Word Meanings (Page 6)
Explore commonly searched words with detailed definitions, examples, and pronunciation guides
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Paradigm
/ˈpærədaɪm/ · noun
A model, pattern, or typical example of something; a framework that shapes how people understand a subject.
Paradox
/ˈpærədɒks/ · noun
A seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated may prove to be well-founded or true.
Parsimonious
/ˌpɑːsɪˈməʊniəs/ · adjective
Unwilling to spend money or use resources; excessively frugal or stingy.
Perfunctory
/pəˈfʌŋ(k)t(ə)ri/ · adjective
Carried out with minimal effort or interest; done merely as a routine duty.
Perpetuate
/pəˈpɛtʃueɪt/ · verb
To make something continue indefinitely; to preserve a harmful situation or idea.
Perspicacious
/ˌpɜːspɪˈkeɪʃəs/ · adjective
Having keen insight, discernment, or understanding; mentally sharp and perceptive.
Perspicuous
/pərˈspɪkjuəs/ · adjective
Clearly expressed and easily understood; transparent in meaning.
Peruse
/pəˈruːz/ · verb
To read or examine something carefully; to look through attentively.
Placate
/pləˈkeɪt/ · verb
To make someone less angry or hostile; to appease or pacify.
Placid
/ˈplæsɪd/ · adjective
Calm and peaceful, with little movement or disturbance.
Poignant
/ˈpɔɪnjənt/ · adjective
Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret; sharply affecting or moving.
Pragmatic
/præɡˈmætɪk/ · adjective
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
Pragmatism
/ˈpræɡmətɪz(ə)m/ · noun
A practical approach to problems and affairs; a way of thinking that evaluates ideas by their results and usefulness.
Precarious
/prɪˈkɛəriəs/ · adjective
Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse; uncertain or dependent on chance.
Probity
/ˈprəʊbɪti/ · noun
Strong moral principles; integrity and honesty in conduct.
Profligate
/ˈprɒflɪɡət/ · adjective
Recklessly extravagant or wasteful, especially with money or resources; morally dissolute.
Profound
/prəˈfaʊnd/ · adjective
Very great or intense; having deep insight or understanding; extending far below the surface.
Prudent
/ˈpruːd(ə)nt/ · adjective
Acting with or showing care and thought for the future; wise and cautious in practical affairs.
Quintessential
/ˌkwɪntɪˈsɛnʃəl/ · adjective
Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
Quixotic
/kwɪkˈsɒtɪk/ · adjective
Exceedingly idealistic, unrealistic, and impractical in pursuit of noble goals.
Rationale
/ˌræʃəˈnɑːl/ · noun
A set of reasons or a logical basis for a course of action, belief, or decision.