English Vocabulary Dictionary | Word Meanings, Definitions & Examples
CEFR Level
a subgroup of a larger religious or political group, often with differing beliefs
"The group split into different sects due to doctrinal differences."
relating to or characterized by the differences between sects, often leading to conflict
"The region has been troubled by sectarian violence for decades."
Relating to or designed for a particular sector or industry.
"Sector-specific policies attract targeted investments."
not connected with religious or spiritual matters
"The country adopted a secular constitution separating religion from state affairs."
calm, quiet, and composed; or to administer a drug to make someone calm or sleep
"The nurse sedated the patient before the operation."
A substance that calms the nerves or induces sleep.
"The doctor prescribed a sedative to help the patient sleep."
Characterized by much sitting and little physical activity.
"A sedentary lifestyle can lead to health problems."
Solid particles that settle at the bottom of a liquid.
"The river carries a lot of sediment downstream."
to attract someone into doing something, especially something they might not normally do
"The advertisement was designed to seduce customers into buying luxury products."
the action of seducing someone; temptation to do something wrong
"He fell victim to the seduction of easy money."
dirty, shabby, or in bad condition; also feeling slightly unwell
"He stayed in a seedy motel near the bus station."
to flow or leak slowly through small openings or pores
"Water began to seep through the cracks in the wall."
A person who is supposed to be able to see what will happen in the future; a prophet.
"The seer predicted a great change in the kingdom."
To be filled with intense but unexpressed anger or agitation.
"She was seething with anger after the unfair decision."
Relating to earthquakes or vibrations of the earth and its crust.
"The region is known for its seismic activity."
Excessively preoccupied with oneself and one’s own thoughts, feelings, or interests.
"He was too self-absorbed to notice his friend's distress."
The practice of affirming one's own worthiness and value as an individual.
"Daily self-affirmation can boost your confidence."
not drawing attention to oneself; modest
"Despite his success, he remained self-effacing and humble."
The act of allowing oneself to enjoy pleasures or desires excessively.
"His weekend of self-indulgence included eating sweets and watching movies nonstop."
The quality of being calm and confident and in control of one's emotions; composure.
"His self-possession during the crisis was remarkable."
The practice of restraining oneself from indulging in something, typically an impulse or desire.
"Practicing self-restraint helps in avoiding impulsive decisions."
Having or showing an attitude of moral superiority; believing one’s own beliefs are the only right ones.
"His self-righteous comments made everyone uncomfortable."
the ability to supply one's own needs without external assistance; independence
"The farm achieved complete self-sufficiency in food production."
The quality of being concerned more with the needs of others than with one's own.
"Selflessness is a key value for community building."
Relating to meaning in language or logic.
"The argument was more about semantic differences than real issues."
The outward appearance or form of something, especially when the reality is different.
"Despite his calm tone, there was only a semblance of control in the room."
Occurring twice a year; every six months.
"The company holds a semiannual meeting with all employees."
Strongly influencing later developments; highly original and influential.
"His seminal book changed the course of modern philosophy."
Showing the weaknesses of old age, especially mental decline.
"The old man became senile and forgot familiar faces."
The state of being old and showing the weaknesses of age, especially mental decline.
"His forgetfulness was attributed to senility."
The ability to appreciate and respond to complex emotional or aesthetic influences; sensitivity.
"Her artistic sensibility impressed everyone."
The process of becoming sensitive to a substance, situation, or influence.
"The doctor warned about the sensitization caused by repeated exposure to chemicals."
Related to the five human senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell).
"Sensory feedback enhances the VR experience."
Relating to or involving gratification of the senses and physical pleasure.
"The painting had a sensual quality that captivated viewers."
Relating to or affecting the senses rather than the intellect; pleasing to the senses.
"The garden was filled with sensuous colors and fragrances."
Able to perceive or feel things.
"Humans are sentient beings capable of reasoning."
A soldier or guard whose job is to stand and keep watch.
"A sentinel stood at the entrance of the camp."
A person who supports the separation of a group from a larger body, often for political or cultural independence.
"The separatist group demanded independence from the central government."
Infected with harmful bacteria; relating to or causing infection.
"The doctor treated the patient's septic wound immediately."
To isolate or hide away; to take possession of assets until a debt has been paid.
"The jury was sequestered during the high-profile trial."
Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
"Their meeting at the café was purely serendipitous."
The occurrence of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
"Finding that old photo album was pure serendipity."
Calm, peaceful, and untroubled; tranquil.
"She looked serene as she watched the sunset over the ocean."
The state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
"Meditation brings a sense of serenity to the mind."
A senior non-commissioned officer in the army responsible for discipline and administration within a unit.
"The sergeant-major inspected the troops before the parade."
A religious discourse delivered by a preacher, often offering moral instruction or spiritual guidance.
"The pastor gave a moving sermon about compassion and forgiveness."
Having the shape, movement, or qualities of a serpent; winding or twisting.
"The road took a serpentine path through the mountains."
Having a notched or saw-toothed edge.
"The bread knife had a serrated blade."
fit for use; usable; in working order
"The old bicycle is still serviceable despite its age."
having or showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others
"His servile attitude annoyed his colleagues."