English Vocabulary Dictionary | Word Meanings, Definitions & Examples
having the appearance or characteristics of a tree; tree-like
"The coral had an arborescent form that resembled a miniature forest."
a place where trees, shrubs, and plants are grown for scientific study or public display
"We visited the city’s arboretum to learn about exotic trees."
the cultivation and management of trees and shrubs
"He studied arboriculture to improve urban green spaces."
a covered passage with arches along one or both sides; also a place with coin-operated games
"The children spent the afternoon playing games at the arcade."
understood by few; mysterious or secret
"The professor’s lecture was full of arcane details that only specialists could follow."
a prefix meaning chief, principal, or extreme in rank, importance, or degree
"The word 'archenemy' uses the prefix 'arch-' to mean the main enemy."
the study of human history and prehistory through excavation and analysis of artifacts, monuments, and other physical remains
"She studied archaeology to learn about ancient civilizations."
very old or old-fashioned; belonging to an earlier time
"Some laws are considered archaic and no longer relevant."
a word, expression, or style of language that is no longer in everyday use
"The poem is full of archaisms that give it an old-fashioned flavor."
A high-ranking angel, often considered a chief messenger or leader among angels.
"Michael is often depicted as the most powerful archangel."
A senior bishop in charge of an archdiocese in the Christian Church.
"The archbishop delivered a sermon to thousands of people."
A senior clergyman in the Christian Church ranking below a bishop.
"The archdeacon assisted the bishop in administrative duties."
the study of human history and prehistory through excavation and analysis of artifacts and structures
"She decided to study archeology to learn about ancient civilizations."
The original model or perfect example from which others are copied or derived.
"He is the archetype of a successful entrepreneur."
A group or chain of islands clustered together in a sea or ocean.
"Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago."
a person who designs buildings and oversees their construction
"The architect designed a modern office building."
relating to the design and style of buildings and structures
"The city is known for its beautiful architectural designs."
the art and practice of designing and constructing buildings
"The ancient temples of Greece are famous for their architecture."
A collection of historical documents or records; to store or preserve information for future use.
"The library decided to archive all the old manuscripts."
A place or collection where historical records and documents are stored.
"She visited the national archives to research her family history."
Having or showing very strong feelings or passion.
"He is an ardent supporter of environmental protection."
Great enthusiasm or passion.
"She spoke with ardor about her new project."
Involving or requiring a lot of effort; very difficult and tiring.
"Climbing the mountain was an arduous task."
a particular region or space; the extent of a surface
"This area is known for its beautiful parks."
a large area surrounded by seats for sports, entertainment, or other events
"The basketball game will be held in the new arena downtown."
the specialized vocabulary or jargon of a particular group, especially one with a common interest or occupation
"The thieves communicated in an argot that outsiders could not understand."
open to debate or discussion; not certain and capable of being argued for or against
"It is arguable that technology has improved our quality of life."
used to say that a statement is open to argument or is considered true by many people
"She is arguably the most talented player on the team."
to give reasons for or against something; to dispute or debate
"They often argue about politics during dinner."
a disagreement, or a reason given to support or oppose an idea
"They had a heated argument about money."
a solo vocal piece with instrumental accompaniment, typically in an opera
"The soprano performed a moving aria during the second act."
extremely dry; lacking in interest or excitement
"The desert is known for its arid climate."
The state of being extremely dry, especially having insufficient rainfall to support vegetation.
"The aridity of the land is increasing due to climate change."
to begin to exist or to happen
"Problems may arise if you don't plan ahead."
a class of people holding exceptional rank and privileges, especially hereditary nobility
"The aristocracy often had influence over political decisions."
a member of the aristocracy; a nobleman or woman
"The aristocrat lived in a lavish mansion."
noble; having the manners of the upper class
"She had an aristocratic bearing that commanded respect."
the part of the body from the shoulder to the hand; also a branch or division of an organization
"She broke her arm while playing football."
A large fleet of warships.
"The Spanish Armada sailed against England in 1588."
equipped with or carrying weapons
"The bank was robbed by armed men."
A contest of armed forces; warfare between opposing military forces.
"Armed conflict resulted in widespread devastation."
As much as can be carried in one or both arms.
"She carried an armful of books into the library."
a band worn around the upper arm as an ornament
"The traditional dancer wore golden armlets that gleamed in the spotlight."
A place where weapons are stored; a supply of resources or skills.
"The soldiers kept their weapons in the armory."
protective covering worn by soldiers; metal plating for military vehicles
"The knight wore heavy armour to protect himself in battle."
the hollow area under the arm where it joins the shoulder
"He applied deodorant to his armpit."
weapons and ammunition; or the upper limbs of the human body
"The country decided to reduce its stock of arms."
a large organized military force trained for war
"The army protected the border from attack."
A pleasant, distinctive smell.
"The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen."
to decorate or add beauty to something
"The hall was adorned with flowers for the wedding."