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March
US
/mɑːrtʃ/
UK
/mɑːtʃ/
the third month of the year, after February and before April
Persian equivalent:
Example:
She started work here last March.
the third month of the year, after February and before April
She started work here last March.
March
noun
the third month of the year
March
March BrE AmE noun [uncountable and countable] (written abbreviation Mar.)
[Date: 1200-1300; Language: Old French; Origin: Latin martius, from martius 'of Mars, god of war']
the third month of the year, between February and April
next/last March
She started work here last March.
in March
The theatre opened in March 2001.
on March 6th
There’s a meeting on March 6th.
on 6th March British English:
I wrote to my bank on 6th March.
March 6 American English:
The hospital is scheduled to open March 6.
March
March BrE AmE noun [uncountable and countable] (written abbreviation Mar.)
[Date: 1200-1300; Language: Old French; Origin: Latin martius, from martius 'of Mars, god of war']
the third month of the year, between February and April
next/last March
She started work here last March.
in March
The theatre opened in March 2001.
on March 6th
There’s a meeting on March 6th.
on 6th March British English:
I wrote to my bank on 6th March.
March 6 American English:
The hospital is scheduled to open March 6.
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
March / mɑːtʃ / / mɑːrtʃ / noun [ C or U ] ( written abbreviation Mar. )
A1 the third month of the year, after February and before April:
The next meeting will be in March.
He left on 26 March .
She is retiring next March.
© Cambridge University Press 2013
March
♦
Marches
N-VAR
March is the third month of the year in the Western calendar.
I flew to Milan in early March...
She was born in Austria on March 6, 1920...
The election could be held as early as next March.
March
March /ˈmɑɚʧ/ noun, pl March·es : the third month of the year
[noncount]
• in (early/middle/mid-/late) March
• early/late in March
• We arrived on March the fourth. = (US) We arrived on March fourth. = We arrived on the fourth of March.
[count]
• Sales are up (for) this March.
• It happens every March.
✦The saying March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb means that the month of March begins with bad weather and ends with good weather.
- abbr. Mar.;
I opened the refrigerator to take out some orange juice.
A piece of kitchen equipment that uses electricity to preserve food at a cold temperature
I opened the refrigerator to take out some orange juice.
refrigerator
noun American English for fridge
refrigerator
re‧fri‧ge‧ra‧tor S3 /rɪˈfrɪdʒəreɪtə $ -ər/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
British English formal or American English a large piece of electrical kitchen equipment, shaped like a cupboard, used for keeping food and drink cool SYN fridge ⇨ freezer
refrigerator
re·friger·ator [refrigerator refrigerators] [rɪˈfrɪdʒəreɪtə(r)] [rɪˈfrɪdʒəreɪtər] noun (formal or NAmE)
= fridge
• This dessert can be served straight from the refrigerator.
Example Bank:
• I opened the refrigerator to take out some orange juice.
• I stocked the refrigerator with fruit.
• I'll raid your refrigerator while we talk.
• Place the dough in the refrigerator overnight.
• The refrigerator was humming in the corner.
• a refrigerator stocked with food
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
refrigerator / rɪˈfrɪdʒ. ə r.eɪ.tə r / / -ɚ.eɪ.t̬ɚ / noun [ C ]
A1 US or UK formal for fridge
© Cambridge University Press 2013
refrigerator
/rɪfrɪdʒəreɪtə(r)/
(refrigerators)
A refrigerator is a large container which is kept cool inside, usually by electricity, so that the food and drink in it stays fresh.
= fridge
N-COUNT
refrigerator
re·frig·er·a·tor /rɪˈfrɪʤəˌreɪtɚ/ noun, pl -tors [count] : a device or room that is used to keep things (such as food and drinks) cold - called also fridge;
the second month of the year, after January and before March
I was born in February.
February
noun
the second month of the year
February
Feb‧ru‧a‧ry /ˈfebruəri, ˈfebjʊri $ ˈfebjueri/ BrE AmE noun [uncountable and countable] (written abbreviation Feb.)
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Latin; Origin: Februarius, from Februa, Roman religious ceremony in February to make things pure]
the second month of the year, between January and March
next/last February
Mum died last February.
in February
We can do it in February.
on February 6th
She was allowed home on February 6th.
on 6th February British English:
Francis was born on 6th February 1928.
February 6 American English:
I finally arrived February 6.
February
Feb·ru·ary [February Februaries] [ˈfebruəri] [ˈfebrueri] noun uncountable, countable (abbr. Feb.)
the 2nd month of the year, between January and March To see how February is used, look at the examples at April.
Word Origin:
Middle English feverer, from Old French feverier, based on Latin februarius, from februa, the name of a purification feast held in this month. The spelling change in the 15th cent. was due to association with the Latin word.
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
February / ˈfeb.ru. ə r.i / / -ruː.er- / noun [ C or U ] ( written abbreviation Feb. )
A1 the second month of the year, after January and before March:
Building work is expected to start in February.
I was born on 5 February .
We moved house last February.
© Cambridge University Press 2013
February
[fe̱bjuəri, AM -jueri]
♦
Februaries
N-VAR
February is the second month of the year in the Western calendar.
He joined the Army in February 1943...
His exhibition opens on 5 February...
Last February the tribunal agreed he had been the victim of racial discrimination.
February
Feb·ru·ary /ˈfɛbjəˌweri, ˈfɛbrəˌweri/ noun, pl -ar·ies or -ar·ys : the second month of the year
[noncount]
• in (early/middle/mid-/late) February
• early/late in February
• We arrived on February the fourth. = (US) We arrived on February fourth. = We arrived on the fourth of February.
[count]
• Sales are up (for) this February in comparison with the previous two Februaries.
- abbr. Feb.;
I fell asleep on the sofa.
A long, soft seat with a back and usually arms, on which more than one person can sit at the same time
I fell asleep on the sofa.
sofa
(also couch) (British also settee) noun
a long soft seat for more than one person:
Jane and Bob were sitting on the sofa.
sofa
so‧fa /ˈsəʊfə $ ˈsoʊ-/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
[Date: 1600-1700; Language: Arabic; Origin: suffah 'long seat']
a comfortable seat with raised arms and a back, that is wide enough for two or three people to sit on SYN couch, settee British English
sofa
sofa [sofa sofas] [ˈsəʊfə] [ˈsoʊfə] noun
a long comfortable seat with a back and arms, for two or more people to sit on
Syn: settee, Syn: couch
Word Origin:
early 17th cent.: from French, based on Arabic ṣuffa.
Example Bank:
• Amy collapsed on her overstuffed leather sofa.
• He got up from the sofa to fetch some drinks.
• He slumped back on the sofa in tears.
• I fell asleep on the sofa.
• I might have to hide behind the sofa if the movie gets too scary!
• I spent the evening sprawled on the sofa, watching TV.
• I was lying on my living-room sofa.
• She sank into the deep sofa.
• She was curled up on the sofa.
• The convertible sofa means that the apartment can sleep four.
• a sofa bed
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
sofa / ˈsəʊ.fə / / ˈsoʊ- / noun [ C ] ( UK also settee )
sofa
A2 a long, soft seat with a back and usually arms, on which more than one person can sit at the same time
© Cambridge University Press 2013
sofa
/soʊfə/
(sofas)
A sofa is a long, comfortable seat with a back and usually with arms, which two or three people can sit on.
= settee, couch
N-COUNT
sofa
so·fa /ˈsoʊfə/ noun, pl -fas [count] : a long and comfortable piece of furniture on which a person can sit or lie down
A dinner table
A flat surface, usually supported by four legs, used for putting things on
A dinner table
table
noun
1 a piece of furniture with a flat top on legs:
a coffee table
2 a list of facts or numbers:
There is a table of irregular verbs at the back of this dictionary.
table
I. ta‧ble1 S1 W1 /ˈteɪbəl/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
[Date: 1100-1200; Language: Old French; Origin: Latin tabula 'board, list']
1. FURNITURE a piece of furniture with a flat top supported by legs:
The food was served on long tables. ⇨ ↑coffee table, ↑dressing table
2. RESTAURANT a table for people to eat at in a restaurant :
I've booked a table for two.
3. SPORT/GAME snooker/billiard/ping-pong etc table a special table for playing a particular indoor sport or game on
4. LIST a list of numbers, facts, or information arranged in rows across and down a page
table of
a table of results
the table of contents
5. on the table an offer, idea etc that is on the table has been officially suggested and someone is considering it:
The offer on the table is a 10% wage increase.
6. turn the tables (on somebody) to change a situation completely, so that someone loses an advantage and you gain one:
The tables were turned in the second half, when Leeds United scored from the penalty spot.
7. under the table informal money that is paid under the table is paid secretly and illegally:
Payments were made under the table to local officials.
8. MATHS times table a list that young children learn, in which all the numbers between 1 and 12 are multiplied by each other SYN multiplication table
three/four etc times table
He’s 12 years old and still doesn’t know his three times table.
9. GROUP the group of people sitting around a table:
His stories kept the whole table amused.
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ verbs
▪ set/lay the table (=put knives, forks etc on a table before a meal) The table was set for fourteen.
▪ clear the table (=take plates etc off) Do you want me to clear the table?
▪ sit at a table He was sitting at a corner table.
▪ sit around a table We sat around the table and talked.
▪ get up from/leave the table She stood up from her chair and left the table.
▪ book/reserve a table (=in a restaurant) I've booked a table for four at a local restaurant.
■ NOUN + table
▪ dinner/breakfast table Will you clear the breakfast table?
▪ bedside/kitchen/dining-room table They were chatting around the kitchen table.
table
table [table tables tabled tabling] noun, verb [ˈteɪbl] [ˈteɪbl]
noun
FURNITURE
1. a piece of furniture that consists of a flat top supported by legs
• a kitchen table
• A table for two, please (= in a restaurant).
• I'd like to book a table for tonight (= in a restaurant).
• to set the table (= to put the plates, knives, etc. on it for a meal)
• (BrE also) to lay the table
• to clear the table (= take away the dirty plates, etc. at the end of a meal)
• He questioned her next morning over the breakfast table (= during breakfast).
• (BrE, formal) Children must learn to behave at table.
• a billiard/snooker/pool table There are many compounds ending in table. You will find them at their place in the alphabet.
PEOPLE
2. the people sitting at a table for a meal or to play cards, etc
• He kept the whole table entertained with his jokes.
see also round-table
LIST OF FACTS/NUMBERS
3. a list of facts or numbers arranged in a special order, usually in rows and columns
• a table of contents (= a list of the main points or information in a book, usually at the front of the book)
• Table 2 shows how prices and earnings have increased over the past 20 years.
see also periodic table
IN SPORT
4. a list of sports teams, countries, schools, etc. that shows their position in a competition, etc
• If Arsenal win this game they'll go to the top of the table.
• school performance league tables
MATHEMATICS
5. = multiplication table
• Do you know your six times table?
see also turntable, water table
more at lay/put your cards on the table at card n., drink sb under the table at drink v., wait at tablewait tables at wait v.
Word Origin:
Old English tabule ‘flat slab, inscribed tablet’, from Latin tabula ‘plank, tablet, list’, reinforced in Middle English by Old French table.
Example Bank:
• He left the table in a hurry.
• He showed the price fluctuations in a statistical table.
• James crawled out from under the table.
• My father always sits at the head of the table.
• Please lay the table for six.
• See Table XII for population figures.
• She leaned across the table and kissed him.
• She often does her homework at the kitchen table.
• She put the vase on the table.
• The league table shows the Danish team in first place with eight points.
• The potato rolled under the table.
• The team will be lucky to finish the season mid-table.
• They flirted over the dinner table.
• They spent hours around the negotiating table.
• They were all five of them sitting around the kitchen table.
• United are second in the table.
• We arranged the party food on a trestle table in the garden.
• We booked a table at the restaurant for 8 p.m.
• We found an empty table at the back of the restaurant.
• We gathered around the table to hear his news.
• We never discuss politics at the breakfast table.
• We turned the box upside down and used it as a makeshift table.
• We'll take the corner table near the bar, please.
• You clear the table and I'll wash the dishes.
• school league tables
• to sit down at the table
• Table 2 shows how prices and earnings have increased over the last 20 years.
• a table of contents
Idioms: bring something to the party ▪ on the table ▪ turn the tables
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
table / ˈteɪ.bl̩ / noun (FURNITURE)
table
A1 [ C ] a flat surface, usually supported by four legs, used for putting things on [ + sing/pl verb ] the people sitting at a table:
There was a really noisy table behind us celebrating someone's birthday.
[ C ] Indian English a table that you work at in an office
→ See also desk (TABLE)
lay/set the table B1 to put a cloth, knives, and forks, etc. on the table in preparation for a meal:
Could you lay the table for lunch, please?
table / ˈteɪ.bl̩ / noun (INFORMATION)
B1 [ C ] an arrangement of facts and numbers in rows or blocks, especially in printed material [ C ] a multiplication table table of contents
a list of the information that is contained in a book
© Cambridge University Press 2013
table
/teɪb(ə)l/
(tables, tabling, tabled)
Frequency: The word is one of the 1500 most common words in English.
1.
A table is a piece of furniture with a flat top that you put things on or sit at.
She was sitting at the kitchen table eating a currant bun...
I placed his drink on the small table at his elbow.
N-COUNT
2.
If someone tables a proposal, they say formally that they want it to be discussed at a meeting. (mainly BRIT)
They’ve tabled a motion criticising the Government for doing nothing about the problem.
= propose
VERB: V n
3.
If someone tables a proposal or plan which has been put forward, they decide to discuss it or deal with it at a later date, rather than straight away. (AM)
We will table that for later.
VERB: V n
4.
A table is a written set of facts and figures arranged in columns and rows.
Consult the table on page 104...
Other research supports the figures in Table 3.3.
N-COUNT: also N num
5.
see also coffee table, dressing table, negotiating table, round table, tea table
6.
If you put something on the table, you present it at a meeting for it to be discussed.
This is one of the best packages we’ve put on the table in years...
PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR
7.
If you turn the tables on someone, you change the situation completely, so that instead of them causing problems for you, you are causing problems for them.
The only question is whether the President can use his extraordinary political skills to turn the tables on his opponents.
PHRASE: V inflects, oft PHR on n
1ta·ble /ˈteɪbəl/ noun, pl tables [count]
1 a : a piece of furniture that has a flat top and one or more legs
• They were sitting at/around the dining/dinner table.
• She reserved a table for two at the restaurant.
• Please set the table for dinner. [=place plates, silverware, etc., on the table]
- see also coffee table, end table
b : a piece of furniture with a flat surface that is designed to be used for a particular purpose
• a billiard/poker table
- see also card table, drawing table, negotiating table, operating table
2 : a group of people who are sitting at a table
• He had the attention of the entire table.
3 : a collection of information that is arranged in rows and columns
• The table shows the salary of each employee.
- see also multiplication table, periodic table, times table
at table Brit : sitting at a table and eating a meal
• The whole family was at table.
lay/put (all/all of) your cards on the table
- see 1card
on the table : able to be considered or discussed
• All options are on the table.
• A new contract offer is on the table.
run the table chiefly US
1 pool, billiards, etc. : to hit all the remaining balls into pockets without missing
2 informal : to win all the remaining games, points, etc.
• The team could run the table to win the league championship.
table of contents
- see 1content
turn the tables : to change a situation completely so that you have an advantage over someone who previously had an advantage over you - often + on
• He turned the tables on his attacker and pinned him to the ground.
under the table
1
- used to describe a situation in which a worker is being paid in a secret and illegal way in order to avoid paying taxes
• They were paying her under the table.
• He's working under the table.
2 informal
✦To drink someone under the table means to drink more alcohol than someone else without becoming extremely drunk, unconscious, etc.
• He tried to drink me under the table.
The group are known for their belief in witchcraft and magic.
the use of special powers to make things happen that would usually be impossible, such as in stories for children
I don't believe in magic.
magic
noun (no plural)
1 a special power that can make strange or impossible things happen:
He suddenly appeared as if by magic.
2 clever tricks that somebody can do to entertain people
>> magic adjective:
magic tricks
magic
I. ma‧gic1 W3 /ˈmædʒɪk/ BrE AmE noun [uncountable]
[Word Family: noun: ↑magic, ↑magician; adjective: ↑magic, ↑magical; adverb: ↑magically]
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: French; Origin: magique, from Latin magice, from Greek magike, from magos 'person with magic powers']
1. the power to make impossible things happen by saying special words or doing special actions:
Do you believe in magic? ⇨ black magic, ↑white magic
2. a special, attractive, or exciting quality:
Paris has lost some of its magic for me over the years.
magic of
the magic of Christmas
3. the skill of doing tricks that look like magic in order to entertain people, or the tricks that are done SYN conjuring
4. like magic/as if by magic in a surprising way that seems impossible to explain:
As if by magic the waiter suddenly appeared with a tray of drinks.
5. work/weave your magic if something or someone works or weaves their magic, they produce a good change or effect in a way that they are often able to do:
The warm weather and the beautiful scenery began to work their magic and she started to relax.
6. work like magic to be very effective
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ verbs
▪ do magic In the story, the children are not allowed to do magic out of school.
▪ work magic (=do magic) What do you expect me to do? I can’t work magic!
▪ use magic By using magic, he can order the ghost of any dead person to be his servant.
■ adjectives
▪ black magic (=intended to harm people) The candles had been used for black magic.
▪ ancient magic The place seemed full of shadows and ancient magic.
▪ strong/powerful magic Her fingers moved to make the sign that protected against strong magic.
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ magic noun [uncountable] the power to make impossible things happen, by saying special words or doing special actions: In the story, she uses magic to turn him into a frog. | Local people believe that he can heal wounds and illnesses using magic.
▪ witchcraft noun [uncountable] the use of magic, usually to do bad things: Hundreds of women were accused of witchcraft in the 1600s.
▪ spell noun [countable] a special set of words or actions that are used to make something happen by magic: a magic spell | An evil witch cast a spell on him (=said a special set of words or did a special series of actions, in order to make something happen to someone by magic), turning him into a beast.
▪ curse (also hex American English) noun [countable] something that makes someone or something have bad luck: The house seemed to have a curse on it. | People believed the pharaoh would put a curse on (=use magic to make them have bad luck)anyone who broke into the tomb. | She believed her former husband had put a hex on her.
▪ the occult mysterious powers and events that involve magic and spirits: He was very interested in the occult.
▪ voodoo noun [uncountable] magical beliefs and practices used as a form of religion: a voodoo curse | In Haiti, the people still practice voodoo.
magic
magic [magic magics magicked magicking] noun, adjective, verb [ˈmædʒɪk] [ˈmædʒɪk]
noun uncountable
1. the secret power of appearing to make impossible things happen by saying special words or doing special things
• Do you believe in magic?
• a place of secret shadows and ancient magic
• He suddenly appeared as if by magic.
• A passage was cleared through the crowd like magic.
see also black magic
2. the art of doing tricks that seem impossible in order to entertain people
Syn: conjuring
3. a special quality or ability that sb/sth has, that seems too wonderful to be real
Syn: enchantment
• dance and music which capture the magic of India
• He loved the magic and mystery of the place.
• Like all truly charismatic people, he can work his magic on both men and women.
• Our year in Italy was pure/sheer magic.
• He's returning to the team this season, hoping that the old magic can be made to work once more.
see weave your magic at weave v.
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from Old French magique, from Latin magicus (adjective), late Latin magica (noun), from Greek magikē (tekhnē) ‘(art of) a magus’: magi were regarded as magicians.
Thesaurus:
magic noun U
• Do you believe in magic?
witchcraft • • black magic • • the supernatural • • the occult • • conjuring • |written sorcery •
do sth by magic/sorcery
use magic/witchcraft/sorcery
a magic/conjuring trick
Example Bank:
• A hot bath and a good night's sleep worked their usual magic.
• Fans agree the musical magic is still there.
• He earns extra money doing magic at children's parties.
• I don't believe in magic.
• It's the director's job to make the magic happen.
• Many people think he has lost his magic as a player.
• People found guilty of practising black magic were hanged.
• Prospero uses his magic to attack them.
• The film fails to recapture the magic of his earlier films.
• The fireworks brought a touch of magic to the occasion.
• The magic slowly begins to work, and the princess starts to come to life again.
• The money had reappeared as if by magic.
• The rabbit disappeared by magic.
• The show is three hours of pure magic.
• Visitors can experience the magic of age-old traditions and historical sites.
• A passage was cleared through the crowd like magic.
• He suddenly appeared as if by magic.
• This was a place of secret shadows and ancient magic.
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
magic / ˈmædʒ.ɪk / noun [ U ] (SPECIAL POWER)
A2 the use of special powers to make things happen that would usually be impossible, such as in stories for children:
The group are known for their belief in witchcraft and magic.
As if by magic/ Like magic, the car changes into a boat when it hits the water.
A2 the skill of performing tricks to entertain people, such as making things appear and disappear and pretending to cut someone in half:
He's a comedian who also does magic.
magic / ˈmædʒ.ɪk / noun [ U ] (SPECIAL QUALITY)
B2 a special and exciting quality that makes something seem different from ordinary things:
Although the film was made 50 years ago, it has lost none of its magic.
No one could fail to be charmed by the magic of this beautiful city.
© Cambridge University Press 2013
magic
[mæ̱ʤɪk]
1) N-UNCOUNT Magic is the power to use supernatural forces to make impossible things happen, such as making people disappear or controlling events in nature.
They believe in magic.
...the use of magic to combat any adverse powers or influences...
Older legends say that Merlin raised the stones by magic.
2) N-UNCOUNT You can use magic when you are referring to an event that is so wonderful, strange, or unexpected that it seems as if supernatural powers have caused it. You can also say that something happens as if by magic or like magic.
All this was supposed to work magic...
The picture will now appear, as if by magic!...
The fog disappeared like magic.
3) ADJ: ADJ n You use magic to describe something that does things, or appears to do things, by magic.
So it's a magic potion?
...the magic ingredient that helps to keep skin looking smooth.
4) N-UNCOUNT: oft N n Magic is the art and skill of performing mysterious tricks to entertain people, for example by making things appear and disappear.
His secret hobby: performing magic tricks.
5) N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp If you refer to the magic of something, you mean that it has a special mysterious quality which makes it seem wonderful and exciting to you and which makes you feel happy.
It infected them with some of the magic of a lost age...
There can be a magic about love that defies all explanation...
There were also moments of pure magic.
ADJ-GRADED
Magic is also an adjective. Then came those magic moments in the rose-garden.
6) N-UNCOUNT: usu with poss If you refer to a person's magic, you mean a special talent or ability that they have, which you admire or consider very impressive.
The 32-year-old Jamaican-born fighter believes he can still regain some of his old magic.
7) ADJ: the ADJ n You can use expressions such as the magic number and the magic word to indicate that a number or word is the one which is significant or desirable in a particular situation.
...their quest to gain the magic number of 270 electoral votes on Election Day.
...the magic word that opened doors onto private worlds.
8) ADJ: ADJ n, with neg Magic is used in expressions such as there is no magic formula and there is no magic solution to say that someone will have to make an effort to solve a problem, because it will not solve itself.
There is no magic formula for producing winning products...
There is no magic cure.
9) ADJ-GRADED (approval) If you say that something is magic, you think it is very good or enjoyable. [mainly BRIT, INFORMAL]
It was magic - one of the best days of my life.
Syn:
great
1mag·ic /ˈmæʤɪk/ noun [noncount]
1 : a power that allows people (such as witches and wizards) to do impossible things by saying special words or performing special actions
• perform/work (feats of) magic
• children who believe in magic
- see also black magic
2 : tricks that seem to be impossible and that are done by a performer to entertain people
• a book that explains how to do magic
3 : special power, influence, or skill
• Some doubted the company could ever get back its former magic. [=could ever succeed again as it had succeeded before]
• Both pitchers, though they are older, haven't lost their magic.
4 : a very pleasant, attractive, or exciting quality
• the magic of their singing
• They wanted to get the old magic back into their marriage.
by magic : by the power of magic
• a mop that gets rid of dirt as if by magic
like magic informal : in a very fast and impressive way
• Shapes changed like magic on the computer screen.
• a mop that works like magic [=that works extremely quickly or well]
work your magic
1 : to do something very well
• the kitchen where a great cook works her magic
2 : to have a desired good effect
• It may take a few hours for the medication to work its magic.
You can install a new sink in the bathroom.
A bowl that is fixed to the wall in a kitchen or bathroom in which you wash dishes or your hands, etc
You can install a new sink in the bathroom.
sink
noun
the place in a kitchen where you wash dishes
II. sink2 S3 BrE AmE noun [countable]
a large open container that you fill with water and use for washing yourself, washing dishes etc ⇨ basin:
Dirty plates were piled high in the sink.
noun
1. a large open container in a kitchen that has taps/faucets to supply water and that you use for washing dishes in
• Don't just leave your dirty plates in the sink!
• I felt chained to the kitchen sink (= I had to spend all my time doing jobs in the house).
2. (especially NAmE) = washbasin
see everything but the kitchen sink at kitchen
Word Origin:
v. Old English sincan Germanic Dutch zinken German sinken
n. Middle English sink
Example Bank:
• Don't pour tea leaves down the kitchen sink— it'll get blocked.
• I bought a sink plunger to clear the blocked kitchen sink.
• Put the dishes in the sink.
• She filled the sink with hot water.
• She was at the sink, washing the dishes.
• She was at the sink, washing up the dinner things.
• The kitchen had a double sink.
• You can install a new sink in the kitchen.
• the sink counter in the bathroom
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
sink / sɪŋk / noun [ C ]
A2 a bowl that is fixed to the wall in a kitchen or bathroom in which you wash dishes or your hands, etc.:
a bathroom/kitchen sink
© Cambridge University Press 2013
sink
/sɪŋk/
(sinks, sinking, sank, sunk)
Frequency: The word is one of the 3000 most common words in English.
1.
A sink is a large fixed container in a kitchen, with taps to supply water. It is mainly used for washing dishes.
The sink was full of dirty dishes.
...the kitchen sink.
N-COUNT
2.
A sink is the same as a washbasin or basin.
The bathroom is furnished with 2 toilets, 2 showers, and 2 sinks.
N-COUNT
3.
If a boat sinks or if someone or something sinks it, it disappears below the surface of a mass of water.
In a naval battle your aim is to sink the enemy’s ship...
The boat was beginning to sink fast...
The lifeboat crashed against the side of the sinking ship.
VERB: V n, V, V-ing
• sink‧ing (sinkings)
...the sinking of the Titanic.
N-COUNT
4.
If something sinks, it disappears below the surface of a mass of water.
A fresh egg will sink and an old egg will float.
≠ float
VERB: V
5.
If something sinks, it moves slowly downwards.
Far off to the west the sun was sinking...
VERB: V
6.
If something sinks to a lower level or standard, it falls to that level or standard.
Share prices would have sunk–hurting small and big investors...
Pay increases have sunk to around seven per cent...
The pound had sunk 10 per cent against the Schilling.
= fall
VERB: V, V to/from/by amount/n, V amount
7.
People use sink school or sink estate to refer to a school or housing estate that is in a very poor area with few resources. (BRIT JOURNALISM)
...unemployed teenagers from sink estates...
ADJ: ADJ n
8.
If your heart or your spirits sink, you become depressed or lose hope.
My heart sank because I thought he was going to dump me for another girl...
VERB: V
9.
If something sharp sinks or is sunk into something solid, it goes deeply into it.
I sank my teeth into a peppermint cream...
The spade sank into a clump of overgrown bushes.
VERB: V n into n, V into n
10.
If someone sinks a well, mine, or other large hole, they make a deep hole in the ground, usually by digging or drilling.
...the site where Stephenson sank his first mineshaft...
VERB: V n
11.
If you sink money into a business or project, you spend money on it in the hope of making more money.
He has already sunk $25million into the project.
= plough
VERB: V n into n
12.
see also sinking, sunk
13.
If you say that someone will have to sink or swim, you mean that they will have to succeed through their own efforts, or fail.
The government doesn’t want to force inefficient firms to sink or swim too quickly...
to sink without trace: see trace
PHRASE
sink
2sink noun, pl sinks [count] : a wide bowl that has a faucet for water and a drain at the bottom and is usually positioned in a counter or on a pedestal
• a kitchen sink
• (chiefly US) a bathroom sink [=(chiefly Brit) washbasin]
- see pictures at bathroom, kitchen
she ran the bath
UK ( US bathtub ) a long plastic, metal, or ceramic container that is filled with water so that a person can sit or lie in it to wash their whole body
she ran the bath
bath
noun (plural baths )
1 (British) (American bathtub) a large container that you fill with water and sit in to wash your body
2 washing your body in a bath:
I had a bath this morning.
bath
I. bath1 S2 W3 /bɑːθ $ bæθ/ BrE AmE noun (plural baths /bɑːðz, bɑːθs $ bæðz, bæθs/) [countable]
[Language: Old English; Origin: bæth]
1. if you take a bath, you wash your body in a bath:
After a week of camping, I really needed a bath.
have a bath British English take a bath American English:
I’ll have a bath and go to bed.
How often do you take a bath?
I’ll give the children their bath (=wash them in a bath).
2. British English a large long container that you fill with water and sit or lie in to wash yourself SYN bathtub American English
3. water that you sit or lie in to wash yourself:
a hot bath
She ran a bath (=put water into a bath).
4. a bathroom, used especially in advertising:
All our luxury bedrooms have a private bath.
5. a container full of liquid in which something is placed for a particular purpose
bath of
Plunge the fabric into a bath of black dye.
6. baths [plural]
a) British English old-fashioned a public building in which there is a swimming pool
b) a public building where people could go in the past to wash themselves:
the Roman baths at Cirencester
7. take a bath American English informal to lose money, especially in a business deal:
We took a bath in the market over that stock.
⇨ ↑birdbath, ↑bubble bath, ⇨ throw the baby out with the bath water at ↑throw1(37)
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ verbs
▪ have a bath especially British English, take a bath especially American English She usually has a bath in the evening.
▪ give somebody a bath He's upstairs giving the baby a bath.
▪ get in/into/out of the bath I had to get out of the bath to answer the phone.
■ ADJECTIVES/NOUN + bath
▪ a quick bath It's easier to take a shower than a quick bath.
▪ a long bath A long hot bath is a great way of relaxing.
▪ a hot/warm/cool bath Why don't you have a nice warm bath?
▪ a bubble bath (=with nice-smelling bubbles in it) She likes to destress by taking a bubble bath.
■ bath + NOUN
▪ bath time (=the time when someone, usually a child, has a bath) Come on, Lucy, it's bath time.
▪ bath taps British English The water coming out of the bath taps was freezing cold.
▪ a bath towel She handed him a soft white bath towel.
▪ a bath mat (=small rug on the floor by the bath) The bath mat was soaking wet.
▪ bath water The bath water is getting cold.
▪ bath salts/crystals (=a substance that you put in a bath to make it smell nice) She bought me some lavender bath salts.
▪ bath toy (=for a child to play with in the bath) Bath toys are great for babies who've just learned to sit.
bath
bath [bath baths bathed bathing] noun, verb [bɑːθ] [bæθ]
noun (pl. baths [bɑːðz] ; [bæðz] )
1. countable (BrE) (also bathtub, informal tub NAmE, BrE) a large, long container that you put water in and then get into to wash your whole body
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
bath / bɑːθ / / bæθ / noun
bath
A1 [ C ] UK ( US bathtub ) a long plastic, metal, or ceramic container that is filled with water so that a person can sit or lie in it to wash their whole body A1 [ C usually singular ] the activity of washing yourself or someone else in a bath:
mainly UK Susannah has a long hot bath every evening.
mainly US I took a bath this morning.
bath oil
run a bath UK ( US fill the tub ) to fill a bath with water for washing:
I'll run you a bath while you take off those wet clothes.
[ C ] US used to refer to a bathroom when describing a home:
a four-bedroom two-bath house
[ C ] UK a health treatment:
mud/thermal baths
[ C ] UK any container holding liquid:
a bird bath
baths [ C , + sing/pl verb ] ( plural baths )
UK old-fashioned → swimming baths a public place where people went in the past to have a hot bath
© Cambridge University Press 2013
bath
/bɑ:θ, bæθ/
When the form 'baths' is the plural of the noun it is pronounced /bɑ:ðz/ or /bæθs/ in British English, and /bæðz/ in American English. When it is used in the present tense of the verb, it is pronounced /bɑ:θs/ or /bæθs/.
(baths bathing, bathed)
Frequency: The word is one of the 3000 most common words in English.
1.
A bath is a container, usually a long rectangular one, which you fill with water and sit in while you wash your body. (BRIT; in AM, use bathtub)
In those days, only quite wealthy families had baths of their own.
N-COUNT
2.
When you have or take a bath, or when you are in the bath, you sit or lie in a bath filled with water in order to wash your body.
...if you have a bath every morning...
Take a shower instead of a bath.
N-COUNT
3.
If you bath someone, especially a child, you wash them in a bath. (BRIT)
Don’t feel you have to bath your child every day.
= bathe
VERB: V n
•
Bath is also a noun. (in AM, use bathe)
The midwife gave him a warm bath.
N-COUNT
4.
When you bath, you have a bath. (BRIT; in AM, use bathe)
The three children all bath in the same bath water.
= bathe
VERB: V prep/adv
5.
A bath or a baths is a public building containing a swimming pool, and sometimes other facilities that people can use to have a wash or a bath.
N-COUNT
6.
A bath is a container filled with a particular liquid, such as a dye or an acid, in which particular objects are placed, usually as part of a manufacturing or chemical process.
...a developing photograph placed in a bath of fixer.
N-COUNT: usu with supp
1bath /ˈbæɵ, Brit ˈbɑːɵ/ noun, pl baths /ˈbæðz, ˈbæɵs, Brit ˈbɑːðz, ˈbɑːɵs/
1 [count]
a : the act of washing the body usually by sitting or lying in a container filled with water
• Do you prefer baths or showers?
• I was taking a bath when the phone rang.
• (chiefly Brit) I was having a bath.
• We tried giving the dog a bath in the bathtub.
• a long hot bath
• bath towels [=large towels used for drying yourself after a bath or shower]
- see also bubble bath, sponge bath, turkish bath, take a bath (below)
b : the water used for a bath
• a bath of warm/hot water
• I was in the bath when the phone rang.
• Would you like me to draw/run a bath for you? [=to fill the bathtub with water for you?]
c chiefly Brit : bathtub
• He slipped and fell in the bath.
2 [count] chiefly US : bathroom
- used when describing the number or kinds of bathrooms in a place
• a room with a private bath
• The house has three bedrooms and one and a half baths. [=one full bathroom and one bathroom with only a sink and a toilet]
• a full bath [=a bathroom with a sink, toilet, and a bathtub or shower]
3 baths [plural]
a : a public building where people in the past went to wash or soak their bodies
• ancient Roman baths
b Brit old-fashioned : a public building with a swimming pool in it
4 [count] technical : a container filled with a liquid in which an object is placed to be cleaned, treated, etc.
• She dipped the metal in a bath of acid.
• a chemical bath
take a bath US informal : to lose a large amount of money in a business deal
• The movie studio took a bath on his last picture.
I’d like to use the shower if that’s all right.
A device that releases drops of water through a lot of very small holes and that you stand under to wash your whole body
I’d like to use the shower if that’s all right.
shower
noun
1 a place where you can wash by standing under water that falls from above you:
There's a shower in the bathroom.
2 the act of washing yourself in a shower:
I had a shower after the tennis match.
3 rain that falls for a short time:
The day will be cloudy, with occasional heavy showers.
shower
I. show‧er1 S2 /ˈʃaʊə $ ʃaʊr/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
[Language: Old English; Origin: scur]
1. FOR WASHING IN a piece of equipment that you stand under to wash your whole body:
Why does the phone always ring when I’m in the shower?
I’d like to use the shower if that’s all right.
The bathroom has a separate shower cubicle (=a shower in a separate part of the room).
2. ACT OF WASHING an act of washing your body while standing under a shower:
I need a shower.
take a shower
Nick rolled out of bed and took a shower.
have a shower especially British English:
Mary loves having a hot shower after she’s been swimming.
3. RAIN a short period of rain or snow:
More heavy showers are forecast for tonight.
a shower of rain
a snow shower
A few wintry showers are likely.
4. LOTS OF THINGS a lot of small light things falling or going through the air together
shower of
Peter kicked the fire and sent up a shower of sparks.
A shower of leaves fell towards the ground.
5. PARTY American English a party at which presents are given to a woman who is going to get married or have a baby:
We gave a shower for Beth.
a baby shower
6. PEOPLE [usually singular] British English informal a group of stupid or lazy people
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ rain noun [uncountable] water that falls in small drops from clouds in the sky: The rain has stopped at last. | There had been heavy rain during the night.
▪ drizzle noun [uncountable] light rain with very small drops of water: A light drizzle was falling as I left the house.
▪ shower noun [countable] a short period of rain that can be heavy or light: More heavy showers are forecast for tonight. | a light shower of rain
▪ downpour noun [countable usually singular] a short period of very heavy rain that starts suddenly: A sudden downpour sent us running for shelter. | a torrential downpour
▪ hail noun [uncountable] frozen rain that falls in the form of ↑hailstones (=small balls of ice): The hail and high winds have destroyed many of the county’s crops.
▪ sleet noun [uncountable] a mixture of snow and rain: The rain had turned to sleet | Sleet and snow fell.
▪ the rains noun [plural] heavy rain that falls during a particular period in the year in tropical countries: The farmers are waiting for the rains to come.
▪ monsoon noun [countable ] the heavy rain that falls between April and October in India and other southern Asian countries: The monsoon is late this year. | the monsoon season
shower
shower [shower showers showered showering] noun, verb [ˈʃaʊə(r)] [ˈʃaʊər]
noun
1. a piece of equipment producing a spray of water that you stand under to wash yourself; the small room or part of a room that contains a shower
• a hotel room with bath and shower
• He's in the shower.
• a shower cubicle
• a shower curtain
2. the act of washing yourself with a shower: (especially BrE) to have a shower
• (especially NAmE) to take a shower
• shower gel
3. a short period of rain or snow
• scattered showers
• April showers
• We were caught in a heavy shower.
• snow showers
• wintry showers (= of snow)
4. a large number of things that arrive or fall together
• a shower of leaves
• a shower of sparks from the fire
• a shower of kisses
5. (NAmE) a party at which you give presents to a woman who is getting married or having a baby
• a bridal/baby shower
Word Origin:
Old English scūr ‘light fall of rain, hail, etc.’, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch schoer and German Schauer.
Thesaurus:
shower noun
1. C
• He's in the shower just now.
bath • • wash •
in the shower/bath
need/have a shower/bath/wash
take a shower/bath
2. C
• We got caught in a heavy shower.
downpour • • rain • • drizzle •
(a) heavy shower/downpour/rain
a sudden shower/downpour
be/get caught in a shower/a downpour/the rain
3. C, usually sing. (usually followed by of) (written)
• The fire sent out a shower of sparks.
volley • |written hail •
a shower/volley/hail of arrows/bullets/stones
Example Bank:
• After the game, the boys hit the showers.
• He could hear the shower running in the bathroom.
• I got a shower invitation from Katie.
• I'll just take a quick shower.
• Scattered showers during the afternoon will die out by late evening.
• Scattered showers will die out by late evening.
• The grinding wheel sent out a shower of sparks.
• The plans include changing facilities and shower blocks.
• They decided to brave the showers and headed for the coast.
• a baby shower for my sister
• A bridal shower is usually organized by the bridesmaids.
• A log in the fire broke and fell, sending out a shower of sparks.
• Despite occasional April showers, the tennis season started in great style yesterday.
• He pushed the couch so that it banged against the wall and released a shower of dust.
• He's in the shower at the moment — can you call back later?
• Scattered wintry showers over western areas will become more widespread as the evening goes on.
• The white seeds drifted down in a slow shower against the blue sky.
• We got caught in a heavy shower.
• to take a shower
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
shower / ʃaʊə r / / ʃaʊr / noun (WASHING DEVICE)
A1 [ C ] a device that releases drops of water through a lot of very small holes and that you stand under to wash your whole body:
The shower is broken - you'll have to have a bath.
Many British homes have a shower attachment fixed to the bath taps.
a shower curtain/cap
A1 [ C ] a wash using such a device:
Have I got time to have ( US take ) a shower before we go out?
A1 [ C ] a place, usually in a bathroom, where a shower is situated:
He's in the shower at the moment. Would you like him to phone you back?
© Cambridge University Press 2013
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
shower / ʃaʊə r / / ʃaʊr / noun [ C ] (RAIN)
B1 a short period of rain or snow:
showers of rain, hail and sleet
You're soaked! Did you get caught in the shower?
There will be thundery/wintry showers over many parts of the country.
Snow showers are expected at the end of the week.
shower / ʃaʊə r / / ʃaʊr / noun (MASS)
a shower of sth a lot of small objects or drops of liquid coming through the air:
There was a bang and a shower of sparks .
The pipe burst, sending out a shower of water.
a large amount of something:
She received a shower of praise from her colleagues.
shower / ʃaʊə r / / ʃaʊr / noun [ C ] US (PARTY)
a party held for a woman just before she gets married or gives birth to a child, when she is given presents for her future home or baby:
I bought the cutest baby clothes to take to Jacey's baby shower.
We went to my cousin's bridal shower yesterday.
© Cambridge University Press 2013
shower
/ʃaʊə(r)/
(showers, showering, showered)
1.
A shower is a device for washing yourself. It consists of a pipe which ends in a flat cover with a lot of holes in it so that water comes out in a spray.
She heard him turn on the shower.
N-COUNT
2.
A shower is a small enclosed area containing a shower.
N-COUNT
3.
The showers or the shower in a place such as a sports centre is the area containing showers.
The showers are a mess...
We all stood in the women’s shower.
N-COUNT
4.
If you have a shower, you wash yourself by standing under a spray of water from a shower.
I think I’ll have a shower before dinner...
She took two showers a day.
N-COUNT
5.
If you shower, you wash yourself by standing under a spray of water from a shower.
There wasn’t time to shower or change clothes.
VERB: V
6.
A shower is a short period of rain, especially light rain.
There’ll be bright or sunny spells and scattered showers this afternoon.
N-COUNT
7.
You can refer to a lot of things that are falling as a shower of them.
Showers of sparks flew in all directions.
N-COUNT: usu N of n
8.
If you are showered with a lot of small objects or pieces, they are scattered over you.
They were showered with rice in the traditional manner...
VERB: usu passive, be V-ed with n
9.
If you shower a person with presents or kisses, you give them a lot of presents or kisses in a very generous and extravagant way.
He showered her with emeralds and furs...
Her parents showered her with kisses.
VERB: V n with n, V n with n
10.
A shower is a party or celebration at which the guests bring gifts.; If you refer to a group of people as a particular kind of shower, you disapprove of them. (mainly AM BRIT INFORMAL)
...a baby shower.
...a shower of wasters.
N-COUNT; N-SING: usu sing, oft N of n [disapproval]
1show·er /ˈʃawɚ/ noun, pl -ers [count]
1 a : a device that produces a spray of water for you to stand under and wash your body
b : a room or an enclosed area in a room that contains a shower
• My hotel room had a shower but no bathtub.
• a shower curtain/stall
• I couldn't answer the phone because I was in the shower.
• The team hit the showers after practice. [=the team went to the locker room and used the showers there after practice]
- see picture at bathroom
c : the act of washing your body with a shower
• She took a shower after her run. = (Brit) She had a shower after her run.
• a shower cap [=a cap that you wear while you are taking a shower]
2 a : a brief fall of rain or snow over a small area
• Light/Heavy showers are expected later today.
- see also thundershower
b : a large number of small things that fall or happen at the same time - often + of
• a shower of sparks/tears
• He gave the baby a shower of kisses. [=he showered the baby with kisses]
3 US : a party where gifts are given to a woman who is going to be married or have a baby
• a bridal/baby shower
a large amount or number of people or things
He eats lots of food.
noun a lot (also informal lots)
very much; a large amount or number of things or people:
We ate a lot.
a lot of, lots of a large number or amount of things or people:
She's got a lot of friends.
Lots of love from Jane (= words at the end of a letter).
II. lot2 S2 BrE AmE noun
[Language: Old English; Origin: hlot 'object used for making a choice by chance']
1. GROUP OF PEOPLE/THINGS [countable] a group of people or things considered together:
Could you help me carry this lot upstairs?
lot of
The last lot of people offered £70,000.
I did three lots of exams last summer.
Come on, you lot, hurry up!
His friends are a strange lot.
2. the lot especially British English the whole of an amount or number of things, people etc:
We’ll do everything – cooking, washing, ironing – the lot.
I can’t believe you ate the whole lot.
I think that’s the lot (=everything is included).
the lot of you/them/us (=all of you, them, or us)
Shut up, the lot of you!
3. SB’S SITUATION [singular] your lot is your work, duties, social position etc, especially when they could be better:
She seems happy enough with her lot.
The unions have always tried to improve the lot of their members.
4. LAND [countable] especially American English an area of land used for building on or for another purpose:
the vacant lot (=empty land) behind the Commercial Hotel
a used-car lot ⇨ ↑parking lot
5. FILM [countable] a building and the land surrounding it where films are made SYN studio:
the Universal Studios lot
6. THING TO BE SOLD [countable] something, or a group of things, that is sold at an ↑auction:
Lot 54 is a Victorian lamp.
7. CHOOSING
a) by lot if someone is chosen by lot, several people each take a piece of paper or an object from a container, and the person who is chosen is the one who gets a particular marked paper or object:
In Athens at that time, judges were chosen by lot.
b) draw/cast lots to choose something or someone by lot:
We drew lots to decide who should go first.
8. throw in/cast your lot with somebody/something to join or support someone or something, and accept that what happens to them will affect what happens to you:
In 1915 Italy threw in her lot with the Allies.
⇨ bad lot at ↑bad1(21), ⇨ a job lot at job(17)
determiner a lot of (also informal lots of)
a large number or amount of sb/sth
• What a lot of presents!
• A lot of people are coming to the meeting.
• black coffee with lots of sugar
• I saw a lot of her (= I saw her often) last summer.
Word Origin:
Old English hlot (noun), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch lot, German Los. The original meaning was ‘by lot’ and (by extension) the sense ‘a portion assigned to someone’; this gave rise to the other noun senses. The pronoun and adverb uses date from the early 19th cent.
Grammar Point:
many / a lot of / lots of
Many is used only with countable nouns. It is used mainly in questions and negative sentences: ▪ Do you go to many concerts? ◊ ▪ How many ▪ people came to the meeting? ◊ ▪ I don’t go to many concerts. Although it is not common in statements, it is used after so, as and too: ▪ You made too many mistakes.
In statements a lot of or lots of (informal) are much more common: ▪ I go to a lot of concerts. ◊ ▪ ‘How many CDs have you got?’ ‘Lots!’ However, they are not used with measurements of time or distance: ▪ I stayed in England for many/quite a few/ten weeks. ◊ I stayed in England a lot of weeks. When a lot of/lots of means ‘many’, it takes a plural verb: ▪ Lots of people like Italian food. You can also use plenty of (informal): ▪ Plenty of stores stay open late. These phrases can also be used in questions and negative sentences.
A lot of/lots of is still felt to be informal, especially in BrE, so in formal writing it is better to use many or a large number of in statements.
note at much
Grammar Point:
much / a lot of / lots of
Much is used only with uncountable nouns. It is used mainly in questions and negative sentences: ▪ Do you have much free time? ◊ ▪ How much ▪ experience have you had? ◊ ▪ I don’t have much free time.
In statements a lot of or lots of (informal) is much more common: ▪ ‘How much (money) does she earn? ◊ ▪ She earns a lot of money. You can also use plenty (of). These phrases can also be used in questions and negative sentences.
A lot of/lots of is still felt to be informal, especially in BrE, so in formal writing it is better to use much, a great deal of or a large amount of.
Very much and a lot can be used as adverbs: ▪ I miss my family very much. ◊ I miss very much my family. ◊ ▪ I miss my family a lot. ◊ ▪ Thanks a lot. In negative sentences you can use much: ▪ I didn’t enjoy the film (very) much.
note at many
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun (LARGE AMOUNT)
a lot (of) informal A1 lots (of) a large amount or number of people or things:
She eats lots of fruit.
There were a lot of people there.
He does a lot of travelling in his job.
I've got a lot to do today.
He earns lots of money.
There's lots of food.
a lot A1 very much or very often:
Your sister looks a lot like you.
I'm feeling a lot better today.
He looks a lot older than his wife.
We used to go there a lot.
have a lot to answer for to be the main cause of a problem or an unpleasant situation:
People who sell drugs to kids have a lot to answer for.
the lot UK informal everything:
I made enough curry for three people and he ate the lot.
Have I got everything? Is that the lot?
I'll sell you the whole lot for only £50.
I'm sick of the lot of them.
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun [ C ] UK (GROUP)
an amount or set of things, especially when there are several of these amounts:
I've already done one lot of washing.
Another lot of visitors will be here this afternoon.
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun [ C ] (SALE)
in an auction (= public sale) , an object or set of objects that are being sold:
Lot number 134 is a fine old walnut bureau.
→ See also job lot
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun (LAND)
[ C ] mainly US an area of land:
an empty lot
a parking lot
They're planning to build a house on a vacant lot on 35th Street.
[ C ] US a film studio and the land around it
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun (LIFE)
sb's lot/the lot of sb the quality of someone's life and the experiences that they have:
They should do something to improve the lot of the lowest-paid workers.
Do you think he's happy with his lot?
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun (CHANCE)
draw lots to make a decision by choosing from a set of objects such as pieces of paper or sticks that are all the same except for one:
We drew lots to decide who would go.
lot / lɒt / / lɑːt / noun [ plural ] UK informal
a group of people:
You're an ignorant lot!
Are you lot coming to lunch?
My lot (= children and family generally) won't eat spinach.
© Cambridge University Press 2013
lot
[lɒ̱t]
♦
lots
1) QUANT: QUANT of n A lot of something or lots of it is a large amount of it. A lot of people or things, or lots of them, is a large number of them.
A lot of our land is used to grow crops for export...
I remember a lot of things...
`You'll find that everybody will try and help their colleague.' - `Yeah. There's a lot of that.'...
Lots of pubs like to deck themselves out with flowers in summer...
He drank lots of milk...
A lot of the play is very funny.
Syn:
a great deal
PRON
Lot is also a pronoun. There's lots going on at Selfridges this month... I learned a lot from him about how to run a band... I know a lot has been said about my sister's role in my career.
2) ADV: ADV after v, oft ADV compar A lot means to a great extent or degree.
Matthew's out quite a lot doing his research...
I like you, a lot...
If I went out and accepted a job at a lot less money, I'd jeopardize a good career.
3) ADV: ADV after v If you do something a lot, you do it often or for a long time.
They went out a lot, to the Cafe Royal or the The Ivy...
He talks a lot about his own children.
4) N-COUNT: num N, oft N of n You can use lot to refer to a set or group of things or people.
He bought two lots of 1,000 shares in the company during August and September...
We've just sacked one lot of builders.
5) N-SING: adj N You can refer to a specific group of people as a particular lot. [INFORMAL]
Future generations are going to think that we were a pretty boring lot.
Syn:
bunch
6) N-SING: the N You can use the lot to refer to the whole of an amount that you have just mentioned. [INFORMAL]
Instead of paying his rent, he went to a betting shop and lost the lot in half an hour.
7) N-SING: usu with poss Your lot is the kind of life you have or the things that you have or experience.
She tried to accept her marriage as her lot in life but could not...
Young people are usually less contented with their lot.
8) N-COUNT A lot is a small area of land that belongs to a person or company. [AM]
→ See also parking lot
If oil or gold are discovered under your lot, you can sell the mineral rights.
9) N-COUNT A lot in an auction is one of the objects or groups of objects that are being sold.
The receivers are keen to sell the stores as one lot...
The two lots have made just over ₤5 million.
10) PHRASE: V inflects If people draw lots to decide who will do something, they each take a piece of paper from a container. One or more pieces of paper is marked, and the people who take marked pieces are chosen.
Two names were selected by drawing lots...
For the first time in a World Cup finals, lots had to be drawn to decide who would finish second and third.
11) PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n If you throw in your lot with a particular person or group, you decide to work with them and support them from then on, whatever happens.
He has decided to throw in his lot with the far-right groups in parliament.
Syn:
join forces with
lot
lot /ˈlɑːt/ noun, pl lots
1 [count]
a chiefly US : a small piece of land that is or could be used for building something or for some other purpose
• He bought the vacant/empty lot across the street.
• They own the house on the corner lot.
• a building lot
- see also parking lot
b : the buildings and land that are owned by a company that makes movies and television programs
• We took a tour of the Universal lot.
2 [count] : a small object used to choose the person who will do or receive something
✦When someone is chosen by lot or when people draw lots or (less commonly) cast lots to choose someone, each person in a group takes a small object or a piece of paper from a container. One of the objects or pieces of paper is different from the others, and the person who takes the different one is chosen.
• The winner was chosen by lot.
• We drew lots to determine the winner.
3 [singular] : a person's situation in life especially as decided by chance
• The organization has done much to improve the lot of underprivileged youth.
• Unhappy with her lot in life, she moved to the city to start over. synonyms seedestiny
4 informal
a [count] chiefly Brit : all the members of a group of people - usually singular
• Do you know the lot [=bunch, crowd] that hang around the arcade?
• That lot will never amount to anything! They're a thoroughly bad lot.
• Pipe down, the (whole) lot of you. = Pipe down, you lot.
✦In British English, a person who is not liked is sometimes described as a bad lot.
• He may be a bit wild, but he's not a bad lot once you get to know him.
b the lot : all the things of a group
• They sell tuxedos, business suits, casual wear…the lot.
• This one's the best of the lot.
5 [count] : one or more things being sold as one item at an auction
• Lot 45 is a dining room set.
- see also job lot
a lot
1 also (informal) lots : a large amount
• She has done a lot to help other people.
• I'd give a lot to be able to write like that!
• I'm not asking for a lot. [=much]
• They must have paid a lot for that car.
• We did quite a lot this morning.
• We still have a lot to do. = We still have lots (and lots) to do.
2 : very often
• Do they hike a lot?
• I've been seeing her a lot recently.
3
- used to say that you feel a particular emotion very strongly
• “Did you like the movie?” “Yes, I liked it a lot.” [=very much]
• I miss her a lot since she went away.
4 also (informal) lots : to a large degree or extent : much
• This is a lot nicer. [=this is much nicer]
• There's a lot more to it than I realized at first. [=it's more complicated than it looks]
• I'm feeling lots better.
• Thanks a lot. [=very much]
a lot of also (informal) lots of : a large number or amount of (things, people, etc.)
• A lot of people feel that way.
• There was a lot of space. = There was lots of space.
• We had lots of fun.
• You can enjoy yourself without spending a lot of money.
• I don't need a lot of help; I just need a little.
• We don't have an awful lot of money/time. [=we don't have much money/time]
• (informal) I think their ideas are a lot of garbage/nonsense. [=I think their ideas are very foolish]
• (informal) It doesn't make a whole lot of [=very much] difference.
• Not a lot of people [=not many people] know that.
• “I've brought an umbrella.” “A (fat) lot of good that will do [=that will not do any good] now that it's stopped raining!”
leave a lot to be desired
- see 1desire
throw in your lot with or cast your lot with : to join or become associated with a person, group, or thing that you hope will win or succeed
• During the American Civil War, my great-grandfather threw in his lot with the Confederacy/Union.
