CEFR Level
the dry outer covering of some fruits or seeds
"The corn husk was peeled away before cooking."
deep, rough, and slightly hoarse voice; also refers to a strong and sturdy build
"He spoke in a husky voice after shouting all day."
a member of a light cavalry regiment in European armies, especially the Hungarian cavalry
"The hussar rode swiftly across the battlefield."
the political campaigning and speeches before an election
"The candidate gained popularity during the hustings."
a many-headed serpent in Greek mythology; a problem that seems to grow worse when attempts are made to solve it
"Corruption is like a hydra, hard to defeat completely."
The branch of science concerned with the motion of fluids, especially liquids, and the forces acting on solid bodies immersed in fluids.
"Hydrodynamics is essential in designing efficient ship hulls."
A chemical process that breaks down compounds by adding water, splitting complex molecules into simpler forms.
"Hydrolysis breaks down complex molecules into simpler forms."
The study of the mechanical properties and behavior of fluids in motion and at rest.
"Hydromechanics provides the foundation for naval architecture."
An instrument used to measure the density or specific gravity of liquids.
"The brewer used a hydrometer to test the sugar content of the solution."
Extreme or irrational fear of water; historically, another name for rabies.
"After being bitten by a stray dog, the man was treated for hydrophobia."
The branch of science concerned with the mechanical properties of fluids at rest.
"Hydrostatics is essential in understanding how dams and reservoirs function."
Containing water, especially water of crystallization.
"The mineral is hydrous because it contains water molecules in its structure."
Relating to the extreme north; very cold or frigid.
"The explorers prepared for the hyperborean climate of the Arctic."
The use of multiple systems and devices to remain constantly connected.
"The era of hyperconnectivity has led to a digital revolution."
Excessively or unreasonably critical.
"The teacher was often hypercritical of small mistakes."
a person who is excessively worried about having a serious illness
"She is a hypochondriac who visits the doctor every week."
relating to the region immediately beneath the skin; also refers to a type of needle or syringe used to inject drugs beneath the skin.
"The doctor used a hypodermic needle to administer the vaccine."
to pledge something, such as property, as security for a debt without giving up possession of it.
"The company hypothecated its assets to secure the loan."
Relating to or resembling fish.
"The artist's painting had an ichthyic quality."
A scientist who studies fish.
"The ichthyologist discovered a new species of fish in the river."
The branch of zoology that deals with fish.
"He pursued a degree in ichthyology at the university."
Extinct marine reptiles that resembled fish and dolphins, dominant during the Mesozoic era.
"Ichthyosaurs were swift predators of the ancient seas."
In a very cold, unfriendly, or hostile manner.
"She replied icily to his question."
The state of being cold in manner or temperature.
"There was a distinct iciness in his voice."
A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs, traditions, or institutions.
"He was known as an iconoclast who challenged old traditions."
Characterized by attacking or rejecting cherished beliefs, traditions, or established values.
"Her iconoclastic views challenged the conventional wisdom of the industry."
The process of forming ideas or concepts.
"The workshop focused on ideation and brainstorming."
extremely stupid behavior or actions; foolishness
"The decision to ignore safety protocols was pure idiocy that endangered everyone."
A distinctive or peculiar characteristic, habit, or mannerism unique to an individual.
"One of her idiosyncrasies was humming while working."
A person who avoids work or spends time lazily.
"He was known as an idler who wasted his days."
Excessively devoted or reverent towards idols or false gods.
"The ancient tribe was known for its idolatrious practices."
To worship idols; to regard with excessive devotion or admiration.
"They began to idolatrize the statue as a deity."
Excessively admiring or worshipping someone or something as an idol.
"The king was criticized for his idolatrous devotion to wealth."
The worship of idols or extreme admiration for someone or something.
"The priest condemned the idolatry practiced in the village."
An extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque episode or scene, often idealized.
"Their honeymoon was an idyll on a tropical island."
Dishonorable, shameful, or lacking nobility.
"His ignoble actions ruined his reputation."
Marked by shame, disgrace, or humiliation.
"The team suffered an ignominious defeat in the finals."
Public shame, disgrace, or dishonor.
"He lived the rest of his life in ignominy after the scandal."
A religious image or symbol, especially in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
"The church displayed a beautifully painted ikon of the Virgin Mary."
An ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer, describing the events of the Trojan War.
"Students studied the Iliad to understand Greek mythology and heroism."
lacking good manners; rude; showing poor upbringing
"His ill-bred behavior shocked everyone at the dinner party."
Having a bad or unpleasant character; unkind or malicious.
"He made an ill-natured remark about his colleague."
the quality of being impossible or difficult to read; unclear writing or print
"The doctor's handwriting was famous for its illegibility among the pharmacy staff."
Opposed to liberal principles; restricting freedom of thought or behavior.
"The government was criticized for its illiberal policies."
The quality of being illiberal; lack of tolerance or generosity.
"The illiberality of the new laws alarmed the citizens."
Without limits or bounds.
"The universe is often described as illimitable."
A substance or device that produces light.
"The lamp acted as an illuminant in the dark cave."
a group of people claiming to have special enlightenment or secret knowledge, often linked to conspiracies
"Many conspiracy theories involve the Illuminati as a secret world-controlling group."
to light up or make clear
"The rising sun illumined the mountain peaks."
Extreme foolishness, stupidity, or weakness of mind.
"The plan was abandoned due to its sheer imbecility."
