The English Lexicon: An Exploration of Common and Beautiful Words

By Saiful Alam

The English language is a beautiful and diverse entity, comprising a vast and ever-evolving lexicon. Words are not only tools for communication but also convey a sense of emotion, imagination, and creativity. Each word has its own unique history, meaning, and usage, making them fascinating to explore and learn.

 

"The English Lexicon: An Exploration of Common and Beautiful Words" is a comprehensive guide that delves into the beauty and intricacies of the English language. This book is designed for both native and non-native speakers who are interested in expanding their vocabulary and exploring the nuances of the English language.

 

Inside this book, you will find a collection of common and beautiful words, along with their definitions, meanings, and usage in various contexts. The book covers words from different parts of speech, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. Additionally, this book also explores the history and origin of each word, giving readers a deeper understanding of its evolution and usage over time.

 

The book also includes short conversations that demonstrate how to use these words in everyday life. These conversations are designed to help readers practice using these words in context and build their confidence in their English language skills.

 

This book is not just a dictionary or a list of words. It is an exploration of the English language and its fascinating lexicon. The English language is an ever-changing entity, and this book is designed to help readers keep up with its evolution and embrace its beauty.

 

I hope this book will be a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their English language skills and develop a love for the beauty and diversity of the English lexicon.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Saiful Alam
• Release date: May 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223860914

Book preview

Preface

The English language is a beautiful and diverse entity, comprising a vast and ever-evolving lexicon. Words are not only tools for communication but also convey a sense of emotion, imagination, and creativity. Each word has its own unique history, meaning, and usage, making them fascinating to explore and learn.

The English Lexicon: An Exploration of Common and Beautiful Words is a comprehensive guide that delves into the beauty and intricacies of the English language. This book is designed for both native and non-native speakers who are interested in expanding their vocabulary and exploring the nuances of the English language.

Inside this book, you will find a collection of common and beautiful words, along with their definitions, meanings, and usage in various contexts. The book covers words from different parts of speech, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. Additionally, this book also explores the history and origin of each word, giving readers a deeper understanding of its evolution and usage over time.

The book also includes short conversations that demonstrate how to use these words in everyday life. These conversations are designed to help readers practice using these words in context and build their confidence in their English language skills.

This book is not just a dictionary or a list of words. It is an exploration of the English language and its fascinating lexicon. The English language is an ever-changing entity, and this book is designed to help readers keep up with its evolution and embrace its beauty.

I hope this book will be a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their English language skills and develop a love for the beauty and diversity of the English lexicon.

Aberrant

Definition:

Departing from an accepted standard or norm; deviating from what is typical or expected.

Meaning:

The word aberrant comes from the Latin word aberrare, which means to wander away or to go astray. In English, it is used to describe something or someone that deviates from what is considered normal or acceptable.

History:

The word aberrant has been in use in English since the mid-16th century, derived from the Latin word aberrare. Originally used in a scientific context to describe something that deviates from a typical or expected pattern, it later took on a more general meaning, referring to anything that is abnormal or deviates from what is considered normal or acceptable.

Parts of speech: Aberrant is an adjective.

Synonyms:

Deviant, abnormal, atypical, anomalous, irregular.

Antonyms:

Normal, typical, standard, regular, conventional.

Short conversation:

I heard that he got fired from his job.

Really? Why?

Apparently, he was doing some aberrant things at work that weren't acceptable.

Wow, I wonder what he was doing.

Abscond

Definition:

To depart suddenly and secretly, especially to avoid detection or legal prosecution.

Meaning:

The word abscond comes from the Latin word abscondere, which means to hide. In English, it is used to describe the act of leaving quickly and secretly, often to avoid something negative, such as punishment, responsibility, or a difficult situation.

History:

The word abscond has been in use in English since the early 17th century, borrowed from the Latin word abscondere. It was originally used in legal contexts to describe the act of hiding property or assets to avoid legal prosecution. Over time, the word took on a more general meaning, referring to any act of leaving quickly and secretly.

Parts of speech: Abscond is a verb.

Tense:

Present tense: abscond

Past tense: absconded

Past participle: absconded

Present participle: absconding

Synonyms:

Flee, escape, run away, bolt, depart, decamp.

Antonyms:

Stay, remain, arrive, come, show up.

Short conversation:

Have you seen John? He left without saying anything.

I think he absconded after he found out he was going to be fired.

That's not very responsible of him. He should have at least talked to his boss.

Accolade

Definition:

An expression of praise or admiration; an award or honor given to someone for their achievements.

Meaning:

The word accolade originally referred to a gesture used in medieval times to confer knighthood. It involved tapping the shoulder with the flat side of a sword. Today, the word is used more broadly to describe any sign of recognition or approval, often in the form of an award or honor.

History:

The word accolade comes from the French word accoler, which means to embrace. It was originally used in English to describe the act of conferring knighthood, which involved the aforementioned shoulder-tapping with a sword. Over time, the word's meaning expanded to include any form of recognition or honor.

Parts of speech: Accolade is a noun.

Synonyms:

Honor, award, recognition, tribute, praise.

Antonyms:

Criticism, censure, condemnation, disapproval, rebuke.

Short conversation:

Congratulations on winning the Nobel Prize!

Thanks so much! It's such an incredible accolade.

You really deserve it. Your work is amazing.

Acumen

Definition:

The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, especially in a particular field or area of expertise.

Meaning:

Acumen comes from the Latin word acumen, which means sharpness or point. It is used to describe a person's ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, particularly in a specific field or area of expertise.

History:

The word acumen has been used in English since the early 16th century, borrowed from the Latin word acumen. It originally referred to the sharpness of a pointed object, such as a needle or a spear. Over time, the word came to be used more metaphorically, referring to the sharpness of a person's mind or judgment.

Parts of speech: Acumen is a noun.

Synonyms:

Keenness, insight, shrewdness, discernment, perception.

Antonyms:

Ineptitude, stupidity, ignorance, dullness, obtuseness.

Short conversation:

How did she become so successful in that field?

She has a lot of acumen when it comes to marketing.

Ah, I see. That explains it.

Adroit

Definition:

Clever or skillful in using the hands or mind; adept.

Meaning:

The word adroit comes from the French word adroite, which means right-handed or skillful. In English, it is used to describe someone who is skillful or adept in a particular task or situation.

History:

The word adroit was first used in English in the early 17th century, borrowed from the French language. Originally, it was used to describe someone who was skilled with their right hand, but over time, it came to refer to anyone who was skilled or adept in any way.

Parts of speech: Adroit is an adjective.

Synonyms:

Skillful, adept, dexterous, deft, proficient.

Antonyms:

Clumsy, inept, awkward, unskillful, bungling.

Short conversation:

I can't figure out how to fix this machine. Do you know anything about it?

Actually, I'm pretty adroit when it comes to repairing electronics. Let me take a look.

Wow, you really know what you're doing. Thanks for your help!

Aesthete

Definition:

A person who has a refined sense of taste and appreciation for beauty, especially in the arts.

Meaning:

The word aesthete comes from the Greek word aisthēsis, meaning perception or sensation. It refers to a person who has a deep appreciation for beauty and art, and who seeks to surround themselves with beautiful things.

History:

The term aesthete was first used in the 19th century in reference to a movement that emphasized the importance of beauty and art. This movement, known as aestheticism, sought to elevate the value of art and beauty in a world that was becoming increasingly industrialized and focused on materialism. The term aesthete was used to describe those who embraced the aestheticism movement and its ideals.

Parts of speech: Aesthete is a noun.

Synonyms:

Connoisseur, dilettante, gourmet, bon vivant.

Antonyms:

Philistine, boor, vulgarian, ignoramus, barbarian.

Short conversation:

Have you seen John's new apartment? It's beautiful!

Yes, I heard he spent a lot of money on decorating it. He's quite the aesthete.

That's definitely true. He has a great eye for design.

Alacrity

Definition:

Cheerful willingness; eagerness; promptness in response.

Meaning:

Alacrity comes from the Latin word alacritas, meaning cheerfulness or eagerness. In English, it is used to describe a state of readiness, willingness, or enthusiasm to do something.

History:

The word alacrity has been in use in English since the 15th century, borrowed from the Latin word alacritas. It originally referred to a state of eagerness or enthusiasm, but over time, its meaning has broadened to include a sense of promptness or willingness to take action.

Parts of speech: Alacrity is a noun.

Synonyms:

Willingness, eagerness, enthusiasm, promptness, readiness.

Antonyms:

Reluctance, hesitation, apathy, indifference.

Short conversation:

Hey, we need someone to help move these boxes.

I'll do it with alacrity! I've been wanting to help out anyway.

That's great, thanks for your eagerness.

Altruism

Definition:

The principle or practice of unselfish concern for or devotion to the welfare of others.

Meaning:

The word altruism comes from the French word altruisme, which was coined by philosopher Auguste Comte in the mid-19th century. It refers to the idea of selfless concern for the welfare of others, often without regard for one's own interests or well-being.

History:

The concept of altruism has a long history in philosophy, religion, and ethics. However, the term altruism was first used in its modern sense by Comte, who believed that society should be organized around the principle of altruism rather than individualism.

Parts of speech: Altruism is a noun.

Synonyms:

Selflessness, self-sacrifice, philanthropy, generosity, unselfishness.

Antonyms:

Selfishness, self-centeredness, egoism, greed, self-interest.

Short conversation:

Why do you always volunteer to help others?

I believe in practicing altruism. It feels good to help people without expecting anything in return.

That's really admirable. I wish more people were like that.

Thanks, I just think it's important to do what we can to make the world a better place.

Amenable

Definition:

Willing to agree or accept something; responsive to suggestion or advice.

Meaning:

The word amenable comes from the Latin word amēnābilis, meaning pleasing or friendly. In English, it is used to describe someone who is open and responsive to suggestions or criticism.

History:

The word amenable has been in use in English since the 16th century, borrowed from the Old French word amener, meaning to lead, bring along. It was originally used in a legal context to refer to someone who was liable to be brought to account or responsible for something. Over time, the word's meaning shifted to refer to someone who was open and responsive to guidance or suggestion.

Parts of speech: Amenable can be used as an adjective or as a noun (amenableness).

Synonyms:

Cooperative, compliant, agreeable, receptive, pliable.

Antonyms:

Unyielding, stubborn, resistant, uncooperative, inflexible.

Short conversation:

I'm not sure if he'll be willing to change the way he does things.

Actually, I think he might be amenable to your suggestions if you approach him in the right way.

That's good to hear. I'll try to talk to him about it.

Anathema

Definition:

A formal curse or denunciation, the object of which is a person or thing regarded as a source of harm or disgrace.

Meaning:

The word anathema comes from the Greek word anathema, which means something dedicated to evil or a curse. In English, it is used to describe something or someone that is cursed or greatly disliked.

History:

The word anathema has been in use in English since the 16th century, borrowed from the Greek word anathema. In ancient Greece, an anathema was a religious offering or sacrifice that was dedicated to the gods, usually to avert their anger or to gain their favor. Over time, the word took on a more negative connotation, and came to mean something that was cursed or shunned by society.

Parts of speech: Anathema is a noun.

Synonyms:

Abomination, curse, detestation, execration, loathing.

Antonyms:

Blessing, approval, admiration, praise, liking.

Short conversation:

I can't stand that politician. He's an anathema to everything I believe in.

Yeah, a lot of people feel that way. He's been getting a lot of negative press lately.

Good. Maybe people will finally realize how harmful he is.

Anomaly

Definition:

Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

Meaning:

The word anomaly comes from the Greek word anomalos, meaning irregular or uneven. In English, it is used to describe something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

History:

The word anomaly has been used in English since the 17th century, borrowed from the Latin word anomalus. It was originally used in the context of astronomy to describe the position of a planet or star that deviated from the expected or predicted position. Over time, the word took on a more general meaning and is now used to describe any deviation or departure from what is expected or usual.

Parts of speech: Anomaly is a noun.

Synonyms:

Abnormality, deviation, irregularity, oddity, peculiarity, aberration.

Antonyms:

Normality, conformity, regularity, usualness, conformity.

Short conversation:

Why is the temperature so high today?

I'm not sure. It's an anomaly. Usually, it's much cooler this time of year.

That's strange. I hope it cools down soon.

Antipathy

Definition:

A strong feeling of dislike or aversion towards something or someone; a deep-seated feeling of hostility or animosity.

Meaning:

The word antipathy comes from the Greek words anti, which means against, and pathos, which means feeling. In English, it is used to describe a strong feeling of dislike or aversion towards something or someone.

History:

The word antipathy has been in use in English since the 16th century, borrowed from the Greek word antipathia. It originally referred to a physical reaction, such as nausea or vomiting, that was believed to be caused by a strong aversion to something. Over time, the word took on a more general meaning, referring to any strong feeling of dislike or aversion.

Parts of speech: Antipathy is a noun.

Synonyms:

Aversion, dislike, hatred, loathing, repugnance.

Antonyms:

Affection, fondness, liking, love, attraction.

Short conversation:

Why don't you want to go to the party?

I just have a strong antipathy towards large social gatherings.

Oh, I see. Well, we can do something else instead if you want.

Arcane

Definition:

Understood by only a few; mysterious or secret.

Meaning:

The word arcane comes from the Latin word arcanus, which means secret or hidden. In English, it is used to describe something that is mysterious or understood by only a few people.

History:

The word arcane has been in use in English since the 16th century, borrowed from the Latin word arcanus. It was originally used to describe things that were secret or hidden, such as mystical or occult knowledge.

Parts of speech: Arcane is an adjective.

Synonyms:

Mysterious, obscure, enigmatic, esoteric, cryptic.

Antonyms:

Clear, obvious, evident, plain, straightforward.

Short conversation:

I'm not sure I understand this book.

What part of it is confusing?

The author uses a lot of arcane language.

Ah, I see what you mean. Maybe we can find a simpler book on the topic.

Aspersion

Definition:

An attack on the reputation or integrity of someone or something; a damaging or false statement.

Meaning:

Aspersion comes from the Latin word aspersio, which means sprinkling or scattering. In English, it is used to describe an attack on someone's reputation or character by spreading false or harmful information.

History:

The word aspersion has been in use in English since the 14th century, borrowed from the Latin word aspersio. Originally, it was used in religious contexts to describe the sprinkling of holy water as a form of purification. Over time, the word took on a more general meaning, referring to any kind of verbal attack that harms a person's reputation.

Parts of speech: Aspersion is a noun.

Synonyms:

Slander, defamation, libel, calumny, vilification.

Antonyms:

Praise, compliment, commendation, endorsement, admiration.

Short conversation:

I can't believe she spread those rumors about me.

Yeah, that was really uncalled for. She was casting aspersions on your character.

I know, I feel so violated.

Don't worry, we'll find a way to clear your name.

Avarice

Definition:

Extreme greed for wealth or material gain.

Meaning:

Avarice comes from the Latin word avaritia, which means greed or covetousness. It refers to an excessive desire for wealth or material possessions that leads to selfish and unethical behavior.

History:

The concept of avarice has been a part of human culture since ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans recognized the dangers of excessive wealth and the negative effects it can have on individuals and society as a whole. The concept of avarice was also an important theme in medieval Christianity, which viewed it as a sin that could lead to damnation.

Parts of speech: Avarice is a noun.

Synonyms:

Greed, cupidity, covetousness, rapacity, acquisitiveness.

Antonyms:

Generosity, philanthropy, selflessness, altruism, benevolence.

Short conversation:

Why does he keep working so hard? He already has so much money.

It's just avarice. He can never have enough.

That's kind of sad, isn't it?

Yeah, it is. It's important to remember that there are more important things than money.

Baleful

Definition:

Threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments; harmful or malignant in intent or effect.

Meaning:

The word baleful comes from the Old English word bealofull, which means full of deadly or pernicious influence. It is used to describe something that is threatening or harmful, often with a sense of malevolence or evil intent.

History:

The word baleful has been in use in English since the 14th century. It comes from the Old English word bealofull, which combines bealu (evil) with full (full of), giving the sense of something that is filled with evil or malevolent intent.

Parts of speech: Baleful is an adjective.

Synonyms:

Malevolent, evil, harmful, menacing, ominous.

Antonyms:

Benign, harmless, friendly, kind, benevolent.

Short conversation:

I don't like the look of those storm clouds. They seem really dark and foreboding.

Yeah, they look baleful. I think we should get inside before the storm hits.

Good idea. I don't want to get caught in it.

Beguile

Definition:

To charm or enchant someone in a deceptive way; to lead someone astray through deception or trickery.

Meaning:

The word beguile comes from the Middle English word bigilen, which meant to deceive or cheat. It later evolved to mean to charm or enchant, often through the use of deception or trickery.

History:

The word beguile has been in use in English since the 14th century, derived from the Old English word bigilan. Originally, it referred specifically to the act of cheating or deceiving someone. Over time, the meaning broadened to include the idea of charming or enchanting someone, even if it involved deception.

Parts of speech: Beguile can be used as a verb.

Tense:

Present tense: beguile

Past tense: beguiled

Past participle: beguiled

Present participle: beguiling

Synonyms:

Deceive, charm, enchant, bewitch, seduce.

Antonyms:

Disenchant, disgust, repel, deter, discourage.

Short conversation:

I can't believe he beguiled me into giving him all my money!

What did he do?

He told me he needed it for a good cause, but then he disappeared with it.

That's terrible. You should report him to the authorities.

Benign

Definition:

Gentle, kindly; not harmful or malignant.

Meaning:

Benign comes from the Latin word benignus, which means kind, gracious. In English, the term is used to describe something that is not harmful or malignant, such as a benign tumor.

History:

The word benign has been in use in English since the 14th century, borrowed from the Latin word benignus. It originally had a broader meaning of kind or gracious, but over time, it came to be associated with things that were not harmful.

Parts of speech: Benign is an adjective.

Synonyms:

Harmless, gentle, mild, nonthreatening, innocuous.

Antonyms:

Malignant, harmful, dangerous, aggressive, malevolent.

Short conversation:

The doctor said they found a tumor, but it's benign.

Oh, thank goodness! That means it's not cancerous, right?

Exactly. It's not harmful and won't spread.

Cajole

Definition:

To persuade someone to do something by coaxing, flattery, or promises.

Meaning:

Cajole comes from the French word cagouler, which means to hoodwink. It was first used in English in the 17th century, and it originally referred to the practice of hoodwinking or deceiving someone. Over time, the word took on a more positive connotation, referring to the act of persuading someone to do something by flattering or coaxing them.

Parts of speech: Cajole is a verb.

Tense:

Present tense: cajole

Past tense: cajoled

Past participle: cajoled

Present participle: cajoling

Synonyms:

Persuade, coax, flatter, wheedle, entice.

Antonyms:

Discourage, dissuade, intimidate, repel, deter.

Short conversation:

I don't know if I should go to the party tonight. I'm feeling pretty tired.

Come on, it'll be fun! You should go.

I don't know...

I heard that your crush is going to be there.

Really? Okay, you've convinced me. You're so good at cajoling me into doing things.

Callous

Definition:

Showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others.

Meaning:

The word callous comes from the Latin word