#allotropies

[materialsscienceandengineering]

2D layer of phosphorus pentamers shows semiconductor properties on silver surface

Phosphorus is a vital component of every organism and plays a key role, for example, in energy transfer in the body and within cell membranes, bones and teeth. Phosphorus is also special because it occurs in numerous different forms (allotropes). For example, there is the highly explosive, toxic white phosphorus, the more stable red phosphorus known from match heads, or the crystalline, semi-conducting black phosphorus. The latter has numerous applications in electronic devices. The variety of phosphorus compounds and their physical and chemical properties can be further extended by the self-assembly of two-dimensional phosphorus structures on surfaces.

Read more.

[kostusha]

Allotropy

[murky-tannin]

Dapper's Hemomancy notes

Dapper also said Bad's blood wasn't human, but that's hardly news.

Transcription of the text under cut!

dapper's hemomancy notes: I have seen dad and the others leak this red liquid, they call it blood. apparently they share composition with that of villagers. I also found some practical uses for it. its quite rich in materials. I can use it

so Albumin is the protein inside eggs that work as a binding agent in baking. an egg has 4.225 grams of albumin. a liter of human blood has around 35-50 grams. if we use 42.5 as a middle point we get that we need 99.4 millimeters of blood to replace an egg

if the standard adult male has between 5 or 6 liters of blood. if we round it to 5.5 and we again say it has an albumin content of 42.5 grams per liter, a person can replace about 553 eggs with a Margin of error of about 50 eggs depending on the amount of blood volume it has

Human bodies have iron, mainly in the blood. a standard european longsword weights 1.2 to 1.8 kilos so rounding it to 1.6 kilos, in about 5.5 liters of standard blood we can find 3.5 to 4.5 grams of blood, so we round it up to 4 since there is about 0.45 grams per liter.

all of this means we would need the blood of 3556 people to make a european Iongsword that weights 1.6 kilos

Chlorine and sodium are also part of the human's blood, and its also part of what they know as table salt. due to molecular masses in a kilo of table salt we would have about 607 grams of chlorine and 393 grams of sodium. a liter of blood has 3.545 grams of chlorine and about

3.2206 grams of sodium. this means that you would need 171.44 liters of human blood to reach the required chlorine and in it you would already have the 122.1 liters required to reach the amount of sodium required for the kilo of table salt.

I have realized human's blood also contain phosphorus, I remember using it in matches. a box of matches of say 30 matches of bad quality so of about 1 gram of phosphorus each. and in the case that you are able to do allotropy to convert the white phosphorus from human's blood

into the required red phosphorus for matches (which is apparently a 1 to 1 conversation due to laws of conservation of mass). now in a liter of human blood you can find about 0.25 to 0.45 milligrams of human blood so we round it to 0.35 milligrams. now if we want to make the box

of matches from it we would need about 85,714.29 liters of human blood to get enough phosphorus for 30 mediocre matches. this is without counting the igniting stick as I dont know the standard length of those to calculate them aswell. I need more research

[trillobyteart]

Allotropy

[telkomuniversityputi]

Mengapa galeri seni baru di Bangalore penting bagi sains India

SAYANA PEKERJAAN berjudul “Allotropy of Mine” Daniela Brill Estrada, seorang seniman dari Kolombia, menantang pemirsa dengan kandungan karbon dalam tubuhnya. Satu set rak Ikea memajang botol-botol, besar dan kecil, masing-masing diisi dengan bubuk arang dan diberi label bagian tubuh yang diwakilinya: “Otak: 150g”, “Flora usus: 210g”, “Lemak: 2,1kg”. Ini adalah cara yang ampuh untuk…

[i-should-have-studied]

I refuse to study P-Block properly.

But I did type out a few answers for hw

1. General Characters of P-Block Elements:

P-block elements are found in groups 13 to 18 of the periodic table.

They include metals, metalloids, and nonmetals.

Valence electrons occupy p orbitals, They are characterized by the ns2 np1-6 electronic configuration (ex: boron family is ns2 np1, carbon family is ns2 np2, ect.)

As we move down the group, atomic and ionic radii decreases because of the addition of electrons that take place in the same valence, increasing the charged pull of the nucleus each time

The metals are electrophilic and the nonmetals are electronegative in nature

Show variable oxidation states, it increases from left to right in the periodic table.

Fluorine is the most electronegative

Most elements in the block show allotropy (C: graphite, diamond, etc) with the exception of group 17

2. Lewis Acid Character of Boron Trihalides

Boron Trihalides (BX3) are formed when boron undergoes halogenation

Lewis acids are chemical species which have empty orbitals and therefore are able to accept electron pairs from Lewis bases

Boron trihalides form stable bonds with lewis bases, hence why they have lewis acid character. They can do so because their electronic configuration is ns2 np1, only 3 electrons in their valence shell, an incomplete octet. When one atom of boron combines with three fluorine atoms, its octet remains incomplete. Hence, boron trifluoride remains electron-deficient.

The order of Lewis acid strength is least in Boron trifluoride and most in boron triiodide: BI3 > BBr3 > BCl3 > BF3

3. What are carbides

Carbides are compounds composed of carbon and a less electronegative element.

Generally they are prepared from metals or metal oxides at high temperatures by combining it with carbon.

They can be classified into three types based on their bonding: ionic, covalent, and interstitial.

Ionic carbides: aka saline or salt like carbides, feature ionic bonds between carbon and metal. They are composed of highly electropositive atoms such as alkali metals, alkali earth metals, group 3 metals mixed with C and some metals like Zn, Cd, and some lanthanides. Only Al from group 13 can form ionic carbides. They are transparent crystalline structures which are readily hydrolyzed by water to give hydrocarbons.

Covalent carbides: have carbon covalently bonded to elements that have the same electronegativity or higher than carbon. For example, H, S, Cl.

Interstitial carbides: derived primarily from large transition metals which act as the host lattice for smaller carbon atoms. Therefore the carbon atoms are situated in interstitial spaces and closely packed to the metal atoms. These carbides are both extremely hard and brittle, have a high melting point, and retain most of the metal’s properties. Are chemically inert.

4. Classification of carbides

Ionic carbides are classified into: Methanides, Acetylides, Allylides.

Methanides give methane on hydrolysis (Al4C3)

Acetylides give acetylene on hydrolysis (MgC2)

Allylides give allylene on hydrolysis. (Mg2C3)

Covalent carbides are classified into two groups:

One group with small molecules which are thermally unstable. (CCl4)

And another with large molecules that are thermally stable. (SiC)

Interstitial carbides has no subgroups.

5. Application of Silicones

Silicone products may be in the form of fluids, greases, or resins/rubbers, depending on the size and type of polymers.

Resins: rigid crosslinked polymers, produces a film with excellent heat resistance, weatherability, dielectric properties, and water resistance. Used to make paint coating.

Rubbers: Long straight chained polymers, 6000-700 long. Has Si-O bonded in its structure, making it more heat resistant, chemically stable, and electrically insulative. Great for oven mitts and wire covers.

Greases: oil based with inert fillers and lithium soap thickener. Good for sealing and lubrication. Good for thermal resistance and lubrication.

6. Classification of Oxides

Oxides can be classified two different ways, based on nature and properties and based on oxygen content.

There are 4 groups under nature and properties: Acidic, Basic, Amphoteric, and Neutral.

Acidic oxides create acid when combined with water. (SO3)

Basic oxides create base when combined with water. (Na20)

Amphoteric oxides create both acids and bases when combined with water. (ZnO)

Neutral oxides create neither acids nor bases when combined with water. (H2O)

Based on Oxygen content there are:

Normal Oxides: in these oxides, oxygen content is as much as permitted by the normal valency of the metal (H2O)

Polyoxides: have more oxygen than permitted by the valency of the metal.

Peroxides (O-O) have peroxide group (BaO2), react with water to give H2O2

Superoxides (O2²-) have superoxide ion (KO2), react with water to give KOH

Dioxides are polyoxides with high oxygen content, don't react with water or acid to give H2O2 (MnO2)

Suboxides: oxides with less oxygen than permitted by the normal valency of the metal. (N2O)

Mixed Oxides: oxides made up of two similar oxides (Fe3O4 = FeO+Fe2O3)

[scholarshipportal]

(via Board Chemistry Question Paper - Resources & Key Concepts)

11th class Chemistry - Resources & Key Concepts

Chapter 1: Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry

➭ Matter, states of matter, and their properties

➭ Laws of Chemical Combination

➭ Dalton's atomic theory

➭ Mole concept and stoichiometry

➭ Chemical equations and balancing

Chapter 2: Structure of the Atom

➭ Subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, electrons

➭ Atomic number, mass number, isotopes

➭ Atomic models: Rutherford, Bohr, modern quantum mechanical model

➭ Electronic configuration and Aufbau principle

➭ Periodic trends: ionization enthalpy, electron affinity, atomic size

Chapter 3: Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties

➭ Modern periodic table and its organization

➭ Classification of elements into metals, non-metals, and metalloids

➭ Periodic trends in physical and chemical properties

Chapter 4: Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure

➭ Ionic bonding: formation, characteristics, examples

➭ Covalent bonding: Lewis structure, octet rule, types of covalent bonds (single, double, triple)

➭ Coordinate covalent bonding

➭ Metallic bonding

➭ VSEPR theory and shapes of molecules

Chapter 5: States of Matter

➭ Gaseous state: kinetic theory of gases, ideal gas equation, gas laws

➭ Liquid state: properties of liquids, intermolecular forces (hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, London dispersion forces)

➭ Solid state: crystalline and amorphous solids, types of crystals, unit cell

Chapter 6: Thermodynamics

➭ System, surroundings, types of systems (open, closed, isolated)

➭ The first law of thermodynamics: internal energy, work, heat

➭ Enthalpy (H) and its calculations

➭ Hess's law of constant heat summation

➭ Second law of thermodynamics: entropy (S), the spontaneity of reactions, Gibbs free energy (G)

Chapter 7: Equilibrium

➭ Reversible and irreversible reactions

➭ Chemical equilibrium: dynamic equilibrium, equilibrium constant (Kp andKc)

➭ Factors affecting equilibrium (concentration, temperature, pressure)

➭ Le Chatelier's principle

Chapter 8: Redox Reactions

➭ Oxidation and reduction, redox reactions

➭ Balancing redox reactions by oxidation number method

➭ Types of redox reactions (combination, decomposition, displacement)

➭ Electrochemical cells: galvanic and electrolytic cells

Chapter 9: The s-Block Elements (Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba)

➭ Electronic configuration trends

➭ Physical and chemical properties of each element

➭ Important compounds and their applications (e.g., sodium chloride, calcium carbonate)

➭ Diagonal relationships between Li and Mg, Be and Al

Chapter 10: The p-Block Elements (Group 13 to 17)

➭ Electronic configuration trends for each group

➭ Physical and chemical properties of each element group (e.g., Group 13 - Boron and Aluminum, Group 14 - Carbon and Silicon, Group 15 - Nitrogen and Phosphorus)

➭ Important compounds and their applications (e.g., boric acid, ammonia, sulfuric acid)

➭ Allotropy (e.g., carbon as diamond and graphite)

➭ Catenation (ability to form long chains)

Chapter 11: Organic Chemistry - I

➭ Basic concepts of organic chemistry (bonds, functional groups)

➭ Hydrocarbons: alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, aromatic hydrocarbons

➭ Isomerism (structural, geometrical, optical)

➭ Nomenclature of organic compounds (IUPAC system)

➭ Reactions of alkanes (substitution, combustion)

Chapter 12: Organic Chemistry - II

➭ Alcohols, phenols, ethers

➭ Aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids

➭ Amines, amides

➭ Organic compounds in everyday life (drugs, polymers, dyes)

Chapter 13: Polymers

➭ Classification of polymers (addition, condensation)

➭ Natural and synthetic polymers

➭ Important polymers and their properties (e.g., polyethylene, nylon, polyester)

➭ Biodegradable polymers and environmental concerns

Chapter 14: Environmental Chemistry

➭ Environmental pollution: types, sources, effects

➭ Air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution

➭ Strategies for pollution control and waste management

➭ Green chemistry and sustainable development

[gcjewelry]

Is diamond a metal or element?

Diamonds, with their dazzling brilliance and timeless allure, often prompt questions about their composition. One common query is whether diamonds are metals or elements. In this blog, we'll embark on a fascinating journey into the molecular realm of diamonds to unravel the mystery behind their classification.

Diamonds: Not Metals, Not Elements Diamonds, contrary to popular belief, are neither metals nor elements. Let's delve into the fundamental distinctions:

Diamonds as Crystalline Structures: Carbon, the Building Block:

At the core of a diamond's structure lies carbon, arranged in a crystal lattice formation. This crystalline structure is what imparts diamonds their exceptional hardness and unique optical properties. Allotropes of Carbon:

Carbon, in its various forms, showcases allotropy, where atoms are bonded in different arrangements. In diamonds, each carbon atom forms strong covalent bonds with four neighboring carbon atoms, resulting in a three-dimensional network. Not a Metal, But a Form of Carbon: Carbon's Diverse Forms:

Carbon exhibits diverse forms, including graphite, graphene, and amorphous carbon. Each form has distinct properties due to variations in the arrangement of carbon atoms. Diamond's Non-Metallic Nature:

While metals are characterized by their ability to conduct electricity, malleability, and ductility, diamonds lack these metallic attributes. Instead, diamonds are exceptional insulators and are renowned for their hardness. Crystalline Carbon, a Pure Element: Elemental Nature of Carbon:

Carbon, on the periodic table, is indeed an element (symbol: C). However, when arranged in the specific crystalline structure found in diamonds, it transcends its elemental state to become a unique and extraordinary form of pure carbon. Carbon's Elemental Purity:

Diamonds, in their purest form, consist solely of carbon atoms. This elemental purity contributes to the clarity and transparency that characterize these precious gems. The Carbon Brilliance: Diamonds are neither metals nor distinct elements but rather an extraordinary manifestation of carbon's crystalline structure. Their captivating beauty and exceptional hardness arise from the intricate lattice arrangement of carbon atoms. Understanding this distinction adds a layer of appreciation for the intricate world of gemology and the remarkable properties of carbon in its various forms. Diamonds, in their pure crystalline elegance, stand as a testament to the fascinating complexities of the natural world.

[worhmngd]

He’s a silly little demony guy

Just a funny little dragon guy being raised by Satan

Just doing a little bit of allotropy on villager blood

I love that dapper is the egg who keeps going “we have teeth? what is blood? blood loss kills you???” and he’s also the egg with the least human human design

[vasanthasworld]

WBBSE Solutions For Class 8 School Science Chapter 4 Occurrence Of Carbon And Its Compounds In Nature Short Answer Type Questions

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Allotropy and Polymorphism

Polymorphism is defined as when a material has more than one potential crystal structure. These phase transformations can occur as a result of different external variables - temperature, pressure, etc. - but typically only refer to crystalline materials. (For example, glass is not a polymorph of silica, it is a metastable phase.) Allotropy is a similar concept, but applies only to pure elements. Carbon has multiple potential phase transformations, such as graphite to diamond (or vice versa), which are considered allotropes of the elements. Because of these definitions, polymorphic and allotropic phase transformations are typically solid-solid transformations.

Sources/Further Reading: (Images source - collegedunia) (msestudent) (material-properties.org) (Polymorphism Wikipedia) (Allotropy Wikipedia)

[cosmiccino]

*al- (1)

Proto-Indo-European root meaning "beyond."

It forms all or part of: adulteration; adultery; alias; alibi; alien; alienate; alienation; allegory; allele;  allergy; allo-; allopathy; allotropy; Alsace; alter; altercation; alternate; alternative; altruism; eldritch; else; hidalgo; inter alia; other; outrage; outrageous; outre; parallax; parallel; subaltern; synallagmatic; ulterior; ultimate; ultra-.

It is the hypothetical source of/evidence for its existence is provided by: Sanskrit anya "other, different," arana- "foreign;" Avestan anya-, Armenian ail "another;" Greek allos "other, different, strange;" Latin alius "another, other, different," alter "the other (of two)," ultra "beyond, on the other side;" Gothic aljis "other," Old English elles "otherwise, else," German ander "other."

[babygirlvanitas]

Alliance n. 1 union or agreement to cooperate, esp. Of states by treaty or families by marriage. 2 (alliance) political coalition party. 3 relationship; friendship. [french: related to *ally]

Allied adj. 1 (also allied) associated in an alliance. 2 connected or related.

Alligator n. Large reptile of the crocodile family with a head broader and shorter than a crocodile's. [spanish el lagarto the lizard]

All-in attrib. Adj. Inclusive of all.

All-in wrestling n. Wrestling with few or no restrictions.

Alliteration n. Repetition of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words (e.g. Cool, calm, and collected).  alliterate v. (-ting). Alliterative adj. [latin: related to *letter]

Allocate v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By to) assign or devote to (a purpose, person, or place).  allocation n. [latin: related to *local]

Allot v. (-tt-) apportion or distribute to (a person), esp. As a share or task (they were allotted equal sums). [french a to, *lot]

Allotment n. 1 small piece of land rented by a local authority for cultivation. 2 share. 3 allotting.

Allotropy n. Existence of two or more different physical forms of a chemical element.  allotropic adj. [greek allos different, tropos manner]

Allow v. 1 (often foll. By to + infin.) Permit. 2 assign a limited amount etc. (was allowed £500). 3 (usu. Foll. By for) provide or set aside for a purpose; add or deduct in consideration (allow £50 for expenses; allow for wastage). [originally = commend, from french: related to *ad-, latin laudo praise, loco place]

Allowance n. 1 amount or sum allowed, esp. Regularly for a stated purpose. 2 amount allowed in reckoning. 3 deduction or discount.  make allowances (often foll. By for) 1 consider (mitigating circumstances). 2 make excuses for (a person, bad behaviour, etc.).

Alloy —n. 1 mixture of two or more metals. 2 inferior metal mixed esp. With gold or silver. —v. 1 mix (metals). 2 debase by admixture. 3 moderate (pleasure alloyed with pain). [french: related to *ally]

All-purpose attrib. Adj. Having many uses.

All-right attrib. Adj. Colloq. Acceptable (an all-right guy).

All-round attrib. Adj. (of a person) versatile.

All-rounder n. Versatile person.

All saints' day n. 1 nov., christian festival in honour of saints.

All souls' day n. 2 nov., roman catholic festival with prayers for the souls of the dead.

Allspice n. 1 aromatic spice obtained from the berry of the pimento plant. 2 the berry.

All-time attrib. Adj. (of a record etc.) Unsurpassed.

Allude v. (-ding) (foll. By to) refer to, esp. Indirectly or briefly. [latin: related to *ad-, ludo play]

Allure —v. (-ring) attract, charm, or entice. —n. Attractiveness, personal charm, fascination.  allurement n. [french: related to *ad-, *lure]

Allusion n. (often foll. By to) passing or indirect reference.  allusive adj. [latin: related to *allude]

Alluvial —adj. Of alluvium. —n. Alluvium, esp. Containing a precious metal. Alleluia (also hallelujah) —int. God be praised. —n. Song or shout of praise to god. [hebrew]

Allen key n. Propr. Spanner designed to turn an allen screw. [allen, name of the us manufacturer]

Allen screw n. Propr. Screw with a hexagonal socket in the head.

Allergic adj. 1 (foll. By to) a having an allergy to. B colloq. Having a strong dislike for. 2 caused by an allergy.

Allergy n. (pl. -ies) 1 adverse reaction to certain substances, esp. Particular foods, pollen, fur, or dust. 2 colloq. Antipathy. [greek allos other]

Alleviate v. (-ting) make (pain etc.) Less severe.  alleviation n. [latin levo raise]

Alley n. (pl. -s) 1 narrow street or passageway. 2 enclosure for skittles, bowling, etc. 3 walk or lane in a park etc. [french aller go]

Alliance n. 1 union or agreement to cooperate, esp. Of states by treaty or families by marriage. 2 (alliance) political coalition party. 3 relationship; friendship. [french: related to *ally]

Allied adj. 1 (also allied) associated in an alliance. 2 connected or related.

Alligator n. Large reptile of the crocodile family with a head broader and shorter than a crocodile's. [spanish el lagarto the lizard]

All-in attrib. Adj. Inclusive of all.

All-in wrestling n. Wrestling with few or no restrictions.

Alliteration n. Repetition of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words (e.g. Cool, calm, and collected).  alliterate v. (-ting). Alliterative adj. [latin: related to *letter]

Allocate v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By to) assign or devote to (a purpose, person, or place).  allocation n. [latin: related to *local]

Allot v. (-tt-) apportion or distribute to (a person), esp. As a share or task (they were allotted equal sums). [french a to, *lot]

Allotment n. 1 small piece of land rented by a local authority for cultivation. 2 share. 3 allotting.

Allotropy n. Existence of two or more different physical forms of a chemical element.  allotropic adj. [greek allos different, tropos manner]

Allow v. 1 (often foll. By to + infin.) Permit. 2 assign a limited amount etc. (was allowed £500). 3 (usu. Foll. By for) provide or set aside for a purpose; add or deduct in consideration (allow £50 for expenses; allow for wastage). [originally = commend, from french: related to *ad-, latin laudo praise, loco place]

Allowance n. 1 amount or sum allowed, esp. Regularly for a stated purpose. 2 amount allowed in reckoning. 3 deduction or discount.  make allowances (often foll. By for) 1 consider (mitigating circumstances). 2 make excuses for (a person, bad behaviour, etc.).

Alloy —n. 1 mixture of two or more metals. 2 inferior metal mixed esp. With gold or silver. —v. 1 mix (metals). 2 debase by admixture. 3 moderate (pleasure alloyed with pain). [french: related to *ally]

All-purpose attrib. Adj. Having many uses.

All-right attrib. Adj. Colloq. Acceptable (an all-right guy).

All-round attrib. Adj. (of a person) versatile.

All-rounder n. Versatile person.

All saints' day n. 1 nov., christian festival in honour of saints.

All souls' day n. 2 nov., roman catholic festival with prayers for the souls of the dead.

Allspice n. 1 aromatic spice obtained from the berry of the pimento plant. 2 the berry.

All-time attrib. Adj. (of a record etc.) Unsurpassed.

Allude v. (-ding) (foll. By to) refer to, esp. Indirectly or briefly. [latin: related to *ad-, ludo play]

Allure —v. (-ring) attract, charm, or entice. —n. Attractiveness, personal charm, fascination.  allurement n. [french: related to *ad-, *lure]

Allusion n. (often foll. By to) passing or indirect reference.  allusive adj. [latin: related to *allude]

Alluvial —adj. Of alluvium. —n. Alluvium, esp. Containing a precious metal. Alluvial —adj. Of alluvium. —n. Alluvium, esp. Containing a precious metal.

Alluvium n. (pl. -via) deposit of usu. Fine fertile soil left behind by a flood, esp. In a river valley. [latin luo wash]

Ally —n. (pl. -ies) state, person, etc., formally cooperating or united with another, esp. (also ally) in war. —v. Also (-ies, -ied) (often refl. And foll. By with) combine in alliance. [latin alligo bind]

Alma mater n. One's university, school, or college. [latin, = bounteous mother]

Almanac n. (also almanack) calendar, usu. With astronomical data. [medieval latin from greek]

Almighty adj. 1 having complete power. 2 (the almighty) god. 3 slang very great (almighty crash). [old english: related to *all, *mighty]

Almond n. 1 nutlike kernel of a fruit allied to the peach and plum. 2 tree bearing this. [greek amugdale]

Almoner n. Social worker attached to a hospital. [french: related to *alms]

Usage the usual term now is medical social worker.

Almost adv. All but; very nearly. [old english: related to *all, *most]

Alms n.pl. Hist. Donation of money or food to the poor. [greek eleemosune pity]

Almshouse n. Hist. Charitable institution for the poor.

Aloe n. 1 plant of the lily family with toothed fleshy leaves. 2 (in pl.) (in full bitter aloes) strong laxative from aloe juice. [old english from greek]

Aloft predic. Adj. & adv. 1 high up, overhead. 2 upwards. [old norse á lopti in air]

Alone —predic. Adj. 1 without the presence or help of others. 2 lonely (felt alone). —adv. Only, exclusively. [earlier al one: related to *all, *one]

Along —prep. Beside or through (part of) the length of. —adv. 1 onward, into a more advanced state (come along; getting along nicely). 2 with oneself or others (bring a book along). 3 beside or through part or the whole length of a thing.  along with in addition to; together with. [old english, originally adj. = facing against]

Alongside —adv. At or to the side. —prep. Close to the side of.

Aloof —adj. Distant, unsympathetic. —adv. Away, apart (he kept aloof). [originally naut., from *a2 + *luff]

Aloud adv. Audibly.

Alp n. 1 a high mountain. B (the alps) high range of mountains in switzerland and adjoining countries. 2 pasture land on a swiss mountainside. [originally alps, from greek alpeis]

Alpaca n. 1 shaggy s. American mammal related to the llama. 2 its wool; fabric made from this. [spanish from quechua]

Alpha n. 1 first letter of the greek alphabet (a, a). 2 first-class mark for a piece of work etc.  alpha and omega beginning and end. [latin from greek]

Alphabet n. 1 set of letters used in writing a language. 2 symbols or signs for these.  alphabetical adj. [greek *alpha, *beta]

Alphanumeric adj. Containing both letters and numbers.

Alpha particle n. Helium nucleus emitted by a radioactive substance.

Alpine —adj. Of mountainous regions or (alpine) the alps. —n. 1 plant growing in mountainous regions. 2 = *rock-plant. [latin: related to *alp]

Already adv. 1 before the time in question (i knew that already). 2 as early or as soon as this (is back already). [from *all, *ready]

Alright adv. = all right (see *all).

Usage although widely used, alright is still non-standard and is considered incorrect by many people.

Alsatian n. Large dog of a breed of wolfhound (also called *german shepherd). [latin alsatia alsace]

Also adv. In addition, besides. [old english: related to *all, *so1]

Also-ran n. 1 loser in a race. 2 undistinguished person.

Altar n. 1 table or flat block for sacrifice or offering to a deity. 2 communion table. [latin altus high]

Altarpiece n. Painting etc. Above or behind an altar.

Alter v. Make or become different; change.  alteration n. [latin alter other]

Altercate v. (-ting) (often foll. By with) dispute, wrangle.  altercation n. [latin]

Alter ego n. (pl. -s) 1 one's hidden or second self. 2 intimate friend. [latin, = other self] Alter ego n. (pl. -s) 1 one's hidden or second self. 2 intimate friend. [latin, = other self]

Alternate —v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By with) occur or cause to occur by turns. 2 (foll. By between) go repeatedly from one to another (alternated between hope and fear). —adj. 1 (with noun in pl.) Every other (on alternate days). 2 (of things of two kinds) alternating (alternate joy and misery).  alternately adv. Alternation n. [latin alterno do by turns: related to *alter]

Usage see note at alternative.

Alternate angles n.pl. Two angles formed alternately on two sides of a line.

Alternating current n. Electric current reversing its direction at regular intervals.

Alternative —adj. 1 available as another choice (alternative route). 2 unconventional (alternative medicine). —n. 1 any of two or more possibilities. 2 choice (had no alternative but to go).  alternatively adv.

Usage the adjective alternative should not be confused with alternate, as in ‘there will be a dance on alternate saturdays’.

Alternator n. Dynamo that generates an alternating current.

Although conj. = *though. [from *all, *though]

Altimeter n. Instrument indicating altitude reached.

Altitude n. Height, esp. Of an object above sea level or above the horizon. [latin altus high]

Alto n. (pl. -s) 1 = *contralto. 2 a highest adult male singing-voice, above tenor. B singer with this voice. 3 instrument pitched second- or third-highest in its family. [italian alto (canto) high (singing)]

Altogether adv. 1 totally, completely. 2 on the whole. 3 in total.  in the altogether colloq. Naked. [from *all, *together]

Usage note that altogether means ‘in total’, whereas all together means ‘all at once’ or ‘all in one place’. The phrases six rooms altogether (in total) and six rooms all together (in one place) illustrate the difference.

Altruism n. Unselfishness as a principle of action.  altruist n. Altruistic adj. [italian altrui somebody else]

Alum n. Double sulphate of aluminium and potassium. [latin alumen -min-]

Alumina n. Aluminium oxide occurring naturally as corundum and emery.

Aluminium n. (us aluminum) silvery light and malleable metallic element resistant to tarnishing by air.

Aluminize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) coat with aluminium.

Aluminum n. (brit. Aluminium) silvery light and malleable metallic element resistant to tarnishing by air.

Alumnus n. (pl. Alumni; fem. Alumna, pl. Alumnae) former pupil or student. [latin, = nursling, pupil]

Always adv. 1 at all times; on all occasions. 2 whatever the circumstances. 3 repeatedly, often. [from *all, *way]

Alyssum n. Plant with small usu. Yellow or white flowers. [greek, = curing madness]

Alzheimer's disease n. Brain disorder causing senility. [alzheimer, name of a neurologist]

Am abbr. Amplitude modulation.

Am symb. Americium.

Am 1st person sing. Present of *be.

A.m. Abbr. Before noon. [latin ante meridiem]

Amalgam n. 1 mixture or blend. 2 alloy of mercury and another metal, used esp. In dentistry. [greek malagma an emollient]

Amalgamate v. (-ting) 1 mix, unite. 2 (of metals) alloy with mercury.  amalgamation n. [medieval latin: related to *amalgam]

Amanuensis n. (pl. -enses) literary assistant, esp. Writing from dictation. [latin a manu ‘at hand’]

Amaranth n. 1 plant with small green, red, or purple tinted flowers. 2 imaginary unfading flower. 3 purple colour.  amaranthine adj. [greek amarantos unfading]

Amaryllis n. Bulbous plant with lily-like flowers. [greek, a girl's name]

Amass v. Heap together; accumulate. [french: related to *ad-, *mass1]

Amateur n. Person who engages in a pursuit as a pastime rather than a profession, or performs with limited skill.  amateurish adj. Amateurism n. [latin amator lover: related to *amatory]

Amatory adj. Of sexual love. [latin amo love] Amatory adj. Of sexual love. [latin amo love]

Amaze v. (-zing) surprise greatly, fill with wonder.  amazement n. Amazing adj. [earlier amase from old english amasod]

Amazon n. 1 female warrior of a mythical race in the black sea area. 2 (amazon) large, strong, or athletic woman.  amazonian adj. [latin from greek]

Ambassador n. 1 diplomat sent to live abroad to represent his or her country's interests. 2 promoter (ambassador of peace).  ambassadorial adj. [latin ambactus servant]

Amber —n. 1 a yellow translucent fossilized resin used in jewellery. B colour of this. 2 yellow traffic-light meaning caution. —adj. Of or like amber. [french from arabic]

Ambergris n. Waxlike secretion of the sperm whale, found floating in tropical seas and used in perfumes. [french, = grey amber]

Ambidextrous adj. Able to use either hand equally well. [latin ambi- on both sides, *dexter]

Ambience n. Surroundings or atmosphere. [latin ambio go round]

Ambient adj. Surrounding.

Ambiguous adj. 1 having an obscure or double meaning. 2 difficult to classify.  ambiguity n. (pl. -ies). [latin ambi- both ways, ago drive]

Ambit n. Scope, extent, or bounds. [latin: related to *ambience]

Ambition n. 1 determination to succeed. 2 object of this. [latin, = canvassing: related to *ambience]

Ambitious adj. 1 full of ambition or high aims. 2 (foll. By of, or to + infin.) Strongly determined.

Ambivalence n. Coexistence of opposing feelings.  ambivalent adj. [latin ambo both, *equivalent]

Amble —v. (-ling) move at an easy pace. —n. Such a pace. [latin ambulo walk]

Ambrosia n. 1 (in classical mythology) the food of the gods. 2 sublimely delicious food etc. [greek, = elixir of life]

Ambulance n. 1 vehicle equipped for conveying patients to hospital. 2 mobile hospital serving an army. [latin: related to *amble]

Ambulatory —adj. 1 of or for walking. 2 movable. —n. (pl. -ies) arcade or cloister. [latin: related to *amble]

Ambuscade n. & v. (-ding) = *ambush.

Ambush —n. 1 surprise attack by persons hiding. 2 hiding-place for this. —v. Attack from an ambush; waylay. [french: related to *in-1, *bush1]

Ameliorate v. (-ting) make or become better.  amelioration n. Ameliorative adj. [from *ad-, latin melior better]

Amen int. (esp. At the end of a prayer etc.) So be it. [church latin from hebrew, = certainly]

Amenable adj. 1 responsive, docile. 2 (often foll. By to) answerable to law etc. [french: related to *ad-, latin mino drive animals]

Amend v. 1 make minor alterations in to improve. 2 correct an error in (a document etc.). [latin: related to *emend]

Usage amend is often confused with emend, a more technical word used in the context of textual correction.

Amendment n. Minor alteration or addition in a document, resolution, etc.

Amends n.  make amends (often foll. By for) compensate (for).

Amenity n. (pl. -ies) 1 pleasant or useful feature or facility. 2 pleasantness (of a place etc.). [latin amoenus pleasant]

American —adj. Of america, esp. The united states. —n. 1 native, citizen, or inhabitant of america, esp. The us. 2 english as used in the us.  americanize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [name of navigator amerigo vespucci]

American dream n. Ideal of democracy and prosperity.

American football n. Football evolved from rugby.

American indian see *indian.

Americanism n. Word etc. Of us origin or usage.

Americium n. Artificial radioactive metallic element. [america, where first made]

Amerind adj. & n. (also amerindian) = *american indian (see *indian).

Amethyst n. Semiprecious stone of a violet or purple variety of quartz. [greek, = preventing drunkenness]

Amharic —n. Official and commercial language of ethiopia. —adj. Of this language. [amhara, region of ethiopia]

Amiable adj. (esp. Of a person) friendly and pleasant, likeable.  amiably adv. [latin: related to *amicable] Amiable adj. (esp. Of a person) friendly and pleasant, likeable.  amiably adv. [latin: related to *amicable]

Amicable adj. (esp. Of an arrangement, relations, etc.) Friendly.  amicably adv. [latin amicus friend]

Amid prep. In the middle of, among. [old english: related to *on, *mid]

Amidships adv. In or into the middle of a ship. [from *amid, alternative form midships]

Amidst var. Of *amid.

Amine n. Compound formed from ammonia by replacement of one or more hydrogen atoms by an organic radical or radicals.

Amino acid n. Biochem. Any of a group of nitrogenous organic acids occurring naturally in plant and animal tissues and forming the basic constituents of proteins. [from *amine, *acid]

Amir var. Of *emir.

Amiss —predic. Adj. Wrong, out of order. —adv. Wrong(ly), inappropriately (everything went amiss).  take amiss be offended by. [old norse à mis so as to miss]

Amity n. Friendship. [latin amicus friend]

Ammeter n. Instrument for measuring electric current in amperes. [from *ampere, *-meter]

Ammo n. Slang ammunition. [abbreviation]

Ammonia n. 1 pungent strongly alkaline gas. 2 (in general use) solution of ammonia in water. [as *sal ammoniac]

Ammonite n. Coil-shaped fossil shell. [latin, = horn of jupiter ammon]

Ammunition n. 1 supply of bullets, shells, grenades, etc. 2 information usable in an argument. [french la *munition taken as l'ammu-]

Amnesia n. Loss of memory.  amnesiac n. [latin from greek]

Amnesty —n. (pl. -ies) general pardon, esp. For political offences. —v. (-ies, -ied) grant an amnesty to. [greek amnestia oblivion]

Amniocentesis n. (pl. -teses) sampling of amniotic fluid to detect foetal abnormality. [from *amnion, greek kentesis pricking]

Amnion n. (pl. Amnia) innermost membrane enclosing an embryo.  amniotic adj. [greek, = caul]

Amoeba n. (pl. -s) microscopic aquatic amorphous one-celled organism.  amoebic adj. [greek, = change]

Amok adv.  run amok (or amuck) run wild. [malay]

Among prep. (also amongst) 1 surrounded by, with (lived among the trees; be among friends). 2 included in (among us were dissidents). 3 in the category of (among his best works). 4 a between; shared by (divide it among you). B from the joint resources of (among us we can manage it). 5 with one another (talked among themselves). [old english, = in a crowd]

Amoral adj. 1 beyond morality. 2 without moral principles.

Amorous adj. Of, showing, or feeling sexual love. [latin amor love]

Amorphous adj. 1 of no definite shape. 2 vague. 3 mineral. & chem. Non-crystalline. [greek a- not, morphe form]

Amortize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) gradually extinguish (a debt) by regular instalments. [latin ad mortem to death]

Amount —n. Quantity, esp. A total in number, size, value, extent, etc. —v. (foll. By to) be equivalent to in number, significance, etc. [latin ad montem upward]

Amour n. (esp. Secret) love affair. [french, = love]

Amour propre n. Self-respect. [french]

Amp1 n. Ampere. [abbreviation]

Amp2 n. Colloq. Amplifier. [abbreviation]

Ampelopsis n. (pl. Same) climbing plant related to the vine. [greek ampelos vine, opsis appearance]

Amperage n. Strength of an electric current in amperes.

Ampere n. Si base unit of electric current. [ampère, name of a physicist]

Ampersand n. The sign ‘&’ (= and). [corruption of and *per se and]

Amphetamine n. Synthetic drug used esp. As a stimulant. [abbreviation of chemical name]

Amphibian —adj. Of a class of vertebrates (e.g. Frogs) with an aquatic larval stage followed by a terrestrial adult stage. —n. 1 vertebrate of this class. 2 vehicle able to operate both on land and in water. [greek amphi- both, bios life]

Amphibious adj. 1 living or operating on land and in water. 2 involving military forces landed from the sea.

Amphitheatre n. Esp. Circular unroofed building with tiers of seats surrounding a central space. [greek amphi- round] Amphitheatre n. Esp. Circular unroofed building with tiers of seats surrounding a central space. [greek amphi- round]

Amphora n. (pl. -phorae) narrow-necked greek or roman vessel with two handles. [greek amphoreus]

Ample adj. (ampler, amplest) 1 a plentiful, abundant, extensive. B euphem. Large, stout. 2 more than enough.  amply adv. [latin amplus]

Amplifier n. Electronic device for increasing the strength of electrical signals, esp. For conversion into sound.

Amplify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 increase the strength of (sound, electrical signals, etc.). 2 add detail to, expand (a story etc.).  amplification n. [latin: related to *ample]

Amplitude n. 1 maximum departure from average of an oscillation, alternating current, etc. 2 spaciousness; abundance. [latin: related to *ample]

Amplitude modulation n. Modulation of a wave by variation of its amplitude.

Ampoule n. Small sealed capsule holding a solution for injection. [french: related to *ampulla]

Ampulla n. (pl. -pullae) 1 roman globular flask with two handles. 2 ecclesiastical vessel. [latin]

Amputate v. (-ting) cut off surgically (a limb etc.).  amputation n. Amputee n. [latin amb- about, puto prune]

Amuck var. Of *amok.

Amulet n. Charm worn against evil. [latin]

Amuse v. (-sing) 1 cause to laugh or smile. 2 interest or occupy.  amusing adj. [french a cause to, muser stare]

Amusement n. 1 thing that amuses. 2 being amused. 3 mechanical device (e.g. A roundabout) for entertainment at a fairground etc.

Amusement arcade n. Indoor area with slot-machines.

An see *a1.

An- see *a-.

-an suffix (also -ian) forming adjectives and nouns, esp. From names of places, systems, classes, etc. (mexican; anglican; crustacean). [french -ain, latin -anus]

Anabaptist n. Member of a religious group believing in baptism only of adults. [greek ana again]

Anabolic steroid n. Synthetic steroid hormone used to increase muscle size.

Anabolism n. Synthesis of complex molecules in living organisms from simpler ones together with the storage of energy. [greek anabole ascent]

Anachronism n. 1 a attribution of a custom, event, etc., to the wrong period. B thing thus attributed. 2 out-of-date person or thing.  anachronistic adj. [greek ana- against, khronos time]

Anaconda n. Large non-poisonous snake killing its prey by constriction. [sinhalese]

Anaemia n. (us anemia) deficiency of red blood cells or their haemoglobin, causing pallor and weariness. [greek, = want of blood]

Anaemic adj. (us anemic) 1 of or suffering from anaemia. 2 pale, listless.

Anaesthesia n. (us anes-) absence of sensation, esp. Artificially induced before surgery. [greek]

Anaesthetic (us anes-) —n. Substance producing anaesthesia. —adj. Producing anaesthesia.

Anaesthetist n. (us anes-) specialist in the administration of anaesthetics.

Anaesthetize v. (us anes-) (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) administer an anaesthetic to.

Anagram n. Word or phrase formed by transposing the letters of another. [greek ana again, gramma letter]

Anal adj. Of the anus.

Analgesia n. Absence or relief of pain. [greek]

Analgesic —adj. Relieving pain. —n. Analgesic drug.

Analog n. (brit. Analogue) 1 analogous thing. 2 (attrib.) (usu. Analog) (of a computer etc.) Using physical variables, e.g. Voltage, to represent numbers (cf. *digital).

Analogize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) use, or represent or explain by, analogy.

Analogous adj. (usu. Foll. By to) partially similar or parallel. [greek analogos proportionate]

Analogue n. (us analog) 1 analogous thing. 2 (attrib.) (usu. Analog) (of a computer etc.) Using physical variables, e.g. Voltage, to represent numbers (cf. *digital).

Analogy n. (pl. -ies) 1 correspondence; partial similarity. 2 arguing or reasoning from parallel cases.  analogical adj. [greek analogia proportion] Analogy n. (pl. -ies) 1 correspondence; partial similarity. 2 arguing or reasoning from parallel cases.  analogical adj. [greek analogia proportion]

Analyse v. (us analyze) (-sing or -zing) 1 examine in detail; ascertain the constituents of (a substance, sentence, etc.). 2 psychoanalyse.

Analysis n. (pl. -lyses) 1 a detailed examination of elements or structure. B statement of the result of this. 2 chem. Determination of the constituent parts of a mixture or compound. 3 psychoanalysis. [greek ana up, luo loose]

Analyst n. 1 person skilled in (esp. Chemical or computer) analysis. 2 psychoanalyst.

Analytical adj. (also analytic) of or using analysis.

Analyze n. (brit. Analyse) 1 examine in detail; ascertain the constituents of (a substance, sentence, etc.). 2 psychoanalyse.

Anapaest n. Metrical foot consisting of two short syllables followed by one long syllable (&anapaest.). [greek anapaistos reversed (dactyl)]

Anarchism n. Political theory that all government and laws should be abolished. [french: related to *anarchy]

Anarchist n. Advocate of anarchism.  anarchistic adj.

Anarchy n. Disorder, esp. Political.  anarchic adj. [greek an- without, arkhe rule]

Anathema n. (pl. -s) 1 detested thing (is anathema to me). 2 ecclesiastical curse. [greek, = thing devoted (i.e. To evil)]

Anathematize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) curse.

Anatomy n. (pl. -ies) 1 science of animal or plant structure. 2 such a structure. 3 analysis.  anatomical adj. Anatomist n. [greek ana- up, temno cut]

Anatto var. Of *annatto.

Anc abbr. African national congress.

-ance suffix forming nouns expressing: 1 quality or state or an instance of one (arrogance; resemblance). 2 action (assistance). [french -ance, latin -antia]

Ancestor n. 1 person, animal, or plant from which another has descended or evolved. 2 prototype or forerunner. [latin ante- before, cedo go]

Ancestral adj. Belonging to or inherited from one's ancestors.

Ancestry n. (pl. -ies) 1 family descent, lineage. 2 ancestors collectively.

Anchor —n. 1 heavy metal weight used to moor a ship or a balloon. 2 stabilizing thing. —v. 1 secure with an anchor. 2 fix firmly. 3 cast anchor. 4 be moored by an anchor. [greek agkura]

Anchorage n. 1 place for anchoring. 2 anchoring or lying at anchor.

Anchorite n. Hermit; religious recluse. [greek anakhoreo retire]

Anchorman n. Coordinator, esp. As compère in a broadcast.

Anchovy n. (pl. -ies) small strong-flavoured fish of the herring family. [spanish and portuguese anchova]

Ancien régime n. (pl. Anciens régimes pronunc. Same) 1 political and social system of pre-revolutionary (before 1787) france. 2 any superseded regime. [french, = old rule]

Ancient adj. 1 of long ago, esp. Before the fall of the roman empire in the west. 2 having lived or existed long.  the ancients people of ancient times, esp. The greeks and romans. [latin ante before]

Ancillary —adj. 1 (esp. Of health workers) providing essential support. 2 (often foll. By to) subordinate, subservient. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 ancillary worker. 2 auxiliary or accessory. [latin ancilla handmaid]

-ancy suffix forming nouns denoting a quality (constancy) or state (infancy). [latin -antia]

And conj. 1 a connecting words, clauses, or sentences, to be taken jointly (you and i). B implying progression (better and better). C implying causation (she hit him and he cried). D implying great duration (cried and cried). E implying a great number (miles and miles). F implying addition (two and two). G implying variety (there are books and books). 2 colloq. To (try and come). 3 in relation to (britain and the ec).  and/or either or both of two stated alternatives. [old english]

Andante mus. —adv. & adj. In a moderately slow tempo. —n. Such a passage or movement. [italian, = going]

Andiron n. Metal stand (usu. One of a pair) for supporting logs in a fireplace. [french andier] Andiron n. Metal stand (usu. One of a pair) for supporting logs in a fireplace. [french andier]

Androgynous adj. 1 hermaphrodite. 2 bot. With stamens and pistils in the same flower. [greek aner andr- man, gune woman]

Android n. Robot with a human appearance. [greek aner andr- man, *-oid]

Anecdote n. Short, esp. True, account or story.  anecdotal adj. [greek anekdota things unpublished]

Anemia n. (brit. Anaemia) deficiency of red blood cells or their haemoglobin, causing pallor and weariness. [greek, = want of blood]

Anemic adj. (brit. Anaemic) 1 of or suffering from anemia. 2 pale, listless.

Anemometer n. Instrument for measuring wind force. [greek anemos wind]

Anemone n. Plant of the buttercup family, with vividly-coloured flowers. [greek, = wind-flower]

Aneroid —adj. (of a barometer) measuring air-pressure by its action on the lid of a box containing a vacuum. —n. Aneroid barometer. [greek a- not, neros water]

Anesthesia n. (brit. Anaes-) absence of sensation, esp. Artificially induced before surgery. [greek]

Anesthetic (brit. Anaes-)—n. Substance producing anesthesia. —adj.producing anesthesia

Aneurysm n. (also aneurism) excessive localized enlargement of an artery. [greek aneuruno widen]

Anew adv. 1 again. 2 in a different way. [earlier of newe]

Angel n. 1 a attendant or messenger of god. B representation of this in human form with wings. 2 virtuous or obliging person. 3 slang financial backer of a play etc. [greek aggelos messenger]

Angel cake n. Light sponge cake.

Angel-fish n. Fish with winglike fins.

Angelic adj. Of or like an angel.  angelically adv.

Angelica n. Aromatic plant or its candied stalks. [medieval latin, = angelic (herb)]

Angelus n. 1 roman catholic prayers commemorating the incarnation, said at morning, noon, and sunset. 2 bell announcing this. [latin angelus domini (= the angel of the lord), opening words]

Anger —n. Extreme or passionate displeasure. —v. Make angry. [old norse angr grief]

Angina n. (in full angina pectoris) chest pain brought on by exertion, caused by an inadequate blood supply to the heart. [greek agkhone strangling]

Angiosperm n. Plant producing flowers and reproducing by seeds enclosed within a carpel, including herbaceous plants, grasses, and most trees. [greek aggeion vessel]

Angle n. (usu. In pl.) Member of a n. German tribe that settled in e. Britain in the 5th c. [latin anglus, from the name angul in germany]

Angle1 —n. 1 space between two meeting lines or surfaces, esp. As measured in degrees. 2 corner. 3 point of view. —v. (-ling) 1 move or place obliquely. 2 present (information) in a biased way. [latin angulus]

Angle2 v. (-ling) 1 fish with hook and line. 2 (foll. By for) seek an objective indirectly (angled for a loan).  angler n. [old english]

Anglican —adj. Of the church of england. —n. Member of the anglican church.  anglicanism n. [latin anglicanus: related to *angle]

Anglicism n. Peculiarly english word or custom. [latin anglicus: related to *angle]

Anglicize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make english in character etc.

Anglo- comb. Form 1 english. 2 of english origin. 3 english or british and. [latin: related to *angle]

Anglo-catholic —adj. Of a high church anglican wing emphasizing its catholic tradition. —n. Member of this group.

Anglo-french —adj. English (or british) and french. —n. French language as developed in england after the norman conquest.

Anglo-indian —adj. 1 of england and india. 2 of british descent but indian residence. —n. Anglo-indian person.

Anglo-norman —adj. English and norman. —n. Norman dialect used in england after the norman conquest.

Anglophile n. Person who greatly admires england or the english.

Anglo-saxon —adj. 1 of the english saxons before the norman conquest. 2 of english descent. —n. 1 anglo-saxon person. 2 old english. 3 colloq. Plain (esp. Crude) english. Angora n. 1 fabric or wool from the hair of the angora goat or rabbit. 2 long-haired variety of cat, goat, or rabbit. [angora (= ankara) in turkey]

Angostura n. Aromatic bitter bark used as a flavouring. [angostura (= ciudad bolívar) in venezuela]

Angry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 feeling, showing, or suggesting anger (angry sky). 2 (of a wound etc.) Inflamed, painful.  angrily adv.

Angst n. Anxiety, neurotic fear; guilt, remorse. [german]

Angstrom n. Unit of length equal to 10-10 metre. [ångström, name of a physicist]

Anguish n. 1 severe mental suffering. 2 pain, agony.  anguished adj. [latin angustia tightness]

Angular adj. 1 having sharp corners or (of a person) features. 2 forming an angle. 3 measured by angle (angular distance).  angularity n. [latin: related to *angle1]

Anhydrous adj. Chem. Without water, esp. Water of crystallization. [greek an- without, hudor water]

Aniline n. Colourless oily liquid used in making dyes, drugs, and plastics. [german anil indigo, former source]

Animadvert v. (foll. By on) literary criticize, censure.  animadversion n. [latin animus mind, *adverse]

Animal —n. 1 living organism, esp. Other than man, which feeds and usu. Has sense-organs and a nervous system and can move quickly. 2 brutish person. —adj. 1 of or like an animal. 2 bestial; carnal. [latin animalis having breath]

Animalism n. 1 nature and activity of animals. 2 belief that humans are mere animals.

Animality n. 1 the animal world. 2 animal behaviour.

Animalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make (a person) bestial, sensualize.

Animate —adj. 1 having life. 2 lively. —v. (-ting) 1 enliven. 2 give life to. [latin anima breath]

Animated adj. 1 lively, vigorous. 2 having life. 3 (of a film etc.) Using animation.

Animation n. 1 vivacity, ardour. 2 being alive. 3 technique of producing a moving picture from a sequence of drawings or puppet poses etc.

Animism n. Belief that inanimate and natural phenomena have souls.  animist n. Animistic adj.

Animosity n. (pl. -ies) spirit or feeling of hostility. [latin: related to *animus]

Animus n. Animosity, ill feeling. [latin, = spirit, mind]

Anion n. Negatively charged ion.  anionic adj. [greek ana up, *ion]

Anise n. Plant with aromatic seeds. [greek anison]

Aniseed n. Seed of the anise, used for flavouring.

Ankle n. 1 joint connecting the foot with the leg. 2 this part of the leg. [old norse]

Anklet n. Ornament or fetter worn round the ankle.

Ankylosis n. Stiffening of a joint by fusion of the bones. [greek agkulos crooked]

Annals n.pl. 1 narrative of events year by year. 2 historical records.  annalist n. [latin annus year]

Annatto n. (also anatto) orange-red dye from the pulp of a tropical fruit, used for colouring foods. [carib name of the fruit-tree]

Anneal v. Heat (metal or glass) and cool slowly, esp. To toughen it. [old english ælan bake]

Annelid n. Segmented worm, e.g. The earthworm. [latin anulus ring]

Annex v. 1 (often foll. By to) add as a subordinate part. 2 incorporate (territory) into one's own. 3 add as a condition or consequence. 4 colloq. Take without right.  annexation n. [latin necto bind]

Annexe n. 1 separate or added building. 2 addition to a document.

Annihilate v. (-ting) completely destroy or defeat.  annihilation n. [latin nihil nothing]

Anniversary n. (pl. -ies) 1 date of an event in a previous year. 2 celebration of this. [latin annus year, verto vers- turn]

Anno domini adv. Years after christ's birth. [latin, = in the year of the lord]

Annotate v. (-ting) add explanatory notes to.  annotation n. [latin nota mark] Announce v. (-cing) 1 make publicly known. 2 make known the arrival or imminence of (a guest, dinner, etc.). 3 be a sign of.  announcement n. [latin nuntius messenger]

Announcer n. Person who announces, esp. In broadcasting.

Annoy v. 1 (often in passive) anger or distress slightly (am annoyed with you). 2 molest, harass.  annoyance n. [latin in odio hateful]

Annual —adj. 1 reckoned by the year. 2 occurring yearly. 3 living or lasting (only) a year. —n. 1 book etc. Published yearly. 2 plant that lives only a year.  annually adv. [latin annus year]

Annualized adj. (of rates of interest etc.) Calculated on an annual basis, as a projection from figures obtained for a shorter period.

Annuity n. (pl. -ies) 1 yearly grant or allowance. 2 investment yielding a fixed annual sum.

Annul v. (-ll-) 1 declare invalid. 2 cancel, abolish.  annulment n. [latin nullus none]

Annular adj. Ring-shaped. [latin anulus ring]

Annular eclipse n. Solar eclipse in which a ring of light remains visible.

Annulate adj. Marked with or formed of rings.

Annunciation n. 1 announcement, esp. (annunciation) that made by the angel gabriel to mary. 2 festival of this. [latin: related to *announce]

Anode n. Positive electrode in an electrolytic cell etc. [greek anodos way up]

Anodize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) coat (metal) with a protective layer by electrolysis.

Anodyne —adj. 1 pain-relieving. 2 mentally soothing. —n. Anodyne drug etc. [greek an- without, odune pain]

Anoint v. 1 apply oil or ointment to, esp. Ritually. 2 (usu. Foll. By with) smear. [latin inungo anoint]

Anomalous adj. Irregular, deviant, abnormal. [greek an- not, homalos even]

Anomaly n. (pl. -ies) anomalous thing; irregularity.

Anon adv. Archaic soon, shortly. [old english on an into one]

Anon. Abbr. Anonymous.

Anonymous adj. 1 of unknown name or authorship. 2 without character; featureless.  anonymity n. [greek an- without, onoma name]

Anorak n. Waterproof usu. Hooded jacket. [eskimo]

Anorexia n. Lack of appetite, esp. (in full anorexia nervosa) an obsessive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat.  anorexic adj. & n. [greek an- without, orexis appetite]

Another —adj. 1 an additional; one more (another cake). 2 person like (another hitler). 3 a different (another matter). 4 some other (another man's work). —pron. Additional, other, or different person or thing. [earlier an other]

Answer —n. 1 something said or done in reaction to a question, statement, or circumstance. 2 solution to a problem. —v. 1 make an answer or response (to) (answer the door). 2 suit (a purpose or need). 3 (foll. By to, for) be responsible (you will answer to me for your conduct). 4 (foll. By to) correspond, esp. To a description.  answer back answer insolently. [old english, = swear against (a charge)]

Answerable adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By to, for) responsible (answerable to them for any accident). 2 that can be answered.

Answering machine n. Tape recorder which answers telephone calls and takes messages.

Answerphone n. = *answering machine.

Ant n. Small usu. Wingless insect living in complex social colonies and proverbial for industry. [old english]

-ant suffix 1 forming adjectives denoting attribution of an action (repentant) or state (arrogant). 2 forming agent nouns (assistant). [latin -ant-, present participial stem of verbs]

Antacid —adj. Preventing or correcting acidity. —n. Antacid agent.

Antagonism n. Active hostility. [french: related to *agony]

Antagonist n. Opponent or adversary.  antagonistic adj.

Antagonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make hostile; provoke.

Antarctic —adj. Of the south polar regions. —n. This region. [latin: related to *arctic]

Antarctic circle n. Parallel of latitude 66° 32´ s., forming an imaginary line round the antarctic region. Ante —n. 1 stake put up by a player in poker etc. Before receiving cards. 2 amount payable in advance. —v. (-tes, -ted) 1 put up as an ante. 2 us a bet, stake. B (foll. By up) pay.

Ante- prefix before, preceding. [latin, = before]

Anteater n. Any of various mammals feeding on ants and termites.

Antecedent —n. 1 preceding thing or circumstance. 2 gram. Word or phrase etc. To which another word (esp. A relative pronoun) refers. 3 (in pl.) Person's past history or ancestors. —adj. Previous. [latin cedo go]

Antechamber n. Ante-room.

Antedate v. (-ting) 1 precede in time. 2 assign an earlier than actual date to.

Antediluvian adj. 1 of the time before the flood. 2 colloq. Very old or out of date. [from *ante-, latin diluvium deluge]

Antelope n. (pl. Same or -s) swift-moving deerlike ruminant, e.g. The gazelle and gnu. [greek antholops]

Antenatal adj. 1 before birth. 2 of pregnancy.

Antenna n. 1 (pl. -tennae) each of a pair of feelers on the heads of insects, crustaceans, etc. 2 (pl. -s) = *aerial n. [latin, = sail-yard]

Antepenultimate adj. Last but two.

Ante-post adj. (of betting) done at odds determined at the time of betting, in advance of the event concerned. [from *ante-, *post1]

Anterior adj. 1 nearer the front. 2 (often foll. By to) prior. [latin from ante before]

Ante-room n. Small room leading to a main one.

Anthem n. 1 elaborate choral composition usu. Based on a passage of scripture. 2 solemn hymn of praise etc., esp. = *national anthem. [latin: related to *antiphon]

Anther n. Part of a stamen containing pollen. [greek anthos flower]

Anthill n. Moundlike nest built by ants or termites.

Anthology n. (pl. -ies) collection of poems, essays, stories, etc.  anthologist n. [greek anthos flower, -logia collection]

Anthracite n. Hard type of coal burning with little flame and smoke. [greek: related to *anthrax]

Anthrax n. Disease of sheep and cattle transmissible to humans. [greek, = coal, carbuncle]

Anthropocentric adj. Regarding mankind as the centre of existence. [greek anthropos man]

Anthropoid —adj. Human in form. —n. Anthropoid ape.

Anthropology n. The study of mankind, esp. Its societies and customs.  anthropological adj. Anthropologist n.

Anthropomorphism n. Attribution of human characteristics to a god, animal, or thing.  anthropomorphic adj. [greek morphe form]

Anthropomorphous adj. Human in form.

Anti —prep. Opposed to. —n. (pl. -s) person opposed to a policy etc.

Anti- prefix 1 opposed to (anticlerical). 2 preventing (antifreeze). 3 opposite of (anticlimax). 4 unconventional (anti-hero). [greek]

Anti-abortion adj. Opposing abortion.  anti-abortionist n.

Anti-aircraft adj. (of a gun or missile) used to attack enemy aircraft.

Antibiotic —n. Substance (e.g. Penicillin) that can inhibit or destroy susceptible micro-organisms. —adj. Functioning as an antibiotic. [greek bios life]

Antibody n. (pl. -ies) a blood protein produced in response to and then counteracting antigens. [translation of german antikörper]

Antic n. (usu. In pl.) Foolish behaviour or action. [italian antico *antique]

Antichrist n. Enemy of christ.  antichristian adj.

Anticipate v. (-ting) 1 deal with or use before the proper time. 2 expect, foresee (did not anticipate a problem). 3 forestall (a person or thing). 4 look forward to.  anticipation n. Anticipatory adj. [latin anti- before, capio take]

Usage the use of anticipate in sense 2, ‘expect’, ‘foresee’, is well-established in informal use, but is regarded as incorrect by some people.

Anticlerical adj. Opposed to clerical influence, esp. In politics.

Anticlimax n. Disappointingly trivial conclusion to something significant.

Anticlockwise adj. & adv. Moving in a curve opposite in direction to the hands of a clock. Anticyclone n. System of winds rotating outwards from an area of high pressure, producing fine weather.

Antidepressant —n. Drug etc. That alleviates depression. —adj. Alleviating depression.

Antidote n. 1 medicine etc. Used to counteract poison. 2 anything counteracting something unpleasant. [greek antidotos given against]

Antifreeze n. Substance added to water to lower its freezing point, esp. In a vehicle's radiator.

Antigen n. Foreign substance (e.g. Toxin) which causes the body to produce antibodies. [greek -genes of a kind]

Anti-hero n. (pl. -es) central character in a story, lacking conventional heroic qualities.

Antihistamine n. Drug that counteracts the effects of histamine, used esp. In treating allergies.

Antiknock n. Substance added to motor fuel to prevent premature combustion.

Anti-lock attrib. Adj. (of brakes) set up so as to prevent locking and skidding when applied suddenly.

Antilog n. Colloq. = *antilogarithm. [abbreviation]

Antilogarithm n. Number to which a logarithm belongs.

Antimacassar n. Detachable protective cloth for the back of a chair etc.

Antimatter n. Matter composed solely of antiparticles.

Antimony n. Brittle silvery metallic element used esp. In alloys. [medieval latin]

Antinomian —adj. Believing that christians need not obey the moral law. —n. (antinomian) hist. Person believing this. [greek nomos law]

Antinomy n. (pl. -ies) contradiction between two reasonable beliefs or conclusions.

Antinovel n. Novel avoiding the conventions of the form.

Anti-nuclear adj. Opposed to the development of nuclear weapons or power.

Antiparticle n. Elementary particle with the same mass but opposite charge etc. To another particle.

Antipathy n. (pl. -ies) (often foll. By to, for, between) strong aversion or dislike.  antipathetic adj. [greek: related to *pathetic]

Antiperspirant n. Substance preventing or reducing perspiration.

OH antichrist thats such a good one !! 10/10 word !

[autodaemonium]

əævgkkrdəɛomtnmhktʃnɪ

Pronounced: uhavgkkrduhayomtnmhktshni.

Pantheon of: thoughtfulness, inelegance, chemical phenomenon, quality, psychic energy, painfulness, romanticism, pride, concentration, inhumaneness.

Entities

Brwʃslbʌulɛlptɑbæɛsn

Pronounced: brwshslbuulaylptahbaaysn Concentration: molality. Inhumaneness: atrocity. Thoughtfulness: pensiveness. Psychic Energy: libidinal energy. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: allotropy. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: tweediness. Quality: wholesomeness. Legends: saber rattling, underexposure, transurethral resection of the prostate. Prophecies: insurgency. Relations: ɒdʒmðtmɑtpɪɛosmnktʃslə (filter paper), pʌɑəsndəaɪdɑænodnveər (immunoglobulin m).

Iwldɑpsiononɛuðəewtʌ

Pronounced: iwldahpsiononayuthuhewtu Concentration: molality. Inhumaneness: mercilessness. Thoughtfulness: pensiveness. Psychic Energy: incitement. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: allotropy. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: crudeness. Quality: inhumaneness. Legends: joyride, bisection. Prophecies: eurythmy, tirade, rinse, portfolio, miscalculation. Relations: pʌɑəsndəaɪdɑænodnveər (endowment insurance), ɒrdlzɪmskkllrɑrʊnnər (black locust), ɒdʒmðtmɑtpɪɛosmnktʃslə (stearin).

Lnæwŋdthbrmdɑrpiɒɪiɪ

Pronounced: lnawngdthbrmdahrpiouiii Concentration: molarity. Inhumaneness: atrocity. Thoughtfulness: deliberation. Psychic Energy: libidinal energy. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: valency. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: crudeness. Quality: logicality. Legends: skateboarding, aggression, countercurrent, deck tennis, augury. Prophecies: market gardening, retraction, shrilling. Relations: pʌɑəsndəaɪdɑænodnveər (uric acid), ɒdʒmðtmɑtpɪɛosmnktʃslə (sodium chloride), ɪəvnuʌywlbəiwəlttzti (burgundy), iwldɑpsiononɛuðəewtʌ (heartwood).

Pʌɑəsndəaɪdɑænodnveər

Pronounced: puahuhsnduhaidahanodnveuhr Concentration: molality. Inhumaneness: atrocity. Thoughtfulness: reflectiveness. Psychic Energy: libidinal energy. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: crystallization. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: coarseness. Quality: originality. Prophecies: exchange, snap roll, sigh, partial verdict. Relations: iwldɑpsiononɛuðəewtʌ (modifier), ɒdʒmðtmɑtpɪɛosmnktʃslə (chrysoprase), brwʃslbʌulɛlptɑbæɛsn (eosin), ɪəvnuʌywlbəiwəlttzti (prothrombin).

Ɒdʒmðtmɑtpɪɛosmnktʃslə

Pronounced: oujmthtmahtpiayosmnktshsluh Concentration: molality. Inhumaneness: mercilessness. Thoughtfulness: pensiveness. Psychic Energy: incitement. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: state of matter. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: awkwardness. Quality: penetrability. Prophecies: visit, had crime, virginia reel, observation, creating by removal. Relations: ɪəvnuʌywlbəiwəlttzti (phoneme).

Ɒrdlzɪmskkllrɑrʊnnər

Pronounced: ourdlzimskkllrahroonnuhr Concentration: hydrogen ion concentration. Inhumaneness: bestiality. Thoughtfulness: introspectiveness. Psychic Energy: libidinal energy. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: valency. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: awkwardness. Quality: fidelity. Legends: audition, pushball, grand national. Prophecies: reservation, self-assertion, white man's burden, duel, unobserved fire. Relations: ɪəvnuʌywlbəiwəlttzti (centrality), brwʃslbʌulɛlptɑbæɛsn (constructive trust).

Ɪəvnuʌywlbəiwəlttzti

Pronounced: iuhvnuuywlbuhiwuhlttzti Concentration: hydrogen ion concentration. Inhumaneness: mercilessness. Thoughtfulness: pensiveness. Psychic Energy: libidinal energy. Painfulness: sharpness. Chemical Phenomenon: crystallization. Romanticism: stardust. Inelegance: dowdiness. Quality: inability. Legends: output, struggle, vexatious litigation, detraction, spot check. Prophecies: escape, seating, stakeout.

[mugasofer]

Quickly sketching out a setting:

The Fire Age

Most cultures possess Ash Mages; that is, Carbonmancers (in modern terms) who have awakened to the first allotrope using high-purity charcoal. The ability to channel fire under normal atmospheric conditions was historically extremely valuable, as was the ability to track game by sensing highly bioavailable carbon, and to a lesser extent the ability to hide; the Fire, Life, and Dark channels have been wielded extensively by almost every human culture. The Fire Age largely takes its name from these early channelers, whose power both came from and made more readily available the power of fire.

Presumably there have also been exceptional individuals who stumbled upon and awakened to those elements which are present in raw form on occasion throughout prehistory, but no definitive examples have been proven prior to the Metal Age.

The Metal Age

Early human mining efforts ushered in what is commonly known as the Metal Age. 

The second and third forms of power a Carbonmancer could awaken to were discovered here, both gifted with the defensive Stone channel - Coal Mages (not always clearly distinguished from Ash Mages historically), and a little later, the much more powerful Adamants (whose Refract channel was historically considered a more powerful version of the Dark channel.) Access to diamonds and the resulting Adamants was a major factor historically, although the generalised concept of allotropy extending to other elements was not discovered until the modern age. 

Importantly, a number of metals were also discovered by many cultures during this era, before the advent of written history: Copper Mages, Lead Mages, Gold Mages, and Silver Mages all became fairly common. A small number of Iron Mages are also known to have existed, using rare meteoric or telluric iron. In addition to, to varying degrees, the standard metal channels (Stone, Bend, Mirror, Chill/Warm; the Electric channel would not be understood for some time), Lead introduced the Death channel, Copper and Iron the Pull channel, Silver and to a lesser extent Copper the Purity channel, and Gold the Immortal channel.

The earliest Sulphur Mages are also thought to have begun in this age (possibly even earlier in regions with substantial sulphur deposits), employing their unique blend of Life, Death, and Purity channelling, although the more advanced allotropic techniques were not discovered until much later.

The Historical Age

The Historical, Classical, or Civilized Age is marked by the introduction of smelting, farming, and writing.

Iron Mages became commonplace around the beginning of this Age with the introduction of smelting, alongside Tin and Bismuth Mages. Over the course of this era Platinum (c. 600 BC – AD 200), Mercury (c. 1500 BC), Antimony (c. 1000 BC), Arsenic (c. AD 300), and Zinc Mages (c. 1000 BC - 1300 AD). The Death channel became more common, and the Water channel was introduced by the discovery of Mercury.

While the concept of alloying channels had been known since the early Metal Age, it was during this era that more complex alchemical rituals were discovered for the first time.

The Scientific Age

Also known as the Early Modern, Reason, or Industrial age, the Scientific Age was marked by the scientific method and we have much clearer historical records (including, for example, knowing the specific discoverers of most elements.)

The elements discovered in the Early Modern age are too numerous to list here, but notable among them are Phosphorus (the first Light channel), Hydrogen (the first Air channel), Uranium (the first Radiation channel), the considerable advances in Fire channelling represented by Sodium, Fluorine and Oxygen Mages, and the advances in Death channelling represented by the increasingly-toxic elements isolated during this era. Also notable are the discovery that the Electric channel allowed the manipulation of electricity, dramatically improved understanding of the Life channel and its applications, the increasingly clear recognition that no one channel was inherently limited to a single element, and the development of the periodic table.

The Modern Age

The precise beginning of the Modern Age is often debated, but is typically dated from the discovery of the first synthetic elemental school synthesised through nuclear processes, rather than being isolated from the natural world -  Radonmancers, Technetiumancers, or Curiumancers depending on one's precise definition. 

Although a large number of new elements have been successfully synthesised in the Modern Age, none have displayed any truly novel channels, and many have proven difficult to wield due to a short half-life. The discovery of several new fullerene allotropes of carbon in the Modern Age is notable for its impact on Carbon Mages, however.

The Seventeen Channels

Reactivity: Fire (high; can include reactions other than the exothermic) or Immortal (low). (Non-exothermic reactions are sometimes termed Acid channels, although this is somewhat misleading.)

Optical: Dark (low reflectivity), Mirror (high reflectivity), Refract (transparent), Light (luminescence).

Biological properties: Life (present in living things, necessary for life, moves around a lot), Death (toxic), Purity (toxic to microorganisms but not humans - not really distinct but considered so for historical reasons)

Rigidity/Toughness: Stone (high), Bend (medium). Exact details will vary depending on exact properties. Crumbling under pressure is not something you want to channel.

Phase of matter: aside from solids as covered above, Water (liquid) and Air (gas). (Some overlap with Life, via sensing motion, although sensing the movements of e.g. xenon is less immediately useful.) Dependent on temperature and pressure, which in a few elements can allow for different channels under different (but non-fatal) conditions.

Conductivity: Warm/Chill (thermal), Electric (electrical). Low conductivity can be useful for Stone channelling. Related: Pull (magnetic permeability).

Radioactivity: Radiation. High-density Stone channels can be protective. Elements with a short half-life become increasingly difficult to channel period.

I understand why alchemists invented, and modern fiction writers use, systems with a few understandable Elements like Earth / Fire / Air / Water / Light / Dark.

I understand why even most nerds don't bother to study the Elements in real life. There's too many of them, and they don't neatly correspond to meaningful aspects of macro-level existence.

But just once I'd like to read a worked magical system where the author has looked up the properties of the real Elements, has put in all the work to build up a system of plausible-sounding correspondences, and the protagonist is a rare dual-element Tellurium-Iodine wizard.

[zef-zef]

Album Art for:

Chris & Cosey - Allotropy (Staaltape, 1987)