Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary PUBLISHED BY THE PRESS SYNDICATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS The Edinburgh Building, Cambridge CB2 2RU, UK 40 West 20th Street, New York, NY 10011–4211, USA 477 Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne, VIC 3207, Australia Ruiz de Alarcón 13, 28014 Madrid, Spain Dock House, The Waterfront, Cape Town 8001, South Africa http://www.cambridge.org © Cambridge University Press 2003 This book is in copyright. Subject to statutory exception and to the provisions of relevant collective licensing agreements, no reproduction of any part may take place without the written permission of Cambridge University Press. Defined words which we have reason to believe constitute trademarks have been labelled as such. However, neither the presence nor absence of such labels should be regarded as affecting the legal status of any trademarks. First published 1995 as Cambridge International Dictionary of English This edition first published 2003 as Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary Reprinted 2003 Typeface Nimrod, Frutiger® A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library Library of Congress Cataloguing in Publication data applied for ISBN 0 521 82422 2 hardback ISBN 0 521 53105 5 paperback ISBN 0 521 82423 0 hardback + CD-ROM ISBN 0 521 53106 3 paperback + CD-ROM ISBN 3 12 5179947 Klett paperback edition ISBN 3 12 5179939 Klett hardback + CD-ROM edition Printed and bound in Great Britain by Clays Ltd, St Ives plc Contents Grammar codes and abbreviations inside front cover Introduction vii How to use the dictionary viii Numbers that are used like words xii The Dictionary 1–1490 Colour Pictures Centre 1–16 Idiom Finder 1491 Word Families 1522 Geographical Names 1534 Common First Names 1539 Prefixes and Suffixes 1540 Irregular verbs 1542 Regular verb tenses 1545 Symbols 1547 Units of measurement 1548 Pronunciation 1549 Pronunciation symbols inside back cover Study Sections Work and jobs Centre 18 Money Centre 19 Periods of time Centre 20 Relationships Centre 21 Telephoning Centre 22 Sounds and smells Centre 23 Computers, text Centre 24–25 messages, email Relative clauses Centre 26 Phrasal verbs Centre 27 Determiners Centre 28 Modal verbs Centre 29 Homographs Centre 30 Homophones Centre 31 Letter Writing Centre 32–33 Regular inflections Centre 34–35 Punctuation Centre 36–37 Varieties of English Centre 38 It seems a very long time since I first heard about the death of printed dictionaries. I was assured, very confidently, in the early 1980s, that everything would be electronic by the new century. Nobody would bother to flick through 1600 pages when they could just hit the ‘enter’ key. Well we are now well into the new century and people seem just as keen to buy the printed book. You may well have bought a version of this Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary with a CD-ROM attached, but the medium which you are currently using to read these words is the same medium that was used in the first Cambridge University Press book in 1584 – paper and ink. So why has the printed dictionary survived so well? Maybe people see their dictionary as a friend. Perhaps a bond is created in all the hours that a learner spends together with a dictionary. Perhaps some of the character of the book rubs off on the reader. And what kind of character would they find in the Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary? Friendly, that would be one part of the character. We have made the page as friendly and easy to read as possible, with coloured printing to make the words easier to find, and with a special clear way of showing idioms and phrasal verbs. We have also included an ‘Idiom Finder’ at the back of the dictionary so that you can find idioms even if you don’t know which part of the dictionary to look in. ‘Helpful’ would also be part of the character. You will find ‘Common Learner Error’ notes spread throughout the dictionary, to make sure that you don’t make the mistakes that many learners make. The notes are based on the Cambridge Learner Corpus, which is a 15-million word collection of learners’ English based on what students have written in the Cambridge exams from Cambridge ESOL. This corpus means that we can really see what learners’ English is like – and find ways to make it even better. ‘Well-informed’ is certainly part of the character. You will find thousands of up-to- date words as you look through the dictionary, including many that have only just come into the language. We can make sure that these important new words are included because we have the huge Cambridge International Corpus to help us. This has over 500 million words from British English and American English, from spoken English and written English, and from many specialized types of English, such as Law and Computers and Science. If you find that the character of the Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary is one that appeals to you, then I should point out that you are actually making friends with a large group of talented people who created this book and its predecessor, the Cambridge International Dictionary of English. All of them have an excellent ‘feel for language’ and a clear understanding of what learners need to know. The corpus resources can give us information, but only good lexicographers can put it into a book that you can make friends with. I hope you enjoy getting to know them. Patrick Gillard January 2003 vii Introduction A A LETTER (plural A’s), a (plural a’s) /e/ noun [C] the 1st letter of the English alphabet � from A to B from one place to another: Using this soft- ware a driver can now work out the quickest route from A to B. � from A to Z including everything: This book tells the story of her life from A to Z. A MUSIC /e/ noun [C or U] plural A’s or As a note in Western music: This concerto is in the key of A major. A MARK /e/ noun [C or U] plural A’s or As a mark in an exam or for a piece of work that shows that your work is considered excellent: Sophie got (an) A for English. � She got straight As (= All her marks were As) in her end-of-year exams. � US Jim is a straight A student (= All his marks are A). A ELECTRICITY ABBREVIATION FOR amp ELECTRICITY a NOT PARTICULAR WEAK /ə/, STRONG /e/ determiner (ALSO an) 1 used before a noun to refer to a single thing or person that has not been mentioned before, especially when you are not referring to a particular thing or person, or you do not expect listeners or readers to know which particular thing or person you are referring to: I’ve bought a car. � She’s got a boyfriend. � There was a sudden loud noise. � What a shame that you couldn’t go to the party. � I heard a child crying. � Is he a friend of yours (= one of your friends)? 2 used to state what type of thing or person something or someone is: She wants to be a doctor when she grows up. � This is a very mild cheese. � Experts think the painting may be a Picasso (= by Picasso). 3 used to mean any or every thing or person of the type you are referring to: Can you ride a bike? � A cheetah can run faster than a lion. � A teacher needs to have a lot of patience. 4 used before some un- countable nouns when you want to limit their meaning in some way, such as when describing them more completely or referring to one example of them: I only have a limited knowledge of Spanish. � He has a great love of music. � There was a fierceness in her voice. 5 used before some nouns of action when referring to one example of the action: Take a look at this, Jez. � I’m just going to have a wash. � There was a knocking at the door. 6 used when referring to a unit or container of something, especially something you eat or drink: I’d love a coffee. � All I had for lunch was a yogurt. 7 used before the first but not the second of two nouns that are referred to as one unit: a cup and saucer � a knife and fork 8 used in front of a person’s name when referring to someone who you do not know: There’s a Ms Evans to see you. 9 used in front of a person’s family name when they are a member of that family: Is that a Wilson over there? 10 used before the name of a day or month to refer to one example of it: My birthday is on a Friday this year. � It’s been a very wet June. 11 used before some words that express a number or amount: a few days � a bit of wool � a lot of money COMMON LEARNER ERROR a or an? a is used before consonants or before vowels which are pronounced as consonants. a dog a university an is used before vowels. an old building a old building a ONE WEAK /ə/, STRONG /e/ determiner (ALSO an) 1 one: a hundred � a thousand � a dozen � There were three men and a woman. 2 used between a fraction and a unit of measurement: half a mile � a quarter of a kilo � three- quarters of an hour � six-tenths of a second 3 used when saying how often something happens in a certain period: Take one tablet three times a day. � I swim once a week. 4 used when saying how much someone earns or how much something costs in a certain period: She earns $100 000 a year. � My plumber charges £20 an hour. � I pay £5 a week for my parking permit. A4 /�e�fɔ�/ � US /��fɔ�r/ noun [U], adj paper that is a standard European size of 21 centimetres by 29.7 centimetres: a sheet of A4 � A4 paper AA DEGREE /�e�e/ noun [C] ABBREVIATION FOR Associate in Arts: a degree given by an American college to someone after they have completed a two-year course, or a person who has this degree AA ALCOHOL /�e�e/ group noun [S] ABBREVIATION FOR Alcoholics Anonymous: an organization for people who drink too much alcohol and want to cure themselves of this habit: an AA meeting the �A�A CARS group noun [S] ABBREVIATION FOR the Auto- mobile Association: a British organization which gives help and information to drivers who are members of it AAA /�e.e�e/ group noun [S] ABBREVIATION FOR American Automobile Association: an American organization which gives help and information to drivers who are members of it aah /�ɑ�/ exclamation ANOTHER SPELLING OF ah aardvark /�ɑ�d.vɑ�k/ � US /�a�rd.vɑ�rk/ noun [C] an African mammal with a long nose and large ears which lives underground and eats insects AB /�e�bi�/ noun [C] US FOR BA aback /ə�b�k/ adv be taken aback to be very shocked or surprised: I was rather taken aback by her honesty. abacus /��b.ə.kəs/ noun [C] a square or rectangular frame holding an arrangement of small balls on metal rods or wires, which is used for counting, adding and subtracting abandon LEAVE /ə�b�n.dən/ verb [T] to leave a place, thing or person forever: We had to abandon the car. � By the time the rebel troops arrived, the village had already been abandoned. � As a baby he’d been abandoned by his mother. � We were sinking fast, and the captain gave the order to abandon ship. abandoned /ə�b�n.dənd/ adj: An abandoned baby was found in a box on the hospital steps. abandonment /ə�b�n.dən.mənt/ noun [U] The abandon- ment of the island followed nuclear tests in the area. abandon STOP /ə�b�n.dən/ verb [T] to stop doing an activity before you have finished it: The match was abandoned at half-time because of the poor weather con- ditions. � They had to abandon their attempt to climb the mountain. � The party has now abandoned its policy of unilateral disarmament. abandonment /ə�b�n.dən.� mənt/ noun [U] � abandon yourself to sth phrasal verb [R] to allow yourself to be controlled completely by a feeling or way of living: He abandoned himself to his emotions. abandon /ə�b�n.dən/ noun LITERARY with (gay/wild) abandon in a completely uncontrolled way: We danced with wild abandon. abase yourself /ə�bes/ verb [R] FORMAL to make yourself seem to be less important or not to deserve respect abasement /ə�be.smənt/ noun [U] The pilgrims knelt in self-abasement. abashed /ə�b�ʃt/ adj [after v] embarrassed: He said noth- ing but looked abashed. abate /ə�bet/ verb [I] FORMAL to become less strong: The storm/wind/rain has started to abate. � The fighting in the area shows no sign of abating. 7See also unabated. abatement /ə�bet.mənt/ noun [U] abattoir MAINLY UK /��b.ə.twɑ�r/ � US /�twɑ�r/ noun [C] (MAIN- LY US slaughterhouse) a place where animals are killed for their meat abbess /��b.es/ noun [C] a woman who is in charge of a CONVENT abbey /��b.i/ noun [C] a building where monks or nuns live or used to live. Some abbeys are now used as churches: Westminster Abbey abbot /��b.ət/ noun [C] a man who is in charge of a MONASTERY abbreviate /ə�bri�.vi.et/ verb [T usually passive] to make a word or phrase shorter by using only the first letters of A abbreviate 1 � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � each word: ‘Daniel’ is often abbreviated to ‘Dan’. � ‘Chief Executive Officer’ is abbreviated as ‘CEO’. abbreviated /ə�bri�.vi.e.td/ � US /�t�d/ adj: ‘Di’ is the abbreviated form of ‘Diane’. abbreviation /ə�bri�.vi�e.ʃən/ noun [C] ‘ITV’ is the abbreviation for ‘Independent Television’. ABC ALPHABET /�e.bi��si�/ noun [S] (US USUALLY ABCs) INFOR- MAL 1 the alphabet: He’s learning his ABC at school. 2 basic information about a subject: What I need is a book that contains the ABC of carpentry. ABC US TV /�e.bi��si�/ group noun [S] ABBREVIATION FOR American Broadcasting Company: an organization that broadcasts on television in the US the �AB�C AUSTRALIAN TV group noun [S] ABBREVIATION FOR the Australian Broadcasting Corporation: an organiza- tion that broadcasts on radio and television in Australia and is paid for by the government abdicate GIVE UP /��b.d.ket/ verb [I or T] If a king or queen abdicates, they make a formal statement that they no longer want to be king or queen: King Edward VIII abdicated (the British throne) in 1936 so that he could marry Mrs Simpson, a divorced woman. abdica- tion /��b.d�ke.ʃən/ noun [C or U] abdicate NOT DO /��b.d.ket/ verb FORMAL DISAPPROVING abdicate responsibility to stop controlling or managing something that you are in charge of: She was accused of abdicating all responsibility for the project. abdication /��b.d�ke.ʃən/ noun [U] FORMAL The council denied that their decision represented any abdication of responsibility. abdomen /��b.də.mən/ noun [C] SPECIALIZED the lower part of a person’s or animal’s body, which contains the stomach, bowels and other organs, or the end of an in- sect’s body abdominal /�b�dɒm..nəl/ � US /��dɑ�.mə�/ adj: abdominal pains abdominals /�b�dɒm..nəlz/ � US /��dɑ�.mə�/ plural noun (INFORMAL abs) muscles in the abdomen abduct /�b�d�kt/ verb [T] to force someone to go some- where with you, often using threats or violence: The company director was abducted from his car by terror- ists. abduction /�b�d�k.ʃən/ noun [C or U] There has been a series of abductions of young children from schools in the area. � He was charged with abduction. abductor /�b�d�k.tər/ � US /�t�/ noun [C] She was tortured by her abductors. aberrant /ə�ber.ənt/ adj FORMAL different from what is typical or usual, especially in an unacceptable way: aberrant behaviour/sexuality aberration /��b.ə�re.ʃən/ noun [C or U] FORMAL a temporary change from the typical or usual way of behaving: In a moment of aberration, she agreed to go with him. � I’m sorry I’m late – I had a mental aberra- tion and forgot we had a meeting today. abet /ə�bet/ verb [T] -tt- to help or encourage someone to do something wrong or illegal: His accountant had aided and abetted him in the fraud. abettor /ə�bet.ər/ � US /��bet�.�/ noun [C] abeyance /ə�be.ənts/ noun [U] FORMAL a state of not happening or being used at present: Hostilities between the two groups have been in abeyance since last June. � The project is being held in abeyance until agreement is reached on funding it. abhor /ə�bɔ�r/ � US /�b�hɔ�r/ verb [T not continuous] -rr- FORMAL to hate a way of behaving or thinking, often because you think it is immoral: I abhor all forms of racism. abhorrent /ə�bɒr.ənt/ � US /�b�hɔ�r�/ adj FORMAL morally very bad: an abhorrent crime � Racism of any kind is abhorrent to me. abhorrence /ə�bɒr.ənts/ � US /�b�hɔ�r�/ noun [S or U] She looked at him in/with abhorrence. � She has an abhorrence of change. abide /ə�bad/ verb [I usually + adv or prep] OLD USE to live or stay somewhere: He abided in the wilderness for forty days. � can’t abide sb/sth If you can’t abide someone or some- thing, you dislike them very much: I can’t abide her. � He couldn’t abide laziness. � abide by sth phrasal verb to accept or obey an agree- ment, decision or rule: Competitors must abide by the judge’s decision. abiding /ə�ba.dŋ/ adj [before n] describes a feeling or memory that you have for a long time: My abiding memory is of him watering his plants in the garden on sunny afternoons. ability POWER /ə�bl..ti/ � US /�ə.t�i/ noun [C or U] the physical or mental power or skill needed to do some- thing: There’s no doubting her ability. � [+ to infinitive] She had the ability to explain things clearly and concisely. � She’s a woman of considerable abilities. � I have child- ren in my class of very mixed abilities (= different levels of skill or intelligence). � a mixed ability class 7See also able CAN DO; able SKILFUL. -ability QUALITY /�ə.bl..ti/ � US /�ə.t�i/ suffix (ALSO -ibility) used to form nouns from adjectives ending in ‘-able’ or ‘-ible’, to mean the quality of being the stated adjective: suitability � stability abject EXTREME /��b.d�ekt/ adj FORMAL abject misery/ poverty/terror, etc. when someone is extremely un- happy, poor, frightened, etc: They live in abject poverty. � This policy has turned out to be an abject failure. abject WITHOUT RESPECT /��b.d�ekt/ adj FORMAL showing no pride or respect for yourself: an abject apology � He is almost abject in his respect for his boss. abjectly /��b.d�ekt.li/ adv abjure /əb�d�υər/ � US /�d�υr/ verb [T] VERY FORMAL to state publicly that you no longer agree with a belief or way of behaving: He abjured his religion/his life of dissipation. ablaze BURNING /ə�blez/ adj [after v] 1 burning very strongly: The house was ablaze, and the flames and smoke could be seen for miles around. 2 brightly lit or brightly coloured: The ballroom was ablaze with lights. � The field was ablaze with poppies and wild flowers. ablaze EMOTION /ə�blez/ adj [after v] full of energy, inter- est or emotion: Her eyes were ablaze with excitement. able CAN DO /�e.bl�/ adj be able to do sth to have the necessary physical strength, mental power, skill, time, money or opportunity to do something: Will she be able to cope with the work? � He’s never been able to admit to his mistakes. � I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to phone you yesterday. � It’s so wonderful being able to see the sea from my window. 7See also ability. USAGE be able to be able to is used instead of can when future tenses, perfect tenses, etc. are used. I can’t find your book. I haven’t been able to find your book. able SKILFUL /�e.bl�/ adj clever or good at what you do: an able child/student/secretary � This problem is now being looked at by some of the ablest minds/scientists in the country. 7See also ability. ably /�e.bli/ adv: He performs his duties very ably (= skil- fully). -able CAN BE /�ə.bl�/ suffix (ALSO -ible) added to verbs to form adjectives which mean able to receive the action of the stated verb: breakable � washable � moveable -able WORTH BEING /�ə.bl�/ suffix (ALSO -ible) added to verbs to form adjectives which mean worth receiving the action of the stated verb: an admirable person � an acceptable answer able-bodied /�e.bl��bɒd.id/ � US /��bɑ�.did/ adj describes someone who is healthy and has no illness, injury or condition that makes it difficult to do the things that other people do: All able-bodied young men were forced to join the army. the �able-�bodied plural noun: It is hard for the able-bodied to understand the difficulties that disabled people encounter in their daily lives. ablution /ə�blu�.ʃən/ noun [U] FORMAL the act of washing yourself: Ablution is part of some religious ceremonies. ablutions /ə�blu�.ʃənz/ plural noun HUMOROUS I must just perform my ablutions (= wash myself)! abnormal /�b�nɔ�.məl/ � US /��nɔ�r�/ adj different from what is usual or average, especially in a way that is bad: abnormal behaviour/weather/conditions � Tests revealed some abnormal skin cells. A ABC 2 � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � abnormality /��b.nɔ��m�l.ə.ti/ � US /�nɔ�r�m�l.ə.t�i/ noun [C or U] something abnormal, usually in the body: genetic/ congenital abnormalities � An increasing number of tests are available for detecting foetal abnormalities. � The X-rays showed some slight abnormality. abnormally /�b�nɔ�.məl.i/ � US /��nɔ�r�/ adv: The success rate was abnormally high. Abo /��b.əυ/ � US /�oυ/ noun [C] plural Abos AUS an Aborigine. This word is generally considered offensive. aboard /ə�bɔ�d/ � US /��bɔ�rd/ adv, prep used when talking about getting onto a ship, aircraft, bus or train: The flight attendant welcomed us aboard. � Welcome aboard flight BA345 to Tokyo. � The train’s about to leave. All aboard! � We spent two months aboard ship (= on the ship). abode /ə�bəυd/ � US /��boυd/ noun [C usually sing] the place where someone lives: FORMAL The defendant is of no fixed abode (= has no permanent home). � HUMOROUS Welcome to my humble abode! abolish /ə�bɒl.ʃ/ � US /��bɑ�.lʃ/ verb [T] to end an activity or custom officially: I think bullfighting should be abolished. � National Service was abolished in Britain in 1962. abolition /��b.ə�lʃ.ən/ noun [U] William Wilberforce campaigned for the abolition of slavery. abolitionist /��b.ə�lʃ.ən.st/ noun [C] a person who sup- ports the abolition of something abominable /ə�bɒm..nə.bl�/ � US /��bɑ�.m�/ adj very bad or unpleasant: The prisoners are forced to live in abomin- able conditions. � The weather’s been abominable all week. abominably /ə�bɒm..nə.bli/ � US /��bɑ�.m�/ adv: He behaved abominably towards her. a�bominable �snowman noun [C] a yeti abomination /ə�bɒm.�ne.ʃən/ � US /��bɑ�.m�/ noun [C] FORMAL something that disgusts you: Foxhunting is an abomination. abominate /ə�bɒm..net/ � US /��bɑ�.m�/ verb [T not contin- uous] FORMAL to hate something very much: He abominates cruelty of all kinds. aboriginal /��b.ə�rd�..nəl/ adj describes a person or living thing that has existed in a country or continent since the earliest time known to people: aboriginal forests � aboriginal inhabitants Aborigine /��b.ə�rd�.ən.i/ noun [C] a member of the race of dark-skinned people who were the first people to live in Australia Aboriginal /��b.ə�rd�..nəl/ adj: Aboriginal art/traditions Aboriginal /�b.ə�rd�..nəl/ noun [C] an Aborigine abort STOP /ə�bɔ�t/ � US /��bɔrt/ verb [T] to cause something to stop or fail before it begins or before it is complete: The plan/flight had to be aborted at the last minute. abortion /ə�bɔ�.ʃən/ � US /��bɔ�r�/ noun [C] SLANG a failure: This project is a complete abortion. abortive /ə�bɔ�.tv/ � US /��bɔ�r.t�v/ adj FORMAL describes an attempt or plan that you have to give up because it has failed: He made two abortive attempts on the French throne. abort END PREGNANCY /ə�bɔ�t/ � US /��bɔ�rt/ verb 1 [T] to stop the development of a baby that has not been born, usu- ally by having a medical operation: Do you think it’s wrong to use aborted foetuses for medical research? 2 [I] another word for miscarry, see at miscarriage abortion /ə�bɔ�.ʃən/ � US /��bɔ�r�/ noun [C or U] the inten- tional ending of a pregnancy, usually by a medical operation: She decided to have/get an abortion. � Abortion is restricted in some American states. 7Compare miscarriage; stillbirth. abortionist /ə�bɔ�.ʃən.st/ � US /��bɔ�r�/ noun [C] a person who performs abortions to end unwanted pregnancies, often illegally and for money abound /ə�baυnd/ verb [I] to exist in large numbers: Theories abound about how the earth began. � abound in/with sth phrasal verb If something abounds in/with other things, it has a lot of them: The coast here abounds with rare plants. about CONNECTED WITH /ə�baυt/ prep on the subject of; connected with: What’s that book about? � a film about the Spanish Civil War � We were talking/laughing about Sophie. � He’s always (going) on about what a great job he’s got. � I’m worried about David. � I really don’t know what all the fuss is about. � I wish you’d do something about (= take action to solve the problem of) your bed- room – it’s a real mess. � UK INFORMAL Could you make me a coffee too while you’re about it (= while you are mak- ing one for yourself)? � What didn’t you like about the play? � There’s something about (= in the character of) her attitude that worries me. � There’s something special about him (= in his character). � "Is that your car?" "Yes, what about it (= why are you asking me)?" ✻ This is sometimes said in an angry or threatening way. � How/What about? used when suggesting or offering something to someone: How about a trip to the zoo this afternoon? � "Coffee, Sarah?" "No, thanks." "What about you, Kate?" about APPROXIMATELY /ə�baυt/ adv a little more or less than the stated number or amount; approximately: about six feet tall � about two months ago � "What time are you leaving work today?" "About five." � We’re about (= almost) ready to leave. � Well, I think that’s about it for now (= we have almost finished what we are doing for the present). about IN THIS PLACE UK /ə�baυt/ adv, prep, adj [after v] (US around) positioned or moving in or near a place, often without a clear direction, purpose or order: She always leaves her clothes lying about on the floor. � They heard someone moving about outside. � I’ve been running about all morning trying to find you. � UK FORMAL Do you have such a thing as a pen about you/your person (= Have you got a pen)? � Is John about (= somewhere near)? � There’s a lot of flu about (= many people have it) at the moment. about INTENDING /ə�baυt/ adj be about to do sth to be going to do something very soon: I was about to leave when Mark arrived. � She looked as if she was about to cry. about-turn UK /ə�baυt�t��n/ � US /��t��n/ noun [C] (US about-face) 1 a change of direction: I’d only gone a little way down the street when I remembered I hadn’t locked the door, so I made/did a quick about-turn and ran back to the house. 2 a complete change of opinion or behaviour: This is the Government’s second about-turn on the issue. above HIGHER POSITION /ə�b�v/ adv, prep in or to a higher position than something else: There’s a mirror above the washbasin. � He waved the letter excitedly above his head. � She’s rented a room above a shop. � Her name comes above mine on the list. � The helicopter was hover- ing above the building. above MORE /ə�b�v/ adv, prep 1 more than an amount or level: It says on the box it’s for children aged three and above. � Rates of pay are above average. � Temperatures rarely rise above zero in winter. � She values her job above her family. � They value their freedom above (and beyond) all else. 2 above all most importantly: Above all, I’d like to thank my family. above RANK /ə�b�v/ adv, prep in a more important or advanced position than someone else: Sally’s a grade above me. above TOO IMPORTANT /ə�b�v/ adv, prep too good or important for something: No one is above suspicion in this matter. � He’s not above lying (= he sometimes lies) to protect himself. above ON PAGE /ə�b�v/ adv, adj When used in a piece of writing, above means higher on the page, or on a pre- vious page: Please send the articles to the address given above. the a�bove plural noun all the people or things listed earlier: All of the above should be invited to the con- ference. a�bove �board adj [after v] describes a plan or business agreement that is honest and not trying to deceive any- one: The deal was completely open and above board. above-mentioned /ə�b�v�men.tʃənd/ adj FORMAL refers to things or people in a document or book that have been mentioned earlier: All of the above-mentioned films won Oscars for best director. 7Compare undermen- tioned. abracadabra /��b.rə.kə�d�b.rə/ exclamation said by someone who is performing a magic trick, in order to A abracadabra 3 � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � help them perform it successfully abrade /ə�bred/ verb [T] SPECIALIZED to remove part of the surface of something by rubbing abrasion /ə�bre.�ən/ noun SPECIALIZED 1 [U] the process of rubbing away the surface of something: There seems to have been some abrasion of the surface. 2 [C] a place where the surface of something, such as skin, has been rubbed away: She had a small abrasion on her knee. abrasive CLEANING SUBSTANCE /ə�bre.sv/ noun [C] a sub- stance used for rubbing away the surface of something, usually to clean it or make it shiny: You’ll need a strong abrasive for cleaning this sink. abrasive /ə�bre.sv/ adj: an abrasive cleaner/powder/liquid abrasive UNPLEASANT /ə�bre.sv/ adj rude and un- friendly: She has a rather abrasive manner. abras- ively /ə�bre.sv.li/ adv abrasiveness /ə�bre.sv.nəs/ noun [U] abreast /ə�brest/ adv 1 describes two or more people who are next to each other and moving in the same direction: We were running/cycling two abreast. � The motorcyclist came abreast of her car and shouted abuse at her. 2 keep abreast of sth to stay informed about the most recent facts about a subject or situation: I try to keep abreast of any developments. abridge /ə�brd�d/ verb [T] to make a book, play or piece of writing shorter by removing details and unimportant information: The book was abridged for children. abridged /ə�brd�d/ adj: I’ve only read the abridged edition/version of her novel. abridgment, abridge- ment /ə�brd�.mənt/ noun [C or U] abroad FOREIGN PLACE /ə�brɔ�d/ adj [after v], adv in or to a foreign country or countries: He’s currently abroad on business. � We always go abroad in the summer. abroad OUT /ə�brɔ�d/ adj [after v] 1 LITERARY OR OLD USE outside; not at home: Not a soul was abroad that morn- ing. 2 FORMAL describes ideas, feelings and opinions that are shared by many people: There’s a rumour abroad that she intends to leave the company. abrogate /��b.rəυ.�et/ � US /�rə�/ verb [T] FORMAL to end a law, agreement or custom formally: The treaty was abrogated in 1929. abrogation /��b.rəυ��e.ʃən/ � US /�rə�/ noun [S or U] abrupt SUDDEN /ə�br�pt/ adj describes something that is sudden and unexpected, and often unpleasant: an abrupt change/movement � Our conversation came to an abrupt end when George burst into the room. � The road ended in an abrupt (= sudden and very steep) slope down to the sea. abruptly /ə�br�pt.li/ adv: The talks ended abruptly when one of the delegations walked out in protest. abruptness /ə�br�pt.nəs/ noun [U] abrupt UNFRIENDLY /ə�br�pt/ adj using too few words when talking, in a way that seems rude and unfriendly: an abrupt manner/reply � He is sometimes very abrupt with clients. abruptly /ə�br�pt.li/ adv abruptness /ə�br�pt.nəs/ noun [U] ABS /�e.bi��es/ noun [U] ABBREVIATION FOR anti-lock brak- ing system: a brake fitted to some road vehicles that pre- vents SKIDDING (= uncontrolled sliding) by reducing the effects of sudden braking abs /�bz/ plural noun INFORMAL ABDOMINAL muscles: exercises to tone/build up your abs abscess /��b.ses/ noun [C] a painful swollen area on or in the body, which contains pus (= thick, yellow liquid): She had an abscess on her gum. abscond ESCAPE /�b�skɒnd/ � US /��skɑ�nd/ verb [I] to go away suddenly and secretly in order to escape from somewhere: Two prisoners absconded last night. � She absconded from boarding school with her boyfriend. absconder /�b�skɒn.dər/ � US /��skɑ�n.d�/ noun [C] A 14 year-old absconder from a children’s home in Bristol was found alive and well in London this morning. abscond STEAL /�b�skɒnd/ � US /��skɑ�nd/ verb [I] to go away suddenly and secretly because you have stolen some- thing, usually money: They absconded with £10 000 of the company’s money. abseil UK /��b.sel/ verb [I] (US rappel) to go down a very steep slope by holding on to a rope which is fastened to the top of the slope: She abseiled down the rock face. abseil UK /��b.sel/ noun [C] (US rappel) absence NOT PRESENT /��b.sənts/ noun [C or U] when some- one is not where they are usually expected to be: A new manager was appointed during/in her absence. � She has had repeated absences from work this year. � Absence makes the heart grow fonder. SAYING This means that we feel more affection for people we love when they are not with us. absent /��b.sənt/ adj not in the place where you are expected to be, especially at school or work: John has been absent from school/work for three days now. � We drank a toast to absent friends. absent yourself /�b�sent/ verb [R] FORMAL to not go to a place where you are expected to be, especially a school or place of work: You cannot choose to absent yourself (from work/school) on a whim. absentee /��b.sən�ti�/ noun [C] someone who is not at school or work when they should be: There are several absentees in the school this week, because a lot of people have got flu. absenteeism /��b.sən�ti�..zəm/ noun [U] The high rate of absenteeism is costing the company a lot of money. absence NOT EXISTING /��b.sənts/ noun [U] when some- thing does not exist: He drew attention to the absence of concrete evidence against the defendant. � In the absence of (= because there were not) more suitable candidates, we decided to offer the job to Mr Conway. absent /��b.sənt/ adj not present: Any sign of remorse was completely absent from her face. absent /��b.sənt/ adj describes a person or the expres- sion on their face when they are not paying attention to what is happening near them, and are thinking about other things absently /��b.sənt.li/ adv �absentee �ballot US noun [C] (AUS absentee vote) a piece of paper which voters who are unable to be pre- sent at an election can vote on and send in by post �absentee �landlord noun [C] a person who rents out a house, apartment or farm to someone, but rarely or never visits it absent-minded /��b.sənt�man.dd/ adj describes someone who tends to forget things or does not pay attention to what is happening near them because they are thinking about other things absent-mindedly /��b.sənt�man.dd.li/ adv: She absent-mindedly left her umbrella on the bus. absent-mindedness /��b.sənt� �man.dd.nəs/ noun [U] absinthe, absinth /��b.s�� θ/ /�sntθ/ � US /���/ noun [U] a strong alcoholic drink which is green and has a bitter taste absolute VERY GREAT /��b.sə�lu�t/ /����/ adj 1 very great or to the largest degree possible: a man of absolute integrity/discretion � I have absolute faith in her judg- ment. � There was no absolute proof of fraud. 2 [before n] used when expressing a strong opinion: He’s an absolute idiot! � That’s absolute rubbish! absolutely /��b.sə�lu�t.li/ /������/ adv 1 completely: I believed/trusted him absolutely. � You must be absolutely silent or the birds won’t appear. � We’ve achieved absolutely nothing today. 2 used for adding force to a strong adjective which is not usually used with ‘very’, or to a verb expressing strong emotion: It’s absolutely impossible to work with all this noise. � The food was absolutely disgusting/delicious. � I absolutely loathe/ adore jazz. 3 used as a way of strongly saying ‘yes’: "It was an excellent film, though." "Absolutely!" 4 absolutely not used as a way of strongly saying ‘no’: "Are you too tired to continue?" "Absolutely not!" absolute NOT CHANGING /��b.sə�lu�t/ /����/ adj [before n] not dependent on anything else; true, right, or the same in all situations: an absolute law/principle/doctrine � Do you think there’s such a thing as absolute truth/beauty? � Her contribution was better than most, but in absolute terms (= without comparing it with anything else) it was still rather poor. absolute POWERFUL /��b.sə�lu�t/ /����/ adj describes a ruler who has unlimited power: an absolute monarch absolutism /��b.sə.lu�.t.zəm/ � US /�t��/ noun [U] a political system in which a single ruler, group or political party has complete power over a country A abrade 4 � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �absolute ma�jority noun [C] in an election, when someone has the support of more than half of the voters �absolute �zero noun [U] the lowest temperature possible, which is -273.15�C absolve /əb�zɒlv/ � US /��zɑ�lv/ verb [T] FORMAL (especially in religion or law) to free someone from guilt, blame or responsibility for something: The report absolved her from/of all blame for the accident. � The priest absolved him (of all his sins). absolution /��b.sə�lu�.ʃən/ noun [U] FORMAL official for- giveness, especially in the Christian religion, for some- thing bad that someone has done or thought: She was granted/given absolution. absorb /əb�zɔ�b/ � US /��zɔ�rb/ verb [T] 1 to take something in, especially gradually: Plants absorb carbon dioxide. � In cold climates, houses need to have walls that will absorb heat. � Towels absorb moisture. � The drug is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. � Our country- side is increasingly being absorbed by/into the large cities. 7See also self-absorbed. 2 to understand facts or ideas completely and remember them: It’s hard to absorb so much information. 3 to reduce the effect of a physical force, shock or change: The barrier absorbed the main impact of the crash. 4 If someone’s work, or a book, film, etc. absorbs them, or they are absorbed in it, their attention is given completely to it: Simon was so absorbed in his book, he didn’t even notice me come in. absorbent /əb�zɔ�.bənt/ � US /��zɔ�r�/ adj able to take liquid in through the surface and to hold it: absorbent paper absorbency /əb�zɔ�.bənt.si/ � US /��zɔ�r�/ noun [U] the ability to absorb liquid absorption /əb�zɔ�p.ʃən/ � US /��zɔ�rp�/ noun [U] Some poisonous gases can enter the body by absorption through the skin. � Her absorption in her work (= giving all of her attention to it) is so great that she thinks about noth- ing else. 7See also self-absorption at self-absorbed. absorbing /əb�zɔ�.bŋ/ � US /��zɔ�r�/ adj describes some- thing that is very interesting and keeps your attention: I read her last novel and found it very absorbing. abstain NOT DO /�b�sten/ verb [I] to not do something, especially something enjoyable that you think might be bad: He took a vow to abstain from alcohol/smoking/sex. abstainer /�b�ste.nər/ � US /�n�/ noun [C] abstention /�b�stent.ʃən/ noun [U] FORMAL Abstention from alcohol is essential while you are taking this medication. ab- stinence /��b.st.nənts/ noun [U] The best way to avoid pregnancy is total abstinence from sex. abstain NOT VOTE /�b�sten/ verb [I] to decide not to use your vote: 63 members voted in favour, 39 opposed and 5 abstained. abstainer /�b�ste.nər/ � US /�n�/ noun [C] ab- stention /�b�stent.ʃən/ noun [C or U] There were high levels of abstention (from voting) in the last elections. � There were ten votes in favour, six against, and three abstentions. abstemious /�b�sti�.mi.əs/ adj FORMAL not doing things which give you pleasure, especially not eating good food or drinking alcohol abstract GENERAL /��b.str�kt/ adj 1 existing as an idea, feeling or quality, not as a material object: Truth and beauty are abstract concepts. 2 describes an argument or discussion that is general and not based on particular examples: This debate is becoming too abstract – let’s have some hard facts! the �abstract noun [S] general ideas: I have difficulty dealing with the abstract – let’s discuss particular cases. � So far we’ve only discussed the question in the abstract (= without referring to any real examples). abstraction /�b�str�k.ʃən/ noun [C] FORMAL She’s always talking in abstractions (= in a general way, without real examples). abstract ART /��b.str�kt/ adj describes a type of pain- ting, drawing or sculpture which tries to represent the real or imagined qualities of objects or people by using shapes, lines and colour, and does not try to show their outer appearance as it would be seen in a photograph: abstract art � an abstract painter abstract /��b.str�kt/ noun [C] a painting which represents the qualities of something, not its outer appearance abstract SHORT DOCUMENT /��b.str�kt/ noun [C] a short- ened form of a speech, article, book, etc., giving only the most important facts or arguments: There is a section at the end of the magazine which includes abstracts of recent articles/books. abstracted /�b�str�k.td/ adj FORMAL not giving atten- tion to what is happening around you because you are thinking about something else: He gave her an abstracted glance, then returned to his book. abstractedly /�b�str�k.td.li/ adv �abstract �noun noun [C] a noun which refers to a thing which does not exist as a material object: ‘Happi- ness’, ‘honesty’ and ‘liberty’ are abstract nouns. 7Compare concrete noun. abstruse /�b�stru�s/ adj FORMAL difficult to understand: an abstruse philosophical essay absurd /əb�s��d/ � US /��s��d/ adj ridiculous or unreason- able; foolish in an amusing way: What an absurd thing to say! � Don’t be so absurd! Of course I want you to come. � It’s an absurd situation – neither of them will talk to the other. � Do I look absurd in this hat? the absurd things that happen that are ridiculous or unreasonable: The whole situation borders on the absurd. � She has a keen sense of the absurd. absurdly /əb�s��d.li/ � US /��s��d�/ adv: You’re behaving absurdly. � It was absurdly (= unreasonably) expensive. absurdity /əb�z��.d.ti/ /��s���/ � US /��z��.də.t�i/ noun [C or U] Standing there naked, I was suddenly struck by the absurdity of the situation. � There are all sorts of absurdities (= things that are ridiculous) in the proposal. ABTA /��b.tə/ group noun [S] ABBREVIATION FOR Associa- tion of British Travel Agents: a British organization which protects travellers and people on holiday if a company that arranges travel fails to do something or stops trading abundant /ə�b�n.dənt/ adj FORMAL more than enough: an abundant supply of food � There is abundant evidence that cars have a harmful effect on the environ- ment. � Cheap consumer goods are abundant (= exist in large amounts) in this part of the world. abundance /ə�b�n.dənts/ noun [S or U] There was an abundance of wine at the wedding. � We had wine in abundance. abundantly /ə�b�n.dənt.li/ adv: FORMAL The plant grows abundantly in woodland. � You’ve made your feelings abundantly clear (= very clear). abuse BEHAVIOUR /ə�bju�z/ verb [T] to use or treat someone or something wrongly or badly, especially in a way that is to your own advantage: She is continually abusing her position/authority by getting other people to do things for her. � I never expected that he would abuse the trust I placed in him. � Several of the children had been sexually/physically/emotionally abused. abuse /ə�bju�s/ noun [C or U] when someone uses or treats someone or something wrongly or badly, especially in a way that is to their own advantage: an abuse (= wrong use) of privilege/power/someone’s kindness � sexual/ physical/mental abuse (= bad treatment) � She claimed to have been a victim of child abuse (= the treatment of children in a bad, esp. sexual, way). � Drug and alcohol abuse (= Using these substances in a bad way) contributed to his early death. abuser /ə�bju�.zər/ � US /�z�/ noun [C] someone who abuses someone or something: a child abuser � a drug/solvent abuser abuse SPEECH /ə�bju�z/ verb [T] to speak to someone rudely or cruelly: The crowd started abusing him after he failed to save a goal. abuse /ə�bju�s/ noun [U] rude and offensive words said to another person: He had apparently experienced a lot of verbal abuse from his co-workers. � He hurled (a stream/torrent of) abuse at her (= He said a lot of rude and offensive things to her). � ‘Idiot!’ is a mild term of abuse (= an insulting expression). abusive /ə�bju�.sv/ adj using rude and offensive words: an abusive letter/telephone call � He was apparently abusive to the flight attendants because they refused to serve him alcohol. abut /ə�b�t/ verb [T no passive; I + prep] -tt- FORMAL If a build- ing or area of land abuts on something, it is next to it or A abut 5 � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � touches it on one side: Mexico abuts (on) some of the richest parts of the United States. � Their house abutted (onto) the police station. abuzz /ə�b�z/ adj [after v] filled with noise and activity: When we arrived, the party was in full swing and the room was abuzz. � The air was abuzz with military helicopters, airlifting injured people and equipment. abysmal /ə�bz.məl/ adj very bad: abysmal working con- ditions � The food was abysmal. � The standard of the students’ work is abysmal. abysmally /ə�bz.məl.i/ adv: an abysmally poor book abyss /ə�bs/ noun [C usually sing] 1 LITERARY a very deep hole which seems to have no bottom 2 a difficult situa- tion that brings trouble or destruction: The country is sinking/plunging into an abyss of violence and lawless- ness. � She found herself on the edge of an abyss. AC ELECTRICITY /�e�si�/ noun [U] ABBREVIATION FOR alterna- ting current: electrical current which regularly changes the direction in which it flows 7Compare DC ELECTRICITY. AC AIR /�e�si�/ noun [C or U] US ABBREVIATION FOR air con- ditioner or air conditioning acacia /ə�ke.ʃə/ noun [C or U] a tree from warm parts of the world which has small leaves and yellow or white flowers academic STUDYING /��k.ə�dem.k/ adj 1 relating to schools, colleges and universities, or connected with studying and thinking, not with practical skills: academic subjects/qualifications/books � an academic in- stitution � the academic year (= the time, usually from September to June, during which students go to school or college) � academic standards 2 describes someone who is clever and enjoys studying: I was never a particularly academic child. academically /��k.ə� �dem..kli/ adv: She’s always done well academically. � It may be that a child is bright, but not academically in- clined. academe /��k.ə.di�m/ noun [U] FORMAL the part of society, especially universities, that is connected with study and thinking academia /��k.ə�di�.mi.ə/ noun [U] the part of society, especially universities, that is connected with studying and thinking, or the activity or job of studying: A graduate of law and economics from Moscow State Uni- versity, he had spent his life in academia. academic /��k.ə�dem.k/ noun [C] (US ALSO academician) someone who teaches at a college, or who studies as part of their job academic THEORETICAL /��k.ə�dem.k/ adj: theoretical and not related to practical effects in real life: a purely academic argument/question academy /ə�k�d.ə.mi/ noun [C] an organization intended to protect and develop an art, science, language, etc., or a school which teaches a particular subject or trains people for a particular job: a military/police academy � the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art academician /ə�k�d.ə�mʃ.ən/ noun [C] a member of an academy: In 1823 he became professor and academician at Munich. A�cademy A�ward noun [C] (ALSO Oscar) one of a set of American prizes given each year to the best film, the best actor or actress in any film and to other people in- volved in the production of films a cappella /��.kə�pel.ə/ � US /�ɑ��/ adj [before n], adv SPECIALIZED sung by a group of people without the help of any musical instruments accede /ək�si�d/ verb PHRASAL VERBS WITH accede � � accede to sth AGREE phrasal verb FORMAL to agree to do what people have asked you to do: He graciously acceded to our request. � It is doubtful whether the government will ever accede to the nationalists’ demands for in- dependence. � accede to sth BECOME phrasal verb FORMAL accede to the throne/accede to power to become king or queen, or to take a position of power: The diaries were written in 1837 when Queen Victoria acceded to the throne. accession /ək�seʃ.ən/ noun [U] 1926 was the year of Emperor Hirohito’s acce...