Gre Wordlist 37 : precept - propitiate

1.precept	practical rule guiding conduct; Ex. mother's precept	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Latin praeceptum, from neuter of praeceptus, past participle of praecipere to take beforehand, instruct, from prae- + capere to take -- more at HEAVE 1 : a command or principle intended especially as a general rule of action 2 : an order issued by legally constituted authority to a subordinate official synonym see LAW
2.precipice	cliff; dangerous position; Ex. on the edge of the precipice	Function: noun Etymology: Middle French, from Latin praecipitium, from praecipit-, praeceps headlong, from prae- + caput head -- more at HEAD 1 : a very steep or overhanging place 2 : a hazardous situation; broadly : BRINK
3.precipitant	something that causes a substance in a chemical solution to separate out in solid form; ħÀüÁ¦; OP. solvent	Function: adjective : PRECIPITATE - pre·cip·i·tant·ly adverb - pre·cip·i·tant·ness noun
4.precipitate	hurl downward; throw headlong; hasten; cause to happen sooner; condense and fall as rain or snow; cause (a solid substance) to be separated from a solution; ADJ. hasty; rash; premature; sudden	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): -tat·ed; -tat·ing Etymology: Latin praecipitatus, past participle of praecipitare, from praecipit-, praeceps transitive senses 1 a : to throw violently : HURL <the quandaries into which the release of nuclear energy has precipitated mankind -- A. B. Arons> b : to throw down 2 : to bring about especially abruptly <precipitate a scandal that would end with his expulsion -- John Cheever> 3 a : to cause to separate from solution or suspension b : to cause (vapor) to condense and fall or deposit intransitive senses 1 a : to fall headlong b : to fall or come suddenly into some condition 2 : to move or act precipitately 3 a : to separate from solution or suspension b : to condense from a vapor and fall as rain or snow - pre·cip·i·ta·tive /-"tA-tiv/ adjective - pre·cip·i·ta·tor /-"tA-t&r/ noun
5.precipitous	steep; overhasty; precipitate	Function: adjective Etymology: French précipiteux, from Middle French, from Latin precipitium precipice 1 : PRECIPITATE 2 2 a : very steep, perpendicular, or overhanging in rise or fall <a precipitous slope> b : having precipitous sides <a precipitous gorge> c : having a very steep ascent <a precipitous street> synonym see STEEP - pre·cip·i·tous·ly adverb - pre·cip·i·tous·ness noun
6.pr	\'ecis abstract; concise summing up of main points; concise summary of a text	Function: abbreviation pair, price, printed
7.precise	exact	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French precis, from Latin praecisus, past participle of praecidere to cut off, from prae- + caedere to cut 1 : exactly or sharply defined or stated 2 : minutely exact 3 : strictly conforming to a pattern, standard, or convention 4 : distinguished from every other <at just that precise moment> synonym see CORRECT - pre·cise·ness noun
8.preclude	make impossible; prevent; exclude; eliminate	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): pre·clud·ed; pre·clud·ing Etymology: Latin praecludere, from prae- + claudere to close -- more at CLOSE 1 archaic : CLOSE 2 : to make impossible by necessary consequence : rule out in advance - pre·clu·sion /-'klü-zh&n/ noun - pre·clu·sive /-'klü-siv, -ziv/ adjective - pre·clu·sive·ly adverb
9.precocious	advanced in development; N. precocity	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin praecoc-, praecox early ripening, precocious, from prae- + coquere to cook -- more at COOK 1 : exceptionally early in development or occurrence 2 : exhibiting mature qualities at an unusually early age - pre·co·cious·ly adverb - pre·co·cious·ness noun - pre·coc·i·ty /pri-'kä-s&-tE/ noun
10.precursor	forerunner; predecessor	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English precursoure, from Latin praecursor, from praecurrere to run before, from prae- pre- + currere to run -- more at CURRENT 1 a : one that precedes and indicates the approach of another b : PREDECESSOR 2 : a substance, cell, or cellular component from which another substance, cell, or cellular component is formed synonym see FORERUNNER - pre·cur·so·ry /-'k&rs-rE, -'k&r-s&-/ adjective
11.predator	predatory animal or bird; predatory person; creature that seizes and devours another animal; person who robs or exploits others; ADJ. predatory: living by preying on other organisms; plundering; N. predation	Function: noun 1 : one that preys, destroys, or devours 2 : an animal that lives by predation
12.predecessor	former occupant of a post	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English predecessour, from Middle French predecesseur, from Late Latin praedecessor, from Latin prae- pre- + decessor retiring governor, from decedere to depart, retire from office -- more at DECEASE 1 : one that precedes; especially : a person who has previously occupied a position or office to which another has succeeded 2 archaic : ANCESTOR
13.predetermine	determine in advance; predestine; settle or decide beforehand; influence markedly	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Late Latin praedeterminare, from Latin prae- + determinare to determine 1 a : FOREORDAIN, PREDESTINE b : to determine beforehand 2 : to impose a direction or tendency on beforehand
14.predicament	difficult situation; tricky or dangerous situation; dilemma	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin praedicamentum, from praedicare 1 : the character, status, or classification assigned by a predication; specifically : CATEGORY 1 2 : CONDITION, STATE; especially : a difficult, perplexing, or trying situation
15.predilection	preference; partiality	Function: noun Etymology: French prédilection, from Medieval Latin praediligere to love more, prefer, from Latin prae- + diligere to love -- more at DILIGENT : an established preference for something synonyms PREDILECTION, PREPOSSESSION, PREJUDICE, BIAS mean an attitude of mind that predisposes one to favor something. PREDILECTION implies a strong liking deriving from one's temperament or experience <a predilection for horror movies>. PREPOSSESSION suggests a fixed conception likely to preclude objective judgment of anything counter to it <a prepossession against technology>. PREJUDICE usually implies an unfavorable prepossession and connotes a feeling rooted in suspicion, fear, or intolerance <a mindless prejudice against the unfamiliar>. BIAS implies an unreasoned and unfair distortion of judgment in favor of or against a person or thing <the common bias against overweight people>.
16.predispose	give an inclination toward (in advance); make susceptible to; Ex. predispose people to certain cancer; N. predisposition	Function: verb transitive senses 1 : to dispose in advance <a good teacher predisposes children to learn> 2 : to make susceptible <malnutrition predisposes one to disease> intransitive senses : to bring about susceptibility synonym see INCLINE - pre·dis·po·si·tion /"prE-"dis-p&-'zi-sh&n/ noun
17.preeminent	outstanding; superior	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin praeeminent-, praeeminens, from Latin, present participle of praeeminEre to be outstanding, from prae- + eminEre to stand out -- more at EMINENT : having paramount rank, dignity, or importance : OUTSTANDING - pre·em·i·nent·ly adverb
18.preempt	prevent in advance; head off(forestall); forestall by acting first; appropriate for oneself before others; supplant; take the place of; displace; Ex. preempt any attempts; ADJ. preemptive	Function: verb Etymology: back-formation from preemption transitive senses 1 : to acquire (as land) by preemption 2 : to seize upon to the exclusion of others : take for oneself <the movement was then preempted by a lunatic fringe> 3 : to replace with something considered to be of greater value or priority : take precedence over <the program did not appear, having been preempted by a baseball game -- Robert MacNeil> 4 : to gain a commanding or preeminent place in 5 : to prevent from happening or taking place : FORESTALL, PRECLUDE intransitive senses : to make a preemptive bid in bridge - pre·emp·tor /-'em(p)-t&r/ noun
19.preen	make oneself tidy in appearance; feel self-satisfaction or pride; (of a bird) smooth or clean (feathers) with the beak; Ex. preen oneself on; CF. prune	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English prene, from Old English prEon; akin to Middle High German pfrieme awl 1 dialect chiefly British : PIN 2 dialect chiefly British : BROOCH
20.prefatory	introductory; of a preface	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin praefari 1 : of, relating to, or constituting a preface 2 : located in front
21.prehensile	capable of grasping or holding (esp. by wrapping around); Ex. prehensile tails	Function: adjective Etymology: French préhensile, from Latin prehensus, past participle of prehendere to seize -- more at GET 1 : adapted for seizing or grasping especially by wrapping around <prehensile tail> 2 : gifted with mental grasp or moral or aesthetic perception - pre·hen·sil·i·ty /(")prE-"hen-'si-l&-tE/ noun
22.prelate	church dignitary; priest of high position in the church (esp. bishop)	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English prelat, from Old French, from Medieval Latin praelatus, literally, one receiving preferment, from Latin (pp. of praeferre to prefer), from prae- + latus, past participle of ferre to carry -- more at TOLERATE, BEAR : an ecclesiastic (as a bishop or abbot) of superior rank
23.prelude	introduction; introductory performance or event; forerunner	Function: noun Etymology: Middle French, from Medieval Latin praeludium, from Latin praeludere to play beforehand, from prae- + ludere to play -- more at LUDICROUS 1 : an introductory performance, action, or event preceding and preparing for the principal or a more important matter 2 a : a musical section or movement introducing the theme or chief subject (as of a fugue or suite) or serving as an introduction to an opera or oratorio b : an opening voluntary c : a separate concert piece usually for piano or orchestra and based entirely on a short motif
24.premeditate	plan in advance; Ex. premeditated murder	Function: verb Etymology: Latin praemeditatus, past participle of praemeditari, from prae- + meditari to meditate transitive senses : to think about and revolve in the mind beforehand intransitive senses : to think, consider, or deliberate beforehand - pre·med·i·ta·tor /-"tA-t&r/ noun
25.premise	assumption; postulate; proposition upon which an argument is based	Function: noun Etymology: in sense 1, from Middle English premisse, from Middle French, from Medieval Latin praemissa, from Latin, feminine of praemissus, past participle of praemittere to place ahead, from prae- pre- + mittere to send; in other senses, from Middle English premisses, from Medieval Latin praemissa, from Latin, neuter plural of praemissus 1 a : a proposition antecedently supposed or proved as a basis of argument or inference; specifically : either of the first two propositions of a syllogism from which the conclusion is drawn b : something assumed or taken for granted : PRESUPPOSITION 2 plural : matters previously stated; specifically : the preliminary and explanatory part of a deed or of a bill in equity 3 plural [from its being identified in the premises of the deed] a : a tract of land with the buildings thereon b : a building or part of a building usually with its appurtenances (as grounds)
26.premonition	forewarning; presentiment; foreboding	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Late Latin praemonition-, praemonitio, from Latin praemonEre to warn in advance, from prae- + monEre to warn -- more at MIND 1 : previous notice or warning : FOREWARNING 2 : anticipation of an event without conscious reason : PRESENTIMENT
27.premonitory	serving to warn	Function: adjective : giving warning <a premonitory symptom> - pre·mon·i·to·ri·ly /-"mä-n&-'tOr-&-lE, -'tor-/ adverb
28.preponderance	superiority of power, quantity, etc.; V. preponderate: be greater in power, weight, or importance; ADJ. preponderant	Function: noun 1 : a superiority in weight, power, importance, or strength 2 a : a superiority or excess in number or quantity b : MAJORITY
29.preposterous	absurd; completely unreasonable; ridiculous	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin praeposterus, literally, in the wrong order, from prae- + posterus hinder, following -- more at POSTERIOR : contrary to nature, reason, or common sense : ABSURD - pre·pos·ter·ous·ly adverb - pre·pos·ter·ous·ness noun
30.prerogative	privilege; unquestionable right; CF. ask before	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, from Latin praerogativa, Roman century voting first in the comitia, privilege, from feminine of praerogativus voting first, from praerogatus, past participle of praerogare to ask for an opinion before another, from prae- + rogare to ask -- more at RIGHT 1 a : an exclusive or special right, power, or privilege: as (1) : one belonging to an office or an official body (2) : one belonging to a person, group, or class of individuals (3) : one possessed by a nation as an attribute of sovereignty b : the discretionary power inhering in the British Crown 2 : a distinctive excellence - pre·rog·a·tived /-tivd/ adjective
31.presage	foretell; be a warning or sign of; N: presentiment; foreboding; omen	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Latin praesagium, from praesagus having a foreboding, from prae- + sagus prophetic -- more at SEEK 1 : something that foreshadows or portends a future event : OMEN 2 : an intuition or feeling of what is going to happen in the future 3 archaic : PROGNOSTICATION 4 : warning or indication of the future - pre·sage·ful /pri-'sAj-f&l/ adjective
32.prescience	ability to foretell the future; knowledge of actions before they occur; ADJ. prescient	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin praescientia, from Latin praescient-, praesciens, present participle of praescire to know beforehand, from prae- + scire to know -- more at SCIENCE : foreknowledge of events: a : divine omniscience b : human anticipation of the course of events : FORESIGHT - pre·scient /-sh(E-)&nt, -s(E-)&nt/ adjective - pre·scient·ly adverb
33.presentiment	premonition; foreboding; feeling something will happen; anticipatory fear	Function: noun Etymology: French pressentiment, from Middle French, from pressentir to have a presentiment, from Latin praesentire to feel beforehand, from prae- + sentire to feel -- more at SENSE : a feeling that something will or is about to happen : PREMONITION - pre·sen·ti·men·tal /-"zen-t&-'men-t&l/ adjective
34.prestige	respect or admiration; impression produced by achievements or reputation; ADJ: causing admiration; ADJ. prestigious: having prestige	Function: noun Usage: often attributive Etymology: French, from Middle French, conjuror's trick, illusion, from Latin praestigiae, plural, conjuror's tricks, from praestringere to graze, blunt, constrict, from prae- + stringere to bind tight -- more at STRAIN 1 : standing or estimation in the eyes of people : weight or credit in general opinion 2 : commanding position in people's minds synonym see INFLUENCE - pres·tige·ful /-f&l/ adjective
35.presumptuous	going beyond what is right; excessively forward; arrogant; taking liberties	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French presumptueux, from Late Latin praesumptuosus, irregular from praesumptio : overstepping due bounds (as of propriety or courtesy) : taking liberties - pre·sump·tu·ous·ly adverb - pre·sump·tu·ous·ness noun
36.pretentious	ostentatious; showy; pompous; making unjustified claims; overambitious; Ex. pretentious films that claim to be art	Function: adjective Etymology: French prétentieux, from prétention pretension, from Medieval Latin praetention-, praetentio, from Latin praetendere 1 : characterized by pretension : as a : making usually unjustified or excessive claims (as of value or standing) <the pretentious fraud who assumes a love of culture that is alien to him -- Richard Watts> b : expressive of affected, unwarranted, or exaggerated importance, worth, or stature <pretentious language> <pretentious houses> 2 : making demands on one's skill, ability, or means : AMBITIOUS <the pretentious daring of the Green Mountain Boys in crossing the lake -- Amer. Guide Series: Vt.> synonym see SHOWY - pre·ten·tious·ly adverb - pre·ten·tious·ness noun
37.preternatural	beyond what is normal in nature; supernatural; Ex. preternatural strength/forces	Function: adjective Etymology: Medieval Latin praeternaturalis, from Latin praeter naturam beyond nature 1 : existing outside of nature 2 : exceeding what is natural or regular : EXTRAORDINARY <wits trained to preternatural acuteness by the debates -- G. L. Dickinson> 3 : inexplicable by ordinary means; especially : PSYCHIC <preternatural phenomena> - pre·ter·nat·u·ral·ly /-'na-ch&-r&-lE, 'nach-r&-, 'na-ch&r-/ adverb - pre·ter·nat·u·ral·ness /-'na-ch&-r&l-n&s, -'nach-r&l-/ noun
38.pretext	excuse	Function: noun Etymology: Latin praetextus, from praetexere to assign as a pretext, screen, extend in front, from prae- + texere to weave -- more at TECHNICAL : a purpose or motive alleged or an appearance assumed in order to cloak the real intention or state of affairs synonym see APOLOGY
39.prevail	be widespread; triumph over; gain victory; prevail on: persuade; induce; Ex. Justice has prevailed; Ex. prevail on someone to do something	Function: intransitive verb Etymology: Middle English, from Latin praevalEre, from prae- pre- + valEre to be strong -- more at WIELD 1 : to gain ascendancy through strength or superiority : TRIUMPH 2 : to be or become effective or effectual 3 : to use persuasion successfully <prevailed on him to sing> 4 : to be frequent : PREDOMINATE <the west winds that prevail in the mountains> 5 : to be or continue in use or fashion : PERSIST <a custom that still prevails>
40.prevalent	widespread; generally accepted	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin praevalent-, praevalens very powerful, from present participle of praevalEre 1 archaic : POWERFUL 2 : being in ascendancy : DOMINANT 3 : generally or widely accepted, practiced, or favored : WIDESPREAD - prevalent noun - prev·a·lent·ly adverb
41.prevaricate	lie; hide the truth (by equivocating)	Function: intransitive verb Inflected Form(s): -cat·ed; -cat·ing Etymology: Latin praevaricatus, past participle of praevaricari to act in collusion, literally, to straddle, from prae- + varicare to straddle, from varus bowlegged : to deviate from the truth : EQUIVOCATE synonym see LIE - pre·var·i·ca·tion /-"var-&-'kA-sh&n/ noun - pre·var·i·ca·tor /-'var-&-"kA-t&r/ noun
42.prey	target of a hunt; victim; V: hunt and eat as prey; victimize; Ex. Cats prey on mice.	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural prey also preys Etymology: Middle English preie, from Old French, from Latin praeda; akin to Latin prehendere to grasp, seize -- more at GET 1 archaic : SPOIL, BOOTY 2 a : an animal taken by a predator as food b : one that is helpless or unable to resist attack : VICTIM <was prey to his own appetites> 3 : the act or habit of preying
43.prim	proper to the point of affectation; very precise and formal; exceedingly proper	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): primmed; prim·ming Etymology: origin unknown 1 : to give a prim or demure expression to 2 : to dress primly
44.primogeniture	seniority by birth; state of being the first-born child; right of the eldest child (to inherit the entire property of one or both parents)	Function: noun Etymology: Late Latin primogenitura, from Latin primus + genitura birth, from genitus, past participle of gignere 1 : the state of being the firstborn of the children of the same parents 2 : an exclusive right of inheritance belonging to the eldest son
45.primordial	existing at the beginning (of time); rudimentary	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin primordialis, from Latin primordium origin, from primus first + ordiri to begin -- more at PRIME, ORDER 1 a : first created or developed : PRIMEVAL 1 b : existing in or persisting from the beginning (as of a solar system or universe) <a primordial gas cloud> c : earliest formed in the growth of an individual or organ : PRIMITIVE 2 : FUNDAMENTAL, PRIMARY <primordial human joys -- Sir Winston Churchill> - pri·mor·di·al·ly /-dE-&-lE/ adverb
46.primp	groom oneself with care; adorn oneself	Function: verb Etymology: perhaps alteration of 1prim transitive senses : to dress, adorn, or arrange in a careful or finicky manner intransitive senses : to dress or groom oneself carefully <primps for hours before a date>
47.pristine	unspoiled; remaining in a pure state; characteristic of earlier times; primitive; Ex. an old book in pristine condition	Function: adjective Etymology: L pristinus; akin to Latin prior 1 : belonging to the earliest period or state : ORIGINAL <the hypothetical pristine lunar atmosphere> 2 a : not spoiled, corrupted, or polluted (as by civilization) : PURE <a pristine forest> b : fresh and clean as or as if new <pristine hard-backs in uniform editions to fill our built-in bookcases -- Michiko Kakutani> - pris·tine·ly adverb
48.privation	lack of the basic necessities or comforts of life; hardship; want; CF. deprive	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English privacion, from Middle French privation, from Latin privation-, privatio, from privare to deprive 1 : an act or instance of depriving : DEPRIVATION 2 : the state of being deprived; especially : lack of what is needed for existence
49.privy	secret; hidden; not public; made a participant in something secret; Ex. privy chamber government; Ex. be privy to a discussion; CF. private	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English prive, from Old French privé, from Latin privatus private 1 a : PRIVATE, WITHDRAWN b : SECRET 2 : belonging or relating to a person in one's individual rather than official capacity 3 : admitted as one sharing in a secret <privy to the conspiracy> - priv·i·ly /-v&-lE/ adverb
50.probe	explore with a probe or tools; investigate; N: slender instrument used to explore a wound or body cavity; device designed to investigate an unknown region; thorough investigation; Ex. space probe	Function: noun Etymology: Medieval Latin proba examination, from Latin probare 1 : a slender medical instrument used especially for exploration (as of a wound or bodily cavity) 2 a : any of various testing devices or substances: as (1) : a pointed metal tip for making electrical contact with a circuit element being checked (2) : a usually small object that is inserted into something so as to test conditions at a given point (3) : a device used to penetrate or send back information especially from outer space or a celestial body (4) : a device (as an ultrasound generator) or a substance (as DNA in genetic research) used to obtain specific information for diagnostic or experimental purposes b : a pipe on the receiving airplane thrust into the drogue of the delivering airplane in air refueling 3 a : the action of probing b : a penetrating or critical investigation c : a tentative exploratory advance or survey
51.probity	uprightness; honesty; incorruptibility	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English probite, from Middle French probité, from Latin probitat-, probitas, from probus honest -- more at PROVE : adherence to the highest principles and ideals : UPRIGHTNESS synonym see HONESTY
52.problematic	causing a problem; open to doubt; doubtful; unsettled; questionable; Ex. Whether the arena will ever be completed is problematic.	Function: adjective 1 a : posing a problem : difficult to solve or decide b : not definite or settled : UNCERTAIN <their future remains problematic> c : open to question or debate : QUESTIONABLE 2 : expressing or supporting a possibility synonym see DOUBTFUL - prob·lem·at·i·cal·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb
53.proclivity	inclination; natural tendency (esp. towards something bad)	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties Etymology: Latin proclivitas, from proclivis sloping, prone, from pro- forward + clivus slope -- more at PRO-, DECLIVITY : an inclination or predisposition toward something; especially : a strong inherent inclination toward something objectionable synonym see LEANING
54.procrastinate	postpone; delay or put off	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): -nat·ed; -nat·ing Etymology: Latin procrastinatus, past participle of procrastinare, from pro- forward + crastinus of tomorrow, from cras tomorrow transitive senses : to put off intentionally and habitually intransitive senses : to put off intentionally the doing of something that should be done synonym see DELAY - pro·cras·ti·na·tion /-"kras-t&-'nA-sh&n/ noun - pro·cras·ti·na·tor /-'kras-t&-"nA-t&r/ noun
55.procurement	obtaining; V. procure: obtain by effort; obtain (a prostitute) for another	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): pro·cured; pro·cur·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin procurare, from Latin, to take care of, from pro- for + cura care transitive senses 1 a : to get possession of : obtain by particular care and effort b : to get and make available for promiscuous sexual intercourse 2 : BRING ABOUT, ACHIEVE intransitive senses : to procure women - pro·cur·able /-'kyur-&-b&l/ adjective - pro·cure·ment /-'kyur-m&nt/ noun
56.prod	poke (with a pointed object); stir up; urge; goad to action; N: pointed object used to prod; prodding	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): prod·ded; prod·ding Etymology: origin unknown transitive senses 1 a : to thrust a pointed instrument into : PRICK b : to incite to action : STIR 2 : to poke or stir as if with a prod intransitive senses : to urge someone on - prod·der noun
57.prodigal	wasteful; reckless with money; profuse; Ex. a mind prodigal of ideas; N. prodigality	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin prodigus, from prodigere to drive away, squander, from pro-, prod- forth + agere to drive -- more at PRO-, AGENT 1 : recklessly extravagant 2 : characterized by wasteful expenditure : LAVISH 3 : yielding abundantly : LUXURIANT -- often used with of <nature has been so prodigal of her bounty -- H. T. Buckle> synonym see PROFUSE - prod·i·gal·i·ty /"prä-d&-'ga-l&-tE/ noun - prod·i·gal·ly /'prä-di-g(&-)lE/ adverb
58.prodigious	enormous; marvelous; extraordinary; Ex. prodigious amount/memory	Function: adjective 1 a obsolete : being an omen : PORTENTOUS b archaic : resembling or befitting a prodigy : STRANGE, UNUSUAL 2 : exciting amazement or wonder 3 : extraordinary in bulk, quantity, or degree : ENORMOUS synonym see MONSTROUS - pro·di·gious·ly adverb - pro·di·gious·ness noun
59.prodigy	highly gifted child; person with exceptional talents; marvel; wonder	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -gies Etymology: Middle English, from Latin prodigium omen, monster, from pro-, prod- + -igium (akin to aio I say) -- more at ADAGE 1 a : a portentous event : OMEN b : something extraordinary or inexplicable 2 a : an extraordinary, marvelous, or unusual accomplishment, deed, or event b : a highly talented child or youth
60.profane	violate; desecrate (something holy); treat unworthily; be profane for; ADJ: secular; nonreligious; irreverent for holy things	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): pro·faned; pro·fan·ing Etymology: Middle English prophanen, from Latin profanare, from profanus 1 : to treat (something sacred) with abuse, irreverence, or contempt : DESECRATE 2 : to debase by a wrong, unworthy, or vulgar use - pro·fan·er noun
61.profligate	wasteful (of money); dissipated; wildly immoral; dissolute; N: profligate person; N. profligacy	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin profligatus, from past participle of profligare to strike down, from pro- forward, down + -fligare (akin to fligere to strike); akin to Greek phlibein to squeeze 1 : completely given up to dissipation and licentiousness 2 : wildly extravagant : PRODIGAL - prof·li·gate·ly adverb
62.profound	deep; not superficial; complete; Ex. profound thinker/remark/silence/deafness; N. profundity	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French profond deep, from Latin profundus, from pro- before + fundus bottom -- more at PRO-, BOTTOM 1 a : having intellectual depth and insight b : difficult to fathom or understand 2 a : extending far below the surface b : coming from, reaching to, or situated at a depth : DEEP-SEATED <a profound sigh> 3 a : characterized by intensity of feeling or quality b : all encompassing : COMPLETE <profound sleep> - pro·found·ly /-'faun(d)-lE/ adverb - pro·found·ness /-'faun(d)-n&s/ noun
63.profusion	great amount; plenty; overabundance; excess; lavish expenditure; Ex. profusion of choices; ADJ. profuse: plentiful; copious; giving or given abundantly; extravagant	Function: noun 1 : lavish expenditure : EXTRAVAGANCE 2 : the quality or state of being profuse 3 : great quantity : lavish display or supply <snow falling in profusion>
64.progenitor	ancestor	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French progeniteur, from Latin progenitor, from progignere to beget, from pro- forth + gignere to beget -- more at KIN 1 a : an ancestor in the direct line : FOREFATHER b : a biologically ancestral form 2 : PRECURSOR, ORIGINATOR <progenitors of socialist ideas -- Times Literary Supplement>
65.progeny	children; offspring; descendants	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -nies Etymology: Middle English progenie, from Middle French, from Latin progenies, from progignere 1 a : DESCENDANTS, CHILDREN b : offspring of animals or plants 2 : OUTCOME, PRODUCT 3 : a body of followers, disciples, or successors
66.prognosis	forecasted course of a disease; prediction; CF. prognostic	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural prog·no·ses /-"sEz/ Etymology: Late Latin, from Greek prognOsis, literally, foreknowledge, from progignOskein to know before, from pro- + gignOskein to know -- more at KNOW 1 : the prospect of recovery as anticipated from the usual course of disease or peculiarities of the case 2 : FORECAST, PROGNOSTICATION
67.prognosticate	predict (according to present indications)	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): -cat·ed; -cat·ing 1 : to foretell from signs or symptoms : PREDICT 2 : PRESAGE synonym see FORETELL - prog·nos·ti·ca·tive /-"kA-tiv/ adjective - prog·nos·ti·ca·tor /-"kA-t&r/ noun
68.prohibitive	so high as to prohibit purchase or use; tending to prevent the purchase or use of something; prohibiting; inclined to prevent or forbid; Ex. prohibitive tax	Function: adjective 1 : tending to prohibit or restrain 2 : tending to preclude use or purchase <prohibitive costs> 3 : almost certain to perform as predicted <a prohibitive favorite> - pro·hib·i·tive·ly adverb - pro·hib·i·tive·ness noun
69.projectile	missile; fired or thrown object (such as stone or bullet)	Function: noun 1 : a body projected by external force and continuing in motion by its own inertia; especially : a missile for a weapon (as a firearm) 2 : a self-propelling weapon (as a rocket)
70.proletarian	member of the working class; blue collar guy; N. proletariat: working class (who have to work for wages)	Function: noun Etymology: Latin proletarius, from proles progeny, from pro- forth + -oles (akin to alere to nourish) -- more at OLD : a member of the proletariat - proletarian adjective
71.proliferate	grow rapidly (in numbers); spread; multiply; N. proliferation	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): -at·ed; -at·ing Etymology: back-formation from proliferation, from French prolifération, from proliférer to proliferate, from prolifère reproducing freely, from Latin proles + -fer -ferous intransitive senses 1 : to grow by rapid production of new parts, cells, buds, or offspring 2 : to increase in number as if by proliferating : MULTIPLY transitive senses : to cause to grow by proliferating - pro·lif·er·a·tion /-"li-f&-'rA-sh&n/ noun - pro·lif·er·a·tive /-'li-f&-"rA-tiv, -f(&-)r&-tiv/ adjective
72.prolific	producing offspring or fruit in abundance; fertile; fecund; abundantly fruitful; producing abundant works; Ex. prolific writer	Function: adjective Etymology: French prolifique, from Latin proles 1 : producing young or fruit especially freely : FRUITFUL 2 archaic : causing abundant growth, generation, or reproduction 3 : marked by abundant inventiveness or productivity <a prolific composer> synonym see FERTILE - pro·lif·i·ca·cy /-'li-fi-k&-sE/ noun - pro·lif·i·cal·ly /-fi-k(&-)lE/ adverb - pro·lif·ic·ness /-fik-n&s/ noun
73.prolixity	tedious wordiness; verbosity; ADJ. prolix: wordy; verbose; diffuse	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French prolixe, from Latin prolixus extended, from pro- forward + liquEre to be fluid -- more at LIQUID 1 : unduly prolonged or drawn out : too long 2 : marked by or using an excess of words synonym see WORDY - pro·lix·i·ty /prO-'lik-s&-tE/ noun - pro·lix·ly adverb
74.prologue	introduction (to a poem or play)	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English prolog, from Middle French prologue, from Latin prologus preface to a play, from Greek prologos part of a Greek play preceding the entry of the chorus, from pro- before + legein to speak -- more at PRO-, LEGEND 1 : the preface or introduction to a literary work 2 a : a speech often in verse addressed to the audience by an actor at the beginning of a play b : the actor speaking such a prologue 3 : an introductory or preceding event or development
75.prolong	lengthen; extend; draw out	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French prolonguer, from Late Latin prolongare, from Latin pro- forward + longus long 1 : to lengthen in time : CONTINUE 2 : to lengthen in extent, scope, or range synonym see EXTEND - pro·long·er /-'lo[ng]-&r/ noun
76.prominent	protruding(sticking out); conspicuous; notable; eminent	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English promynent, from Latin prominent-, prominens, from present participle of prominEre to jut forward, from pro- forward + -minEre (akin to mont-, mons mountain) -- more at MOUNT 1 : standing out or projecting beyond a surface or line : PROTUBERANT 2 a : readily noticeable : CONSPICUOUS b : widely and popularly known : LEADING synonym see NOTICEABLE - prom·i·nent·ly adverb
77.promiscuous	mixed indiscriminately; indiscriminate; not choosing carefully; indiscriminate in the choice of sexual partners; irregular, particularly sexually; Ex. promiscuous life/girl; N. promiscuity	Function: adjective Etymology: Latin promiscuus, from pro- forth + miscEre to mix -- more at PRO-, MIX 1 : composed of all sorts of persons or things 2 : not restricted to one class, sort, or person : INDISCRIMINATE <education... cheapened through the promiscuous distribution of diplomas -- Norman Cousins> 3 : not restricted to one sexual partner 4 : CASUAL, IRREGULAR <promiscuous eating habits> - pro·mis·cu·ous·ly adverb - pro·mis·cu·ous·ness noun
78.promontory	headland	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ries Etymology: Latin promunturium, promonturium; probably akin to prominEre to jut forth -- more at PROMINENT 1 a : a high point of land or rock projecting into a body of water b : a prominent mass of land overlooking or projecting into a lowland 2 : a bodily prominence
79.promote	advance in rank; advance; help to flourish; advocate; help actively in forming; publicize or popularize; Ex. Milk promotes health; Ex. promote a match/bill; Ex. promote a new product	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): pro·mot·ed; pro·mot·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Latin promotus, past participle of promovEre, literally, to move forward, from pro- forward + movEre to move 1 a : to advance in station, rank, or honor : RAISE b : to change (a pawn) into a piece in chess by moving to the eighth rank c : to advance (a student) from one grade to the next higher grade 2 a : to contribute to the growth or prosperity of : FURTHER <promote international understanding> b : to help bring (as an enterprise) into being : LAUNCH c : to present (merchandise) for buyer acceptance through advertising, publicity, or discounting 3 slang : to get possession of by doubtful means or by ingenuity synonym see ADVANCE - pro·mot·abil·i·ty /-"mO-t&-'bi-l&-tE/ noun - pro·mot·able /-'mO-t&-b&l/ adjective
80.prompt	cause; urge; provoke; provide a cue (for an actor); ADJ: done without delay; done at the right time; punctual; on time; N: reminder or cue	Function: transitive verb Etymology: Middle English, from Medieval Latin promptare, from Latin promptus prompt 1 : to move to action : INCITE 2 : to assist (one acting or reciting) by suggesting or saying the next words of something forgotten or imperfectly learned : CUE 3 : to serve as the inciting cause of - prompt·er noun
81.promulgate	announce; proclaim a doctrine or law; make known by official publication	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): -gat·ed; -gat·ing Etymology: Latin promulgatus, past participle of promulgare, from pro- forward + -mulgare (probably akin to mulgEre to milk, extract) -- more at EMULSION 1 : to make known by open declaration : PROCLAIM 2 a : to make known or public the terms of (a proposed law) b : to put (a law) into action or force synonym see DECLARE - pro·mul·ga·tion /"prä-m&l-'gA-sh&n; "prO-(")m&l-, (")prO-"/ noun - pro·mul·ga·tor /'prä-m&l-"gA-t&r; prO-'m&l-, pr&-', 'prO-(")/ noun
82.prone	inclined to; likely to (suffer); prostrate; lying with the front downward; Ex. prone to disease/make mistakes; Ex. accident-prone	Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Latin pronus bent forward, tending; akin to Latin pro forward -- more at FOR 1 : having a tendency or inclination : being likely <prone to forget names> <accident-prone> 2 a : having the front or ventral surface downward b : lying flat or prostrate - prone adverb - prone·ly adverb - prone·ness /'prOn-n&s/ noun synonyms PRONE, SUPINE, PROSTRATE, RECUMBENT mean lying down. PRONE implies a position with the front of the body turned toward the supporting surface <push-ups require a prone position>. SUPINE implies lying on one's back and suggests inertness or abjectness <lying supine on the couch>. PROSTRATE implies lying full-length as in submission, defeat, or physical collapse <a runner fell prostrate at the finish line>. RECUMBENT implies the posture of one sleeping or resting <a patient comfortably recumbent in a hospital bed>. synonym see in addition LIABLE
83.propagate	increase in number by producing young; multiply; spread; Ex. Most plants propagate by seed; Ex. newspaper propagating their ideas	Function: verb Inflected Form(s): -gat·ed; -gat·ing Etymology: Latin propagatus, past participle of propagare to set slips, propagate, from propages slip, offspring, from pro- before + pangere to fasten -- more at PRO-, PACT transitive senses 1 : to cause to continue or increase by sexual or asexual reproduction 2 : to pass along to offspring 3 a : to cause to spread out and affect a greater number or greater area : EXTEND b : to foster growing knowledge of, familiarity with, or acceptance of (as an idea or belief) : PUBLICIZE c : to transmit (as sound or light) through a medium intransitive senses 1 : to multiply sexually or asexually 2 : INCREASE, EXTEND 3 : to travel through space or a material -- used of wave energy (as light, sound, or radio waves) - prop·a·ga·ble /'prä-p&-g&-b&l/ adjective - prop·a·ga·tive /-"gA-tiv/ adjective - prop·a·ga·tor /-"gA-t&r/ noun
84.propellant	(propellent) substance which propels or drives forward (such as an explosive charge or a rocket fuel)	Function: adjective : capable of propelling
85.propensity	natural inclination	Function: noun Inflected Form(s): plural -ties : an often intense natural inclination or preference synonym see LEANING
86.prophetic	of a prophet or prophecy; having to do with predicting the future; N. prophecy; V. prophesy; N. prophet	Function: adjective 1 : of, relating to, or characteristic of a prophet or prophecy 2 : foretelling events : PREDICTIVE - pro·phet·i·cal·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb
87.prophylactic	used to prevent disease; N: something prophylactic; condom; N. prophylaxis: prevention of disease	Function: adjective Etymology: Greek prophylaktikos, from prophylassein to be on guard, from pro- before + phylassein to guard, from phylak-, phylax guard 1 : guarding from or preventing disease 2 : tending to prevent or ward off : PREVENTIVE - pro·phy·lac·ti·cal·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb
88.propinquity	nearness (in space or relationship); proximity; kinship	Function: noun Etymology: Middle English propinquite, from Latin propinquitat-, propinquitas kinship, proximity, from propinquus near, akin, from prope near -- more at APPROACH 1 : nearness of blood : KINSHIP 2 : nearness in place or time : PROXIMITY
89.propitiate	appease; conciliate; make peaceful; ADJ. propitiatory	Function: transitive verb Inflected Form(s): -at·ed; -at·ing Etymology: Latin propitiatus, past participle of propitiare, from propitius propitious : to gain or regain the favor or goodwill of : APPEASE, CONCILIATE synonym see PACIFY - pro·pi·ti·a·tor /-"A-t&r/ noun