Gre Wordlist 17 : encumber - eulogistic

1.encumber	burden; N. encumbrance	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): -cum·bered; en·cum·ber·ing /-b(&-)ri[ng]/ Etymology: Middle English encombren, from Middle French encombrer, from Old French, from en- + (assumed) Old French combre dam, weir 1 : WEIGH DOWN, BURDEN 2 : to impede or hamper the function or activity of : HINDER 3 : to burden with a legal claim (as a mortgage) <encumber an estate>
2.endearment	fond word or act; expression of affection	Function: noun 1 : a word or an act (as a caress) expressing affection 2 : the act or process of endearing
3.endemic	prevailing among a specific group of people or in a specific area or country; peculiar to a particular region or people; CF. pandemic	Function: adjective Etymology: French endémique, from endémie endemic disease, from Greek endEmia action of dwelling, from endEmos endemic, from en in + dEmos people, populace -- more at DEMAGOGUE 1 a : belonging or native to a particular people or country b : characteristic of or prevalent in a particular field, area, or environment <problems endemic to translation> <the self-indulgence endemic in the film industry> 2 : restricted or peculiar to a locality or region <endemic diseases> <an endemic species> synonym see NATIVE - en·dem·i·cal·ly /-'de-mi-k(&-)lE/ adverb - en·de·mic·i·ty /"en-"de-'mi-s&-tE, -d&-'mi-/ noun - en·de·mism /'en-d&-"mi-z&m/ noun
4.endorse	approve; support; write one's signature on the back of; N. endorsement; CF. dorsal	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·dorsed; en·dors·ing Etymology: alteration of obsolete endoss, from Middle English endosen, from Middle French endosser, from Old French, to put on the back, from en- + dos back, from Latin dorsum 1 a : to write on the back of; especially : to sign one's name as payee on the back of (a check) in order to obtain the cash or credit represented on the face b : to inscribe (one's signature) on a check, bill, or note c : to inscribe (as an official document) with a title or memorandum d : to make over to another (the value represented in a check, bill, or note) by inscribing one's name on the document e : to acknowledge receipt of (a sum specified) by one's signature on a document 2 : to approve openly <endorse an idea>; especially : to express support or approval of publicly and definitely <endorse a mayoral candidate> synonym see APPROVE - en·dors·able /-'dor-s&-b&l/ adjective - en·dors·ee /in-"dor-'sE, "en-/ noun - en·dors·er /in-'dor-s&r/ noun
5.endue	provide with some quality; endow	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·dued; en·du·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French enduire to bring in, introduce, from Latin inducere -- more at INDUCE 1 : PROVIDE, ENDOW 2 : IMBUE, TRANSFUSE 3 [Middle English induen; influenced by Latin induere to put on] : PUT ON, DON
6.enduring	lasting; surviving; V. endure: bear (pain or suffering) for a long time; remain alive (in spite of difficulties); last; survive	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): en·dured; en·dur·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French endurer, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin indurare, from Latin, to harden, from in- + durare to harden, endure -- more at DURING transitive senses 1 : to undergo (as a hardship) especially without giving in : SUFFER 2 : to regard with acceptance or tolerance <could not endure noisy children> intransitive senses 1 : to continue in the same state : LAST 2 : to remain firm under suffering or misfortune without yielding synonym see BEAR, CONTINUE
7.energize	invigorate; give energy to; make forceful and active	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): -gized; -giz·ing intransitive senses : to put forth energy : ACT transitive senses 1 : to make energetic , vigorous, or active 2 : to impart energy to 3 : to apply voltage to - en·er·gi·za·tion /"e-n&r-"jI-'zA-sh&n/ noun - en·er·giz·er noun
8.enervate	weaken; take away energy from	Function: adjective : lacking physical, mental, or moral vigor : ENERVATED
9.enfranchise	admit to the rights of citizenship (especially the right to vote); CF. franchise	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): -chised; -chis·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French enfranchiss-, stem of enfranchir, from Old French, from en- + franc free -- more at FRANK 1 : to set free (as from slavery) 2 : to endow with a franchise: as a : to admit to the privileges of a citizen and especially to the right of suffrage b : to admit (a municipality) to political privileges or rights - en·fran·chise·ment /-"chIz-m&nt, -ch&z-/ noun
10.engage	attract; employ; hire; pledge oneself; confront; fight; enter into confliction; interlock; lock together; participate; N. engagement: agreement to marry; arrangement to meet someone or to do something; battle	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): en·gaged; en·gag·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French engagier, from Old French, from en- + gage token, gage transitive senses 1 : to offer (as one's word) as security for a debt or cause 2 a obsolete : to entangle or entrap in or as if in a snare or bog b : to attract and hold by influence or power c : to interlock with : MESH; also : to cause (mechanical parts) to mesh 3 : to bind (as oneself) to do something; especially : to bind by a pledge to marry 4 a : to provide occupation for : INVOLVE <engage him in a new project> b : to arrange to obtain the use or services of : HIRE 5 a : to hold the attention of : ENGROSS <her work engages her completely> b : to induce to participate <engaged the shy boy in conversation> 6 a : to enter into contest with b : to bring together or interlock (weapons) 7 : to deal with especially at length intransitive senses 1 a : to pledge oneself : PROMISE b : GUARANTEE <he engages for the honesty of his brother> 2 a : to begin and carry on an enterprise or activity <engaged in trade for a number of years> b : to take part : PARTICIPATE <at college she engaged in gymnastics> 3 : to enter into conflict 4 : to come together and interlock (as of machinery parts) : be or become in gear
11.engaging	charming; attractive	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): en·gaged; en·gag·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French engagier, from Old French, from en- + gage token, gage transitive senses 1 : to offer (as one's word) as security for a debt or cause 2 a obsolete : to entangle or entrap in or as if in a snare or bog b : to attract and hold by influence or power c : to interlock with : MESH; also : to cause (mechanical parts) to mesh 3 : to bind (as oneself) to do something; especially : to bind by a pledge to marry 4 a : to provide occupation for : INVOLVE <engage him in a new project> b : to arrange to obtain the use or services of : HIRE 5 a : to hold the attention of : ENGROSS <her work engages her completely> b : to induce to participate <engaged the shy boy in conversation> 6 a : to enter into contest with b : to bring together or interlock (weapons) 7 : to deal with especially at length intransitive senses 1 a : to pledge oneself : PROMISE b : GUARANTEE <he engages for the honesty of his brother> 2 a : to begin and carry on an enterprise or activity <engaged in trade for a number of years> b : to take part : PARTICIPATE <at college she engaged in gymnastics> 3 : to enter into conflict 4 : to come together and interlock (as of machinery parts) : be or become in gear
12.engender	cause; produce; give rise to	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): en·gen·dered; en·gen·der·ing /-d(&-)ri[ng]/ Etymology: Middle English engendren, from Middle French engendrer, from Latin ingenerare, from in- + generare to generate transitive senses 1 : BEGET, PROCREATE 2 : to cause to exist or to develop : PRODUCE <angry words engender strife> intransitive senses : to assume form : ORIGINATE
13.engross	occupy fully; absorb	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French engrosser, probably from Medieval Latin ingrossare, from Latin in + Medieval Latin grossa large handwriting, from Latin, feminine of grossus thick 1 a : to copy or write in a large hand b : to prepare the usually final handwritten or printed text of (an official document) 2 [Middle English, from Middle French en gros in large quantities] a : to purchase large quantities of (as for speculation) b archaic : AMASS, COLLECT c : to take or engage the whole attention of : occupy completely <ideas that have engrossed the minds of scholars for generations> - en·gross·er noun
14.enhance	increase; make greater (as in value, reputation, or usefulness); improve	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·hanced; en·hanc·ing Etymology: Middle English enhauncen, from Anglo-French enhauncer, alteration of Old French enhaucier, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin inaltiare, from Latin in + altus high -- more at OLD 1 obsolete : RAISE 2 : HEIGHTEN, INCREASE; especially : to increase or improve in value, quality, desirability, or attractiveness - en·hance·ment /-'han(t)-sm&nt/ noun
15.enigma	puzzle; mystery; ADJ. enigmatic: obscure; puzzling	Function: noun Etymology: Latin aenigma, from Greek ainigmat-, ainigma, from ainissesthai to speak in riddles, from ainos fable 1 : an obscure speech or writing 2 : something hard to understand or explain 3 : an inscrutable or mysterious person synonym see MYSTERY
16.enjoin	command; order; forbid	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English, from Old French enjoindre, from Latin injungere, from in- + jungere to join -- more at YOKE 1 : to direct or impose by authoritative order or with urgent admonition <enjoined us to be careful> 2 a : FORBID, PROHIBIT <was enjoined by conscience from telling a lie> b : to prohibit by a judicial order : put an injunction on <a book had been enjoined prior to publication -- David Margolick> synonym see COMMAND
17.enmity	ill will; hatred; hostility	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties Etymology: Middle English enmite, from Middle French enemité, from Old French enemisté, from enemi enemy : positive, active, and typically mutual hatred or ill will synonyms ENMITY, HOSTILITY, ANTIPATHY, ANTAGONISM, ANIMOSITY, RANCOR, ANIMUS mean deep-seated dislike or ill will. ENMITY suggests positive hatred which may be open or concealed <an unspoken enmity>. HOSTILITY suggests an enmity showing itself in attacks or aggression <hostility between the two nations>. ANTIPATHY and ANTAGONISM imply a natural or logical basis for one's hatred or dislike, ANTIPATHY suggesting repugnance, a desire to avoid or reject, and ANTAGONISM suggesting a clash of temperaments leading readily to hostility <a natural antipathy for self-seekers> <antagonism between the brothers>. ANIMOSITY suggests intense ill will and vindictiveness that threaten to kindle hostility <animosity that led to revenge>. RANCOR is especially applied to bitter brooding over a wrong <rancor filled every line of his letters>. ANIMUS adds to animosity the implication of strong prejudice <objections devoid of personal animus>.
18.ennui	boredom; listlessness and dissatisfaction resulting from lack of interest; CF. annoy	Function: noun Etymology: French, from Old French enui annoyance, from enuier to annoy -- more at ANNOY : a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction : BOREDOM
19.enormity	hugeness (in a bad sense); excessive wickedness; Ex. enormity of the crime; ADJ. enormous	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties 1 : an outrageous, improper, vicious, or immoral act <the enormities of state power -- Susan Sontag> <other enormities too juvenile to mention -- Richard Freedman> 2 : the quality or state of being immoderate, monstrous, or outrageous; especially : great wickedness <the enormity of the crimes committed during the Third Reich -- G. A. Craig> 3 : the quality or state of being huge : IMMENSITY 4 : a quality of momentous importance usage Enormity, some people insist, is improperly used to denote large size. They insist on enormousness for this meaning, and would limit enormity to the meaning "great wickedness." Those who urge such a limitation may not recognize the subtlety with which enormity is actually used. It regularly denotes a considerable departure from the expected or normal <they awakened; they sat up; and then the enormity of their situation burst upon them. "How did the fire start?" -- John Steinbeck>. When used to denote large size, either literal or figurative, it usually suggests something so large as to seem overwhelming <no intermediate zone of study. Either the enormity of the desert or the sight of a tiny flower -- Paul Theroux> <the enormity of the task of teachers in slum schools -- J. B. Conant> and may even be used to suggest both great size and deviation from morality <the enormity of existing stockpiles of atomic weapons -- New Republic>. It can also emphasize the momentousness of what has happened <the sombre enormity of the Russian Revolution -- George Steiner> or of its consequences <perceived as no one in the family could the enormity of the misfortune -- E. L. Doctorow>.
20.enrapture	please intensely; fill with rapture and delight	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·rap·tured; en·rap·tur·ing /-'rap-ch&-ri[ng], -'rap-shri[ng]/ : to fill with delight
21.ensconce	settle comfortably; place comfortably (in a secure place)	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·sconced; en·sconc·ing Etymology: en- + 2sconce 1 : SHELTER, CONCEAL 2 : ESTABLISH, SETTLE <ensconced in a new job>
22.ensue	follow (as a result)	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): en·sued; en·su·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French ensuivre, from Old French, from en- + suivre to follow -- more at SUE transitive senses : to strive to attain : PURSUE <I wander, seeking peace, and ensuing it -- Rupert Brooke> intransitive senses : to take place afterward or as a result synonym see FOLLOW
23.entail	make necessary; require; necessitate; involve; limit the inheritance of (property) to a specified succession of heirs; Ex. entail A on/upon B	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English entailen, entaillen, from 1en- + taile, taille limitation -- more at TAIL 1 : to restrict (property) by limiting the inheritance to the owner's lineal descendants or to a particular class thereof 2 a : to confer, assign, or transmit as if by entail : FASTEN <entailed on them indelible disgrace -- Robert Browning> b : to fix (a person) permanently in some condition or status <entail him and his heirs unto the crown -- Shakespeare> 3 : to impose, involve, or imply as a necessary accompaniment or result <the project will entail considerable expense> - en·tail·er /-'tA-l&r/ noun - en·tail·ment /-'tAl-m&nt/ noun
24.enterprising	full of initiative; showing enterprise	Function: adjective : marked by an independent energetic spirit and by readiness to undertake or experiment
25.enthrall	capture; enslave; captivate; hold the complete attention of (as if magic); hold spellbound	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·thralled; en·thrall·ing Etymology: Middle English 1 : to hold in or reduce to slavery 2 : to hold spellbound : CHARM - en·thrall·ment /-'throl-m&nt/ noun
26.entice	lure; persuade to do (something wrong); attract; tempt	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): en·ticed; en·tic·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French enticier, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin intitiare, from Latin in- + titio firebrand : to attract artfully or adroitly or by arousing hope or desire : TEMPT synonym see LURE - en·tice·ment /-'tI-sm&nt/ noun - en·tic·ing·ly /-'tI-si[ng]-lE/ adverb
27.entity	real being	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties Etymology: Medieval Latin entitas, from Latin ent-, ens existing thing, from coined present participle of esse to be -- more at IS 1 a : BEING, EXISTENCE; especially : independent, separate, or self-contained existence b : the existence of a thing as contrasted with its attributes 2 : something that has separate and distinct existence and objective or conceptual reality
28.entomology	study of insects	Function: noun Etymology: French entomologie, from Greek entomon insect (from neuter of entomos cut up, from en- + temnein to cut) + French -logie -logy -- more at TOME : a branch of zoology that deals with insects - en·to·mo·log·i·cal /-m&-'lä-ji-k&l/ adjective - en·to·mo·log·i·cal·ly /-k(&-)lE/ adverb - en·to·mol·o·gist /"en-t&-'mä-l&-jist/ noun
29.entrance	put under a spell(condition caused by magical power); carry away(fill with strong feeling) with emotion; put into a trance; fill with delight	Function: noun 1 : power or permission to enter : ADMISSION 2 : the act of entering 3 : the means or place of entry 4 : the point at which a voice or instrument part begins in ensemble music 5 : the first appearance of an actor in a scene
30.entreat	plead; ask earnestly	Function: verb Etymology: Middle English entreten, from Middle French entraitier, from en- + traitier to treat intransitive senses 1 obsolete a : NEGOTIATE b : INTERCEDE 2 : to make an earnest request : PLEAD transitive senses 1 : to plead with especially in order to persuade : ask urgently <entreated his boss for another chance> 2 archaic : to deal with : TREAT synonym see BEG - en·treat·ing·ly /-trE-ti[ng]-lE/ adverb - en·treat·ment /-m&nt/ noun
31.entree	(entr\'ee) entrance; a way in; right to enter; main dish of a meal; Ex. entree into the exclusive circle	Function: noun Etymology: French entrée, from Old French -- more at ENTRY 1 a : the act or manner of entering : ENTRANCE b : freedom of entry or access 2 : the main course of a meal in the U.S.
32.entrepreneur	businessperson (who assumes the risk of a business venture); contractor; ADJ. entrepreneurial	Function: noun Etymology: French, from Old French, from entreprendre to undertake -- more at ENTERPRISE : one who organizes, manages, and assumes the risks of a business or enterprise - en·tre·pre·neur·ial /-'n(y)ur-E-&l, -'n&r-/ adjective - en·tre·pre·neur·ial·ism /-E-&-li-z&m/ noun - en·tre·pre·neur·ial·ly /-E-&-lE/ adverb - en·tre·pre·neur·ship /-'n&r-"ship, -'n(y)ur-/ noun
33.enumerate	list; mention one by one	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): -at·ed; -at·ing Etymology: Latin enumeratus, past participle of enumerare, from e- + numerare to count, from numerus number 1 : to ascertain the number of : COUNT 2 : to specify one after another : LIST - enu·mer·a·tion /-"n(y)ü-m&-'rA-sh&n/ noun - enu·mer·a·tive /-'n(y)ü-m&-"rA-tiv, -'n(y)üm-r&-, -'n(y)ü-m&-r&-/ adjective
34.enunciate	announce; proclaim; utter or speak, especially distinctly; pronounce clearly; articulate; Ex. This theory was first enunciated by him.	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): -at·ed; -at·ing Etymology: Latin enuntiatus, past participle of enuntiare to report, declare, from e- + nuntiare to report -- more at ANNOUNCE transitive senses 1 a : to make a definite or systematic statement of b : ANNOUNCE, PROCLAIM <enunciated the new policy> 2 : ARTICULATE, PRONOUNCE <enunciate all the syllables> intransitive senses : to utter articulate sounds - enun·cia·ble /-'n&n(t)-sE-&-b&l, -'n&n-ch(E-)&-/ adjective - enun·ci·a·tion /-"n&n(t)-sE-'A-sh&n/ noun - enun·ci·a·tor /-'n&n(t)-sE-"A-t&r/ noun
35.environ	enclose; surround; N. environs: surrounding area (as of a city)	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English envirounen, from Middle French environner, from environ around, from en in (from Latin in) + viron circle, from virer to turn -- more at VEER : ENCIRCLE, SURROUND
36.eon	(aeon) long period of time; an age; longest division of geologic time containing two or more eras	Function: noun Etymology: Latin, from Greek aiOn -- more at AYE 1 : an immeasurably or indefinitely long period of time : AGE 2 a usually eon : a very large division of geologic time usually longer than an era b : a unit of geologic time equal to one billion years
37.epaulet	(epaulette) ornament worn on the shoulder (of a uniform, etc.)	Function: noun Etymology: French épaulette, diminutive of épaule shoulder, from Late Latin spatula shoulder blade, spoon, diminutive of Latin spatha spoon, sword -- more at SPADE : something that ornaments or protects the shoulder: as a : an ornamental fringed shoulder pad formerly worn as part of a military uniform b : an ornamental strip or loop sewn across the shoulder of a dress or coat - ep·au·let·ted /"e-p&-'le-t&d, 'e-p&-"/ adjective [epaulet illustration]
38.ephemeral	short-lived; fleeting	Function: adjective Etymology: Greek ephEmeros lasting a day, daily, from epi- + hEmera day 1 : lasting one day only <an ephemeral fever> 2 : lasting a very short time <ephemeral pleasures> synonym see TRANSIENT - ephem·er·al·ly /-r&-lE/ adverb
39.epic	long heroic poem, novel, or similar work of art (celebrating the feats of a hero); ADJ: (of stories or events) resembling an epic; grand	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin epicus, from Greek epikos, from epos word, speech, poem -- more at VOICE 1 : of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an epic 2 a : extending beyond the usual or ordinary especially in size or scope <his genius was epic -- Times Literary Supplement> b : HEROIC - ep·i·cal /-pi-k&l/ adjective - ep·i·cal·ly /-pi-k(&-)lE/ adverb
40.epicure	connoisseur of food and drink; gourmet; ADJ. epicurean; CF. Epicurus	Function: noun Etymology: Epicurus 1 archaic : one devoted to sensual pleasure : SYBARITE 2 : one with sensitive and discriminating tastes especially in food or wine synonyms EPICURE, GOURMET, GOURMAND, GASTRONOME mean one who takes pleasure in eating and drinking. EPICURE implies fastidiousness and voluptuousness of taste. GOURMET implies being a connoisseur in food and drink and the discriminating enjoyment of them. GOURMAND implies a hearty appetite for good food and drink, not without discernment, but with less than a gourmet's. GASTRONOME implies that one has studied extensively the history and rituals of haute cuisine.
41.epigram	witty thought or saying, usually short	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English epigrame, from Latin epigrammat-, epigramma, from Greek, from epigraphein to write on, inscribe, from epi- + graphein to write -- more at CARVE 1 : a concise poem dealing pointedly and often satirically with a single thought or event and often ending with an ingenious turn of thought 2 : a terse, sage, or witty and often paradoxical saying 3 : epigrammatic expression - ep·i·gram·ma·tism /"e-p&-'gra-m&-"ti-z&m/ noun - ep·i·gram·ma·tist /-'gra-m&-tist/ noun
42.epilogue	short speech at conclusion of dramatic work	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English epiloge, from Middle French epilogue, from Latin epilogus, from Greek epilogos, from epilegein to say in addition, from epi- + legein to say -- more at LEGEND 1 : a concluding section that rounds out the design of a literary work 2 a : a speech often in verse addressed to the audience by an actor at the end of a play; also : the actor speaking such an epilogue b : the final scene of a play that comments on or summarizes the main action 3 : the concluding section of a musical composition : CODA
43.episodic	(of a story or play) loosely connected; made up of separate and loosely connected parts; N. episode: incident in the course of an experience	Function: adjective 1 : made up of separate especially loosely connected episodes 2 : having the form of an episode 3 : of or limited in duration or significance to a particular episode : TEMPORARY <may be able to establish whether the sea-floor spreading is continuous or episodic -- A. I. Hammond> 4 : occurring, appearing, or changing at usually irregular intervals : OCCASIONAL <an episodic illness> - ep·i·sod·i·cal·ly /-di-k(&-)lE/ adverb
44.epistemologist	philosopher who studies the nature of knowledge; N. epistemology	Function: noun Etymology: Greek epistEmE knowledge, from epistanai to understand, know, from epi- + histanai to cause to stand -- more at STAND : the study or a theory of the nature and grounds of knowledge especially with reference to its limits and validity - epis·te·mo·log·i·cal /-m&-'lä-ji-k&l/ adjective - epis·te·mo·log·i·cal·ly /-k(&-)lE/ adverb - epis·te·mol·o·gist /-'mä-l&-jist/ noun
45.epitaph	inscription in memory of a dead person (as on a tombstone)	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English epitaphe, from Middle French & Medieval Latin; Middle French, from Medieval Latin epitaphium, from Latin, funeral oration, from Greek epitaphion, from epi- + taphos tomb, funeral 1 : an inscription on or at a tomb or a grave in memory of the one buried there 2 : a brief statement commemorating or epitomizing a deceased person or something past - ep·i·taph·ial /"e-p&-'ta-fE-&l/ adjective - ep·i·taph·ic /-'ta-fik/ adjective
46.epithet	word or phrase characteristically used to describe a person or thing; descriptive phrase to characterize a person (often contemptous)	Function: noun Etymology: Latin epitheton, from Greek, from neuter of epithetos added, from epitithenai to put on, add, from epi- + tithenai to put -- more at DO 1 a : a characterizing word or phrase accompanying or occurring in place of the name of a person or thing b : a disparaging or abusive word or phrase c : the part of a taxonomic name identifying a subordinate unit within a genus 2 obsolete : EXPRESSION - ep·i·thet·ic /"e-p&-'the-tik/ or ep·i·thet·i·cal /-ti-k&l/ adjective
47.epitome	perfect example or embodiment; brief summary; Ex. epitome of good manners; V. epitomize: make an epitome of; be an epitome of; embody	Function: noun Etymology: Latin, from Greek epitomE, from epitemnein to cut short, from epi- + temnein to cut -- more at TOME 1 a : a summary of a written work b : a brief presentation or statement of something 2 : a typical or ideal example : EMBODIMENT <the British monarchy itself is the epitome of tradition -- Richard Joseph> 3 : brief or miniature form -- usually used with in - ep·i·tom·ic /"e-p&-'tä-mik/ or ep·i·tom·i·cal /-mi-k&l/ adjective
48.epoch	period of time	Function: noun Etymology: Medieval Latin epocha, from Greek epochE cessation, fixed point, from epechein to pause, hold back, from epi- + echein to hold -- more at SCHEME 1 a : an event or a time marked by an event that begins a new period or development b : a memorable event or date 2 a : an extended period of time usually characterized by a distinctive development or by a memorable series of events b : a division of geologic time less than a period and greater than an age 3 : an instant of time or a date selected as a point of reference (as in astronomy) synonym see PERIOD
49.equable	tranquil; of even calm temper; (of temperature) steady; uniform	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin aequabilis, from aequare to make level or equal, from aequus 1 : marked by lack of variation or change : UNIFORM 2 : marked by lack of noticeable, unpleasant, or extreme variation or inequality synonym see STEADY - equa·bil·i·ty /"e-kw&-'bi-l&-tE, "E-/ noun - equa·ble·ness /'e-kw&-b&l-n&s, 'E-/ noun - equa·bly /-blE/ adverb
50.equanimity	calmness of temperament; composure	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties Etymology: Latin aequanimitas, from aequo animo with even mind 1 : evenness of mind especially under stress 2 : right disposition : BALANCE synonyms EQUANIMITY, COMPOSURE, SANGFROID mean evenness of mind under stress. EQUANIMITY suggests a habit of mind that is only rarely disturbed under great strain <accepted her troubles with equanimity>. COMPOSURE implies the controlling of emotional or mental agitation by an effort of will or as a matter of habit <maintaining his composure even under hostile questioning>. SANGFROID implies great coolness and steadiness under strain <handled the situation with professional sangfroid>.
51.equestrian	rider on horseback; ADJ.	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin equestr-, equester of a horseman, from eques horseman, from equus horse -- more at EQUINE 1 a : of, relating to, or featuring horseback riding b archaic : riding on horseback : MOUNTED c : representing a person on horseback <an equestrian statue> 2 : of, relating to, or composed of knights
52.equilibrium	balance of opposing forces; balance of the mind; equanimity	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ri·ums or equi·lib·ria /-brE-&/ Etymology: Latin aequilibrium, from aequilibris being in equilibrium, from aequi- + libra weight, balance 1 a : a state of intellectual or emotional balance : POISE b : a state of adjustment between opposing or divergent influences or elements 2 : a state of balance between opposing forces or actions that is either static (as in a body acted on by forces whose resultant is zero) or dynamic (as in a reversible chemical reaction when the rates of reaction in both directions are equal) 3 : BALANCE 6a
53.equine	resembling a horse; Ex. equine face	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin equinus, from equus horse; akin to Old English eoh horse, Greek hippos, Sanskrit asva : of, relating to, or resembling a horse or the horse family - equine noun - equine·ly adverb
54.equinox	period of equal days and nights; the beginning of spring and autumn; Ex. vernal/autumnal equinox; ADJ. equinoctial	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French or Medieval Latin; Middle French equinoxe, from Medieval Latin equinoxium, alteration of Latin aequinoctium, from aequi- equi- + noct-, nox night -- more at NIGHT 1 : either of the two points on the celestial sphere where the celestial equator intersects the ecliptic 2 : either of the two times each year (as about March 21 and September 23) when the sun crosses the equator and day and night are everywhere of equal length
55.equipoise	balance; balancing force; equilibrium	Function: noun 1 : a state of equilibrium 2 : COUNTERBALANCE
56.equitable	fair; impartial; OP. inequitable	Function: adjective 1 : having or exhibiting equity : dealing fairly and equally with all concerned 2 : existing or valid in equity as distinguished from law synonym see FAIR - eq·ui·ta·bil·i·ty /"e-kw&-t&-'bi-l&-tE/ noun - eq·ui·ta·ble·ness /'e-kw&-t&-b&l-n&s/ noun - eq·ui·ta·bly /-blE/ adverb
57.equity	fairness; justice; OP. inequity	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties Etymology: Middle English equite, from Middle French equité, from Latin aequitat-, aequitas, from aequus equal, fair 1 a : justice according to natural law or right; specifically : freedom from bias or favoritism b : something that is equitable 2 a : a system of law originating in the English chancery and comprising a settled and formal body of legal and procedural rules and doctrines that supplement, aid, or override common and statute law and are designed to protect rights and enforce duties fixed by substantive law b : trial or remedial justice under or by the rules and doctrines of equity c : a body of legal doctrines and rules developed to enlarge, supplement, or override a narrow rigid system of law 3 a : a right, claim, or interest existing or valid in equity b : the money value of a property or of an interest in a property in excess of claims or liens against it c : a risk interest or ownership right in property d : the common stock of a corporation
58.equivocal	(of words or statements) ambiguous; intentionally misleading; (of behavior) questionable; OP. unequivocal	Function: adjective Etymology: Late Latin aequivocus, from aequi- equi- + voc-, vox voice -- more at VOICE 1 a : subject to two or more interpretations and usually used to mislead or confuse b : uncertain as an indication or sign 2 a : of uncertain nature or classification b : of uncertain disposition toward a person or thing : UNDECIDED c : of doubtful advantage, genuineness, or moral rectitude <equivocal behavior> synonym see OBSCURE - equiv·o·cal·i·ty /-"kwi-v&-'ka-l&-tE/ noun - equiv·o·cal·ly /-'kwi-v&-k(&-)lE/ adverb - equiv·o·cal·ness /-k&l-n&s/ noun
59.equivocate	use equivocal language to deceive people; lie; mislead; attempt to conceal the truth; N. equivocation	Function: intransitive verb Inflected Form(s): -cat·ed; -cat·ing 1 : to use equivocal language especially with intent to deceive 2 : to avoid committing oneself in what one says synonym see LIE - equiv·o·ca·tion /-"kwi-v&-'kA-sh&n/ noun - equiv·o·ca·tor /-'kwi-v&-"kA-t&r/ noun
60.erode	eat away; wear away gradually by abrasion; Ex. The sea erodes the rocks.	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): erod·ed; erod·ing Etymology: Latin erodere to eat away, from e- + rodere to gnaw -- more at RODENT transitive senses 1 : to diminish or destroy by degrees: a : to eat into or away by slow destruction of substance (as by acid, infection, or cancer) b : to wear away by the action of water, wind, or glacial ice c : to cause to deteriorate or disappear as if by eating or wearing away <inflation eroding buying power> 2 : to produce or form by eroding <glaciers erode U-shaped valleys> intransitive senses : to undergo erosion - erod·ibil·i·ty /-"rO-d&-'bi-l&-tE/ noun - erod·ible /-'rO-d&-b&l/ adjective
61.erotic	pertaining to passionate love or sexual love	Function: adjective Etymology: Greek erOtikos, from erOt-, erOs 1 : of, devoted to, or tending to arouse sexual love or desire <erotic art> 2 : strongly marked or affected by sexual desire - erotic noun - erot·i·cal·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb
62.errant	wandering (esp. in search of adventure); straying from proper moral standards; Ex. knight-errant	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English erraunt, from Middle French errant, present participle of errer to err & errer to travel, from Late Latin iterare, from Latin iter road, journey -- more at ITINERANT 1 : traveling or given to traveling <an errant knight> 2 a : straying outside the proper path or bounds <an errant calf> b : moving about aimlessly or irregularly <an errant breeze> c : deviating from a standard (as of truth or propriety) <an errant child> d : FALLIBLE - errant noun - er·rant·ly adverb
63.erratic	odd; irregular in movement or behavior; unpredictable	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French erratique, from Latin erraticus, from erratus, past participle of errare 1 a : having no fixed course : WANDERING <an erratic comet> b archaic : NOMADIC 2 : transported from an original resting place especially by a glacier <an erratic boulder> 3 a : characterized by lack of consistency, regularity, or uniformity b : deviating from what is ordinary or standard : ECCENTRIC <an erratic genius> synonym see STRANGE - er·rat·i·cal /-ti-k&l/ adjective - er·rat·i·cal·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb - er·rat·i·cism /-'a-t&-"si-z&m/ noun
64.erroneous	mistaken; wrong; incorrect	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Latin erroneus, from erron-, erro wanderer, from errare 1 : containing or characterized by error : MISTAKEN <erroneous assumptions> 2 archaic : WANDERING - er·ro·ne·ous·ly adverb - er·ro·ne·ous·ness noun
65.erudite	(of a person or book) learned; full of learning; scholarly; N. erudition	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English erudit, from Latin eruditus, from past participle of erudire to instruct, from e- + rudis rude, ignorant : possessing or displaying erudition : LEARNED <an erudite scholar> - er·u·dite·ly adverb
66.escapade	prank; flighty conduct; reckless adventure that disobeys rules	Function: noun Etymology: French, action of escaping, from Spanish escapada, from escapar to escape, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin excappare : a usually adventurous action that runs counter to approved or conventional conduct
67.eschew	avoid habitually; Ex. eschew alcoholic drinks	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French eschiuver, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German sciuhen to frighten off -- more at SHY : to avoid habitually especially on moral or practical grounds : SHUN synonym see ESCAPE - es·chew·al /-&l/ noun
68.esoteric	hard to understand; known only to the chosen few, esp. initiates; N. esoterica	Function: adjective Etymology: Late Latin esotericus, from Greek esOterikos, from esOterO, comparative of eisO, esO within, from eis into; akin to Greek en in -- more at IN 1 a : designed for or understood by the specially initiated alone <a body of esoteric legal doctrine -- B. N. Cardozo> b : requiring or exhibiting knowledge that is restricted to a small group <esoteric terminology> <esoteric strategies>; broadly : difficult to understand <esoteric subjects> 2 a : limited to a small circle <engaging in esoteric pursuits> b : PRIVATE, CONFIDENTIAL <an esoteric purpose> 3 : of special, rare, or unusual interest <esoteric building materials> - es·o·ter·i·cal·ly /-i-k(&-)lE/ adverb
69.espionage	spying	Function: noun Etymology: French espionnage, from Middle French, from espionner to spy, from espion spy, from Old Italian spione, from spia, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German spehOn to spy -- more at SPY : the practice of spying or using spies to obtain information about the plans and activities especially of a foreign government or a competing company <industrial espionage>
70.espouse	adopt; support (an idea or aim); marry; N. espousal	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): es·poused; es·pous·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French espouser, from Late Latin sponsare to betroth, from Latin sponsus betrothed -- more at SPOUSE 1 : MARRY 2 : to take up and support as a cause : become attached to synonym see ADOPT - es·pous·er noun
71.esteem	respect; value; judge; N.	Function: noun 1 archaic : WORTH, VALUE 2 archaic : OPINION, JUDGMENT 3 : the regard in which one is held; especially : high regard <the esteem we all feel for her>
72.estranged	separated; alienated; V. estrange: alienate (people in a family); N. estrangement	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): es·tranged; es·trang·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French estranger, from Medieval Latin extraneare, from Latin extraneus strange -- more at STRANGE 1 : to remove from customary environment or associations 2 : to arouse especially mutual enmity or indifference in where there had formerly been love, affection, or friendliness : ALIENATE - es·trange·ment /-'trAnj-m&nt/ noun - es·trang·er noun synonyms ESTRANGE, ALIENATE, DISAFFECT mean to cause one to break a bond of affection or loyalty. ESTRANGE implies the development of indifference or hostility with consequent separation or divorcement <his estranged wife>. ALIENATE may or may not suggest separation but always implies loss of affection or interest <managed to alienate all his coworkers>. DISAFFECT refers especially to those from whom loyalty is expected and stresses the effects (as rebellion or discontent) of alienation without actual separation <troops disaffected by hunger>.
73.ethereal	like a spirit or fairy; unearthly light; heavenly; unusually refined; Ex. She has an ethereal beauty; CF. ether: upper air	Function: adjective 1 a : of or relating to the regions beyond the earth b : CELESTIAL, HEAVENLY c : UNWORLDLY, SPIRITUAL 2 a : lacking material substance : IMMATERIAL, INTANGIBLE b : marked by unusual delicacy or refinement <this smallest, most ethereal, and daintiest of birds -- William Beebe> 3 : relating to, containing, or resembling a chemical ether - ethe·re·al·i·ty /-"thir-E-'a-l&-tE/ noun - ethe·re·al·iza·tion /-E-&-l&-'zA-sh&n/ noun - ethe·re·al·ize /-'thir-E-&-"lIz/ transitive verb - ethe·re·al·ly /-E-&-lE/ adverb - ethe·re·al·ness noun
74.ethnic	relating to races	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin ethnicus, from Greek ethnikos national, gentile, from ethnos nation, people; akin to Greek Ethos custom -- more at SIB 1 : HEATHEN 2 a : of or relating to large groups of people classed according to common racial, national, tribal, religious, linguistic, or cultural origin or background <ethnic minorities> <ethnic enclaves> b : being a member of an ethnic group c : of, relating to, or characteristic of ethnics <ethnic neighborhoods> <ethnic foods>
75.ethnology	study of humankind; study of the different races of human beings; CF. anthropology	Function: noun 1 : a science that deals with the division of human beings into races and their origin, distribution, relations, and characteristics 2 : anthropology dealing chiefly with the comparative and analytical study of cultures : CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY - eth·no·log·i·cal /"eth-n&-'lä-ji-k&l/ also eth·no·log·ic /-jik/ adjective - eth·nol·o·gist /eth-'nä-l&-jist/ noun
76.ethos	underlying character of a culture, group, etc.; character or ideas peculiar to a specific person, group, or culture; Ex. the company ethos	Function: noun Etymology: New Latin, from Greek Ethos custom, character -- more at SIB : the distinguishing character, sentiment, moral nature, or guiding beliefs of a person, group, or institution
77.etymology	study of word parts; study of the origins of words	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -gies Etymology: Middle English ethimologie, from Latin etymologia, from Greek, from etymon + -logia -logy 1 : the history of a linguistic form (as a word) shown by tracing its development since its earliest recorded occurrence in the language where it is found, by tracing its transmission from one language to another, by analyzing it into its component parts, by identifying its cognates in other languages, or by tracing it and its cognates to a common ancestral form in an ancestral language 2 : a branch of linguistics concerned with etymologies - et·y·mo·log·i·cal /-m&-'lä-ji-k&l/ adjective - et·y·mo·log·i·cal·ly /-k(&-)lE/ adverb
78.eugenic	pertaining to the improvement of race; N. eugenics: study of hereditary improvement of the human race	Function: adjective Etymology: Greek eugenEs wellborn, from eu- + -genEs born -- more at -GEN 1 : relating to or fitted for the production of good offspring 2 : of or relating to eugenics - eu·gen·i·cal·ly /-ni-k(&-)lE/ adverb
79.eulogistic	praising; full of eulogy	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -gies Etymology: Middle English euloge, from Medieval Latin eulogium, from Greek eulogia praise, from eu- + -logia -logy 1 : a commendatory formal statement or set oration 2 : high praise synonym see ENCOMIUM - eu·lo·gis·tic /"yü-l&-'jis-tik/ adjective - eu·lo·gis·ti·cal·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb