Definitions & Meanings - English Dictionary

sop|py / s'ɒpi / (soppier soppiest) [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as soppy , you mean that they are foolishly sentimental. (BRIT INFORMAL) He's constantly on the phone to his girlfriend being soppy... = slushy

so|pra|no / səpr'ɑːnoʊ, -pr'æn- / (sopranos) [N-COUNT] A soprano is a woman, girl, or boy with a high singing voice. She was the main soprano at the Bolshoi theatre. ...a pretty girl with a sweet soprano voice.

sor|bet / s'ɔː r beɪ, AM -bɪt / (sorbets) [N-MASS] Sorbet is a frozen dessert made with fruit juice, sugar, and water. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use sherbet ) ...a light lemon sorbet.

sor|cer|er / s'ɔː r sərə r / (sorcerers) [N-COUNT] In fairy stories, a sorcerer is a person who performs magic by using the power of evil spirits. = wizard

sor|cer|ess / s'ɔː r sərɪs / (sorceresses) [N-COUNT] In fairy stories, a sorceress is a woman who performs magic by using the power of evil spirits. = witch

sor|cery / s'ɔː r səri / [N-UNCOUNT] Sorcery is magic performed by using the power of evil spirits. = witchcraft

sor|did / s'ɔː r dɪd / 1 [ADJ] If you describe someone's behaviour as sordid , you mean that it is immoral or dishonest. I don't want to hear the sordid details of your relationship with Sandra... 2 [ADJ] If you describe a place as sordid , you mean that it is dirty, unpleasant, or depressing. ...the attic windows of their sordid little rooms. = seedy

sore / s'ɔː r / (sorer sorest sores) 1 [ADJ] If part of your body is sore , it causes you pain and discomfort. It's years since I've had a sore throat like I did last night... My chest is still sore from the surgery. ● soreness [N-UNCOUNT] The soreness lasted for about six weeks. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ at/about n/-ing If you are sore about something, you are angry and upset about it. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The result is that they are now all feeling very sore at you... = annoyed 3 [N-COUNT] A sore is a painful place on the body where the skin is infected. see also cold sore 4 [PHRASE] oft PHR with/for/between n If something is a sore point with someone, it is likely to make them angry or embarrassed if you try to discuss it. The continuing presence of American troops on Korean soil remains a very sore point with these students. 5 to stick out like a sore thumb: see thumb cold sore (cold sores) [N-COUNT] Cold sores are ...

sore|ly / s'ɔː r li / [ADV] ADV adj/prep, ADV before v Sorely is used to emphasize that a feeling such as disappointment or need is very strong. I for one was sorely disappointed. ...the potential to earn sorely needed money for Britain from overseas orders... He will be sorely missed.

sor|ghum / s'ɔː r gəm / [N-UNCOUNT] Sorghum is a type of corn that is grown in warm countries. Its grain can be made into flour or syrup.

so|ror|ity / sɒr'ɔːrɪti / (sororities) [N-COUNT] In the United States, a sorority is a society of female university or college students.

sor|rel / s'ɒrəl, AM s'ɔːr- / [N-UNCOUNT] Sorrel is a plant whose leaves have a bitter taste and are sometimes used in salads and sauces.

sor|row / s'ɒroʊ / [N-UNCOUNT] Sorrow is a feeling of deep sadness or regret. It was a time of great sorrow... Words cannot express my sorrow.

sor|row|ful / s'ɒroʊfʊl / [ADJ] Sorrowful means very sad. (LITERARY) His father's face looked suddenly soft and sorrowful...

sor|rows / s'ɒroʊz / [N-PLURAL] Sorrows are events or situations that cause deep sadness. ...the joys and sorrows of everyday living. to drown one's sorrows: see drown

♦♦ sor|ry / s'ɒri / (sorrier sorriest) 1 [CONVENTION] You say ` Sorry ' or ` I'm sorry ' as a way of apologizing to someone for something that you have done which has upset them or caused them difficulties, or when you bump into them accidentally. `We're all talking at the same time.'--`Yeah. Sorry.'... Sorry I took so long... Sorry for barging in like this... I'm really sorry if I said anything wrong... I'm sorry to call so late, but I need a favour... The next morning she came into my room and said she was sorry. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, usu ADJ about n, ADJ that/to-inf If you are sorry about a situation, you feel regret, sadness, or disappointment about it. She was very sorry about all the trouble she'd caused... I'm sorry about what's happened... I'm sorry he's gone... He was sorry to see them go. 3 [CONVENTION] You use I'm sorry or sorry as an introduction when you are telling a p...

♦♦♦ sort / s'ɔː r t / (sorts sorting sorted) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp, usu N of n If you talk about a particular sort of something, you are talking about a class of things that have particular features in common and that belong to a larger group of related things. What sort of school did you go to?... There are so many different sorts of mushrooms available these days... He had a nice, serious sort of smile... That's just the sort of abuse that he will be investigating... Eddie was playing a game of some sort... = type, kind 2 [N-SING] with supp You describe someone as a particular sort when you are describing their character. He seemed to be just the right sort for the job... She was a very vigorous sort of person... What sort of men were they? = type, kind 3 [VERB] be V-ed into n, V through n, V n If you sort things, you separate them into different classes, groups, or places, for example so that you can do different things with them...

sor|tie / s'ɔː r ti / (sorties) 1 [N-COUNT] A sortie is a brief trip away from your home base, especially a trip to an unfamiliar place. (FORMAL) From here we plan several sorties into the countryside on foot. = foray 2 [N-COUNT] If a military force makes a sortie , it leaves its own position and goes briefly into enemy territory to make an attack. (FORMAL) His men made a sortie to Guazatan and took a prisoner... = raid

sort|ing of|fice (sorting offices) [N-COUNT] A sorting office is a place where letters and parcels that have been posted are taken and sorted according to where they are being sent. (BRIT)

sou|bri|quet / s'oʊbrɪkeɪ / (soubriquets) see sobriquet

sought / s'ɔːt / Sought is the past tense and past participle of seek .

♦ soul / s'oʊl / (souls) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp Your soul is the part of you that consists of your mind, character, thoughts, and feelings. Many people believe that your soul continues existing after your body is dead. She went to pray for the soul of her late husband... `I will put my heart and soul into the job,' he promises. 2 [N-COUNT] adj N You can refer to someone as a particular kind of soul when you are describing their character or condition. He's a jolly soul... 3 [N-SING] with brd-neg You use soul in negative statements like not a soul to mean nobody at all. I've never harmed a soul in my life... There was not a soul there. 4 [N-UNCOUNT] Soul or soul music is a type of pop music performed mainly by black American musicians. It developed from gospel and blues music and often expresses deep emotions. ...American soul singer Anita Baker. 5 to bare one's soul: see bare body and soul: see body the life and ...

soul|ful / s'oʊlfʊl / [ADJ] Something that is soulful expresses deep feelings, especially sadness or love. ...his great, soulful, brown eyes. ...soulful music. ≠ soulless ● soulfully [ADV] She gazed at him soulfully.

soul|less / s'oʊlləs / [ADJ] If you describe a thing or person as soulless , you mean that they lack human qualities and the ability to feel or produce deep feelings. ...a clean and soulless hotel. ...a grey and soulless existence...

sound bar|ri|er [N-SING] usu the N If an aircraft breaks the sound barrier , it reaches a speed that is faster than the speed of sound. sound ef|fect (sound effects) [N-COUNT] usu pl Sound effects are the sounds that are created artificially to make a play more realistic, especially a radio play. sound en|gi|neer (sound engineers) [N-COUNT] A sound engineer is a person who works in a recording studio or for a radio or television company, and whose job it is to alter and balance the levels of different sounds as they are recorded. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use sound mixer ) sound mix|er (sound mixers) [N-COUNT] A sound mixer is a person who works in a recording studio or for a radio or television company, and whose job it is to alter and balance the levels of different sounds as they are recorded. = sound engineer sound off [PHRASAL VERB] V P about/on n, also V P If someone sounds off , they express their opinions strongly and rather rudely without being asked. (...

sound|ing / s'aʊndɪŋ / (soundings) 1 [N-SING] the N of n The sounding of a bell or a horn is the act of causing it to make a sound. There were 15 minutes between the first air raid alert and the sounding of the all-clear signal. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl If you take soundings , you try to find out people's opinions on a subject. She will take soundings of the people's wishes before deciding on a course of action. sound|ing board (sounding boards) [N-COUNT] If you use someone as a sounding board , you discuss your ideas with them in order to get another opinion. He needed a sounding board rather than thinking alone.

sound|less / s'aʊndləs / [ADJ] Something that is soundless does not make a sound. (LITERARY) My bare feet were soundless over the carpet. = silent ● soundlessly [ADV] Joe's lips moved soundlessly.

sound|ly / s'aʊndli / 1 [ADV] ADV -ed If someone is soundly defeated or beaten, they are severely defeated or beaten. Duke was soundly defeated in this month's Louisiana governor's race. 2 [ADV] ADV -ed If a decision, opinion, or statement is soundly based, there are sensible or reliable reasons behind it. Changes must be soundly based in economic reality. 3 [ADV] ADV after v, ADV adj If you sleep soundly , you sleep deeply and do not wake during your sleep. How can he sleep soundly at night?... She was too soundly asleep to hear Stefano's return. = deeply

sound|proof / s'aʊndpruːf / (soundproofs soundproofing soundproofed) also sound-proof 1 [ADJ] A soundproof room, door, or window is designed to prevent all sound from getting in or out. The studio isn't soundproof. 2 [VERB] V n If you soundproof a room, you line it with special materials to stop all sound from getting in or out. We've soundproofed our home studio...

sound|track / s'aʊndtræk / (soundtracks) also sound track [N-COUNT] The soundtrack of a film is its sound, speech, and music. It is used especially to refer to the music.

soup / s'uːp / (soups) [N-MASS] usu supp N Soup is liquid food made by boiling meat, fish, or vegetables in water. ...home-made chicken soup. soup kitch|en (soup kitchens) also soup-kitchen [N-COUNT] A soup kitchen is a place where homeless people or very poor people are provided with free food. soup plate (soup plates) [N-COUNT] A soup plate is a deep plate with a wide edge in which soup is served. soup spoon (soup spoons) [N-COUNT] A soup spoon is a spoon used for eating soup. The bowl-like part at the end of it is round.

soupy / s'uːpi / [ADJ] Soupy things are like soup or look like soup. ...swirling soupy water...

sour / s'aʊ'ə r / (sours souring soured) 1 [ADJ] Something that is sour has a sharp, unpleasant taste like the taste of a lemon. The stewed apple was sour even with honey. see also sweet and sour 2 [ADJ] Sour milk is milk that has an unpleasant taste because it is no longer fresh. ≠ fresh 3 [ADJ] Someone who is sour is bad-tempered and unfriendly. She made a sour face in his direction... ● sourly [ADV] ADV with v `Leave my mother out of it,' he said sourly. 4 [ADJ] If a situation or relationship turns sour or goes sour , it stops being enjoyable or satisfactory. Even the European dream is beginning to turn sour... Their songs are filled with tales of love gone sour. 5 [VERB] V n, V If a friendship, situation, or attitude sours or if something sours it, it becomes less friendly, enjoyable, or hopeful. If anything sours the relationship, it is likely to be real differences in their world-views... Her mood soured a littl...

♦♦ source / s'ɔː r s / (sources sourcing sourced) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n The source of something is the person, place, or thing which you get it from. Renewable sources of energy must be used where practical... Tourism, which is a major source of income for the city, may be seriously affected. 2 [VERB] V n, V n In business, if a person or firm sources a product or a raw material, they find someone who will supply it. (BUSINESS) Together they travel the world, sourcing clothes for the small, privately owned company... About 60 per cent of an average car is sourced from outside of the manufacturer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A source is a person or book that provides information for a news story or for a piece of research. Military sources say the boat was heading south at high speed... 4 [N-COUNT] N of n The source of a difficulty is its cause. This gave me a clue as to the source of the problem. = cause 5 [N-COUNT] usu sing The source ...

♦♦♦ south / s'aʊθ / also South 1 [N-UNCOUNT] also the N The south is the direction which is on your right when you are looking towards the direction where the sun rises. The town lies ten miles to the south of here... All around him, from east to west, north to south, the stars glittered in the heavens. 2 [N-SING] usu the N, oft N of n The south of a place, country, or region is the part which is in the south. ...holidays in the south of France. 3 [ADV] ADV after v If you go south , you travel towards the south. We did an extremely fast U-turn and shot south up the Boulevard St. Michel... He went south to climb Taishan, a mountain sacred to the Chinese. 4 [ADV] ADV of n Something that is south of a place is positioned to the south of it. They now own and operate a farm 50 miles south of Rochester... I was living in a house just south of Market Street. 5 [ADJ] ADJ n The south edge, corner, or part of a place or country is the part whi...

south|bound / s'aʊθbaʊnd / [ADJ] usu ADJ n Southbound roads or vehicles lead or are travelling towards the south. ...the southbound train from the Scottish Highlands. ...the southbound carriageway of the M61.

south|er|ly / s'ʌðə r li / 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A southerly point, area, or direction is to the south or towards the south. We set off in a southerly direction. ...the most southerly areas of Zimbabwe and Mozambique. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A southerly wind is a wind that blows from the south.

♦♦ south|ern / s'ʌðə r n / [ADJ] ADJ n Southern means in or from the south of a region, state, or country. The Everglades National Park stretches across the southern tip of Florida. ...a place where you can sample southern cuisine.

south|ern|er / s'ʌðə r nə r / (southerners) [N-COUNT] A southerner is a person who was born in or lives in the south of a country. Bob Wilson is a Southerner, from Texas... Southerners smoke less and drink less than those in other parts of the country.

south|ern|most / s'ʌðə r nmoʊst / [ADJ] usu ADJ n The southernmost part of an area or the southernmost place is the one that is farthest towards the south. The ancient province of Satsuma lies in the southernmost part of the Japanese island of Kyushu. ...Aswan, Egypt's southernmost city.

south|ward / s'aʊθwə r d / also southwards [ADV] usu ADV after v, also n ADV Southward or southwards means towards the south. They drove southward... It was a visit that took him to Mogadishu and southwards to Kismayo. [ADJ] Southward is also an adjective. Instead of her normal southward course towards Alexandria and home, she headed west.

sou|venir / s'uːvən'ɪə r , AM -nɪr / (souvenirs) [N-COUNT] oft N of n A souvenir is something which you buy or keep to remind you of a holiday, place, or event. ...a souvenir of the summer of 1992.

sov|er|eign / s'ɒvrɪn / (sovereigns) 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A sovereign state or country is independent and not under the authority of any other country. The Russian Federation declared itself to be a sovereign republic. = autonomous 2 [ADJ] Sovereign is used to describe the person or institution that has the highest power in a country. Sovereign power will continue to lie with the Supreme People's Assembly. 3 [N-COUNT] A sovereign is a king, queen, or other royal ruler of a country. In March 1889, she became the first British sovereign to set foot on Spanish soil. = monarch

sov|er|eign|ty / s'ɒvrɪnti / [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl Sovereignty is the power that a country has to govern itself or another country or state. Britain's concern to protect national sovereignty is far from new. = autonomy

sow 1 / s'oʊ / (sow sows sowing sowed sown) VERB USES 1 [VERB] V n, be V-ed with n If you sow seeds or sow an area of land with seeds, you plant the seeds in the ground. Sow the seed in a warm place in February/March... Yesterday the field opposite was sown with maize. 2 [VERB] V n If someone sows an undesirable feeling or situation, they cause it to begin and develop. He cleverly sowed doubts into the minds of his rivals... 3 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If one thing sows the seeds of another, it starts the process which leads eventually to the other thing. Rich industrialised countries have sown the seeds of global warming. sow 2 / s'aʊ / (sow sows) NOUN USE [N-COUNT] A sow is an adult female pig.

sown / s'oʊn / Sown is the past participle of sow .

soy / s'ɔɪ / [N-UNCOUNT] usu N n Soy flour, butter, or other food is made from soybeans. (AM; in BRIT, use soya ) soy sauce / s'ɔɪ s'ɔːs / also soya sauce [N-UNCOUNT] Soy sauce is a dark brown liquid made from soya beans and used as a flavouring, especially in Chinese cooking.

soya / s'ɔɪə / [N-UNCOUNT] usu N n Soya flour, butter, or other food is made from soya beans. (BRIT; in AM, use soy ) soya bean (soya beans) [N-COUNT] Soya beans are beans that can be eaten or used to make flour, oil, or soy sauce. (BRIT; in AM, use soybeans )

soy|bean / s'ɔɪbiːn / (soybeans) also soy bean [N-COUNT] Soybeans are the same as soya beans . (AM)

spa / sp'ɑː / (spas) 1 [N-COUNT] A spa is a place where water with minerals in it comes out of the ground. People drink the water or go in it in order to improve their health. ...Fiuggi, a spa town famous for its water. 2 [N-COUNT] A health spa is a kind of hotel where people go to do exercise and have special treatments in order to improve their health.

♦♦ space / sp'eɪs / (spaces spacing spaced) 1 [N-VAR] You use space to refer to an area that is empty or available. The area can be any size. For example, you can refer to a large area outside as a large open space or to a small area between two objects as a small space . Under the plan, bits of open space-fields, golf-course borders and small parks-will be preserved. ...cutting down yet more trees to make space for houses... I had plenty of space to write and sew... The space underneath could be used as a storage area... List in the spaces below the specific changes you have made. 2 [N-VAR] usu supp N A particular kind of space is the area that is available for a particular activity or for putting a particular kind of thing in. ...the high cost of office space... Finding a parking space in the summer months is still a virtual impossibility... 3 [N-UNCOUNT] oft n of N If a place gives a feeling of space , it gives an impression of being large a...

space|craft / sp'eɪskrɑːft, -kræft / (spacecraft) [N-COUNT] A spacecraft is a rocket or other vehicle that can travel in space.

space|man / sp'eɪsmæn / (spacemen) [N-COUNT] A spaceman is a male astronaut; used mainly by children. = astronaut

space|ship / sp'eɪsʃɪp / (spaceships) [N-COUNT] A spaceship is a spacecraft that carries people through space.

spacey / sp'eɪsi / (spacier spaciest) also spacy [ADJ] You can use spacey to describe things, especially music, which seem strange, especially because they are very modern or like things in a dream. (INFORMAL) ...brilliant, spacey guitar sounds.

spac|ing / sp'eɪsɪŋ / [N-UNCOUNT] Spacing refers to the way that typing or printing is arranged on a page, especially in relation to the amount of space that is left between words or lines. Please type or write clearly in double spacing on one side of A4 paper only. see also space

spa|cious / sp'eɪʃəs / [ADJ] usu ADJ n A spacious room or other place is large in size or area, so that you can move around freely in it. The house has a spacious kitchen and dining area. = roomy

spacy / sp'eɪsi / see spacey

spade / sp'eɪd / (spades) 1 [N-COUNT] A spade is a tool used for digging, with a flat metal blade and a long handle. ... a garden spade... The girls happily played in the sand with buckets and spades. 2 [N-UNCOUNT-COLL] Spades is one of the four suits in a pack of playing cards. Each card in the suit is marked with one or more black symbols: ♠. ...the ace of spades. [N-COUNT] A spade is a playing card of this suit. 3 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that someone calls a spade a spade , you mean that they speak clearly and directly about things, even embarrassing or unpleasant things. I'm not at all secretive, and I'm pretty good at calling a spade a spade.

spade|work / sp'eɪdwɜː r k / [N-SING] usu the N The spadework is the uninteresting work that has to be done as preparation before you can start a project or activity. It is now that the spadework has to be done to lay firm foundations for later success.

spa|ghet|ti / spəg'eti / [N-UNCOUNT] Spaghetti is a type of pasta. It looks like long pieces of string and is usually served with a sauce. spa|ghet|ti west|ern (spaghetti westerns) [N-COUNT] A spaghetti western is a film made in Europe, usually by an Italian director, about life in the American Wild West.

spake / sp'eɪk / Spake is the very old-fashioned form of the past tense of speak .

span / sp'æn / (spans spanning spanned) 1 [N-COUNT] usu supp N A span is the period of time between two dates or events during which something exists, functions, or happens. The batteries had a life span of six hours... Gradually the time span between sessions will increase. 2 [N-COUNT] usu supp N Your concentration span or your attention span is the length of time you are able to concentrate on something or be interested in it. His ability to absorb information was astonishing, but his concentration span was short... 3 [VERB] no passive, V n, V n If something spans a long period of time, it lasts throughout that period of time or relates to that whole period of time. His professional career spanned 16 years... The film, spanning almost a quarter-century, tells the story of Henry Hill... 4 [VERB] no passive, V n If something spans a range of things, all those things are included in it. Bernstein's compositions spanned all aspects of music...

span|gle / sp'æŋg ə l / (spangles) [N-COUNT] usu pl Spangles are small pieces of shiny metal or plastic which are used to decorate clothing or hair. ...robes that glittered with spangles.

span|gled / sp'æŋg ə ld / [ADJ] Something that is spangled is covered with small shiny objects. ...spangled, backless dresses.

span|gly / sp'æŋgli / [ADJ] Spangly clothes are decorated with a lot of small shiny objects. He certainly liked spangly jackets.

span|iel / sp'ænjəl / (spaniels) [N-COUNT] A spaniel is a type of dog with long ears that hang down. cock|er span|iel / k'ɒkə r sp'ænjəl / (cocker spaniels) [N-COUNT] A cocker spaniel is a breed of small dog with silky hair and long ears.

spank / sp'æŋk / (spanks spanking spanked) [VERB] V n If someone spanks a child, they punish them by hitting them on the bottom several times with their hand. When I used to do that when I was a kid, my mom would spank me.

spank|ing / sp'æŋkɪŋ / (spankings) 1 [N-COUNT] If someone gives a child a spanking , they punish them by hitting them on the bottom several times with their hand. Andrea gave her son a sound spanking. 2 [ADV] ADV adj If you describe something as spanking new, spanking clean, or spanking white, you mean that it is very new, very clean, or very white. (INFORMAL) ...a spanking new Mercedes...

span|ner / sp'ænə r / (spanners) 1 [N-COUNT] A spanner is a metal tool whose end fits round a nut so that you can turn it to loosen or tighten it. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use wrench , monkey wrench ) 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If someone throws a spanner in the works , they prevent something happening smoothly in the way that it was planned, by causing a problem or difficulty. (BRIT; in AM, use throw a wrench , throw a monkey wrench ) A bad result is sure to throw a spanner in the works.

spar / sp'ɑː r / (spars sparring sparred) 1 [V-RECIP] V with n, pl-n V If you spar with someone, you box using fairly gentle blows instead of hitting your opponent hard, either when you are training or when you want to test how quickly your opponent reacts. With protective gear on you can spar with a partner... They sparred for a moment, on the brink of a full fight. 2 [V-RECIP] V with n, pl-n V If you spar with someone, you argue with them but not in an aggressive or serious way. Over the years he sparred with his friend Jesse Jackson over political tactics... They had always gotten along, even when they sparred.

♦ spare / sp'eə r / (spares sparing spared) 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use spare to describe something that is the same as things that you are already using, but that you do not need yet and are keeping ready in case another one is needed. Don't forget to take a few spare batteries... He could have taken a spare key... The wagons carried spare ammunition. [N-COUNT] Spare is also a noun. Give me the trunk key and I'll get the spare. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use spare to describe something that is not being used by anyone, and is therefore available for someone to use. The spare bedroom is on the second floor... There was hardly a spare inch of space to be found. 3 [VERB] only to-inf, V, V If you have something such as time, money, or space to spare , you have some extra time, money, or space that you have not used or which you do not need. You got here with ninety seconds to spare... It's not as if he has money to spare... 4 [VERB] V ...

spar|ing / sp'eərɪŋ / [ADJ] Someone who is sparing with something uses it or gives it only in very small quantities. Her sparing use of make-up only seemed to enhance her classically beautiful features... ● sparingly [ADV] ADV after v Medication is used sparingly...

♦ spark / sp'ɑː r k / (sparks sparking sparked) 1 [N-COUNT] A spark is a tiny bright piece of burning material that flies up from something that is burning. The fire gradually got bigger and bigger. Sparks flew off in all directions. 2 [N-COUNT] A spark is a flash of light caused by electricity. It often makes a loud sound. He passed an electric spark through a mixture of gases. 3 [VERB] V, V prep If something sparks , sparks of fire or light come from it. The wires were sparking above me... I stared into the flames of the fire as it sparked to life. 4 [VERB] V n If a burning object or electricity sparks a fire, it causes a fire. A dropped cigarette may have sparked the fire. = start 5 [N-COUNT] N of n A spark of a quality or feeling, especially a desirable one, is a small but noticeable amount of it. His music lacked that vital spark of imagination... 6 [VERB] V n, V-ed If one thing sparks another, the first thing causes the secon...

spar|kle / sp'ɑː r k ə l / (sparkles sparkling sparkled) 1 [VERB] V, V, V-ing If something sparkles , it is clear and bright and shines with a lot of very small points of light. The jewels on her fingers sparkled... His bright eyes sparkled. ...the sparkling blue waters of the ocean. = glitter [N-UNCOUNT] Sparkle is also a noun. ...the sparkle of coloured glass. 2 [N-COUNT] Sparkles are small points of light caused by light reflecting off a clear bright surface. ...sparkles of light... There was a sparkle in her eye that could not be hidden. 3 [VERB] V Someone who sparkles is lively, intelligent, and witty. She sparkles, and has as much zest as a person half her age... [N-UNCOUNT] Sparkle is also a noun. There was little sparkle in their performance. ● sparkling [ADJ] He is sparkling and versatile in front of the camera. 4 see also sparkling

spar|kler / sp'ɑː r klə r / (sparklers) [N-COUNT] A sparkler is a small firework that you can hold as it burns. It looks like a piece of thick wire and burns with a lot of small bright sparks.

spar|kling / sp'ɑː r klɪŋ / 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Sparkling drinks are slightly fizzy. ...a glass of sparkling wine. ...a new lightly sparkling drink. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If a company is described as having sparkling figures or sparkling results, it has performed very well and made a lot of money. (JOURNALISM) Top retailer Marks & Spencer has romped in with another set of sparkling results. 3 see also sparkle

spar|kly / sp'ɑː r kli / [ADJ] Sparkly things sparkle. (INFORMAL) ...a sparkly toy necklace... Her eyes were sparkly.

sparky / sp'ɑː r ki / (sparkier sparkiest) [ADJ] Sparky people or events are lively and entertaining. (BRIT INFORMAL) She's a terrific, sparky girl... = lively

spar|ring part|ner (sparring partners) 1 [N-COUNT] A boxer's sparring partner is another boxer who he or she fights regularly in training. 2 [N-COUNT] Your sparring partner is a person with whom you regularly have friendly arguments.

spar|row / sp'æroʊ / (sparrows) [N-COUNT] A sparrow is a small brown bird that is very common in Britain.

sparse / sp'ɑː r s / (sparser sparsest) [ADJ] Something that is sparse is small in number or amount and spread out over an area. Many slopes are rock fields with sparse vegetation... Traffic was sparse on the highway. ● sparsely [ADV] usu ADV -ed ...the sparsely populated interior region, where there are few roads.

spar|tan / sp'ɑː r t ə n / [ADJ] A spartan lifestyle or existence is very simple or strict, with no luxuries. Their spartan lifestyle prohibits a fridge or a phone... = austere ≠ luxurious

spasm / sp'æzəm / (spasms) 1 [N-VAR] oft into N A spasm is a sudden tightening of your muscles, which you cannot control. A muscular spasm in the coronary artery can cause a heart attack... A lack of magnesium causes muscles to go into spasm. = convulsion 2 [N-COUNT] usu N of n A spasm is a sudden strong pain or unpleasant emotion which lasts for a short period of time. (WRITTEN) A spasm of pain brought his thoughts back to the present...

spas|mod|ic / spæzm'ɒdɪk / [ADJ] Something that is spasmodic happens suddenly, for short periods of time, and at irregular intervals. He managed to stifle the spasmodic sobs of panic rising in his throat... = intermittent

spas|tic / sp'æstɪk / (spastics) [ADJ] Someone who is spastic is born with a disability which makes it difficult for them to control their muscles, especially in their arms and legs. This word could cause offence, and most people now refer to someone with this disability as having cerebral palsy . [N-COUNT] A spastic is someone who is spastic.

spat / sp'æt / (spats) 1 Spat is the past tense and past participle of spit . 2 [N-COUNT] A spat between people, countries, or organizations is a disagreement between them. ...a spat between America and Germany over interest rates and currencies.

spate / sp'eɪt / (spates) [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu N of n A spate of things, especially unpleasant things, is a large number of them that happen or appear within a short period of time. ...the recent spate of attacks on horses. = series

spa|tial / sp'eɪʃ ə l / 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Spatial is used to describe things relating to areas. ...the spatial distribution of black employment and population in South Africa. ...spatial constraints. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Your spatial ability is your ability to see and understand the relationships between shapes, spaces, and areas. His manual dexterity and fine spatial skills were wasted on routine tasks. ...spatial awareness.

spat|ter / sp'ætə r / (spatters spattering spattered) [VERB] V prep, V n prep, V n If a liquid spatters a surface or you spatter a liquid over a surface, drops of the liquid fall on an area of the surface. He stared at the rain spattering on the glass... Gently turn the fish, being careful not to spatter any hot butter on yourself... Blood spattered the dark concrete... = splatter

spatu|la / sp'ætʃʊlə / (spatulas) [N-COUNT] A spatula is an object like a knife with a wide, flat blade. Spatulas are used in cooking. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing over the top with a spatula.

spawn / sp'ɔːn / (spawns spawning spawned) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] usu n N Spawn is a soft, jelly-like substance containing the eggs of fish, or of animals such as frogs. ...her passion for collecting frog spawn. 2 [VERB] V When fish or animals such as frogs spawn , they lay their eggs. ...fish species like salmon and trout which go upstream, spawn and then die... 3 [VERB] V n If something spawns something else, it causes it to happen or to be created. (LITERARY) Tyndall's inspired work spawned a whole new branch of science...

spay / sp'eɪ / (spays spaying spayed) [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed When a female animal is spayed , it has its ovaries removed so that it cannot become pregnant. All bitches should be spayed unless being used for breeding. = neuter, sterilize

♦♦♦ speak / sp'iːk / (speaks speaking spoke spoken) 1 [VERB] V, V to/with n, V to/with n, V of/about n, V n When you speak , you use your voice in order to say something. He tried to speak, but for once, his voice had left him... I rang the hotel and spoke to Louie... She says she must speak with you at once... She cried when she spoke of Oliver. ...as I spoke these idiotic words. ● spoken [ADJ] ADJ n ...a marked decline in the standards of written and spoken English in Britain. 2 [VERB] V to n, V, V of n When someone speaks to a group of people, they make a speech. When speaking to the seminar Mr Franklin spoke of his experience, gained on a recent visit to Trinidad... He's determined to speak at the Democratic Convention... The President spoke of the need for territorial compromise. 3 [VERB] V for n, V for n If you speak for a group of people, you make their views and demands known, or represent them. He said it was the job of t...

speak|easy / sp'iːkiːzi / (speakeasies) [N-COUNT] A speakeasy was a place where people could buy alcoholic drinks illegally in the United States between 1920 and 1933, when alcohol was forbidden.

♦ speak|er / sp'iːkə r / (speakers) 1 [N-COUNT] A speaker at a meeting, conference, or other gathering is a person who is making a speech or giving a talk. Among the speakers at the gathering was Treasury Secretary Nicholas Brady... He was not a good speaker. 2 [N-COUNT] n N, N of n A speaker of a particular language is a person who speaks it, especially one who speaks it as their first language. ...in the Ukraine, where a fifth of the population are Russian speakers... The Department has a growing section which teaches English to speakers of other languages. see also native speaker 3 [N-PROPER; N-VOC] Mr/Madam N In the parliament or legislature of many countries, the Speaker is the person who is in charge of meetings. ...the Speaker of the Polish Parliament... Mr. Speaker, our message to the president is simple. 4 [N-COUNT] usu the N A speaker is a person who is speaking. From a simple gesture or the speaker's tone of voice, the Ja...

speak|ing / sp'iːkɪŋ / 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft supp N Speaking is the activity of giving speeches and talks. His work schedule still includes speaking engagements and other public appearances. 2 [PREP-PHRASE] You can say ` speaking as a parent' or ` speaking as a teacher', for example, to indicate that the opinion you are giving is based on your experience as a parent or as a teacher. Well, speaking as a journalist I'm dismayed by the amount of pressure there is for pictures of combat. 3 [PREP-PHRASE] You can say speaking of something that has just been mentioned as a way of introducing a new topic which has some connection with that thing. There's plenty of time to drop hints for Christmas presents! And speaking of presents, we have 100 exclusive fragrance collections to give away. = talking of 4 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You use speaking in expressions such as generally speaking and technically speaking to indicate which things or which par...

spear / sp'ɪə r / (spears spearing speared) 1 [N-COUNT] A spear is a weapon consisting of a long pole with a sharp metal point attached to the end. 2 [VERB] V n If you spear something, you push or throw a pointed object into it. Spear a piece of fish with a carving fork and dip it in the batter... 3 [N-COUNT] with supp Asparagus or broccoli spears are individual stalks of asparagus or broccoli.

spear|head / sp'ɪə r hed / (spearheads spearheading spearheaded) [VERB] V n If someone spearheads a campaign or an attack, they lead it. (JOURNALISM) ...Esther Rantzen, who is spearheading a national campaign against bullying...

spear|mint / sp'ɪə r mɪnt / [N-UNCOUNT] Spearmint is a plant whose leaves have a strong smell and taste. It is often used for flavouring foods, especially sweets.

spec / sp'ek / (specs) 1 [N-PLURAL] also a pair of N Someone's specs are their glasses. (INFORMAL) ...a young businessman in his specs and suit. 2 [N-COUNT] The spec for something, especially a machine or vehicle, is its design and the features included in it. (INFORMAL) The standard spec includes stainless steel holding tanks. = specification 3 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you do something on spec , you do it hoping to get something that you want, but without being asked or without being certain to get it. (INFORMAL) When searching for a job Adrian favours networking and writing letters on spec.

♦♦♦ spe|cial / sp'eʃ ə l / (specials) 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is special is better or more important than other people or things. You're very special to me, darling... There are strong arguments for holidays at Easter and Christmas because these are special occasions... My special guest will be comedian Ben Elton. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Special means different from normal. In special cases, a husband can deduct the travel expenses of his wife who accompanies him on a business trip... So you didn't notice anything special about him?... ≠ normal 3 [ADJ] ADJ n You use special to describe someone who is officially appointed or who has a particular position specially created for them. Frank Deford is a special correspondent for Newsweek magazine. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n Special institutions are for people who have serious physical or mental problems. Police are still searching for a convicted rapist, who escaped from Broadmoor special hospital ...

spe|cial|ism / sp'eʃəlɪzəm / (specialisms) 1 [N-COUNT] Someone's specialism is a particular subject or skill which they study and know a lot about. ...a teacher with a specialism in mathematics. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Specialism is the act of specializing in a particular subject. The needs of children may not be best met by an over-emphasis on subject specialism.

♦ spe|cial|ist / sp'eʃəlɪst / (specialists) [N-COUNT] usu N n, n N, N in/on n A specialist is a person who has a particular skill or knows a lot about a particular subject. ...a specialist in diseases of the nervous system. = expert

spe|ci|al|ity / speʃi'ælɪti / (specialities) 1 [N-COUNT] Someone's speciality is a particular type of work that they do most or do best, or a subject that they know a lot about. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use specialty ) My father was a historian of repute. His speciality was the history of Germany... 2 [N-COUNT] with supp A speciality of a particular place is a special food or product that is always very good there. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use specialty ) Rhineland dishes are a speciality of the restaurant...

♦ spe|cial|ize / sp'eʃəlaɪz / (specializes specializing specialized) in BRIT, also use specialise [VERB] V in n, V in n If you specialize in a thing, you know a lot about it and concentrate a great deal of your time and energy on it, especially in your work or when you are studying or training. You also use specialize to talk about a restaurant which concentrates on a particular type of food. ...a University professor who specializes in the history of the Russian empire. ...a Portuguese restaurant which specializes in seafood. ● specialization [N-VAR] This degree offers a major specialisation in Social Policy alongside a course in Sociology.

spe|cial|ized / sp'eʃəlaɪzd / in BRIT, also use specialised [ADJ] Someone or something that is specialized is trained or developed for a particular purpose or area of knowledge. Cocaine addicts get specialized support from knowledgeable staff. ...a specialized knowledge of American History.

spe|cial|ly / sp'eʃəli / 1 [ADV] ADV with v, oft ADV for n If something has been done specially for a particular person or purpose, it has been done only for that person or purpose. ...a soap specially designed for those with sensitive skins... The school is specially for children whose schooling has been disrupted by illness. 2 [ADV] ADV with v, ADV with cl/group Specially is used to mean more than usually or more than other things. (INFORMAL) What was specially enjoyable about that job? = particularly

spe|cial|ty / sp'eʃ ə lti / (specialties) 1 [N-COUNT] Someone's specialty is a particular type of work that they do most or do best, or a subject that they know a lot about. (AM; in BRIT, use speciality ) His specialty is international law... 2 [N-COUNT] A specialty of a particular place is a special food or product that is always very good there. (AM; in BRIT, use speciality ) ...seafood, paella, empanadas and other specialties.

♦ spe|cies / sp'iːʃiz / (species) [N-COUNT] A species is a class of plants or animals whose members have the same main characteristics and are able to breed with each other. Pandas are an endangered species... There are several thousand species of trees here.

♦♦ spe|cif|ic / spɪs'ɪfɪk / 1 [ADJ] ADJ n You use specific to refer to a particular fixed area, problem, or subject. Massage may help to increase blood flow to specific areas of the body... There are several specific problems to be dealt with... ...the specific needs of the individual. = particular 2 [ADJ] If someone is specific , they give a description that is precise and exact. You can also use specific to describe their description. These nerve centres generate rhythmic movements; or to be more specific, rhythmic stomach movements... This report offered the most specific and accurate description of the problems. = precise ≠ vague ● specificity [N-UNCOUNT] ...the kind of extreme specificity normally associated only with computer programmes. 3 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ to n Something that is specific to a particular thing is connected with that thing only. Send your resume with a cover letter that is specific to that particular job. = pe...

♦ spe|cifi|cal|ly / spɪs'ɪfɪkli / 1 [ADV] ADV with v You use specifically to emphasize that something is given special attention and considered separately from other things of the same kind. ...the first nursing home designed specifically for people with AIDS... We haven't specifically targeted school children. ...the only book specifically about that event. 2 [ADV] ADV with group You use specifically to add something more precise or exact to what you have already said. ...the Christian, and specifically Protestant, religion. ...brain cells, or more specifically, neurons. 3 [ADV] ADV adj You use specifically to indicate that something has a restricted nature, as opposed to being more general in nature. ...a specifically female audience... This is a European, and not a specifically British, problem. 4 [ADV] ADV with v If you state or describe something specifically , you state or describe it precisely and clearly. I specifically asked f...

speci|fi|ca|tion / sp'esɪfɪk'eɪʃ ə n / (specifications) [N-COUNT] A specification is a requirement which is clearly stated, for example about the necessary features in the design of something. Troll's exclusive, personalized luggage is made to our own exacting specifications in heavy-duty PVC/nylon... Legislation will require UK petrol companies to meet an EU specification for petrol.

spe|cif|ics / spɪs'ɪfɪks / [N-PLURAL] The specifics of a subject are the details of it that need to be considered. Things improved when we got down to the specifics... = particulars