per·form·ance ( p…r-fôr"m…ns) n. 1. The act of performing or the state of being performed. 2. The act or style of performing a work or role before an audience. 3. The way in which someone or something functions: The pilot rated the airplane's performance in high winds. 4. A presentation, especially a theatrical one, before an audience. 5. Something performed; an accomplishment.

lu·cra·tive ( l›"kr…-t¹v) adj. 1. Producing wealth; profitable: a lucrative income; a lucrative marketing strategy. [Middle English lucratif from Old French from Latin lucr³tºvus from lucr³tus,past participle of lucr³rºto profit from lucrum profit; See lau- in Indo-European Roots.]

lau- . An important derivative is: lucrative Gain, profit. I. 1. Suffixed form *lau-no- . GUERDON , from Old High German l ½n, reward from Germanic *launam . 2. Suffixed zero-grade form *lu-tlo- . LUCRATIVE , LUCRE , from Latin lucrum , gain, profit. [ Pokorny l ³u- 655. ]

stab ( st²b) v. stabbed stab·bing stabs v. tr. 1. To pierce or wound with or as if with a pointed weapon. 2. To plunge (a pointed weapon or instrument) into something. 3. To make a thrusting or poking motion at or into: stabbed the air with his fingers. v. intr. 1. To thrust with or as if with a pointed weapon: stabbed at the food with her fork. 2. To inflict a wound with or as if with a pointed weapon. n. 1. A thrust with a pointed weapon or instrument. 2. A wound inflicted with or as if with a pointed weapon. 3. A sudden piercing pain. 4. An attempt; a try: made a stab at the answer.

Idioms: stab (someone) in the back 1. To harm (someone) by treachery or betrayal of trust. [Middle English stabben] stab "ber n.

sta·ble 2 ( st³"b…l) n. 1. a. A building for the shelter and feeding of domestic animals, especially horses and cattle. b. A group of animals lodged in such a building. 2. a. All the racehorses belonging to a single owner or racing establishment. See note at flock 1 . b. The personnel employed to keep and train such a group of racehorses. 3. A group, as of athletes, under common management, authority, or ownership: a stable of prizefighters. v. sta·bled sta·bling sta·bles v. tr. 1. To put or keep in or as if in a stable. v. intr. 1. To live in or as if in a stable. [Middle English from Old French estable from Latin stabulum stable, standing place; See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

stack ( st²k) n. 1. A large, usually conical pile of straw or fodder arranged for outdoor storage. 2. An orderly pile, especially one arranged in layers. See note at heap . 3. Computer Science A section of memory and its associated registers used for temporary storage of information in which the item most recently stored is the first to be retrieved. 4. A group of three rifles supporting each other, butt downward and forming a cone. 5. a. A chimney or flue. b. A group of chimneys arranged together. 6. A vertical exhaust pipe, as on a ship or locomotive. 7. Often stacks a. An extensive arrangement of bookshelves. b. The area of a library in which most of the books are shelved. 8. A stackup. 9. An English measure of coal or cut wood, equal to 108 cubic feet (3.06 cubic meters). 10. Informal A large quantity: a stack of work to do. v. stacked stack·ing stacks v. tr. 1. To arrange in a stack; pile. 2. To load or cover with stacks or piles: stacked the dishwasher. 3. a. Games To prearrange the order of (a deck of cards) so as to increase the chance of winning. b. To prearrange or fix unfairly so as to favor a particular outcome: tried to stack the jury. 4. To direct (aircraft) to circle at different altitudes while waiting to land. v. intr. 1. To form a stack.

Phrasal Verbs: stack up Informal 1. To measure up or equal: Their gift doesn't stack up against his. 2. To make sense; add up: Her report just doesn't stack up. [Middle English stac from Old Norse stakkr] stack "a·ble adj. stack "er n.

staff 1 ( st²f) n. pl. staffs or staves ( st³vz) 1. a. A stick or cane carried as an aid in walking or climbing. b. A stout stick used as a weapon; a cudgel. c. A pole on which a flag is displayed; a flagstaff. d. A rod or baton carried as a symbol of authority. 2. pl. staffs A rule or similar graduated stick used for testing or measuring, as in surveying. 3. pl. staffs a. A group of assistants to a manager, an executive, or another person in authority. b. A group of military officers assigned to assist a commanding officer in an executive or advisory capacity. c. The personnel who carry out a specific enterprise: the nursing staff of a hospital. 4. Something that serves as a staple or support. 5. Music A set of five horizontal lines and four intermediate spaces used in notation to represent a sequence of pitches. In this sense, also called stave . v. tr. staffed staff·ing staffs 1. To provide with a staff of workers or assistants. 2. To serve on the staff of. [Middle English staf from Old English stæf]

stag ( st²g) n. 1. The adult male of various deer, especially the red deer. 2. An animal, especially a pig, castrated after reaching sexual maturity. 3. a. A man who attends a social gathering unaccompanied by a woman. b. A woman who attends a social gathering unaccompanied by a man. 4. A social gathering for men only. adj. 1. Of or for men only: a stag party. 2. Pornographic: stag films. adv. 1. Unaccompanied: went to the dance stag. v. intr. stagged stag·ging stags 1. To attend a social gathering unaccompanied by a woman. 2. To attend a social gathering unaccompanied by a man. [Middle English stagge from Old English stagga; See stegh- in Indo-European Roots.]

stain ( st³n) v. stained stain·ing stains v. tr. 1. To discolor, soil, or spot. 2. To bring into disrepute; taint or tarnish. 3. To color (glass, for example) with a coat of penetrating liquid dye or tint. 4. To treat (specimens for the microscope) with a reagent or dye that makes visible certain structures without affecting others. v. intr. 1. To produce or receive discolorations. n. 1. A discolored or soiled spot or smudge. 2. A blemish on one's moral character or reputation. 3. A liquid substance applied especially to wood that penetrates the surface and imparts a rich color. 4. A reagent or dye used for staining microscopic specimens. [Middle English steinen partly from Old French desteindre desteign-to deprive of color( des- dis-) (Latin tingere tºnct-to dye) and partly from Old Norse steina to paint] stain "a·ble adj. stain "er n.

Synonyms: stain blot brand stigma taint The central meaning shared by these nouns is " a mark of discredit or disgrace, as on one's good name ": a stain on his honor; the blot of treason; the brand of cowardice; the stigma of ignominious defeat; the taint of vice.

stalk 2 ( stôk) v. stalked stalk·ing stalks v. intr. 1. To walk with a stiff, haughty, or angry gait: stalked off in a huff. 2. To move threateningly or menacingly. 3. To track prey or quarry. v. tr. 1. To pursue by tracking stealthily. 2. To go through (an area) in pursuit of prey or quarry. [Middle English stalken from Old English -stealcian to move stealthily( in bestealcian) ] stalk "er n.

stall 1 ( stôl) n. 1. A compartment for one domestic animal in a barn or shed. 2. a. A booth, cubicle, or stand used by a vendor, as at a market. b. A small compartment: a shower stall. 3. a. An enclosed seat in the chancel of a church. b. A pew in a church. 4. Chiefly British A seat in the front part of a theater. 5. A space marked off, as in a garage, for parking a motor vehicle. 6. A protective sheath for a finger or toe. 7. The sudden, unintended loss of power or effectiveness in an engine. 8. A condition in which an aircraft or airfoil experiences an interruption of airflow resulting in loss of lift and a tendency to drop. v. stalled stall·ing stalls v. tr. 1. To put or lodge in a stall. 2. To maintain in a stall for fattening: to stall cattle. 3. To check the motion or progress of; bring to a standstill. 4. To cause (an engine) accidentally to stop running. 5. To cause (an aircraft) to go into a stall. v. intr. 1. To live or be lodged in a stall. Used of an animal. 2. To stick fast in mud or snow. 3. To come to a standstill: Negotiations stalled. 4. To stop running as a result of mechanical failure: The car stalled on the freeway. 5. To lose forward flying speed, causing a stall. Used of an aircraft. [Middle English stalle from Old English steall standing place, stable; See stel- in Indo-European Roots.]

stall 2 ( stôl) n. 1. A ruse or tactic used to mislead or delay. v. stalled stall·ing stalls v. tr. 1. To employ delaying tactics against: stall off creditors. v. intr. 1. To employ delaying tactics: stalling for time. [Alteration( influenced by stall 1 ) of obsolete stale pickpocket's accomplice from Middle English decoy from Anglo-Norman estale of Germanic origin possibly akin to Old English stÆl, stathol place, position; See staddle ]

stamp ( st²mp) v. stamped stamp·ing stamps v. tr. 1. To bring down (the foot) forcibly. 2. To bring the foot down onto (an object or a surface) forcibly. 3. To extinguish or destroy by or as if by trampling underfoot: stamped the rebellion; stamp out a fire. 4. To crush or grind with a heavy instrument: stamp ore. 5. To form or cut out by application of a mold, form, or die. 6. To imprint or impress with a mark, design, or seal. 7. To impress forcibly or permanently. 8. To affix an adhesive stamp to. 9. To identify, characterize, or reveal: stamped her a traitor to the cause. v. intr. 1. To thrust the foot forcibly downward. 2. To walk with forcible, heavy steps. See note at stomp . n. 1. The act of stamping. 2. a. An implement or a device used to impress, cut out, or shape something to which it is applied. b. An impression or a shape formed by such an implement or device. See note at impression . 3. An official mark, design, or seal that indicates ownership, approval, completion, or the payment of a tax. 4. a. A small piece of gummed paper sold by a government for attachment to an article that is to be mailed; a postage stamp. b. A similar piece of gummed paper issued for a specific purpose: trading stamps. 5. An identifying or characterizing mark or impression: His work bears the stamp of genius. 6. Characteristic nature or quality: a person of her stamp. [Middle English stampen possibly alteration of Old English stempan to pound in a mortar]

stand·ing ( st²n"d¹ng) n. 1. a. Status with respect to rank, reputation, or position in society or a profession. b. High reputation; esteem: a person of standing in the community. 2. Continuance in time; duration: a friendship of long standing. 3. Law The right or capacity to initiate a suit. 4. The act of one that stands. 5. A place where a person or thing stands. adj. 1. a. Remaining upright; erect. b. Not cut down: standing timber. 2. Performed or done from a standing position: a standing jump; a standing ovation. 3. Permanent and unchanging; fixed. 4. Remaining in force or use indefinitely: a standing invitation. 5. Not movable; stationary. 6. Not flowing or circulating; stagnant.

stand ( st²nd) v. stood ( st‹d) stand·ing stands v. intr. 1. a. To rise to an upright position on the feet. b. To assume or maintain an upright position as specified: stand straight; stand to one side. 2. a. To maintain an upright position on the feet. b. To maintain an upright or vertical position on a base or support: The urn stands on a pedestal. c. To be placed or situated: The building stands at the corner. 3. a. To remain stable, upright, or intact: The old school still stands. b. To remain valid, effective, or unaltered: The agreement stands. 4. To be or show a specified figure or amount: The balance stands at $500. 5. To measure a specified height when in an upright position: stands six feet tall. 6. To take up or maintain a specified position, altitude, or course: He stands on his earlier offer. We will stand firm. 7. To be in a position of possible gain or loss: She stands to make a fortune. 8. a. To be in a specified state or condition: I stand corrected. We stand in awe of the view. b. To exist in a particular form: Send the message as it now stands. 9. To be at a specified level on or as if on a scale: stands third in her class; stands high in reputation. 10. a. To come to a stop; remain motionless. b. To remain stationary or inactive: The car stood in the garage all winter. 11. To remain without flowing or being disturbed; be or become stagnant. 12. Nautical To take or hold a particular course or direction: a ship standing to windward. 13. To be available as a sire. Used of horses. 14. Chiefly British To be a candidate for public office. v. tr. 1. To cause to stand; place upright. 2. To engage in or encounter: stand battle. 3. a. To resist successfully; withstand: stand the test of time; will not stand close examination. b. To put up with patiently or resolutely; bear: can't stand the heat. See note at bear 1 . 4. To submit to or undergo: stand trial. 5. To tolerate and benefit from: I could stand a good night's sleep. 6. To perform the duty of: stand guard. 7. Informal To treat (someone) or pay the cost of (food or drink): She stood him to a drink. We'll stand dinner. n. 1. The act of standing. 2. A ceasing of work or activity; a standstill or halt. 3. A stop on a performance tour. 4. The place or station where a person stands. 5. A booth, stall, or counter for the display of goods for sale. 6. A parking space reserved for taxis. 7. A desperate or decisive effort at defense or resistance, as in a battle: made their stand at the river. 8. A position or an opinion one is prepared to uphold: must take a stand on environmental issues. 9. stands The bleachers at a playing field or stadium. 10. Law A witness stand. 11. A small rack, prop, or table for holding any of various articles: a music stand; a bedside stand. 12. A group or growth of tall plants or trees: a stand of pine.

Phrasal Verbs: stand by 1. To be ready or available to act. 2. To wait for something, such as a broadcast, to resume. 3. To remain uninvolved; refrain from acting: stood by and let him get away. 4. To remain loyal to; aid or support: stands by her friends. 5. To keep or maintain: stood by her decision. stand down 1. Law To leave a witness stand. 2. To withdraw, as from a political contest. 3. To go off duty. stand for 1. To represent; symbolize. 2. To advocate or support: stands for freedom of the press. 3. To put up with; tolerate: We will not stand for impertinent behavior. stand in 1. To act as a stand-in. stand off 1. To stay at a distance; remain apart or aloof. 2. To put off; evade. 3. Nautical To maintain a course away from shore. stand on 1. To be based on; depend on: The success of the project stands on management's support of it. 2. To insist on observance of: stand on ceremony; stand on one's rights. stand out 1. To protrude; project. 2. To be conspicuous, distinctive, or prominent. 3. To refuse compliance or maintain opposition; hold out: stand out against a verdict. 4. Nautical To maintain a course away from shore. stand over 1. To watch or supervise closely. 2. To hold over; postpone. stand to 1. To take up positions for action. stand up 1. To remain valid, sound, or durable: His claim will not stand up in court. Our old car has stood up well over time. 2. Informal To fail to keep a date with.

Idioms: stand a chance 1. To have a chance, as of gaining or accomplishing something. stand on (one's) own feet or stand on (one's) two feet 1. To be independent and responsible for oneself. stand pat 1. To refuse to change one's position or opinion. 2. Games To play one's poker hand without drawing. stand to reason 1. To be consistent with reason: It stands to reason that if we leave late, we will arrive late. stand up for 1. To side with; defend. stand up to 1. To confront fearlessly; face up to. stand up with 1. To act as best man or maid of honor for (the groom or bride) at a wedding. [Middle English standen from Old English standan; See st ³ - in Indo-European Roots.] stand "er n.

sta·ple 1 ( st³"p…l) n. 1. A principal raw material or commodity grown or produced in a region. 2. A major item of trade in steady demand. 3. A basic dietary item, such as flour, rice, or corn. 4. A basic or principal element or feature. 5. The fiber of cotton, wool, or flax, graded as to length and fineness. adj. 1. Produced or stocked in large quantities to meet steady demand: Wheat is a staple crop. 2. Principal; main: a staple topic of conversation. v. tr. sta·pled sta·pling sta·ples 1. To grade (fibers) according to length and fineness. [Middle English official market for purchase of export goods from Anglo-Norman estaple perhaps from Middle Dutch st³pel heap, emporium]

sta·ple 2 ( st³"p…l) n. 1. A U-shaped metal loop with pointed ends, driven into a surface to hold a bolt, hook, or hasp or to hold wiring in place. 2. A thin piece of wire in the shape of a square bracket that is driven by a device through sheets of paper or similar material and flattened to serve as a fastening. v. tr. sta·pled sta·pling sta·ples 1. To secure or fasten by means of a staple or staples. [Middle English from Old English stapol post, pillar]

star·ling 1 ( stär"l¹ng) n. 1. Any of various Old World passerine birds of the family Sturnidae, characteristically having a short tail, pointed wings, and dark, often iridescent plumage, especially Sturnus vulgaris, widely naturalized in North America. [Middle English from Old English stærlincstær starling -linc noun suff.; See -ling 1 ]

star·ling 2 ( stär"l¹ng) n. 1. A protective structure of pilings surrounding a pier of a bridge. [Perhaps alteration of Middle English stadelinge from stathel foundation from Old English stathol; See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

st ³-. Important derivatives are: steed stud 2 stool stage stance stanza stay 1 arrest circumstance constant contrast cost distant instant obstacle obstetric rest 2 substance stand understand standard stem 1 station static destine obstinate state statue statute institute prostitute substitute superstition establish stable 1 assist exist insist resist ecstasy system post 1 store steer 1 steer 2 To stand; with derivatives meaning " place or thing that is standing. " Contracted from *sta …-. I. Basic form *st ³-. 1. Extended form *st ³dh-. a. STEED , from Old English st ¶da, stallion, studhorse ( < " place for breeding horses "), from Germanic *st ½d-j½n-; b. STUD 2 , from Old English st ½d, establishment for breeding horses, from Germanic *st ½d½. 2. Suffixed form *st ³-lo-. a. STOOL , from Old English st ½l, stool; b. (see pel- 2 ) Germanic compound *faldist ½laz. Both a and b from Germanic *st ½laz. 3. ESTANCIA , STAGE , STANCE , STANCH 1 , STANCHION , ( STANZA ), STATOR , STAY 1 , STET ; ARREST , CIRCUMSTANCE , CONSTANT , CONTRAST , ( COST ), DISTANT , EXTANT , INSTANT , OBSTACLE , OBSTETRIC , ( OUST ), REST 2 , RESTIVE , SUBSTANCE , from Latin st ³re, to stand. 4. Suffixed form *st ³-men-. ETAMINE , STAMEN , STAMMEL , from Latin st ³men, thread of the warp (a technical term). 5. Suffixed form *st ³-mon-. PENSTEMON , from Greek st ¶m½n, thread. 6. Suffixed form *st ³-ro-. STARETS , from Old Church Slavonic star ¾, old ( "long-standing"). II. Zero-grade form *st …- (before consonants). 1. Nasalized extended form *st …-n-t-. a. STAND , from Old English standan , to stand; b. UNDERSTAND , from Old English understandan , to know, stand under ( under- , under-; see ö dher); c. STANDARD , from Frankish *standan , to stand; d. STOUND , from Old English stund , a fixed time, while, from secondary zero-grade form in Germanic *stund- ½. a, b, c, and d all from Germanic *standan . 2. Suffixed form *st …-tyo-. STITHY , from Old Norse stedhi , anvil, from Germanic *stathj ½n-. 3. Suffixed form *st …-tlo-. STADDLE , STARLING 2 , from Old English stathol , foundation, from Germanic *stathlaz . 4. Suffixed form *st …-mno-. STEM 1 , from Old English stefn , stem, tree trunk, from Germanic *stamniz . 5. Suffixed form *st …-ti-. a. (i) STEAD , from Old English stede , place; (ii) STADHOLDER , from Dutch stad , place; (iii) SHTETL , from Old High German stat , place. (i), (ii) , and (iii) all from Germanic *stadiz ; b. STAT 2 , from Latin statim , at once; c. STATION , from Latin stati ½, a standing still; d. ARMISTICE , SOLSTICE , from Latin -stitium , a stoppage; e. STASIS , from Greek stasis (see III. 1. b .), a standing, a standstill. 6. Suffixed form *st …-to-. a. BESTEAD , from Old Norse stadhr , place, from Germanic *stadaz , placed; b. -STAT , STATIC , STATICE , STATO- ; ASTASIA , ( ASTATINE ), from Greek statos , placed, standing. 7. Suffixed form *st …-no-. a. DESTINE , from Latin d ¶stin³re, to make firm, establish ( d ¶-, thoroughly; see de- ); b. OBSTINATE , from Latin obstin ³re, to set one's mind on, persist ( ob- , on; see epi ). 8. Suffixed form *st …-tu-. STATE , STATISTICS , ( STATUE ), STATURE , STATUS , STATUTE ; CONSTITUTE , DESTITUTE , INSTITUTE , PROSTITUTE , RESTITUTE , SUBSTITUTE , SUPERSTITION , from Latin status , manner, position, condition, attitude, with derivatives stat ¿ra, height, stature, statuere , to set up, erect, cause to stand, and superstes ( < *-st …-t-), witness ( "who stands beyond "). 9. Suffixed form *st …-dhlo-. STABLE 2 ; CONSTABLE , from Latin stabulum , " standing place, " stable. 10. Suffixed form *st …-dhli-. ESTABLISH , STABLE 1 , from Latin stabilis , standing firm. 11. Suffixed form *st …-t³. -STAT ; ENSTATITE , from Greek -stat ¶s, one that causes to stand, a standing. III. Zero-grade form *st- , *st( …)- (before vowels). 1. Reduplicated form *si-st( …)-. a. ASSIST , CONSIST , DESIST , EXIST , INSIST , INTERSTICE , PERSIST , RESIST , SUBSIST , from Latin sistere , to set, place, stop, stand; b. APOSTASY , CATASTASIS , DIASTASIS , ECSTASY , EPISTASIS , EPISTEMOLOGY , HYPOSTASIS , ICONOSTASIS , ISOSTASY , METASTASIS , PROSTATE , SYSTEM , from Greek histanai (aorist stanai ), to set, place, with stasis ( *st …-ti-), a standing (see II. 5. e .); c. HISTO- ; HISTIOCYTE , from Greek histos , web, tissue ( < " that which is set up "). 2. Compound form *tri-st-i- , " third person standing by " (see trei- ). 3. Compound form *por-st-i- , " that which stands before " ( *por- , before, forth; see per 1 ). POST 1 , from Latin postis , post. 4. Suffixed form *st-o- in compound *upo-st-o- , " one who stands under " (see upo ). IV. Extended root *st ³u- ( < *sta …u-), becoming *stau- before consonants, *st ³w- before vowels; basic meaning " stout-standing, strong. " 1. Suffixed extended form *st ³w-³. STOW , from Old English st ½w, place, from Germanic *st ½w½. 2. Probable o-grade suffixed extended form *st ½w-y³. STOA , STOIC , from Greek stoa , porch. 3. Suffixed extended form *stau-ro- . a. (i) STORE ; INSTAURATION , from Latin º nstaur³re, to restore, set upright again ( in- , on; see en ); (ii) RESTORE , from Latin restaur ³re, to restore, rebuild ( re- , anew, again; see re- ); b. STAUROLITE , from Greek stauros , cross, post, stake. 4. Variant *tau-ro- , bull (see tauro- ). V. Zero-grade extended root *st ¿- ( < *stu …-). Suffixed form *st ¿-lo-. STYLITE ; AMPHISTYLAR , ASTYLAR , EPISTYLE , HYPOSTYLE , PERISTYLE , PROSTYLE , STYLOBATE , from Greek stulos , pillar. VI. Secondary full-grade form *steu …-. Suffixed form *steu …-ro-. THERAVADA , from Sanskrit sthavira- , thick, stout, old. VII. Variant zero-grade extended root *stu- . Suffixed form *stu-t- . STUD 1 , from Old English stuthu , studu , post, prop. VIII. Secondary full-grade form *steu- . 1. Suffixed form *steu-r ³. STARBOARD , from Old English st ¶or-, a steering, from Germanic *steur ½, " a steering. " 2. a. STEER 1 , from Old English st ºeran, st ¶ran, to steer; b. STERN 2 , from Middle English sterne , stern of a boat, possibly from a source akin to Old Norse stj ½rn, a rudder, a steering, derivative of st þra, to steer. Both a and b from Germanic denominative *steurjan . 3. Suffixed form *steu-ro- , a larger domestic animal. STEER 2 , from Old English st ¶or, steer, from Germanic *steuraz , ox. 4. STIRK , from Old English st ºrc, stierc , calf, from Germanic diminutive *steur-ika- , probably from st ³-. [ Pokorny st ³- 1004. ]

star ( stär) n. 1. Astronomy a. A self-luminous celestial body consisting of a mass of gas held together by its own gravity in which the energy generated by nuclear reactions in the interior is balanced by the outflow of energy to the surface, and the inward-directed gravitational forces are balanced by the outward-directed gas and radiation pressures. b. Any of the celestial bodies visible at night from Earth as relatively stationary, usually twinkling points of light. c. Something regarded as resembling such a celestial body. 2. A graphic design having five or more radiating points, often used as a symbol of rank or merit. 3. An artistic performer or athlete whose leading role or superior performance is acknowledged. 4. An asterisk (·). 5. A white spot on the forehead of a horse. 6. A planet or constellation of the zodiac believed in astrology to influence personal destiny. 7. stars The future; destiny. Often used with the. adj. 1. Of, relating to, or being an outstanding, famous perfomer: a star figure skater. v. starred star·ring stars v. tr. 1. a. To ornament with stars. b. To award or mark with a star for excellence. 2. To mark with an asterisk. 3. To present or feature (a performer) in a leading role. v. intr. 1. To play the leading role in a theatrical or film production. 2. To do an outstanding job; perform excellently.

Idioms: have stars in (one's) eyes 1. To be dazzled or enraptured, as with romantic love. see stars 1. To experience bright, flashing sensations, as from a blow to the head. [Middle English sterre from Old English steorra; See ster- 3 in Indo-European Roots.]

start ( stärt) v. start·ed start·ing starts v. intr. 1. To begin an activity or a movement; set out. 2. To have a beginning; commence. See note at begin . 3. To move suddenly or involuntarily: started at the loud noise. 4. To come quickly into view, life, or activity; spring forth. 5. Sports To be in the initial lineup of a game or race. 6. To protrude or bulge. 7. To become loosened or disengaged. v. tr. 1. To commence; begin. 2. To set into motion, operation, or activity. 3. To introduce; originate. 4. Sports a. To play in the initial lineup of (a game). b. To put (a player) into the initial lineup of a game. c. To enter (a participant) into a race or game. 5. To found; establish: start a business. 6. To tend in an early stage of development: start seedlings. 7. To rouse (game) from its hiding place or lair; flush. 8. To cause to become displaced or loosened. n. Abbr. st. 1. a. A beginning; a commencement. b. The beginning of a new construction project: a large number of new housing starts this year. 2. A place or time of beginning. 3. Sports a. A starting line for a race. b. A signal to begin a race. c. An instance of beginning a game or race: a pitcher who won his first five starts. 4. A startled reaction or movement. 5. A part that has become dislocated or loosened. 6. A position of advantage over others, as in a race or an endeavor; a lead. 7. An opportunity granted to pursue a career or course of action.

Idioms: start something Informal 1. To cause trouble. to start with 1. At the beginning; initially. 2. In any case. [Middle English sterten to move or leap suddenly from Old English *styrtan ; See ster- 1 in Indo-European Roots.]

starve ( stärv) v. starved starv·ing starves v. intr. 1. To suffer or die from extreme or prolonged lack of food. 2. Informal To be hungry. 3. To suffer from deprivation. 4. Archaic To suffer or die from cold. v. tr. 1. To cause to starve. 2. To force to a specified state by starving. [Middle English sterven to die from Old English steorfan; See ster- 1 in Indo-European Roots.]

stash ( st²sh) Slang v. tr. stashed stash·ing stash·es 1. To hide or store away in a secret place. n. 1. A store or cache of money or valuables. 2. Something hidden away. [Origin unknown]

stead ( stµd) n. 1. The place, position, or function properly or customarily occupied by another. 2. Advantage; service; purpose: " His personal relationship with the electorate stands in good stead " John Sears v. tr. stead·ed stead·ing steads 1. To be of advantage or service to; benefit. [Middle English stede from Old English; See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

steal ( st¶l) v. stole ( st½l) sto·len ( st½"l…n) steal·ing steals v. tr. 1. To take (the property of another) without right or permission. 2. To get or effect surreptitiously or artfully: steal a kiss; stole the ball from an opponent. 3. To move, carry, or place surreptitiously. 4. To draw attention unexpectedly in (an entertainment), especially by being the outstanding performer: The magician's assistant stole the show with her comic antics. 5. Baseball To advance safely to (another base) during the delivery of a pitch, without the aid of a base hit, walk, passed ball, or wild pitch. v. intr. 1. To commit theft. 2. To move, happen, or elapse stealthily or unobtrusively. 3. Baseball To steal a base. n. 1. The act of stealing. 2. Slang A bargain.

Idioms: steal (someone's) thunder 1. To use, appropriate, or preempt the use of another's idea, especially to one's own advantage and without consent by the originator. [Middle English stelen from Old English stelan] steal "er n.

Synonyms: steal purloin filch snitch pilfer cop hook swipe lift pinch These verbs mean to take another's property wrongfully, often surreptitiously. Steal is the most general: stole a car; stealing a few moments for relaxation; research that was stolen by a colleague. To purloin is to make off with something, often in a breach of trust: purloined the key to his safe-deposit box. Filch and snitch often suggest that what is stolen is of little value, while pilfer sometimes connotes theft of or in small quantities: filched an ashtray from the restaurant; snitch a handkerchief; strawberries pilfered from the farmer. Cop, hook, and swipe frequently connote quick, furtive snatching or seizing: copped a necklace from the counter; planning to hook a fur coat; swiped a magazine from the doctor's waiting room. To lift is to pick or take something up surreptitiously and keep it for oneself: The pickpocket lifted my wallet. Pinch suggests stealing something by or as if by squeezing it between the thumb and the fingers: went into the study and pinched a dollar bill.

steam ( st¶m) n. 1. a. The vapor phase of water. b. A mist of cooling water vapor. 2. a. Pressurized water vapor used for heating, cooking, or to provide mechanical power. b. The power produced by a machine using pressurized water vapor. c. Steam heating. 3. Power; energy. v. steamed steam·ing steams v. intr. 1. To produce or emit steam. 2. To become or rise up as steam. 3. To become misted or covered with steam. 4. To move by means of steam power. 5. Informal To become very angry; fume. v. tr. 1. To expose to steam, as in cooking. [Middle English steme from Old English st¶am]

steel ( st¶l) n. 1. A generally hard, strong, durable, malleable alloy of iron and carbon, usually containing between 0.2 and 1.5 percent carbon, often with other constituents such as manganese, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, copper, tungsten, cobalt, or silicon, depending on the desired alloy properties, and widely used as a structural material. 2. Something, such as a sword, that is made of steel. 3. A quality suggestive of this alloy, especially a hard, unflinching character. 4. Color Steel gray. adj. 1. a. Made with, relating to, or consisting of steel: steel beams; the steel industry; a bicycle with a steel frame. b. Very firm or strong: a steel grip. 2. Color Of a steel gray. v. tr. steeled steel·ing steels 1. To cover, plate, edge, or point with steel. 2. To make hard, strong, or obdurate; strengthen: He steeled himself for disappointment. [Middle English stel from Old English stþle, st¶l]

steep 2 ( st¶p) v. steeped steep·ing steeps v. tr. 1. To soak in liquid in order to cleanse, soften, or extract a given property from. 2. To infuse or subject thoroughly to. 3. To make thoroughly wet; saturate. v. intr. 1. To undergo a soaking in liquid. n. 1. a. The act or process of steeping. b. The state of being steeped. 2. A liquid, bath, or solution in which something is steeped. [Middle English stepen perhaps of Old English origin] steep "er n.

steer 1 ( stîr) v. steered steer·ing steers v. tr. 1. To guide by means of a device such as a rudder, paddle, or wheel. 2. a. To direct the course of. b. To maneuver (a person) into a place or course of action. See note at guide . v. intr. 1. To guide a vessel or vehicle. 2. To follow or move in a set course. 3. To admit of being steered or guided: a craft that steers easily. n. 1. A piece of advice. [Middle English steren from Old English st¶ran;See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.] steer "a·ble adj. steer "er n.

steeve 1 ( st¶v) Nautical n. 1. A spar or derrick with a block at one end, used for stowing cargo. v. tr. steeved steev·ing steeves 1. To stow or pack (cargo) in the hold of a ship. [From Middle English steven to stow probably from Old Spanish estibar to steeve or from Old Catalan stivar both from Latin stºp³re]

steeve 2 ( st¶v) Nautical n. 1. The angle formed by the bowsprit and the horizon or the keel. v. steeved steev·ing steeves v. tr. 1. To incline (a bowsprit) upward at an angle with the horizon or the keel. v. intr. 1. To have an upward inclination. Used of a bowsprit. [Origin unknown]

stem 1 ( stµm) n. 1. a. The main ascending axis of a plant; a stalk or trunk. b. A slender stalk supporting or connecting another plant part, such as a leaf or flower. 2. A banana stalk bearing several bunches of bananas. 3. A connecting or supporting part, especially: a. The tube of a tobacco pipe. b. The slender upright support of a wineglass or goblet. c. The small projecting shaft with an expanded crown by which a watch is wound. d. The rounded rod in the center of certain locks about which the key fits and is turned. e. The shaft of a feather or hair. f. The upright stroke of a typeface or letter. g. Music The vertical line extending from the head of a note. 4. The main line of descent of a family. 5. Linguistics The main part of a word to which affixes are added. 6. Nautical The curved upright beam at the fore of a vessel into which the hull timbers are scarfed to form the prow. 7. The tubular glass structure mounting the filament or electrodes in an incandescent bulb or vacuum tube. v. stemmed stem·ming stems v. intr. 1. To have or take origin or descent. v. tr. 1. To remove the stem of. 2. To provide with a stem. 3. To make headway against: managed to stem the rebellion.

Idioms: from stem to stern 1. From one end to another. [Middle English from Old English stefn, stemn; See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

Synonyms: stem arise derive emanate flow issue originate proceed rise spring The central meaning shared by these verbs is " to come forth or come into being ": customs stemming from the past; misery arising from war; rights deriving from citizenship; disapproval emanating from the teacher; happiness that flows from their friendship; prejudice that issues from fear; a proposal originating in the Congress; a mistake that proceeded from carelessness; rebellion rising in the provinces; new industries springing up.

stem 2 ( stµm) v. stemmed stem·ming stems v. tr. 1. To stop or hold back by or as if by damming; stanch. 2. To plug or tamp (a blast hole, for example). 3. Sports To point (skis) inward. v. intr. Sports 1. To point skis inward in order to slow down or turn. [Middle English stemmen from Old Norse stemma]

step ( stµp) n. 1. a. The single complete movement of raising one foot and putting it down in another spot, as in walking. b. A manner of walking; a particular gait. c. A fixed rhythm or pace, as in marching: keep step. d. The sound of a footstep. e. A footprint: steps in the mud. 2. a. The distance traversed by moving one foot ahead of the other. b. A very short distance: just a step away. c. steps Course; path: turned her steps toward home. 3. a. A rest for the foot in ascending or descending. b. steps Stairs. c. Something, such as a ledge or an offset, that resembles a step of a stairway. 4. a. One of a series of actions, processes, or measures taken to achieve a goal. b. A stage in a process: followed every step in the instructions. 5. A degree in progress or a grade or rank in a scale: a step up in the corporate hierarchy. 6. Music The interval that separates two successive tones of a scale. 7. Nautical The block in which the heel of a mast is fixed. v. stepped step·ping steps v. intr. 1. To put or press the foot: step on the gas. 2. To shift or move slightly by taking a step or two: step back. 3. To walk a short distance to a specified place or in a specified direction: step over to the corner. 4. To move with the feet in a particular manner: step lively. 5. To move into a new situation by or as if by taking a single step: stepping into a life of ease. 6. To treat with arrogant indifference: He is always stepping on other people. v. tr. 1. To put or set (the foot) down: step foot on land. 2. To measure by pacing: step off ten yards. 3. To furnish with steps; make steps in: terraces that are stepped along the hillside. 4. Computer Science To cause (a computer) to execute a single instruction. 5. Nautical To place (a mast) in its step.

Phrasal Verbs: step down 1. To resign from a high post. 2. To reduce, especially in stages: stepping down the electric power. step in 1. To enter into an activity or a situation. 2. To intervene. step out 1. To walk briskly. 2. To go outside for a short time. 3. Informal To go out for a special evening of entertainment. 4. To withdraw; quit. step up 1. To increase, especially in stages: step up production. 2. To come forward: step up and be counted.

Idioms: in step 1. Moving in rhythm. 2. In conformity with one's environment: in step with the times. out of step 1. Not moving in rhythm: recruits marching out of step. 2. Not in conformity with one's environment: out of step with the times. step by step 1. By degrees. step on it Informal 1. To go faster; hurry. [Middle English from Old English stæpe, stepe]

ster·ling ( stûr"l¹ng) n. Abbr. ster. stg. 1. British money, especially the pound as the basic monetary unit of the United Kingdom. 2. British coinage of silver or gold, having as a standard of fineness 0.500 for silver and 0.91666 for gold. 3. a. Sterling silver. b. Articles, such as tableware, made of sterling silver. adj. Abbr. ster. stg. 1. Consisting of or relating to sterling or British money. 2. Made of sterling silver: a sterling teaspoon. 3. Of the highest quality: a person of sterling character. [Middle English silver penny possibly sterre star; See star -ling diminutive suff.( from the small star stamped on the coin) ;See -ling 1 ]

Ster·ling ( stûr"l¹ng) 1. A city of northwest Illinois southwest of Rockford. It is an industrial center. Population, 15,132.

Sterling College 1. Main Street, Craftsbury Common, VT 05827; Private; 83

Sterling College 1. North Broadway, Sterling, KS 67579; Private; 480

stet ( stµt) v. stet·ted stet·ting stets Abbr. st. Printing v. intr. 1. To direct that a letter, word, or other matter marked for omission or correction is to be retained. Used in the imperative. v. tr. 1. To nullify (a correction or deletion) in printed matter. [Latin, third person sing. present subjunctive of st³reto stand; See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

stick ( st¹k) n. 1. A long, slender piece of wood, especially: a. A branch or stem cut from a tree or shrub. b. A piece of wood, such as a tree branch, that is used for fuel, cut for lumber, or shaped for a specific purpose. c. A wand, staff, baton, or rod. d. Sports Games Any of various implements shaped like a rod and used in play: a hockey stick. 2. A walking stick; a cane. 3. Something slender and often cylindrical in form: a stick of dynamite. 4. Slang A marijuana cigarette. 5. a. The control device of an aircraft that operates the elevators and ailerons. b. Informal A stick shift. 6. Nautical A mast or a part of a mast. 7. Printing a. A composing stick. b. A stickful. 8. a. A group of bombs released to fall across an enemy target in a straight row. b. Slang A group of paratroopers exiting an aircraft in succession. 9. A timber tree. 10. Informal A piece of furniture. 11. A poke, thrust, or stab with a stick or similar object: a stick in the ribs. 12. A threatened penalty: using both a carrot and a stick to keep allies in line. 13. The condition or power of adhering: a glue with plenty of stick. 14. sticks Informal a. A remote area; backwoods: moved to the sticks. b. A city or town regarded as dull or unsophisticated. 15. Informal A person regarded as stiff, boring, or spiritless. 16. Archaic A difficulty or an obstacle; a delay. v. stuck ( st¾k) stick·ing sticks v. tr. 1. To pierce, puncture, or penetrate with a pointed instrument. 2. To kill by piercing. 3. To thrust or push (a pointed instrument) into or through another object. 4. To fasten into place by forcing an end or point into something: stick a hook on the wall. 5. To fasten or attach with or as if with pins, nails, or similar devices. 6. To fasten or attach with an adhesive material, such as glue or tape. 7. To cover or decorate with objects piercing the surface. 8. To fix, impale, or transfix on a pointed object: stick an olive on a toothpick. 9. To put, thrust, or push: stuck a flower in his buttonhole; sticking her head out the window. 10. To detain or delay. 11. past tense and past participle sticked ( st¹kt) To prop (a plant) with sticks or brush on which to grow. 12. past tense and past participle sticked Printing To set (type) in a composing stick. 13. Informal To confuse, baffle, or puzzle: Sometimes even simple questions stick me. 14. To cover or smear with something sticky. 15. Informal To put blame or responsibility on; burden: stuck me with the bill. 16. Slang To defraud or cheat: The dealer stuck me with shoddy merchandise. v. intr. 1. To be or become fixed or embedded in place by having the point thrust in. 2. To become or remain attached or in close association by or as if by adhesion; cling: stick together in a crowd; stuck with me on the unfamiliar trail. 3. a. To remain firm, determined, or resolute: stuck to basic principles. b. To remain loyal or faithful: stick by a friend through difficult times. c. To persist or endure: a bad name that has stuck. 4. To scruple or hesitate: She sticks at nothing —no matter how difficult. 5. To be at or come to a standstill; become fixed, blocked, checked, or obstructed: stuck in traffic for an hour. 6. To project or protrude: hair sticking out on his head; an antenna sticking up on the roof.

Phrasal Verbs: stick around Informal 1. To remain; linger. stick out 1. To be prominent. 2. Informal To put up with: had to stick out a bad situation in the office. stick up 1. To rob, especially at gunpoint.

Idioms: be stuck on Informal 1. To be very fond of. stick it to Slang 1. To treat severely or wrongfully. stick (one's) neck out Informal 1. To make oneself vulnerable; take a risk. stick to one's guns or stick by one's guns 1. To hold fast to an opinion or a set course of action. stick to (one's) knitting Informal 1. To mind one's own business. stick to (one's) ribs Informal 1. To be substantial or filling. Used of food. stick up for 1. To defend or support. [Middle English stikke from Old English sticca; See steig- in Indo-European Roots.]

stiff ( st¹f) adj. stiff·er stiff·est 1. Difficult to bend; rigid. 2. a. Not moving or operating easily or freely; resistant: a stiff hinge. b. Lacking ease or comfort of movement; not limber: a stiff neck. 3. Drawn tightly; taut. 4. a. Rigidly formal. b. Lacking ease or grace. 5. Not liquid, loose, or fluid; thick: stiff dough. 6. Firm, as in purpose; resolute. 7. Having a strong, swift, steady force or movement: a stiff current; a stiff breeze. 8. Potent or strong: a stiff drink. 9. Difficult, laborious, or arduous: a stiff hike; a stiff examination. 10. Difficult to comprehend or accept; harsh or severe: a stiff penalty. 11. Excessively high: a stiff price. 12. Nautical Not heeling over much in spite of great wind or the press of the sail. adv. 1. In a stiff manner: frozen stiff. 2. To a complete extent; totally: bored stiff. n. Slang 1. A corpse. 2. A person regarded as constrained, priggish, or overly formal. 3. A drunk. 4. A person: a lucky stiff; just an ordinary working stiff. 5. A hobo; a tramp. 6. A person who tips poorly. v. tr. stiffed stiff·ing stiffs Slang 1. To tip (someone) inadequately or not at all, as for a service rendered: paid the dinner check but stiffed the waiter. 2. a. To cheat (someone) of something owed: My roommate stiffed me out of last month's rent. b. To fail to give or supply (something expected or promised). [Middle English from Old English stºf] stiff "ish adj. stiff "ly adv. stiff "ness n.

Synonyms: stiff rigid inflexible inelastic tense These adjectives are compared as they describe what is very firm and does not easily bend or give way. Stiff, the least specific, refers to what can be flexed only with difficulty ( a brush with stiff bristles; a stiff collar ); with reference to persons it often suggests a lack of ease, cold formality, or fixity, as of purpose: " stiff in opinions " (John Dryden). Rigid and inflexible apply to what cannot be bent without damage or deformation ( a table made of rigid plastic; an inflexible knife blade ); figuratively they describe what does not relent or yield: " under the dictates of a rigid disciplinarian " (Thomas B. Aldrich). " In religion the law is written, and inflexible, never to do evil " (Oliver Goldsmith). Inelastic refers largely to what lacks elasticity and so will not stretch and spring back without marked physical change: an inelastic substance. Tense means stretched tight; it is applied literally to body structures such as muscles and figuratively to what is marked by tautness or strain: " that tense moment of expectation " (Arnold Bennett).

sti·fling ( stº"fl¹ng) adj. 1. Very hot or stuffy almost to the point of being suffocating. 2. Being of such a character or nature as to engender a feeling of stultification, repression, or suffocation: " The scholarly correctness of our age can be stifling " Annalyn Swan sti "fling·ly adv.

sti·fle 1 ( stº"f…l) v. sti·fled sti·fling sti·fles v. tr. 1. To interrupt or cut off (the voice, for example). 2. To keep in or hold back; repress: stifled my indignation. See note at suppress . 3. To kill by preventing respiration; smother or suffocate. v. intr. 1. To feel smothered or suffocated by or as if by close confinement in a stuffy room. 2. To die of suffocation. [Middle English stifilen alteration( influenced by Old Norse stºfla to stop up) of stuffen, stuflen to stifle, choke, drown from Old French estoufer of Germanic origin] sti "fler n.

still 1 ( st¹l) adj. still·er still·est 1. Free of sound. 2. Low in sound; hushed or subdued. 3. Not moving or in motion. 4. Free from disturbance, agitation, or commotion. 5. Free from a noticeable current: a still pond; still waters. 6. Not carbonated; lacking effervescence: a still wine. 7. Of or relating to a single or static photograph as opposed to a movie. n. 1. Silence; quiet: the still of the night. 2. A still photograph, especially one taken from a scene of a movie and used for promotional purposes. 3. A still-life picture. adv. 1. Without movement; motionlessly: stand still. 2. Up to or at the time indicated; yet: still unfinished; will still be here tomorrow. 3. In increasing amount or degree: and still further complaints. 4. All the same; nevertheless. v. stilled still·ing stills v. tr. 1. To make still or tranquil. 2. To make quiet; silence. 3. To make motionless. 4. To allay; calm: The parents stilled their child's fears of the dark. v. intr. 1. To become still. [Middle English from Old English stille; See stel- in Indo-European Roots.]

Synonyms: still quiet silent noiseless soundless These adjectives mean marked by or making no sound, noise, or movement. Still implies lack of motion or disturbance; the term often connotes rest or tranquillity: " But after tempest . . . /There came a day as still as heaven " (Tennyson). Quiet suggests the absence of noise, bustle, tumult, or agitation: " life being very short, and the quiet hours of it few " (John Ruskin). Silent refers to absence of sound or noise and may suggest a profound hush: " I like the silent church before the service begins " (Ralph Waldo Emerson). Noiseless and soundless mean without sound but usually imply freedom from disturbing sound: " th' inaudible and noiseless foot of time " (Shakespeare); " the soundless footsteps on the grass " (John Galsworthy).

stilt ( st¹lt) n. 1. Either of a pair of long, slender poles each equipped with a raised footrest to enable the user to walk elevated above the ground. 2. Any of various tall posts or pillars used as support, as for a dock or building: a beach house on stilts. 3. pl. stilt or stilts a. An American wading bird (Himantopus mexicanus) that has long pink legs, black and white plumage, and a long slender bill, and that ranges from the United States to Peru and Brazil and is related to the avocet. b. A related bird (Cladorhyncus leucocephala) of Australia. v. tr. stilt·ed stilt·ing stilts 1. To place or raise on stilts. [Middle English stilte; See stel- in Indo-European Roots.]

sting ( st¹ng) v. stung ( st¾ng) sting·ing stings v. tr. 1. To pierce or wound painfully with or as if with a sharp-pointed structure or organ, as that of certain insects. 2. To cause to feel a sharp, smarting pain by or as if by pricking with a sharp point: smoke stinging our eyes. 3. To cause to suffer keenly in the mind or feelings: Those harsh words stung me bitterly. 4. To spur on by or as if by sharp irritation. 5. Slang To cheat or overcharge. v. intr. 1. To have, use, or wound with or as if with a sharp-pointed structure or organ, as that of certain insects. 2. To cause or feel a sharp, smarting pain. n. 1. The act of stinging. 2. The wound or pain caused by or as if by stinging. 3. A sharp, piercing organ or part, often ejecting a venomous secretion, as the modified ovipositor of a bee or wasp or the spine of certain fishes. 4. A stinging power, quality, or capacity. 5. A keen stimulus or incitement; a goad or spur: the sting of curiosity. 6. Slang A complicated confidence game planned and executed with great care, especially an operation organized and implemented by undercover agents to apprehend criminals. [Middle English stingen from Old English stingan; See stegh- in Indo-European Roots.] sting "ing·ly adv.

stink·ing ( st¹ng"k¹ng) adj. 1. Having a foul smell; fetid. 2. Slang Very drunk. adv. Slang 1. Used as an intensive: stinking rich. stink "ing·ly adv. stink "ing·ness n.

stink ( st¹ngk) v. stank ( st²ngk) or stunk ( st¾ngk) stunk stink·ing stinks v. intr. 1. To emit a strong foul odor. 2. a. To be highly offensive or abhorrent. b. To be in extremely bad repute. 3. Slang To have something to an extreme or offensive degree: a family that stinks with money; a deed that stinks of treachery. 4. Slang To be of an extremely low or bad quality: This job stinks. v. tr. 1. To cause to stink: garbage that stinks up the yard. n. 1. A strong offensive odor; a stench. See note at stench .

Idioms: make a stink or raise a stink Slang 1. To make a great fuss. [Middle English stinken from Old English stincan to emit a smell] stink "y adj.

stint 1 ( st¹nt) v. stint·ed stint·ing stints v. tr. 1. To restrict or limit, as in amount or number; be sparing with. 2. Archaic To cause to stop. v. intr. 1. To subsist on a meager allowance; be frugal. 2. Archaic To stop or desist. n. 1. A fixed amount or share of work allotted. See note at task . 2. A limitation or restriction: working without stint. [Middle English stinten to cease from Old English styntan to blunt] stint "er n. stint "ing·ly adv.

stir·ring ( stûr"¹ng) adj. 1. Exciting strong feelings, as of inspiration; rousing. See note at moving . 2. Active; lively. n. 1. A slight motion or moving about: restless stirrings in the audience. Stir "ring·ly adv.

stir 1 ( stûr) v. stirred stir·ring stirs v. tr. 1. a. To pass an implement through (a liquid, for example) in circular motions so as to mix or cool the contents: stirred the soup before tasting it. b. To introduce (an ingredient, for example) into a liquid or mixture: stirred a cup of sugar into the cake batter. c. To mix together the ingredients of before cooking or use: stirred up some popover batter; stirred the paint. 2. To alter the placement of slightly; disarrange: had not stirred out of line. 3. To cause to move briskly or vigorously; bestir. 4. a. To rouse, as from indifference, and prompt to action. See note at provoke . b. To provoke deliberately: stirred by trouble. 5. To excite strong feelings in. v. intr. 1. To change position slightly: The dog stirred in its sleep. 2. a. To move about actively; bestir oneself. b. To move away from a customary or usual place or position: instructed the guards not to stir from their posts. 3. To take place; happen. 4. To be capable of being stirred: a mixture that stirs easily. 5. To be roused or affected by strong feelings: " His wrath so stirred within him, that he could have struck him dead " Charles Dickens n. 1. A stirring, mixing, or poking movement. 2. A slight movement. 3. A disturbance or commotion. 4. An excited reaction; a ferment. [Middle English stiren from Old English styrian to excite, agitate] stir "rer n.

stock·ing ( st¼k"¹ng) n. 1. A close-fitting, usually knitted covering for the foot and leg made from nylon, silk, cotton, wool, and similar yarns. 2. An item resembling this covering. [From dialectal stock from Middle English stokke leg covering probably from stok stock; See stock ] stock "inged adj.

stock ( st¼k) n. Abbr. s. stk. 1. A supply accumulated for future use; a store. 2. The total merchandise kept on hand by a merchant, commercial establishment, warehouse, or manufacturer. 3. All the animals kept or raised on a farm; livestock. 4. a. The capital or fund that a corporation raises through the sale of shares entitling the stockholder to dividends and to other rights of ownership, such as voting rights. b. The number of shares that each stockholder possesses. c. The part of a tally or record of account formerly given to a creditor. d. A debt symbolized by a tally. 5. The trunk or main stem of a tree or another plant. 6. a. A plant or stem onto which a graft is made. b. A plant or tree from which cuttings and slips are taken. 7. a. The original progenitor of a family line. b. The descendants of a common ancestor; a family line, especially of a specified character: comes from farming stock. c. Ancestry or lineage; antecedents. d. The type from which a group of animals or plants has descended. e. A race, family, or other related group of animals or plants. f. An ethnic group or other major division of the human race. g. A group of related languages. h. A group of related families of languages. 8. The raw material out of which something is made. 9. The broth in which meat, fish, bones, or vegetables are simmered for a relatively long period, used as a base in preparing soup, gravy, or sauces. 10. a. A main upright part, especially a supporting structure or block. b. stocks Nautical The timber frame that supports a ship during construction. c. A frame in which a horse or other animal is held for shoeing or for veterinary treatment. Often used in the plural. 11. stocks A device consisting of a heavy timber frame with holes for confining the ankles and sometimes the wrists, formerly used for punishment. 12. Nautical A crosspiece at the end of the shank of an anchor. 13. The wooden block from which a bell is suspended. 14. a. The rear wooden, metal, or plastic handle or support of a rifle, a pistol, or an automatic weapon, to which the barrel and mechanism are attached. b. The long supporting structure and mooring beam of field-gun carriages that trails along the ground to provide stability and support. 15. A handle, such as that of a whip, a fishing rod, or various carpentry tools. 16. The frame of a plow, to which the share, handles, coulter, and other parts are fastened. 17. a. A theatrical stock company. b. The repertoire of such a company. c. A theater or theatrical activity, especially outside of a main theatrical center: a small role in summer stock. 18. Botany Any of several Eurasian and Mediterranean plants of the genus Matthiola in the mustard family, especially M. incana, widely cultivated for its clusters of showy, variously colored flowers. 19. Games The portion of a pack of cards or of a group of dominoes that is not dealt out but is drawn from during a game. 20. Geology A body of intrusive igneous rock of which less than 100 square kilometers (40 square miles) is exposed. 21. Zoology A compound organism, such as a colony of zooids. 22. a. Personal reputation or status: a teacher whose stock with the students is rising. b. Confidence or credence: I put no stock in that statement. 23. a. A long white neckcloth worn as part of a formal riding habit. b. A broad scarf worn around the neck, especially by certain clerics. 24. Rolling stock. v. stocked stock·ing stocks v. tr. 1. To provide or furnish with a stock of something, especially: a. To supply (a shop) with merchandise. b. To supply (a farm) with livestock. c. To fill (a stream, for example) with fish. 2. To keep for future sale or use. 3. To provide (a rifle, for example) with a stock. 4. Obsolete To put (someone) in the stocks as a punishment. v. intr. 1. To gather and lay in a supply of something: stock up on canned goods. 2. To put forth or sprout new shoots. Used of a plant. adj. 1. Kept regularly in stock: a stock item. 2. Repeated regularly without any thought or originality; routine: a stock answer. 3. Employed in dealing with or caring for stock or merchandise: a stock clerk. 4. a. Of or relating to the raising of livestock: stock farming. b. Used for breeding: a stock mare. 5. a. Of or relating to a stock company or its repertoire. b. Of or being a conventional character or situation that recurs in many literary or cinematic works.

Idioms: in stock 1. Available for sale or use; on hand. out of stock 1. Not available for sale or use. [Middle English stok from Old English stocc tree trunk] stock "age n. stock "er n.

stomp ( st¼mp, stômp ) v. stomped stomp·ing stomps v. tr. 1. To tread or trample heavily or violently on. v. intr. 1. To tread or trample heavily or violently. n. 1. A dance involving a rhythmical, heavy step. 2. The jazz music for this dance. [Variant of stamp ] stomp "er n. stomp "ing·ly adv.

Usage Note: Stomp and stamp are interchangeable in the sense " to trample " or " to tread on violently ": stomped (or stamped ) to death; stomping (or stamping ) horses. Only stamp is used in the sense " to eliminate ": stamp out a fire; stamp out poverty. Stamp is also standard in the sense " to strike the ground with the foot, as in anger or frustration, " as in He stamped his foot and began to cry. In an earlier survey the use of stomp in this example was rejected by a large majority of the Usage Panel.

stooge ( st›j) n. 1. The straight man to a comedian. 2. One who allows oneself to be used for another's profit or advantage; a puppet. 3. Slang A stool pigeon. v. intr. stooged stoog·ing stoog·es 1. To be a stooge or behave like one. [Origin unknown]

stool ( st›l) n. 1. A backless and armless single seat supported on legs or a pedestal. 2. A low bench or support for the feet or knees in sitting or kneeling, as a footrest. 3. A toilet seat; a commode. 4. a. A bowel movement; an evacuation. b. Evacuated fecal matter. 5. Botany a. A stump or rootstock that produces shoots or suckers. b. A shoot or growth from such a stump or rootstock. v. intr. stooled stool·ing stools 1. Botany To send up shoots or suckers. 2. To evacuate the bowels; defecate. 3. Slang To act as a stool pigeon. [Middle English from Old English st½l;See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

stoop 1 ( st›p) v. stooped stoop·ing stoops v. intr. 1. To bend forward and down from the waist or the middle of the back: had to stoop in order to fit into the cave. 2. To walk or stand, especially habitually, with the head and upper back bent forward. 3. To bend or sag downward. 4. a. To lower or debase oneself. b. To descend from a superior position; condescend. 5. To yield; submit. 6. To swoop down, as a bird in pursuing its prey. v. tr. 1. To bend (the head or body) forward and down. 2. To debase; humble. n. 1. The act of stooping. 2. A forward bending of the head and upper back, especially when habitual. 3. An act of self-abasement or condescension. 4. A descent, as of a bird of prey. [Middle English stoupen from Old English st¿pian]

Synonyms: stoop condescend deign The central meaning shared by these verbs is " to descend to a level considered inappropriate to one's dignity ": stooping to contemptible methods to realize their ambitions; won't condescend to acknowledge his rival's greeting; didn't even deign to reply.

stop ( st¼p) v. stopped stop·ping stops v. tr. 1. To close (an opening) by covering, filling in, or plugging up. 2. To constrict (an opening or orifice). 3. To obstruct or block passage on (a road, for example). 4. To prevent the flow or passage of: tried to stop the bleeding. 5. To cause to halt, cease, or desist: stopped me and asked directions. 6. To desist from; cease: stop running. 7. To order a bank to withhold payment of: stopped the check. 8. To cause (a motor, for example) to cease operation or function; halt. 9. Music a. To press down (a string on a stringed instrument) on the fingerboard to produce a desired pitch. b. To close (a hole on a wind instrument) with the finger in sounding a desired pitch. v. intr. 1. To cease moving, progressing, acting, or operating; come to a halt: The clock stopped at some point during the night. 2. To put an end to what one is doing; cease: had to stop at an exciting place in the book. 3. To interrupt one's course or journey for a brief visit or stay: stop at the store; stopped at a friend's for a few nights. n. 1. The act of stopping or the condition of being stopped; cessation. 2. A finish; an end. 3. A stay or visit, as one taken during a trip. 4. A place at which someone or something stops: a regular stop on my paper route; a bus stop. 5. A device or means that obstructs, blocks, or plugs up. 6. An order given to a bank to withhold payment on a check. 7. A part in a machine that stops or regulates movement. 8. The effective aperture of a lens, controlled by a diaphragm. 9. A mark of punctuation, especially a period. 10. Music a. The act of stopping a string or hole on an instrument. b. A fret on a stringed instrument. c. A hole on a wind instrument. d. A device such as a key for closing the hole on a wind instrument. e. A tuned set of pipes, as in an organ. f. A knob, key, or pull that regulates such a set of pipes. 11. Nautical A line used for securing something temporarily: a sail stop. 12. Linguistics 13. See plosive . 14. The depression between the muzzle and top of the skull of an animal, especially a dog. 15. Games A stopper. 16. Architecture A projecting stone, often carved, at the end of a molding. adj. 1. Of, relating to, or being of use at the end of an operation or activity: a stop code.

Phrasal Verbs: stop down 1. To reduce (the aperture) of a lens. [Middle English stoppen from Old English -stoppian probably from Vulgar Latin *stupp ³re to caulk from Latin stuppa tow, broken flax from Greek stupp¶] stop "pa·ble adj.

Synonyms: stop cease desist discontinue halt quit The central meaning shared by these verbs is " to bring or come to a cessation ": stop arguing; ceased crying; desist from complaining; discontinued the treatment; halting the convoy; quit laughing.

storm ( stôrm) n. 1. An atmospheric disturbance manifested in strong winds accompanied by rain, snow, or other precipitation and often by thunder and lightning. 2. Meteorology A wind with a speed from 64 to 73 miles (from 103 to 117 kilometers) per hour, according to the Beaufort scale. Also Called violent storm . 3. A heavy shower of objects, such as bullets or missiles. 4. A strong or violent outburst, as of emotion or excitement: a storm of tears. 5. A violent disturbance or upheaval, as in political, social, or domestic affairs: a storm of protest. 6. A violent, sudden attack on a fortified place. v. stormed storm·ing storms v. intr. 1. a. To blow forcefully. b. To precipitate rain, snow, hail, or sleet. 2. To be extremely angry; rant and rage. 3. To move or rush tumultuously, violently, or angrily: stormed into the room. v. tr. 1. To assault, capture, or captivate by storm. See note at attack .

Idioms: take by storm 1. To captivate completely: a new play that took New York City by storm. [Middle English from Old English]

sto·ry 1 ( stôr"¶, st ½r"¶) n. pl. sto·ries 1. An account or a recital of an event or a series of events, either true or fictitious. 2. A usually fictional prose or verse narrative intended to interest or amuse the hearer or reader; a tale. 3. A short story. 4. An incident, experience, or subject that furnishes or would be interesting material for a narrative: " He was colorful, he was charismatic, he was controversial, he was a good story " Terry Ann Knopf 5. The plot of a narrative or dramatic work. 6. A report, a statement, or an allegation of facts. 7. a. A news article or broadcast. b. The event, situation, or other material for such an article or broadcast. 8. An anecdote. 9. A lie. 10. Romantic legend or tradition. v. tr. sto·ried sto·ry·ing sto·ries 1. To decorate with scenes representing historical or legendary events. 2. Archaic To tell as a story. [Middle English storie from Old French estorie, estoire from Latin historia; See history ]

strafe ( str³f) v. tr. strafed straf·ing strafes 1. To attack (ground troops, for example) with a machine gun or cannon from a low-flying aircraft. n. 1. An attack of machine-gun or cannon fire from a low-flying aircraft. [From German (Gott) strafe (England) (God) punish (England), a common World War I slogan from strafen to punish from Middle High German str³fen to contest, admonish] straf "er n.

stray ( str³) v. intr. strayed stray·ing strays 1. a. To move away from a group, deviate from the correct course, or go beyond established limits. b. To become lost. 2. To wander about without a destination or purpose; roam. See note at wander . 3. To follow a winding course; meander. 4. To deviate from a moral, proper, or right course; err. 5. To become diverted from a subject or train of thought; digress. See note at swerve . n. 1. One that has strayed, especially a domestic animal wandering about. adj. 1. Straying or having strayed; wandering or lost: stray cats and dogs. 2. Scattered or separate: a few stray crumbs. [Middle English straien from Old French estraier from estree highway from Latin str³ta;See street ] stray "er n.

strew ( str›) v. tr. strewed strewn ( str›n) or strewed strew·ing strews 1. To spread here and there; scatter: strewing flowers down the aisle. 2. To cover (an area or a surface) with things scattered or sprinkled: " Italy . . . was strewn thick with the remains of Roman buildings " Bernard Berenson 3. To be or become dispersed over (a surface). 4. To spread (something) over a wide area; disseminate. [Middle English strewen from Old English str¶owian;See ster- 2 in Indo-European Roots.]

stride ( strºd) v. strode ( str½d) strid·den ( str¹d"n) strid·ing strides v. intr. 1. To walk with long steps, especially in a hasty or vigorous way. 2. To take a single long step, as in passing over an obstruction. 3. To stand or sit astride; straddle. v. tr. 1. To walk with long steps on, along, or over: striding the stage. 2. To step over or across: stride a brook. 3. To be astride of; straddle. n. 1. The act of striding. 2. a. A single long step. b. The distance traveled in such a step. 3. a. A single coordinated movement of the four legs of a horse or other animal, completed when the legs return to their initial relative position. b. The distance traveled in such a movement. 4. A step of progress; an advance. Often used in the plural: making great strides in their studies.

Idioms: hit (one's) stride 1. To achieve a steady, effective pace. 2. To attain a maximum level of competence. take in (one's) stride 1. To cope with calmly, without interrupting one's normal routine: taking their newfound wealth in stride. [Middle English striden from Old English strºdan] strid "er n.

strik·ing ( strº"k¹ng) adj. 1. Arresting the attention and producing a vivid impression on the sight or the mind. See note at noticeable . strik "ing·ly adv. strik "ing·ness n.

strike ( strºk) v. struck ( str¾k) struck or strick·en ( str¹k"…n) strik·ing strikes v. tr. 1. a. To hit sharply, as with the hand, the fist, or a weapon. b. To inflict (a blow). 2. To penetrate or pierce: was struck in the leg by a bullet. 3. a. To collide with or crash into: She struck the desk with her knee. b. To cause to come into violent or forceful contact: She struck her knee against the desk. c. To thrust (a weapon, for example) in or into someone or something: struck the sword into the dragon. d. To damage or destroy, as by forceful contact: Lightning struck the tree. 4. To make a military attack on; assault. 5. To afflict suddenly, as with a disease or an impairment: was stricken with cancer. 6. To cause to become by or as if by a blow: struck him dead. 7. a. To snap at or seize (a bait). b. To hook (a fish that has taken the bait) by a pull on the line. 8. To wound by biting. Used especially of a snake. 9. To form by stamping, printing, or punching: strike a medallion. 10. To produce or play by manipulating strings or keys: strike a B flat; strike w, t, and y on the typewriter. 11. To indicate by a percussive or chiming sound: The clock struck nine. 12. To produce as if by playing a musical instrument: The report struck a positive note in the final paragraph. 13. a. To produce by friction or a blow: struck fire from the flints. b. To produce flame, light, or a spark from by friction: strike a match. 14. To remove or separate with or as if with a blow: struck the wasp from his shoulder; struck off the diseased branch with a machete. 15. To eliminate or expunge: strike a statement from the court records. 16. a. To come upon; discover: struck gold. b. To come to; attain: finally struck the main trail. 17. a. To fall upon; shine on: A bright light struck her face. b. To become audible to: An odd sound struck his ear. 18. To affect keenly or forcibly; impress. See note at affect 1 . 19. To enter one's mind; occur to: The thought struck me from out of the blue. 20. a. To cause (a strong emotion) to penetrate deeply: struck terror into their hearts. b. To affect or overcome with strong emotion: She was struck with alarm at the news. 21. a. To make and confirm the terms of (a bargain). b. To achieve (a balance, for example) by careful weighing or reckoning. 22. To take on or assume (a pose, for example). 23. Nautical a. To haul down (a mast or sail). b. To lower (a flag or sail) in salute or surrender. c. To lower (cargo) into a hold. 24. To remove (theatrical properties) from the stage. 25. To dismantle and pack up for departure: strike camp. 26. To undertake a strike against (an employer). 27. a. To level or even (a measure, as of grain). b. To smooth or shape with a strickle. 28. a. To send (plant roots) out or down. b. To cause (a plant cutting) to take root. v. intr. 1. To deal a blow or blows with or as if with the fist or a weapon; hit. 2. To aim a stroke or blow. 3. To make contact suddenly or violently; collide: A car and a bus struck at the intersection. 4. To begin a military attack: The enemy struck unexpectedly. 5. To penetrate or pierce: The cold struck right through our jackets. 6. To take bait: The fish are striking. 7. To dart or shoot suddenly forward in an attempt to inflict a bite or wound. Used of snakes and wild animals. 8. To set out or proceed, especially in a new direction: struck off into the forest. 9. To begin to move: The horse struck into a gallop. 10. a. To send out roots. b. To sprout. 11. a. To indicate the time by making a percussive or chiming sound: The clock struck just as we left. b. To become indicated by percussive or chiming sounds: The hour has struck. 12. To become ignited. 13. To discover something suddenly or unexpectedly: struck on a new approach. 14. To fall, as light or sound: sunlight striking on the cliffs; a din struck upon their ears. 15. To have an effect; make an impression. 16. To engage in a strike against an employer. 17. To interrupt by pushing oneself forward: struck rudely into the conversation. 18. To strive diligently for a specific technical rating in the U.S. Navy. n. 1. An act or a gesture of striking. 2. An attack, especially a military air attack on a single group of targets. 3. a. A cessation of work by employees in support of demands made on their employer, as for higher pay or improved conditions. b. A temporary stoppage of normal activity undertaken as a protest. 4. A sudden achievement or valuable discovery, as of a precious mineral. 5. a. The taking of bait by a fish. b. A pull on a fishing line indicating this. 6. A quantity of coins or medals struck at the same time. 7. Baseball a. A pitched ball that is counted against the batter, typically one that is swung at and missed, fouled off, or judged to have passed through the strike zone. b. A perfectly thrown ball. 8. An unfavorable condition, circumstance, or characteristic; a disadvantage. 9. Sports The knocking down of all the pins in bowling with the first bowl of a frame. 10. The taking root and growing of a plant cutting. 11. Geology The course or bearing of the outcrop of an inclined bed or structure on a level surface. 12. A strickle.

Phrasal Verbs: strike down 1. To cause to fall by a blow. 2. To incapacitate or kill: He was struck down by tuberculosis while in his twenties. 3. To render ineffective; cancel: The court struck down the law as unconstitutional. strike out 1. To begin a course of action. 2. To set out energetically. 3. Baseball a. To pitch three strikes to (a batter), putting the batter out. b. To be struck out. 4. To fail in an endeavor. strike up 1. a. To start to play music or sing: The band suddenly struck up. b. To start to play or sing (something): The orchestra struck up a waltz. c. To cause to start to play or sing: Strike up the band! 2. To initiate or begin: strike up a conversation; struck up a friendship.

Idioms: on strike 1. Engaged in a work stoppage: Most of the employees were on strike. strike hands 1. To conclude a bargain or reach an agreement. strike it rich Informal 1. To have sudden financial success. [Middle English striken from Old English strºcan to stroke; See streig- in Indo-European Roots.]

strip·ing ( strº"p¹ng) n. 1. The act or process of marking or decorating with stripes. 2. a. The stripes placed on something. b. A pattern of stripes.

stripe 1 ( strºp) n. 1. a. A long narrow band distinguished, as by color or texture, from the surrounding material or surface. b. A textile pattern of parallel bands or lines on a contrasting background. c. A fabric having such a pattern. 2. A strip of cloth or braid worn on a uniform to indicate rank, awards received, or length of service; a chevron. 3. Sort; kind: " All Fascists are not of one mind, one stripe " Lillian Hellman v. tr. striped strip·ing stripes 1. To mark with stripes or a stripe. [Middle English possibly from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German strºpe]

strive ( strºv) v. intr. strove ( str½v) striv·en ( str¹v"…n) or strived striv·ing strives 1. To exert much effort or energy; endeavor. 2. To struggle or fight forcefully; contend: strive against injustice. [Middle English striven from Old French estriver from estrit, estrif quarrel; See strife ] striv "er n. striv "ing·ly adv.

stroke 1 ( str½k) n. 1. The act or an instance of striking, as with the hand, a weapon, or a tool; a blow or an impact. 2. a. The striking of a bell or gong. b. The sound so produced. c. The time so indicated: at the stroke of midnight. 3. A sudden action or process having a strong impact or effect: a stroke of lightning. 4. A sudden occurrence or result: a stroke of luck; a stroke of misfortune. 5. A sudden severe attack, as of paralysis or sunstroke. 6. A sudden loss of brain function caused by a blockage or rupture of a blood vessel to the brain, characterized by loss of muscular control, diminution or loss of sensation or consciousness, dizziness, slurred speech, or other symptoms that vary with the extent and severity of the damage to the brain. Also Called cerebral accident Also Called cerebrovascular accident . 7. An inspired or effective idea or act: a stroke of genius. 8. a. A single uninterrupted movement, especially when repeated or in a back-and-forth motion: the stroke of a pendulum. b. Any of a series of movements of a piston from one end of the limit of its motion to another. 9. a. A single completed movement of the limbs and body, as in swimming or rowing. b. The manner or rate of executing such a movement: My favorite stroke is butterfly. She had a very rapid stroke. 10. Nautical a. The rower who sits nearest the coxswain or the stern and sets the tempo for the other rowers. b. The position occupied by this person. 11. Sports a. A movement of the upper torso and arms for the purpose of striking a ball, as in golf or tennis. b. The manner of executing such a movement. 12. a. A single mark made by a writing or marking implement, such as a pen. b. The act of making such a mark. c. A printed line in a graphic character that resembles such a mark. 13. A distinctive effect or deft touch, as in literary composition. v. stroked strok·ing strokes v. tr. 1. a. To mark with a single short line. b. To draw a line through; cancel: stroked out the last sentence. 2. Nautical To set the pace for (a rowing crew). 3. To hit or propel (a ball, for example) with a smoothly regulated swing. v. intr. 1. To make or perform a stroke. 2. Nautical To row at a particular rate per minute. [Middle English probably from Old English *str ³c;See streig- in Indo-European Roots.]

stroke 2 ( str½k) v. tr. stroked strok·ing strokes 1. To rub lightly, with or as if with the hand or something held in the hand; caress. 2. Informal To behave attentively or flatteringly toward, especially in order to restore to confidence or win over. n. 1. A light caressing movement, as of the hand. [Middle English stroken from Old English str³cian from *str ³c stroke; See stroke 1 ] strok "er n.

stub ( st¾b) n. 1. The usually short end remaining after something bigger has been used up: a pencil stub; a cigarette stub. See note at stob . 2. Something cut short or arrested in development: a stub of a tail. 3. a. The part of a check or receipt retained as a record. b. The part of a ticket returned as a voucher of payment. v. tr. stubbed stub·bing stubs 1. a. To pull up (weeds) by the roots. b. To clear (a field) of weeds. 2. To strike (one's toe or foot) against something accidentally. 3. To snuff out (a cigarette butt) by crushing. [Middle English stubbe tree stump from Old English stybb]

stud·ding ( st¾d"¹ng) n. 1. a. The wood framework of a wall or partition. b. Lumber cut for studs. 2. Something with which a surface is studded.

stud 1 ( st¾d) n. 1. An upright post in the framework of a wall for supporting sheets of lath, wallboard, or similar material. 2. A small knob, nail head, or rivet fixed in and slightly projecting from a surface. 3. a. A small ornamental button mounted on a short post for insertion through an eyelet, as on a dress shirt. b. A buttonlike earring mounted on a slender post, as of gold or steel, for wearing in a pierced earlobe. 4. a. Any of various protruding pins or pegs in machinery, used mainly as a support or pivot. b. One of a number of small metal cleats embedded in a snow tire to increase traction on slippery or snowy roads. 5. A metal crosspiece used as a brace in a link, as in a chain cable. v. tr. stud·ded stud·ding studs 1. To provide with or construct with studs or a stud. 2. To set with studs or a stud: stud a bracelet with rubies. 3. To be scattered over: Daisies studded the meadow. [Middle English stode from Old English studu; See st ³- in Indo-European Roots.]

stud·y ( st¾d"¶) n. pl. stud·ies 1. a. The act or process of studying. b. The pursuit of knowledge, as by reading, observation, or research. 2. Attentive scrutiny. 3. A branch of knowledge. 4. studies A branch or department of learning: graduate studies. 5. a. A work, such as a thesis, that results from studious endeavor. b. A literary work on a particular subject. c. A preliminary sketch, as for a work of art or literature. 6. Music A composition intended as a technical exercise. 7. A state of mental absorption: She is in a deep study. 8. A room intended or equipped for studying or writing. 9. a. One who memorizes something, especially a performer with reference to his or her ability to memorize a part: He is a quick study. b. Memorization of a part in a play. v. stud·ied stud·y·ing stud·ies v. tr. 1. To apply one's mind purposefully to the acquisition of knowledge or understanding of (a subject). 2. To read carefully. 3. To memorize. 4. To take (a course) at a school. 5. To inquire into; investigate. 6. To examine closely; scrutinize. 7. To give careful thought to; contemplate: study the next move. v. intr. 1. To apply oneself to learning, especially by reading. 2. To pursue a course of study. 3. To ponder; reflect. [Middle English studie from Old French estudie from Latin studium from stud¶re to study]

stuff·ing ( st¾f"¹ng) n. 1. a. Padding put in cushions and upholstered furniture. b. Food put into the cavity of a piece of meat or a hollowed-out vegetable.

stuff ( st¾f) n. 1. The material out of which something is made or formed; substance. 2. The essential substance or elements; essence: " We are such stuff/As dreams are made on " Shakespeare 3. Informal a. Unspecified material: Put that stuff over there. b. Household or personal articles considered as a group. c. Worthless objects. 4. Slang Specific talk or actions: Don't give me that stuff about being tired. 5. Sports a. The control a player has over a ball, especially to give it spin, english, curve, or speed. b. The spin, english, curve, or speed imparted to a ball: " where we could watch the stuff, mainly curves, that the pitchers were putting on the ball " James Henry Gray 6. Special capability: The team really showed its stuff and won the championship. 7. Chiefly British Woven material, especially woolens. 8. Slang Money; cash. 9. Slang A habit-forming drug, especially heroin. v. stuffed stuff·ing stuffs v. tr. 1. a. To pack tightly; cram: stuff a Christmas stocking. b. To block (a passage); plug: stuff a crack with caulking. 2. a. To fill with an appropriate stuffing: stuff a pillow. b. To fill (an animal skin) to restore its natural form for mounting or display. 3. To cram with food. 4. To fill (the mind): His head is stuffed with silly notions. 5. To put fraudulent votes into (a ballot box). 6. To apply a preservative and softening agent to (leather). v. intr. 1. To overeat; gorge.

Idioms: stuff it Vulgar Slang 1. Used as an intensive to express extreme anger, frustration, or disgust. stuff (one's) face Slang 1. To eat greedily. [Middle English from Old French estoffe from estoffer to equip of Germanic origin] stuff "er n.

stum ( st¾m) n. 1. Unfermented or partly fermented grape juice; must. 2. Vapid wine renewed by an admixture of stum. v. tr. stummed stum·ming stums 1. To ferment (vapid wine) by adding stum. [Dutch stom dumb, stum from Middle Dutch]

stump ( st¾mp) n. 1. The part of a tree trunk left protruding from the ground after the tree has fallen or has been felled. 2. A part, as of a branch, limb, or tooth, remaining after the main part has been cut away, broken off, or worn down. 3. a. stumps Informal The legs. b. An artificial leg. 4. A short, thickset person. 5. A heavy footfall. 6. A place or an occasion used for political or campaign oratory: candidates out on the stump. 7. A short, pointed roll of leather or paper or wad of rubber for rubbing on a charcoal or pencil drawing to shade or soften it. 8. Sports Any one of the three upright sticks in a cricket wicket. v. tr. stumped stump·ing stumps 1. To reduce to a stump. 2. To clear stumps from: stump a field. 3. To stub (a toe or foot). 4. To traverse (a district) making political speeches: a candidate stumping the state. 5. To shade (a drawing) with a stump. 6. Informal To challenge (someone); defy. 7. Informal To bring to a halt; baffle. [Middle English stumpe possibly from Middle Low German stump] stump "er n. stump "i·ness n. stump "y adj.

stun·ning ( st¾n"¹ng) adj. 1. Causing or capable of causing emotional shock or loss of consciousness. 2. Of a strikingly attractive appearance. 3. a. Impressive: gave a stunning performance. b. Surprising: The President's final decision came with stunning suddenness. stun "ning·ly adv.

stun ( st¾n) v. tr. stunned stun·ning stuns 1. To daze or render senseless, by or as if by a blow. 2. To overwhelm or daze with a loud noise. 3. To stupefy, as with the emotional impact of an experience; astound. See note at daze . n. 1. A blow or shock that stupefies. [Middle English stonen Old French estoner from Vulgar Latin *exton ³re Latin ex- ex-Latin ton³re to thunder; See (s)ten …- in Indo-European Roots.]

stunt 1 ( st¾nt) v. tr. stunt·ed stunt·ing stunts 1. To check the growth or development of. n. 1. One that stunts. 2. One that is stunted. 3. A plant disease that causes dwarfing. [From Middle English stunnt foolish, short-witted, short( influenced by Old Norse stuttr short, dwarfish) from Old English stunt] stunt "ed·ness n.

stunt 2 ( st¾nt) n. 1. A feat displaying unusual strength, skill, or daring. 2. Something of an unusual nature done for publicity. v. intr. stunt·ed stunt·ing stunts 1. To perform stunts or a stunt. [Origin unknown]

sty·mie also sty·my ( stº"m¶) v. tr. sty·mied ( -m¶d) sty·mie·ing also sty·my·ing ( -m¶-¹ng) sty·mies ( -m¶z) 1. To thwart; stump: a problem in thermodynamics that stymied half the class. n. 1. An obstacle or obstruction. 2. Sports A situation in golf in which an opponent's ball obstructs the line of play of one's own ball on the putting green. [Origin unknown]