to a cloak, that wraps
around the body. 0 Her wrap was a simple woolen shawl.
rapped-rapt-wrapped
rapped [on] [rrept] the past tense and past participle of rap
o
[on] 'to strike something suddenly or sharply.' 0

I rapped on
the window until someone saw me.
rapped [rrept] the past tense and past participle of rap 'to
o
charge someone with a criminal action.' (Police or underworld

0
slang.) The cops rapped the vagabond with trespassing and
vagrancy.
rapped [rrept] the past tense and past participle of rap 'to
o
perform in a rhythmic, musical style in which lyrics are spoken

totheaweesteady 0
background beat.' The musicians rapped until
hours of the night.
rapt [rrept] wholly absorbed or engrossed in something or
o
0
someone. We listened to the speaker with rapt attention.
wrapped [rrept] the past tense and past participle of wrap
o
'toIenclose
o
or bundle someone or something up by enfolding.'
wrapped all of the gifts by myself
wrapped [around] [rrept] the past tense and past participle
o
of wrap [around] 'to embrace or surround someone or some

thing.' 0 The friends wrapped their arms around each other.
wrapped [up] [rrept] the past tense and past participle of
o
wrap [up] 'to completely immerse oneself in or involve oneself

0
in someone or something.' She got so wrapped up in the
novel that she couldn 't put it down.
rapt See the main entry beginning with rapped.
133
rays
rays See the main entry beginning with raise.

raze See the main entry beginning with raise.
read-red
(See also read-reed. )
read [n:d] the past tense and past participle of read 'to look
•
at and comprehend written or printed matter.' The child 0

read at an early age. 0 He read aloud from the morning
newspaper.
• red [n,d] a color that resembles the color of blood.0 Jackie
wants to buy a red sports car.
• red [n,d] something resembling the color red. 0 His face
turned red with embarrassment.
• red [n:d] a Communist. 0 The artist was once accused of
being a red.
red [rEd]
•
political or asocial
personorder.
advocating the overthrow of an existing
0 The conservatives hoped to rid the
government of every red who threatened the political system.
read-reed
read [rid]
• to understand or utter aloud written or printed
matter. 0 Most children learn to read in first or second grade.
o Would you please read that part of the article again ?
• read [rid] to interpret the meaning of someone or something.
o How do you read the sudden change in John 's behavior ? 0
How do you read John on this matter?
• read [rid] to predict or foretell something. 0 Astrologers
claim to read the future by studying the stars.
• reed [rid] a tall, slender grass, usually found growing in
marshy areas. 0 The stem of a reed is hollow.
• reed [rid] a thin, flexible slat ofmusical
wood instruments.
or cane fixed to the
end of the mouthpiece of some 0 The
saxophone and clarinet are two instruments that require a reed
to produce sound.
• reed [rid] a comblike device used to separate the yarns on a
loom. 0 You must straighten the fibers using a reed before you
begin weaving.
real-reel
real [rill
• 0
actual; true; authentic. I saw a real giraffe at the
zoo.
real [ril]
• something stationary, fixed, or permanent, usually
0
land or buildings. My sister deals in real estate management.
• real [rit] measured by purchasing power. 0
His real income
is fairly substantial.
134
reed
• real [rillvery. (Informal.) 0 The students were real happy

when they finished their exams.
• reel [ril]a device around which something is wound. 0 The
reel on my fishing pole jam med when I dropped it.
• reel [ril]a quantity of something wound on a reel. 0 I need a
reel of cable to complete the job.
• reel [ril]to wind something in or upon as if on a reel. 0 Reel
the fish in close to the side of the boat so we can see it.
• reel [rillto fall or teeter backward as if from a blow. 0 The
lack of oxygen made my head reel.
• reel [rilla Scottish Highland dance or the music to which it
is performed. 0 The dancers kicked and stomped their feet
during the lively reel.
recede-reseed
recede [r�'sid]
• to draw or pull back or away from something.
o After two days at flood level, the river began to recede.
recede [r�'sid]
• 0 His financial debt finally began
to decrease.
to recede.
recede [ri'sid]
• to cede something back to someone. 0 The
landowner decided not to recede his property to his previous
tenants.
reseed ['ri'sid]
• 0 After the heavy rain, we
to sow seed again.
had to reseed the garden. 0 Each year they reseed their winter
wheat field. 0 Some fields naturally reseed themselves.
receipt-reseat
receipt [f)'sit]
• 0 You will be paid upon
the act of receiving.
the receipt of the signed contract.
receipt [f)'sit]
• a written acknowledgement of items or goods
0 Bring your receipt ifyou must return an item to the
received.
store.
receipt [f)'sit]
• 0 I will receipt the
to mark something as paid.
invoice when I receive the payment.
reseat ['ri'sit]
• to seat someone again.0 The ushers were
asked to reseat the audience following the false fire alarm.
reseat ['ri'sit]
• to reinstall someone in an office or seat of
0 The council will reseat its chairperson following his
dignity.
long illness.
reseat ['ri'sit]
• 0
to repair or replace the seat of something.
It will be necessary to reseat four of the antique chairs we
purchased at the auction.
red See the main entry beginning with read.
reed See the main entry beginning with read.
135
reel
reel See the main entry beginning with real.

reign See the main entry beginning with rain.
rein See the main entry beginning with rain.
reseat See the main entry beginning with receipt.
reseed See the main entry beginning with recede.
residence - residents
residence ['rEz�d�nts] the place where a person resides or
•
lives. D You must list your permanent residence on the applica

tion form.
• residence ['rEz�d�nts] a dwelling. D The police discovered the
residence of the suspect was empty.
• residence ['rEz�d�nts] the period of time one dwells in a
location for the fulfillment of duty or to receive a benefit. D
Members of Congress must establish residence in their home
districts.
• residence ['rEz�d�nts] a period for study, research, practice,
or teaching of medicine. D The doctor will serve her residence
at a local hospital.
• residents ['rEz�d�nts] the plural of resident 'someone who
lives in a place.' D The residents of that house are rarely at
home.
• residents ['rEz�d�nts]
the plural of resident
'a doctor who is
going through a period for study, research, practice, or
teaching.' D The young residents correctly diagnosed the
patient 's illness.
residents See the main entry beginning with residence.
rest-wrest
rest [rEst] to repose in sleep or relaxation. D I think I'll rest
•
after that vigorous walk.

rest [rEst] a place for resting or lodging. D My aunt 's cat uses
•
her mantle as a rest.

rest [rEst] peace of mind or spirit. D He won 't have any rest
•
until he knows whether he passed his exams.

rest [rEst] to bring something to an end. D Let 's Just let that
•
unlikely idea rest.

rest [rEst] remains; leftovers. D Put the rest of the food in the
•
refrigerator.
rest [rEst] a rhythmic silence in music. D The drummer
•
ignored the rest and continued playing.

wrest [rEst] to take something or someone forcibly; to gain
•
something with difficulty. D The prince was unable to wrest

136
rigger- rigor
power from the king. 0 The officers had to wrest the gun from
the attacker.
• wrest [rEst] to change the significance or truth of something.
o Joan tends to wrest the truth when making excuses for herself
retch -wretch
•retch [rEtJ] to vomit; to try to vomit. D The grisly sight made
me retch.
wretch [rEtJ]
•
vile individual.a miserable,

0
unfortunate person; an outcast or
The poor wretch had no job or means of
support. 0 In the movie, the villian was a terrible wretch.
review-revue
•review [n'vju] to look over, inspect, or survey something. 0
Let's review the results of the questionnaire.
•review [n'vju] to examine something again. 0 Be sure to
review all of the course material before taking the final exam.
•review [n'vju] a critical evaluation of a movie, book, or play.
o The off-Broadway play did not receive a very favorable
review.
•review [n'vju] a judicial examination. 0 The appeals court
has agreed to a review of that particular case.
•review [n'vju] a magazine devoted chiefly to reviews. 0 The
monthly business review has increased its readership recently.
•revue [n'vju] a theater production comprised of short songs,
dances, and comic sketches. 0 Audiences were excited about
the rollicking revue.
revue See the main entry beginning with review.
rigger-rigor
•rigger ['ng3'-] a specialized, sable brush used in painting
0
portraits or pictures. As a portrait artist, Maggie must
periodically replace her rigger with a new one.
•rigger ['ng3'-] a ship with a specific rig setup. D The square
rigger sailed serenely in the calm seas.
•rigger ['ng3'-] a person who fits, arranges, or sets up some
thing. D The house alarm is so complicated that the company
sends a rigger to install it for the customer.
•rigor ['ng3'-] strictness; severity. 0 The father of that family
rules with rigor.
•rigor ['ng3'-] stiffness; rigidity. 0 The rigor of the old woman 's
muscles makes stairs difficult to climb.
•rigor ['ng3'-] inflexibility of judgment, opinion, or tempera
ment. D All of the rigor of his younger days disappeared as he
mellowed with age.
137
right-rite -wright - write
• rigor ['ngac] a situation or condition that makes life difficult.

o The rigor of Marie 's lifestyle finally took its toll on her
health.
right-rite -wright -write

right [rOIt]
• correct; appropriate.0 Please wear the right type
of clothing on the camping trip. 0 I finally had to admit that
you were right.
right [rOIt]
• righteous.0 He is a right and honorable man.
right [rOIt]
• genuine. 0 Make sure the antiques you purchase
are right and are not reproductions.
right [rOIt]
• to justify or change something that is wrong.0 It
is too late to right the damage that has been done.
right [rOIt]
· 0 Turn right
a direction that is opposite of left.
at the next traffic light.
rite [rOIt]
• ceremony; a precise manner of carrying out a cere
0 The priest will perform the rite of baptism
monial tradition.
at the church this morning.
wright [rOIt]
• someone who makes or repairs certain things.
(Usually seen in compounds such as wheelwright and ship
wright.) 0 Grandpa looked all over the county for a wheelwright
who could (u; up the old buggy.
write [rOIt]
• to draw up, author, or compose something in
writing. 0 The author hopes to write a biography about that
famous sculptor. 0 Sue can write very poetic phrases.
rigor See the main entry beginning with rigger.
ring-wring
ring [rnJ] a circular band used to pull, hold, or hang some
·
0
thing. I keep my keys on a big ring so I don 't lose any ofthem.
ring [nul a piece of jewelry worn on the finger.
· 0Tom gave
Ann an engagement ring on Thanksgiving Day.
ring [nul a circular form or shape. 0 The glass of iced tea
•
left a water ring on the tabletop.

ring [nUl an arena where boxing matches take place. 0 The
•
audience applauded as the two boxers entered the ring.

ring [nul to form or place a ring around something.
• 0 We 'll
ring the base of the tree with flowers.
ring [nul a clear, resonant sound.
• 0 The teenager ran quickly
to the phone when she heard a ring.
ring [nul to make a clear, resonant sound.
• 0
When I tried to
ring the doorbell, I discovered it didn 't work.
ring [nul a telephone call.
• 0I'll give you a ring as soon as I
get home.
138
roe-row
• wring [rIIJ] to twist or squeeze something in order to extract

moisture or liquid. D Wring the water from your socks after
you take them off
• wring [rIIJ] to obtain or acquire something by coercion or
violence. D The nasty cop tried to wring a confession from the
innocent man.
• wring [rIIJ] to twist the hands together in an expression
of grief or anguish. D Her mother used to wring her hands
whenever she was upset.
• wring [rIIJ] to shake hands vigorously. D Why must he always
wring everyone 's hands so hard ?
• wring [rIIJ] to contort something by twisting. D Did your
mother ever tell you that she would wring your neck if you
misbehaved ?
rite See the main entry beginning with right.
road-rode-rowed
road [rod] an open pathway for vehicles, people, and animals.
•
D The rural road is a very scenic drive.

road [rod] a somewhat protected anchorage place for ships
•
and boats. D Lahaina road was a favorite port for early visitors
to the island of Maui.
•rode [rod] the past tense of ride 'to travel in or on something.'
D Jane rode the bus to work for years.
•rode [rod] the past tense of ride 'to be sustained by some
thing; to continue something without interference.' D The
candidate rode a wave of popularity during his campaign. D
The team rode all the way to the championship.
• rode [rod] ride
the past tense of 'to nag, tease, or harass
someone.' D Jane continually rode her husband about his poor
golfgame.
• rowed [rod]
the past tense and past participle of 'to row
propel a boat by using oars.' D We rowed across the lake
against the wind.
rowed [rod] row
•
someone's hairtheintopastrows.'
hair.
tense and past participle of 'to form
D The hair stylist rowed her client's
rode See the main entry beginning with road.

roe-row
•roe [ro] the eggs of fish. D The roe of sturgeon is known as
camar.
•roe [ro] a speckled figure sometimes seen in sawn lumber. D
The lumber buyer would not buy any wood containing a roe.
139
roes-rose -rows
• row [ro] to propel a boat by using oars. 0 [fyou don 't want
to row, we can use the outboard motor.
• row [ro] to form something into rows. 0 Be careful how you
row the vegetable plants in the garden.
• row [ro] a number of objects in a sequence or series. 0 Each
row of desks was neatly aligned in the classroom.
• row [ro] a street occupied by a specific kind of enterprise.0
They live in a row of homes in the new development area.
roes -rose -rows
(See also
rouse-rows. )
roes [roz]
• roe
the plural of 'the eggs of fish.'0 Roes are usu
ally either red, yellow, or black and are often eaten in Japanese
restaurants.
roes [roz]
• roe
the plural of 'a speckled figure sometimes seen
0 Because of so many roes in that wood, the
in sawn lumber.'
sawmill decided to discount its price.
rose [roz]
• the fragrant blossom of a shrub with thorny stems
by the same name. 0 Be sure to cover the rose during the
winter. 0 On her birthday, Katie 's husband gave her a single
sweetheart rose.
rose [roz]
• a cut of gemstone that resembles a rose. D The
ring contained a single rose garnet.
rose [roz]
• 0
resembling a rose in shape, fragrance, or color.
Mother always wears rose perfume. 0 She wore a rose dress to
the party.
rose [roz] rise
•
ascend.' the past tense of 'to elevate oneself or itself; to

0 He rose slowly from his comfortable chair.
rows [roz]
• row
the plural of 'a number of objects in a straight
0 The new cars stood in long rows on the factory lot. 0
line.'
Rows of commercial buildings make up the business district.
rows [roz] row
•
'to propel a the

boatpresent
by usingtense,
oars.'third person singular of
0 The avid fisherman rows
around the entire pond every afternoon.
roil-royal
roil [roll]
• 0 Don 't roil your brother
to disturb or rile someone.
by nagging at him.
roil [rod]
• to stir up or move something about violently. 0
The floodwaters will no doubt roil the sediment at the mouth of
the river.
royal [rod]
• 0 Mark
of noble ancestry; relating to the crown.
comes from a royal family. 0 The royal couple will attend the
parade.
royal [roll]
• of great magnitude, quality, or size. (Colloquial.)
140
rough-ruff
D "I have a royal headache, " moaned Liz.

o royal [roll] a male deer of at least eight years that has an
antler configuration of at least twelve points. 0 We saw a
magnificent royal on the mountainside.
o royal [roll] a shade of bright purplish-blue. D His royal shirt
was very handsome.
role-roll
role [rol]
o a part played by a singer or actor. D Her role in the
play was a minor one.
role [rol]
o a function.D We 'll never know for sure what role
he played in the discovery.
roll [rol]
o a scroll. D The messenger handed the roll to the
king.
oroll [rol] a list of names.D Before we begin, let me call roll.
oroll [rol] something formed into the shape of a roll. D Jessie
had a roll ofdollar bills in his pocket.
roll [rol]
o to cause someone or something to move forward by
turning over and over.D It is easier to roll an object down a hill
than to carry it.
roll [rot]
o to rob a person by pilfering his or her pockets. D
Someone entered the dormitory room and tried to roll the
occupants while they slept.
oroll [rot] to travel along something. D I like the sound of
trains as they roll along the tracks.
oroll [rot] a sound of sustained, rapid drumbeats. D The
drummer was required to perform a long roll during the march.
roll See the main entry beginning with role.
rose See the main entry beginning with roes.
rote-wrote
orote [rot] the use of memory with little understanding or
intelligence. D Learning by rote is not the best way to learn.
orote [rot] an automatic or mechanical repetition or routine
involving little thought. D Through shear rote Daniel was able
to clean his apartment even though he had the flu.
owrote [rot] the past tense of write 'to spell out words, usually
on paper.' D Mike wrote the alphabet on the blackboard. D
Dad wrote us a letter to tell us the time his plane would arrive.
rough-ruff
rough [r;)f1
o coarse or irregular. D The dog has a rough coat.
rough [r;)f1
o wild; turbulent. D We had a rough flight over the
mountains.
14 1
rouse-rows
• rough [r;}fJ taxing; difficult. 0 The orphan had a rough

childhood.
• rough [r;}fJ crude; unrefined; something in a preliminary or
unfinished state. 0 Jane 's manners are a little rough. 0 A
rough copy of that report is due by noon.
• rough [r;}fJ the brushy, uneven area bordering a golf fairway.
o Bob hit the ball into the rough between the sand traps.
• rough [r;}fJ to maul or manhandle someone or something. 0
The thug tried to rough up and frighten the old man.
• rough [r;}fJ a freshwater perch found in Europe. 0 The res
taurant serves a tasty rough every Wednesday night.
• ruff [r;}fJ the hair or feathers around the neck of an animal.
D The dark red dog has a ruff of thick golden hair.
• ruff [r;}fJ a stiff, pleated collar worn by women and men in
the 1500's and 1600 's. 0 The Elizabethan actor looked un
comfortable in the starched ruff.
rouse -rows
(See also roes-rose-rows.)
rouse [rauz] to wake someone or something from slumber or
•
repose. 0 It is very difficult to rouse someone from a deep sleep.

rouse [rauz] to stir up or excite someone or something. D
•
The mob 's leader tried to rouse his followers into action.
rows [rauz] the plural of row 'a loud quarrel or argument.' 0
•
Police were called to the couple 's residence because of the noisy
rows.
rout-route
rout [rout] a disorderly retreat. 0 During the rout, the sol
•
diers fled in all directions.

rout [rout] a state of wild confusion. 0 There was a rout as
•
both baseball teams cleared the benches.

rout [raut] a disastrous defeat. 0 The game ended in a rout
•
for the home team.

rout [raut] a disturbance; a riot. 0 Someone reported a rout
•
in the apartment building late last night.

rout [raut] to defeat someone or something decisively. 0 The
•
commander told his troops they would surely rout the enemy.
rout [raut] to cut an edge or groove in a surface. 0 Carpenters
•
often rout decorative edges on furniture.

rout [rout] to dig up or discover something. 0 Let 's see ifyou
•
can rout the truth about what really happened.

rout [rout] to search something awkwardly; to rummage
•
something. 0 If we rout the room, we may destroy valuable

evidence. 0 Rout around in the drawer for some scissors.
142
rung-wrung
• route [rout, rut] a course or territory to be covered; an estab

lished passage for travel. 0 The girl 's paper route covers several
neighborhoods. 0 The route I take to work is always busy in the
morning.
• route [rout, rut] to cause something or someone to take a
specific direction or path. 0 The detour will route traffic away
from the road repair area.
route See the main entry beginning with ro u t.
row See the main entry beginning with ro e.
rowed See the main entry beginning with road.
rows See the main entry beginning with roes and the main entry
beginning with rouse.
royal See the main entry beginning with roil.
rude -rued
•rude [rud] lacking refinement or tact ; offensive in action or
manner. 0 His supervisor is a rude person. 0 The supervisor's
rude comments offended many employees.
•rued [rud] the past tense and past participle of rue 'to feel
sorrow or regret about something. ' (Almost always in the
expression rue the day. ) 0 As a lonely millionaire, John rued
the day he wished for fame and fortune.
rued See the main entry beginning with rude.
ruff See the main entry beginning with rough.
rung-wrung
rung [r;)I]] a crosspiece of a ladder. 0 Don 't use that ladder
•
until the cracked rung is replaced.

rung [r;)I]] a stage or degree of ascent. 0 He eventually
•
reached the top rung in the corporation.

rung [r;)I]] a spoke of a wheel. 0 A rung in the front wheel is
•
bent.
rung [r;)I]] a connecting support in the legs of a chair. 0 Is it
•
possible to replace a broken rung in a chair ?

rung [r;)I]] the past participle of ring 'to make a clear, musical
•
sound, by striking metal or glass. ' 0 The alarm had rung

loudly for many minutes before Bill turned it off
rung [r;)I]] the past participle of ring 'to place a telephone
•
call. ' 0 The telephone operator has rung the number repeatedly.
wrung [out] [r;)I]] the past participle of wring [out] 'to twist
•
or squeeze something to extract moisture. ' 0 I had wrung the
143
rye - wry
wet clothing out before hanging it on the clothesline.

• wrung [r;) lJ l the past participle of wring 'to twist one's hands
together in grief or anguish. ' 0 When first confronted with the
bad news, he had wrung his hands, but now he is calmer.
• wrung [r;) lJ l the past participle of wring 'to grasp and shake
someone's hand vigorously. ' 0 It seems the politician had
wrung the hands of everyone in town.
• wrung [r;) lJ l the past participle of wring 'to twist. ' 0 He had
wrung the necks of the three chickens in preparation for the big
chicken dinner.
rye - wry
rye [rOIl a hardy grain used for cereal or grown for cover. D
•
Most of the farmland is planted in barley and rye.

wry [ rOIl cleverly humorous, often with a grim or ironic
•
twist. D Tom has a wry sense of humor.

wry [ rOIl made with facial contortions. 0 His wry smile made
•
me suspicious.
wry [rOIl marked by impropriety. 0 None of us appreciated
•
her pointed, wry comments.
144
sac- sack
•sac [seek] a pouch containing fluid inside a plant or animal.
o Among seahorses, the male carries the egg sac containing the
young.
•sack [seek] a container made of paper or other material that
is used to carry items. 0 I carried my groceries home in a sack.
sack [seek] a loose-fitting style of coat or dress. 0 The sack
•
was once a very popular dress style.

sack [seek] dismissal . 0 After working for the company for ten
•
years, his sack was totally unexpected.

•sack [seek] to plunder or loot something after capture. 0 The
soldiers continued to sack the city for days.
•sack [seek] to put something into a sack. 0 Will you help me
sack these groceries ?
•sack [seek] to fire or let someone go. 0 Most employers don 't
like to sack faithful workers in bad times.
sack See the main entry beginning with sac.
sacks-sax
•sacks [seeks] the plural of sack 'a container made of paper or
other material. ' 0 Put all of the empty sacks in the cupboard.
•sacks [seeks] the plural of sack 'a loose-fitting style of coat or
dress. ' 0 The models wore sacks of various colors over their
dresses.
•sacks [seeks] the present tense, third person singular of sack
'to plunder or loot something after capture. ' 0 The platoon
sacks each city that it conquers.
sacks [seeks] the present tense, third person singular of sack
•
'to pack things into a sack. ' 0 Bob sacks groceries after school
145
sail- sale
and on weekends.
• sacks [seeks] the present tense, third person singular of sack
'to dismiss someone from employment. ' 0 If your company
sacks you, file a complaint immediately.
• sax [seeks] a saxophone. 0 A sax is an essential part of a jazz
band.
sail- sale
sail [set] an expanse of fabric hoisted above sailing vessels to
•
catch the wind and propel the ships through water. D Due
to the heavy seas and high winds, the main sail tore.
sail [set] to travel aboard a vessel propelled by the wind. 0
•
The couple wanted to sail from Florida to Bermuda.

sail [sel] to glide through something without much effort. 0
•
Henry hoped to sail through his interview and get the job
without any problems.
sale [set] the act of selling something or transferring owner
•
ship of something from one person to another. D The sale of

our home was completed quickly.
sale [set] the disposal of items at bargain prices. 0 The
•
department store sale will last through the weekend.

sale [sel] the availability of something for purchase. 0 His
•
tractor is not for sale.

sale [set] gross receipts. 0 The total month 's sale was above
•
average.
sale See the main entry beginning with sail.
sane -seine
sane [sen] mentally sound or stable. 0 The accused man was
•
declared sane and capable of standing trial.

seine [sen] a large, weighted net with floats on one side
•
designed to drag through water and catch fish. 0 We tried to

catch minnows in the stream by using a large seine.
seine [sen] to fish or catch something with a seine. 0 Terry
•
wanted to seine the pond in hopes of catching the big bass.

saver- savor
saver ['seva'-] a person who collects and keeps something. 0
•
Bernice is a compulsive saver offood coupons.

saver ['seva'-] a person who rescues someone or something
•
from harm . 0 Mr. Smith is known as a saver of lost or injured

animals.
savor ['seVa'-] to relish or delight in something. 0 The smell
•
of the first campfire of the season is an odor to savor.

savor ['seVa'-] to smell or taste something with great pleasure.
•
146
scull- skull
o Mary likes to savor her first cup of coffee of the morning.

• savor [ ' seYa'-] a distinctive smell or flavor. 0 Vintage wine
has a unique savor all its own.
savor See the main entry beginning with saver.
sax See the main entry beginning with sacks.
scene-seen
scene [sin] the site of an action or occurrence. 0 The scene of
•
the accident was secured by police.

scene [sin] a stage setting. 0 During the play, the scene was
•
darkened to create a feeling of the unknown.

scene [sin] a division of a theatrical performance. 0 She does
•
not appear in the play until the third scene.

scene [sin] a display of inappropriate behavior or anger. 0
•
The angry customer made quite a scene.

seen [sin] the past participle of see 'to visualize someone or
•
something. ' 0 In her mind she has seen the man of her dreams.
seen [sin] the past participle of see 'to understand something. '
•
o We have seen the value of saving money.

seen [sin] the past participle of see 'to perceive someone or
•
something with the eye. ' 0 I have never seen him look so happy
in his whole life.
seen [sin] the past participle of see 'to examine or watch some
•
one or something. ' 0 The investigators have seen all of the

evidence.
seen [to] [sin] the past participle of see [toJ 'to escort or
•
accompany someone to a place. ' 0 The volunteers have seen

each of the patients safely to his room.
scent See the main entry beginning with cent.
scents See the main entry beginning with cents.
scull-skull
scull [sk�1] a type of oar used at the stern or back of a boat to
•
move it forward. 0 The scull accidentally fell into the water.

scull [sbl] a racing boat propelled by sculls. 0 A great deal
•
of strength is needed to man a racing scull.

scull [sk�l] to propel a boat using a scull or large oar. 0 The
•
plan was to scull the vessel rather than use its motor.
skull [sk�I] the skeleton of the head of a vertebrate that en
•
closes and protects the brain. 0 Workmen uncovered the skull

of a large mammal at the building site.
skull [sk�l] a mind. 0 Try to get this message into your skull.
•
147
sea-see
sea- see
sea [si] the body of saltwater covering most of the earth 's
•
surface; a large body of saltwater that is not quite landlocked.

o Not all fish can live in the sea. 0 The sea is surrounded on
three sides by land.
sea [si] a motion or rough disturbance on the surface of a
•
large body of water. 0 The brisk wind and fairly calm sea
made for ideal sailing conditions.
see [si] to visualize something or someone. 0 I can see trouble
•
brewing.
see [si] to understand something. 0 Susan did not see the
•
point he was trying to make.

see [si] to perceive someone or something. 0 We could see
•
storm clouds forming on the horizon.

see [si] to examine or watch someone or something. 0 Wait
•
and see what develops.

see [si] to escort or accompany someone or something to
•
some place. 0 The boys promised to see their dates home.
sealing See the main entry beginning with ceiling.
seam - seem
seam [sim] a joint where two pieces of fabric are sewn
•
together. 0 A seam on my new blouse came apart.

seam [sim] to stitch two pieces of fabric together. 0 He will
•
seam the torn tent {lap.

seam [sim] a ridge, line, or groove formed by the joining of
•
edges. 0 I felt every seam in the bumpy road.

seam [sim] a thin layer of mineral between two distinctive
•
layers of earth. 0 A seam of silver runs through the bedrock.

seem [sim] to appear; to give evidence of the existence or
•
presence of someone or something. 0 The new nurses seem to

enjoy their hard work. 0 There doesn 't seem to be anyone here.
seas- sees-seize
seas [siz] the plural of sea 'a body of saltwater. ' 0 The seas
•
near the arctic are cold and rough. 0 Three different seas
surround the country of Greece.
seas [siz] the plural of sea 'the surface conditions of a large
•
body of water. ' 0 The ship 's captain alerted the crew to the
rough seas ahead.
sees [siz] the present tense, third person singular of see ' to
•
visualize something. ' 0 Jane sees her future goals as being

attainable.
sees [siz] the present tense, third person singular of see 'to
•
148
seize
understand something. ' 0 Mother sees the value of teaching

her children to be independent.
• sees [siz] the present tense, third person singular of see ' to
perceive someone or something with the eye. ' 0 Larry awakens
early and sees the sun rise each day.
• sees [siz] the present tense, third person singular of see 'to
make sure that something is done. ' 0 The bus driver sees that
the children get off the bus safely.
• sees [to] [siz] the present tense, third person singular of see
[to} 'to escort someone to some place. ' 0 The butler sees all
visitors to the door when they leave.
• seize [siz] to grasp someone or something; to take something
by force. 0 The military will someday try to seize control of the
government. 0 I wanted to seize her arm so we could talk.
• seize [siz] to capture someone or something. 0 The troops
tried without success to seize a truck convoy.
• seize [siz] to take over one's mind completely. 0 Try not to
let jealousy seize your mind.
sects- sex
sects [sEkts] the plural of sect 'a religious denomination . ' 0
•
Many different sects were represented at the religious conference.

sects [sEkts] the plural of sect ' a party, cult, or faction. ' 0
•
The leaders of those sects demand total obedience from their

followers.
sex [sEks] either of the two sexual divisions of organisms,
•
male or female. 0 The expectant parents did not wish to know

the sex oftheir unborn child.
sex [sEks] pertaining to sexual phenomena or behavior. 0
•
The sex offender was sent to prison.

sex [sEks] to determine the sex of some creature. 0 Hisjob at
•
the chicken hatchery is to sex newly hatched chicks.

see See the main entry beginning with sea.
seed See the main entry beginning with cede.
seeder See the main entry beginning with cedar.
seem See the main entry beginning with seam.
seen See the main entry beginning with scene.
sees See the main entry beginning with seas.
seine See the main entry beginning with sane.
seize See the main entry beginning with seas.
149
sell
sell See the main entry beginning with cell.
seller See the main entry beginning with cellar.
sense See the main entry beginning with cents.
senses See the main entry beginning with census.

sensor See the main entry beginning with censer.
sensual-sensuous
sensual ['smJul] having to do with physical or sexual satis
•
faction. D The exotic dance was very sensual in nature.

sensuous ['smJu�s] having to do with the senses. D Walking
•
through the field of wildflowers was a sensuous delight.

sensuous See the main entry beginning with sensual.
sent See the main entry beginning with cent.
serf-surf
serf [S<3'f]
• a member of the peasant class bound to the land
and subject to the will of the owner or overseer in a feudal
society. D Each serf was allowed to keep a portion of the crops
he grew.
surf [S<3'f] the swell, foam, splash, or sound of breaking waves
•
upon a shore. D The sound of the surf lulled me to sleep.

surf [S<3'f] to ride the waves. D Curt learned to surf while
•
visiting relatives in California.

serial See the main entry beginning with cereal.
session See the main entry beginning with cession.
set -sit
set [SEt] to place something onto something. D Would you
•
please set this vase on the mantel ?

sit [SIt] to rest on one's buttocks, as in a chair. D Please sit
•
over there.
sew-so- sow
sew [so] to stitch or hold something together using needle
•
and thread. D Sew that loose button on the shirt before it falls
off.
so [so] as indicated or suggested. D Dad gave us an idea
•
about how to handle the problem, and we agreed to do so.

so [so] therefore. D That is a silly plan, so let's forget about it.
•
so [so] conforming to actual facts. D Lisa said certain things

•
that were not so.
150
shoe- shoo
• so [so] very; to a great degree. 0 Jeff's job promotion made

him so happy that he took his family out to dinner.
• sow [so] to plant with seed. 0 Farmers sow winter wheat in
the fall.
• sow [so] to set something into motion. 0 Mike will try to sow
the plans needed to get the project underway.
sex See the main entry beginning with sects.
shall-will
shall [Srel] in the future. (A form used with the first person, I
•
or we in formal speech or writing. ) 0 I shall consider your idea

carefully. 0 We shall try not to be late.
will [wII] in the future. (A form used with all three persons I,
•
we; you; or he, she, it, they except in formal speech or writing. )
o I will have your report finished by noon. 0 You will be
reimbursed for the lost article. 0 They will no longer work here
after June.
will [wIl] determination ; resolve. 0 Where there 's a will
•
there 's a way.

will [WIt] a legal document that specifies how one's property
•
is disposed of after one's death. 0 My grandfather mentioned

me in his will, but there was nothing left of the estate after the
lawyers and the tax people took what was theirs.
shear-sheer
shear [Jiac] to cut, shave, or clip something, usually hair or
•
wool. 0 Many farmers must shear their own lambs and sheep.
shear [Siac] to cut something with something sharp. 0 A
•
good knife can shear even the toughest pieces of meat.

shear [Siac] a scissors or cutting tool. D I need to have my
•
sewing shear sharpened.

sheer [Jiac] pure, complete, or utter. 0 People bungee jump
•
for sheer excitement. 0 It was sheer luck that they met after so
many years.
sheer [Jiac] transparent; filmy. 0 The costume was made from
•
a sheer fabric.
sheer [Jiac] to swerve suddenly or change course. 0 The sud
•
den appearance of the mountaintop caused the pilot to sheer to

his left.
sheer See the main entry beginning with shear.
sheik See the main entry beginning with chic.
shoe -shoo
shoe [Su]
• an article of footwear. 0 The toddler put his shoe
15 1
shone -shown
on the wrong foot.

• shoe [Ju] something resembling a shoe. D The shoe on the
sled runner is rusted.
• shoe [Ju] a device that controls, slows, or stops the motion of
some object. D One brake shoe on the car has gone bad.
• shoe [Ju] to provide or fit someone or something with a shoe.
D Those blacksmiths travel around to farms to shoe any horses
needing new horseshoes.
• shoo [Ju] to brush, scare, or send someone or something away.
D Shoo those flies away from the freshly baked pies.
shone - shown
shone [Jon] the past tense and past participle of shine 'to
•
give off rays of light.' D The sun shone after the rainstorm.
shone [Jon] the past tense and past participle of shine 'to be
•
bright and luminous. ' D His eyes shone brightly as he stepped

forward to receive his award.
shone [Jon] the past tense and past participle of shine 'to be
•
distinguished or eminent . ' D Her career as an educator shone

above all of her peers.
shown [Jon] the past participle of show 'to exhibit something;
•
to demonstrate something. ' D That house has been shown by

several different real estate agents. D Nancy has shown her
crafts at various local shows.
shoo See the main entry beginning with shoe.
shoot See the main entry beginning with chu te.
shown See the main entry beginning with shone.
side - sighed
side [sOld] the left or right edge of the body. 0 The left side
•
of her body was affected by the stroke. D I prefer to sleep on my

side.
side [sOld] a space or place in relation to the center of some
•
thing. D Put the book on the left side of the shelf

side [sOld] an outer edge or boundary. D Players must remain
•
at the side of the field when not in the game.

side [sOld] an activity or attitude of one body or persons with
•
regard to another. D My mother's side of the family has brown

eyes.
side [sOld] to support or agree with someone or something.
•
D I refuse to side with either of the quarrelers.

side [sOld] to furnish something with sides or siding. D Our
•
neighbors want to side their house with a bright color.
152
sine
• sighed [sOld] the past tense and past participle of sigh 'to
emit a drawn-out, audible breath. ' 0 The weary woman sighed
after a long day 's work.
• sighed [sOld] the past tense and past participle of sigh 'to say
something with a drawn-out, audible breath. ' 0 "How much
farther do we have to go ? " sighed the tired child.
sighed See the main entry beginning with side.
sighs -size
•sighs [SOlZ] the plural of sigh 'a drawn-out, audible breath . ' 0
After the tense situation ended, people gave many sighs of relief
•sighs [SOIZ] the present tense, third person singular of sigh
'to utter a drawn-out, audible breath. ' 0 Her father always
sighs when puzzled.
•size [SOIZ] a physical measurement or dimension. 0 Because
of Tom 's immense size, several pro teams were interested in
recruiting him as a blocker.
•size [SolZ] a series of graduated measures. 0 He wears a large
size in clothing.
•size [SolZ] actual state or condition . 0 We cannot alter the
size of the circumstances.
•size [SolZ] to make a judgment of something or someone. 0
"How do you size up this situation ? " asked Jim.
•size [SolZ] to arrange or classify something by size. 0 The
grocer has to size all of the oranges before he can price them.
•size [SolZ] to stiffen something, usually with starch. 0 The
dry cleaners will size your shirts ifyou request it.
sight See the main entry beginning with cite.
sign-sine
sign [sam] a signal, motion, or gesture indicating some
•
thought. 0 The referee gave the sign for the game to begin.
sign [sam] a placard or lettered board used to display adver
•
tising or information. 0 The highway sign was visible at night.

sign [sam] one of the twelve divisions of the zodiac. 0 Jerry
•
was born under the sign of Leo.

sign [sam] to communicate manually with sign language. 0
•
The deaf woman never learned to sign.

sign [sam] to place one's signature on formal written matter.
•
o Please sign on the bottom line.

sine [sam] a mathematical function in trigonometry dealing
•
with angles. 0 The math student was unable to figure the sine
of the diagram.
sine See the main entry beginning with sign.
153
sit
sit See the main entry beginning with set.

site See the main entry beginning with cite.
size See the main entry beginning with sighs.
skull See the main entry beginning with scull.
slay- sleigh
slay [sle] to kill or murder someone or something violently.
•
o It was wrong to slay the deer merely for its antlers.

slay [sle] to overwhelm; to impress. (A slang exaggeration.)
•
o Gerry thought he could slay the girls with his good looks.
sleigh [sle] a sled with runners designed to carry goods or
•
people over ice and snow. 0 That country inn offers rides in an
antique sleigh to its guests during the wintertime.
sleigh See the main entry beginning with slay.
sleight - slight
sleight [sIOlt] deception ; craftiness. 0 The magician 's skill
•
ful sleight fooled everyone.

slight [sIOlt] trivial. 0 His error was so slight that no one
•
even noticed.
slight [sIOlt] scanty. 0 Jane 's dress was very slight.
•
slight [sIOlt] having a delicate, slim build. 0 The suspect was

•
described as blond and slight.

slight [sIOlt] small in amount, number, or kind. 0 Addjust a
•
slight amount of salt to the soup.

slight [sIOlt] to treat someone or something as unimportant;
•
to ignore or neglect someone. 0 I didn 't mean to slight your

question. 0 Ifyou slight the guest of honor, you 'll be considered
rude.
slight [sIOlt] an insult; rude behavior. 0 Mary 's obvious
•
slight of her mother-in-law was noted by many people.

slight See the main entry beginning with sleigh t.
so See the main entry beginning with sew.
soar- sore
soar [soac] to sail or fly high and unencumbered. 0 I wonder
•
what it is like to soar in a glider plane.

soar [soac] to move upward in status or position . 0 The
•
actor's popularity began to soar with the release of his first

movie.
sore [soac] an open, often infected wound. 0 You should put
•
some salve on that sore.
154
sole - soul
o sore [so(')'] a source of irritation or pain. 0 Any discussion of

his past was a sore for him.
o sore [so(')'] to be painfully sensitive. 0 My back is sore today
for some reason.
o sore [so(')'] vexed or angered. 0 Don 't be a sore loser.
soared-sword
osoared [so3'<1] the past tense and past participle of soar 'to
sail or fly high and unencumbered. ' 0 The gull soared grace
fully with the wind.
osoared [so3'<1] the past tense and past participle of soar ' to
move upward in status or position. ' 0 The singer's hit record
soared to the top of the record charts.
osword [so3'<1] a long, sharp blade used for stabbing, cutting,
or thrusting. 0 The marine 's sash and sword are part of his
dress uniform.
sold- soled -souled

osold [sold] the past tense and past participle of sell 'to offer
something for sale; to exchange something for money. ' 0 The
store sold only sporting goods. 0 Jack sold his old lawn mower
to his neighbor.
osoled [sold] the past tense and past participle of sole ' to
equip footwear with a sole . ' 0 The cobbler soled Mary's hiking
boots twice in one season.
osouled [sold] the past participle of soul 'to equip someone
with a kind spirit. ' (This occurs only as a past participle.) 0
My aunt was always a kind-souled lady.
sole-soul
osole [sol] the bottom part of a foot or shoe. D I have a cut on
the sole ofmy foot.
osole [sol] the lower part or base of something on which
something else rests. 0 The sole of her golf club has been
damaged.
osole [sol] to furnish something with the lower part or base of
something. 0 The cobbler will sole a pair ofshoes for only eight
dollars.
osole [sol] a tasty, white-fleshed fish. 0 He couldn 't decide
whether to order the shrimp or the sole on the menu.
osole [sol] only; lone. 0 A baby girl was the sole survivor of the
auto accident. 0 The sole judge in the case found the defendant
not guilty.
osoul [sol] the spiritual part of a human being. 0 Fred felt
that his soul would live on after his death.
155
soled
• soul [sol] a person's total self. 0 Sara poured her heart and
soul into the difficult project.
• soul [sol] an essential or active part. 0 Mike was the soul
behind the business 's success.
soled See the main entry beginning with sold.
some - sum
some [s;}m] an unspecified number, amount, part, person, or
•
thing. 0 Tomorrow the company will be forced to lay off some

of its workers.
some [s;}m] noteworthy; important. 0 That was some movie!
•
some [s;}m] somewhat. 0 I was irritated some at her lack of

•
manners.
sum [s;}m] the total or whole amount; the end result of
•
adding numbers or amounts. 0 The sum of money in the cash

register is small. 0 None of the math students came up with
the correct sum.
sum [s;}m] the utmost degree; the highest point. 0 The sum
•
of all her happiness was realized on her wedding day.

sum [up] [s;}m] to summarize something. 0 Would you please
•
sum up his comments in a few words ?

son- sun
son [s;}n] a male offspring of human beings. 0 In Scotland it
•
is considered lucky to be the seventh son of a seventh son.

son [s;}n] a person closely associated with a formative body,
•
usually a town, school, or country. 0 The newly elected presi

dent is a favorite son of the state of Iowa.
sun [s;}n]
• a warmth-providing celestial body around which
the Earth and other planets revolve. 0 I remember seeing a
total eclipse of the sun once as a child.
sun [s;}n] the light or heat given off from the sun. 0 The
•
bright sun seemed to lighten our spirits.

sun [s;}n]
• something resembling the sun's brilliance. 0 The
lawyer had her moment in the sun when she won the famous
court case.
sore See the main entry beginning with soar.
soul See the main entry beginning with sole.
souled See the main entry beginning with sold.
sow See the main entry beginning with sew.
spade -spayed
spade [sped]
• a digging tool usually pushed into the ground
156
stake - steak
with either the hand or foot. 0 Using a spade in soft, sandy

soil is not difficult.
• spade [sped] a tool resembling a spade in shape or function.
o A tree spade was used to plant the large evergreen tree.
• spade [sped] a playing card having the symbol of a spade on
it. 0 Tony threw a high spade on my four to win the hand.
• spayed [sped] the past tense and past participle of spay 'to
remove the ovaries of a female animal. ' 0 After breeding her
once, we decided to have our collie spayed.
spayed See the main entry beginning with spade.
staid - stayed
• staid [sted] serious. 0 The professor 's somber expression and
staid manner made him seem unapproachable.
• stayed [sted] the past tense and past participle of stay 'to
remain in a certain status, position, or place. ' 0 The children
stayed friends during their entire lives. 0 The driver stayed in
the passing lane for miles.
•stayed [sted] the past tense and past participle of stay 'to
take up temporary residence somewhere. ' 0 We stayed with
my sister and her family while our parents were on vacation.
•stayed [sted] the past tense and past participle of stay ' [for a
judge] to issue an order preventing something from happening. '
o Thejudge stayed the execution of the man on death row.
stair-stare
•stair [st£3'-] a flight of steps leading from one level to another.
o I took the stair rather than the elevator.
•stair [st£3'-] a single step in a staircase. 0 He left his shoes on
the stair beside the door.
•stare [st£3'-] to look fIxedly, conspicuously, or searchingly at
something or someone. 0 The man taught his children not to
stare at other people. 0 The young man could not help but stare
at his beloved whenever she spoke.
stake-steak
•stake [stek] a sharp, pointed piece of wood or metal driven
into the ground as a marker or support. 0 The tent stake was
bent.
•stake [stek] the prize in a contest. 0 A stake of fifty dollars
goes to the winner of the race.
•stake [stek] something to be lost or gained. 0 If this rumor
spreads, the senator's reputation is at stake.
•stake [stek] an interest in a commercial venture. 0 He has
very little stake in the new building project.
157
stare
• stake [stek] to place stakes or mark with stakes. 0 Let's

stake out the dimensions for the new playhouse.
• stake [stek] to back someone or something financially. 0 I'll
stake you in that business venture ifyou like.
• stake [stek] to bet something. 0 The cowboys decided to
stake their favorite saddles on the horse race.
• steak [stek] a cut of meat, usually beef. 0 John likes steak
and eggs for breakfast on Sunday mornings.
stare See the main entry beginning with stair.
stationary -stationery
stationary ['steJ;}m:a'-i] not moving; unchanging in place or
•
condition. 0 The weatherman said a stationary storm front

had settled over the region.
stationery ['steJ;}nEa'-i] letter-writing materials such as ink,
•
pen, paper, and envelopes. 0 Dad went into the store to buy
some stationery items. 0 I have several pretty styles of
stationery.
stationery See the main entry beginning with stationary.
stayed See the main entry beginning with staid.
steak See the main entry beginning with stake.
steal- steel
steal [still to take something illegally. 0 The boys tried to
•
steal a car from the parking lot.

steal [still to move about in a quiet, secret manner. 0 A cat
•
burglar knows how to steal about in a home without being seen

or heard.
steal [still to gain or win something by daring, skill, or trick
•
ery. 0 The actor's dashing manner and rugged good looks were
enough to steal away the girl 's heart.
steal [stil] an act of stealing. 0 The baseball player's steal at
•
home plate won the ball game.

steal [still a bargain. 0 I really got a steal when I bought that
•
table at the garage sale.

steel [stii] commercial iron that comes from ore and is used
•
in manufacturing. 0 Large amounts of steel were once used to

make cars.
steel [stii] something made from steel or resembling steel. 0
•
Those stainless steel knives are guaranteed not to rust.

steel [still to fill someone with resolve or determination. 0
•
Police officers are taught to steel themselves against the less

pleasant aspects of theirjobs.
158
straight -strait
steel See the main entry beginning with steal.
step- steppe
step [stEp] a stair. 0 She twisted her ankle on the slippery
•
step.
step [stEp] a ladder rung. D "Go up one more step, " called
•
Janet from the bottom of the ladder.

step [stEp] a stride. 0 Mark always walks with ajaunty step.
•
step [stEp] the amount of space passed over in one step. 0

•
The runner lost the race by a single step.

step [stEp] a rank, grade, or degree in scale or quality. 0 The
•
houses in this neighborhood are a step above the others we

looked at.
step [stEp] an action taken. 0 It is necessary to take this step
•
in order to avoid further trouble.

step [stEp] to move by raising and lowering the foot over
•
some distance. 0 Please step over here.

step [stEp] to press something down with the foot. 0 Step on
•
the brake slowly and carefully.

step [stEp] to move in a spritely manner. 0 The show dogs
•
step around the ring with style.

steppe [stEp] a vast expanse of flat, treeless plain. 0 Only
•
coarse grasses grow on a steppe.
steppe See the main entry beginning with step.
stile- style
•stile [stOll] a set of steps leading up to and crossing over a
wall or fence. 0 Grandpa built a stile over the pasture fence.
•stile [stOll] a vertical piece of a frame or panel into which
other pieces are fitted. 0 The stile of the door frame is cracked.
•style [stoIi] a way to express thought in language, art, or
music. D His writing style is one of wry humor.
•style [stoIi] a mode of mannerism, behavior, or conduct. 0
The nurse's style when dealing with her patients is friendly.
•style [stoIi] a writing instrument. 0 The poet picked up his
style to write a few lines of verse.
•style [stoIi] to design or copy something from an existing
mode. D The young acting student has tried to style her work
after the famous actor.
straight -strait
•straight [stret] unwavering or direct. 0 The easiest way to
the city is straight up the main road.
•straight [stret] free from curves, angles, or bends. 0 The
159
strait
shortest distance between two points is a straight line.

• straight [stret] upright; virtuous. 0 Gene is a straight, up
standing citizen.
• straight [stret] frank; candid. 0 The mother demanded a
straight answer.
• straight [stret] marked by no deviations, usually with refer
ence to a political party. 0 Her dad always votes a straight
Republican ticket.
• straight [stret] a homestretch. 0 The stock cars were three
abreast coming into the straight.
• straight [stret] an unbroken sequence in a game resulting in
a perfect score. 0 The pool player ran the table for a straight
in the pool match.
• straight [stret] in poker, a combination of five sequential
cards. 0 Dad's straight beat my pair of kings.
• strait [stret] a narrow passage where two large bodies of
water meet. 0 The ships sailed through the strait during the
night.
• strait [stret] a perplexing or difficult situation. 0 Helen was
in a strait and didn 't know what to do.
• strait [stret] tightly or closely. 0 Her gown was very strait
fitting.
strait See the main entry beginning with straigh t.
style See the main entry beginning with stile.
succor- sucker
succor ['s;)ka--, 's;)kJr] relief or help. 0 The relief workers pro
•
vided succor to the homeless people just before winter.

succor ['s;)ka--, 's;)kJr] to go to the aid of someone. 0 It is dif
•
ficult for parents not to succor their children in times of trouble.

sucker ['s;)ka--] a device used to produce suction. 0 A type of
•
sucker was used to remove the water from the ditch.

sucker ['s;)ka--] a lollipop. 0 The corner drugstore sells every
•
flavor of sucker imaginable.

sucker ['s;)ka--] a type of freshwater fish related to the carp
•
family. 0 The boys caught a sucker yesterday afternoon.

sucker ['s;)ka--] a person that is easily fooled or cheated. 0
•
The con artist was constantly on the lookout for a sucker.

sucker ['s;)ka--] to deceive someone intentionally. 0 The older
•
boy tried to sucker the younger boy out of his lunch money.
sucker See the main entry beginning with succor.
160
symbol
suede- swayed
suede [swedl leather with a napped surface. 0 Suede is used
•
to make shoes, purses, and clothing.

suede [swedl made of leather with a napped surface. 0 You 'll
•
have to take your suede coat to the cleaners to have the stains
removed.
swayed [swedl the past tense and past participle of sway 'to
•
move rhythmically and slowly, usually from side to side.' 0

The dancers swayed to the sounds of the music.
swayed [from] [swedl the past tense and past participle of
•
sway [from] 'to divert or influence someone or something from

something. ' 0 The woman swayed her little girl 's attention
from the candy counter.
swayed [swedl the past tense and past participle of sway 'to
•
persuade someone to change an opinion.' 0 The testimony

could not have swayed thejury 's position.
suite-sweet
suite [switl a group of rooms occupied as a single unit. 0 The
•
only vacancy in the hotel was a large suite.

suite [switl the collection of personnel accompanying a dig
•
nitary or ruler on official business. 0 The king 's entire suite

traveled with him wherever he went.
suite [switl a musical composition with a number of move
•
inents, usually in the same key. 0 The audience applauded

after the orchestra played the suite of ballet music.
sweet [switl pleasing to the taste, mind, or feelings. 0 The
•
child 's sweet temperament was the opposite of her twin sister's.
sweet [switl dearest; much beloved. 0 "Marry me, my sweet, "
•
implored the suitor to his lady friend.

sweet [switl great; terrific. 0 Winning the tournament was
•
such a sweet experience.

sweet [switl having a high sugar content. 0 This fudge is so
•
sweet!
sum See the main entry beginning with some.
sun See the main entry beginning with son.
surf See the main entry beginning with serf.
swayed See the main entry beginning with suede.
sweet See the main entry beginning with suite.
sword See the main entry beginning with soared.
symbol See the main entry beginning with cymbal.
161
tacked - tact
tacked [down] [trekt] the past tense and past participle of
•
tack [down} 'to attach or fasten something down with tacks. ' 0
The workers tacked the carpet down rather than just laying it
on the floor.
tacked [together] [trekt] the past tense and past participle
•
of tack [together} 'to make or build something rapidly and

carelessly. ' 0 The old man tacked the shack together in one
afternoon.
tacked [onto] [trekt] the past tense and past participle of
•
tack [onto} 'to add something onto something in haste.' 0

Emily tacked a postscript onto the end of her letter.
tacked [trekt] the past tense and past participle of tack 'to
•
change the direction of a sailing vessel. ' 0 The racing schooner

tacked several times during the course of the race.
tacked [trekt] the past tense and past participle of tack 'to
•
follow after something in a zigzagging course. ' 0 The guided

missile tacked its target through the sky.
tact [trekt] a sense of what to do or say under given cir
•
cumstances in order to avoid offending others. 0 Joan always

handles the delicate subject of money with tact.
tacks-tax
tacks [treks] the plural of tack 'a sharp-pointed, flat-headed
•
pin. ' 0 I spilled the box of tacks all over the desktop.
tacks [treks] the plural of tack 'the direction of a sailing ship
•
in relation to the set of its sails. ' 0 The sailors continually

changed the tacks of the ship.
162
tail -tale
• tacks [up] [teeks] the present tense, third person singular of

tack [up} 'to fasten onto a surface with tacks. ' 0 Henry tacks
up notes all over his apartment to remind himself to do things.
· tacks [together] [teeks] the present tense, third person
singular of tack [together] 'to put something together hastily
and insecurely. ' 0 It seems that contractor tacks together
houses wherever he finds an empty lot.
· tacks [on] [teeks] the present tense, third person singular of
tack [on] 'to add something onto something. ' 0 Mary always
tacks on the question "Don 't you think ? " to her statements.
• tacks [teeks] the present tense, third person singular of tack
'to change direction of a sailing vessel in relation to the wind. '
o The captain tacks each time the wind changes.
• tax [teeks] a charge placed by a government body on persons
or property. 0 Most people think the amount of property tax
they pay is too high.
· tax [teeks] to levy an assessment on something. 0 The gov
ernment will tax some items more heavily in the future.
• tax [teeks] to place someone or something under heavy de
mands or conditions. 0 Such vigorous exercise might tax her
heart beyond its limits.
tact See the main entry beginning with tacked.
tail-tale
•tail [tel] an extension of the spine at the rear end of an
animal, usually covered with hair. 0 My dog has a short, stubby
tail.
·tail [tel] something resembling a tail. 0 The tail of the kite is
made from old rags.
•tail [tel] the end or final process of something. 0 We were all
glad to see the tail end of the project in sight.
·tail [tel] to follow behind or trail something or someone. 0
Streams of exhaust tail the jets through the sky.
·tail [tel] to follow someone in order to conduct surveillance.
o The detective decided to tail the suspect all night long.
•tale [tel] an untrue report or piece of gossip. 0 We could not
believe her tale.
·tale [tel] a report of facts or events. 0 Each listener was
spellbound by his tale of adventure.
•tale [tel] a story. 0 She read the tale with much expression.
·tale [tel] a lie. 0 She fooled no one with her tale of what
happened.
163
tale
tale See the main entry beginning with tail.
taper- tapir
taper ['tep3'-] a candle that is narrower at the top than at
•
the bottom. 0 A single taper burned on the altar during the

wedding ceremony.
taper ['tep3'-] a faint light. 0 A thin taper of light shone
•
through the crack in the door.

taper ['tep3'-] to make something gradually narrower at one
•
end. 0 The seamstress wants to taper the trousers at the ankles.

taper [off] ['tep3'-] to diminish gradually. 0 The holiday
•
shopping season usually starts to taper off after the first of

the year.
tapir ['tep3'-] a large, shy mammal related to the rhinoceros
•
and horse that inhabits the equatorial regions of the Far East
and the Americas. 0 The tapir is a gentle but unattractive beast.
tapir See the main entry beginning with taper.
tare- tear
(See also tear- tier. )
tare [t£3'-] a weedy plant often used as ground cover. 0 Many
•
gardeners use a tare to keep the soil from eroding.

tare [t£3'-] the calculation of the weight of a substance and its
•
container minus the weight of the container. 0 Your cost will

be figured by the tare ofthe liquid.
tear [t£3'-] a hole or flaw caused by tearing. 0 Did you know
•
this shirt has a tear in it ?

tear [t£3'-] to separate or pull something into parts. 0 We
•
need to tear this paper into long strips.

tear [t£3'-] to remove or wrench something from someone or
•
something forcibly. 0 He could not tear himself away from the

interesting novel.
tear [t£3'-] to move or act hastily or violently. 0 The speeding
•
car continued to tear down the street in a dangerous manner.

tarry - terry
tarry ['t<e3'-i, 't£3'-i] to linger or lag behind; to stay in one
•
place or location. 0 Sally liked to tarry after school to talk with

her teachers.
terry ['t£3'-i] an absorbent fabric made up of uncut loops of
•
cotton. 0 Towels made ofterry feel nice against the skin.
taught- taut
taught [1:)t] the past tense and past participle of teach 'to
•
educate or train someone or something in a particular subject;
164
team- teem
to perform schooling in general. ' D She taught school for many

years. D The owner of that store taught each of his children the
basics of sound business management.
• taut [t;)t] pulled tightly; stretched. D The taut rope suddenly
snapped. D Her face was lean and taut.
taut See the main entry beginning with taught.
tax See the main entry beginning with tacks.
tea-tee
tea [til a beverage made from steeping the leaves of various
•
plants, usually the tea plant, in hot water. D Diane likes her
tea very strong.
tea [til a plant that is known for its aromatic leaves and is
•
used to make a beverage by the same name. D The fortune

teller claims that she can read tea leaves.
tea [til a light, late afternoon refreshment usually of cookies,
•
cakes, or crackers served with tea. D Our bed and breakfast

serves tea every day between three and four o 'clock.
tea [til a reception at which light refreshments are served. D
•
The ladies attended a tea after the art show.

tee [til the areas of a golf course in which the ball is put into
•
play at each hole. D Because the golf course was crowded,

golfers were lined up at each tee to continue play.
tee [til a small peg with a flat top on which a golf ball is set to
•
begin play. D I lost my tee in the deep grass.

tee [off] [til to begin play by hitting a golf ball off a tee. D
•
It's your turn to tee off at this hole.
team-teem
team [tim] a group of individuals associated in a work or
•
sport activity. D The wrestling team traveled by bus to each

meet.
team [tim] a pair of harnessed draft animals. 0 His team of
•
Belgians won a blue ribbon at the fair.

team [up] [tim] to join together as a team . D Let 's team up
•
for the wheelbarrow race.

team [tim] performed as a team. D With some team effort,
•
this task can be quickly accomplished.

teem [tim] to overflow with something. D Their personalities
•
seem to teem with energy.

teem [tim] to be present in large quantity. D Our favorite
•
stream begins to teem with spunky rainbow trout each spring.
165
tear- tier
tear- tier
(See also tare - tear. )
tear [tl3'-] a clear, salty liquid secreted by a gland in the eye.
o
D A single tear rolled down her cheek.

tear [tl3'-] a transparent drop of liquid that resembles a tear.
o
D There was a tear of some unknown substance on the surface

of the material.
tear [tl3'-] to produce tears; to weep. D The odor of the hot
o
onions caused his eyes to tear.

tier [tl3'-] a layer or row of things arranged one above the
o
other. 0 Each tier of the wedding cake was larger than the one
above it.
tier [H3'-] to arrange something in layers or rows one above
o
the other. D Let 's tier this stack of boxes so they don 't fall over.
teas -tease
teas [tiz] the plural of tea 'a beverage made from steeping
o
the leaves of various plants, usually the tea plant, in hot water. '
D The restaurant serves several different teas.
teas [tiz] the plural of tea 'a plant that is known for its
o
aromatic leaves or buds and is used to make a beverage by the

same name. ' D The plantation grows a number of exotic teas.
teas [tiz] the plural of tea 'a light, late afternoon refreshment
o
of cookies, cakes, or crackers served with tea. ' 0 The women

tried to outdo each other at their afternoon teas.
teas [tiz] the plural of tea 'a reception at which light refresh
o
ments are served. ' D The final campaign week was filled with
countless informal teas and meetings.
tease [tiz] to poke fun at, annoy, or harass someone. D It is
o
not nice to tease people who are different from you.

tease [tiz] to tantalize someone. D Those yummy desserts are
o
enough to tease anyone 's appetite.

tease [tiz] to untangle by laying flat and carding or combing.
o
D You must tease the raw wool before spinning it.

tease [tiz] a person who pokes fun at, harasses, or annoys
o
someone. D Linda is such a tease!
tease See the main entry beginning with teas.
tee See the main entry beginning with tea.
teem See the main entry beginning with team.
tense -tents
tense [t£Ots] nervous ; anxious. D Tom is always tense before
o
an airplane /light.
166
their-there - they're
• tense [tents] taut; rigid. D My neck muscles feel tense when I

am under stress.
• tense [tents] to become taut, rigid, or nervous. D My muscles
tense when I am getting an injection.
• tense [tents] a distinction of verbs indicating time variances.
o The words shall and will indicate the future tense.
• tents [tents] the plural of tent 'a collapsible structure made of
canvas, nylon, or other material, supported by a framework
and used for shelter. ' 0 The older campers will sleep in tents
instead of in the log cabins.
• tents [tents] the present tense, third person singular of tent
'to camp out or stay in a tent . ' 0 Mike tents in the mountains
for a week each summer.
tents See the main entry beginning with tense.
tern-turn
tern [t<3'n] a small, compact bird belonging to the sea gull
•
family. 0 As each wave rolled onto the beach, the tern curiously
inspected the shoreline.
turn [t<3'n] a change of direction or course. 0 His condition
•
took a turn for the worse.

turn [t<3'n] a chance to do something. 0 "When will it be my
•
turn ? " asked the small boy.

turn [t<3'n] to rotate something or someone; to change
•
the direction or course of something or someone. 0 Turn the

chicken on the grill every ten minutes. 0 The plane will turn
at the end of the runway.
turn [t<3'n] to sour; [for food] to go bad. 0 This cider is begin
•
ning to turn.
terry See the main entry beginning with tarry.
their-there-they're
•their [6E<3'] the third person plural pronoun indicating pos
session or relationship by a group of people or things. 0 Their
new house is very beautiful. 0 The trees shed their leaves each
fall.
•there [6E<3'] a place that has been pointed out; a place some
distance from the speaker. 0 Please put the blueprints there on
the drafting table. 0 Put it there, not here.
•there [6E<3'] a word used to introduce a sentence or clause,
usually when the verb has no definite subject. D There have
been few changes since you left.
•there [6E<3'] an interjection indicating a variety of emotions.
o "There, I am finally finished with that job, " the man sighed
167
there
triumphantly. 0 "There, everything will be all right, " the boy 's
mother said comfortingly.
• they're [OEa'-] the contraction of they and are. 0 I think
they 're going to meet us at the stadium.
there See the main entry beginning with their.
they're See the main entry beginning with their.
threw- through
threw [8ru] the past tense of throw 'to cast something or
•
someone through the air. ' 0 The outfielder threw the ball
all the way to home plate. 0 The unruly horse threw its jockey
into the dirt.
threw [8ru] the past tense of throw 'to form something on a
•
potter's wheel. ' 0 The potter threw some interesting clay vases
on his wheel.
threw [8ru] the past tense of throw 'to project something. ' 0
•
The moon threw an eery light through the trees.

threw [8ru] the past tense of throw 'to make or break a con
•
nection with a power source using a lever or switch. ' 0 The

electrician threw a switch to cut off the source ofpower.
through [8ru] by means of something. 0 Through sheer will
•
power, Julie finally reached her goals.

through [8ru] in one way and out another. 0 We will have to
•
travel through the tunnel in the mountain to reach the other

side.
through [8ru] over or across something. 0 We sailed through
•
some rough seas.

through [8ru] from one point up to and including another
•
point. D That specialty shop is open Monday through Friday.

throe - throw
throe [8ro] a painful spasm . 0 With each throe of giving
•
birth, the dog whined pitifully.

throe [8ro] a difficult or painful struggle. 0 In his throe to
•
achieve stardom, the actor lost sight of his roots.

throw [8ro] to catapult something through the air. 0 How
•
far can you throw ajavelin ?

throw [8ro] to cause something to fall. 0 Throw down the
•
bat and run to first base.

throw [8ro] to form something on a potter's wheel. 0 Despite
•
my best efforts, I was unable to throw a single piece ofpottery on

the wheel.
throw [8ro] to project something. 0 Throw a little more light
•
into that dark corner.
168
thyme -time
• throw [ero] to produce something. 0 Carrie wants to breed

her mare to a horse that will throw a lot of color.
• throw [ero] to make or break a connection with a power
source using a lever or switch. 0 A switchman will throw the
switch to divert the engine from one track to another.
throne -thrown
•throne [aron] a seat or place of royalty, deity, or authority.
o Queen Elizabeth II now sits on the throne ofEngland.
• throne [eron] the person who occupies a seat of authority. 0
The final say in the matter rests with the throne.
• thrown [aron] the past participle of throw 'to cast or hurl
someone or something. ' 0 He has thrown the frisbee onto the
roof of the house. 0 The child had thrown herself on the floor
in a fit of temper.
• thrown [aron] the past participle of throw 'to form something
on a potter' s wheel. ' 0 The artist has thrown many interesting
pieces on her wheel.
• thrown [aron] the past participle of throw 'to project some
thing. ' 0 The setting sun has thrown long shadows across the
lawn.
• thrown [aron] the past participle of throw 'to produce off
spring. ' 0 That stud dog has never thrown an unusual color
pattern in any of its offspring.
• thrown [aron] the past participle of throw 'to turn an elec
trical switch; to make or break a connection with a power
source using a lever or switch. ' 0 He has accidentally thrown a
switch and cut off the power to the building.
through See the main entry beginning with threw.
throw See the main entry beginning with throe.
thrown See the main entry beginning with throne.
thyme-time
•thyme [tOlm] an aromatic garden herb that belongs to the
mint family and is used in cooking. 0 The recipe calls for one
half teaspoon of thyme.
•time [tOIm] the period during which something occurs. 0 I
never seem to have enough time to do my chores.
•time [tOIm] an appointed moment or hour when something
should happen. 0 At what time do you expect to be home ?
•time [to1m] a tempo, rhythm, or beat. 0 The drummer kept
time with the other musicians.
•time [tOIm] a geological or historical age. 0 There was a time
169
tic - tick
when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

• time [torm] an experience. 0 We had a wonderful time on our
vacation.
• time [torm] an hourly wage rate. 0 The workers will get
time-and-a-half ifthey work on the weekend.
• time [torm] to keep the time of something or someone. 0
Jody was asked to time the swimmers at the swim meet.
tic- tick
tic [tlk] a frequent, localized twitch, usually involving facial
•
muscles. 0 His awful experiences during the war left the soldier
with a nervous tic.
tick [tlk] a bloodsucking insect that is dependent upon a
•
warm-blooded host for survival and often spreads disease. 0

The common deer tick is responsible for spreading Lyme disease.
tick [tlk] a soft, rhythmic beat often associated with time
•
pieces. 0 The loud tick of the clock kept Joe awake at night.
tick [tlk] a light mark used as an indicator. 0 Put a tick next
•
to each item on the invoice.

tick [tlk] a straw, feather, or fabric-filled case used as a mat
•
tress. 0 This sleeping tick is not very comfortable.

tick [tIk] to make a ticking sound. 0 Those clocks all tick in
•
different tones.
tick See the main entry beginning with tic.
tide -tied
tide [tOld] a rising and falling of the surface of an ocean, sea,
•
or gulf, influenced by the gravitational pull of the sun and

moon. 0 Do not go swimming at high tide.
tide [tOld] something that fluctuates like the tide. 0 The tide
•
of her mood swings is unpredictable.

tied [tOld] the past tense and past participle of tie 'to make a
·
knot or bow. ' 0 The child tied his shoelaces all by himself
tied [together] [tOld] the past tense and past participle of
·
tie [together] 'to unite two or more people or things. ' 0 The
two corporations tied together to form one company.
tied [tOld] the past tense and past participle of tie ' [for two
·
teams] to have the same score in a competition.' 0 At the end

of nine innings, the score was tied twelve to twelve.
tied See the main entry beginning with tide.
tier See the main entry beginning with tear.
'til-till
'til [tIl]
• until . 0 We won 't see you again 'til much later.
170
toad -toed - towed
• till [tIl] to plow, cultivate, or sow crops. 0 It is much easier to

till soft, moist ground than hard, dry earth.
• till [tIl] a cash register or money drawer including its receipts.
o If you 're working alone in the store, do not leave the till
unattended.
• till [tIl] a mixture of rocks, sand, clay, and gravel left behind
by receding glaciers. 0 The geologists studied the till of the
river basins.
till See the main entry beginning with 'til.
timber-timbre
timber ['tlmro.] standing trees . 0 The forest fire destroyed
•
many acres of timber.

timber ['lImro.] the wood of living trees. 0 The timber on
•
that mountainside is very valuable.

timber ['lImba'-] wood material used for construction, either
•
in raw or finished form. 0 It will take a lot of timber to build

that cedar log lodge.
timber ['lImba'-] the rib of a ship. 0 A timber on that ship
•
cracked during the violent storm.

timbre ['lImba'-, 'tcembr] the tone or quality of a vocal or
•
musical sound as heard by the ear. 0 The timbre of the alto 's
voice stood out among the other choir members ' voices.
timbre See the main entry beginning with timber.
time See the main entry beginning with thyme.
to -too-two
to [tu] a preposition indicating movement toward something,
•
purpose or result of, relation in time, extent, or degree, com

parison or proportion . 0 After the soccer match we went to the
ice-cream parlor for cold drinks.
too [tu] also. 0 Besides the house, we plan to sell the car and
•
boat, too.
too [tu] an extensive degree. 0 I am too tired to stay awake
•
any longer.
two [tu] the cardinal number between one and three. 0
•
Those two houses have exactly the same floor plan. D The last
card she played was the two of hearts.
two [tu] a pair. 0 The schoolchildren lined up two by two.
•
toad-toed-towed
toad [tod] an amphibian related to the frog but darker in
•
color with dry, warty skin. 0 There is a huge toad in the flower
garden.
171
toe - tow
• toad [tod] a person or object worthy of contempt. D I don 't

understand what Alice sees in that toad, Dave.
• toed [tod] the past participle of toe 'to equip something with
toes ; to be equipped with toes. ' (This occurs only as a past
participle.) D The three-toed sloth is a homely creature. D The
workers are required to wear steel-toed shoes on the job.
• toed [tod] the past tense and past participle of toe 'to touch
or move something about with one's toe. ' D I toed the drowsy
snake until it slithered away.
• towed [tod] the past tense and past participle of tow 'to pull
something behind something or someone. ' D Heavy machinery
towed the fallen trees out of the roadway. D After the accident,
the cars were towed away by the police.
toe -tow
toe [to] one of the digits of the foot. D I dropped the heavy
•
sack on my big toe.

toe [to] the tip of a shoe. D The toe of his shoe has a hole in it.
•
toe [to] to equip something with toes. D The cobbler can toe
•
these old work boots for me.

toe [to] to operate, move, or reach something or someone
•
with a toe. D Ifyou toe my foot again, I'll kick you.

toe [to] to drive nails in at a slant. D Toe that board to the
•
one beneath it.

tow [to] to haul or pull something or someone behind some
•
thing or someone. D We 'll have to tow the truck to the repair

garage. D The baby-sitter towed the screaming child to the car.
toed See the main entry beginning with toad.
told-tolled
told [told] the past tense and past participle of tell 'to say
•
something; to utter something; to reveal something. ' D Linda

always told the truth. D She never told me the well-kept secret.
D The empty candy wrappers told the mother why her son had
no appetite for dinner. D I told my boss that I would be late for
work. D The clock on the bank told us the time.
told [on] [told] to betray someone; to tattle on someone. D
•
My older brother always told on me for sneaking cookies.

tolled [told] the past tense and past participle of toll 'to
•
sound a bell . ' D The bell in the steeple tolled midnight.

•
signal or announce something. ' D The town crier tolled the

royal betrothal.
•
172
tough- tuff
charge or collect a toll. ' D The toll collector tolled each of the
travelers a dollar to cross the bridge.
tole-toll
tole [tol] a decorative, painted metal surface of various colors
•
often found on ornamental wall hangings, curios, and boxes. D

She made many attractive gifts with her new-found ability to
tole paint.
toll [tol] a tax, fee, or levy paid for the privilege of using some
•
public facility, usually a bridge or turnpike. D Drivers must

pay a toll when entering the turnpike.
toll [tol] the cost in loss or detriment at which something is
•
gained. D His difficult life took a toll on his health.

toll [tal] to sound a bell. D The church bells toll the hour of
•
the day.
toll [tol] to signal or announce. D Trumpets and waving flags
•
toll the end of the fighting.

toll [tal] to place or take a toll. D The state will toll the use of
•
the new stretch of highway.

toll See the main entry beginning with tole .
tolled See the main entry beginning with told.

too See the main entry beginning with to.
tort -torte
tort [t;)3't] a wrongful act against which civil action may be
•
brought. D Trespass is an example of a civil tort.

torte [t;)3't] a rich, layered dessert topped with frosting. D
•
Mom always serves her famous four-layer torte at Thanksgiving

dinner.
torte See the main entry beginning with tort .
tough-tuff
tough [t�fJ strong; firm. D These old shoes are tough enough
•
to last many more years.

tough [t�fJ stubborn. D Janice has a tough manner about her.
•
tough [t�fJ capable of enduring stress, difficulty, or hardship.

•
D Thejourney will require tough adventurers.

tough [t�fJ difficult to deal with. D Bill is a tough person to
•
work for.
tough [t�fJ a rough, rowdy individual . D The boss always
•
sends his tough to do his dirty work for him.

tuff [t�fJ rock or rock deposits made of disintegrating mate
•
rial, usually volcanic in nature. D The heavy spring rains
173
tow
washed much tuff out of the mountains and into the river and
streambeds.
tow See the main entry beginning with toe.
towed See the main entry beginning with toad.
tracked - tract
tracked [tnekt] the past tense and past participle of track 'to
•
follow or trail someone or something. ' 0 Rescuers tracked the

lost hiker through the snow.
tracked [trrekt] the past tense and past participle of track 'to
•
observe the path of something, using specialized equipment. '

o Scientists tracked the path of the new comet.
tracked [trrekt] the past tense and past participle of track 'to
•
carry soil or other material on one's feet and deposit it on the

floor. ' 0 The children tracked mud all through the house.
tract [trrekt] a pamphlet containing religious or political
•
information. 0 I picked up a tract to read in the waiting room.

tract [trrekt] an area of land; a parcel of land. 0 The couple
•
purchased a small tract of land as an investment. 0 That vast

tract of land in the foothills is ideal for grazing cattle.
tract [trrekt] a system of the body whose parts collectively
•
perform some function. 0 This week the class is studying the

digestive tract.
tract See the main entry beginning with tracked.
tray-trey
tray [tre] a flat-surfaced, open receptacle, often without sides
•
or with shallow sides, used for carrying or displaying articles.

o Grandmother's silver tea service sits on a tray in the china
cabinet.
trey [tre] a card, die, or domino displaying three symbols or
•
dots. 0 His poker hand revealed two pairs and a trey.

trey See the main entry beginning with tray.
troop -troupe
troop [trup] a group of soldiers. 0 The small troop entered
•
the city after dark.

troop [trup] a collection of objects or people. 0 An interested
•
troop of listeners heard the speaker talk.

troop [trup] a flock of birds ; an assembly of mammals. 0 A
•
baboon troop is a highly organized and complex unit.

troop [trup] a unit of Girl or Boy Scouts under the direction
•
of a leader. 0 When my brothers were young, my father served
174
two
as leader of their troop.

o troop [trup] to move as a group or crowd. 0 Let 's all troop
over to the park to play ball after our cookout.
o troupe [trup] a group of stage or traveling performers. 0
That theatrical troupe has been on the road performing for a
long time.
troupe See the main entry beginning with troop.
trussed -trust
o trussed [tr;)st] the past tense and past participle of truss 'to
bind or secure someone or something tightly. ' 0 The police
found the victim trussed but otherwise unharmed. 0 After the
turkey was stuffed and trussed, I put it into the oven.
otrussed [up] [tr;)st] the past tense and past participle of
truss [up} ' to strengthen or support something with trusses. '
o We first put up the sidewalls and then trussed them up
temporarily.
otrust [tr;)st] to have confidence in someone or something. 0
Something about the way she smiled told me not to trust her.
otrust [tr;)st] an obligation or charge imposed in faith . 0 She
put trust in his ability to invest her money wisely.
otrust [tr;)st] a property interest held by one party for the
benefit of another. 0 Funds were put in a trust to help the
family whose house burned.
otrust [tr;)st] to believe in or rely on someone or something. 0
I trust that you will see to all of the details of the contract.
trust See the main entry beginning with trussed.
tuff See the main entry beginning with tough.
turn See the main entry beginning with tern.
two See the main entry beginning with to.
175
undo -undue
undo [�n'du] to open or unfasten something by releasing. D
•
I was unable to undo the padlock on the gate.

undo [�n'du] to nullify something. D He could not undo the
•
damage done to his garden by the heavy rain.

undo [�n'du] to ruin or reverse the fortunes of someone or
•
something. D The athlete tried to undo his competitor's chances

of winning.
undue [�n'dju, �n'du] unnecessary or inappropriate. D The
•
political candidate thought undue attention was being given to

his private life.
undue [�n'dju, �n'du] not due. D The bill is undue until the
•
end of the month.

undue See the main entry beginning with undo.
uninterested See the main entry beginning with disin terested.
urn See the main entry beginning with earn.
use See the main entry beginning with ewes.
176
vail-vale-veil
ovail [vel] to remove one's hat to show respect. (Archaic
English.) 0 The peasant was told to vail his hat in the presence
of the noble family.
ovale [vel] a valley; a dale. 0 From the mountaintop the little
hamlet nestled in the vale looked like a miniature village.
oveil [vel] a covering of cloth worn to conceal the face. 0
Women in some countries are required to wear a veil when in
public. 0 The bride's veil was made of white netting.
oveil [vel] a covering used to conceal or hide something. 0
A veil was used to cover the sculpture until the dedication
ceremony.
o veil [vel] to conceal something. 0 The man tried to veil his
uneasiness by laughing.
vain-vane-vein
vain [ven] conceited; self-centered. 0 The movie star is a
o
very vain person.

vain [ven] unsuccessful. 0 Her many vain attempts to pass
o
the driver's test left her unhappy.

vane [ven] a device used to determine the direction of the
o
wind. 0 The vane on the roof of the barn is pointing north.

vane [ven] the wide, flat part of a feather. 0 The vane on the
o
bird 's wing is bright red.

vane [ven] a group of feathers or a piece of plastic attached
o
to the rear of an arrow to help guide its flight. 0 One vane was
torn as the arrow bounced off a tree.
vane [ven] a blade of a windmill. 0 Only a single vane
o
remained on the rusted windmill.

vein [ven] a layer of minerals in the earth. 0 The prospector
o
177
vale
discovered a vein of silver in the earth.

o vein [ven] a blood vessel that carries blood to the heart. 0
The nurse will draw blood from a vein in your arm.
o vein [ven] the part of a leaf that gives it the appearance of
con taining lines. 0 The vein of that yellow leaf is dark purple.
o vein [ven] a line of thought. 0 The speaker continued his
discussion in a serious vein. 0 The business will continue to
operate along the same vein.
vale See the main entry beginning with vail.
vane See the main entry beginning with vain.
vary-very
o vary ['vGe3'-i, 'vE3'-i] to change something; to cause something
to deviate. 0 Each year the firm tries to vary its marketing
campaign.
o very ['vE3'-i] to a high degree. 0 Janice has been very success
ful in her new job.
o very ['vE3'-i] precise. 0 His comments struck my very con
science. 0 My aunt bought the very dress I liked.
o very ['vE3'-i] mere. 0 The very idea of eating insects sickened
him.
veil See the main entry beginning with vail.
vein See the main entry beginning with vain.
very See the main entry beginning with vary.
vial-vile
o vial [vaIl] a small, usually cylindrical container. 0 The lab
technician carefully marked and dated each vial ofpills.
o vile [VOlt] wicked. 0 That man is a vile individual.
o vile [VOlt] foul. 0 Decaying debris has a vile odor.
vice -vise
o vice [VOIS] corruption ; crime. 0 The gangster was involved in
all sorts of vice.
o vice [VOIS] a moral or physical shortcoming, imperfection, or
taint. D Her only vice is a weakness for chocolate.
o vice [VOIS] secondary; serving in the place of someone. (Part
of a title.) 0 His father was the vice-president of the poetry
society.
o vise [VOIS] a device used to hold some object in place by means
of a clamp. 0 A vise has many uses in carpentry.
vile See the main entry beginning with vial.
vise See the main entry beginning with vice.
178
wade-weighed
•wade [wed] to enter or walk about in shallow water. 0 The
children wanted to wade in the stream.
•wade [wed] to proceed or move about with labor or difficulty.
o It will take me all day to wade through this paperwork.
•wade [wed] to approach a proj ect with vigor and enthusiasm.
o Sam likes to wade right into any challenging task.
•weighed [wed] the past tense and past participle of weigh 'to
determine the weight or heaviness of someone or something. '
o As children, we were weighed at each visit to the doctor's
office.
consider something carefully. ' 0 The judge carefully weighed
all of the evidence in the case.
pull up an anchor in readiness for departure. ' 0 After a night
in port, the ship weighed anchor at dawn.
be a burden on someone or something. ' (Figurative. ) 0 Their
constant financial worries weighed heavily on their minds.
wail -wale -whale

• wail [weI] a mournful cry. 0 The forlorn wail of the coyote
was heard throughout the valley.
• wail [weI] a prolonged expression of grief, sadness, or pain .
o The wail of the mourners was terrible to hear.
• wail [weI] to utter a cry of grief or pain . 0 We heard the
woman wail from a distance.
• wale [weI] a raised rib in a piece of fabric. 0 That corduroy
179
waist -waste
fabric comes in both a wide and narrow wale.

o wale [weI] a welt, usually on the surface of the skin. 0 The
scratch by the tree branch left a long wale on his arm.
o wale [weI] the long, thick, wooden plates on the side of a
ship. 0 Each wale of the boat was handmade.
o wale [wei] to raise or mark the skin with welts. 0 "If you
don 't behave, I'll wale your behind!" threatened the upset
mother.
o whale L\'\el] a large, ocean mammal that bears and suckles
live young. D The blue whale is the earth 's largest living
creature.
o whale [Mel] a person, event, or object massive or impressive
in size or qualities. 0 "Boy, that was a whale of a concert! "
commented Todd.
o whale [Mel] to fish or hunt whales. 0 Coastal people in many
countries whale for a living.
o whale [Mel] to thrash someone. 0 The attackers continued to
whale the helpless man.
waist -waste
waist [west] the mid-section of a human torso between the
o
ribs and the hips. 0 Scarlett O 'Hara boasted the tiniest waist
in three counties.
waist [west] a short garment or part of a garment covering
o
the body from the neck to the waist; a bodice. 0 The waist of
her gown was richly detailed.
waste [west] debris; garbage. 0 All of this waste must be
o
hauled to the dump.

waste [west] scrap. 0 Collect all of the waste metal to be
o
recycled.
waste [west] a broad, barren tract of land; a vast body of
o
open water. 0 We could see nothing but the horizon across the
waste of land.
waste [west] loss of body weight, tissue, or vigor. 0 To see
o
his waste over a long period of time was very sad.

waste [west] sewage or excrement. 0 The city 's waste is
o
treated at a nearby sewage treatment plant.

waste [west] to ravage ; to devastate. 0 The war continues to
o
waste the impoverished nation.

waste [west] to cause something to diminish in size, strength,
o
or vitality. 0 We watched her enthusiasm slowly waste away.

waste [west] to consume something carelessly; to allow some
o
thing to be lost or discarded unused. D We must be careful not

to waste our precious natural resources.
180
wale
wait -weight
• wait [wet] to remain in place in expectancy. 0 Let's wait and
see what happens next.
• wait [for] [wet] to delay or postpone. 0 He decided to wait
for the rain to stop before dashing to the parking lot.
• wait [wet] to serve as a waitress or waiter. 0 Greg has de
cided to wait tables at the local pub for a summerjob.
• weight [wet] a heavy object. 0 A weight is needed to keep
this drapery hanging straight.
• weight [wet] a burden or pressure. 0 The weight of the diffi
cult decision was almost unbearable.
• weight [wet] a unit of mass or measure. 0 Alex put some
weight in the back of his car to give added traction.
• weight [wet] the relative value or importance given to some
thing. 0 The weight of this issue is very apparent to everyone
involved.
•weight [wet] to place heaviness or weight upon someone or
something. 0 Weight down those papers so they don 't blow
away.
•weight [wet] to impose a burden upon someone. 0 I didn 't
mean to weight you down with all of my troubles.
waive -wave
waive [wev] to voluntarily relinquish something or give up a
•
right to something. 0 The accused decided to waive his right to

ajury trial.
•waive [wev] to temporarily put something aside. 0 Will you
waive some ofyour course electives until next year?
•waive [wev] to refrain from prosecuting or enforcing some
thing. 0 The policy will no longer waive those restrictions.
•wave [wev] a hand motion used as a greeting, farewell, or
signal. 0 He gave a quick wave before boarding the ship.
wave [wev] a swell on the surface of a body of water. 0 A
•
huge wave washed over the bow of the boat.

wave [wev] something resembling a wave. 0 A sudden wave
•
of nausea made her dizzy.

wave [wev] an energy transmission through some medium
•
from one point to another. 0 The pictures are being trans

mitted via a complex radio wave.
wave [wev] a distinct condition of weather or temperature.
•
o An unexpected heat wave settled over the region.

•wave [wev] to float or move about in an air current. 0 I love
to see palm leaves wave about in the tropical breeze.
wale See the main entry beginning with wai1.
18 1
war-wore
war-wore
war [W:l<3'-] a state of declared, armed hostilities. 0 The war
•
lasted only a few short months.

war [W:l<3'-] a state or period of conflict or struggle. 0 Those
•
two giant beverage companies have been at war for years.

war [W:l<3'-] to engage in war, conflict, or hostility. 0 The once
•
feuding nations have agreed not to war any longer.

wore [W:l<3'-] the past tense of wear 'to dress in or adorn
•
oneself with an article of clothing. ' 0 The groom wore a dark

grey tuxedo.
wore [W:l<3'-] the past tense of wear 'to display some type of
•
appearance.' 0 Her father always wore a look of dismay on his

face.
wore [W:l<3'-] the past tense of wear [down] 'to diminish some
•
thing through persistence. ' 0 The persistent child eventually

wore down his mother's defense.
ware -wear-where
ware [WE<3'-] a manufactured commodity or article; merchan
•
dise. 0 The only ware that the company produces is transistor

radios. 0 The peddler's best-selling ware was a variety ofpots
and pans.
ware [WE<3'-] pottery of fired clay. 0 After painting the ceramic
•
ware, the artist must fire it again.

wear [WE<3'-] to dress in or adorn oneself with articles of
•
clothing. 0 Many tennis players now choose to wear bright

colored clothing.
wear [WE<3'-] to display or have an appearance of something.
•
o Wear a look of confidence at yourjob interview.

wear [WE <3'-] to diminish or deteriorate through use. 0 The
•
carpeting by the front door is beginning to wear.

where [ME<3'-] in, at, or to what place, position, or situation. D
•
"Where did you find such a deal ? " quizzed Ray.

where [ME<3'-] wherever. 0 The cats tend to wander where
•
they like.
where [ME<3'-] locale or place. 0 No one is sure of the where
•
and why of the crime.

warn-worn
warn [w:l<3'-n] to alert, notify, or counsel someone. 0 Doctors
•
must warn their patients of the side effects of medication.

warn [w:l<3'-n] to tell someone to go or leave. D The referees
•
had to warn the disruptive players off the playing field.

worn [w:l<3'-n] the past participle of wear 'to dress in or adorn
•
182
way-weigh-whey
oneself with an article of clothing. ' 0 Have you worn that hat
before ?
• worn [w:)(')'n] the past participle of wear 'to display or have
an appearance of something. ' 0 It seems he hasn 't worn a
smile in weeks.
• worn [away] [w;)3'n] the past participle of wear [away] 'to
cause something to diminish or deteriorate. ' 0 Her illness has
worn away her energy.
waste See the main entry beginning with waist.
wave See the main entry beginning with waive.
wax-whacks
wax [weeks] a substance secreted by bees that is used to make
•
their honeycombs. 0 Those candles are made from the wax of

bees.
wax [weeks] any of numerous plant or animal secretions
•
resembling a waxy substance. 0 A doctor removed the excess

wax from his patient 's ears.
wax [weeks] paraffin. 0 Use a good wax to coat the bottom of
•
your skis.
wax [weeks] to rub or treat something with wax. 0 If you
•
wax the underside of your toboggan, it will travel faster down

the hill.
wax [weeks] to grow or increase. 0 The profits ofthe company
•
tend to wax with buyer demand.

wax [weeks] the period of the lunar cycle between a new
•
moon and a full moon. D At what time this month will the
moon wax ?
whacks [Meeks] the plural of whack 'a resounding blow . ' D
•
The baby-sitter gave the naughty child three whacks with a

paddle.
whacks [Meeks] the plural of whack 'an attempt or opportu
•
nity to do something. ' (Slang. ) 0 The coach offered the second

string pitcher a couple of whacks at starting games.
whacks [Meeks] the present tense, third person singular of
•
whack 'to strike or bat at something or someone. ' 0 That

volleyball player really whacks the ball around the court.
way-weigh-whey
way [we] a course of passage or travel. 0 The homing pigeon
•
found its way back to its coop.

•way [we] a condition. 0 The way I felt led me to take a nap.
•way [we] a manner or style of doing something. 0 "That is
183
we -wee
no way to eat!" scolded the man.

o way [we] a distance. 0 It's a long way from Florida to
California.
o way [we] connected with a stage or point along a route. 0
Fresh horses are available at each way station along the trail.
o weigh [we] to determine the weight or heaviness of some
thing; to measure something on a scale. 0 We must weigh the
cargo of the truck before it goes on the road.
o weigh [we] to consider something carefully. 0 Weigh the
consequences ofyour actions before you act.
o weigh [we] to make something heavy. 0 Citizens are asked
to weigh down anything that might blow away during the
hurricane.
o weigh [we] to pull up an anchor in readiness for departure.
o The ship will weigh anchor at dawn.
o weigh [we] to have a disheartening effect on someone. 0 I
hope this sad news will not weigh heavily on you.
o whey [Me] the watery part of whole milk as separate from
the part containing the butterfat. 0 Whey is a by-product in the
cheese-making process.
we -wee
we [w i] the first person, plural pronoun. D "Let's see if we
o
can win the relay race, " Mitch urged his teammates.
wee [w i] very tiny. 0 When born, a bear cub isjust a wee thing.
o
wee [wi] miniscule. 0 Add only a wee bit of seasoning to the

o
soup.
wee [wi] very early. 0 Doctors are quite used to getting up in
o
the wee hours of the morning to handle emergencies.

weak-week
weak [wik] lacking strength, vigor, or stamina. 0 He felt
o
very weak following his long illness.

weak [wik] deficient in mental or physical capabilities. D As
o
she aged, my aunt 's eyesight grew weak.

weak [wik] not based soundly on fact or logic. D The evidence
o
supporting that theory is weak.

weak [wik] lacking required or usual ingredients. 0 This
o
coffee tastes weak and watery.

weak [wik] lame or ineffective. 0 The boy offered a weak
o
excuse for his tardiness.

weak [wik] barely sounded. 0 The kitten uttered a weak
o
meow.
week [wik] a seven-day cycle or period. 0 They will be vaca
o
tioning out East for a week in July.
184
we'd-weed
wear See the main entry beginning with ware.
weather-wether-whether
oweather ['wE('�a--] climatic or atmospheric conditions. D The
weather in Michigan is very unpredictable.
oweather ['wE('�a--] the wind. D The captain turned his vessel
into the weather.
oweather ['w£6a--] to expose something to the open air and the
elements. 0 The man wanted to weather the lumber before he
used it.
oweather ['w£6a--] to endure and come safely through some
trying experience. D Susan seems able to weather almost any
misfortune that comes her way.
owether ['w£6a--] a male sheep castrated before reaching sexual
maturity. D The sheep farmer kept the ewes but sold off each
wether.
owhether ['M£6a--] a word indicating options or alternatives.
o Whether he 'll take the job in Colorado or the one in Idaho is
unknown.
weave-we've
oweave [wiv] to interlace strands of materials. D She likes to
weave old rags into useful rugs.
oweave [wiv] to make cloth on a loom. D His mother taught
him to weave at a young age.
oweave [wiv] to spin something. D We must first weave the
raw material into yarn.
oweave [wiv] to create something by elaborately combining
elements. 0 That author is able to weave the most compelling
stories.
oweave [wiv] to move in an unsteady, zigzag fashion . D We
noticed a car weave across the divided highway.
oweave [wiv] a pattern or method for interlacing thread into
woven fabric. 0 Do you know how to weave that pattern ?
owe've [wiv] the contraction of we have. 0 We 've always
enjoyed living in a state with so many outdoor opportunities.
we'd-weed
owe'd [wid] the contraction of we had, we would, or we should.
o We 'd better leave before dark, or we 'll never find our way.
oweed [wid] a useless plant that tends to choke out areas of
desirable plant growth. 0 The weed had roots that extended
deep into the ground.
oweed [wid] any undesirable or obnoxious person or thing. 0
My uncle used to say that his brother was a weed in a family
185
wee
of roses.
• weed [wid] to clean an area of soil by pulling out undesirable
plants. 0 The best time to weed the flower bed is right after a
rain.
• weed [out] [wid] to remove someone or something not
wanted . 0 The foreman wants to weed out all of the un
productive workers.
• weed [wid] marijuana. (Slang. ) 0 The student bought a
special pipe for smoking weed.
wee See the main entry beginning with we.
weed See the main entry beginning with we'd.
week See the main entry beginning with weak.
weigh See the main entry beginning with way.
weighed See the main entry beginning with wade.
weight See the main entry beginning with wait.
weir -we're
weir [wia'-] a fencelike enclosure built in a waterway and used
•
to trap and collect fish. 0 Salmon are trapped and stripped of

their eggs at the weir.
weir [wia'-] a dam or diversion in a waterway used to stop or
•
redirect its flow or raise the water level. 0 A weir was used to
funnel the excess water away from the main arm of the river.
we're [wia'-] the contraction of we are. 0 "Do you know where
•
we 're at ? " asked Dave.

weld -welled
weld [wEld] to fasten or JOIn metal parts together using a
•
heating process in which the parts melt and run together. 0

Jerry will weld the broken pieces of axle.
weld [WEld] to join intimately or closely. 0 A formal an
•
nouncement will weld the two business ventures together.

weld [WEld] a welded joint. 0 He did not get a good weld on
•
his first attempt.

welled [up] [wdd] the past tense and past participle of well
•
[up] ' to flow up and overflow. ' 0 Water welled up in the sink
during the flood. 0 Tears of joy welled up in the bride's
father's eyes as he walked his daughter down the aisle. 0 Oil
welled up from the rigs in record amounts.
we'll-wheal-wheel
we'll [wi!] the contraction of we will or we shall. 0 I can 't
•
186
wet-whet
promise that we 'll be there, but we 'll try.

o wheal [Mil] a suddenly raised formation on the skin ; a flat
itching or burning area on the skin. 0 The bee sting left a
wheal on her face.
o wheel [Mil] a circular device made of steel, rubber, or wood
mounted on an axle and capable of turning. 0 The wheel on
the wagon is wobbly.
o wheel [Mil] something resembling a wheel. 0 The steering
wheel of that automobile contains an airbag.
o wheel [Mil] to change direction in a pivotal movement sud
denly. 0 If you suddenly stop and wheel about, you may
accidently bump into someone.
o wheel [Mil] to convey on or as if on wheels. D Wheel those
building supplies over here.
welled See the main entry beginning with weJd.
we're See the main entry beginning with weir.
were -whir
owere [wac] the past subjunctive tense of be. 0 The kittens in
the pet shop window were adorable.
owhir [Mac] to revolve, fly, or move very rapidly, creating a
whirring sound. 0 The automated turnstile doors at the store 's
entrance whir constantly.
wet -whet
owet [WEt] moist, damp. 0 His shirt was wet with sweat.
owet [WEt] containing liquid. 0 This towel is soaking wet.
owet [wet] processed using water or some other liquid. 0 Wet
drilling cement requires fewer drill bits than does dry drilling.
owet [WEt] rainy. 0 Yesterday was a wet day.
owet [WEt] permitting the manufacture and sale of alcoholic
beverages. 0 Hubbard County is one of the few wet counties in
the state.
owet [WEt] all wrong. (Slang. ) 0 Harry was all wet in his
recollection ofthe accident.
owet [WEt] to make something wet. 0 Wet down the driveway
to keep the dust from blowing around.
owet [WEt] to urinate on or in something. 0 The child got so
excited that she wet her trousers.
owhet [MEt] to sharpen something by rubbing on or with an
object. D You may whet that knife on this special stone.
owhet [MEt] to make something sharp or more acute. 0 A
glass of wine before dinner will only whet your appetite.
187
wether
wether See the main entry beginning with weather.

we've See the main entry beginning with weave.
whacks See the main entry beginning with wax.
whale See the main entry beginning with wail.
wheal See the main entry beginning with we 'l1.
wheel See the main entry beginning with we 'll.
where See the main entry beginning with ware.
whet See the main entry beginning with wet.
whether See the main entry beginning with weather.
whey See the main entry beginning with way.
which -witch
which [Mlt.\l what one or ones out of a group. 0 Which picture
•
do you prefer?
which [Mlt.\l a pronoun that introduces a clause. 0 The stolen
•
items, which were thought to be lost forever, were finally located.

which [Mlt.\l whichever. 0 You may choose which you like
•
best.
witch [Wlt.\l a woman who practices witchcraft. D The woman
•
who lived alone down by the creek was thought to be a witch.

witch [Wlt.\l to bewitch someone or something. D Don 't try to
•
witch me with your black magic.

while-wile
while [MOIl] during the time of something. 0 Annette was
•
stationed in Germany while she was in the army.

while [MOIl] at the same time as something. 0 I sat on a park
•
bench while hejogged.

while [MOIl] to pass time in a boring or leisurely manner. 0
•
The retiree likes to while away his days fishing.

wile [wall] a trick or deception. 0 Her clever wile fooled no
•
one.
wile [wall] to entice or lure someone as if by a magic spell . 0
•
The man tried to wile the woman into believing him.

whine -wine
whine [Mom] a plaintive, prolonged cry. 0 The constant
•
whine ofthe puppy upset the entire household.

whine [Mom] to cry in a forlorn or distressed way. 0 The
•
baby continued to whine after getting an injection.

whine [Mom] to complain in a manner resembling a whine.
•
188
wild -wiled
o My sister is not one to whine when things don 't go her way.
o wine [wam] a fermented, alcoholic beverage made from fruit
or plants; something that intoxicates or makes heady. 0 The
wine has a full, fruity flavor. 0 Sudden success is like wine to
the spirit.
o wine [wam] a purplish-red color. 0 The new house is deco
rated in colors of forest green and wine.
o wine [wam] to drink wine. 0 The company likes to wine and
dine its new executives.
whir See the main entry beginning with were.
whither-wither
whither [ ' MID;:"'] where. 0 "Whither thou goest . . . " is the
o
beginning of a verse from the book ofRuth in the Bible.

wither [ ' WID;:"'] to droop, dry up, or shrivel, usually from lack
o
of moisture. 0 Without rain, the crops began to wither.

wither [ ' WID;:"'] to lose vigor, stamina, or spirit. 0 The runner
o
began to wither near the end of the race.

wither [ ' WID;:"'] to stun someone or something. 0 She threw
o
me a look that would wither anyone.

whoa-woe
whoa [wo] a command given to a horse or draft animal to
o
stop or stand still . 0 Pulling back on the reins, Nathan called

"whoa " to his horse.
woe [wo] misfortune, suffering, or grief. (Also in the fixed
o
form woe is me.) 0 How could so much woe befall one person ?
o "Oh, woe is me, " lamented Candy over her misfortune.
whole See the main entry beginning with hole.

wholly See the main entry beginning with holy.
whoop See the main entry beginning with hoop.
who's-whose
who's [huz] the contraction of who is. 0 He is one of the boys
o
who 's going to the summer music festival.

whose [huz] a pronoun indicating that which belongs to
o
whom. 0 Whose watch is this ?

whose See the main entry beginning with who 's.
wild-wiled
wild [wadd] untamed; uncivilized. 0 The wild West appealed
o
to many people living in the 1800 's.

wild [wadd] growing of its own accord without help or care
o
189
wile
from humans. 0 Wild strawberries grow in the field behind

our home.
• wild [wadd] uncontrolled. 0 As they grew tired, the children
became wild.
• wild [wadd] having to do with the wilderness or wildlife. 0
The men enjoy camping in the wild.
• wild [wadd] deviating from the expected. (Slang or collo
quial.) 0 The movie had a wild ending.
• wiled [out of] [wadd] the past tense and past participle of
wile [out of} 'to trick or deceive someone into giving something
up. ' 0 The con artists wiled the old man out of his life savings.
• wiled [into] [wad] the past tense and past participle of wile
[into} 'to entice or lure someone into doing something. ' 0 She
wiled her husband into buying her a mink stole.
wile See the main entry beginning with while.
wiled See the main entry beginning with wild.
will See the main entry beginning with shall.
wine See the main entry beginning with whine.
witch See the main entry beginning with which.
wither See the main entry beginning with whither.
woe See the main entry beginning with whoa.
won See the main entry beginning with one.
wood-would
wood [wud] the hard, fibrous interior of a tree or shrub lying
•
beneath the bark. 0 The wood of the cherry tree is reddish in

color.
wood [wud] timber. 0 How much wood does it take to build
•
a log home ?
wood [wud] a stand of trees. 0 The deer disappeared into the
•
wood.
wood [wud] something made out of wood. 0 The wood box
•
was carved and painted by a skilled carpenter.

would [wud] a word indicating desire, preference, or in
•
tent. 0 The druggist said he would be happy to deliver your

prescription.
would [wud] could or should. 0 A leather pouch would actu
•
ally hold liquids quite well.

wore See the main entry beginning with war.
190
wry
worn See the main entry beginning with warn.

would See the main entry beginning with wood.
wrack See the main entry beginning with rack.
wrap See the main entry beginning with rap.
wrapped See the main entry beginning with rapped.
wrest See the main entry beginning with rest.
wretch See the main entry beginning with retch.
wright See the main entry beginning with right.
wring See the main entry beginning with ring.
write See the main entry beginning with righ t.
wrote See the main entry beginning with rate.
wrung See the main entry beginning with rung.
wry See the main entry beginning with rye.
191
yew See the main entry beginning with ewe.

yews See the main entry beginning with ewes.
yoke -yolk
yoke Uok] a wooden frame worn over the necks of work
o
animals. 0 The team of oxen were joined by a yoke.

yoke Uok] a pair of yoked draft animals. 0 The yoke of mules
o
was greatly admired by the farmers.

yoke Uok] some oppressive or restrictive bond, duty, or
o
agency. 0 His impending court appearance was a yoke he

did not look forward to.
yoke Uok] a shaped and fitted piece of fabric that is part of
o
the shoulders of a garment; the top portion of a skirt. 0 The

dress had a smocked yoke.
yoke Uok] to harness something with a yoke. 0 When you
o
yoke the horses, be sure not to tangle the reins.

yolk Uok] the mass of yellow inside an egg. 0 I cracked open
o
an egg that had a double yolk.

yolk See the main entry beginning with yoke.
yore -your-you're
yore U;)a'-] days past or distant times. 0 In days of yore,
o
knights in shining armor rescued princesses from castle towers.

your U Ua'-, j;)a'-] the possessive pronoun showing a relationship
o
to you, yourself, or yourselves. 0 Your helpfulness has been

greatly appreciated.
your U Ua'-, j;)a'-] relating to oneself. 0 The party store is on
o
your left as you enter the plaza.
192
yule
• you're UU3'-, j;)3'-] the contraction of you are. 0 If you 're

hungry, there are some snacks in the refrigerator.
you See the main entry beginning with ewe.
you'll -yule
• you'll Uul, ju;)l] the contraction of you will or you shall. 0
Hurry up or you 'll be late for your appointment.
• yule Uul] Christmastime. 0 The yule season is a time for joy,
celebration, and happiness.
your See the main entry beginning with yore.
you're See the main entry beginning with yore.
yule See the main entry beginning with you 'll.
193
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With Complete Examples of Correct Usage

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© 1995 National Textbook Company, a division of NTC Pubiisiung Group,

have subtle differences in definition.

the correct spelling or meaning of a word for any given situation.

The dictionary consists of word groups arranged alphabetically by

nally as well. For example, aisle-I'll-isle is the full entry preceding

all-awl . Cross-referencing permits the user to locate every word

quickly and easily. Each word is followed by a pronunciation key in

brackets, a concise definition, and a sentence example demonstrating

how to use them in the written or spoken language.

This dictionary is designed to help speakers and writers master

Each word in the dictionary is followed by a phonetic transcription

{ stop { bird { bring { food

{ sat { feel { coat { put

{ cow { get { spoil { save

{ bite { hat { caught { well

{ beet { feet { tip { wheel

{ dead { bit { rat { fuzzy

{ that { yellow { sun { pleasure

{ jail { can { fish { 'water

{ date { lawn { top

{ get { family { cheese

{ but { new { thin

add See the main entry beginning with ad.

adherents See the main entry beginning with adherence.

adze See the main entry beginning with adds.

aide See the main entry beginning with aid.

all ready- already

difficult decision, try to consider all aspects of the problem.

ante - anti - auntie

aloud See the main entry beginning with allowed.

already See the main entry beginning with all ready.

alter See the main entry beginning with altar.

altogether See the main entry beginning with all together.

always See the main entry beginning with all ways.

anti See the main entry beginning with an te.

any more - anymore

anymore See the main entry beginning with any more.

apprise See the main entry beginning with appraise.

ark See the main entry beginning with arc.

assent See the main entry beginning with ascent.

assistants See the main entry beginning with assistance.

[up] 'to form something tightlyandbound

bailer twine balled up inside thejammed machinery.

gray bark. a type of hardwood tree characterized by smooth

to beat its arch rival.

beech See the main entry beginning with beach.

beet See the main entry beginning with beat.

when struck.a hollowKathleen

family. 0 The hunters captured a wild boar in the woods.

ticularly in New York City, which has five boroughs.) Mr. 0

O 'Leary was once a police officer in the borough of Queens in

boulder See the main entry beginning with bolder.

bowl See the main entry beginning with boll.

bowled See the main entry beginning with bold.

brayed See the main entry beginning with braid.

or something. (Colloquial for break . Considered slang or non

usually by a payment of money. D I want to buy a new com

o coarse [b<3's] of poor quality. 0 The cabin 's coarse furnish