Vocabulary word lists

264 words in eight collections, each with a plain definition, pronunciation, origin and example sentences. Every list has its own word of the day.

Word of the Day for Kids

Expressive, learnable words for ages 7–11, with definitions written for young readers.

Academic and literary words that turn up in essays, textbooks and novels in grades 6–12.

The kind of precise, compact words test-writers love and good essays use sparingly.

Uncommon words with surprising histories. Some are dictionary regulars, a few are modern coinages, and we say which.

Uplifting words for praise, encouragement and writing about good things, each with a precise meaning.

Difficult words that catch out even confident readers, with a note on exactly what makes each one hard.

Words admired for how they sound as much as what they mean, with the stories behind them.

Impressive words worth knowing, with notes on when they help and when they just sound showy.