Featured Just for Fun:
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One May At A Time: An Efflorescence of VocabularyExplore These Lists From the May Calendar
Put some spring in your lingo with this freshly picked collection of lists from the May calendar. This month boasts some...
Anon, vocabulary lovers! April 23 is Talk Like Shakespeare Day. To honor the good Bard of Avon, we've put together this...
May is National Pet Month! To celebrate, we put together this collection of books that honor our furry friends, feathery...
School librarians play a crucial role in education by providing access to information, promoting literacy and learning,...
Celebrate the cheesiest holiday of the year with this carblection of vocabulary that's sure to melt your heart and give...
A Total Eclipse of Expressions
Dive into the shadowy realms of the sun and moon as we uncover the mystique of eclipses. From the dazzling dance of...
Words to Help You Win at Scrabble
Like the game chess, competitive Scrabble is immensely popular, and the number of players who compete grows every year....
Spring Has SprungExplore these lists from the April Calendar
April is teeming with occasions to learn new words, from Arbor Day and Grilled Cheese Day, to the Passover and Easter...
Tolkien Reading Day has been celebrated on March 25th every year since 2003. March 25th was chosen as the day to...
Beast Mode: An Ark of Animal WordsExplore the Wild World of Zoological Lingo
The animal kingdom has given us a menagerie of words. You could fill up an entire zoo with the words in this collection...
The Wide Words of SportsGet Your Game On with These Sports-Related Vocab Words
Want a winning vocabulary? Ace vocabulary from tennis, tackle words from football, knock it out of the park with...
In the courtroom of life, lawyers are the ultimate word wizards, sprinkling legal jargon like confetti and turning the...
Just for Fun Vocabulary Lists:
Raining Cats and Dogs
Get ready to make a splash with this rainy-day lexicon — a downpour of words that'll have you singing in the rain and dancing in puddles, because when it rains, it pours...with puns!
Yada Yada Yada
We're celebrating Yada Yada Yada Day like it's the Festivus for the Rest of Us — gifts from one of TV's funniest comedy shows: Seinfeld. So grab your favorite puffy shirt, summon your inner marine biologist, and dive into this hilarious list of words. Serenity Now!
Vocabulary from the Songs of "The Little Mermaid"
Alan Menken, a prolific composer and songwriter, is renowned for his iconic contributions to Disney films, enchanting audiences with his unforgettable melodies and timeless musical scores that have brought beloved characters and stories to life for generations. We honor him with this list of selected lyric vocabulary from The Little Mermaid.
Indiana Jones Vocabulary
Hold onto your fedora as you discover this wild and treasure-filled list of Indiana Jones vocabulary. Who knew archaeology could be this fun?
Photography Lingo
Be sure to zoom in on this list of vocabulary all about cameras and photography and don't forget to smile as you focus!
World Refugee Day
World Refugee Day is an annual observance on June 20th that honors the courage, resilience, and strength of millions of refugees around the world. It serves as a reminder to raise awareness about the challenges faced by refugees, promote empathy, and advocate for their rights and well-being. Study this vocabulary list to learn the important words that you can use to help raise awareness about refugees.
Simply Scandalous!
Avoid embarrassment and expose yourself to this outrageous list of words related to scams and scandals.
That's the Way the Wind Blows
Brace yourself for this breezy and blustery list of words related to wind — it might be a turbulent ride.
Flag Day
The Continental Congress adopted the resolution for the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, but the first claim of a Flag Day celebration was not until 1861 in Hartford, CT. For nearly a century after this, many attempts increased the popularity of June 14 Flag Day commemorations. However, it was not until 1949 that Congress approved — and President Harry Truman signed into law — the national Flag Day observance.
Fabulous Fabrics
Are you ready to weave through this textiletastic list of fabrics? Explore the coziness of cotton and the sleekness of silk. Whether you're into comfort or style, we've got you covered.
Sewing Away
Grab your needles, threads, and thimbles and cut away at this darn list of words about sewing.
Spirit Rover Launches
On June 10, 2003, NASA's Spirit rover was launched to Mars to study the history of climate and water in areas that could once have been favorable to life. A month later, Spirit's twin, Opportunity joined the mission as well. Navigate this list of words and discover what Spirit and Opportunity accomplished from 2003-2011 on the Red Planet. Read the full text by Asif A. Siddiqi here.
Cheesy Goodness
It's a gouda day to melt into this savory list of vocabulary all about cheese. Here are links to our lists in the collection: Cheesy Goodness, A Toast to Bread
Cat Vocabulary: A Feline Lexicon
Whether you're a cat-person or have a case of feline phobia, here are 13 words to describe these lithe, stealthy creatures.
Lyrics from "Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)" by Baz Luhrmann
Grab your shades and groove along this list of words as smooth as SPF 50. This tuneful list will navigate you through life's UV rays, reminding you to lather up with laughter and protect your souls from the burnout of existence. Produced and performed by Baz Luhrmann.
Let's Race!
On your mark...get set...GO! See who will master this list of swift vocabulary all related to the word race. All noun and verb contenders are welcome!
Computer Terms
Scroll down memory lane with this display of computer related vocabulary and become the master of your domain once all the information is in storage.
Music to My Ears: Instrumental Vocab
Listen up! We've assembled a collection of words for unusual musical instruments that will either make you want to cover your ears or pick up a dulcimer and strum along.
Inquire Within: Synoynms for "Ask"
From curious kittens to intrepid reporters, this list dives into the art of inquiry and interrogation, offering words to describe every manner of questioning and quest for knowledge.
A Soccer and a Football Special
Kick off the day by practicing this list of words about soccer, football, or fútbol, if you prefer. And don't forget to scream "Goooooaaaaal" after you master it!
You Are Correct! Synonyms for "Right"
You find this list accurate and authentic...right?
Way Off: Synonyms for "Wrong"
Don't let this list lead you astray, find out what's wrong and see if you can make it right.
Gimme, Gimme, Gimme
National Pack Rat Day is May 17th. Here's a hoard of highly collectable words that'll help you amass an impressive vocabulary. Read the related article: Highly Collectable Words for National Pack Rat Day
Blanch, Poach, and Scald: Cooking Methods
Do you have a searing need for some kitchen terms? A burning desire to learn restaurant lingo? Learn this list and you'll be the toast of the kitchen!
Dazzling Dinosaur Diction
Check out this list of dino-mite vocabulary all about the powerful, prehistoric predators.
A Mythical Menagerie
What a party this list is — some might say "A Monster Mash!" Enjoy the guest list as you learn about these fantastic beasts.
Mother's Day Words: What Mothers Do
At a loss for an original message to put on your Mother's Day card? Consult this list of verbs to remember all your mother has done for you.
Stroke of Genius: Words About Painting
The art of painting is at least 40,000 years old — there's something fundamentally human about the urge to create pictures of the things we see or imagine. Use this list to brush up on your palette of painterly parlance.
We're Excited! Synonyms for "Eager"
This list is brimming with enthusiasm, anticipation, and an insatiable hunger for the next thrilling adventure or tantalizing opportunity that awaits!
Put It This Way: Synonyms for "Describe"
Embark on a journey of storytelling splendor with this vibrant collection of synonyms for describe, guaranteed to add color and depth to your narrative palette.
Simply Scrumptious! Synonyms for "Delicious"
From the flavor of a ripe fruit to the aroma of freshly baked bread, this list explores taste and enjoyment, offering words for every mouthwatering dish and delectable treat.
A Sure Thing: Synonyms for "Definite"
From the certainty of sunrise to the clarity of a crystal, this list explores surety and precision, offering words for every clear decision and unmistakable conclusion.
Lights Out: Synonyms for "Dark"
From the darkness of a moonless night to the mystery of an unlit alleyway, this list explores shadows and obscurity, offering words for all those dim corners and hidden spots.
Uh-Oh: Synonyms for "Dangerous"
From perilous cliffs to toxic substances to daring ventures, this list explores the spectrum of potential harm and threat, offering words to describe unsafe situations and hazards, as well as risky conditions and menaces.
Chop Chop: Synonyms for "Cut"
From the sharpness of a knife to the clarity of a break in the clouds, this list explores separation and precision, offering words for those clean slices and distinct divisions.
Something's Fishy: A Fresh Catch of Aquatic Words
Are you angling for a bigger vocabulary to tell your next fish story? Let this list lure you under the waves, where you'll catch a net full of shiny words from the ocean kingdom. Take the plunge!
Yelping and Yowling: Synonyms for "Cry"
From the sorrow of rain to the emotion in a melody, this list explores tears and expression, offering words for every heartfelt sob and emotional outburst.
Let There Be Light: Synonyms for "Bright"
From the radiance of a smile to the glow of a star, this list explores luminosity and brilliance, offering words for shining lights and dazzling hues.
Blasted to Smithereens: Synonyms for "Break"
From cracking eggs to shattering silence to halting momentum, this list delves into the realm of interruption and disruption, offering words to describe every fracture and rupture in the course of events.
Put on a Bold Face: Synonyms for "Brave"
From fearless adventurers to intrepid explorers to bold trailblazers, this list delves into the realm of courage and daring, offering words to describe every audacious and courageous act, whether big or small.
So Bad: Synonyms for "Awful"
Wow! Synonyms for "Amazing"
From shooting stars to majestic mountain views, this wonderful list captures words to describe everything from the sublime to the sensational.
Twirling in Tutus: Ballet Vocabulary
Be on your toes as you glide through this list of ballet terms. A dancer's stamina may be necessary.
Calamity, Catastrophe, and Crisis: Disaster Words
Whether your soufflé collapsed or there's an asteroid headed for the Earth, one of these words is sure to fit every bad situation.
Cinco de Mayo: Words to Celebrate Mexico
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with English words of Spanish origin. Following the Mexican victory over the invading French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, Mexican communities in California and eventually the rest of the United States transformed this day into a celebration of Mexican culture.
May the 4th Be With You: Star Wars Words
Rejoice, Star Wars fans! May the 4th is National Star Wars Day! The epic film series launched plenty of words — like Jedi and Wookiee — but it also made use of existing words, giving them a new spin, and a new force, if you will. Our Star Wars lexicon will serve you well in any galaxy. Read the full article here.
Journalism Jargon
Here's the scoop! This list of journalism terms is a source of important media vocabulary.
May Day
Observe this laborious list of words all about May Day also known as International Workers' Day, in honor of all that unions and the labor movement have achieved throughout history.
From Ascension to Zenith: Astronomy and Stargazing Terms
The night sky is full of wonders, and this list will help you make sense of what you see. Learn this list and become a vocabulary star!
Superhero Lexicon
Words shouldn’t be your kryptonite. Arm yourself with an indestructible vocabulary, starting with these terms from the superhero genre. For more, check out the full article: The Powerful Lingo of Superheroes
Featured Roots & Affixes:
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It's the End of the Word as We Know It: Common Suffixes
Delve into this collection of common English suffixes and get to the end!
Foreign Words and Phrases Used in English
You've got carte blanche to learn these foreign words and phrases that commonly appear in English speech and writing....
Essential Word RootsA Garden of Resources for Budding Etymologists
Grow your vocabulary by mastering the most common Greek and Latin word roots used in English. Our essential collection...
Common SensesSense-ational Word Roots
Now hear this! Come to your senses and master words related to seeing, hearing, and touching. You’ll get a taste for...
We the PeopleWord Roots for Citizens of the World
This truly civilized collection will help you master word roots related to humanity and society, from civ (“citizen”) to...
Elements of the UniverseExplore the Cosmos with These Word Roots
Want to fire up your vocabulary? The sky’s the limit with our lists of elemental word roots. Master a universe of words...
Body LanguageWord Roots to Help You Dissect Anatomical Terms
Do you have the guts to learn the etymological roots of words related to the human body? Then explore our Body Language...
Roots & Affixes Vocabulary Lists:
Total Recall: Mem
Don't forget this list of words derived from the Latin memoria meaning "memory or remembrance."
English Words Derived from Arabic
All of the English words on this lists have Arabic origins. While some, like caliph and imam, clearly come from Arabic sources, you might be surprised to discover that algebra, chemistry, and zero are also derived from Arabic. Learn these words that contribute to the richness and variety of the English language.
English Words Derived from Indigenous Languages of the Americas
Here are 15 common English words whose roots come from indigenous languages of the Americas. The fate of the people who spoke these languages varies greatly, from tribes lost to history (that we only know about through records of other tribes) to the Guarani, whose language at last count had over 4 million speakers in Paraguay. All of these peoples, whatever their current status, have contributed their ideas and their perspectives through the English words below. Many of these terms have to do with animals and foods to be found in nature, but the Algonquian roots of "tuxedo" may come as a surprise! Read on below for tales of many more English words from indigenous sources.
Perfect Ten: Dec, Cent, Mille
These words derive from the Latin roots dec ("ten"), cent ("hundred"), and mille ("thousand"). Start a practice session and see if you can score 100 percent!
In the Know: Cogn, Conn
Knowledge is power, so learn these words that derive from the Latin roots cogn and conn, meaning "know, learn."
Power Suffix: -scope
Have a close look at this list of words that include the suffix -scope, meaning "an instrument for observing." The Latinized scopium derives from the Greek skopein, "to look, to examine."
Power Suffix: -escence
Learn this list of words that include the suffix -escence, meaning the "process or state of being."
Power Suffix: -acy
Derived from Latin, the English suffix -acy in English means "the state of" or "the quality or condition of."
More English Words Derived from Yiddish
English has borrowed many words from Yiddish, which is itself an amalgam of German, Russian, Hebrew and many other languages. Here are 15 more English words that derive from Yiddish — some of which are very common, and some of which might be less familiar to you. Looking for more Yiddish-derived words? Check out our original list of English Words Derived from Yiddish.
Body Parts: Neur ("Nerve")
You've got a lot of nerve — so learn this list of words that derive the Latin word neuron, meaning "nerve." Want to dissect more English words related to anatomy? Here are links to our complete set of Body Language lists: Corp ("Body") / Capit, Capt ("Head") / Or, Os ("Mouth") / Dent, Dont ("Tooth") / Gastr, Gastro ("Stomach") / Neur ("Nerve") / Man ("Hand") / Ped, Pod ("Foot") / Derm ("Skin") / Carn ("Flesh") / Os, Osteo ("Bone") / Cor, Cord, Cardio ("Heart") / Psych ("Mind")
Power Suffix: -ology
Derived from the Greek suffix -logia, the suffix -ology in English means "the science of or the study of."
Frankenwords: Words with Roots from Different Languages
Words derived from more than one language are called "hybrid words." Many hybrid words in English have a combination of Latin and Greek roots, but you'll also find other interesting combinations in the list below.
Speak Your Mind: Anim
Learn these words derived from the Latin root anim, which has many meanings, including "breath," "mind," "spirit," and "courage."
Walk the Walk: Amb
Learn these words derived from the Latin verb ambulare, meaning "to walk or go about."
Twists and Turns: Tor
Turn your attention to these words derived from the Latin root tor, meaning "to twist and turn" and "to distort."
Good Grief!: Grav, Griev
Weigh in on this list of words derived from the Latin gravare, meaning "to make heavy" or "to cause grief."
Words to Live By: Bio
Are you ready to learn the facts of life? Then review these words from the Greek root bio, meaning "life" or "way of living."
Make a Run for It: Cur, Curs
Need a crash course in words that derive from the Latin roots cur and curs, meaning "run"? This list will give you a run for your money!
Case Closed: Clud, Clus
Open your mind and practice this list of words derived from the Latin roots clud and clus, meaning "shut, enclose, or confine."
Play by the Rules: Arch
Learn these words derived from the Greek word arkhos, meaning "ruler, chief, principal, or leader."
Break It Down: Cata
Learn these words derived from the Greek root kata-, which has a range of meanings including "down," "through," "against" "across," "along with," and "wrongly."
Believe It or Not: Cred
You can believe in this list of words derived from the Latin root cred, meaning "to believe."
Send a Message: Mit and Miss
Your mission? To learn these words derived from the Latin roots mit- and miss-, meaning "to send."
Power Prefix: dis-
Meaning "not" or "opposite of," this common prefix is used in words like disagree ("to be of different or conflicting opinions") and disgust ("a strong feeling of dislike"). Learn these words that contain the prefix dis-. Want to increase your prefix power? Learn our complete set of Power Prefix lists: anti-, con-, dis-, ex-, fore-, inter-, mis-, pre-, pro-, sub-, super-, trans-, uni-
Power Suffix: -ful
The suffix -ful means "characterized by" or "full of." For example, a joyful song is characterized by joy or happiness. Learn these words that include the suffix -ful.
Power Suffix: -less
The suffix -less, meaning "without," is added to nouns and verbs to form adjectives. For example, a hopeless situation is a situation without hope. Learn these words that use the suffix less.
Make a Break for It: Rupt
You'll be bursting with pride after you master this list of words derived from the Latin root rupt, meaning "burst or break."
Power Suffix: -ism
The suffix ism is added to words to mean "the process or action of" or "the system, principle, or theory of." We're sure you'll learn these -ism words with optimism!
The Mother of All Lists: Mater, Matr
Hit the mother lode and learn these words derived from the Latin root māter and the Greek root metèr, both meaning "mother."
Let There Be Light: Lum and Luc
Here's a bright idea: learn these words that contain the roots lum and luc, which come from the Latin word lux and lumen, meaning "light."
Lead the Way: Duc and Duct
Learn these words derived from the Latin roots duc and duct, meaning "to lead" or "to guide."
Make Do: Fac
Practice these words that derive from the Latin root fac, meaning "make" or "do." This list is sure to make your day!
You Be the Judge: Jud, Jur, Jus
Practice these words that contain the Latin roots jud, jur, and jus, meaning "law" or "justice."
Fighting Words: Belli and Milit
If you're spoiling for a fight, learn these words from the Latin roots belli ("war") and milit ("soldier").
Stay Strong: Forc and Fort
Test your strength against this list of vocabulary words that use the Latin roots forc and fort, meaning "strong."
You Can Say That Again: Dic and Dict
Practice this list of English words derived from the Latin roots dic and dict, which mean "say" or "declare."
Give Me a Break!: Fract and Frag
Break new ground with this list of words derived from the Latin verb frangere, "to break, shatter, or fracture."
Against All Odds: Contra and Counter
Learn these words that contain the roots contra or counter, meaning "against" or "opposite."
It's About Time: Chron and Temp
Take the time to learn these words that contain either the Latin root temp or the Greek root chron, both of which mean "time."
To Thine Own Self Be True: Auto
Learn these list of words that contain the Greek root auto, meaning "self."
Write On!: Graph and Gram
Practice this vocabulary list and explore words that contain the Greek roots graph ("write/writing") and gram ("written thing").
Take the Bad with the Good: Bene and Mal
Learn this list of words containing the common word roots bene ("good") and mal ("bad").
All You Need is Love: Amor and Phil
Do you want to know what love is? Cozy up to these 14 words derived from the Latin root amor and Greek root phil.
English Words Derived from Gaelic
Here we present 15 words that passed through Gaelic on their way to English. Some are stereotypically Gaelic, like bog and clan, but others, like loop and curmudgeon, may surprise you. You can read more about words from the Emerald Isle in Beyond Shamrocks and Leprechauns.
Some Obscure Eponyms
When something is named after a person or a place or a company, we call that name an eponym. If you know anyone who says "Get me a Kleenex" instead of "Get me a tissue," they are using an eponym every time they have to sneeze. Eponyms are everywhere- in science, medicine, the arts. This list focuses on words that are historically eponyms but are so common that their history of deriving from names has been obscured. In this list, the history of eponyms you didn't realize were eponyms is revealed.
Power Prefix: Anti
Learn these words beginning with the prefix anti, meaning "against," "in opposition to," or "opposite of." Want to increase your prefix power? Learn our complete set of Power Prefix lists: anti-, con-, dis-, ex-, fore-, inter-, mis-, pre-, pro-, sub-, super-, trans-, uni-
Latin Love, Vol I: sci
The root of this "knowledge" word tree usually appears as "sci." Its most famous branch is the word "science." More Latin Love, Volume I lists: vocare, portare, struere, and via! ELA Common Core State Standard: "Use common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word."
Body Language: Corp ("Body")
Learn these words that derive from the Latin word corpus, meaning "body." Want to dissect more English words related to anatomy? Here are links to our complete set of Body Language lists: Corp ("Body") / Capit, Capt ("Head") / Or, Os ("Mouth") / Dent, Dont ("Tooth") / Gastr, Gastro ("Stomach") / Neur ("Nerve") / Man ("Hand") / Ped, Pod ("Foot") / Derm ("Skin") / Carn ("Flesh") / Os, Osteo ("Bone") / Cor, Cord, Cardio ("Heart") / Psych ("Mind")
We the People: Civ
The words on this list all share the root civ, from the Latin civis, meaning "citizen." Work your way through these lists focused on Greek and Latin roots representing people and the social units they form: Gen, Ethn, Dem, Pop, Soc, Civ, Anthrop
Latin Root "sub" Words
Learn these words beginning with the power prefix "sub-" (meaning "below" or "under"). More Power Prefix lists: anti-, con-, fore-, inter-, mis-, pre-, super-, trans-, and uni-! ELA Common Core State Standard: "Use common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word."
Featured Current Events:
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Ripped from the Headlines: March 2024Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: February 2024Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: January 2024Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
In Memoriam 2023Honoring Notable Figures We Lost This Year
This collection is a tribute to some of those who passed in 2023, including influential figures in politics and...
Ripped from the Headlines: December 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: November 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: October 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: September 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: August 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: July 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: June 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Ripped from the Headlines: May 2023Our Weekly Roundups of Current Events Vocabulary
Each week, we peruse the news to give you a word’s-eye view of what’s happening in the world. Here are some of our...
Current Events Vocabulary Lists:
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for June 3–June 9, 2023
Stories about an elderly cat, a champion speller, and an accomplished dog all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 8–June 14, 2024
Stories about a thrilling cricket match, a rash of Lego thefts, and a rascally giraffe all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 1–June 7, 2024
Stories about the dark side of the moon, a champion gymnast, and teenage orcas all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 25–May 31, 2024
Stories about counting crows, an enormous picnic, and first-class travel for dogs all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 18–May 24, 2024
Stories about a historic swarm of mosquitos, a stamp that smells like fresh bread, and a 90-year-old astronaut all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 11–May 17, 2024
Stories about a champion poodle, the northern lights, and a heroic horse rescue all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 4–May 10, 2024
Stories about a giant oyster, a whale alphabet, and a prizewinning horse all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 27–May 3, 2024
Stories about runaway zebras, a stowaway cat, and a snake as long as a school bus all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 20–April 26, 2024
Stories about a meteor shower, valuable elk antlers, and hundreds of ballerinas all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Billie Holiday (1915–1959) Tribute List
This list is a tribute to Billie Holiday — American jazz singer and a cultural icon from the 1930s to the 1950s. She sang jazz and blues with a unique, instinctive, and moving style.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 30–April 5, 2024
Stories about a friendly stork, an explosion of honeybees, and a thrilling basketball game all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 23–March 29, 2024
Stories about fast-food chicken, a macaroni and cheese factory, and the speediest servers in Paris all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 16–March 22, 2024
Stories about supersonic jets, an ancient astrolabe, and a pet alligator all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 9–March 15, 2024
Stories about an ancient lipstick, an updated SAT, and cat communication all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 2–March 8, 2024
Stories about moving sand dunes, a dinosaur skeleton, and a record-breaking basketball player all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 17–February 23, 2024
Stories about teasing apes, destructive earthworms, and sleepy birds all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 10–February 16, 2024
Stories about hard-working camels, a lucky dragon, and a seeing-eye penguin all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 3–February 9, 2024
Stories about our shrinking moon, an ancient armored glove, and a great reason to get a dog all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 27–February 2, 2024
Stories about a famous pair of shoes, an iconic toy store, and a legendary pilot's lost plane all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 20–January 26, 2024
Stories about wagging dog tails, a famous flouncy skirt, and a horde of noisy insects all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 13–January 19, 2024
Stories about a historic NFL playoff win, bitterly cold weather, and funny snowplow nicknames all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 6–January 12, 2024
Stories about secret cats, Reese's Peanut Butter Pumpkins in court, and a surrogate dog mom all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for December 16–December 22, 2023
Stories about a popular cartoon dog, a valuable pair of sneakers, and a sustainable Christmas tree all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for December 9–December 15, 2023
Stories about a dinosaur's dinner, an animatronic rock band, and a well-paid baseball player all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for December 2–December 8, 2023
Stories about sleepy penguins, college football, and a huge iceberg on the move all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Sandra Day O'Connor (1930–2023) Tribute List
American jurist, attorney, and politician, Sandra Day O'Connor was Reagan-nominated and unanimously Senate-confirmed as the first female Supreme Court Justice, serving from 1981 to 2006. Prior to the Court, she held high-level judicial and state senate positions in Arizona. As a moderate conservative on the Supreme Court, she wrote majority opinions in numerous landmark cases on abortion, affirmative action, sex discrimination, voting rights, and the 2000 presidential decision, Bush v. Gore. Justice O'Connor was known for clear-eyed judicial reasoning, consensus building, and civility. After retirement, she advocated tirelessly for judicial independence, civics education, and the Rule of Law. In 2009, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This tribute highlights O'Connor's achievements through news articles, biographical information, and quotes.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 25–December 1, 2023
Stories about a plan to save sea turtles, an oversupply of apples, and the White House Christmas tree all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 11–November 17, 2023
Stories about expressive cats, a festival of lights, and a rare postage stamp all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Event Vocabulary for November 4–November 10, 2023
Stories about hallucinating chatbots, a Taylor Swift blockbuster, and a desert oasis all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Richard Roundtree (1942-2023) Tribute List
Richard Roundtree — an American actor of stage, screen, and television for five decades — is best known for the 1971 film Shaft (and four of its sequels) as the revolutionary, iconic NYC private detective John Shaft. Diverging from traditional black male film roles, Roundtree's trailblazing Shaft became "the first Black action hero" and helped create an entire genre: Blaxploitation. Beyond Shaft, Roundtree starred in the 1977 television series Roots, the soap opera Generations (1989–1991), and over 150 films. Roundtree's accolades include: a 1972 Golden Globe nomination (most promising male newcomer); a 1994 MTV Lifetime Achievement Award for Shaft; a 2002 Peabody Award; and a 2010 Black Theater Alliance Lifetime Achievement Award. This tribute honors Roundtree's Hollywood career with movie quotes and biographical information.
BACKUP ORIGINAL TWIW October 21–October 27, 2023
Stories about moon crystals, Barbie costumes, and an enormous tortoise all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Event Vocabulary for October 21–October 27, 2023
Stories about moon crystals, Barbie costumes, and an enormous tortoise all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for October 14–October 20, 2023
Stories about a Taylor Swift movie, an elusive woodpecker, and the world's spiciest pepper all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for October 7–October 13, 2023
Stories about playful whales, a supportive alligator, and fat bears all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for September 30–October 6, 2023
Stories about an adventurous sea lion, an astounding astronomical discovery, and award-winning scientists all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Bill Withers (1938–2020) Tribute List
Bill Withers, one of the most popular and influential songwriters of the 1970s, died on April 2. His importance is especially remarkable given how late he started — well into his 30s — and how short his music career was. He made eight records between 1971-78, and then one more in 1985 before walking away from the music business forever. While his songs were heartfelt and sincere, his speeches were hilarious and sarcastic, particularly the one he gave when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Dianne Feinstein (1933–2023) Tribute List
Dianne Feinstein – American, Democratic, bipartisan, and moderate politician – became the first female mayor of San Francisco (1978–1988), the first California female U.S. senator, the longest-serving U.S. senator from California, and the longest-tenured female U.S. senator in history (1992–2023). The 1978 assassinations of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and City Supervisor Harvey Milk led to the beginning of Feinstein's national political career as mayor of San Francisco. Her six-decade-long career built a significant record of legislative achievements across a wide range of issues, which include: authoring the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban, mentoring many other female politicians, and helping to improve civil rights, gun control, automobile fuel efficiency, gay rights, national and state parks, AMBER Alert System, drug trafficking, cybersecurity, sex abuse and trafficking, immigration, national security, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food safety, as well as combating wildfires...
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for September 23–September 29, 2023
Stories about hungry bears, Taylor Swift, and colorful trees all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for September 16–September 22, 2023
Stories about braille Lego bricks, an intrepid 93-year-old, and a tiny koala all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for September 9–September 15, 2023
Stories about perfumed mummies, cats gone wild, and a newly discovered comet all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for September 2–September 8, 2023
Stories about radioactive pigs, a daring Antarctic rescue, and an enormous alligator all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Jimmy Buffett (1946–2023) Tribute List
Jimmy Buffett – American singer-songwriter, musician, author, and entrepreneur – was best known for his tropical folk-rock music, capturing "island escapism," especially in his "Big 8" hit songs, including "Margaritaville," "Come Monday," and "Cheeseburger in Paradise." Buffett's six-decade music career – incorporating thoughtful ballads, folk, rock, Caribbean, country, and even reggae music – produced eight gold albums and nine platinum/multi-platinum albums, while he became one of the most successful popular music performers. Building upon his musical fame, Buffett found success in multiple business ventures, including restaurant chains, hotels, and retirement communities. Hopefully his fans, the "Parrotheads," will appreciate this tribute which highlights Buffett's lyrics and biographical information.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for August 26–September 1, 2023
Stories about a superstar gymnast, a moon landing, and a runaway bear all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for August 19–August 25, 2023
Stories about a beloved orca, a fast runner, and a daring rescue all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for August 12–August 18, 2023
Stories about a winning hairstyle, a flavorless candy, and firefighting goats all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for August 5–August 11, 2023
Stories about stress-reducing dogs, the iconic Hollywood sign, and a new national monument all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for July 29–August 4, 2023
Stories about a meteor shower, an ancient theater, and a meat allergy all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for July 22–July 28, 2023
Stories about Barbie mania, a new Twitter logo, and a rabbit invasion all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Tony Bennett (1926–2023) Tribute List
Throughout his worldwide career, Tony Bennett — American crooner — garnered 19 Grammy Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award, two Primetime Emmy Awards, an NEA Jazz Master, and a Kennedy Center Honoree. Best known for his signature song, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," Bennett's eight-decade-long career was grounded in the "Great American Songbook" and highlighted by duet collaborations with many famous artists. Beyond music, Bennett served in WWII, was involved in the civil rights movement, and co-founded the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts with his wife Susan. In 2016, Bennett was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, but courageously continued his singing career into 2022. This tribute honors his illustrious career through song lyrics and biographical articles.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for July 15–July 21, 2023
Stories about Wimbledon disruptors, movie stars on strike, and the sound of silence all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for July 8–July 14, 2023
Stories about home runs on hot days, Elton John's final concert, and depressing home decor all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Alan Arkin (1934–2023) Tribute List
Alan Arkin – American actor, comedian, director, producer, author, screenwriter, and singer – plied his art deftly for eight decades, which began by co-writing Harry Belafonte's famous "The Banana Boat Song." Arkin's early career spanned a wide spectrum: from an original Second City role to his Tony-nominated Best Direction of a Play for Neil Simon's The Sunshine Boys. His nearly seven dozen film credits are highlighted by The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming, Wait Until Dark, The Heart is a Lonely Hunter, Catch-22, The In-Laws, Edward Scissorhands, Little Miss Sunshine, Get Smart, and Argo. Arkin's illustrious screen, stage, and television career garnered an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, two SAG Awards, and a Tony Award. This tribute is based on Arkin's movie quotes and biographical articles.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for July 1–July 7, 2023
Stories about a gymnastics superstar, octopus babies, and an expensive typo all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for June 24–June 30, 2023
Stories about Roman graffiti, a determined dog, and newborn turtles all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for June 17–June 23, 2023
Stories about smelly crickets, an ancient fossil, and expensive orange juice all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Cormac McCarthy (1933–2023) Tribute List
Cormac McCarthy, widely regarded as one of the greatest American writers, authored twelve novels, as well as plays, screenplays, and short stories, spanning the Western and post apocalyptic genres. McCarthy's first widespread success was the award-winning All the Pretty Horses. This was the first novel of his Border Trilogy, which included The Crossing and Cities of the Plain. A number of McCarthy’s novels were adapted into films; for example, No Country for Old Men which became a critical and commercial success, winning four Academy Awards. But it was his post-apocalyptic The Road which won the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Fiction. This tribute highlights McCarthy's illustrious career through quotes and biographical articles.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for June 10–June 16, 2023
Stories about elephant yoga, a Reddit boycott, and an incredible jungle rescue all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for May 27–June 2, 2023
Stories about octopus dreams, a canal full of green water, and an amazingly adaptive brain all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Tina Turner (1939–2023) Tribute List
Tina Turner was widely seen as the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll." Turner, as part of the Ike & Tina duo, reached fame with hits such as "River Deep – Mountain High" and "Proud Mary," before their break up in 1976. Then, Tina launched her successful solo career, producing many of her most famous songs, including the No. 1 hit "What's Love Got to Do with It." She also acted in films over three decades. One of the best-selling recording artists of all time winning numerous awards, Turner received 12 Grammys, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as inductions into the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This tribute highlights her career through her lyrics and biographical information.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for May 20–May 26, 2023
Stories about blue jeans, sad songs, and stylish saris all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for May 13–May 19, 2023
Stories about a seltzer museum, a baguette competition, and a very sad goat all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for May 6–May 12, 2023
Stories about a long-lost artwork, a prizewinning dog, and a newly-crowned king all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Gordon Lightfoot (1938–2023) Tribute List
Canadian singer-songwriter, Gordon Lightfoot, achieved international success in folk, folk-rock, and country music, and helped define folk-pop music of the 1960s and 1970s. Several of his albums achieved gold and multi-platinum status internationally, and his songs have been recorded by many notable artists. The following Lightfoot hits topped the U.S. Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary (AC) charts: "If You Could Read My Mind" (1970), "Sundown" and "Carefree Highway" (1974), "Rainy Day People" (1975), and "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" (1976). Some of his many awards include 13 JUNO Awards, five Grammy Award nominations, 1986 Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee, 1997 Governor General's Performing Arts Award (Canada's highest honor in the performing arts), and his 2012 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. This tribute honors Lightfoot using lyrics and biographical articles.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 29–May 5, 2023
Stories about pollinating frogs, picketing writers, and pesky seagulls all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Harry Belafonte (1927–2023) Tribute List
American singer, actor, and activist, Harry Belafonte popularized calypso music in the 1950s. Over the course of his seven-decade career he earned an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony (EGOT). Beyond calypso, Belafonte performed many other genres: blues, folk, gospel, show tunes, and American standards. He also starred in many films, primarily in the '50s and the '70s. Equally important to him was his longtime involvement in various human rights causes. A close friend of Martin Luther King, Jr., Belafonte was an active supporter of the civil rights movement and African humanitarian efforts. Internationally-acclaimed, and a member of the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame, Harry Belafonte's life is highlighted in this tribute through song lyrics, quotes, and biographical articles.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 22–April 28, 2023
Stories about a tiny White House intruder, a Disneyland dragon in flames, and a savvy insect-eating plant all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 15–April 21, 2023
Stories about a proud eagle dad, expensive highway litter, and a disastrous rocket launch all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 8–April 14, 2023
Stories about wild parrots, moon-bathing turtles, and clever goats all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 1–April 7, 2023
Stories about a famous polyester suit, a gigantic omelet, and a college basketball victory all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for March 25–March 31, 2023
Stories about popular shoes, planetary alignment, and TikTok on trial all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for March 18–March 24, 2023
Stories about the vernal equinox, contraband peanut butter, and new NASA spacesuits all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for March 11–March 17, 2023
Stories about prolific pollen, libeled lobsters, and a downed drone all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for February 25–March 3, 2023
Stories about a mythical Mayan creature, a Disneyland devotee, and a new baseball rule all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for February 18–February 24, 2023
Stories about a Frappuccino recall, stolen chocolate eggs, and a broken "balloon dog" sculpture all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Raquel Welch (1940–2023) Tribute List
Raquel Welch was an American actress and model, who first won attention for her role in Fantastic Voyage (1966). She then made One Million Years B.C. (1966). Other film credits included Bandolero! (1968) and The Three Musketeers (1974) for which she received a Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture Actress in a Musical or Comedy. She also had successful roles in television movies, like The Legend of Walks Far Woman (1980) and Right to Die (1987) in which she was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in Television Film. Her legacy is summarized through film quotes and biographic articles for this tribute.
Burt Bacharach (1928–2023) Tribute List
American composer, songwriter, record producer, and pianist, Burt Bacharach, is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures of 20th-century popular music. For six decades, he composed hundreds of pop songs, collaborating with lyricist Hal David (as well as Carole Sager and Christopher Cross). Bacharach's music has unusual and atypical chord progressions, unconventional and shifting time signatures, jazz harmonies, uncommon selections of instruments, and memorable melodies. Over 1,000 different artists have recorded Bacharach's songs, including Dionne Warwick and Tom Jones. He won three Academy Awards, six Grammys, and one Emmy. This tribute highlights Bacharach's legacy through song lyrics and biographical material.
Cindy Williams (1947–2023) Tribute List
Cindy Williams, American actress and producer, began her career in the 1970s starring on stage, film, and television for five decades. Best known for her iconic role as Shirley Feeney on the television sitcoms Happy Days, and Laverne & Shirley, Williams earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in 1978. Her film credits began with famed director George Cukor's Travels with My Aunt, then George Lucas' American Graffiti (earning a BAFTA nomination as Best Supporting Actress), and Francis Ford Coppola's The Conversation. This tribute includes quotes, news articles, and a biographical family statement.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for February 11–February 17, 2023
Stories about the Super Bowl, a distant galaxy, and an official state scent all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for February 4–February 10, 2023
Stories about marshmallow Peeps, Beyoncé, and a bear on Mars all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for January 28–February 3, 2023
Stories about candlepin bowling, a terrifying turkey, and an unusual Super Bowl all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for January 21–January 27, 2023
Stories about Oscar nominations, young magazine editors, and Earth's rotating core all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for January 7–January 13, 2023
Stories about cheerful lumberjacks, intelligent dinosaurs, and star-shaped pasta all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for December 31–January 6, 2023
Stories about brand new citizens, a see-through frog, and a coyote invasion all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for December 17–December 23, 2022
Stories about a World Cup win, Christmas carolers, and a hungry hippo all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for December 10–December 16, 2022
Stories about a camel pageant, a unicorn license, and a very old pair of pants all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for December 3–December 9, 2022
Stories about a dangerous Grand Canyon stunt, Vermont shrimp farmers, and a Sesame Street cast member all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Loretta Lynn (1932–2022) Tribute List
Loretta Lynn, widely viewed as the Queen of Country Music, was a singer/songwriter for six decades, beginning in the 1960s. With multiple gold albums and numerous No. 1 singles, Lynn set herself apart with a trailblazing spirit, signature musicality, and authentic country style. As of 2022, she was inducted into more music Halls of Fame than any female recording artist. Part Cherokee, raised in Butcher Hollow, KY, she wrote straightforward lyrics that captured her life and feelings. Her most famous single, "Coal Miner's Daughter," became a 1980 film of the same name. This vocabulary list includes words from her lyrics, famous quotes, as well as statements from her obituary and memorial.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 12–November 18, 2022
Stories about an inflatable flying saucer, a popular Marvel movie, and a less popular hairstyle all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 5–November 11, 2022
Stories about playful bumblebees, a toxic toad, and stressed-out mice all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 29–November 4, 2022
Stories about recreational fear, astronaut shelters on Mars, and King Tut's tomb all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 22–October 28, 2022
Stories about expensive bread, gravestone recipes, and a Ghostbusters hotel all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 15–October 21, 2022
Stories about a sarcastic fish, a Japanese anime theme park, and a beloved bird all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 8–October 14, 2022
Stories about Indigenous People's Day, urban coyotes, and a cursed concert hall all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 1–October 7, 2022
Stories about Fat Bear Week, pro pickleball, and a 40-foot human tower all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 24–September 30, 2022
Stories about Elton John, a rocket-asteroid collision, and shy raccoons all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 17–September 23, 2022
Stories about basketball champions, quadrillions of ants, and the Eiffel Tower all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 10–September 16, 2022
Stories about a historic Emmy win, Snoopy in space, and the death of a queen all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 3–September 9, 2022
Stories about underwater tourism, electric rickshaws, and a hydrogen-powered train all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 27–September 2, 2022
Stories about an enormous pumpkin, a valuable baseball card, and a delayed rocket launch all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 20–August 26, 2022
Stories about an internet meme, a tennis star, and a 17-year-old solo pilot all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 13–August 19, 2022
Stories about invasive donkeys, dreaming spiders, and an underwater village all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 6–August 12, 2022
Stories about sociable dolphins, a mustard shortage, and a swarm of escaped bees all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 30–August 5, 2022
Stories about mysterious holes on the ocean floor, a 500-year-old shark, and a helpful hawk all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 23–July 29, 2022
Stories about space trash, baby talk, and butterflies all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 16–July 22, 2022
Stories about the brains of woodpeckers, a celebrity wedding, and baby sharks all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 9–July 15, 2022
Stories about the world's largest parrot colony, an expensive dinosaur skeleton, and the remains of a 17th-century shipwreck all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 25–July 1, 2022
Stories about 100-year-old tortoises, helpful rats, and friends who smell like each other all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 18–June 24, 2022
Stories about catnip, a record-breaking triathlete, and a baby aardvark all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 11–June 17, 2022
Stories about Queen Elizabeth, Justin Bieber, and superworms all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 4–June 10, 2022
Stories about driverless taxi cabs, dancing baseball players, and a plant that clones itself all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 21–May 27, 2022
Stories about a hidden underground forest, edible tape, and a peanut butter recall all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 14–May 20, 2022
Stories about expensive dinosaur bones, a lunar eclipse, and a generous graduation gift all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 7–May 13, 2022
Stories about a horse race, a heroic pizza delivery driver, and the new Dr. Who all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 30–May 6, 2022
Stories about Broadway superstitions, a Ukrainian opera singer, and an ancient swan all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 23–April 29, 2022
Stories about a bug named after a pop star, indoor mushrooms, and scientists who study Oreos all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 16–April 22, 2022
Stories about the Boston Marathon, a "burned toast" comet, and highly adaptable birds all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 9–April 15, 2022
Stories about a fugitive flamingo, emotional robots, and a dog who works at a hospital all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 2–April 8, 2022
Stories about the beginning of Ramadan, saving salamanders, and a basketball championship all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 26–April 1, 2022
Stories about a historic Oscar win, an underground concert, and Taylor Swift's honorary degree all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 19–March 25, 2022
Stories about brilliant birds, a valuable Marvel comic, and a global increase in kindness all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 12–March 18, 2022
Stories about galloping sea creatures, a green river, and defective ice cream machines all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for March 5–March 11, 2022
Stories about a mood-boosting hotline, a giant sloth, and space trash on a collision course with the moon all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 26–March 4, 2022
Stories about a Supreme Court nominee, therapy dogs at the dentist, and paper plates made of leaves all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 19–February 25, 2022
Stories about pig welfare, lizard tails, and an Antarctic expedition all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 12–February 18, 2022
Stories about chimps who practice medicine, a Super Bowl win, and bionic eyes all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for February 5–February 11, 2022
Stories about sociable groundhogs, a champion skier, and a treatment for hiccups all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 29–February 4, 2022
Stories about a very old tortoise, a hidden coral reef, and ancient lap dogs all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 15–January 21, 2022
Stories about a rare coin, a possible cure for dog allergies, and a famous hotel all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 8–January 14, 2022
Stories about a party for a queen, a helpful badger, and chilly temperatures all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for January 1–January 7, 2022
Stories about baby orangutans, what science says about eating snow, and champion figure skaters all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for December 18–December 24, 2021
Stories about a runaway Christmas camel, a new White House puppy, and a 12-year-old golfer all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for December 11–December 17, 2021
Stories about shooting stars, cats that live in a palace, and speedy dinosaurs all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for December 4–December 10, 2021
Stories about a dinosaur's holiday sweater, frog robots, and a cream cheese shortage all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 27–December 3, 2021
Stories about a dog rescued from a tortoise burrow, a fire-eating fungus, and a search for extraterrestrials all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
Stephen Sondheim (1930–2021) Tribute List
Stephen Sondheim was one of the most influential composers and lyricists in American musical theater. His works include Follies, Sweeney Todd, Sundays in the Park with George, and Into the Woods. He won numerous accolades, including eight Tony Awards, eight Grammy awards, an Academy Award, and the Pulitzer Prize. Sondheim mentored other composers, including Jonathan Larson and Lin-Manuel Miranda. He passed away on November 26, 2021, at the age of 91.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 20–November 26, 2021
Stories about a Thanksgiving parade, humpback whales, and a lunar eclipse all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 13–November 19, 2021
Stories about a recovered teddy bear, a new Muppet, and a cotton candy lobster all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 6–November 12, 2021
Stories about a fish with terrifying teeth, Teslas gone haywire, and an intrepid 83-year-old hiker all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 30–November 5, 2021
Stories about an abundance of avocados, an award-winning bat, and a massive skyscraper all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
November Words
November was the ninth month in the Roman calendar — novem is "nine" in Latin — and it's stuffed full of word-worthy events. From Native American Heritage Month to Veterans Day to Thanksgiving, dig in to this bountiful harvest of timely November vocabulary.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 16–October 22, 2021
Stories about a gentle dinosaur, a cabbage-sized meteorite, and a 900-year-old sword all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 9–October 15, 2021
Stories about space rocks, an amazing dog, and a new species of water bear all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 2–October 8, 2021
Stories about zombie plants, Mercury's craters, and a real-life Star Trek all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 25–October 5, 2021
Stories about a giant penguin, a record-setting kick, and a hungry pack of wild boars all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
October Words
Grab a pumpkin-flavored treat and your favorite ghost story — it's October! The Northern Hemisphere's spookiest, coziest time of the year is also packed full of historical commemorations and fun holidays.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 11–September 17, 2021
Stories about an innovative parrot, a weird asteroid, and a very lucky cat all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 4–September 10, 2021
Stories about aggressive vultures, a festive ballet, and newborn pandas all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 28–September 3, 2021
Stories about glowing sea creatures, an unusually agile skunk, and heroic dogs all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
September Words
In the Northern Hemisphere, September is back-to-school time, with cooler weather and book-stuffed backpacks. On the other side of the globe, it's finally the start of spring. Either way, it's a perfect month for learning new vocabulary words.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 21–August 27, 2021
Stories about babbling baby bats, the Paralympics, and a picky dinosaur all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 14–August 20, 2021
Stories about a wandering woolly mammoth, a very dark national park, and a carnivorous plant all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for August 7–August 13, 2021
Stories about wandering elephants, happy rats, and baby sharks all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 31–August 6, 2021
Stories about a very old piece of wedding cake, a bacon shortage, and a 3,000-year-old plant all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
August Words
August is a month fit for a king — and it's named for one too (the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus, to be exact). Hot and sticky as it might be in parts of the Northern Hemisphere, August is magnificent, and so is this list of vocabulary words!
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 24–July 30, 2021
Stories about smart parrots, an enormous comet, and Olympic skateboarders all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 17–July 23, 2021
Stories about the Hubble Space Telescope, a lucky kangaroo, and medieval caves all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 10–July 16, 2021
Stories about synchronized fireflies, thawing permafrost, and football-sized goldfish all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for July 3–July 9, 2021
Stories about a hot dog eating contest, lifesaving trees, and tattooed mummies all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 26–July 2, 2021
Stories about a 70-year-old batgirl, a small Statue of Liberty, and a new species of human all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
July Words
Ah, July. In the northern hemisphere, it's the dog days of summer, while winter's in full swing in the southern hemisphere. This is the month for celebrating little-known holidays like Pandemonium Day and International Friendship Day, no matter where in the world you are!
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 19–June 25, 2021
Stories about a kidnapped lemur, amateur mushroom hunters, and a pistachio heist all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 12–June 18, 2021
Stories about a prize-winning Pekingese, pink snow, and a brand-new ocean all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for June 5–June 11, 2021
Stories about feral peacocks, a heroic rat, and a pizza vending machine all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
June Vocabulary Words
It's June! This is the month to celebrate Flag Day, Juneteenth, and Father's Day — and it's also the month during which we mark the longest day of the year.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 29–June 4, 2021
Stories about Covid-sniffing dogs, a microscopic cleaning crew, and new images of our galaxy all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 22–May 28, 2021
Stories about a million-dollar equation, a 12-year-old college graduate, and contraband cacti all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 15–May 21, 2021
Stories about a massive monument, fashionable chimpanzees, and a great glass elevator all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 10–April 16, 2021
Stories about lazy bears, a ketchup shortage, and a newly discovered Egyptian city all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 8–May 14, 2021
Stories about heroic honeybees, floating scarecrows, and a leopard on the lam all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for May 1–May 7, 2021
Stories about wooden forest trolls, a pregnant mummy, and a beloved ballet dancer all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for April 24–April 30, 2021
Stories about destructive beavers, a groundbreaking Academy Award winner, and worldwide vaccination efforts all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for December 26, 2020—January 1, 2021
Stories about the Nashville bombing, Brexit becoming reality, and the discovery of a 2,000-year-old snack bar all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for December 19–25, 2020
Stories about astronomical events, a major hack attack, and one of soccer's biggest records falling all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for December 12–18, 2020
Stories about good and bad pandemic news, a couple of big spending bills in Congress, and the search for a new name for Cleveland's baseball club all contributed words to this list of vocabulary from the week's top news.
This Week In Words: November 28–December 4, 2020
Stories about a more normal 2021, the discovery of "a prehistoric Sistine Chapel," and exciting news for Nintendo fans all contributed words to this week's roundup of vocabulary from the top news.
This Week In Words: November 21–27, 2020
A special Thanksgiving week edition comes to your table stuffed with words for cooking, eating, shopping, and more. Dig in to this list of timely vocabulary!
This Week In Words: November 14–20, 2020
Bad news about the virus, good news about vaccines, a brilliant meteor shower, and a car made of garbage. These subjects and more contributed words to this week's roundup of current events vocabulary.
Alex Trebek (1940–2020) Tribute List
Alex Trebek, who hosted the hit TV quiz show Jeopardy! from 1984 until this year, died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 80. Born in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, he began working in broadcasting while still in college at the University of Ottowa, reading the news and hosting a quiz show. He hosted a few other game shows before beginning the 36-year run that made him one of the most popular figures on television. Trebek won many awards, and set a world record for the most game show episodes hosted by the same person: 6,829. This vocabulary list includes words from interviews with Trebek and from his autobiography The Answer Is... Reflections on My Life.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for October 31–November 6, 2020
Stories about the election, another tropical storm, and a big win for Uber contributed word to this week's list of timely vocabulary from the week's top news stories.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for October 31–November 6, 2020
Stories about a struggle over soup, ancient female hunters, and a whale's weight training all contributed words to this week's roundup of vocabulary from the tech, entertainment, and culture worlds.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for October 24–30, 2020
Stories about water on the moon, a massive underwater mystery, and the pandemic crashing the World Series victory all contributed words to this week's list of timely vocabulary from the tech, culture, and sports worlds.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for October 24–30, 2020
Stories about the worsening pandemic, the closing days of the Presidential campaign, and big tech under scrutiny all contributed words to this week's list of vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week In Culture: October 17–23, 2020
Quibi folds, Bennu coughs up some dust, and the Flaming Lips take "Covid bubble" to a new level: these stories and more contributed words to this week's list from the culture, tech, and sports worlds.
This Week In Words: October 17–23, 2020
Stories about the Pope, President Obama, and Google all contributed words to this week's list of timely vocabulary words from the week's news.
Words From the Final 2020 Presidential Debate
The final presidential debate between President Trump and former Vice President Biden took place in Nashville, Tennessee on October 22. The event was moderated by Kristen Welker of NBC News. Here are 20 words from the debate, ten from each candidate.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for October 10–16, 2020
Stories about unrest in former Soviet republics, developments in the legal world, and early voting in a number of states all contributed timely vocabulary to this week's list of words from the news.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for October 10–16, 2020
Stories about a couple of major sports victories, some upcoming TV shows, and bee B.O. all contributed words to this week's like of vocabulary from the sports, science, and culture worlds.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for October 3–9, 2020
Stories about the VP debate, Covid-19 in the White House, and a possible reckoning for big tech all chipped in words to this week's list of timely vocabulary from the week's news.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for October 3–9, 2020
Instagram turns ten, a legend crosses over, and Fat Bear Week crowns another winner — these stories and more contributed some choice vocabulary to this week's list of words from the culture, tech, and sports worlds.
Words from the 2020 Vice Presidential Debate
The vice-presidential debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Kamala Harris took place in Salt Lake City, Utah on October 7. The event was moderated by Susan Page from USA Today. Here are 20 words from the debate, ten from each candidate.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for September 26–October 2, 2020
Stories about the presidential debate, a leaky International Space Station, and the raging California wildfires all contributed words to this week's list of vocabulary from the week's top news stories.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for September 26–October 2, 2020
How much does the universe weigh? Could there be aquatic life under the Martian surface? How many baseball games in one day is too many? These and other questions are answered by stories that contributed timely words to this week's list of vocabulary from the tech, sports, and culture worlds.
Words from the First 2020 Presidential Debate
The first of three planned presidential debates between President Trump and former Vice President Biden took place in Cleveland, Ohio on September 29. The event was moderated by Chris Wallace of Fox News. Here are 20 words from the debate, ten from each candidate.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for September 19–25, 2020
Stories about the Supreme Court vacancy, the upcoming election, and an indictment in the Breonna Taylor case all contributed words to this week's roundup of timely vocabulary from the news.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for September 19–25, 2020
Big news for electric car aficionados, big news for Brazilian board sports fans, and potentially huge news for people hoping that there's life on other planets. These stories and more provided words for this week's list of vocabulary from the tech, sports, and culture worlds.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933–2020) Tribute List
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the Supreme Court, died of pancreatic cancer on September 18 at the age of 87. Appointed by President Clinton in 1993, she became well-known as an advocate for women's equality; her dissent in the 2007 Ledbetter case is credited with inspiring the Fair Pay Act of 2009. Hailed as a brilliant legal scholar and an inspiration to millions, she earned the monicker "Notorious RBG." Just prior to her death, she said, "My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed." This list includes words from her writings, speeches, and Supreme Court decisions.
This Week In Culture: Current Events Vocab for September 12–18, 2020
Is there life on Venus? Is the inventor of the Rubik's Cube the richest man in Hungary? And will movie theaters survive the pandemic? Stories asking these questions and more contributed words to this week's list of vocabulary from the tech, sports, and culture worlds.
This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for September 12–18, 2020
Stories about West Coast fires, Gulf Coast floods, and developments on the pandemic front contributed words to this week's list of timely vocabulary from the news.
This Week In Culture: September 5–11, 2020
Stories about several new movies, the activism in the NBA, and a tween drum sensation all added words to this week's list of timely words from the culture, sports, and tech worlds.
This Week In Words: September 5–11, 2020
Stories about wildfires, the pandemic, and the risks of vaping all contributed words to this week's list of vocabulary from the news.
Featured Test Prep:
View All Test Prep Collections
American History and Government: Essential Vocabulary
Looking to brush up on American history? Master key terms and ideas by practicing the lists in this collection. Be sure...
Whether you want to brush up on biology, study space science, or prep for a physics test, this collection of science...
We've got your number! Mastering essential vocabulary is a prime factor in understanding mathematical concepts and...
Words Every Student Should KnowGrade by Grade Vocabulary for Academic Success
By analyzing student data and commonly taught texts, Vocabulary.com has compiled this collection of essential vocabulary...
The TOEFL ExamThe Test of English as a Foreign Language
Our comprehensive TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test prep collection includes a range of resources to...
State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR)
Master the terms and concepts you'll need to know for the Texas STAAR exams.
The Language of Standardized TestsMaster the Vocabulary You'll See on Test Day
Take the guesswork out of standardized tests by mastering the vocabulary you'll likely see in test directions and...
The GED: The Language of the Test
These words are likely to appear in question stems, answer options, and test directions on the GED Test. Master these...
The GED Mathematical Reasoning Test
If you're preparing for the GED Mathematical Reasoning Test, you can count on Vocabulary.com! Practice these lists of...
Set yourself up for GED success by practicing these lists of essential social studies terms. Our lists will help...
AP English Language and Composition Exam
Ensure you're prepared for the AP English Language and Composition Exam by learning the words in this collection of...
Cat got your tongue? Then take the bull by the horns and dive into this collection of common English idioms and...
Test Prep Vocabulary Lists:
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 1
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 1
Whether you're preparing for a standardized test, hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments, or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists in this collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4
The AP English Exam: Rhetorical and Literary Terms 1
ASVAB Word Knowledge
The Word Knowledge section of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a vocabulary test that assesses word meanings, synonyms, and antonyms in a multiple-choice format. Practicing this list on Vocabulary.com will expand your word knowledge and hone your test-taking skills via a variety of contexts and question types.
The SAT: Language of the Test, List 1
How can you perform well on the reading section of the SAT if you don’t fully understand the language being used in the directions and in the questions? Learn this list of 25 words that are based on our analysis of the words likely to appear in question stems, answer options, and test directions. Following our Roadmap to the SAT? Head back to see what else you should be learning this week.
The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 1
On the SAT, all of the Reading Test questions are multiple choice and are based on reading passages that may be taken from literature, science, the social sciences, or a U.S. founding document (or a text inspired by such a document). Many of the reading comprehension questions meant to assess a student’s understanding of those passages will require students to choose words that best describe the writer’s tone or point of view, words like the 25 words you see on this list. Learn them here so when you see them in an SAT answer choice, you’ll know what they mean! Following our Roadmap to the SAT? Head back to see what else you should be learning this week.
The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 1
Context is king — that’s the lesson you need to internalize as you begin preparing for the vocabulary questions on the SAT. We have identified this pool of 200 words that cut across the disciplines and lend themselves well to context-dependent interpretation. As you learn this list on Vocabulary.com, you will have to rely on context clues in order to determine each word’s meaning in particular sentences. This is the same type of thinking you will need to develop in order to succeed on the SAT! Following our Roadmap to the SAT? Head back to see what else you should be learning this week.
PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade 11)
Before you can answer a question on the PARCC English Language Arts/Literacy section, you first need to know what the question is asking. Learn this list of 70 words that we extracted from a PARCC practice test's directions, question stems, and answer options.
PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)
Before you can answer a question on the PARCC English Language Arts/Literacy section, you first need to know what the question is asking. Learn this list of 45 words that we extracted from a PARCC practice test's directions, question stems, and answer options.
Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items
Here are 68 Tier 2 words that are likely to be found on the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) ELA exams for 6th - 11th grades. These words may show up in the reading passages, but you are more likely to encounter them in the test questions and possible answers.
100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know
American Heritage Dictionaries normally feature about 70,000 entries. From that multitude, the editors have chosen 100 words that are neither obscure nor outlandish that could give middle schoolers more aplomb and aptitude in their verbal encounters. If you're not sure whether that is something you need, study this list. Words selected by the Editors of the American Heritage® Dictionaries. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
Keystone Exams: English Composition Glossary
The terms and definitions included in this list are intended to assist Pennsylvania educators an students in better understanding the Keystone Assessment Anchors and Eligible Content.
100 SAT Words Beginning with "A"
What better way to prepare for the sentence completion and passage-based questions on the SAT than to commit yourself to completing our alphabetically organized SAT lists? Find lists of SAT words organized by every letter of the alphabet here: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K & L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, and W, X, Y & Z.
30 GRE Words Beginning with "A"
Find lists of GRE words organized by the letters of the alphabet here: A, B and C, D, E and F, G and H, I, K -O, P, Q, R & S, T, U, V, and W.
TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)
To improve your fluency in English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR), learn this academic vocabulary list that includes words selected from the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) state standards.
GRE High Frequency Words
Barron's GRE 17th Edition High Freq Words
PSAT Words
Words I've encountered in practice PSAT tests.
AP English Lit exam terms
If you are gearing up to take the Advanced Placement English Literature exam, you better be able to distinguish between your elegies and your allegories! This list will help.
NAEP Test Words
Words included in the 2009 and 2011 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) tests of fourth, eighth, and twelfth grade vocabulary. Read about the test here.
100 Top "SAT" Words
Looking to build your vocabulary? Then practice this list of 100 "top words" — the kind that used to be tested on the SAT before 2016. If you're a high school student prepping for the SAT, check out Vocabulary.com's Roadmap to the SAT, which focuses on the vocabulary you'll need to ace today's SAT test.
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
The top 1,000 vocabulary words have been carefully chosen to represent difficult but common words that appear in everyday academic and business writing. These words are also the most likely to appear on the SAT, ACT, GRE, and ToEFL. To create this list, we started with the words that give our users the most trouble and then ranked them by how frequently they appear in our corpus of billions of words from edited sources. If you only have time to study one list of words, this is the list.
Media Literacy
The word list captures essential words in "Media Literacy" from Curriculum 21. As you watch these videos, think in terms of the use of images, music, spoken word and the author's decisions in crafting these texts. Who is the intended audience? How do the choices made by the writer/author impact the intended audiences? Amazing is Unity Science and music Our place in the cosmos
6th Grade Language Arts Vocab from Common Core State Standards
In grades 6 – 8, students are ready for new levels of intellectual challenge. If they have followed the Common Core Curriculum Maps up to this point, they should have a strong background in mythology, folktales, and fables from around the world; classic and contemporary fiction and poetry; and literary nonfiction related to historical and select scientific topics. They should be able to write a short paper in which they articulate a central idea and support it with examples from texts. www.commoncore.org Curriculum Map for 6th Grade
GED: The Language of the Test, List 4
These words are likely to appear in question stems, answer options, and test directions on the GED Test. Master these important terms to ensure you understand the language of the test.
GED: The Language of the Test, List 3
These words are likely to appear in question stems, answer options, and test directions on the GED Test. Master these important terms to ensure you understand the language of the test.
GED: The Language of the Test, List 2
These words are likely to appear in question stems, answer options, and test directions on the GED Test. Master these important terms to ensure you understand the language of the test.
GED: The Language of the Test, List 1
These words are likely to appear in question stems, answer options, and test directions on the GED Test. Master these important terms to ensure you understand the language of the test.
The AP English Exam: Rhetorical and Literary Terms 4
The AP English Exam: Rhetorical and Literary Terms 3
The AP English Exam: Rhetorical and Literary Terms 2
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 10
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 9
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 8
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 7
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 6
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 5
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 4
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 3
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 2
Whether you're hoping to improve your comprehension of reading assignments or simply looking to increase your word knowledge, our lists of essential, high-frequency words will put you on the path to vocabulary success. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 10
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 9
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 8
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 7
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 6
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 5
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 4
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 3
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 1
GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 2
The ACT Reading Test: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 8
On the ACT Reading Test, you'll encounter questions that ask you to determine the meanings of common words in context. We've identified 200 high-frequency, multiple-meaning words of the sort that you'll see on the exam. As you practice this list, you'll have to rely on context clues in order to determine each word’s meaning in a particular sentence. Be careful! Several of a word's meanings might show up as answer choices — but only one answer will capture the meaning of the word in the context of the sentence.