aback 2 abeyance aback ə b k adv by surprise taken aback She was taken aback [=she was very surprised] by his rude response. He was taken aback [=shoc

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1 Dictionary of the English Language 1 a or e noun, pl a s or as or s or s 1 the first letter of the English alphabet [count] a word that begins with an a [noncount] a word that begins with a 2 a musical note or key referred to by the letter the sixth tone of a C-major scale [count] play/sing an [noncount] a song in the key of 3 [count] a grade that is given to a student for doing excellent work She got an on the exam. He s an student. [=a student who gets s for his schoolwork] 4 [noncount] used to refer to the first of two or more people, places, or things that are being considered If, B, and C divide the coins equally, how many does each person get? an for effort see EFFORT exhibit see 2 EXHIBIT from to Z including everything The book is titled Home Repairs From to Z. from (point) to (point) B from one place to another I don t care about the scenery. I m only interested in getting from to B. 2 a ə, e or an ən, n indefinite article a a a door a human an an icicle an honor a a one a union an an FBI investigation an LCD display h 1 a an a historic an historic 1 used before singular nouns when the person or thing is being mentioned for the first time There was a tree in the field. man walked past him. I heard a shout. He bought a house, but this is not the house he bought. I ordered an apple and some cheese: I ate the apple but not the cheese. 2 a used like one before number words like hundred, thousand, etc. hundred, thousand 1 a hundred and twenty people a million dollars a dozen doughnuts b used like one before number words like third, fortieth, etc. third, fortieth 1 This is a [=one] third the size of that. c used like one before units of weight, measurement, etc. 1 a pound or two [=one or two pounds] a week or two [=one or two weeks] a foot and a half of water = one and a half feet of water d one single even one They didn t charge me a penny. [=they didn t charge me anything at all] Did she say anything about it? Not a word. 3 used before a word or phrase that indicates a type or class of person or thing My uncle is a plumber. Copper is a metal. She s a very nice lady. often used before noncount nouns that are modified by an adjective or phrase a torrential rain She has a warmth that puts people at ease. I ve always had a fondness for chocolate. 4 used like any to refer in a general way to people or things any person who is sick can t work well. [=people can t work well if they are sick] 5 used before a proper noun to indicate limited knowledge about the person or thing being mentioned Mr. Smith [=a man named Mr. Smith] called to ask about the job. mong the towns of the area there is a Newton, I believe. 6 a used before a proper noun that is acting as an example or type the attractions of a Boston or a Cleveland His friends say he s an Einstein in regard to science. b used before the name of a day of the week to refer to one occurrence of it My birthday falls on a Tuesday this year. 7 a used before the name of a person (such as a famous artist) when the name is being used to refer to something (such as a painting) created by that person The museum recently purchased a Rembrandt. [=a painting by Rembrandt] My violin is a Stradivarius. b used before a family name to show that someone is a member of that family Did you know that she s a Kennedy? 8 used before a proper noun referring to a person or thing that has a particular quality triumphant Ms. Jones greeted her supporters. [=Ms. Jones was triumphant when she greeted her supporters] We were met at the door by an embarrassed Mr. Brown. [=Mr. Brown was embarrassed when he met us at the door] We had a very mild January. 9 used with words like bit and little to form phrases that describe quantity, amount, or degree bit little She felt a bit tired. It s getting a little late. 10 used in phrases that describe how often something occurs, how fast something is going, etc. They meet twice a week. [=twice each week] The car was traveling at a hundred miles an [=per] hour. 1 a- ə prefix 1 on in at abed 2 in (such) a state or condition afire 3 in (such) a manner aloud 4 old-fashioned in the act or process of gone a-hunting [=gone hunting] 2 a- or an- prefix not without asexual abbr 1 lcoholics nonymous 2 Brit utomobile ssociation abbr, US merican utomobile ssociation 1 aah b interj used to express pleasure, surprise, or happiness ah, that feels good. 2 aah verb aahs; aahed; aahing [no obj] informal to express amazement, joy, or surprise ooh and aah We all oohed and aahed at/over the fireworks. aah noun, pl aahs [count] the oohs and aahs of the crowd aard vark b d vb k noun, pl -varks [count] a large frican animal that has a long nose and that eats ants and other insects RP abbr, US merican ssociation of Retired Persons ab b noun, pl abs [count] informal any one of the muscles that cover a person s stomach an abdominal muscle an athlete doing exercises to tone his abs ab. abbr about

2 aback 2 abeyance aback ə b k adv by surprise taken aback She was taken aback [=she was very surprised] by his rude response. He was taken aback [=shocked, startled] when he saw their house. aba cus bəkəs noun, pl -cus es also -ci - sa [count] a device used for counting and calculating by sliding small balls or beads along rods or in grooves ab a lo ne bə lo ni noun, pl -nes [count, noncount] a abacus type of shellfish that is eaten as food and that has a shell that is lined with a hard white material (called mother-of-pearl) 1 aban don ə b ndən verb -dons; -doned; -don ing [+ obj] 1 a to leave and never return to (someone who needs protection or help) The child had been abandoned (by his parents) as an infant. He abandoned his family. b to leave and never return to (something) abandon property They abandoned the car on a back road. That house was abandoned years ago. 2 to leave (a place) because of danger The approaching fire forced hundreds of people to abandon their homes. The officer refused to abandon his post. a abandon ship The captain gave the order to abandon ship. The company is doing poorly, and many investors have decided to abandon ship. [=to sell their stock in the company] 3 to stop supporting or helping (someone or something) The policy abandons the most vulnerable members of society. She abandoned the party not long after the election. 4 to stop doing or having (something) to give up (something) completely We abandoned hope of ever going back. He abandoned the principles that he once fought hard to defend. She had to abandon her plans for a vacation. Play was abandoned because of the bad weather. abandon yourself to literary to allow yourself to be fully controlled or affected by (something, such as a strong emotion) He abandoned himself to despair. [=he was overcome by despair] aban don ment ə b ndənmənt noun [noncount] the abandonment of a child/home 2 abandon noun [noncount] a feeling or attitude of wild or complete freedom They all danced with (wild) abandon. She decided with reckless abandon [=in a very wild and reckless way] to quit her job and move to Tahiti. aban doned ə b ndənd adj 1 a left without needed protection or care an abandoned baby b left by the owner an abandoned house/car c no longer held or thought of given up abandoned [=forsaken] hopes/dreams 2 [more ~; most ~] literary wild and uncontrolled abandoned behavior He led a reckless and abandoned life and died young. abase ə be s verb abas es; abased; abas ing abase yourself formal to behave in a way that makes you seem lower or less deserving of respect politicians abasing themselves before wealthy businessmen abashed ə b t adj [more ~; most ~] embarrassed or ashamed She seemed a little abashed when they asked about her job. opposite UNBSHED abate ə be t verb abates; abat ed; abat ing [no obj] to become weaker to decrease in strength We waited for the wind/storm to abate. The excitement has abated. abate ment ə be tmənt noun, pl -ments [noncount] The violence has continued without abatement. [count] a tax abatement [=an amount by which a tax is reduced] ab at toir bə twb noun, pl -toirs [count] chiefly Brit SLUGHTERHOUSE ab bess bəs noun, pl -bess es [count] a woman who is the head of a convent ab bey bi noun, pl -beys [count] 1 a a monastery run by an abbot b a convent run by an abbess 2 a church that is connected to other buildings where monks or nuns live or once lived Westminster bbey ab bot bət noun, pl -bots [count] a man who is the head of a monastery abbr or abbr. abbr abbreviation ab bre vi ate ə bri vi e t verb -ates; -at ed; -at ing [+ obj] to make (something) shorter He gave us an abbreviated [=shortened] account of his travels.; to reduce (a word or name) to a shorter form You can abbreviate the word building as bldg. United States of merica is commonly abbreviated to/as US. ab bre vi a tion ə bri vi e ən noun, pl -tions [count] a shortened form of a word or name that is used in place of the full word or name US is an abbreviation of/for United States of merica. 1 BC e bi si noun, pl BCs or BC s 1 the letters of the English alphabet [plural] (US) We learned our BC s. [singular] (Brit) We learned our BC. 2 the most basic or important information about a subject [plural] (US) learning the BC s of wine [singular] (Brit) learning the BC of wine (as) easy as BC see 1 ESY 2 BC abbr 1 merican Broadcasting Corporation a BC 2 ustralian Broadcasting Corporation ab di cate bd ke t verb -cates; -cat ed; -cat ing 1 to leave the position of being a king or queen [no obj] The king was forced to abdicate. [+ obj] The king abdicated the throne. 2 [+ obj] formal to fail to do what is required by (a duty or responsibility) The government abdicated [=abandoned] its responsibility to provide a good education to all citizens. ab di ca tion bd ke ən noun, pl -tions [count, noncount] ab do men bdəmən noun, pl -mens [count] 1 the part of the body below the chest that contains the stomach and other organs see picture at HUMN 2 the rear part of an insect s body ab dom i nal b db mən adj abdominal pain/surgery abdominal muscles ab duct b d kt verb -ducts; -duct ed; -duct ing [+ obj] to take (someone) away from a place by force He was abducted [=kidnapped] from his home. She claims that she was abducted by aliens. [=that she was carried away in a spaceship by creatures from another world] ab duct ee b d k ti noun, pl -tees [count] alien abductees [=people who say they were abducted by creatures from another world] ab duc tion b d k ən noun, pl -tions [count] abductions of children [noncount] an increase in the incidence of child abduction ab duc tor b d kt noun, pl -tors [count] She managed to escape from her abductors. abed ə b d adv, literary lying in a bed Though it was long past sunup, she was still abed. ab er rant ə berənt adj [more ~; most ~] formal different from the usual or natural type unusual or abnormal aberrant behavior ab er ra tion bə re ən noun, pl -tions something (such as a problem or a type of behavior) that is unusual or unexpected [count] For her, such a low grade on an exam was an aberration. [noncount] a study of sexual aberration abet ə b t verb abets; abet ted; abet ting [+ obj] formal to help, encourage, or support someone in a criminal act She abetted the thief in his getaway. Did he abet the commission of a crime? Their actions were shown to abet terrorism. She is charged with aiding and abetting [=helping and encouraging] the thief in his getaway. abey ance ə bejəns noun in abeyance formal in a temporary state of being stopped The plans are in abeyance. = The plans are being

3 abhor 3 aboriginal held in abeyance. [=the plans are not now being used] ab hor əb ho verb, -hors; -horred; -hor ring [+ obj] formal to dislike (someone or something) very much They abhor [=hate, loathe] violence/racism. She simply abhors [=despises] exercise and hates to diet. ab hor rence əb horəns noun [noncount] their abhorrence of violence/racism ab hor rent əb horənt adj [more ~; most ~] formal causing or deserving strong dislike or hatred She finds violence in films abhorrent. It was an abhorrent crime. [=a contemptible crime] to The thought of failing is abhorrent to him. [=he hates the thought of failing] abide ə ba d verb abides; abid ed; abid ing 1 [+ obj] to accept or bear (someone or something bad, unpleasant, etc.) I can t abide his bad moods. [=(more commonly) I can t stand his bad moods; I hate his bad moods] 2 [no obj] old-fashioned + literary a past tense also abode to stay or live somewhere abide in the house of the Lord b to remain or continue a love that abided till the end of their lives abide by [phrasal verb] abide by (something) to accept and be guided by (something) OBEY We have to abide by the rules. They promise to abide by our decision. abid ing ə ba d ŋ adj, [more ~; most ~] formal continuing for a long time not changing She has an abiding [=lasting] love of art. They enjoyed an abiding [=enduring] friendship. abil i ty ə b ləti noun, pl -ties the power or skill to do something [count] a young woman with many remarkable musical/artistic/athletic abilities to + a teacher with an ability to inspire his students Does he have the ability [=authority] to fire employees? a writer s ability [=capability, capacity] to interest readers [noncount] a young woman of great musical/artistic/athletic ability She has shown some ability with foreign languages. He always works to the best of his ability. [=as well as he can] -abil i ty also -ibil i ty noun suffix ability, fitness, or likeliness to act or be acted on in (such) a way readability excitability compatibility visibility ab ject b kt adj [more ~; most ~] 1 extremely bad or severe They live in abject misery/poverty. The project ended in abject [=complete, utter] failure. 2 a very humble feeling or showing shame He offered an abject apology. b very weak lacking courage or strength She thought he was an abject coward. ab ject ly b ktli adv abjectly apologetic ab jure b u verb -jures; -jured; -jur ing [+ obj] formal to reject (something) formally He abjured [=renounced] allegiance to his native country. ablaze ə ble z adj, 1 in the process of burning on fire The house was ablaze. Lightning set the building ablaze. 2 glowing with light, color, or emotion with The valley was ablaze with fall foliage. Her eyes were ablaze [=blazing] with anger. able e bəl adj 1 a having the power, skill, money, etc., that is needed to do something He will buy a new car as soon as he is able. to + He will buy a new car as soon as he is able to do so. Is he able to swim? [=can he swim?] They weren t able to afford a vacation. [=they were unable to afford a vacation] I was so tired that I was barely/hardly able to get out of bed. weight lifter is able to lift [=can lift] a very heavy weight. b not prevented from doing something having the freedom or opportunity to do something Come for a visit when you are able (to). to + Will you be able to visit soon? We were able to leave at noon. c used to say that the quality or condition of something makes something possible a car that is able to hold [=can hold] five people The car wasn t able to be repaired. [=could not be repaired] 2 abler; ablest [also more ~; most ~] having skill or talent He turned out to be an able editor/leader/soldier. She is one of the ablest lawyers in the firm. -able also -ible adj suffix 1 fit for or worthy of being lovable collectible 2 likely to or capable of breakable perishable 3 having a certain quality knowledgeable peaceable able bod ied e bəl bb did adj [more ~; most ~] having a healthy and strong body physically fit We need several able-bodied men and women to help with the project. ab lu tion ə blu ən noun, pl -tions [count] formal the act of washing yourself ritual ablutions before prayers (humorous) He performed his daily ablutions [=he washed himself] before having breakfast. ab nor mal b no məl adj [more ~; most ~] different from what is normal or average unusual especially in a way that causes problems abnormal behavior The results of the blood test were abnormal. ab nor mal ly adv behave abnormally The cells grew abnormally quickly. ab nor mal i ty bn m ləti noun, pl -ties something that is not usual, expected, or normal something that is abnormal [count] The test results showed several genetic abnormalities. [noncount] There was some abnormality in his vision. 1 aboard ə bo d adv on, onto, or within a train, a ship, an airplane, etc. He climbed aboard just as the train was leaving. Everyone aboard was injured in the accident. a ll aboard! 2 aboard prep on or into (a train, ship, etc.) We went aboard (the) ship. She got aboard [=on board] the train. 1 abode ə bo d noun, pl abodes [count] formal + humorous the place where someone lives The cottage became their abode [=home] for the summer. Welcome to my humble abode. How long has this been his principal place of abode? [=the place where he usually lives] He has no fixed abode. [=no home, no permanent address] 2 abode past tense of BIDE 2a abol ish ə bb l verb -ish es; -ished; -ish ing [+ obj] to officially end or stop (something, such as a law) to completely do away with (something) abolish slavery/apartheid He is in favor of abolishing the death penalty. ab o li tion bə l noun [noncount] the act of officially ending or stopping something the act of abolishing something the abolition of a law; the act of abolishing slavery a proponent of abolition ab o li tion ist bə l st noun, pl -ists [count] a person who wants to stop or abolish slavery bomb e bb m noun, pl -bombs [count] TOMIC BOMB abom i na ble ə bb mənəbəl adj [more ~; most ~] formal very bad or unpleasant It was an abominable crime. We had abominable [=terrible] weather all week. His behavior was abominable. abom i na bly ə bb mənəbli adv He behaved abominably. abom i nate ə bb mə ne t verb -nates; -nat ed; -nat ing [+ obj] formal to feel great hatred for (someone or something) BHOR a politician who is revered by his supporters and abominated by his enemies abom i na tion ə bb mə ne ən noun, pl -tions [count] something that causes disgust or hatred Some people view the sculpture as art while others see it as an abomination. 1 ab orig i nal bə r ən adj, 1 of or relating to the people and things that have been in a region from the earliest time aboriginal [=native] plant species aboriginal tribes/customs/art 2 of or relating to the native people of ustralia

4 aboriginal 4 above of or relating to ustralian aborigines the aboriginal peoples of ustralia 2 aboriginal noun, pl -nals [count] BORIGINE ab orig i ne bə r əni noun, pl -nes [count] 1 a member of the original people to live in an area North merican aborigines [=natives] 2 or borigine a member of any of the native peoples of ustralia abort ə bo t verb aborts; abort ed; abort ing 1 [+ obj] to end a pregnancy deliberately by causing the death of the fetus They decided to abort the pregnancy. abort a fetus 2 to stop something before it is completed because of problems or danger [+ obj] abort the launch of a rocket abort a computer program I suggest that you abort the project. The mission had to be aborted. [no obj] When problems occurred during the launch, it was necessary to abort. aborted adj an aborted mission He made several aborted [=abortive] attempts to escape. abor tion ə bo ən noun, pl -tions a medical procedure used to end a pregnancy and cause the death of the fetus [count] a doctor who performs abortions She chose to have/get an abortion. [noncount] demonstrators opposed to abortion abortion laws/rights abor tive ə bo t v adj failing to achieve the desired result not successful He made several abortive [=aborted] attempts to escape. an abortive coup abound ə ba nd verb abounds; abound ed; abound ing [no obj] to be present in large numbers or in great quantity a business in which opportunities abound [=a business in which there are many opportunities] They live in a region where oil abounds. abound in/with [phrasal verb] abound in/with (something) to be filled with (something) to contain a very large amount of (something) They live in a region that abounds in/with oil. a stream abounding in/with fish 1 about ə ba t adv 1 a almost or nearly We re about ready to go. I m about starved. re you about finished? This one is about as bad as that one. That s about all I know at this point. It s about time to go. That s about all the time we have. We tried just about everything we could think of. Is there anything else to do? No, that s about it/all. [=that s it/all; there is nothing else to do] b used to indicate that a number, amount, time, etc., is not exact or certain The repair should cost about [=approximately, roughly] $200. We should leave in about 10 minutes. We got home at about 8 o clock. = (US) We got home around about 8 o clock. = (Brit) We got home round about 8 o clock. [=it was approximately 8 o clock when we got home] 2 very close to doing something to + He is about to leave. [=he will be leaving very soon] We re about to join our friends for dinner. Their daughter is about to graduate from college. often used with not to stress that someone will not do something not I m not about to quit. [=I am not going to quit; I will not quit] 3 chiefly Brit a in many different directions They wandered about [=around] for several hours. b in many different places People were standing about [=around], talking quietly in small groups. His tools were scattered about [=around] carelessly. c in or near a particular area or place There was no one about. [=there was no one around; there was no one there] 4 in the opposite direction turn about [=(more commonly) around] The captain ordered us to bring the ship about. 2 about prep 1 a used to indicate the object of a thought, feeling, or action There has been a lot of anger about [=concerning] the decision. We did something about the problems. That s what I like about you. What are you so pleased about? I m worried about her. I forgot all about it. There s a question about [=as to] how the problem should be fixed. b used to indicate the subject of something said or written I spoke about my past. She told me all about her vacation. What s he yammering about now? = (Brit) What s he on about now? books about birds a novel about Spain 2 as part of (someone or something) There is a mature wisdom about her. [=she has a quality of mature wisdom] What was the most exciting thing about your vacation? [=what part of your vacation was most exciting?] There s something weird about that guy. [=that guy is weird] 3 used to indicate the most important or basic part or purpose of something good marriage is (all) about trust. [=trust is the most important part of a good marriage] The work he does is all about helping young people. 4 near or not far from (something) in time a night about [=around] midsummer 5 a in the area near to (something or someone) Fish are abundant about [=around] the reefs. b over or in different parts of (a place) He traveled all about [=around] the country. He s a well-known figure about [=around, throughout] the town. c on every side of (something or someone) crowd gathered about [=around] him. They wrapped the blanket about [=around] her. 6 a used to say that something is done quickly or slowly He was slow about doing his work. [=he did his work slowly] If you re going to do that, you need to be quick about it. [=you need to do it quickly] b chiefly Brit in the act or process of doing (something) Do it well while you re about it. [=while you re at it] He seems to know what he s about. [=to know what he s doing] how about see 1 HOW what about see 1 WHT 3 about adj out and about see 1 OUT 1 above ə b v adv 1 in or to a higher place They stood under the tree and looked at the branches above. [=overhead] The stars shone above. [=in the sky] The stairs lead above [=upstairs] to the bedrooms. up above and down below a above below 2 in or to a higher rank or number Students in the grade above [=in the next grade] study algebra. Groups of six and above [=of six or more] need reservations. a game that is suitable for children at/of age 10 and above [=older] 3 above zero 0 Temperatures range from 5 below to 5 above. 4 higher, further up, or earlier on the same page or on a preceding page at a previous point in the same document Write to us at the address shown above. [=at the above address] Except as noted above, all the information can be verified. the person named above = the above-named person from above 1 from a higher place or position It looks like a cross when viewed from above. 2 from someone with greater power or authority waiting for orders from above 2 above prep 1 in or to a higher place than (something) OVER He raised his arms above his head. They hung a mirror above the mantel. We rented an apartment above a restaurant. opposite BELOW 2 greater in number, quantity, or size than (something) more than (something) Temperatures were above average all week. men above 50 years old opposite BELOW 3 a to a greater degree or extent than (something) She values her private time above her fame. b in a higher or more important position than (something) He puts his child s needs above his own. opposite BELOW 4 having more importance or power than (someone) having a higher rank than (someone) captain is above a lieutenant. [=a captain outranks a lieutenant] Who is above him in that department? opposite BELOW 5 too important for (something) not able to be affected by (something) She thinks that she s above criticism/suspicion. [=that

5 above 5 absence she cannot be criticized/suspected] see also above the law at LW 6 too good for (some type of behavior, work, etc.) I thought you were above lying to people. [=I thought such dishonest behavior was beneath you] He was not above cheating when it served his purposes. [=he would cheat when it served his purposes] Does she think she s above that kind of work? [=does she think that kind of work is beneath her?] 7 more loudly and clearly than (another sound) I heard the whistle above [=over] the roar of the crowd. above all as the most important thing ESPECILLY bove all, we must consider what is best for the children. above and beyond far beyond what is required by (something, such as a duty) He went above and beyond the call of duty. [=he did more than his duty required him to do] get above yourself chiefly Brit to think you are more important than you really are We are pleased by his success, but we worry that he might be getting above himself. over and above see 2 OVER 3 above adj mentioned at an earlier point in the same document written above You can contact me at the above address. [=at the address shown above] the above something that is mentioned at an earlier point in the same document If any of the above is incorrect, please let me know. Contact any of the above [=any of the people mentioned above] for more information. The correct answer is none of the above. above board ə b v bo d adj [more ~; most ~] open, honest, and legal The committee tried to be fair and aboveboard in its hiring. an aboveboard and responsible proposal She acted in a completely open and aboveboard way. above ground ə b v gra nd adj, US located or occurring above the ground an aboveground swimming pool aboveground nuclear tests compare INGROUND, UNDERGROUND; see also above ground at 1 GROUND ab ra ca dab ra brəkə d brə interj used as a word with magical power by a performer doing a magic trick The magician said bracadabra! and the coin disappeared! abrade ə bre d verb abrades; abrad ed; abrad ing [+ obj] to damage (something) by rubbing, grinding, or scraping skin abraded by shaving abra sion ə bre ʒən noun, pl -sions 1 [count] an injury caused by something that rubs or scrapes against the skin She fell and suffered cuts, bruises, and abrasions [=scrapes] on her legs. 2 [noncount] the act or process of damaging or wearing away something by rubbing, grinding, or scraping abrasion of rocks by wind and water 1 abra sive ə bre s v adj [more ~; most ~] 1 a causing damage or wear by rubbing, grinding, or scraping of or relating to abrasion The waves had an abrasive action on the rocks. b having a rough quality an abrasive surface used for rubbing something to make it smooth or shiny an abrasive material an abrasive cleaner 2 very unpleasant or irritating He offended people with his abrasive [=irritating, grating] manner/personality. abrasive [=rude, offensive] comments abra sive ly adv an abrasively obnoxious manner/personality abra sive ness noun [noncount] 2 abrasive noun, pl -sives [count] a substance that is used for rubbing something to make it smooth, shiny, or clean an abrasive substance abreast ə br st adv used to describe two or more people or things that are next to each other in a line columns/rows of five men abreast = columns/rows of men five abreast with seats two abreast on each side of the aisle abreast of 1 next to (someone or something) nother runner drew abreast of her. [=drew alongside her] 2 aware of or informed about (new occurrences, facts, etc.) She is always abreast of the latest political news. He likes to keep/stay abreast of the news. abridge ə br verb abridg es; abridged; abridg ing [+ obj] 1 to shorten (a book, a play, etc.) by leaving out some parts abridge a dictionary by omitting rare/uncommon words see also UNBRIDGED 2 formal to lessen the strength or effect of (something, such as a right) unlawful attempts to abridge [=curtail, weaken] freedom of speech abridged adj an abridged dictionary an abridged edition/ version of a novel abridg ment or abridge ment ə br mənt noun, pl -ments [count] an abridgment of a book an abridgment of their right to freedom of speech [noncount] a dictionary shortened by abridgment abroad ə brb d adv 1 in or to a foreign country an actress who is popular both here and abroad both at home and abroad He hopes to study/travel/work/go abroad next year. The family came here from abroad [=from a foreign country] three years ago. 2 formal going from one person to the next talked about or known about by many people There are rumors abroad that the company is in trouble. feeling of unease has been abroad these last few weeks. 3 old-fashioned away from your home She doesn t go walking abroad [=outside] at night. ab ro gate brə ge t verb -gates; -gat ed; -gat ing [+ obj] formal 1 to end or cancel (something) in a formal and official way abrogate a law abrogate a treaty 2 to fail to do what is required by (something, such as a responsibility) The company s directors are accused of abrogating their responsibilities. ab ro ga tion brə ge ən noun, pl -tions [count, noncount] abrupt ə br pt adj [more ~; most ~] 1 very sudden and not expected There was an abrupt change in the weather. The road came to an abrupt end. The storm caused an abrupt power failure. 2 a talking to other people in a very brief and unfriendly way He is friendly with customers but abrupt (in his dealings) with his employees. She has an abrupt manner. b rudely brief an abrupt [=curt, brusque] reply abrupt ly adv The party ended abruptly when the police arrived. She turned abruptly and walked away. The land dropped off abruptly. abrupt ness noun [singular] There is an abruptness in her manner. [noncount] I was surprised by the abruptness of her manner. abs plural of B BS abbr antilock braking system ab scess b s s noun, pl -scess es [count] medical a painful area of inflamed tissue that is filled with pus ab scessed b s st adj an abscessed tooth [=an infected tooth that has caused an abscess in the gum] ab scond b skb nd verb -sconds; -scond ed; -scond ing [no obj] formal 1 to go away or escape from a place secretly The suspect absconded to Canada. Several prisoners absconded from the jail. 2 to go away and take something that does not belong to you + with a banker who absconded with all the money ab scond er noun, pl -ers [count] ab sence bsəns noun, pl -senc es 1 [singular] a state or condition in which something expected, wanted, or looked for is not present or does not exist a state or condition in which something is absent There was an absence [=lack] of enthusiasm in the crowd. [=the crowd was not enthusiastic] The products showed a remarkable

6 absent 6 absorb absence of defects. In the absence of reform [=without reform], progress was slow. With the (continued) absence of rain [=because of the lack of rain], crops have begun to dry up. 2 [count] a a failure to be present at a usual or expected place He had many absences from work. I expected to see her and was surprised by her absence. He was conspicuous by his absence. [=it was very noticeable that he was not present] b a period of time when someone is not present at a place, job, etc. She returned to the company after a long/prolonged absence. see also LEVE OF BSENCE a absence makes the heart grow fonder She ll be away for a month, but you know what they say absence makes the heart grow fonder. in someone s absence 1 while someone is away The study was completed in her absence. 2 in the place of someone who is not present He was asked to speak in his brother s absence. 1 ab sent bsənt adj 1 not present at a usual or expected place They were talking about absent friends. [=friends who were not there] an absent father who is not home most of the time The soldier was absent without leave. [=WOL; absent without having permission to be absent] Most of the executives attended the meeting, but the company president was conspicuously absent. [=conspicuous by his absence; it was very noticeable that the company president was not there] from She was absent from work/school on three occasions. 2 not present at all not existing a gene that occurs in mammals but that is absent in birds a landscape in which vegetation is almost entirely absent from Vegetation is almost entirely absent from the landscape. 3 showing that a person is thinking about something else showing a lack of attention to what is happening or being said He made an absent reply to her question as he continued to watch the TV. There was an absent [=distracted] look on her face. ab sent ly adv He replied absently to her question. 2 ab sent b s nt verb -sents; -sent ed; -sent ing absent yourself formal to go or stay away from something He absented himself from the meeting. 3 ab sent bsənt prep, US, formal in the absence of (something) WITHOUT bsent any objections, the plan will proceed. bsent such an agreement we can go no further. ab sen tee bsən ti noun, pl -tees [count] a person who is not present in a usual or expected place a person who is absent There were 10 sick absentees that day. absentee ballot noun, pl -lots [count] US a vote that is submitted before an election by a voter who is not able to be present when the election occurs absentee landlord noun, pl -lords [count] someone who owns and rents property but does not live on or near the property and rarely visits it ab sent mind ed bsənt ma ndəd adj tending to forget things or to not notice things having or showing a lack of attention Her absentminded husband forgot their anniversary. She did the chores in an absentminded way. ab sent mind ed ly adv Her husband absentmindedly forgot their anniversary. ab sent mind ed ness noun [noncount] She mislaid her keys in a fit of absentmindedness. [=absence of mind] ab so lute bsə lu t adj 1 complete and total You can t predict the future with absolute certainty. I have absolute faith/confidence in her ability to get the job done. He swore an oath of absolute secrecy. When it comes to using computers, I m an absolute beginner. often used informally to make a statement more forceful I swear that what I m telling you is the absolute truth. He was an absolute disgrace to his family. That s absolute nonsense/rubbish! (US) That restaurant serves the absolute best Mexican food I ve ever eaten. [=that restaurant serves absolutely the best Mexican food I ve ever eaten] the most absolute That s the most absolute nonsense/rubbish I ever heard! 2 a not limited in any way a ruler with absolute power = a ruler whose power is absolute absolute authority b having unlimited power The country is ruled by an absolute dictator/monarch. c ruled by someone with unlimited power The country is an absolute monarchy. 3 not allowing any doubt He says that he has absolute [=certain] proof that his client is innocent. 4 a never changing always true or real You have the absolute right to remain silent. an absolute requirement = a requirement that is absolute absolute [=unqualified] freedom b not depending on or compared with anything else The company has grown in absolute terms, but its share of the market is actually less than it was a few years ago. ab so lute ness noun [noncount] the absoluteness of the king s power the absoluteness of his certainty ab so lute ly bsə lu tli adv 1 in an absolute way a completely or totally He is absolutely certain who will win. Let me make one thing absolutely clear. Keep absolutely quiet during the movie. We had an absolutely wonderful time. I absolutely love the car. His fans have gone absolutely crazy over his latest CD. That restaurant serves absolutely the best food I ve ever eaten. b with unlimited power The king ruled absolutely. 2 used in speech as a forceful way of saying yes or of expressing agreement Would you like to see a movie tonight? bsolutely! We all need to work harder. bsolutely! a absolutely not Do you think he s right? bsolutely not! absolute zero noun [noncount] technical the temperature that is believed to be the lowest possible temperature a C F ab so lu tion bsə lu ən noun [noncount] formal the act of forgiving someone for having done something wrong or sinful the act of absolving someone or the state of being absolved He asked the priest to give/grant him absolution for his sins. ab solve əb zb lv verb -solves; -solved; -solv ing [+ obj] formal 1 to make (someone) free from guilt, responsibility, etc. He was absolved of the responsibility of repaying the loan. [=he was not required to repay the loan] His youth does not absolve him from being guilty for these crimes. = His youth does not absolve him of guilt for these crimes. 2 to give forgiveness to (someone who has sinned) or for (a sin) He asked the priest to absolve him (of his sins). = He asked the priest to absolve his sins. ab sorb əb so b verb -sorbs; -sorbed; -sorb ing [+ obj] 1 a to take in (something, such as a liquid) in a natural or gradual way sponge absorbs water. Plant roots absorb moisture. a fabric that absorbs sweat (be) absorbed Water is absorbed by plants through their roots. nutrients that are absorbed into the body b to draw in (heat, light, energy, etc.) The walls are made of a material that absorbs sound. absorbing heat from the sun 2 a to learn (something) She is good at absorbing information/knowledge. He has retained the values that he absorbed as a young man. b to take in and make (something) part of a larger group, country, etc. a country that has absorbed many immigrants smaller countries invaded and absorbed by/into bigger ones 3 to take up the whole interest or attention of (someone) His interest in photography absorbs him completely. I was so absorbed by her story that I lost track of time. a (be) absorbed in She was (completely) absorbed in [=lost in] thought. He quickly found himself

7 absorbent 7 abuse absorbed in [=engrossed by] the movie. 4 to prevent (something harmful or unwanted) from passing through The frame of the car absorbed the impact. 5 a to accept or deal with (something that is difficult, harmful, etc.) The company has had to absorb many setbacks in the past year. The expenses were absorbed [=borne] by his family. b to use up (something) His work absorbs almost all of his time. ab sorb able əb so bəbəl adj [more ~; most ~] nutrients absorbable by the body ab sorb er noun, pl -ers [count] a moisture absorber see also SHOCK BSORBER absorbing adj [more ~; most ~] The book includes an absorbing [=engrossing, fascinating] account of her childhood. ab sorp tion əb so p ən noun [noncount] the absorption of water by a sponge the absorption of nutrients by the body heat/noise absorption His absorption in his work was total. [=he was totally absorbed in his work; he gave all his attention to his work] ab sor bent əb so bənt adj [more ~; most ~] able to take in and hold liquid able to absorb liquid an absorbent cotton fabric highly/very absorbent paper towels ab sor ben cy əb so bənsi noun [noncount] ab stain əb ste n verb -stains; -stained; -stain ing [no obj] 1 to choose not to do or have something from He abstained from taking part in the discussion. I need to abstain from eating [=I need to not eat] for at least 12 hours before my blood test. abstain from (drinking) alcohol 2 to choose not to vote Ten members voted for the proposal, six members voted against it, and two abstained. ab stain er noun, pl -ers [count] ab ste mi ous b sti mijəs adj [more ~; most ~] formal not eating and drinking too much She is known as an abstemious eater and drinker. an abstemious diet ab ste mi ous ly adv ab ste mi ous ness noun [noncount] ab sten tion əb st n ən noun, pl -tions the act or practice of abstaining a [noncount] the act of choosing not to do or have something He started drinking again after a long period of abstention. [=abstinence] from abstention from drugs and alcohol b a formal refusal to vote on something [count] There were 10 ayes, 6 nays, and 2 abstentions when the vote was taken. [noncount] a high rate of voter abstention ab sti nence bstənəns noun [noncount] the practice of not doing or having something that is wanted or enjoyable the practice of abstaining from something The program promoted sexual abstinence for young people. from abstinence from sex He started drinking again after a long period of total/complete abstinence from alcohol. ab sti nent bstənənt adj He stopped drinking and has remained totally abstinent. 1 ab stract b str kt, b str kt adj [more ~; most ~] 1 relating to or involving general ideas or qualities rather than specific people, objects, or actions abstract thinking abstract ideas/concepts such as love and hate Honesty is an abstract word. The word poem is concrete, the word poetry is abstract. opposite 2 CONCRETE 2 2 of art expressing ideas and emotions by using elements such as colors and lines without attempting to create a realistic picture abstract art an abstract painting/painter ab stract ly b str ktli adv a child learning to think abstractly ab stract ness b str ktnəs noun [noncount] 2 ab stract b str kt noun, pl -stracts [count] 1 a brief written statement of the main points or facts in a longer report, speech, etc. SUMMRY 2 an abstract work of art (such as a painting) an artist admired for his abstracts in the abstract without referring to a specific person, object, or event in a general way thinking about freedom in the abstract 3 ab stract b str kt verb -stracts; -stract ed; -stract ing [+ obj] 1 to make a summary of the main parts of (a report, speech, etc.) to make an abstract of (something) abstract [=summarize] an academic paper 2 to obtain or remove (something) from a source Data for the study was abstracted from hospital records. 3 chiefly Brit, humorous to steal (something) She accused him of abstracting [=pinching] some money from her purse. ab strac tion b str k ən noun, pl -tions 1 [noncount] the act of obtaining or removing something from a source the act of abstracting something abstraction of data from hospital records 2 formal a general idea or quality rather than an actual person, object, or event an abstract idea or quality [count] Beauty and truth are abstractions. [noncount] the abstraction [=abstract quality] of his ideas 3 [noncount] somewhat formal the state of someone who is not paying attention to what is happening or being said an abstracted state She gazed out the window in abstraction. ab struse əb stru s adj [more ~; most ~] formal hard to understand Her subject matter is abstruse. abstruse [=obscure] concepts/ideas/theories ab struse ly adv ab struse ness noun [noncount] ab surd əb s d adj [more ~; most ~] extremely silly, foolish, or unreasonable completely ridiculous an absurd situation The charges against him are obviously/patently absurd. an absurd idea/suggestion/ argument absurd humor the absurd 1 a state or condition of extreme silliness or foolishness an absurd or ridiculous state Her ideas once seemed reasonable, but now they verge on the absurd. 2 things that are absurd a filmmaker who is fascinated with the absurd ab sur di ty əb s dəti noun, pl -ties [noncount] They laughed at the absurdity of the situation. [count] the absurdities of life ab surd ly adv The directions were absurdly complicated. absurdly high prices abun dance ə b ndəns noun a large amount of something an abundant amount of something [singular] The city has an abundance of fine restaurants. [=has many fine restaurants] a plant with an abundance of flowers [noncount] a plant known for the abundance of its flowers We are fortunate to live in a time of great abundance. [=a time when there is much food, money, etc.] in abundance in large amounts The city has fine restaurants in abundance. The flowers grew in great abundance. abun dant ə b ndənt adj [more ~; most ~] existing or occurring in large amounts Rainfall is more abundant in summer. It is the most abundant bird in the forest. an abundant supply of food He offers abundant evidence that he is right. a society abundant in things to buy/do synonyms see PLENTIFUL abun dant ly adv flowers blooming/growing abundantly It is abundantly [=extremely] clear/obvious that this problem will not be easily solved. 1 abuse ə bju z verb abus es; abused; abus ing [+ obj] 1 to treat (a person or animal) in a harsh or harmful way He abused [=mistreated] his wife both mentally and physically. abuse a dog He was accused of sexually/physically/psychologically abusing a child. 2 to use or treat (something) in a way that causes damage He abused his body with years of heavy drinking. He had abused his first car by not taking care of it. 3 to use (something) wrongly abuse [=misuse] a privilege She abused her friend s trust. a senator who abuses his power He abused my confidence by

8 abuse 8 accent letting this secret be known. 4 to use too much of (a drug, alcohol, etc.) a drug that is abused by many people He was known to abuse alcohol. 5 to attack (someone) in words The fans were verbally abusing the referee. abused adj providing help for abused children/women abus er noun, pl -ers [count] a child abuser officeholders who are abusers of privilege alcohol/cocaine/drug/substance abusers 2 abuse ə bju s noun, pl abus es 1 the act or practice of abusing someone or something a harmful treatment of a person or animal [noncount] He subjected his wife to physical and emotional abuse. child abuse sexual abuse [plural] The government has been accused of human rights abuses. [=of violating the basic rights of people by treating them wrongly] b [noncount] the use or treatment of something in a way that causes damage his abuse [=mistreatment] of his body through poor eating habits These toys can stand up to a lot of abuse. [=can be handled roughly without being damaged] c the act or practice of using something wrongly [noncount] the governor s abuse [=misuse] of his power/ privileges [count] the buying of votes and other election abuses d [noncount] the act or practice of using too much of a drug, alcohol, etc. abuse of alcohol drug/substance abuse 2 [noncount] harsh and insulting language She was subjected to every term of abuse her boss could think of. a torrent/stream of verbal abuse The prisoner hurled/shouted/screamed abuse at the judge. abu sive ə bju s v adj [more ~; most ~] 1 using harsh and insulting language He spoke to her in an abusive manner. = He was abusive when he spoke to her. abusive language The fans yelled abusive comments to the referee. a verbally abusive fan 2 using or involving physical violence or emotional cruelty an abusive parent protecting wives from abusive husbands people in abusive relationships abu sive ly adv The boss treated the staff abusively. abusive ness noun [noncount] abut ə b t verb abuts; abut ted; abut ting formal to touch along an edge [+ obj] Their property abuts [=adjoins] our property. = Their property and our property abut each other. [=their property is directly next to our property; an edge of their property touches an edge of our property] [no obj] Their property and our property abut. on Their property abuts on our property. abut ter ə b t noun, pl -ters [count] abut ment ə b tmənt noun, pl -ments [count] technical a heavy structure that supports something (such as a bridge) The car crashed into a bridge abutment. abys mal ə b zməl adj [more ~; most ~] extremely poor or bad They were living in abysmal ignorance/poverty. abysmal [=horrible] living conditions The team had an abysmal [=awful] record. Her grades were abysmal. [=terrible] abys mal ly adv abysmally ignorant The house is in abysmally poor condition. abyss ə b s noun, pl abyss es [count] a hole so deep or a space so great that it cannot be measured the ocean s abysses I stood at the edge of the cliff and gazed down into the yawning/gaping abyss. [=chasm] He says that there is a widening abyss between the rich and the poor. She was pulled down into an abyss of despair. C abbr 1 US air-conditioning an apartment equipped with C 2 alternating current aca cia ə ke ə noun, pl -cias [count] a shrub or tree that grows in warm regions and that has white or yellow flowers 1 ac a dem ic kə d m k adj 1 of or relating to schools and education She received awards for her academic achievements/accomplishments. I spent my academic career at one school. The board set tough academic standards for graduation. He was offered a teaching job and decided to return to academic life. 2 having no practical importance not involving or relating to anything real or practical His interest in sailing is purely academic. He s not a sailor himself. It was a question of only academic [=theoretical] interest. 3 [more ~; most ~] chiefly Brit good at studying and at passing exams good at academics He s not very academic, but he s good with his hands. ac a dem i cal ly kə d m kli adv He did well enough academically to be accepted at many colleges. an academically gifted student 2 academic noun, pl -ics 1 [count] a person who is a teacher in a college or university The book appeals to academics and to the general public. 2 academics [plural] chiefly US courses of study taken at a school or college She excelled at academics. He only cares about sports. He has no interest in academics. acad e my ə k dəmi noun, pl -mies [count] 1 a a school that provides training in special subjects or skills a military/naval academy a riding/tennis academy b US a private high school a student at Smith cademy 2 an organization of people who work to support art, science, or literature the National cademy of Sciences a Fellow of the Royal cademy ac cede k si d verb -cedes; -ced ed; -ced ing [no obj] formal 1 to agree to a request or a demand to The government was forced to accede to their demands. 2 to enter a high office or position His son acceded upon the king s death. to He acceded to the throne [=he became king] in ac cel er ate k s lə re t verb -ates; -at ed; -at ing 1 to move faster to gain speed [no obj] She stepped on the gas and the car accelerated. The plane accelerated down the runway. [+ obj] She stepped on the gas and accelerated the car. opposite DECELERTE 2 to cause (something) to happen sooner or more quickly [+ obj] He says that cutting taxes will help to accelerate economic growth. Conditions accelerated our departure. [=conditions caused us to depart sooner] [no obj] The rate of economic growth has continued to accelerate. accelerated adj Changes have occurred at an accelerated pace/rate. She s taking an accelerated course in English. [=a course in which English is taught at a faster pace than usual] accelerating adj an accelerating rate ac cel er a tion k s lə re ən noun 1 the act or process of moving faster or happening more quickly the act or process of accelerating [noncount] The car delivers quick/rapid acceleration. The car has good acceleration. [=the car is able to accelerate quickly] There has been some acceleration in economic growth. [singular] There has been an acceleration in economic growth. 2 [noncount] physics the rate at which the speed of a moving object changes over time ac cel er a tor k s lə re t noun, pl -tors [count] 1 a pedal in a vehicle that is pressed down to make the vehicle go faster hit/press the accelerator = step on the accelerator called also (US) gas pedal; see picture at CR 2 technical a machine that causes charged particles (such as electrons and protons) to move at extremely high speeds a particle accelerator 1 ac cent k s nt, Brit ksənt noun, pl -cents 1 [count] a way of pronouncing words that occurs among the people in a particular region or country Regional accents are common in the U.S. She spoke with an merican/english accent. The tourist had a foreign accent. He has a heavy/thick southern accent. a slight/light/faint accent a French/German/Italian accent 2 [count] greater stress or force given to a syllable of a word in speech The

9 accent 9 accession word before has the accent on the last syllable. Put the accent on the first syllable of the word. 3 [count] a a mark (such as or ) used to show the part of a word that should be given greater stress when it is spoken ( called also accent mark b a mark placed above a letter to show how it should be pronounced The accents in the French word émigré show how the letter e should be pronounced. called also accent mark 4 [singular] special concern or attention EMPHSIS on This year s new TV shows put/place the/an accent on youth. Our accent is on providing our customers with dependable service. 5 [count] a small decorative object or detail that is different from the things that are around it This type of plant is often used as a decorative accent. used accents of bright colors in the new room accent colors/lighting/plants 2 ac cent k s nt, Brit ək s nt verb -cents; -cent ed; -cent ing [+ obj] 1 to give special attention to (something) His speech accented [=highlighted, emphasized] positive parts of the plan. 2 to say (part of a word) with greater stress or force When you say before, you should accent the second syllable. = You should accent the word before on the second syllable. ac cen tu ate k s n ə we t verb -ates; -at ed; -at ing [+ obj] to make (something) more noticeable He likes to wear clothes that accentuate his muscular build. We felt that the article accentuated [=emphasized] the positive aspects of the program. ac cen tu ation k s n ə we ən noun [noncount] ac cept k s pt verb -cepts; -cept ed; -cept ing 1 a to receive or take (something offered) [+ obj] accept a gift accept a proposal accept a bribe accept an assignment/invitation/offer They offered him the job, and he accepted it. [no obj] They offered him the job, and he accepted. b [+ obj] to take (something) as payment The store doesn t accept credit cards. c [+ obj] to be able or designed to take or hold (something) a surface that will not accept ink a computer program ready to accept commands 2 [+ obj] to agree to (something) to agree to receive or allow (something) accept a telephone call They accepted some applications and rejected others. She s still trying to get her manuscript accepted for publication. I accept your apology. They refused to accept his resignation. 3 [+ obj] a to think of (something) as true, proper, or normal a word that has come to be accepted as standard This treatment is now accepted by many doctors. He refused to accept the decision. I accepted his advice and joined the health club. They accepted [=believed] her explanation. The theory is widely accepted as correct. = It is widely accepted that the theory is correct. b to stop denying or resisting (something true or necessary) She found it difficult to accept change. The truth is sometimes hard to accept. He behaved badly, and now he has to accept the consequences. He has to accept the fact that his baseball career is over. [=he has to admit that his baseball career is over] He was unwilling to accept [=believe] that he could no longer play as he once had. c to admit that you have or deserve (something, such as blame or responsibility) accept blame I accept responsibility for the accident. d to be willing to have or experience (something) To be a successful investor you have to accept some risk. She accepted [=took on, faced] the challenge of starting her own business. 4 [+ obj] a to allow (someone) to join a club, to attend a school, etc. The club accepted her as a member but rejected her sister. She was accepted at/by Georgetown University. b to regard (someone) as belonging to a group She felt that her in-laws had never really accepted her (as a member of the family). She doesn t yet feel accepted (by her in-laws). The new family was quickly accepted into the community. accepted adj an accepted practice an accepted definition a widely accepted truth ac cept er or ac cep tor k s pt noun, pl -ters or -tors [count] ac cept able k s ptəbəl adj [more ~; most ~] 1 capable or worthy of being accepted acceptable and unacceptable noise levels an acceptable excuse socially acceptable behavior to We re trying to find a solution that will be acceptable to everyone. 2 fairly good STISFCTORY It was an acceptable performance, although not an outstanding one. She plays an acceptable game of tennis. ac cept abil i ty k s ptə b ləti noun [noncount] accept ably k s ptəbli adv ac cep tance k s ptəns noun [noncount] 1 the act of accepting something or someone acceptance of a gift acceptance of the truth acceptance of responsibility her acceptance into the club The university has sent me a letter of acceptance. He delivered an acceptance speech after he was chosen as the party s presidential nominee. 2 the quality or state of being accepted or acceptable His theories have won/gained/found general/widespread acceptance. [=many people regard his theories as correct] 1 ac cess k s s noun [noncount] 1 a way of getting near, at, or to something or someone ll public buildings should provide wheelchair access. [=a way for people in wheelchairs to enter] The cup holders are placed for easy access. [=so that they can be easily reached] to The town wants to increase public access to beaches. dirt road provides access to the home. 2 a way of being able to use or get something We have Internet access at the library. to We have access to the Internet at the library. I don t have access to a car right now. [=I don t have a car that I can use right now] Patients need better access to medical care. increasing children s access to education They tried to gain illegal access to the company s network. see also CCESS TIME 3 permission or the right to enter, get near, or make use of something or to have contact with someone to They refused to give the police access to their home. divorced parents who want increased/improved access to their children Investigators are trying to gain/get access to his financial records. [=trying to get the right to see his financial records] He was granted/denied access to the report. [=he was given/refused permission to see the report] 2 access verb -cess es; -cessed; -cess ing [+ obj] to gain access to (something) a to be able to use, enter, or get near (something) The new system makes it easier to access the money in your bank account. Your favorite radio stations can be accessed at the touch of a button. b to open or load (a computer file, an Internet site, etc.) The file loads every time you access the Web site. The file can be accessed by many users at the same time. She could work at home by remotely accessing the company s network. You ll need a password to access the database. ac ces si ble k s səbəl adj [more ~; most ~] 1 able to be reached or approached The inn is accessible by train and bus. The mall is accessible from the highway. 2 able to be used or obtained to The information should be accessible [=available] to all. 3 easy to appreciate or understand His writing is more accessible now than it once was. [=is more easily understood now] It is a fascinating and accessible book. accessible art 4 of a person easy to speak to or deal with You ll find that the teachers here are quite accessible. ac ces si bil i ty k s sə b ləti noun [noncount] the easy accessibility of the beach the accessibility of her art ac ces si bly k s səbli adv [more ~; most ~] He writes accessibly about complex topics. ac ces sion k s ən noun, pl -sions formal 1 [noncount] the act or process by which someone rises to a powerful and important position the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to Queen Victoria s accession to the crown/throne occurred in [=she became queen in 1837] upon his accession to the Supreme Court the king s accession to power 2 [count] something that is added to a collection at a museum

10 accessory 10 accompaniment The museum has put its latest accessions [=acquisitions] on display. ac ces so ry k s səri noun, pl -ries [count] 1 something added to something else to make it more useful, attractive, or effective fashion/clothing accessories such as scarves, handkerchiefs, bracelets, and rings automotive accessories computer accessories 2 law someone who helps another person commit a crime He is wanted as an accessory to murder. She was charged as an accessory before/after the fact. [=someone who helps a criminal before/after a crime has been committed] ac ci dent ksədənt noun, pl -dents [count] 1 a sudden event (such as a crash) that is not planned or intended and that causes damage or injury We got in a car accident. = We had a car accident. a traffic accident a fatal accident a motorcycle accident He was injured in an accident at work. The accident happened when her car slid on a patch of ice. Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the accident. I m sorry that I broke the bowl. That s OK. It was just an accident. = That s OK. ccidents will happen. a accident waiting to happen My brother is the clumsiest person I know. He s just an accident waiting to happen. 2 an event that is not planned or intended an event that occurs by chance Their meeting was an accident. It is just an accident that they arrived when they did. She says that her pregnancy was an accident. His wealth is a mere accident of birth. [=he is wealthy only because he was born into a wealthy family] He says that no one is to blame for his illness. It was just an accident of nature. [=something that happened naturally] It is no accident that the assistant he hired is so good-looking. [=he deliberately chose a good-looking person to be his assistant] by accident in a way that is not planned or intended They met by accident. [=by chance] She says that she became pregnant by accident. [=unintentionally] Scientists discovered the vaccine almost/quite/entirely by accident. Did it happen by accident [=accidentally] or by design? ac ci den tal ksə d nt adj happening in a way that is not planned or intended happening by accident an accidental discovery of oil The timing of the announcement was purely accidental. happening as an accident an accidental shooting The death was ruled accidental. ac ci den tal ly ksə d nt i adv He accidentally deleted the file. The lock prevents the gate from opening accidentally. Did it happen accidentally [=by accident] or intentionally? He bumped into her accidentally on purpose. [=he bumped into her on purpose but he tried to make it appear to be an accident] accident prone adj [more ~; most ~] tending to have many accidents He is clumsy and accident-prone. 1 ac claim ə kle m noun [noncount] strong approval or praise Her performance in the ballet earned her critical acclaim. She deserves acclaim for all her charitable works. 2 acclaim verb -claims; -claimed; -claim ing [+ obj] to praise (someone or something) in a very strong and enthusiastic way The critics have acclaimed her performance. (be) acclaimed Her performance was acclaimed by the critics. He has been acclaimed as one of the best players in the league. acclaimed adj [more ~; most ~] a critically acclaimed drama/ performance a highly/hugely/widely acclaimed play the city s most acclaimed restaurants ac cla ma tion klə me ən noun [noncount] 1 strong and enthusiastic approval or praise Her performance in the ballet earned her thunderous applause and shouts of acclamation from the audience. She has earned worldwide acclamation for her charitable works. 2 a vote to accept or approve someone or something that is done by cheers, shouts, or applause by acclamation The legislature passed the bill by acclamation. The president was elected by acclamation. ac cli mate klə me t, Brit ə kla mət verb -mates; -mat ed; -mat ing US to adjust or adapt to a new climate, place, or situation to [no obj] He was never really able to acclimate to the hot weather. [=to get used to the hot weather] The mountain climbers spent a few days acclimating [=becoming adjusted] to the high altitude. [+ obj] I acclimated myself to the hot weather. You might need to acclimate your plants to bright sunlight gradually. We took a few days to get acclimated to our new teacher. ac cli ma tion klə me ən noun [noncount] ac cli ma tize also Brit ac cli ma tise ə kla mə ta z verb -tiz es; -tized; -tiz ing to adjust or adapt to a new climate, place, or situation CCLIMTE to [no obj] The mountain climbers spent a few days acclimatizing [=becoming adjusted] to the high altitude. [+ obj] The mountain climbers spent a few days acclimatizing themselves to the high altitude. ac cli ma ti za tion also Brit ac cli ma ti sa tion ə kla mətə ze ən, Brit ə kla mə ta ze ən noun [noncount] ac co lade kə le d noun, pl -lades [count] an award or an expression of praise There is no higher accolade at this school than an honorary degree. She has been winning accolades [=she has been receiving praise] for her performances in small plays. The movie s special effects have drawn accolades from both fans and critics. [=have been praised by both fans and critics] ac com mo date ə kb mə de t verb -dates; -dat ed; -dat ing 1 [+ obj] a to provide room for (someone) to provide a place to stay and sleep for (someone) The hotel can only accommodate about 100 people. [=is only large enough for about 100 people] Over 600 people can be accommodated on the cruise ship. b to have room for (someone or something) The ceilings were too low to accommodate his terrific height. The table accommodates [=seats] 12 comfortably. This ancient stadium could accommodate [=hold] up to 60,000 people. 2 [+ obj] somewhat formal to do something helpful for (someone) They were kind enough to accommodate me with a ride to the train station. to provide what is needed or wanted for (someone or something) I asked them for additional money, and they accommodated me with a loan. He would often change his schedule to accommodate his clients. New facilities are being added to accommodate the special needs of elderly residents. 3 to get used to or become comfortable with something to adapt or adjust to something [no obj] Smart investors quickly accommodated to the new market conditions. [+ obj] Smart investors quickly accommodated themselves to the new market conditions. = Smart investors quickly became accommodated to the new market conditions. accommodating adj [more ~; most ~] willing to do what someone else wants or requests The chef can be very accommodating [=obliging], often cooking meals that aren t even on the menu. She seems less accommodating to the demands of her boss than she used to be. ac com mo da tion ə kb mə de ən noun, pl -tions 1 a accommodations [plural] US a place (such as a room in a hotel) where travelers can sleep and find other services We need overnight accommodations [=lodging] for four people. They weren t sure if they could provide food and accommodations for the whole group. The accommodations on board the boat are a bit cramped. b [noncount] chiefly Brit a place where people can live, stay, or work We need overnight accommodation [=lodging] for four people. office accommodation 2 formal a an agreement that allows people, groups, etc., to work together [singular] He hoped to reach an accommodation with the new owners. [noncount] Negotiators were convinced that accommodation with the union was possible. b something done to provide what is needed or wanted for someone or something [singular] He changed his schedule as an accommodation to his clients. [noncount] Changes were made for the accommodation of differing viewpoints. ac com pa ni ment ə k mpənimənt noun, pl -ments 1 music played to support a person who is singing or playing a musical instrument

11 accompanist 11 account [noncount] She sings without musical accompaniment. [count] She sang the song with a piano accompaniment. She sang the song to the accompaniment of a piano. [=while a piano played] 2 [count] something that is added to another thing to make it better or more appealing nice tie was a fine accompaniment to his new suit.; something added to or served with food or a meal This dish can be served as an accompaniment to/for most meat main dishes. This wine is a good accompaniment for/of spicy foods. 3 [count] something that is done or that happens at the same time as something else She studied Italian as an accompaniment to her classes in art history. She made the announcement to the accompaniment of loud applause. [=there was loud applause while she made the announcement] ac com pa nist ə k mpən st noun, pl -nists [count] someone who plays a musical instrument while another person is singing or playing the main part someone who plays an accompaniment He will be her accompanist on the piano. ac com pa ny ə k mpəni verb -nies; -nied; -ny ing [+ obj] 1 to go somewhere with (someone) to be a companion for (someone) She will accompany me to the store. Ten adults accompanied the class on their field trip. Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult to see this movie. 2 a to go together with (something) to be included with (something) delicious sauce accompanied the grilled fish. (be) accompanied The text is accompanied by over 100 photographs and charts. b to happen or occur at the same time as or along with (something) (be) accompanied Low rates of unemployment are often accompanied by high inflation. The thunderstorm was accompanied by high winds. 3 to play music with (someone who is singing or playing the main tune) to perform an accompaniment for (someone) He will be accompanying her on the piano. accompanying adj Call the phone number in the accompanying booklet for further information. ac com plice ə kb mpləs noun, pl -plic es [count] a person who works with or helps someone who is doing something wrong or illegal He was convicted as an accomplice to murder. a murderer s accomplice She was an unwitting accomplice to tax fraud. [=she didn t know that she was helping someone to commit tax fraud] ac com plish ə kb mpl verb -plish es; -plished; -plish ing [+ obj] to succeed in doing (something) They have accomplished [=done, achieved] much in a very short period of time. He finally felt like he had accomplished [=done] something important. There are several different ways to accomplish the same task. It s amazing what you can accomplish [=do] through/with hard work. Exactly what he thought he would accomplish is unclear. ac com plish able ə kbmpl əbəl adj [more ~; most ~] accomplished adj [more ~; most ~] 1 very skillful having or showing the skill of an expert an accomplished [=expert] pianist/artist/writer She has the confidence of an accomplished athlete. an accomplished [=excellent] performance 2 very successful having done or achieved many good or important things He is one of the school s most accomplished graduates. ac com plish ment ə kb mpl mənt noun, pl -ments 1 [count] something done, achieved, or accomplished successfully Her family is proud of all her academic accomplishments. one of the greatest scientific accomplishments of the century 2 [noncount] the successful completion of something the act of accomplishing something We celebrated the accomplishment of all our goals. When the work was done, he had a sense of accomplishment. [=he felt that he had done something good] a public official with a solid record of accomplishment [=of doing good things successfully] 3 a special skill or ability gained by practice or training [count] Her knowledge of foreign languages is among her many accomplishments. [noncount] a young woman of accomplishment [=an accomplished young woman] 1 ac cord ə ko d noun, pl -cords 1 [count] a formal or official agreement The two sides were able to reach an accord. a peace accord 2 [noncount] a situation or state in which people or things agree His ideas and mine were completely/fully in accord. = His ideas were completely/fully in accord with mine. [=his ideas and mine agreed completely] They dressed up for the festival in accord with [=in accordance with] the custom. of its own accord a of one s own accord The tree fell of its own accord. of your own accord a of one s own accord They left of their own accord. with one accord chiefly Brit, formal all together They rose with one accord from their seats. 2 accord verb -cords; -cord ed; -cord ing [+ obj] formal to give (something, such as special treatment or status) to someone or something He was accorded certain favors because of his age. Her students accorded her respect. = Her students accorded respect to her. = She was accorded respect by her students. We accord great importance to education. [=we treat education as very important] accord with [phrasal verb] accord with (something) to be in agreement with (something) His interpretation of the data did not accord with the facts. His plans for the company did not accord with my own. ac cor dance ə ko d s noun in accordance with in a way that agrees with or follows (something, such as a rule or request) In accordance with your request, I am sending a copy of my book. His funeral will be private, in accordance with his wishes. The soldier said that he acted in accordance with his orders. ac cord ing ly ə ko d ŋli adv 1 in a proper or appropriate way in a way that suits the facts, needs, or requirements of a situation He knew his limitations and acted accordingly. She is considered a manager and is paid accordingly. The car is made with the best materials and is priced accordingly. 2 as a result THEREFORE His campaign manager wanted to find out how people felt. ccordingly [=consequently], he took an opinion poll of the local voters. according to prep 1 as stated, reported, or recorded by (someone or something) ccording to a recent survey, most mericans drive to work. [=a recent survey says that most mericans drive to work] ccording to rumors I ve heard, he was fired for stealing from the company. 2 as directed or required by (rules, directions, etc.) She always did everything according to the rules. I cooked the rice according to the directions on the box. Everything went according to plan. [=everything went as it had been planned] 3 in a way that is based on (something) He arranged the books on the shelf according to [=by] their size. He was paid according to how quickly he worked. ac cor di on ə ko dijən noun, pl -ons [count] a musical instrument that is shaped like a box and that is held in your hands and played by pulling its sides apart and then pushing them together while pressing buttons and keys ac cor di on ist ə ko dijən st noun, pl -ists [count] ac cost ə kb st verb -costs; accordion -cost ed; -cost ing [+ obj] to approach and speak to (someone) often in an angry, aggressive, or unwanted way He was accosted by three gang members on the subway. She was so famous that people would accost her on the street and ask for an autograph. 1 ac count ə ka nt noun, pl -counts