698 English words
Common English nouns
The most useful English nouns, the words for people, things, places and ideas, with meanings, plurals and example sentences.
Words
A
- abilitynounB1the power or skill to do somethingShe has the ability to explain hard ideas simply.
- accordnounC1a formal agreement between countries or groupsThe two nations signed a peace accord in Geneva.
- accountnounB1an arrangement with a bank to keep your money thereI opened a savings account last year.
- actnounA2a single thing that someone doesReturning the wallet was an act of kindness.
- actionnounA2the process of doing something to achieve a goal or deal with a problemWe need to take action before it’s too late.
- activitynounA2something you do for fun or for a purposeThe camp offers activities like swimming and hiking.
- addressnounA1the details of where a person lives or where a building isPlease write your address on the form.
- administrationnounB2the work of organizing and running a business, school or other organizationShe works in hospital administration.
- adultnounA2a person or animal that is fully grownTickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children.
- advocatenounC1a person who publicly supports a cause or speaks for othersShe is a strong advocate of free education.
- agenounA1the number of years someone has lived or something has existedShe started piano at the age of six.
- agencynounB2a business that provides a service for other people or companiesWe booked the trip through a travel agency.
- agentnounB1a person whose job is to act or do business for someone elseHer agent found her a role in a new film.
- agreementnounB1an arrangement or promise between people, groups or countriesThe two companies signed an agreement.
- aidenounC1a person who helps someone important, especially a politician, in their workA senior aide to the president resigned yesterday.
- airnounA1the gases around the earth that we breatheLet’s open the window and get some fresh air.
- AmericannounA1a person from the United StatesMany Americans travel abroad in the summer.
- amountnounB1how much there is of somethingA small amount of sugar is fine.
- analysisnounB2the careful study of something to understand it or explain itTheir analysis of the data showed a clear trend.
- animalnounA1a living creature that can move and feel, such as a dog or birdLions are wild animals.
- answernounA1something you say or write when someone asks a questionI don’t know the answer.
- appealnounB2a serious public request for money, help or informationPolice issued an appeal for witnesses.
- approachnounB2a way of dealing with somethingWe need a new approach to the problem.
- areanounA1a part of a place, town or countryThey live in a quiet area of the city.
- armnounA1one of the two long body parts between your shoulder and your handShe broke her arm skiing.
- artnounA1paintings, drawings and sculptures, or the activity of making themWe spent the afternoon at an art museum.
- articlenounA2a piece of writing in a newspaper, magazine or websiteI read an interesting article about sleep.
- artistnounA2a person who paints, draws or makes other artThe artist painted the mural in a week.
- assentnounC2official agreement or approvalThe plan cannot go ahead without the board’s assent.
- attacknounB1a violent act meant to hurt or damageThe attack happened late at night.
- attentionnounA2careful thought, listening or lookingPlease pay attention to the instructions.
- attitudenounB1the way you think and feel about something, shown in how you behaveHe has a very positive attitude toward work.
- attorneynounB2a lawyer, especially one who speaks for someone in courtYou should talk to an attorney before you sign.
- attributenounC1a quality or feature that someone or something hasPatience is an important attribute for a teacher.
- audiencenounA2the people watching or listening to a show, speech or filmThe audience clapped for five minutes.
- authornounA2a person who writes a book, article or reportWho is the author of this novel?
- authoritynounB2the power to give orders or make decisionsOnly the manager has the authority to approve refunds.
- avaricenounC2an extreme desire for money or wealthThe bankers’ avarice helped cause the crisis.
- aversionnounC1a strong dislike of somethingShe has an aversion to crowds.
B
- babynounA1a very young child or animalThe baby is sleeping.
- backnounA1the part of your body between your neck and your bottomMy back hurts from sitting all day.
- bagnounA1a container made of cloth, paper, plastic or leather for carrying thingsPut the groceries in this bag.
- ballnounA1a round object that you throw, kick or hit in gamesThe kids kicked the ball around the yard.
- banknounA1a business that keeps and lends moneyI need to go to the bank to pay this check.
- barnounA2a place where people buy and drink alcoholWe met at a bar downtown.
- basenounB1the bottom part of somethingThe vase has a wide base.
- beatnounB1a regular sound or rhythm, as in music or a heartI love the beat of this song.
- bednounA1a piece of furniture for sleeping onI usually go to bed at eleven.
- behaviornounB1the way a person or animal actsThe teacher praised the children’s good behavior.
- benefitnounB1a good result or advantage that you get from somethingRegular exercise has many health benefits.
- bentnounC1a natural talent or interestHe has an artistic bent.
- bestnounA1the greatest effort or the highest standardJust do your best.
- billnounA2a statement of how much you must pay for somethingDid you pay the electricity bill?
- bitnounA1a small piece or amount of somethingCan I have a bit of your cake?
- bloodnounA2the red liquid that flows around your bodyThe nurse took a sample of my blood.
- boardnounA2a flat piece of wood or other material used for a purposeThe teacher wrote the answer on the board.
- bodynounA1the whole physical form of a person or animalExercise keeps your body healthy.
- boltnounC1a metal bar that slides across to lock a door or windowShe slid the bolt across the door.
- booknounA1a set of printed pages fixed together inside a coverI’m reading a great book about Japan.
- boxnounA1a container with flat sides and often a lidPut the books in a box.
- boynounA1a male child or young manTwo boys were playing soccer in the street.
- breaknounA1a short rest from work or studyLet’s take a ten-minute break.
- brooknounC2a small streamWe crossed a little brook in the woods.
- brothernounA1a boy or man with the same parents as youMy older brother lives in Denver.
- budgetnounB1the amount of money you have or plan to spendWe have a budget of $500 for the trip.
- buildingnounA1a structure with walls and a roof, such as a house or officeOur office is on the top floor of that building.
- businessnounA1the activity of buying, selling or making things for moneyShe works in the fashion business.
C
- callnounA1an act of phoning someoneI got a call from my bank.
- cameranounA1a device for taking photos or making videosMy phone has a great camera.
- campaignnounB1a planned set of activities to achieve a goal, such as winning an electionThe campaign raised money for clean water.
- cannounA1a closed metal container for food or drinkHe opened a can of beans for lunch.
- cancernounB1a serious disease in which cells in the body grow in an uncontrolled waySmoking greatly raises the risk of lung cancer.
- candidatenounB1a person who is trying to be chosen for a job or elected to a positionThree candidates applied for the manager’s job.
- canonnounC2a group of works generally accepted as the most important in a fieldThe novel is now part of the literary canon.
- capitalnounA2the city where a country’s or state’s government is basedTokyo is the capital of Japan.
- capricenounC2a sudden change of mind or behavior that has no good reasonThe staff were tired of the manager’s caprices.
- carnounA1a road vehicle with an engine and four wheels that carries a small number of peopleWe drove to the beach in my dad’s car.
- cardnounA1a piece of stiff paper with a picture and message, sent for birthdays or holidaysShe sent me a birthday card from Spain.
- cardinalnounC2a senior priest in the Roman Catholic ChurchThe cardinals met in Rome to elect a new pope.
- carenounA2the work of looking after someone or somethingThe baby needs constant care.
- careernounB1the series of jobs a person does over their working life, usually in one areaHe began his career as a teacher.
- casenounA2a particular situation or example of somethingIn some cases, the medicine causes headaches.
- causenounB1the person or thing that makes something happenPolice are still looking for the cause of the fire.
- cellnounB1the smallest living part of a plant or animalRed blood cells carry oxygen around the body.
- centernounA1the middle point or part of somethingThere’s a fountain in the center of the square.
- centurynounA2a period of one hundred yearsThe church was built in the 15th century.
- chairnounA1a seat for one person, with a back and usually four legsPlease pull up a chair and join us.
- challengenounB1something new and difficult that tests your skill or strengthLearning a new language is a real challenge.
- chambernounC1a large room used for formal meetings, or a group that meets thereThe Senate chamber was full for the vote.
- chancenounA2the possibility that something will happenThere’s a good chance it will snow tonight.
- changenounA1the act or result of something becoming differentWe need to make some changes to the plan.
- characternounA2a person in a book, film or playThe main character is a young detective.
- chargenounB1the amount of money you have to pay for somethingDelivery is free of charge.
- checknounA1a look to see if something is correct or safeThe mechanic did a quick check of the brakes.
- childnounA1a young person who is not yet an adultThe museum is free for children under 12.
- choicenounA2the act of choosing between two or more thingsYou have to make a choice between the two jobs.
- churchnounA1a building where Christians go to pray and worshipThere’s an old stone church in the village.
- circumstancesnounB2the facts or conditions that affect a situation or eventUnder the circumstances, we had no choice but to cancel.
- citizennounB1a person who legally belongs to a country and has rights thereShe became a US citizen last year.
- citynounA1a large and important townNew York is the biggest city in the US.
- claimnounB1a statement that something is true, or a request for money you are owedShe made an insurance claim after the accident.
- classnounA1a group of students who are taught together, or a lessonI have a math class at nine.
- coachnounA2a person who trains a sports team or helps someone improve a skillOur coach makes us run every morning.
- coastnounB1the land next to the seaWe drove along the coast for three days.
- coldnounA1a common illness that makes you sneeze and gives you a sore throatI can’t come today; I have a bad cold.
- collectionnounA2a group of similar things that someone has gathered, often as a hobbyHe has a huge collection of old coins.
- collegenounA1a place for study after high school, often meaning university in the USMy sister is in her second year of college.
- colornounA1red, blue, green and so on; the way something looks in lightWhat color is your new car?
- commercialnounB1an advertisement on TV or radioI hate the commercials during the game.
- commissionnounC1an official group given the job of investigating or controlling somethingA commission was set up to investigate the accident.
- communitynounB1the people who live in one areaThe new park is good for the whole community.
- companynounA1a business that makes or sells goods or servicesShe works for a software company.
- computernounA1an electronic machine that stores information and runs programsI spend all day working on a computer.
- conceitnounC2too much pride in yourself and your abilitiesHis conceit made him hard to work with.
- conceptnounB2a general idea or principle about what something is or how it worksThe concept of time is hard to explain to young children.
- concernnounB1a feeling of worry, or something that worries youSafety is our main concern.
- conditionnounB1the state that something or someone is inThe car is old but in good condition.
- conductnounB2the way a person behaves, especially in public or at workThe player was fined for unprofessional conduct.
- conferencenounB1a large formal meeting where people discuss a subject, often over several daysShe spoke at a conference on climate change.
- CongressnounB2the group of elected people who make laws in the USCongress passed the new law last week.
- constantnounB2something that never changes, especially a number in science or mathThe speed of light is a physical constant.
- consumernounB1a person who buys goods or services for their own useConsumers are spending less on clothes.
- contemptnounC1a strong feeling that someone or something is worthless and deserves no respectHe looked at the offer with contempt.
- contractnounB2a formal written agreement that can be enforced by lawRead the contract carefully before you sign it.
- controlnounA2the power to decide what someone or something doesThe driver lost control of the car.
- conventionnounC1a large formal meeting of people from a profession or groupThousands attended the annual comic book convention.
- costnounA1the amount of money needed to buy or do somethingThe cost of living keeps rising.
- countrynounA1an area of land with its own governmentCanada is a very large country.
- couplenounA2two people who are married or in a romantic relationshipA young couple moved in next door.
- coursenounA1a set of lessons or classes on a subjectI’m taking a cooking course this summer.
- courtnounB1the place where a judge decides legal cases, or the judge and officials themselvesThe case will go to court in June.
- covernounA2the outside part of a book or magazine, or something placed over a thingThere’s a photo of her on the cover of the magazine.
- crewnounB2all the people who work on a ship, plane or trainThe pilot and crew welcomed passengers on board.
- crimenounA2an action that is against the lawStealing a car is a serious crime.
- culturenounA2the way of life, customs and beliefs of a group of peopleI love learning about Japanese culture.
- cupnounA1a small container with a handle, used for drinking hot drinksWould you like a cup of coffee?
- currentnounB1a flow of water, air or electricity in one directionThe current was too strong to swim against.
- customernounA2a person or business that buys things from a shop or companyThe store gives free coffee to its customers.
- cutnounA1a small wound on the skin made by something sharpHe has a cut on his finger.
D
- darknounA1the lack of light, especially at nightMy little brother is afraid of the dark.
- datanounB1facts or information, especially numbers, used to study or decide somethingThe data shows that sales are rising.
- daughternounA1a person’s female childTheir daughter just started kindergarten.
- daynounA1a period of 24 hoursThere are seven days in a week.
- dealnounB1an agreement, especially in businessThe two companies signed a deal yesterday.
- deathnounA2the end of someone’s lifeHis death was a shock to everyone.
- debatenounB1a discussion in which people give different opinions on a subjectThere is a lot of debate about the new tax.
- decadenounB1a period of ten yearsPrices have doubled over the last decade.
- decisionnounA2a choice you make after thinking about itMoving abroad was a big decision.
- decorumnounC2polite, correct behavior that is suitable for a formal situationThe meeting was conducted with great decorum.
- decreenounC1an official order given by a ruler or government that has the force of lawThe president issued a decree closing the borders.
- defensenounB1the act of protecting someone or something from attackThe country spends a lot on defense.
- deferencenounC2polite respect shown to someone, often by accepting their opinion or wishesHe spoke to the old professor with great deference.
- degreenounA2a unit for measuring temperature or anglesIt’s 30 degrees outside today.
- delicacynounC1a rare or expensive food that is considered specialSnails are a delicacy in France.
- DemocratnounB2a member or supporter of the Democratic Party in the USBoth Democrats and Republicans supported the plan.
- designnounA2the way something is planned and made, or a drawing that shows thisI love the design of their new phone.
- despairnounC1a feeling of having lost all hopeIn despair, he gave up looking for work.
- detailnounA2a small fact or piece of information about somethingPlease send me the details of the trip.
- developmentnounB1the process of growing, changing or becoming more advancedSleep is important for a child’s development.
- devicenounB1a machine or tool made for a particular purposePlease turn off all electronic devices.
- differencenounA1the way in which two things are not the sameWhat’s the difference between a frog and a toad?
- dinnernounA1the main meal of the day, usually eaten in the eveningWhat are we having for dinner?
- directionnounA2the way someone or something is moving or facingWe walked in the direction of the river.
- directornounA2a person who manages a company or organizationShe is the sales director at a large firm.
- discussionnounA2a conversation about something, often a serious oneWe had a long discussion about our plans.
- diseasenounB1an illness of people, animals or plantsHeart disease is common in older people.
- dispatchnounC1a message or report sent quickly, especially by a journalist or officialShe filed a dispatch from the war zone.
- dispositionnounC2a person’s natural character or usual moodShe has a cheerful disposition.
- distinctionnounC1a clear difference between two similar thingsChildren must learn the distinction between right and wrong.
- doctornounA1a person trained to treat sick or injured peopleYou should see a doctor about that cough.
- dognounA1an animal with four legs and a tail, often kept as a petI walk my dog every morning.
- doornounA1a flat moving part that opens and closes the entrance to a room, building or vehiclePlease shut the door behind you.
- dreamnounA2pictures and events you see in your mind while you sleepI had a strange dream last night.
- drivenounA1a trip in a carIt’s a two-hour drive to the coast.
- dropnounA2a very small amount of liquidA few drops of rain fell on my face.
- drugnounB1a medicine used to treat an illnessThe new drug helps patients with asthma.
E
- eastnounA1the direction where the sun risesThe wind is coming from the east.
- ebbnounC2the movement of the tide away from the shoreBoats are stuck in the harbor at the ebb.
- economynounB1the system of trade, industry and money in a country or regionTourism is important to the local economy.
- edgenounB1the outer line or end part of a surface, area or objectDon’t put your glass so close to the edge of the table.
- edictnounC2an official order given by someone in authorityThe emperor issued an edict banning the religion.
- edificenounC2a large, impressive buildingThe cathedral is the oldest edifice in the city.
- educationnounA2the process of teaching and learning, especially in schools and collegesEducation is free for children in many countries.
- effectnounB1a change or result that something causesThe new law had a big effect on small businesses.
- effortnounB1the physical or mental energy you use to do somethingLearning a language takes a lot of time and effort.
- electionnounB1a time when people vote to choose someone for an official positionWho do you think will win the next election?
- employeenounB1a person who is paid to work for a company or another personThe company has more than 500 employees.
- endnounA1the last part of a period of time, event, story or objectWe’re moving at the end of the month.
- energynounA2the strength and ability to be active without getting tiredKids seem to have endless energy.
- environmentnounB1the natural world of land, air, water, plants and animalsPlastic waste is harming the environment.
- esteemnounC1respect and admiration for someoneShe is held in high esteem by her colleagues.
- eveningnounA1the part of the day between the afternoon and nightWe usually go for a walk in the evening.
- eventnounA2something that happens, especially something important or unusualThe fall of the Berlin Wall was a major historical event.
- evidencenounB1facts, signs or objects that show something is trueThere is strong evidence that exercise improves mood.
- examplenounA1one thing that shows what a group or idea is likeCan you give me an example of a healthy breakfast?
- executivenounB2a person with an important job managing a company or organizationShe is a senior executive at a tech company.
- exertionnounC2great physical or mental effortHis face was red from the exertion of climbing the stairs.
- experiencenounA2knowledge or skill you get from doing something for a long timeDo you have any experience working with children?
- expertnounB1a person with special knowledge or skill in a subjectWe asked a computer expert to fix the problem.
- exploitnounC1a brave, exciting or unusual actHe loved telling stories about his exploits at sea.
- eyenounA1one of the two body parts in your face that you see withShe has beautiful green eyes.
F
- facenounA1the front of your head, where your eyes, nose and mouth areShe had a big smile on her face.
- factnounA2something that is known to be trueIt’s a fact that water boils at 100°C.
- factionnounC2a small group within a larger one, which disagrees with the restRival factions fought for control of the party.
- factornounB2one of the things that cause or influence a resultPrice is an important factor when choosing a phone.
- fallnounA1the season between summer and winter (US English)The leaves turn red and yellow in the fall.
- familynounA1a group of people who are related, especially parents and their childrenI spend every Sunday with my family.
- fancynounB1a sudden liking or wish, often not seriousHe took a fancy to painting after he retired.
- farenounB2the money you pay to travel on a bus, train, plane or taxiThe bus fare went up again this year.
- fathernounA1a male parentMy father taught me how to ride a bike.
- fathomnounC2a unit for measuring the depth of water, about 1.8 metersThe ship sank in twenty fathoms of water.
- fearnounB1the bad feeling you have when you think something dangerous may happenShe has a fear of flying.
- feelingnounA2an emotion, like happiness or angerIt’s hard to describe my feelings right now.
- fieldnounA2an area of land used for growing crops or keeping animalsCows were eating grass in the field.
- figurenounB1a number, especially an official oneSales figures for this year look good.
- filmnounA1a story shown with moving pictures, usually in a theater or on TVHave you seen any good films lately?
- finalnounA2the last and most important game in a competitionBrazil reached the World Cup final.
- finenounA1money you must pay as a punishment for breaking a ruleHe got a $50 fine for parking there.
- fingernounA1one of the five long parts at the end of your handShe wears a ring on her little finger.
- finishnounA1the end of a race or activityIt was a close race from start to finish.
- firenounA1the flames, heat and light made when something burnsThe fire destroyed three houses.
- firmnounB1a company or business, especially one that offers a serviceShe works for a law firm in Chicago.
- fishnounA1an animal that lives in water and breathes through gillsWe saw lots of colorful fish while snorkeling.
- flagnounB1a piece of cloth with a colored design that represents a country or groupThe national flag was flying over the building.
- floornounA1the flat surface of a room that you walk onThe kids were sitting on the floor.
- flourishnounC1a dramatic movement or detail that attracts attentionHe signed his name with a flourish.
- flynounA1a small insect with two wingsThere’s a fly in my soup!
- focusnounB1the main thing that people pay attention toThe focus of the meeting was the new budget.
- foilnounC1metal made into very thin sheets, used for wrapping foodCover the dish with foil and bake for an hour.
- foodnounA1things that people and animals eatWe need to buy some food for the weekend.
- footnounA1the part of your body at the end of your leg that you stand onMy feet hurt after the long walk.
- forcenounB1physical strength or violenceThe police had to use force to open the door.
- formnounA2a type or kind of somethingWalking is a great form of exercise.
- fortitudenounC2courage and strength of mind when facing pain or difficulty over a long timeShe showed great fortitude during her long illness.
- fraynounC1a fight, argument or competitive situationTwo new candidates have entered the fray.
- friendnounA1a person you know well and like, who is not a family memberShe’s been my best friend since high school.
- frontnounA1the part of something that faces forward or is seen firstWrite your name on the front of the envelope.
- frontiernounC1the border between two countriesTroops were sent to guard the frontier.
- fundnounB2an amount of money saved or collected for a purposeThe school set up a fund to repair the gym.
- futurenounA1the time that will come after nowNobody knows what the future will bring.
G
- galenounC1a very strong windThe ship was caught in a gale.
- gamenounA1an activity or sport with rules that people play for fun or to winDo you want to play a board game?
- gardennounA1an area of land where flowers, fruit or vegetables are grownWe grow tomatoes in our garden.
- gasnounA2a substance like air that is not solid or liquidOxygen is a gas.
- generalnounA2an officer of very high rank in the armyThe general led his troops into battle.
- generationnounB1all the people born and living at about the same timeYounger generations use their phones for almost everything.
- gentrynounC2people of a high social class, especially landowners just below the nobilityThe house was built for a member of the local gentry.
- girlnounA1a female childThere are ten girls and twelve boys in the class.
- glassnounA1a hard clear material used for windows and bottlesThe table has a glass top.
- goalnounA2something you hope or plan to achieveMy goal is to run a marathon next year.
- governmentnounA2the group of people who officially control a country or areaThe government plans to build more schools.
- grantnounB2money given by a government or organization for a particular purposeShe received a grant to study abroad.
- gravitynounB2the force that pulls objects toward the earth or other large bodiesGravity keeps the moon in orbit around the earth.
- greennounA1the color of grass or leavesGreen is my favorite color.
- groundnounA2the surface of the earth that you stand onThe ground was wet after the rain.
- groupnounA1a number of people or things that are together or connectedA group of students waited outside.
- grovenounC1a small group of trees, often fruit trees planted in rowsThey walked through an olive grove.
- growthnounB1an increase in size, amount or importanceThe city has seen rapid population growth.
- guessnounA2an answer or opinion that you are not sure is correctIf you don’t know, just make a guess.
- gunnounB1a weapon that shoots bulletsThe police officer was carrying a gun.
- guynounA2a man (informal)He seems like a really nice guy.
H
- hairnounA1the soft threads that grow on your headShe has long, curly hair.
- halfnounA1one of two equal parts of somethingCut the apple in half.
- handnounA1the part of your body at the end of your arm with fingers and a thumbWash your hands before dinner.
- headnounA1the top part of your body, with your eyes, mouth and brainShe hit her head on the door.
- healthnounA2the condition of your body and mindSmoking is bad for your health.
- heartnounA1the organ in your chest that pumps blood around your bodyExercise keeps your heart strong.
- heatnounA2the quality of being hot, or hot weatherI can’t sleep in this heat.
- heednounC2attention, used in “take heed” or “pay heed”Pay no heed to the rumors.
- helpnounA1support or assistance given to someoneThanks for your help with the move.
- historynounA2the study of events that happened in the pastShe is studying European history at college.
- hitnounA2a very popular song, movie or productHer new song was a huge hit.
- homenounA1the place where you live, especially with your familyTheir home is near the river.
- hopenounA2the feeling that something good may happenThe doctors still have hope that he will recover.
- hordenounC1a very large crowd of people, often noisy or hard to controlHordes of tourists filled the square.
- hospitalnounA1a building where sick or injured people get medical careShe spent three days in the hospital after the accident.
- hotelnounA1a building where people pay to sleep and eat when travelingWe stayed at a small hotel near the beach.
- hournounA1a period of sixty minutesThe flight takes about three hours.
- housenounA1a building where people live, usually one familyThey bought a house with a big garden.
- humannounA2a personDogs can hear sounds that humans cannot.
- husbandnounA1the man someone is married toHer husband works as a nurse.
I
- ideanounA1a thought or plan about what to doGoing to the beach was a great idea.
- imagenounB1a picture, photo or shape seen on a screen or in a mirrorThe camera takes sharp images even at night.
- impactnounB2a strong effect that something has on a person or situationSocial media has a big impact on young people.
- increasenounA2a rise in amount, number or sizeThere has been an increase in prices.
- indicationnounB2a sign that shows something is true or is likely to happenThere is every indication that prices will rise.
- individualnounB1one person, considered separately from a groupEvery individual has the right to vote.
- industrynounB1the making of goods in factoriesThe town grew quickly when industry arrived.
- informationnounA1facts or details about someone or somethingFor more information, visit our website.
- insidenounA1the inner part of somethingThe inside of the house was freshly painted.
- instancenounB2a particular example or single case of somethingThere have been several instances of cheating this term.
- institutenounC1an organization for research, education or a particular professionHe works at a cancer research institute.
- institutionnounB2a large, important organization such as a university, bank or hospitalShe works for a financial institution in New York.
- insurgentnounC2a person fighting against the government or army of their own countryInsurgents attacked a military base.
- interestnounA2the feeling of wanting to know more about somethingHe has a strong interest in history.
- interviewnounA2a formal meeting where someone is asked questions, for example for a jobI have a job interview on Friday.
- intriguenounC1the making of secret plans to harm someone or gain powerThe novel is full of political intrigue.
- investmentnounB1putting money into something to make a profitBuying a house can be a good investment.
- issuenounB1an important subject or problem that people discussClimate change is a global issue.
- itemnounA2a single thing in a list, group or setThe store sells over 500 items.
J
K
- keynounA1a small metal object used to open a lockI can’t find my car keys.
- kidnounA2a child or young person (informal)The kids are playing in the yard.
- kindnounA1a type or sort of person or thingWhat kind of music do you like?
- kitchennounA1the room where food is cookedWe usually eat breakfast in the kitchen.
- knightnounB2in the past, a soldier of high rank who fought on horseback for a kingThe knight rode out to defend the castle.
- knowledgenounB1the information and understanding you get from learning or experienceHe has a deep knowledge of local history.
L
- labornounB2work, especially hard physical work, or the workers who do itThe country has a shortage of skilled labor.
- landnounA2the solid part of the earth’s surface, not the seaAfter weeks at sea, the sailors finally saw land.
- languagenounA1a system of words used by the people of a country or groupShe speaks three languages.
- latitudenounC1the distance of a place north or south of the equator, measured in degreesThe city lies at a latitude of 40 degrees north.
- laughnounA1the act or sound of laughingShe has a loud, happy laugh.
- lawnounA2an official rule made by a governmentThere is a law against smoking in restaurants.
- lawyernounA2a person whose job is to give legal advice and represent people in courtYou should talk to a lawyer before signing the contract.
- leadernounA2a person who leads or controls a group, country or organizationWorld leaders met to discuss the crisis.
- leaguenounB2a group of sports teams that play against each otherThey finished top of the league this season.
- leavenounA1time allowed away from workShe is on maternity leave until June.
- legnounA1one of the long body parts that people and animals use to stand and walkHe broke his leg skiing.
- letternounA1a written message sent to someone, usually by mailI got a letter from my grandmother.
- levelnounA2the amount, degree or standard of somethingHer level of English is very high.
- liberalnounC1a person with liberal political viewsLiberals and conservatives disagreed over the bill.
- lienounA2something you say that you know is falseShe told a lie to avoid trouble.
- lifenounA1the time between someone’s birth and deathShe lived in the same town all her life.
- lightnounA1the brightness from the sun or a lamp that lets you seeTurn on the light, please.
- linenounA1a long, thin mark on a surfaceDraw a straight line across the page.
- listnounA1a set of names or things written one below anotherI made a shopping list before going out.
- localnounA2a person who lives in a particular areaAsk a local for the best place to eat.
- looknounA1the act of looking at somethingCan I have a look at your photos?
- lossnounB1the fact of no longer having somethingMany workers fear the loss of their jobs.
- lotnounA1an area of land used for a purposePark in the lot behind the store.
- lovenounA1a strong feeling of caring for or attraction to someoneTheir love for each other grew over the years.
M
- machinenounA2a piece of equipment with moving parts that uses power to do workPut the dirty towels in the washing machine.
- magazinenounA1a thin book with articles and photos, published regularlyI read a fashion magazine on the plane.
- majornounB1the main subject a student studies at college (US)Her major is biology.
- majoritynounB1most of the people or things in a groupThe majority of students passed the exam.
- malicenounC1the wish to hurt or upset someoneI don’t think he did it out of malice.
- mannounA1an adult male personA tall man was standing at the door.
- managementnounB1the control and organization of a business or activityGood time management is important for students.
- managernounA2a person who is in charge of a business, department or teamI asked to speak to the store manager.
- manifestnounC2a list of passengers or goods on a ship or planeThe cargo was not listed on the ship’s manifest.
- manifestationnounC1a sign that shows something exists or is happeningThe protests were a manifestation of public anger.
- marketnounA1a place where people buy and sell goods, often outdoorsWe buy fresh fish at the market.
- marriagenounB1the legal relationship between two people who are husband and wife or partnersThey have a happy marriage.
- materialnounB1a substance used for making thingsWood is a common building material.
- matternounA2a subject or situation that you need to deal withThis is a serious matter.
- maximnounC1a short saying that expresses a general truth or rule of behaviorShe lives by the maxim “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.”
- measurenounB1an official action taken to deal with a problemThe city introduced new measures to cut traffic.
- medianounB1television, radio, newspapers and the internet as ways of giving news and informationThe story got a lot of attention in the media.
- meetingnounA2an event where people come together to discuss or decide thingsWe have a team meeting every Monday morning.
- membernounA2a person who belongs to a group, club or organizationShe is a member of the school chess club.
- memorynounB1the ability to remember thingsMy grandfather has an amazing memory for names.
- mentionnounB1a short remark about someone or somethingThere was no mention of the price in the email.
- meritnounC1a good quality that deserves praise or rewardEach proposal will be judged on its merits.
- messagenounA1a short piece of written or spoken information you send to someoneI sent you a message about dinner.
- methodnounB1a particular way of doing something, often a planned oneThis is a simple method for learning new words.
- middlenounA1the central part or point of somethingThere’s a big table in the middle of the room.
- mightnounA2great strength or powerShe pushed the door with all her might.
- militarynounB1the armed forces of a countryThe military was sent to help after the flood.
- millionnounA1a very large number of somethingI’ve told you a million times to close the door!
- mindnounA2the part of a person that thinks, feels and remembersI can’t get that song out of my mind.
- minutenounA1a period of sixty secondsThe bus will arrive in five minutes.
- missionnounB2an important job, often involving travel, that someone is sent to doThe astronauts returned safely from their mission.
- modenounB2a particular way or style of doing somethingCycling is my favorite mode of transportation.
- modelnounA2a small copy of something, such as a building or vehicleMy son built a model of a plane.
- momentnounA2a very short period of timeCould you wait a moment, please?
- moneynounA1coins, notes or digital amounts you use to buy thingsI don’t have enough money for a new car.
- monthnounA1one of the twelve periods that a year is divided intoWe’re moving house next month.
- morningnounA1the early part of the day, from when the sun rises until noonI usually go running in the morning.
- mothernounA1a female parentMy mother taught me how to cook.
- mouthnounA1the opening in the face used for eating and speakingDon’t talk with your mouth full.
- movenounA1an action taken to achieve somethingAsking for help was a smart move.
- movementnounB1a change of position or placeThe camera picks up any movement in the garden.
- movienounA1a story shown as moving pictures on a screenWe watched a funny movie last night.
- MrnounA1a title used before a man’s family name or full nameMr Lee will be your teacher this year.
- MrsnounA1a title used before a married woman’s family name or full nameMrs Garcia lives next door.
- multitudenounC2a very large number of things or peopleThe app has a multitude of uses.
- musenounC2a person or spirit that gives an artist ideas and inspirationThe singer was the painter’s muse.
- musicnounA1sounds arranged in a pleasant way by singing or playing instrumentsI listen to music on the way to work.
- mustnounA2something that you should really do or haveIf you visit Rome, the old town is a must.
- musternounC1a gathering of soldiers or people, especially for inspectionThe sailors lined up on deck for muster.
N
- namenounA1the word or words that a person, place or thing is calledWhat’s the name of this street?
- nationnounB1a country, especially when thinking of its people, culture and governmentThe president spoke to the nation on television.
- naturenounA2plants, animals, weather and the physical world not made by peopleWe love walking in nature on weekends.
- neednounA1a situation where something is necessary or wantedThere’s no need to shout.
- networknounB1a system of connected lines, roads, computers or peopleThe city has a good bus network.
- newsnounA1new information about recent eventsI have some good news for you!
- newspapernounA1printed or online pages of news and articles published regularlyMy dad reads the newspaper every morning.
- nightnounA1the time when it is dark, between evening and morningI couldn’t sleep last night.
- northnounA1the direction on your left when you face the rising sunThe wind is coming from the north.
- notenounA2a short written message or record to help you rememberI left a note on the kitchen table.
- noticenounA2a written sign or message giving informationThere’s a notice on the door about the meeting.
- notionnounC1an idea, belief or understanding, often one that may be wrongShe rejected the notion that women are bad at math.
- novelnounB1a long written story about imaginary people and eventsShe is writing her first novel.
- numbernounA1a word or symbol such as 1, 2 or 3 that shows an amountPick a number between one and ten.
O
- objectivenounB2something you plan to achieve; an aimOur main objective is to cut costs.
- odiumnounC2strong dislike or disgust that many people feel toward someone because of what they didThe minister faced public odium after the scandal.
- offernounA2a statement that you will give or do somethingThanks for the offer, but I’m fine.
- officenounA1a room or building where people work at desksI get to the office at nine.
- officernounB1a police officerThe officer asked to see my license.
- officialnounB1a person with an important job in an organization or governmentA government official answered questions from reporters.
- oilnounA2a thick liquid from plants or animals used in cookingFry the onions in a little olive oil.
- operationnounB1the process of cutting into someone’s body to repair or remove somethingShe needs an operation on her knee.
- opportunitynounB1a time or situation when you can do something you wantThis job is a great opportunity to travel.
- optionnounB1something you can choose from a set of possibilitiesWe have two options: stay here or go home.
- ordernounA2the way things are arranged one after anotherPut the names in alphabetical order.
- organizationnounB1a group such as a company, club or charity with a shared purposeShe works for an organization that helps refugees.
- outsidenounA1the outer part or surface of somethingThe outside of the house is painted white.
- ownernounB1a person who owns somethingThe owner of the shop is very friendly.
P
- pagenounA1one side of a sheet of paper in a book, magazine or documentPlease open your books to page 20.
- painnounA2the feeling you have when part of your body hurtsI have a sharp pain in my back.
- paintingnounA2a picture made with paintThere’s a beautiful painting above the fireplace.
- pallnounC2a dark cloud of smoke or a heavy, gloomy feeling covering somethingThe news cast a pall over the celebrations.
- papernounA1thin material for writing, printing or wrapping thingsCan I borrow a piece of paper?
- parablenounC1a short, simple story that teaches a moral or religious lessonThe film works as a parable about greed.
- parentnounA1a person’s mother or fatherMy parents live in a small town.
- partnounA1one of the pieces or sections that make up a wholeThe first part of the movie was boring.
- participantnounB2a person who takes part in an activity or eventAll participants will receive a certificate.
- partisannounC2a member of an armed group fighting secretly against an occupying armyThe partisans blew up the railway line.
- partnernounA2the person you are married to or in a relationship withAre you bringing your partner to the party?
- partynounA1a social event where people meet to eat, drink, talk and have funWe’re having a party for her birthday.
- passagenounB2a short section of a book, speech or piece of musicRead the passage and answer the questions below.
- pastnounA2the time before nowIn the past, people wrote letters by hand.
- patientnounB1a person who is getting medical careThe doctor sees thirty patients a day.
- patternnounB1a regular way in which something happens or is doneDoctors noticed a pattern in his sleep problems.
- paynounA1money you get for doing your jobThe pay is good, but the hours are long.
- peacenounB1a situation with no war or fightingBoth countries want lasting peace.
- peoplenounA1more than one person; men, women and childrenThere were a lot of people at the beach.
- performancenounB1the act of performing a play, piece of music or showThe evening performance starts at eight.
- periodnounA2a length of timeThe store will be closed for a short period.
- personnounA1a man, woman or childShe’s the nicest person I know.
- phonenounA1a device you use to talk to people who are far away, or a mobile phoneMy phone is almost out of battery.
- picknounA2a choice, or the best one of a groupTake your pick of the desserts.
- picturenounA1a painting, drawing or photographCan you take a picture of us by the lake?
- piecenounA2a part that is cut, broken or separated from something biggerWould you like a piece of cake?
- placenounA1a particular area, building, town or positionThis is a great place for a picnic.
- plannounA1an idea or set of steps for doing something in the futureWhat are your plans for the weekend?
- plantnounA2a living thing that grows in soil and usually has leaves, stems and rootsI water my plants every Sunday.
- playnounA1a story performed by actors in a theaterWe saw a play by Arthur Miller.
- playernounA2a person who takes part in a game or sportEach team has eleven players on the field.
- plusnounB1an advantage or good pointLiving near the station is a real plus.
- PMnounA1short for prime ministerThe PM spoke to reporters this morning.
- pointnounA2an idea or fact that someone says in a discussion, or the main meaning of itThat’s a good point, I hadn’t thought of that.
- policenounA2the official organization whose job is to keep order and stop crimeThe police are looking for the driver.
- policynounB1a set of plans or rules agreed by a government, company or groupThe company has a strict no-smoking policy.
- politicsnounB1the activities and ideas connected with governing a country or areaShe wants a career in politics.
- pompnounC2the impressive clothes, music and ceremony of an important official eventThe coronation was held with great pomp.
- populationnounB1the number of people who live in a particular placeThe city has a population of about two million.
- positionnounB1the place where someone or something is, or the way they are sitting or standingMark the position of each chair on the floor plan.
- powernounA2control or influence over people and eventsThe president has the power to veto laws.
- practicenounA2doing something again and again to improve your skillSpeaking a language well takes a lot of practice.
- preceptnounC2a general rule that tells you how to behave or thinkThe school is run on the precept that every child can learn.
- precisionnounB2the quality of being exact, accurate and carefulThe surgeon worked with great precision.
- predecessornounC1a person who had a job before someone elseThe new CEO praised her predecessor.
- premisenounC1an idea that is accepted as true and used as the basis for an argumentThe theory is based on a false premise.
- presentnounA2something you give to someone, for example on their birthdayThanks for the birthday present!
- presidentnounA2the leader of a country that does not have a king or queenThe president gave a speech on TV last night.
- pressurenounB1a worried feeling caused by having too much to do or too many demandsStudents are under a lot of pressure during exams.
- pricenounA1the amount of money you must pay to buy somethingGas prices went up again this month.
- problemnounA1a situation or thing that causes difficulty and needs to be dealt withWe have a problem with the heating.
- proceedingnounC1(plural) a legal action taken against someone in courtThe bank began legal proceedings against him.
- processnounB1a series of actions or steps that lead to a resultApplying for a visa is a slow process.
- producenounB1fruit and vegetables grown for sale (pronounced PROH-dooss)The market sells fresh local produce.
- productnounA2something that is made or grown to be soldThe company launched three new products this year.
- productionnounB1the process of making or growing things, or the amount madeOil production fell by ten percent.
- professionalnounB1a person who does a skilled job, or who works in a skilled and careful wayLeave the wiring to a professional.
- professornounA2a teacher at a college or university, especially one of high rankMy history professor gives long but interesting lectures.
- programnounA2a show on TV or radioWhat’s your favorite TV program?
- projectnounA2a planned piece of work with a particular goalWe’re working on a group project about climate change.
- projectionnounB2an estimate of a future amount or situation based on present informationSales projections for next year look strong.
- propertynounB1things that someone ownsThe hotel is not responsible for guests’ personal property.
- proprietynounC2correct and polite behavior that follows accepted moral or social standardsShe always behaved with complete propriety.
- prowessnounC2great skill or ability in a particular activityHe is known for his prowess on the tennis court.
- publicnounA2ordinary people in generalThe museum is free for the public on Sundays.
- pullnounA2an act of pulling, or a strong attractionGive the rope a hard pull.
- purportnounC2(formal) the general meaning or purpose of somethingThe purport of his speech was clear enough.
- purposenounB1the reason why something is done, made or usedWhat is the purpose of your visit?
- pursenounB1(US) a handbag in which a woman carries money and personal thingsShe put her phone in her purse.
- pushnounA2an act of pushingThe car started after a few pushes.
Q
R
- racenounA2a competition to see who is fastestShe won the 100-meter race.
- radionounA1a device for listening to programs that are broadcastTurn on the radio for the traffic news.
- railnounB2the railroad system, or one of the metal bars trains run onGoods are transported by rail.
- rampartnounC2a wide wall of earth or stone built to protect a castle or townWe walked along the ramparts of the old city.
- rangenounB1a number of different things of the same general typeThe store sells a wide range of shoes.
- ratenounB1how often or how fast something happens, often as a number or percentageThe unemployment rate fell last year.
- ravenounC1a large party with electronic dance musicThey went to an all-night rave in a warehouse.
- realitynounB1the true situation, not what people imagine or hopeWe need to face reality and cut costs.
- reasonnounA2a cause or explanation for somethingWhat was the reason for the delay?
- rebukenounC2words that strongly criticize someoneThe report was a sharp rebuke to the government.
- recordnounA2written information kept about something so it can be checked laterThe clinic keeps records of every visit.
- recoursenounC2a possible source of help in a difficult situation, or the use of itWithout insurance, they had no recourse but to pay.
- rednounA1the color redRed is my favorite color.
- regionnounB1a large area of a country or the world, often without exact bordersThis region is famous for its cheese.
- relationshipnounB1the way people or groups feel about and behave toward each otherShe has a good relationship with her boss.
- repealnounC1the act of officially ending a lawCampaigners called for the repeal of the ban.
- reportnounA2a spoken or written description of an event or situationI have to finish the sales report by Friday.
- RepublicannounB2a member or supporter of the Republican Party, one of the two main US political partiesTwo Republicans voted against the bill.
- researchnounB1careful study of a subject to discover new factsShe is doing research on bird migration.
- resourcenounB1something useful, such as money, people or materials, that you can useThe school doesn’t have enough resources for new computers.
- responsenounB1an answer or replyI’m still waiting for a response from the bank.
- responsibilitynounB1a duty to take care of someone or something as part of your job or roleIt’s my responsibility to lock up the office.
- restnounA2the part or people that remainI’ll eat the rest of the pizza tomorrow.
- resultnounA2something that happens because of something elseThe flood was the result of heavy rain.
- retortnounC2a quick, sharp or witty replyHe had a clever retort for every insult.
- returnnounA2the act of coming back, or the profit from an investmentWe celebrated her return from the hospital.
- rhetoricnounC1speech or writing meant to persuade, often seen as impressive but insincereVoters are tired of empty political rhetoric.
- ridernounC1a person who rides a horse, bicycle or motorcycleThe rider fell off but was not hurt.
- rightnounA1the side of the body that most people write with, or that directionTurn right at the traffic lights.
- ripplenounC1a small wave on the surface of waterThe stone made ripples on the pond.
- risenounB1an increase in amount, number or levelThere has been a rise in online shopping.
- risknounB1the chance that something bad will happenSmoking increases the risk of heart disease.
- roadnounA1a hard surface for cars and other vehicles to travel onBe careful when you cross the road.
- rocknounA2the hard solid material that forms part of the earth, or a large piece of itWe sat on a rock by the river.
- rolenounB1the job or function someone or something has in a situationParents play a key role in a child’s education.
- roomnounA1a separate area inside a building with its own walls, floor and ceilingOur apartment has three rooms.
- routnounC2a complete defeat, or a disorderly retreat after a defeatThe match ended in a 6–0 rout.
- rulenounA2an official instruction that says what is allowed or not allowedThe rules say no phones during the exam.
S
- safenounA2a strong metal box with a lock for keeping money or valuablesThe hotel room has a small safe.
- sanctionnounC1an official order limiting trade or contact with a country, as a punishmentThe UN imposed sanctions on the regime.
- satirenounC1the use of humor or exaggeration to criticize people or ideas, or a work that does thisThe show is a sharp satire of modern politics.
- saynounA1the right to give your opinion and influence a decisionWorkers want more say in how the company is run.
- scalenounB2the size or level of something, especially compared with othersThe scale of the damage was shocking.
- scenenounB1the place where something happens, especially something badPolice arrived at the scene of the accident.
- schemenounC1a clever, often dishonest plan to get somethingHe lost his savings in a get-rich-quick scheme.
- schoolnounA1a place where children go to learnMy kids walk to school.
- sciencenounA2the study of the natural and physical world through observation and experimentsScience was my favorite subject in school.
- scientistnounA2a person who studies or works in one of the sciencesScientists have found a new species of frog.
- scorenounA2the number of points each player or team has in a game, or a mark on a testThe final score was 3–1.
- seanounA1the large area of salt water that covers much of the earthWe swam in the sea every morning.
- seasonnounA1one of the four parts of the year: spring, summer, fall and winterFall is my favorite season.
- seatnounA1something you sit on, such as a chair, or a place where you can sitIs this seat taken?
- secondnounA1one sixtieth of a minute, or a very short timeWait a second, I’m coming.
- sectionnounB1one of the parts that something is divided intoRead section two of the report.
- securitynounB1actions and people that protect a place or country from crime or attackSecurity at the airport was very tight.
- semblancenounC2an appearance or small amount of something, often when the reality is missingThe city slowly returned to some semblance of normality.
- seniornounB1a student in the last year of high school or college in the USMy brother is a senior this year.
- sensenounB1one of the natural abilities of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touchDogs have a very good sense of smell.
- sentinelnounC2a soldier or guard whose job is to watch for dangerA sentinel stood at each gate of the fortress.
- seriesnounB1a number of similar things or events that come one after anotherThere was a series of accidents on the highway.
- servicenounA2the help that staff give to customers in a store, hotel, or restaurantThe food was good, but the service was slow.
- setnounA2a group of similar things that belong togetherI bought a new set of pans.
- sexnounB1the biological state of being male or femaleThe form asks for your name, age, and sex.
- shakenounA2a quick movement up and down or from side to sideGive the box a good shake.
- sharenounA2one part of something that is divided between peopleEveryone paid their share of the bill.
- shotnounB1the act of firing a gun, or the sound it makesWe heard two shots in the distance.
- shouldernounA2the part of the body between the neck and the top of the armShe carried her bag on her shoulder.
- shownounA1a performance or program for entertainmentWe watched a comedy show on TV.
- sidenounA2the left or right part of something or someoneThere’s a door on the left side of the house.
- siegenounC1a military operation in which an army surrounds a place to force it to surrenderThe city was under siege for six months.
- signnounA2a board or notice with words or pictures giving informationThe sign said “No parking”.
- sisternounA1a girl or woman who has the same parents as youMy sister is two years older than me.
- sitenounB1a place where something is, was, or will be builtThey visited the site of the new school.
- situationnounA2all the facts and conditions at a certain time and placeThe situation is getting better.
- sizenounA1how big or small something isThe size of the room surprised us.
- skillnounA2an ability to do something well, usually learned through practiceGood communication skills are important in this job.
- skinnounA2the outer layer that covers the body of a person or animalThis cream is good for dry skin.
- smilenounA2an expression where your mouth curves upHe has a warm smile.
- sobnounC1the sound of loud, noisy cryingWe could hear sobs from the next room.
- societynounB1people living together as a large community with shared laws and customsTechnology has changed modern society.
- soldiernounA2a person who is a member of an armyThe soldiers marched through the town.
- sonnounA1a person’s male childTheir son is studying in Chicago.
- songnounA1a short piece of music with words that you singThis is my favorite song.
- sortnounA2a type or kind of person or thingWhat sort of music do you like?
- soundnounA2something that you hearI heard a strange sound outside.
- sourcenounB1the place, person, or thing that something comes fromFruit is a good source of vitamins.
- southnounA1the direction to your right when you face the rising sunBirds fly south for the winter.
- spacenounA2an empty area that can be usedIs there enough space for my bag?
- speechnounB1a formal talk given to a group of peopleThe president gave a speech on TV.
- sportnounA1a game or physical activity with rules, played for fun or in competitionSoccer is the most popular sport in the world.
- springnounA1the season between winter and summerThe flowers bloom in spring.
- staffnounB1all the people who work for an organizationThe hotel staff were very friendly.
- stagenounA2a part or point in a processThe project is in its early stages.
- stakenounC1a share in a business or an interest in what happensThe firm bought a 20% stake in the airline.
- standnounA1a small table or stall for selling thingsWe bought corn at a farm stand.
- standardnounB1a level of quality that is expected or reachedThe hotel has very high standards.
- starnounA1a bright point of light in the night skyWe could see thousands of stars.
- startnounA1the beginning of somethingWe missed the start of the movie.
- statenounA2the condition of someone or something at a certain timeThe house was in a terrible state.
- statementnounB1something that someone says or writes officiallyThe company made a statement to the press.
- stationnounA1a place where trains or buses stop for passengersI’ll meet you at the train station.
- stepnounA2the act of moving one foot in front of the otherThe baby took her first steps.
- stocknounB2the goods a store has available to sellSorry, that model is out of stock.
- stopnounA1a place where a bus or train regularly stopsGet off at the next stop.
- storenounA1a building or room where things are soldI need to go to the grocery store.
- storynounA1a description of real or imaginary events, told or written for othersMy dad told us a funny story.
- strategynounB2a careful plan for reaching a goal, usually over a long timeThe company needs a new marketing strategy.
- stratumnounC2one layer of rock or soil lying between othersFossils were found in a stratum of limestone.
- streetnounA1a road in a town or city with buildings along itShe lives on Oak Street.
- structurenounB1the way the parts of something are organizedWe studied the structure of the sentence.
- studentnounA1a person who is studying at a school, college, or universityShe’s a student at the state university.
- studynounA1a piece of research on a subjectA new study shows that sleep helps memory.
- stuffnounA2things in general, when you don’t name them exactly (informal)Put your stuff in the closet.
- stumpnounC2the part of a tree left in the ground after it has been cut downHe sat on an old tree stump.
- stylenounA2a particular way of doing, making, or designing somethingI like the style of this building.
- subjectnounA1the thing that people are talking or writing aboutLet’s change the subject.
- sublimenounC2something so great or beautiful that it inspires aweRomantic poets were fascinated by the sublime.
- successnounA2the result of reaching a goal or doing something wellHard work is the key to success.
- suffragenounC2the right to vote in political electionsWomen won suffrage in the US in 1920.
- summernounA1the warmest season of the year, between spring and fallWe go camping every summer.
- suppliantnounC2a person who humbly begs someone powerful for somethingThe suppliants knelt before the emperor.
- supportnounA2help, encouragement, or money given to someoneThank you for your support.
- surfacenounB1the top or outside layer of somethingClean the surface of the table.
- symmetrynounC1the quality of having two halves that match exactlyThe building is admired for its perfect symmetry.
- systemnounA2a set of connected parts or methods that work togetherThe city has a good public transportation system.
T
- tablenounA1a piece of furniture with a flat top and legsDinner is on the table.
- talknounA1a conversationI had a long talk with my boss.
- tasknounA2a piece of work that must be doneMy first task is to answer these emails.
- taxnounB1money that people and businesses must pay to the governmentThe price includes sales tax.
- teachernounA1a person whose job is to teach, especially in a schoolOur math teacher is very patient.
- teamnounA1a group of people who play a sport together against another groupWhich team do you support?
- technologynounA2scientific knowledge used to make machines and tools, or the machines themselvesNew technology makes our lives easier.
- televisionnounA1a device with a screen for watching programsWe bought a new television.
- tempernounB2a tendency to become angry easily, or a sudden angry moodHe has a terrible temper.
- termnounB1a word or phrase with a particular meaning“Byte” is a computer term.
- territorynounB2land controlled by a particular country, ruler or groupThe plane entered enemy territory.
- testnounA1a set of questions to measure someone’s knowledge or skillI have a history test tomorrow.
- theorynounB1a set of ideas that tries to explain why something happensDarwin’s theory of evolution changed science.
- thingnounA1an object whose name you don’t need or don’t knowWhat’s that thing on the table?
- thirdnounA1one of three equal parts of somethingA third of the class was sick.
- thoughtnounA2an idea or opinion that comes into your mindI had a sudden thought about the problem.
- thousandnounA1thousands: a very large numberThousands of fans waited outside.
- threatnounB2a statement that someone will hurt you or cause troubleHe made threats against his neighbor.
- throngnounC2a large crowd of peopleA throng of fans waited outside the hotel.
- tidenounB2the regular rise and fall of the seaThe tide comes in twice a day.
- timenounA1what is measured in minutes, hours, days, and yearsI don’t have much time today.
- todaynounA1the present time or periodToday’s phones are much faster than old ones.
- toilnounC2hard, tiring workYears of toil had made his hands rough.
- tonightnounA1the evening or night of todayTonight’s game starts at eight.
- topnounA1the highest part or point of somethingWe climbed to the top of the hill.
- totalnounB1the number you get when you add everything togetherThe total came to fifty dollars.
- tournounA2a trip visiting several places, or a short visit around a building or siteWe took a guided tour of the museum.
- townnounA1a place with houses and shops, smaller than a cityI grew up in a small town.
- tractnounC2a large area of landThey bought a huge tract of forest.
- tradenounB1the buying and selling of goods between people or countriesTrade between the two countries is growing.
- trainingnounA2the process of learning the skills for a job or activityNew staff get two weeks of training.
- travelnounA1the activity of travelingAir travel is getting more expensive.
- treadnounC1the raised pattern on a tire or shoe sole that helps it gripThe tires had almost no tread left.
- treatnounB1something special that gives pleasure, or that you pay forLunch is my treat today.
- treatmentnounB1medical care for an illness or injuryShe is receiving treatment for cancer.
- treenounA1a tall plant with a wooden trunk, branches, and leavesThere’s an old oak tree in our yard.
- trialnounB2a legal process in court to decide if someone is guiltyThe trial lasted three weeks.
- tribunalnounC1a special court or official group that judges a particular kind of case or disputeAn international tribunal was set up to try war crimes.
- tripnounA1a journey to a place and back againWe took a trip to the mountains.
- troublenounA2problems, difficulties, or worryI had trouble finding your house.
- truthnounA2the real facts about somethingJust tell me the truth.
- trynounA1an attempt to do somethingI couldn’t open it, but give it a try.
- turnnounA1the time when someone is allowed to do somethingIt’s your turn to wash the dishes.
- TVnounA1television; the shows on it or the device you watch them onWe watched TV after dinner.
- typenounA2a group of people or things that share qualitiesWhat type of music do you like?
U
V
- valuenounB1how much money something is worthThe value of the house has doubled.
- venturenounC1a new business or project that involves riskTheir latest business venture was a huge success.
- victimnounB1a person or animal hurt or killed by a crime, accident, or illnessThe victims of the flood need help.
- viewnounA2what you can see from a placeOur room had a view of the ocean.
- violencenounB1physical force used to hurt people or damage thingsThe movie has too much violence.
- visagenounC2(literary) a person’s face or facial expressionThe old soldier’s stern visage softened into a smile.
- visitnounA1an occasion when you go to see a person or placeThis is my first visit to Paris.
- voicenounA2the sound you make when you speak or singShe has a beautiful singing voice.
- votenounB1a choice made by voting, or the act of votingThe plan passed with 60 votes.
W
- waitnounA1a period of waitingThere was a long wait at the doctor’s office.
- walknounA1a trip on foot, often for pleasureLet’s go for a walk in the park.
- wallnounA1one of the sides of a room or buildingWe hung a picture on the wall.
- warnounA2fighting between countries or groups using weaponsMany people died in the war.
- warrantnounC1a legal document that allows the police to do something, such as arrest someoneThe police had a warrant to search the house.
- watchnounA1a small clock you wear on your wristMy watch stopped working.
- waternounA1the clear liquid in rain, rivers, and seas that we drinkCan I have a glass of water?
- waxnounC1a soft substance made from fat or oil, used for candles and polishThe candle wax dripped onto the table.
- waynounA1a method or manner of doing somethingThis is the best way to learn.
- weaponnounB1an object such as a gun or knife used to hurt peoplePolice found a weapon near the scene.
- weeknounA1a period of seven daysI go to the gym three times a week.
- weightnounA2how heavy someone or something isWhat’s the weight of this box?
- westnounA2the direction where the sun goes downThe sun sets in the west.
- westernnounB1a movie about cowboys in the American WestMy dad loves old westerns.
- whilenounA2a period of timeI waited for a while, then left.
- whitenounA1the color whiteThe walls are painted white.
- wholenounA2a complete thing made of partsTwo halves make a whole.
- wifenounA1the woman someone is married toHis wife is a teacher.
- willnounA1the strong wish or determination to do somethingShe has the will to succeed.
- winnounA1a victoryIt was their third win in a row.
- windnounA2air that moves naturally across the landThe wind blew my hat off.
- windownounA1an opening in a wall or vehicle, usually with glass, to let in lightCan you open the window?
- wishnounA2a desire or hope for somethingClose your eyes and make a wish.
- womannounA1an adult female personA young woman asked me for directions.
- wondernounA2a feeling of surprise and admirationThe children looked at the stars in wonder.
- wordnounA1a single unit of language with meaning, spoken or writtenWhat does this word mean?
- worknounA1a job or the place where you do itI leave for work at eight.
- workernounA2a person who works, especially in a particular jobThe factory has 200 workers.
- worldnounA1the earth and all the people and places on itShe wants to travel around the world.
- worrynounA2a feeling of being anxious, or something that causes itMoney is my biggest worry.
- writernounA2a person whose job is writing books, articles, or storiesMark Twain is a famous American writer.
Y
- yardnounA2the area of grass or ground around a houseThe kids are playing in the back yard.
- yearnounA1a period of twelve monthsI moved here two years ago.
- yieldnounC1the amount of something produced, such as crops or profitRice yields rose sharply this year.
- youngnounA1young people, or the babies of an animalThe bird feeds its young every hour.