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feet

Abbreviation for feet: What is it and how is it used in a sentence?

What Is The Abbreviation For Feet? Feet Noun The plural form for foot There is one common abbreviation for feet which is the international standard. Ft Usually, there is a space between the abbreviation and the number its measuring. For

WC - Words That Start with Z_V2 WITH IMAGE

Words That Start With Z: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with Z [2-15 letter words]   15-Letter Words zoogeographical - Adjective | Pertaining to the field of study that examines the geographic distribution of animals (zoogeography) zoophysiologist - Noun | An expert who studies the way

pen

Insure vs ensure: What’s the difference?

What is the difference between insure and ensure? Insure and ensure are very similar words and used often enough to think they are used synonymously. While both words carry the meaning of guaranteeing somebody of something, the correct usage of

Gray or grey

Gray or grey: What’s the difference?

How to remember gray vs. grey Grammar students use a mnemonic device to learn when to use grey or gray. When spelling gray, use the A to stand for America, where it is commonly spelled as such. When spelling grey,

Everyone vs Every One

Everyone vs every one: What’s the difference?

Understanding the difference between the word everyone and the phrase every one is difficult because when spoken aloud, they both use the same letters and sound nearly identical. Don’t be fooled, though: everyone and every one does not mean the

Toward vs towards

Toward vs towards: What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between toward and towards? The confusion surrounding the usage of toward and towards involves three primary editorial preferences: the geography of writing (i.e., British vs. American English), the Associated Press Stylebook, and formal academic writing. For casual

Whose-vs.-who’s

Whose vs. who’s: Which one should you use and when?

What is the difference between whose and who’s? Anyone who grew up watching television shows like “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” or “Who’s Afraid of the Dark?” has likely taken for granted how whose and who’s are used similarly, but

Letter K

Words That Start With K: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with K [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words kenogenetically - Adverb | In the manner of embryonic or larval adaptations that are not retained in the adult form (also spelled caenogenetically, cainogenetically, cainogenetically, and cenogenetically) kindheartedness -

captain

Abbreviation For Captain: What is it and how is it used in a sentence?

What Is The Abbreviation For Captain? There are various ways to abbreviate the word captain, and each will depend on the rank. For example; Coast and Navy ranks 0-6 CAPT (Upper case) Army CPT (Upper case)     Airforce and Marine Corps

lay down

Lay vs. lie: What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between lay vs. lie? Learning the difference between lay and lie is complicated because both irregular verbs are synonymous with each other in specific contexts. For instance, if we look up the definition of lay in a

letter Y

Words That Start With Y: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

13-Letter Words yachtsmanship - Noun | The ability to yacht yesterevening - Noun | The previous evening yestermorning - Noun | The previous morning yuppification - Noun | The transformation of an area or neighborhood so that it appeals to

Words That Start With A: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Words That Start With A: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with A [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words achondroplastic - Adjective | Pertaining to a type of dwarfism, achondroplasia, resulting from an unusually slow conversion of cartiledge to bone anticholesterol - Adjective | Cholesterol-lowering antepenultimate

letter J

Words That Start With J: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with J [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words jurisprudential - Adjective | Pertaining to the science of philosophy of law justifiableness - Noun | The state or quality of being excusable juxtaglomerular - Adjective |

amongst

Among vs. amongst?

What is the difference between among and amongst? The debate between over among vs. amongst has existed within the English language for centuries, starting from Old and Middle English to present. Modern English speakers use the two terms interchangeably, but

letter U

Words That Start With U: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with U [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words ultimobranchial - Adjective | Pertaining to a hollow vesicle that is formed from the fourth pharyngeal pouch or may represent a fifth pharyngeal pouch unadulteratedly - Adverb

letter N

Words That Start With N: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with N [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words neurotoxicology - Noun | The study of poisons that impact the nervous system and their effects nonbiographical - Adjective | Not pertaining to the true history of

too sign

To vs. too?

What is the difference between to and too? To and too are some of the most common words used in the English language, but they are also two of the most confused. Both terms are prepositions, which are the little

Letter S

Words That Start With S: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with S [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words semiterrestrial - Adjective | Living in both land and water suburbanization - Noun | The process of becoming more conventional or suburban superfluousness - Noun | The

Letter O

Words That Start With O: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with O [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words omnidirectional - Adjective | Involving all directions opinionatedness - Noun | The quality of holding stubbornly to one's own ideas and opinions osteopathically - Adverb | By

letter C

Words That Start With C: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with C [3-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words contraclockwise - Adjective | In the direction opposite to the turning hands of a clock (also spelled counterclockwise) cosmopolitanism - Noun | The quality or state of

letter T

Words That Start With T: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with T [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words technologically - Adverb | In a way that relates to science and industry telephotography - Noun | The photography of distant objects with a telephoto lens thirtysomething

letter P

Words That Start With P: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with P [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words paleogeographic - Adjective | Pertaining to the geography of ancient times phototypography - Noun | A printing process that involves the use of photography postapocalyptic - Adjective

letter R

Words That Start With R: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with R [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words reconstructible - Adjective | Capable of being built or assembled again retinoblastomas - Noun | Malignant tumors of the retina that occur during early childhood retrovirologist -

national

Abbreviation for National: What is it and how is it used?

The word national can be abbreviated as Nat’l. Natl. Ntl. Nat. NTL However, of the five options the first two, Nat’l. and Natl. are the most commonly used. The word national has been abbreviated using different types of abbreviations to

billion

The Abbreviation for Billion: What Is It and How Is It Used?

How Do You Abbreviate Billion? Billion Noun Billion refers to 1,000,000,000, the number one followed by nine zeros. Don't confuse it with a million (six zeros) or a thousand (three zeros).  There are various ways of abbreviating billion: B Bn

bright building

The Abbreviation for Apartment: What Is It and How Is It Used?

What Does Apartment Mean? Dictionary.com defines apartment as:  "noun a room or a group of related rooms, among similar sets in one building, designed for use as a dwelling. a building containing or made up of such rooms. any separated

center

The Abbreviation for Center: What Is It and How Is It Used?

The Definition of the Word Center is both a noun and a verb. Center  Noun According to the Lexico.com, the word center means a point that’s located an equal distance from every point on the circumference of a circle or

continued sign

The Abbreviation for Continued: What Is It and How Is It Used?

Contraction Versus Truncation In the case of continued, cont’d is a contraction and cont. is a truncation of the word. A truncation is a form of abbreviation that shortens the word to represent the whole word, while a contraction is

number

The Abbreviation for Number: What Is It and How Is It Used?

What Does Number Mean? According to Dictionary.com, the definition of number is: Number [nuhm-ber]noun●      a numeral or group of numerals.●      the sum, total, count, or aggregate of a collection of units, or the like:A number of

mountain

The Abbreviation for Mountain: What is it and how is it used?

What Does Mountain Mean? According to Dictionary.com, the word mountain can be defined as the following. Mountain [ moun-tn ]noun 1. a natural elevation of the earth's surface rising more or less abruptly to a summit and attaining an altitude greater

sergeant

The Abbreviation for Sergeant: What Is It and How Is It Used?

What Is the Abbreviation? Sgt Noun The word sergeant is commonly abbreviated as Sgt, capitalized, and used as a title before a person’s name. Staff Sergeant is abbreviated as SSgt and, in some cases, SSG. Here are a few different

clock

The Abbreviation for Pounds: What Is It and How to Use It?

What Is the Abbreviation of Pounds? Pounds Noun The abbreviation of pounds depends on its respective meaning.  Pound Weight lb Sterling Pound £ The word pound, when used as a verb, does not have an abbreviation.  In Latin and medieval

friendly lady

The Abbreviation for Madame: What Is It and How Is It Used?

What Is the Abbreviation? The abbreviation for madame is Mme. It’s worth noting that madam is the more common version the word among English speakers, while madame is the French spelling. Either way, both versions of this word can be

police

The Abbreviation for Officer: What Is It and How Is It Used?

Abbreviations for Officer The common abbreviations for the word include: ·   OFC ·   Ofc ·   Off ·   OFF ·   OFFR These abbreviations often appear as titles, so they must appear before the name of the

juice

The Abbreviation for Gallon: What Is It and How Is It Used?

What Does Gallon Mean? Dictionary.com defines the word gallon as: Gallon [ gal-uh n ]  noun a common unit of capacity in English-speaking countries, equal to four quarts, the U.S. standard gallon being equal to 231 cubic inches (3.7853 liters), and

firetruck

The Abbreviation for Lieutenant: What is it and how is it used?

Additional Abbreviations for the U.S. Army Pay GradeTitleAbbreviationE-1PrivatePVTE-2Private 2PV2E-3Private First ClassPFCE-4SpecialistSPCE-4CorporalCPLE-5SergeantSGTE-6Staff SergeantSSGE-7Sergeant First ClassSFCE-8Master SergeantMSGE-8First Sergeant1SGE-9Sergeant MajorSGME-9Command Sergeant MajorCSME-9 SpecialSergeant Major of the ArmySMAW-1Warrant OfficerWO1W-2Chief Warrant Officer 2CW2W-3Chief Warrant Officer 3CW3W-4Chief Warrant Officer 4CW4W-5Chief Warrant Officer 5CW5O-1Second Lieutenant2LTO-2First Lieutenant1LTO-3CaptainCPTO-4MajorMAJO-5Lieutenant ColonelLTCO-6ColonelCOLO-7Brigadier

“My Apology” or “My Apologies”?

What is the difference between “my apology” and “my apologies”? Have you ever wondered whether it’s more grammatically correct to say “my apology” and “my apologies”? The good news is that either phrase is grammatically correct. But there are circumstances

Yay or nay?

What is the difference between yay or nay vs. yea or nay? People often wonder how to use the term ‘yay or nay,’ and whether it’s interchangeable with ‘yea or nay.’ But when it comes down to researching the answers,

Into vs. in to?

What is the difference between into vs. in to? Into is one of the most common terms in the English Language, but it’s also one of the easiest to misuse. The phrase “in to" is pronounced nearly identical to into,

Advice vs. advise?

What is the difference between advice vs. advise? Advise and advice are commonly confused words because they share similar definitions, spelling, and, often, pronunciations. But it's important to know that we use advice and advise in different parts of speech. 

Former vs. latter?

What is the difference between former vs. latter? When describing events or people of the past, it’s common to use words like former and latter to provide more detail about which came first. But no matter how long you’ve used

Lead vs. led?

What is the difference between lead vs. led? Lead and led are commonly confused words because the word lead carries two different meanings, and because lead and led are homophones (sometimes). The two ways to understand lead involves whether we’re

Photoshoot vs. photo shoot?

What is the difference between photoshoot and photo shoot? If you live outside of the United Kingdom, you probably use the terms photoshoot and photo shoot to describe the same thing: an event where a photographer takes a series of

Separate vs. seperate?

What is the difference between separate vs. seperate? No matter how literate you are, there are certain spelling errors we continuously struggle with, such as separate vs. seperate. We’d love to tell you that there’s a difference between the two

Fiancé vs. fiancée?

What is the difference between fiancé vs. fiancée? The foreign words fiancé and fiancée are straight-forward when it comes to the English language because we use them to discuss one topic: marriage. Either term is gendered and adapted from the

What Does Bar None Mean?

What Does Bar None Mean? To understand the meaning of this idiomatic phrase, we must first look to one very specific definition of the word bar. In American English, bar can mean many different things and is used as many

A vs. an?

What is the difference between a vs. an? One of the most common grammar errors is mixing up indefinite articles a and an. Each article proceeds singular, noncount nouns to convey relationships between words in a clause. But the way

What Does Blood Is Thicker Than Water Mean?

What Does Blood Is Thicker Than Water Mean? This phrase is used to express the idea that family ties are more important than other social ties, i.e. friendships or romantic relationships; that family bonds, or those connections you have with

Lets vs let’s?

What is the difference between lets vs. let’s? Lets and let’s share a pronunciation because they have the same word, let, and a letter “s” at the end. But if you’re new to learning English grammar, you should know that

Theatre vs. theater?

What is the difference between theatre vs. theater? If you’re watching a film, do you go to the movie theatre or movie theater? Do the words theatre and theater have different meanings for live performances? Understanding why the two terms

What Does Once Bitten, Twice Shy Mean?

What Does Once Bitten, Twice Shy Mean? You might expect this expression to be used when someone has been bitten, say by a dog or another animal. But that’s not the case. You see, as an idiomatic expression, this phrase

Aid vs. aide?

Aid vs. aide?

What is the difference between aid vs aide? It’s easy to see why aid and aide are commonly confused words. Either term describes the concept of assistance, whether it’s helping someone in need or contributing toward a cause. But although

Is “Each” Singular or Plural?

Indefinite Pronouns Each is an indefinite pronoun. Indefinite pronouns are uncountable, and in that way they’re different from most other pronouns. With the pronoun they, you know that a concrete number of people are being referenced. The pronoun I refers

Flier or flyer?

What is the difference between flier vs. flyer? The English words flier and flyer are simply alternate spellings of the same noun, but as an adjective, flyer can also have different meanings. The predominant way to use flier or flyer

Clip vs magazine?

What is the difference between clip vs magazine? If you’re writing about guns for any reason, it’s important to learn the difference between clips and magazines. Writers that misuse the terms clip and magazine risk communicating to their audience that

Apart vs. a part?

What is the difference between a part vs. apart? English speakers pronounce the word apart identically to the phrase “a part,” but these homophones actually consist of different meanings and grammatical functions. In fact, the phrase “a part” can also

Past Perfect Tense: How Does It Work?

What About Irregular Verbs? With common irregular verbs, you'll need to know the past participle in order to conjugate the past perfect tense. As long as you know the past participle of the main verb, it will be easy to

How Many Words Are in Harry Potter?

Word Counts By Title Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone / Sorcerer's Stone — 77,325 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets — 84,799 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban — 106,821 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

What Does PS Mean?

The Definition of PS and Examples of PS P.S. is an abbreviation of the term postscript, which comes from the Latin post scriptum, sometimes written as postscriptum. This Latin word/phrase translates to “written after,” and that gives us a clue

Alright vs. all right?

What is the difference between alright vs. all right? The word alright is an adjective, adverb, and exclamation that simply combines “all right” into one word. English speakers say “alright" in place of expressions like, "yes," "okay," "for sure," or

What Does Beating a Dead Horse Mean?

What Does Beating a Dead Horse Mean? When you hear this expression spoken or see it written, it’s describing the act of putting in effort or focus on something that’s impossible or no longer relevant or important. In other words,

Thru vs. through?

What is the difference between thru and through? Have you ever received a text message where someone wrote “thru” instead of “through”? If so, you may have wondered if “thru" is the same thing as "through," or if "thru" a

What Does Goody Two-Shoes Mean?

What Does Goody Two-Shoes Mean? The phrase goody two-shoes describes a person who is exceedingly good, someone who is extremely well-behaved. At least, that’s part of it. You see, goody two-shoes is most often used as a synonym for the

Canceled vs. cancelled?

What is the difference between canceled vs. cancelled? We’re all familiar with the word canceled. Homebodies love it, and type-A's hates it. But for everyone else, it's just another excuse to debate over English grammar.  The difference between canceled and

Afterward or afterwards?

What is the difference between afterward or afterwards? The words afterward and afterwards have the same definition, and we use them as adverbs to modify other adjectives, verbs, phrases, or adverbs in a sentence. The main difference between the two

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Learnt vs learned?

What is the difference between learnt vs. learned ? If you're learning English for the first time, the easiest grammar lesson to learn is that if a word has two spellings, it's likely because of American English vs. British English.

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Words That Start With D: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with D [3-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words daguerreotypist - Noun | A person who processes an early photograph made on a silver surface sensitized by iodine decarbonization - Noun | The process of removing

Supper vs dinner?

What is the difference between supper and dinner? Most people look forward to certain meals throughout the day, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Depending on where you live, you might use terms like brunch, high tea, or siu yeh.

Cannot vs can not?

What is the difference between cannot and can not? If someone is unable to do something, do you write “cannot” or “can not”? As it turns, you can use both! However, the word “cannot” is more common for English speakers

Words That Start With F: Your Scrabble Cheat Sheet

Here are some words that start with F [2-15 letter words] 15-Letter Words familiarization - Noun | The process of becoming acquainted flirtatiousness - Noun | The quality of being coquettish forthcomingness - Noun | The quality of being candid

Defence vs Defense: What’s the difference?

COMMON QUESTIONS Some of the common questions that these words may give rise to are as follows: – Do these words have different functions or different meanings in a sentence?Defence vs Defense - are they the variants of the same

Ageing vs. aging?

What is the difference between ageing and aging? If you’re discussing someone that’s getting older, are they ageing or aging? As it turns out, both words are simply alternate spellings of the same word.  The main difference between aging and

What Does Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Mean?

What Does Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Mean? Although the expression originally did have to do with furry canines (more below), that’s no longer the case. When you hear or see it used today, it means “to ignore a situation or

Incase or in case?

What is the difference between incase and “in case”? Grammar students often ask The Word Counter if they should use “incase” or “in case,” but the answer to this question depends on what you’re trying to convey.  English writers confuse

Port vs starboard?

What is the difference between port and starboard? There are several unambiguous references to ship areas and duties, whether it’s a wharf, rudder, or “paying the Devil.” But unless you're accustomed to life on the sea, incorporating nautical terminology into

Is vs are?

What is the difference between is and are? There are several confusing verbs in the English Language, but none are more tricky than “to be,” which contains eight different verb forms. “Is” and “are” are simply two of these forms,

Disc vs. disk?

What is the difference between disc and disk? When it comes to the English Language, there’s a lot of room for confusion. This is especially true for words like “disc” and “disk,” which carry different meanings in the tech industry. 

What Does Have Your Cake and Eat It Too Mean?

What Does Have Your Cake and Eat It Too Mean? The saying have your cake and eat it, too is used to express that when there are two desirable but mutually exclusive or contradictory options, you can’t have both at

Inquire vs enquire?

What is the difference between inquire and enquire? If you’re asking for information, are you inquiring or enquiring? As it turns out, you’re doing both! Unlike most verb variants, the words inquire and enquire mostly represent the same action. However,

Does “As Well As” Need a Comma?

Is This a Simple Comparison? Ask yourself the question, "Is this a simple comparison?" If the answer is yes, you've sidestepped a lot of heartache. When you use the phase "as well as" to compare two things, you won't need

What Does Chip on Your Shoulder Mean?

What Does Chip on Your Shoulder Mean? If you have a chip on your shoulder, you have a bad attitude and get angry easily. This is because you feel like the world has wronged you in some way. You may

Desert vs dessert?

What is the difference between desert and dessert? When people read the word “desert,” the first image that typically comes to mind is a vast, bleak, and unbearably hot landscape. If so, the mental image represents a desert biome (noun),

Fourty or forty?

What is the difference between fourty and forty? When it comes to spelling numbers, one of the most common mistakes we see involves the number 40. You know–– the amount that’s ten more than 30 and ten less than 50?

Blonde vs. blond?

What is the difference between blonde and blond? Golden. Honey. Sandy. Platinum. When it comes to describing fair hair, English speakers have a plethora of adjectives at their disposal. But what each of these terms implies is the color "blond”

When to Use a Comma Before “Which”

Are You Asking a Question? When you use the word "which" as part of a question, the word could be considered an interrogative pronoun. You're asking someone to specify one or more items from a definite set.  Examples: Which flavor

How to Write a Shakespearean Sonnet

What Are Shakespearean Sonnets About? Shakespeare's sonnets covered romantic subjects. Under that umbrella, Shakespeare tackled a huge range of nuanced topics. The British Library notes, "...Their main concern is ‘love’, but they also reflect upon time, change, aging, lust, absence,

Premier vs. premiere?

What is the difference between premier and premiere? If you attend the first showing of a movie, is it a premier or a premiere? Whether you’re a native English speaker or new to English grammar, these two words are very

What Does the Jig Is Up Mean?

What Does the Jig Is Up Mean? As you might have guessed from the example above, the idiomatic English phrase the jig is up means that one’s trick or deception has been discovered, and thus won’t be allowed to continue,

Good vs. well?

What is the difference between good and well? Did you know that statements like “I’m doing good” are grammatically incorrect? If not, you’re not alone. Even the most seasoned writers make this common mistake due to ever-changing dialects. In general,

Invoke vs. evoke?

What is the difference between invoke and evoke? The verbs invoke and evoke are commonly confused words with very subtle differences. Even the most practiced writers are likely to confuse “evoke” for “invoke,” although there are fewer instances when “evoke”

Period inside or outside parentheses?

Do periods go inside or outside of parentheses? Periods and parentheses are two of the most basic punctuation marks to master for the English language. We use periods to mark the end of a sentence and parentheses to insert additional

Whilst vs. while?

What is the difference between whilst and while? English speakers have used the words while and whilst for hundreds of years. But when it comes to Modern English, many writers are unsure of when to use either term. The word

The Plural of Elk: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Does the Word Elk Mean? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of elk is

The Plural of Family: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Is Families Plural or Singular? To better understand a word and how it should be used, it is important to define it. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the word family is defined as “the basic unit in society consisting

The Plural of Prognosis: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Does Prognosis Mean? To understand a word and how to use it properly, you must first define it. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of prognosis is “the prospect of recovery as anticipated from the usual course

The Plural of Sky: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Why Is There a Plural for Sky? The sky is a very large amount of space. When talking about the great extent of the sky, it is appropriate to use the plural version of sky, which is skies. Often times,

The Plural of Squid: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Do you Call a Group of Squid? Usually, the word squid is used as the plural for squid. However, if you are referring to several different species of squid, then it would make sense to use the word squids. 

The Plural of Aircraft: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Meaning of the Word Aircraft? The first step in really understanding a word or learning how to use it properly is to understand its definition.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of aircraft is “a

The Plural of MR: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Is it Correct to Say Mr. First Name? The short answer to this question is yes, it is, in fact, correct to say (or write), Mr. “Firstname,” but only in certain contexts.  Usually, the prefix is used to address someone

The Plural of Cul De Sac: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Does it Mean: “Cul De Sac”? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of cul-de-sac

The Plural of Money: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Which Type of Noun is Money? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the word money is defined

The Plural of Mango: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What is the plural form of mango? The Merriam Webster Dictionary describes a mango as, “a tropical usually large ovoid or oblong fruit with a firm yellowish-red skin, hard central stone, and juicy aromatic pulp; also : an evergreen tree

The Plural of Echo: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Is Echo Singular or Plural? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of echo is “the

The Plural of Fish: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is The Definition Of The Word Curriculum As Merriam-Webster phrases it: NounAn aquatic animal - usually used in combinationStarfishCuttlefishAny of numerous cold-blooded strictly aquatic craniate vertebrates that include the boy fishes and usually the cartilaginous and jawless fishes and

The Plural of Hoof: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is Plural for Hoof To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of hoof is “a

The Past Tense of Wear: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Wear? The word wear is defined in the English language as: Transitive verb  to bear or have on the personwore a coatto use habitually for clothing, adornment, or assistancewears a size 10wear glassesto

The Past Tense of Sneak: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Past Tense of the Word Sneak? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the verb

The Past Tense of Cast: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Cast? The word cast is defined as: Intransitive verb  to throw.to receive form in a mold.to calculate or add.to conjecture; forecast.(of hounds) to search an area for scent:The setter cast, but found no

The Past Tense of Steal: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Steal? The English verb steal is defined as: Transitive verb  to take (the property of another or others) without permission or right, especially secretly or by force:A pickpocket stole his watch.to appropriate (ideas,

The Past Tense of Light: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Light? The word light is defined as: Adjective light having light or illumination; bright; well-lighted:the lightest room in the entire house.pale, whitish, or not deep or dark in color:a light blue.(of coffee or

The Past Tense of Sweat: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Sweat? The verb sweat is defined as: Intransitive verb  to excrete moisture in visible quantities through the openings of the sweat glands: perspireto labor or exert oneself so as to cause perspirationto emit

The Past Tense of Buy: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What is the Definition of the Word Buy? The word buy is defined as: Transitive Verb  to acquire possession, ownership, or rights to the use or services of by payment especially of money: purchasebuy a carbuying stock in the companybought

The Past Tense of Shake: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Shake? The word shake is defined as: Intransitive verb  to move or sway with short, quick, irregular vibratory movements.to tremble with emotion, cold, etc.to become dislodged and fall (usually followed by off or

The Past Tense of Breed: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Breed? The word breed is defined as: Intransitive verb  to produce offspring by sexual union places where mosquitoes breedCopulate, mateto propagate animals or plants Transitive verb  to produce (offspring) by hatching or gestationyet every

The Past Tense of Dream: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Future Tense of Dream? To first understand an English verb, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the verb dream

The Past Tense of Swing: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What Is the Definition of the Word Swing? The word swing is defined as: to cause to move vigorously through a wide arc or circle swing an axto cause to sway to and froto cause to turn on an axisto cause

The Past Tense of Fly: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What is the Definition of the Irregular Verb Fly? The word fly is defined as: Intransitive verb form: to move in or pass through the air with wingsbees flying around the hiveto move through the air or before the wind

The Past Tense of Dive: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

What is the Definition of the Word Dive? The word dive is defined by merriam-webster as: The word dive is defined as: to plunge into water intentionally and especially headfirstto execute a divediving into the pool from the highest platformsubmergethe

The Past Tense of Read: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Why Is the Past Tense of Read Read? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the English verb

The Past Tense of Shine: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Is Shine or Shone the Past Tense of Shine? To first understand a word, its history, and how to use it properly, it is important to first define what it actually means.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the word

Adaptor vs Adapter: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Adaptor The first thing you should do when seeking to better understand a word is to define it. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the word adaptor is defined as, “one that adapts, or a device for connecting

Restrictive vs Nonrestrictive Clauses: What’s The Difference?

“Defining” Clauses English Grammar is a complicated concept, and maybe the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word clause is a mental image of the jolly fat man in a red suit who delivers presents on

Engrained or Ingrained: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Ingrained To better understand a word, it is important to first define it. According to the Merriam Webster English Dictionary, the word ingrained (ɪnˈɡreɪnd) means, “forming a part of the essence or inmost being” or, “worked into the

Guarantee vs. Guaranty: What’s The Difference?

Definitions of Guarantee and Guaranty When trying to understand a word, it is important to first learn its definition before trying to incorporate it into your vocabulary.  Otherwise, you end up sounding pretty dumb when you try to use it

Aisle vs. Isle: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Aisle To better understand a word it is important to look at its definition. The definition of aisle according to Merriam Webster is, “ a passage (as in a theater or railroad passenger car) separating sections of seats”

Labor vs Labour: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Labor A good place to start when understanding a word is with its definition. The dictionary defines labor as “expenditure of physical or mental effort especially when difficult or compulsory” or “the physical process of childbirth, such as

Behaviour or Behavior: What’s The Difference?

Meaning of the Word Behavior According to the Merriam-Webster English dictionary the definition of behavior is: The particular way in which someone conducts themselves or behaves. A. The manner of conducting oneself, demeanourB. Anything that an organism does involving action and

Online vs. On-Line: What’s The Difference?

What Is the Definition of the Words Online and On-Line? According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, the word online is an adverb and is defined as: operating under the direct control of, or connected to, a main computer.connected by computer to one

Patients vs Patience: What’s The Difference?

What Is the Definition of the Words Patients and Patience? The Definition of Patient Noun patienta person who is under medical care or is receiving medical attention in the healthcare field.A person or thing that undergoes some action.Archaic. a sufferer

Oriented vs. Orientated: What’s The Difference?

Oriented vs. Orientated? Have you perhaps been curious about whether oriented or orientated was the right word to describe an aligning position or get used to your new surroundings in a new city or environment? This article will give you

Analog vs. Analogue: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Analog To gain a better understanding of a word, you must first look at its definition. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, analog is defined as, “of, relating to, or being a mechanism or device in which information

Council vs. Counsel: What’s The Difference?

Counsel vs. Council Have you ever been confused about the different spellings between the word counsel and council in English? Or perhaps you are just curious and want to learn more to ensure you are using these easily confused words

Bad vs Badly: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Bad and Badly The first step in trying to understand how to use a word properly is to learn what its definition actually is.  According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the word bad means “failing to reach an

Councilor vs. Counselor: What’s The Difference?

What Is the Definition of the Word Counselor? a person who counsels; adviser.mental health professionals, social workers, family therapists, etc.a faculty member who advises students on personal and academic problems, career choices, and the like.school counselor, guidance counseloran assistant at

Favorite vs. Favourite: What’s The Difference?

Definition of Favorite A good place to start when understanding a word is with its definition. The dictionary defines favorite as “preferred before all others of the same kind” or “one that is treated or regarded with special favor or

Either vs. Neither: What’s The Difference?

Definitions of Either and Neither According to Merriam Webster, both either and neither are a set of words that can become confusing when learning English. Using them in the correct context can take a bit of practice and in conversation,

Eldest vs. Oldest: What’s the Difference?

Etymology Both eld- and old- forms come from the same root word, eald. The Online Etymology Dictionary confirms, the Anglian ald and the West Saxon/Kentish eald originated with the Proto-Germanic althaz, which means "grown up, adult." Althaz derived from Proto-Indo-European.

In Spite vs. Despite: What’s the Difference?

Etymology The Proto-Indo-European root spek- developed into the Latin word despectus, the Online Etymology Dictionary explains. Despectus, meaning "a looking down on, scorn, contempt," evolved into the Old French despit, "scorn, contempt." By 1300, English speakers had adopted the noun

Center vs. Centre: What’s the Difference?

Etymology According to the Online Etymology Dictionary (OED), the word "center" originates from the Proto-Indo-European root kent-, meaning "to prick." That evolved into kentron, Greek for "sharp point, goad, sting of a wasp." With the popularization of the drafting compass,

What Does a Stitch in Time Saves Nine Mean?

What Does a Stitch in Time Saves Nine Mean? Put simply, the proverbial expression a stitch in time saves nine means that it’s better to fix a problem right away, when it’s small and manageable, than to wait until it

Nerve Wracking vs. Nerve Racking: What’s the Difference?

Etymology According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the adjective "nerve-racking" first appeared in 1812, as a compound of two preexisting words "nerve" and "rack".  "Nerve-wracking" dates from 1867, as a combination of "nerve" and "wrack". Nerve is a noun derived

The Meaning of Ara Ara: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase ara ara mean? Linguaholic states that there are three different words in the Japanese language that are all pronounced ara ara. In its non-exclamatory form, the Japanese word ara ara approximately translates to the English word,

Ax vs. axe?

What is the difference between ax and axe? The words axe and ax have different spellings, but they share the same pronunciation and meaning. For instance, we use an ax to split wood (noun), or we might ax down a

Bunny vs. rabbit?

What is the difference between bunny and rabbit? Many English speakers grow-up with an awareness of the Easter bunny or the cartoon character Bugs Bunny, but did you know neither character is a “bunny” at all? That’s right— these beloved

Clearer or more clear?

What is the difference between clearer and more clear? The adjective clear describes something as transparent, easy to understand, or uncluttered. But if something is "especially clear" when compared to another, should we use "clearer” or “more clear”?  Is clearer

Dialog vs. dialogue?

What is the difference between dialog and dialogue? The main difference between dialog and dialogue involves national spelling differences. “Dialogue” is the preferred spelling for Canadian and British English, while American English uses “dialog” and “dialogue” interchangeably. The same usage

Skillset vs. skill set?

What is the difference between skillset and skill set? The New Oxford American Dictionary defines the noun “skill set” as “a person’s range of skills or abilities,” whereas Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary states it’s a “set of skills” that apply to professional

Dreamed vs. dreamt?

What is the difference between dreamed and dreamt? Dreamed and dreamt are both past tense forms of the verb dream. The main difference between the two is that “dreamt” is the irregular past tense form, while “dreamed” is the regular

Hanged vs. hung?

What is the difference between hanged and hung? The words hanged and hung are past tense forms of the verb hang, yet they are different words with separate meanings. So what makes them different? Mostly death, actually.  What-to-know for hanged

Offence vs. offense?

What is the difference between offence and offense? The words offence and offense are different spellings of the same noun. The biggest difference between the terms is that “offence” is the preferred spelling for British English, while American English spells

Persons vs. People?

What is the difference between persons and people? If you’re talking about a group of people, should you use “persons” or “people”? Both terms are a plural form of person, but English speakers don’t always use them for the same

Setup vs. set up?

What is the difference between “setup” and “set up”? Learning the difference between “setup” and “set up” doesn’t need to be fussy, as their differences are pretty clear-cut. Regardless of how you use these terms, they typically involve the same

What Does Scratch Paper Mean?

What Does Scratch Paper Mean? According to Merriam-Webster, scratch paper is defined as “paper that may be used for casual writing.” What does “casual writing” mean? Think of it as brainstorming; casual writing is the notes and ideas that you

Realize vs. Realise: What’s the Difference?

Etymology According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the word "realize" originated with the Latin word res, meaning  "property, goods, matter, thing, affair." By Late Latin, realis meant "actual." Next, the word made its way into the Old French language with

Spelt or spelled?

What is the difference between spelt and spelled ? The words spelt and spelled are past participles of the verb spell, so English speakers use either term for the past tense. The primary difference between the two words involves definition,

Whether or wether?

What is the difference between whether and wether? The words whether and wether sound the same, but they have different meanings, spellings, and word forms: Wether is a noun that references castrated male animals, such as sheep, goats, and rams. Whether

Traveling vs. Travelling: What’s the Difference?

Etymology According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the word "travel" probably comes from the vulgar Latin word tripaliare, "to torture." That tells you how much people enjoyed journeys back in those days! By the 12th century, Old French adopted the

Whoa or woah?

What is the difference between whoa and woah? Whether you’re a fan of Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, Beavis and Butthead, or Nelly Furtado’s first album, “Whoa, Nelly!”–– you’re probably confused about the proper spelling of whoa and woah. So,

Aluminum vs. aluminium?

What is the difference between aluminum and aluminium? Have you ever studied the periodic table of elements and wondered why aluminum doesn’t end with an -ium like magnesium, chromium, or lithium? In fact, there are 71 atomic elements with names

Carmel vs. caramel?

What is the difference between carmel and caramel? In the United States, it’s completely normal to pronounce caramel as “karh-mel or “care-a-mul.” In fact, most people would understand if you wrote caramel as “carmel,” even though these terms have nothing

Anyone vs. any one?

What is the difference between anyone and any one? The words “any one” and “anyone” may look similar, but they do not mean the same thing. The main difference is that “anyone” is an indefinite pronoun while “any one” is

Flys or flies?

What is the difference between flys and flies? Like many English terms, the meaning of “fly” depends on its word form. Something can be “fly” (adjective), “fly” in the air (verb), or be a little “fly” insect (noun). But if

Yours vs. your’s?

What is the difference between yours and your’s? The use of “your’s” as a possessive pronoun is a sure way to drive your English teachers insane. The common misspelling of “yours” likely occurs because we use apostrophes with other types

The Meaning of Bruv: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word bruv mean? The internet slang term “bruv” is an abbreviation for the word “brother,” according to Cyber Definitions. This is most commonly used in the United Kingdom and South London, but has become popularized all around

The Meaning of Much Obliged: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the definition of much obliged? Much obliged, according to Collins Dictionary, is a British English phrase used to express gratitude or thanks. The phrase is usually formal or old fashioned, an can also be written as “I am

The Meaning of Old Habits Die Hard: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the idiom old habits die hard mean? The figure of speech old habits die hard means that it is difficult for one to stop doing the things that they have been doing for a long time or have

The Meaning of Up In The Air: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase up in the air mean? Collins English Dictionary defines the phrase “up in the air” as meaning something that is still undecided or uncertain, or an unsettled matter that has not been completely planned, settled, or

The Meaning of WBK: What It Is and How To Use It

What does wbk stand for? While the wbk abbreviation has many meanings in many different languages, its most common use is the internet slang phrase “we been knew.” According to StayHipp, the meaning of the extended phrase “we been knew,”

The Meaning of Dire Straits: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase dire straits mean? Merriam-Webster English Dictionary and other dictionary apps state that the phrase “in dire straits” means that someone is in a very bad or difficult situation. The Free Dictionary states that one variation of

The Meaning of ASAP: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the definition of ASAP? According to Dictionary and Word Sense English Dictionary, the abbreviation ASAP, also abbreviated A.S.A.P., stands for “as soon as possible.” This adverb phrase can either be pronounced as an initialism, in which each letter

The Meaning of In Turn: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the meaning of the phrase in turn? According to Cambridge Dictionary, Fine Dictionary, and other dictionary apps, the phrase in turn is a phrasal verb that can either mean “because of” or “one after the other.” This phrase

The Meaning of Mint Condition: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase mint condition mean? According to Merriam-Webster, The Free Dictionary, and other English dictionary apps, the term mint condition means that something is in perfect condition, or is in a state of being like new. This term

Between vs. among?

What is the difference between among and between? Among and between are English prepositions that connect the relationships between one or many sentence objects. The difference is that among references undefined, collective relationships, while between describes one-to-one relationships for multiple,

Catalog vs. catalogue?

What is the difference between catalog and catalogue? Remember the days of Sears mail-order magazines? If not, that’s probably because you were born after the advent of online shopping. Before the golden age of online marketing, retail stores sold their

Supine vs. prone?

What is the difference between supine and prone? Supine and prone are unique terms with opposite meanings. If we're lying down with our face to the ground, it's called the "prone” or “prostrate" position. But if our face is up

Cue vs. queue?

What is the difference between cue and queue? Cue and queue are simple words to use, but the differences between American and British English often blur the lines between standard and nonstandard English. No matter where you live, the word

The Meaning of On the Contrary: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase on the contrary mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and other dictionary apps, the English language phrase on the contrary is used to imply that something that has just been said is not true, that the

The Meaning of Mija: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the Spanish word mija mean? According to Dictionary.com, the Spanish word mija is a friendly and informal term used by Spanish speakers and writers as a colloquial term of endearment for friends and romantic partners. It can also

The Meaning of Reprisal: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the definition of reprisal? According to Dictionary, the word reprisal, pronounced “rɪˈpraɪz ə l” has numerous different meanings. The first meaning is used in regards to warfare, and means retaliation or fighting back against an enemy as payback

The Meaning of SAS: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the abbreviation SAS stand for? According to Collins Dictionary, SAS stands for Special Air Service. This is a group of specially trained British Soldiers in the British Army who are assigned to work on clandestine operations, difficult or

The Meaning of Soz: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the slang word soz mean? According to Cambridge English Dictionary, Urban Dictionary and other dictionary apps, the term soz is an informal abbreviation for the word sorry. This is often used in writing and is used to refer

The Meaning of Under the Weather: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase under the weather mean? According to Collins Dictionary, Cambridge Dictionary, and other dictionary apps, the phrase under the weather means not feeling well, or feeling slightly ill. This English idiom may be used to describe someone

The Meaning of Snog: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the definition of snog? According to Vocabulary, Lexico, and other English dictionary apps, the term snog is a chiefly British slang term that means to kiss, to cuddle, or to make out. People might use this term to

The Meaning of Stir Crazy: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the definition of stir-crazy? According to Merriam-Webster, the phrase “stir-crazy” or “stir crazy” (pronounced stur krae-zee or ˈstɜrˌkreɪ zi) is a British English adjective that means one is distraught or has been driven insane by prolonged confinement. This

The Meaning of BTS: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the acronym BTS stand for? According to Cyber Definitions and Urban Dictionary, the abbreviation BTS most commonly stands for “The Bangtan Boys.” This is a 7-member Korean pop, or K-Pop band based out of Seoul, South Korea. BTS

The Meaning of IG: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the acronym IG stand for? According to Dictionary and Urban Dictionary, the internet slang term IG can either stand for “I guess” or “Instagram.” This term is often used on social media or in text messaging. If this

The Meaning of Quite: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word quite mean? According to Cambridge English Language Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, and many other dictionary apps, the word quite, pronounced “kwaɪt,” is an adverb that can mean rather or completely. Quite is an intensifier that

The Meaning of Redundant: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word redundant mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, Cambridge Dictionary, and other dictionary apps, the word redundant, pronounced “rɪˈdʌndənt”  is an adjective that means superfluous, containing excess, exceeding what is normal, or profuse. British people also

Analyses vs. analysis?

What is the difference between analyses and analysis? If you’re conducting a highly detailed examination of something, you're completing an analysis. The word analysis is a singular noun, so if you're running more than one analysis, the correct plural form

Firsthand or first-hand?

What is the difference between firsthand and first-hand? Did you witness something with your own eyes or ears? Are you explaining something from personal experience? If so, you’re experiencing something first hand or providing a firsthand account. But if you

Burnt vs. burned?

What is the difference between burnt and burned? Burnt and burned are both past tense forms of the verb burn. The main difference between the two words depends on whether you’re using American English or British English.  Burnt vs. burned

Mold vs. mould?

What is the difference between mold and mould? You know the dark, filmy material that grows in damp spaces? That, my friend, is called mold. But if you live in England or Australia, there’s a good chance it’s spelled mould

The Meaning of Endeavour: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word endeavour mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary and Dictionary, the word endeavour, spelled endeavor (pronounced ɪnˈdɛvə r) in American English, can be used as either a verb to refer to exerting oneself to accomplish or

The Meaning of BBC: What It Is and How To Use It

What does BBC stand for? According to BBC, the abbreviation BBC stands for British Broadcasting Company. This is a public service broadcaster in the UK, and was established by Royal Charter. This service provides 10 different national television channels, various

The Meaning of Amid: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word amid mean? According to Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, the word amid, pronounced “əˈmɪd” is used as an adverb and preposition to mean in the middle or, or during the course of. This is very

The Meaning of Botched: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word botched mean? According to Cambridge Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, the word botched (pronounced bɒtʃt) is an adjective that is used to describe a job that has been done poorly. This is often used in

The Meaning of CF: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the abbreviation CF stand for? According to Cambridge English Dictionary and Scientist See Squirrel, the term CF stands for the Latin word “conferre.” This term is used in writing, when the author wants someone to make a comparison

The Meaning of Fringe: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word fringe mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary and Cambridge English Dictionary, the word fringe (pronounced frɪndʒ) has a few different meanings. First, it can be used as a noun to describe some ornamental border, decorative

The Meaning of Inadvertently: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word inadvertent mean? According to Vocabulary, Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, and Cambridge Dictionary, the word inadvertently is an adverb that means in a way that is not intentional. The noun form of the word is inadvertency. Try

The Meaning of Justified: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word justified mean? According to Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, the word justified is an adjective that is usually used to mean to be just or right, as well as warranted. This is commonly used to

The Meaning of MCM: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the abbreviation MCM stand for? According to Dictionary and Cyber Definitions, the term MCM is an internet slang term that stands for Man Crush Monday. This term is often used on social media sites like Instagram, Snapchat, and

The Meaning of Intriguing: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word intriguing mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary and Cambridge English Dictionary, the word intriguing (pronounced ɪnˈtriːɡɪŋ) is an adjective that describes something that is very interesting, usually because it is unusual or mysterious.  This word

The Meaning of Out of Pocket: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the term out of pocket mean? According to Urban Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, and Quick and Dirty Tips, the term out of pocket has three different potential meanings. First, the term out of pocket, or out-of-pocket, can

The Meaning of Nonetheless: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word nonetheless mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary and Cambridge English Dictionary, the word nonetheless (pronounced ˌnʌnðəˈles) is an adverb that means despite something that has been said or done. Try using this word of the

The Meaning of P.S.: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the abbreviation P.S. stand for? According to Grammarly and Cambridge English Dictionary, the term P.S., also abbreviated as PS, stand for postscript. This is used to refer to a written addendum or an additional thought that is added

Artefact vs. artifact?

What is the difference between artefact and artifact? You don’t need to be a master of orthography to understand the difference between artefact and artifact. They are simply different spellings of the same word, a noun we use to reference

Ton vs. tonne?

What is the difference between ton and tonne? The words ton and tonne are units of measurement for mass (and a lot of it). But while these terms have the same pronunciation and similar spellings, we cannot use them interchangeably. 

Imbedded vs. embedded?

What is the difference between imbedded and embedded? “Embedded” and “imbedded” are commonly confused words, but not for the reason you’d expect. No, they are not homophones or even American vs. British spelling variants. They are simply different spellings of

Titled vs. entitled?

What is the difference between titled and entitled? The verb entitle primarily means ‘to give a right, privilege, or title (i.e., authority) to do or receive something.’ For example, authors are entitled to write their own stories, and editors are

The Meaning of Tit for Tat: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase tit for tat mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary and Collins English Dictionary, the phrase tit for tat, sometimes represented as tit-for-tat, is some action in which someone takes revenge on someone else in an

The Meaning of Barely: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word barely mean? According to Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word barely is an adverb that means only just, or almost not. This word is often used to describe something that has

The Meaning of Conundrum: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word conundrum mean? According to Cambridge English Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, the word conundrum (pronounced kəˈnʌndrəm) is a noun that refers to some problem that is difficult to deal with, as in a dilemma, or

The Meaning of Conceded: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word conceded mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the verb conceded is the past tense of the verb concede (pronunciation of concede: ​​​kənˈsid) which means to give in, relinquish, to accept as

The Meaning of BTW: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the acronym BTW stand for? According to Cyber Definitions and Urban Dictionary, the acronym BTW stands for by the way. This slang term is used in SMS text messages via mobile phones, on instant messaging chat services, and

The Meaning of Cop Out: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the term cop out mean? According to Cambridge Dictionary of the English Language and Merriam-Webster Unabridged English Dictionary, as well as other dictionaries like Collins English Dictionary and American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the verb cop

The Meaning of Superfluous: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word superfluous mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language as well as other dictionaries like American Heritage and Collins English dictionary, the word superfluous is an adjective that means unnecessary, not needed, or

The Meaning of EST: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the acronym EST stand for? According to Your Dictionary and MacMillan Dictionary, The abbreviation EST can either stand for Eastern Standard Time, estimated, or established. Eastern Standard Time refers to Greenwich Mean Time, or GMT -5:00. You might

The Meaning of Busking: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word busking mean? According to Cambridge Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, busking is the act of entertaining in a public place for donations. A busker is one who does this, and the infinitive

The Meaning of Counterpart: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word counterpart mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language and other dictionaries like Collins English Dictionary and American Heritage,  The word counterpart is a noun that can refer to one of two corresponding

The Meaning of Harbinger: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word harbinger mean? According to the Merriam-Webster unabridged dictionary of the English language as well as other dictionaries like Collins English dictionary and American Heritage, the word Harbinger is a noun that refers to something that foreshadows

The Meaning of Disparaging: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word disparaging mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language as well as other dictionaries like American Heritage and Collins English Dictionary, the word disparaging is an adjective that describes something that belittles the

The Meaning of Heist: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word heist mean? According to Dictionary and Cambridge Dictionary of the English Language, the word heist means a crime in which things are taken illegally, often that are stolen violently from a place or person. For example,

The Meaning of Invincible: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word invincible mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word invincible (pronunciation: in-vin-ci-ble) is an adjective that means unable to be defeated, or incapable of being conquered or overcome. Many things can

The Meaning of Precocious: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word precocious mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language as well as American Heritage and Collins English Dictionary, the word precocious is an adjective that means exceptionally early in development or occurrence, or

What Is a Clause? Definition, Examples of Clauses in Sentences

At its most stripped-down, a clause can be two words:  I do. He walks.She jumps.  Clauses can be longer, too: When the languorous night falls on the mountains... The bowling team, half of the yoga instructors, and the high school kids ate

Predicate Adjective: Definition, Examples of Predicate Adjectives

She is blue.  In the example above, the word "blue" functions as a predicate adjective. The subject of the sentence is "she," and the predicate consists of the phrase "is blue." Since the word "blue" is an adjective and shows

What Is a Preposition? Definition, Examples, and List of Prepositions

Back when I was in elementary school, the teacher taught us that the preposition is the word you’d use to describe your relationship to a cloud. Are you over the cloud, under the cloud, in the cloud, or around the

Apologize vs. apologise?

What is the difference between apologize and apologise? English "apologize” and “apologise” are different spellings of the same word (depending on where you live, that is). Writers in the United States and Canada use “apologize” with the letter z, while

Calvary vs. cavalry?

What is the difference between calvary and cavalry? Ah, the English language. So many words and opportunities to epically confuse the meaning of one term with another. As is the case with the nouns “cavalry” and “calvary,” which not only

The Meaning of Tacky: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word tacky mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, The word tacky (pronunciation: ˈtækɪ) is an adjective that can either describe something that is sticky to the touch, or something that is marked by

The Meaning of Whilst: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word whilst mean? According to Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the English word whilst (pronunciation: ) is an adverb that means during or while. The word whilst is used in both America and parts of

The Meaning of Wrath: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word wrath mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word wrath is a noun that refers to strong vengeful anger, indignation, or a punishment for an offense or crime. This word is

The Meaning of Huh: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word huh mean? According to Cambridge English Dictionary, Urban Dictionary, and Cyber Definitions, the word huh is an interjection or exclamation that is either used to show that you have not heard or understood something, as a

The Meaning of Vibe: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word vibe mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and Daily Rap Facts, the word vibe refers to a distinctive emotional aura of a person, place or thing. Vibe is short for vibrations, and a person, place or

The Meaning of Aggregate: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word aggregate mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and other sources like American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language and Merriam-Webster, the word aggregate can be used as an adjective, noun, or verb. As an adjective,

The Meaning of COB: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the abbreviation COB stand for? According to Hub Spot, the term COB stands for close of business. This refers to the end of financial markets in EST, which define the US business hours. This is used in business

The Meaning of Chav: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word chav mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word chav is used in England as a slang term for a young person who has a lack

The Meaning of Cognizant: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word cognizant mean? According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language and Collins English Dictionary, the word cognizant is an adjective that refers to someone who is aware, perceptive, and has knowledge of a situation,

The Meaning of Ascension: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word ascension mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language as well as other dictionaries like Collins English Dictionary and American Heritage, the word ascension is a noun that refers to the act or

The Meaning of Arrested Development: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the term arrested development mean? According to Psychology Today, Collins English Dictionary and Emotional Intelligence Training, the term arrested development refers to the stoppage of physical development, emotional development or mental development before reaching adulthood. This abnormal condition

The Meaning of Cheeky: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word cheeky mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language and other sources such as Collins English Dictionary or American Heritage, the word cheeky is an informal adjective that means impudent, boldly rude, or

The Meaning of ASL: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the acronym ASL stand for? According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the acronym ASL most commonly stands for American Sign Language. This natural language is used by the American deaf community in the United

The Meaning of Chuffed: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word chuffed mean? According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary of the English Language and Cambridge English Dictionary as well as other sources like Collins English Dictionary, The Random House Unabridged Dictionary, or the OED, the word chuffed is an

The Meaning of Wasp: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word wasp mean? According to Urban Dictionary and Collins English Dictionary, the acronym WASP stands for White Anglo-Saxon Protestant. This is a slang term that refers to a Christian, white upper middle class person. These people usually

The Meaning of Subsequent: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word subsequent mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, American Heritage, and the Collins English Dictionary, the word subsequent is an adjective that means following in time, order, or place. Many different things

The Meaning of Sus: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word sus mean? According to Merriam-Webster and Urban Dictionary, the word sus is a slang word that is used as an abbreviation or shortening of suspect or suspicious. It can also refer to a certain genus of

The Meaning of Bloke: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word bloke mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word bloke means a good man or common man. This can also refer to a person who behaves

The Meaning of Endeavors: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word endeavors mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language as well as sources like Collins English Dictionary and American Heritage, endeavors can either be the plural form of the noun endeavor or it

The Meaning of Tedious: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word tedious mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, and other English dictionaries, the word tedious is an adjective that means boring, frustrating, and often time consuming. The noun

The Meaning of Dessert: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word dessert mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, desert is the last course of a meal. This sweet course of a dinner is usually served at the end of a meal. The word dessert has two syllables

The Meaning of Lead: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word lead mean? According to Dictionary and Your Dictionary, the word lead has a plethora of different meanings. First, the word lead can be used as a verb, meaning to conduct or escort, usually by holding and

The Meaning of Arbitrary: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word arbitrary mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary  of the English Language, the word arbitrary is an adjective that means done without preference or on impulse and not out of necessity.

The Meaning of Pegged: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word pegged mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, and Word Sense, the word pegged is the past tense form of the verb peg. Peg has a plethora of different

The Meaning of Ensure: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word ensure mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word ensure is a verb in both American English and British English that means to make sure or

The Meaning of Countenance: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word countenance mean? According to the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language and Collins English Dictionary, the word countenance can be used as either a verb or a noun. As a noun, this word refers

The Meaning of Noble: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word noble mean? According to Merriam-Webster and other sources like the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language and Collins English Dictionary, the word noble has a variety of different meanings. First, it can be used

The Meaning of Purge: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word purge mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word purge is a verb that means to rid a space or thing of something or someone that

The Meaning of Cheers: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word cheers mean? According to Evan Evans Tours, the word cheers is an interjection that can mean almost any type of greeting in British English. It can be used to mean hello or goodbye to strangers or

The Meaning of Quip: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word quip mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the word quip is a noun and a verb that means to make an amusing or clever remark, or to

The Meaning of Dynasty: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word dynasty mean? According to the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language as well as other sources like Collins English Dictionary and American Heritage, the word dynasty is a noun that refers to some succession of

The Meaning of Ignorance is Bliss: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the phrase ignorance is bliss mean? According to Your Dictionary and other sources like the American Heritage Dictionary of the English language, the idiom ignorance is bliss means that sometimes it is better to not know the truth

The Meaning of Dark Horse: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the term dark horse mean? According to Merriam-Webster, Collins English Dictionary, and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the term dark horse is a noun and idiomatic expression that refers to a little known or

The Meaning of curb: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word curb mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word curb can be used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, the word curb

The Meaning of Doubt: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word doubt mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the word doubt can be used as a noun or a verb to refer to a lack of conviction, state

The Meaning of Privy: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word privy mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, Your Dictionary, Merriam-Webster and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word privy is an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, the word privy means

The Meaning of Via: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word via mean? According to dictionaries like the Collins English Dictionary and American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word via is a preposition that means by way of or by means of. This word

The Meaning of Idiocracy: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word idiocracy mean? According to Dictionary, Urban Dictionary, and Definitions (America's Largest Dictionary), the term idiocracy or idiotocracy is a noun and a disparaging term for a society that is made up of idiots, as well as

The Meaning of Knock on Wood: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the term knock on wood mean? According to The Conversation, Cambridge English Dictionary and The Idioms, the phrase knock on wood is a superstitious term that is said by a person in order to avoid bad luck. This

The Meaning of Bummer: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word bummer mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the word bummer is a noun that refers to something that is unpleasant or annoying like a bad experience, unpleasant

The Meaning of Contention: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word contention mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word contention refers to a line of argument or a strong disagreement. Contention is three syllables - con-tent-ion,

The Meaning of Hoping: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word hoping mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, American Heritage and the opinion of Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word hoping is the present progressive tense of the verb hope. The word hope is

The Meaning of FCFS: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word FCFS mean? According to Cyber Definitions, the term FCFS stands for first come, first served. The FCFS definitions is a slang term that means customers will be helped in the order they arrive in the ready

The Meaning of Either: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word either mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word either is a conjunction that means one of two alternatives. This is also considered a quantifier or

The Meaning of Notion: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word notion mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the word notion is a noun with a few different meanings. First, the word notion can mean a vague idea,

The Meaning of Snuck: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word snuck mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, and the American Heritage Unabridged  Dictionary of the English Language, the word snuck is the past participle of sneak. The past tense form of sneak means having moved furtively

The Meaning of Foster: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word foster mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word foster is a verb that means to nurture or nourish to help something develop. This is commonly

The Meaning of Placate: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word placate mean? According to Collins English Dictionary and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the word placate is a verb that means to pacify, appease, or soothing hurt feelings or feelings of bitterness.

The Meaning of Patronize: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word patronize mean? According to Merriam-Webster, the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, and Collins English Dictionary, the word patronize is a verb that has a few different definitions. First, the word patronize can be used

The Meaning of Post: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word post mean? American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language and Collins English Dictionary state that the word post can be used in many different ways. It can be used as a transitive verb that means to

Engrained or ingrained?

What is the difference between engrained and ingrained? When it comes to the spelling of engrained or ingrained, most people assume one form is more common in American English while the other is preferred in “British English” (standard English outside

Dual vs. duel?

What is the difference between dual and duel? Dual and duel are homophones, meaning they have similar spellings and pronunciations but different meanings:  Duel is a verb or noun that references an arranged competition between two parties. Dual is an adjective

Adjective vs. adverb?

What is the difference between an adjective and an adverb? Adjectives and adverbs are descriptive words that we use for different parts of speech:  Adjectives modify nouns or pronouns.Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, phrases, and other adverbs. How to spot an

Proved vs. proven?

What is the difference between proved and proven? Ever feel like you have something to prove? If so, you're probably preoccupied with displaying a capability or talent. But what if you were to "prove” something in the past? Was it

Truely or truly?

What is the difference between truely and truly? “Truely” is a common misspelling of “truly,” the adverbial form of true (an adjective). Writers often confuse the two spellings because “true” ends with the word -e-.  While several adjectives retain their

Armor or armour?

What is the difference between armor and armour? Practicing writers often ask The Word Counter whether they should use the spelling armour or armor, and the answer is pretty simple:  Use “armour” for British audiencesUse “armor” for American audiences What

Lens or lense?

What is the difference between lens and lense? A “lens” is any curved, transparent optical device that transmits and focuses light to develop a clear image of something. Common examples include the transparent glass or plastic eyepiece of glasses, sunglasses,

Behaviour or behavior?

Behaviour or behavior?

“Behavior” is mainly an American spelling of the noun behaviour, while both American and British English spell “behave” the same. What is the difference between behaviour and behavior? “Behaviour” and “behavior” are two spellings of the same word. Behavior is

Quite vs. quiet?

What is the difference between quite and quiet? One of the most common errors we make as writers involves “quiet” and “quite.” We spell these words nearly the same, yet they have completely different meanings, pronunciations, and we use them

Widow vs. widower?

What is the difference between widow and widower? In the event that you’re writing about someone whose spouse has died, you’ll likely need to use the words “widow” and “widower.” But which term should you use?  If you’re referencing a

Analog vs. analogue?

Analog vs. analogue?

Analog is an American spelling of analogue, but more people are using analog as an adjective for computers/physics and analogue as a noun for the analogous.  What is the difference between analog and analogue English dictionaries list analog and analogue

Literally vs. figuratively?

Literally vs. figuratively?

Use literally to be literal. Use figuratively to mean “metaphorically” or “departing from the literal sense of a word.” What is the difference between literally and figuratively? The adverbs figuratively and literally are traditionally opposite terms that derive from the

The Definitive Grammarly Review

The Definitive Grammarly Review

What Is Grammarly?  Grammarly is a veritable Swiss Army knife, editorially speaking - a spellchecker, grammar checker, proofreader, and plagiarism filter rolled into one. And thanks to native desktop clients for Windows and macOS, an add-in for Microsoft Word, keyboard

Averse vs. adverse?

What is the difference between averse and adverse? When tasked with describing something you're opposed to, it's tempting to use words like averse and adverse interchangeably. But while these adjectives are both negative words with similar spellings, they ultimately describe

Cheque vs. check?

What is the difference between cheque and check? The nouns check and cheque both reference a written order to pay someone a certain amount of money, and either paper form comes from a booklet called a checkbook or chequebook. The

Would vs. will?

What is the difference between would and will? “Would” is the past tense form of “will,” but these two verbs don’t necessarily mean the same thing. Most of the time, we use “will" within direct speech to discuss a future

What are Simple and Complete Subjects?

What Is a Subject? A subject is a part of speech that can appear in both independent and dependent clauses. When we talk about "the subject of a sentence," we mean the subject of the main clause, also known as

The Meaning of GLHF: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of GLHF: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the abbreviation GLHF stand for? According to Slang It, the abbreviation GLHF means good luck, have fun. This salutation is a sign of good will used at the beginning of a game played online as a way for

Irregular Verb Examples: What They Are and How To Use Them

What are irregular verbs? According to Grammar Monster, an irregular verb is a verb that does not conjugate in a standard way. This verb does not form the simple past tense or past participle by adding "-ed" or "-d" to

The Predicate of the Sentence Is: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a predicate? According to Collins English Dictionary, a predicate is the part of a sentence or clause that is not the subject of the sentence, but the part in which something is said about the subject. There are

Progressive Aspect: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the progressive aspect? According to Walden, there are many different forms of a verb in the English language:   Bare infinitive tense  Present perfect progressive tense/continuous tense  Past perfect tense  Perfect passive tense  Conditional perfect tense  Past progressive tense  Subjunctive tense  Perfect aspect   Gerund tense  Present continuous tense  Past

Perfect Aspect: What It Is and How To Use It

What is the perfect aspect? According to Walden, there are many different forms of verbs in the English language:   Gerund tense or gerund phrase   Present progressive tense  Simple future tense  Simple present tense  Present perfect progressive/continuous tense  Perfect passive tense  Conditional perfect progressive tense  Imperfect tense  Future perfect

Abbreviation of And: What It Is and How To Use It

What is an abbreviation? According to Collins English Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, an abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase, where instead of using the whole word, only a

Quotation Examples: What They Are and How To Use Them

What are quotations? According to Really Learn English, quotations are punctuation marks with many different uses, like a comma, parentheses, colons, question mark, exclamation point, or semicolon. You can use quotation marks (single quotation marks or double quotation marks) for

Possessive Noun Examples: What They Are and How To Use Them

What is a possessive noun? According to Your Dictionary, possessive nouns show ownership of a person, place, thing, idea, quality or action by adding an apostrophe, an "s" or both. This varies with whether you are making a single noun

Reflexive Pronouns: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a reflexive pronoun? According to British Council, reflexive pronouns refer back to, or reflect on, a person or thing. English reflexive pronouns include myself, yourself, himself, herself, themself, itself, ourselves, yourselves and themselves. “Oneself” works with “one.” "Ourselves"

Punctuation Quotes: What They Are and How To Use Them

What are quotes? According to Really Learn English, quotations are punctuation marks with many different uses, just like punctuation marks like a comma, parentheses, dashes, colons, square brackets, double quotes, question mark, exclamation point, or semicolon. You can use single

Colloquialism: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a colloquialism? According to Collins English Dictionary, a colloquialism is a word or phrase that is appropriate to conversation and other informal situations, such as a slang term in everyday speech. This does not have the characteristic of

Compound Noun: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a compound noun? According to Your Dictionary, a compound noun is where two or more words join together to form a single noun. There are also compound verbs, compound adjectives, and other resulting compound forms. These can be

Abbreviation: What It Is and How To Use It

What is an abbreviation? According to Collins English Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, an abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase, where instead of using the whole word, only a

Nonrestrictive Clause: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a nonrestrictive clause? According to K12 Reader, a nonrestrictive clause is one that is not necessary to the clarity of a sentence. A dependent, or subordinate, clause contains a subject and a verb or verb phrase but does

Favorite vs. favourite?

What is the difference between favorite and favourite? “Favorite" is a spelling variant of "favourite.” Americans prefer “favorite," while the rest of the English-speaking world uses "favourite.” From there, the only other notable difference involves pronunciation: Americans typically say “fay-vuh-rit”

Read vs. read?

What is the difference between read and read? Confused about the verb “read”? You’re not the only one. This particular word is difficult to learn because it can sound the same for different verb tenses or when it appears as

Upmost or utmost?

What is the difference between upmost and utmost? “Upmost” and “utmost” are words writers commonly confuse due to their similar spellings and pronunciations, and this mix-up tends to occur with words like importance, respect, or concern. Sound familiar? We thought

Aisle vs. isle?

What is the difference between aisle and isle? If you’re shopping in a grocery store, you’ll find certain items in a particular aisle. If you’re sitting in the seat closest to a walkway between rows of seats, you’re sitting in

Anastrophe: What It Is and How To Use It

What is an anastrophe? According to Your Dictionary, anastrophe is a type of syntax used in prose and poetry in which the sentence inverts the subject-verb-object order. In Ancient Greek, anastrophē, from the Greek verb anastrephein(ana-strephein), means turning around. This

Verbal Noun: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a verbal noun? According to Grammar Monster, a verbal noun is a noun that has no verb-like properties despite being derived from a verb. This is different from deverbal nouns as well as a gerund, which is a

Personal Pronoun Example: What It Is and How To Use It

What is a personal pronoun? According to Your Dictionary, personal pronouns take the place of specific nouns naming people, places, ideas and things. These include I, he, him, her, it, me, she, them, they, us, we, and you in English

Suffix Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you speak English, you already know how to use suffixes. Even if you don't know the exact definition of a suffix, you likely still use them every day in your speech. Almost any time you add a new connotation

Fubar Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

The word FUBAR is one of the most exciting ways to let someone know exactly how much of a mess something is. While it is most commonly used in a joking manner with an origin in World War II, the

Adaptor vs. adapter?

What is the difference between adaptor and adapter? If you’re looking for a hot debate regarding spelling variants, look no further than the noun “adapter,” which we can also spell as “adaptor.”  Is there a correct spelling for British vs.

The Meaning of ASL: What It Is and How To Use It

What Does ASL Stand For? The abbreviation ASL can stand for two different things, primarily. First, this acronym can stand for American Sign Language. This is a language used by deaf people in the United States. While this is not

The Meaning of Diligence: What It Is and How To Use It

What Does the Word Diligence Mean? The word diligence is a noun that means proper attention and care, as well as a careful or steady application. This can be used literally or figuratively. Diligence is three syllables — di-li-gence, and

Sassy Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

According to The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition, sassy can be defined as being impertinent, disrespectful speech, or backtalk.  On the flip side, when we review a different definition brought to us by Oxford Lexico, sassy

Draconian Meaning: Here’s What it Means and How To Use It

Have you heard of Draco? No, not the Harry Potter character. This 7th-century law maker made waves with his terrible, horrible, no-good constitution. In fact, his laws were so out of pocket that the word draconian was created to describe

The Meaning of LMFAO: What It Is and How To Use It

Have you ever heard a funny joke and not known how to respond? Does “LOL” no longer have that same “Rolling on the Floor Laughing” punch? The slang term LMFAO can help you show your friends just how funny they

The Meaning of AAVE: What It Is and How To Use It

You may have heard about AAVE in the news or on social media. While this is a vernacular that has birthed many popular slang terms, AAVE is commonly misused and appropriated in American culture. Learn more about AAVE today so

Amidst Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Some words have a certain feel to them. They enhance what we say or really convey the imagery we want to portray. Amidst is a great word, but if you don’t know what it means, you could use it incorrectly

The Meaning of Esquire: What It Is and How To Use It

The word esquire sounds very antiquated, like something out of the Middle Ages. But how can this word be used in the modern day? Keep reading to learn all about the term esquire!  What Does the Word Esquire Mean? Your

Hypocrite Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

When a word gets hurled around as an insult, the actual definition of the word can get lost. It’s essential for healthy dialogue to understand words before you use them, especially if you intend to direct them towards someone else. 

SIC Meaning: Here’s What it Means and How to Use it?

SIC (pronounced as "sik") can be a tricky little word. It can stand beside grammar and spelling errors lurking in between quotation marks, and it has been doing so since the middle of the 19th century. While it is still

Luddite Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It?

Luddite is an old term that isn’t used that often amongst younger crowds. Still, many people do drop the word Luddite into sentences, and it’s important to understand what it means if you hear it. Today, we’ll learn what Luddite

The Meaning of Brexit: What It Is and How To Use It

There is a lot of controversy surrounding the decision known as Brexit. This article will cover what the word Brexit means, what the Referendum and Article 50 Negotiations Period are, the arguments for and against Brexit, and Brexit's impact on

Neanderthal Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Did you know that most human beings that walk the earth have about 3 percent Neanderthal DNA? Sometime around 40,000 years ago, Neanderthals and ancient humans are said to have reproduced, resulting in the exchange of DNA.   That said, what

The Meaning of Inclusive: What It Is and How To Use It

There are many ways that people can be inclusive. This article will cover the various meanings of inclusive and how to use them in a sentence. We’re also going over the origin of the word inclusive, translations, and synonyms and

Labor vs. labour?

What is the difference between labor and labour? “Labor” and “labour” are two spellings of the same word:  “Labor” is the preferred spelling for American English“Labour" is standard for British English (i.e., English spoken in England, Canada, Australia, New Zealand,

Bad vs. badly?

What is the difference between bad and badly? The adjective bad is one of the first words we learn to use, as it informs our understanding of qualities we enjoy. (For example: “Sugar is good. Pain is bad.”) But when

Curated Meaning: Here’s What it Means and How to Use it?

Have you ever heard someone say the word curate or its past tense curated and feel confused because you were unsure of the meaning? Not to worry; we're here to help.  In this article, we're exploring the word curate to

Undergraduate Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use it

After graduating from high school, you may mull over the idea of pursuing a college degree. From helping you to build a strong educational foundation to improving your technical skills, completing your undergraduate education can help you in more ways

Perpetuity Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Perpetuity is a word that not many people truly understand. The concept of perpetuity deals primarily with the ideas of endlessness in terms of cash flows and incomes that have no maturity date and an indefinite duration. While the concept

The Meaning of Twink: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you know the meaning of the word twink? Have you heard the word twink and not understood what people were trying to say? Keep reading to learn more about this versatile word! What Does Twink Mean? According to Dictionary,

The Meaning of Through: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word through mean, and are there multiple ways to use it? This article will cover the definition of the word through and how to use it in various contexts. It will also provide various synonyms, antonyms, and

Annihilation Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It?

Whether from the news, social media, history class, or a video game, you've likely come across the word annihilation — but what exactly does it mean? We'll tell you.  Read on to discover our complete guide on the term annihilation

The Meaning of Resume: What It Is and How To Use It

You might have heard two pronunciations of resume. What is the difference between these two words? This article will teach you how to use the word resume as both a verb and a noun and provide a plethora of additional

Helter-Skelter Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use This Phrase

Helter Skelter: It’s a popular Beatles song from 1968 that many say was the predecessor of the heavy metal of the seventies. It was a song written to try and outdo the song “I Can See For Miles” by rival

The Meaning of Bespoke: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you own anything bespoke? This article will teach you how to use bespoke in several ways. Then, it will provide information about translations of the word bespoke, synonyms and antonyms, and its origin. Read on to learn more! What

The Meaning of Ricochet: What It Is and How To Use It

Have you ever seen something ricochet off of something else? This article will define the word ricochet and teach you how to use it in a sentence. In addition, we will provide you with all of the information you need

Wicked Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you're a die-hard fan of Stephen Schwartz's and Winnie Holzmans' breathtaking adaptation of Gregory Maguires' novel about a land where animals talk or you fancy yourself a witch , you've likely come across the term wicked before— but what

Comprehensive Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

From the insurance industry to British English, there's no denying that the word "comprehensive" is used frequently. That said, what exactly does it mean? We'll tell you.  This article explores the term comprehensive to uncover its definition, origin, synonyms, and

The Meaning of Coon: What It Is and How To Use It

The word coon can be highly offensive and should be avoided at all costs. However, it is important to know why the word coon is offensive. Knowing the history of different slang terms can be important to better understand exactly

The Meaning of Compliance: What It Is and How To Use It

What does the word compliance mean? Keep reading to find out! What Does Compliance Mean? According to Dictionary, compliance is a noun that refers to the act of conformity, acquiescence, or yielding. The word compliance evokes a sense of weakness

TTFN Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

You may have seen it in an email, a text message, or even a letter (if you’re old school), but maybe you’ve been a little puzzled at what TTFN means. Obviously, it’s an acronym for something, but what does it

) Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Question marks, exclamation points, quotation marks; there are so many punctuations out there, but one that is sometimes misunderstood is the parentheses. Whether you’ve used parentheses to make a smiley face, signify that you’re “whispering” in a text, or if

Labyrinth Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

When you hear the word "labyrinth," what comes to mind? Do you think about Guillermo del Toro's academy award-winning dark fable Pan's Labyrinth? Or what about the dystopian sci-fi film based on James Dashner's 2009 novel The Maze Runner?  Maybe

The Meaning of Pretentious: What It Is and How To Use It

Have you or someone you know ever been described as pretentious? This article will define the word pretentious and teach you how to use it in a sentence. Then, it will provide you with numerous translations of pretentious and additional

The Meaning of Daft: What It Is and How To Use It

Have you ever heard the idiom “daft as a brush” and wondered what it means? This article will define the word daft and provide a plethora of additional information, including example sentences, related terms, and translations of this word of

Status Quo Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

One of the most exciting things about language is how many world languages borrow from each other. As scholars and linguists look at words in the modern world, they can often trace their roots back to languages that existed hundreds

Legion Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

The word legion is one of the most exciting words when it comes to shifting meanings over the course of time. While this word was once used to only describe the world-famous Roman legion of ancient times, its implications have

Conservative Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

There are a ton of Americans who call themselves "conservative." What exactly does the word conservative mean, and where did it come from? You have questions, and we have answers. Read on as we explore the term conservative to uncover

Ambiguity Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Ambiguity is one of the most common things in the world today. No matter where you look, you're likely to find things that don't make sense to you or have various meanings. Working through these meanings often requires intentional focus

NSFW Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

NSFW is an important acronym that you’re likely to come across more than once. It is a near-universally understood online content warning. If you see this abbreviation, it's something that you should take seriously, depending on the context in which

The Meaning of Conjunction: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you know how to identify the conjunction of a sentence? When do sentences use conjunctions?  This article will define the word conjunction and teach you how to use conjunctions in a sentence. You will also learn how to point

The Meaning of Modest: What It Is and How To Use It

What does it mean to describe a person, place, or thing as modest? This article will teach you all about how to use the word modest in a sentence. Then, it will provide you with key information that will further

The Meaning of Principal: What It Is and How To Use It

If someone says that they are a principal, what does that mean? If they describe something as principal, does that mean something else? This article will clarify the difference between the adjective principal and the noun principal. Then, it will

The Meaning of Zen: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you know what it means to be zen? First, this article will teach you what the word zen means. Then, it will provide the history of the word zen and example sentences containing the word zen, translations of the

Cod Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

From catfish, salmon, and tilapia to haddock, mackerel, and trout, there's no denying that the sea is full of tasty fish — but have you ever experienced cod?   Soft, flaky, and mild in flavor, cod is a delightful fish that

Transsexual Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If someone says that they are transsexual, what does that mean? Is transsexual the same as transgender? What is intersex?  You have questions, and we have answers. Read on as we explore the term transsexual to uncover what it means

Empirical Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

The word empirical is used commonly by scientists, but what does it mean? And where does it come from? This guide will provide you with everything that you need to know on empirical. What Is the Definition of Empirical? According

Indemnify Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

The word indemnify is one that typically comes up when discussing security or protection against liability, but what exactly does it mean? Is it an insurance term? And how is it used in a sentence?  You have questions, and we

Leo Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Sure, Leo may be short for the name Leon or Leopold, but it’s also the fifth sign of the zodiac. Leo is ruled by the sun and represented by the lion.  Interested in learning more? We can help! Read on

The Meaning of Aggregate: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you know how to use the word aggregate? This word of the day has many potential meanings and parts of speech. In the following article, you will learn all about the ways you can use the word aggregate.  Next,

Relevant Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Have you ever heard the word relevant? Believe us when we say that it relates to your life and is an important word to know. It can help make your writing and speech informative and clear, and it can liven

Nifty Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Have you ever heard the word nifty used in conversation? This quirky little word is not only a fun word to say, but it's also a great word to add to your vocabulary to make your language and writing more

Utopia Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

While some folks think a utopian world contradicts reality, others believe every dystopia is simply a utopia in disguise. That said, what exactly does the word utopia mean, and where does it come from? We’ll tell you.  Read on to

Legit Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Between the simple yet cool phrase "that's legit" and the name of MC Hammer's iconic hit "2 Legit 2 Quit," you're likely familiar with the word legit, but what does it mean? And where did it come from? We'll tell

Riot Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Pop quiz: What do the Stonewall Rebellion, Black Lives Matter, and Women’s Suffrage parade all have in common?  If your answer was that each historic protest involves rioting, you’d be correct — but don’t get it twisted. These “riots” don’t

Cougar Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

When someone mentions the word “cougar,” what typically comes to mind?  Do you think about mountain lions or pumas? How about an older woman on the prowl for a much younger man? Believe it or not, you wouldn’t be incorrect

The Meaning of Edgy: What It Is and How To Use It

If someone describes something as edgy, you might wonder if this is a good thing or a bad thing. Edgy has multiple meanings, so it is important to be able to decipher which one someone is using based on the

Articulate Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Suppose you struggle with speeches or presenting your ideas in a clear and understandable way. In that case, you may want to brush up on your articulation skills — especially if you have an interview coming up with a potential

The Meaning of Meme: What It Is and How To Use It

Today we will explore a fascinating internet sensation: the meme. While memes may seem like they are a relatively recent impression, in this article, you will learn about the actual origin of the term meme. We will also provide several

Genre Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It?

Even if you’re not a movie aficionado or an avid reader, you’ve likely come across the word “genre” before — but what exactly is a genre?  In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about the

AM Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you’re one of the millions of people who struggle to get out of bed in the A.M., chances are you rely on an alarm clock to help wake you from your deep slumber. But do you know what the

Boxing Day Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Despite what many people think, Boxing Day is not a holiday designated to celebrate famous fighters duking it out in the ring. In fact, it has absolutely nothing to do with the sport of boxing. So, what exactly is Boxing

Posh Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you’re a part of the largest living generation in the United States (aka millennials), there’s no denying that you’re not familiar with the iconic British pop group The Spice Girls.  Known for their infectious songs and quirky nicknames like

Ilk Meaning: Here’s What it Means and How to Use It

There are some words in the English language that just seem a bit strange.  Many words are historic and important, but they just don’t have as much usage in the modern-day as they once did.  Ilk is one of those

Harmony Meaning: Here's What It Means and How To Use It

Harmony Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you speak English, it’s more than likely that you’ve heard the word harmony now and again. Maybe you’ve heard it in the context of music, or perhaps you’ve listened to it in the context of a personal relationship with

ADR Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

ADR Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Have you ever heard of the acronym ADR? This grouping of three letters represents a couple of different phrases. Both of these meanings are incredibly important — one in the world of finance and one in the world of business

The Meaning of Claim: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of Claim: What It Is and How To Use It

You might have heard the word claim in idioms like “stake a claim” or “lay claim,” but what does the word claim mean? This article will cover the definition of our word of the day: claim.  We will provide a

The Meaning of Tweak: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of Tweak: What It Is and How To Use It

You might have heard the word tweak in idioms like a tweak of the nose, but what does this word mean? In this article, we will teach you all about what the word tweak means and how to use it

The Meaning of CE: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of CE: What It Is and How To Use It

Perhaps you have seen the abbreviation CE used after a number and wondered what it meant. This article will teach you what this word of the day stands for, its origin, and how to use it.  What Does CE Usually

The Meaning of Rash: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of Rash: What It Is and How To Use It

What does it mean to describe some person or action as rash? What does it mean if someone has a rash?  Today, we will define rash as our word of the day. Rash has two very different meanings, so it

The Meaning of Broad: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of Broad: What It Is and How To Use It

You might have heard today’s word of the day in idioms like broad strokes, but what does the word broad actually mean? Today, we will cover all of the potential meanings of the word broad.  By the end of this

Predator Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Predator Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Pop quiz: What do lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) all have in common?  If you guessed that these animals are all predators, then you are correct! Wondering what the word predator means? We can help.  Read on as we

The Meaning of Namesake: What It Is and How To Use It

The Meaning of Namesake: What It Is and How To Use It

Today, we will learn all about the word namesake. Today’s article will teach you what the word namesake means and how to use it.  Then, it will provide example sentences that contain the word namesake, explain where the word namesake

Kyrie Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Kyrie Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

When you hear the word Kyrie, the American professional basketball player named Kyrie Irving likely comes to mind, but do you know what this Greek word means? Not to worry; we'll tell you.  Read on as we explore the word

Lien Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Unless you’re a homeowner, real estate agent, or lawyer, the word “lien” may bring you some confusion. Not to worry, though; The Word Counter is here to help! This article explores the word “lien” to uncover this commonly used term’s

Sovereign Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

The word sovereign is generally used in lieu of “grand master” for the supreme head of various orders of European nations. So, what exactly does it mean, and where did it come from?  In this article, we’re exploring the word

Bad Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Bad Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

According to George Washington, "It's better to be alone than in bad company." That said, what exactly does the word bad mean, and where did it come from? We'll tell you.  Read on as we explore the word bad to

Black American Flag Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Black American Flag Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

From New York to California, the all-black American flag is a symbol that the country has seen quite a bit in recent years, but what exactly does it mean? And what does it symbolize? We’ll tell you. In this article,

Mrs. Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Mrs. Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

You may know the word Mrs. as the opposite of Mr., but do you know what this abbreviation actually stands for or where it derives from? Not to worry; The Word Counter is here to help.  In this post, we’re

Innuendo Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Innuendo Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

The humble eggplant emoji — aka the "purple vegetable" emoji — is a realistic cartoon of a long, purple eggplant with a green leafy stem.  While it's commonly used when referring to the actual veggie, the eggplant emoji has been

What Does Cryptid Mean? | The Word Counter

Cryptid Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, El Chupacabra — do you know any of these names? If so, you may be able to guess what today’s “word of the day” is about. That’s right — today, we’re learning all about cryptids.

Sketchy Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Sketchy Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If someone describes something as sketchy, it may leave you feeling a little sus — but what exactly does "sketchy" mean, and where did this interesting word come from? We'll tell you.  In this article, we're exploring the world of

Double Caret Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

When you hear someone say "double caret," we wouldn't blame you for instantly thinking about two bright-orange carrots. However, more often than not, our word of the day refers to a pair of punctuation marks.  Interested in learning more? We've

Dogmatic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Some folks have the ability to set their emotions to the side and make clear, calm decisions — even when stress is at an all-time high. Rather than getting caught up in big-picture ideals or feeling overwhelmed by a crisis,

Hotep Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Hotep Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Over the last few decades, the word hotep has been making an appearance amongst the "super woke," but do you know what it means or where it came from? Not to worry; The Word Counter is here to help! In

Projecting Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Has anyone ever told you to stop projecting your feelings onto them?  While projecting is commonly used in the realm of psychology, there's a good chance you've heard the word used in heated discussions when people feel attacked.  So, what

Paranoid Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Paranoid Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Do you ever feel as though people are "out to get you" or that you're the subject of persistent, intrusive attention by others?  Although it's normal to sometimes feel a bit wary of others, an intense feeling of mistrust that

RPE Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you're a fitness fanatic, gym rat, or exercise guru, you've likely crossed paths with the acronym RPE before, but do you know what it means? Not to worry — The Word Counter is here to help! In this post,

Logic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you’re a fan of philosophy or the American Rapper Robert Bryson Hall, you’ve likely come across the word logic before — but do you know what it means? Not to worry; The Word Counter is here to help! Some

Valkyrie Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Valkyrie Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you're one of the many die-hard fans of the Marvel movie Thor: Ragnarok, chances are you're familiar with the word Valkyrie — but do you know what it means? Or where the Valkyrie come from? Not to worry; The

Spouse Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

When filling out a personal application about your marital status, you may see a question that asks for the name of your spouse — but what does the word "spouse" mean? And where did it come from? We'll tell you. 

Affidavit Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

From bankruptcy and family law to criminal and civil cases, just about everyone is required to sign some type of affidavit at one point or another. These common legal documents are used in a number of proceedings — but what

Je Ne Sais Quoi Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Je Ne Sais Quoi Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

From movies and tv shows to even some books and novels, the word "je ne sais quoi" is one that is commonly seen in various works of art — but what exactly does it mean? Where did it come from?

Flux Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Flux Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If your dreams, ideals, and goals seem to change all the time, you may be in a state of flux — but what exactly does the word flux mean, and where did it come from? We'll tell you.  In this

Snob Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Has anyone ever told you to stop being such a royal snob? Or have you ever heard someone refer to a person's behavior as snobbish? Do you know what the word snob means? Not to worry — The Word Counter

Spinster Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you're a 90s kid, chances are you're familiar with the Third Street School administrator Muriel P. Finster from the beloved tv show Recess. Unlike Principal Prickly, who is a married man, Miss Finster is a spinster. What does the

Pink Roses Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

From red roses to white roses,violet roses to yellow roses, the world is full of beautiful roses in a wide variety of gorgeous colors.  While many people view these lovely flowers as nothing more than a sweet gesture, you might

Race Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Race Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

From triathlons and fun runs to NASCAR and the 400 IM, there's no shortage of competitive races that are held all around the globe. That said, the word "race" doesn't only refer to a competition— it refers to human categorization,

Monopoly Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Monopoly Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

The beloved game of Monopoly has been around for ages — but do you know what the word "monopoly" means or where it came from? Not to worry; we'll tell you. In this post, we're exploring the word monopoly (/məˈnɒp

Veto Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

With the United States midterm elections lurking right around the corner, you've likely seen a lot of bills that have been vetoed in recent months. That said, do you know what the word veto means?  This post explores the term

Good Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

John Wooden — one of the greatest NCAA basketball head coaches of all time — once said, "Good things take time." Still, what exactly does the word good mean? Sure, it's the opposite of bad, but do you know the

Audit Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Out of over 160 million individual income tax returns that were filed last year, the IRS (AKA Internal Revenue Service) audited roughly 659,003. That said, what does the word audit mean? And why does the IRS audit taxpayers? You have

Holler Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Some folks use the word holler (/ˈhɒlə/ /ˈhɒl.ə/) in lieu of the word hollow, but what exactly does it mean? Where did this interesting term come from? We'll tell you.  In this article, we're exploring the word holler to uncover

Integral Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It?

Has anyone ever told you that you're an integral part of a team, leaving you to wonder what the word integral even means? Not to worry; we're here to help! In this guide, we're exploring the English word integral to

Accepted Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Congratulations, witches, and warlocks — you’ve been accepted into the school of witchcraft and wizardry! Before you pack your broomstick and wand, let’s discuss what the word accepted means.  In this article, we’re diving into the magical world of terminology

Word Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It?

Words are extremely powerful.  They have the ability to crush a heart or heal it. They can liberate a soul or shame it. They can shatter a dream or give it life. They can move people to action or cause

Omen Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

What do black cats, broken mirrors, and ravens all have in common? If you guessed that these things are all omens, you’d be correct! That said, what does the word omen even mean, and where did it come from? We’ll

Stud Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

What do a vertical board and a gorgeous man have in common? They’re both studs.  Yup, it’s true — both an undeniably attractive man and a vertical piece of wood installed during new construction can be considered a stud. Interested

SS Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

From NVM and LMK to OMG and ILY, there are a ton of abbreviations that can be found in the English language. Some of them are trendy and popular, like YOLO and LMFAO, whereas others are not as well known

Slur Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Next to bloodshot eyes, a staggering stance, and reeking of alcohol, slurred speech is one of the telltale signs of intoxication, but what does the word slur mean? And does it only pertain to speech? We’ll tell you.  Read on

Tender Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Between a seemingly endless pandemic and inflation on the rise, it's really no surprise that most people's stress levels are at an all-time high these days. But since chronic stress is a silent killer, it's more important than ever to

Lent Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Have you ever wondered what your Christan pals are talking about when they say they're giving something up for Lent? Are you interested in learning what Lent is and how it relates to Easter?  If so, you're in the right

Lust Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you’re familiar with the Seven Deadly Sins, you’ve likely come across the lust before — but what does lust mean? We’ll tell you.  This article explores the word lust to uncover its definition, origin, synonyms, and more. So if

Toxic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

You may hear someone toss the word toxic around when referring to an unhealthy relationship or a hateful person, but what exactly does it mean? And why is everything seemingly “toxic” these days? We’ll tell you.   Read on as we

Assertive Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Assertive Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Many people believe being assertive is rude, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, being assertive means you have respect for others’ thoughts and opinions.  Interested in learning more? We can help. Read on to discover everything

Lethargic Meaning: Here's What It Means and How to Use It

Lethargic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Even if you don’t know the definition of lethargic, you’ve definitely experienced lethargy on multiple occasions. Lethargic is a state of being that is pretty common to the human experience.  Because everybody experiences it at some point, the word lethargic

Patience Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Patience is a virtue that many wish to possess. Let's dive deeper into the meaning of this word. Learning about new words is always a blast, and we’re excited to teach you a few.  If you've heard idioms like “patience

* Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

* Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

In addition to the thousands of words that make up the English language, there are also a number of symbols, “*” being one of them. Otherwise known as the asterisk symbol, “*” is found above the “8” key on standard

Trap Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you’re a Star Wars junkie or a die-hard Family Guy fan, you’ve likely come across the memorable phrase, “It’s a trap!” once or twice. Still, what exactly does the word “trap” mean?  In this post, we’re exploring the vast

Thought Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Thought Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you ask us, The Thinker (AKA, Le Penseur) is one of the most iconic sculptures known to man.  Originally a part of Rodin's The Gates of Hell, The Thinker depicts a nude male who is clearly absorbed in thought

ICU Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Unless you’ve been hiding in a bunker the last few years, you’re probably familiar with the shortage of ICU beds in the United States, likely due to staffing shortages and an increase in COVID cases. But do you know what

Acquisition Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you've ever purchased something or acquired a new skill, you've likely come across the term acquisition (ˌækwɪˈzɪʃən) before, but do you know what it means? Not to worry; we'll tell you! In this post, we're diving into the word

Epoch Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you've been reading for quite some time, you've likely come across the term epoch before, but do you know what it means? Not to worry; The Word Counter is here to help!  In this post, we're exploring the English

Entitled Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If someone tries to cut you in line at the grocery store or attempts to be seated before you at a busy restaurant, you may use the word “entitled” to describe them. Not sure what entitled (ɪnˈtaɪ.t̬əld) means? Don’t worry;

Lit Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Lit Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you're turning up at a gathering, someone may describe the event as "lit." For example, "this party is lit!" — but what exactly does lit (lɪt) mean? Don't worry; we're here to help.  In this article, we're exploring the

ISTJ Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

ISTJ Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Did you know that the ISTJ is thought to be the most common of the Myers-Briggs personality types? Yup, it’s true — the ISTJ personality type is attributed to more than 10 percent of the U.S. population. Interested in learning

Coup Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Coup Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you live in the United States, there's no doubt that you've come across the word coup once or twice — especially in recent months. However, do you know what it means? Not to worry — The Word Counter is

Clandestine Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Clandestine Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you're a super-spy working on a top-secret mission, then you've probably come across the term clandestine (klændɛstɪn) once or twice — but do you know what it means?  Not to worry; this article will provide you with all there

Inflation Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Inflation Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Unless you’ve been living off-grid the last couple of years, then you’re likely familiar with inflation — but what exactly does it mean? We’ll tell you.  In this post, we’re exploring the word inflation to uncover its definition, origin, and

Platonic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Do you have a huge crush on your long-time bestie? If you don’t say how you feel sooner rather than later, your platonic relationship may keep you in the friend zone. Not sure what the word platonic means? Don’t fret;

Republic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Since Americans hold the ultimate political power in the United States, the Land of the Free is a democracy. The U.S. is also a republic, however, because the elected representatives exercise political power. Wondering what the word republic (rəˈpʌb.lɪk, rɪpʌblɪk)

Patent Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Patent Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you conjure up a new invention, you may want to consider applying for a patent (ˈpæt.ənt, pætənt) to stop others from copying, manufacturing, or selling your creation. Wondering what a patent is? We can help with that.  Read on

Fortnight Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you're a gaming fanatic, you've likely heard about the incredibly popular video game called Fortnite.  A world of many experiences, this survival game is one where players from around the globe compete to be the last player — or

Slander Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you’re one of the millions of people who kept up with the defamation trial between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, you’re likely familiar with the word “slander” — but what exactly does it mean? We’ll tell you. Read on

Red Pill Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you've ever seen the 1999 science fiction action film The Matrix, then you're probably familiar with the infamous scene where Morpheus offers the main character Neo (played by Keanu Reeves) either a blue pill or a red pill.  The

Straight Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Straight (streɪt, streyt) is an interesting word. Not only does it refer to moving uniformly in one direction, but when used as a colloquial term, our word of the day describes heterosexual people.  Confused? Not to worry — we're here

Citation Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

If you're compiling data to write an informative article, it's important to use citations to tell your readers that certain material in your writing came from another source. You see, citing the sources used in your research is a simple

Heuristics Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Heuristics (heu·​ris·​tic\ \hyu̇-ˈri-stik) play important roles in both decision-making and problem-solving — but what exactly are they, and where did this confusing word come from? You have questions, and we have answers. Read on as we explore the fascinating world

Prognosis Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Prognosis Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

For those who are vaccinated against the coronavirus disease 2019 (AKA COVID-19), the prognosis is good for survival. Wondering what the word prognosis (prɑːɡˈnoʊ.sɪs/ /prɒɡˈnəʊ.sɪs) means? We can help.  Read on as we explore the term prognosis — plural prognoses

Perennial Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Perennial Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Pop quiz: What do peonies, hostas, and black-eyed Susans have in common? If you guessed that they are all perennial plants, then you are correct. Still, the word perennial (/pəˈren.i.əl/ /pəˈrenēəl/ /pəˈrɛniəl/) doesn't solely refer to flowers — despite what

Nadir Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Nadir Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

The last thing anyone wants to do is hit rock bottom, but sometimes despair is a good thing. In fact, according to Dean Koontz, "Despair can be the nadir of one life and the starting point of an ascent into

Boo Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Boo Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

When someone hears a loud eerie "BOO" in the middle of the night, their first thought is usually to call the Ghostbusters — but have you ever wondered why ghosts say boo? Where did this three-letter word come from, and

Sympathy Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

When someone experiences sorrow, showing sympathy is a noble gesture that can somewhat generate a feeling of support. That said, what exactly does the word sympathy mean, and how does it differ from empathy? Not to worry — we'll tell

Psychic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Psychic Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Do you have vivid dreams and strong emotions? Is deja vu a normal occurrence for you? Does inspiration and creativity come naturally?  If you feel especially tuned into the universe, you may be psychic.  What's a psychic (/ˈsaɪ.kɪk/ /ˈsī-kik/), you

Fandom Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

From basketball and soccer to football and hockey, there’s no denying that sports fandom contains some of the biggest fans on the planet — but what exactly does the word fandom mean, and where did it come from? We’ll tell

Yeah Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Just about every English speaker has used the word "yeah" before, whether in regular conversation or when jamming to Usher's 2004 club banger, "Yeah!" Despite how popular this little four-letter word is, not everyone knows its definition. Sure, it's commonly

Cordial Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Cordial Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

If you're not particularly fond of the bitter taste of beer or the acidity in wine, you may want to consider a cordial. What exactly is a cordial, you ask? Don't worry — we'll tell you! In this article, we're

Don Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Have you ever heard of the word don? This little word might not seem like much, but it has a couple of important definitions. When used correctly, it makes a perfect addition to your vocabulary in writing and conversation. So,

Draft Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

There are some words in the English language that have several meanings. When you encounter words like this, it can be difficult to understand which definition is used in a given context.  The word draft is one of those words.

Don’t Tread on Me Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

We have another word of the day for you! Let's learn about the old saying don't tread on me. You may have seen these words printed on a bright yellow flag, but did you know they’re considered quite controversial?  We're

BS Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Today's word of the day is BS. BS is an abbreviation for multiple words. The American English definitions of BS are bachelor of science, bill of sales, bachelor of surgery, or bullsh*t (vulgar slang).  It's always fun learning something new,

IPA Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Beer has long been known as one of the most popular drinks in the world. For hundreds of years, it has been a staple beverage in countless cultures and countries. Because of that, there are many varieties of the drink.