Permission is granted to download and reproduce this glossary for one teacher's classroom.

A
abandon: (uh-BAN-dun) v. To leave.
abhorrence: (ab-HOR-ens) n. Hatred; disgust.
absolute: (AB-suh-loot) adj. Not limited or restricted; total.
academic: (ak-uh-DEM-ik) adj. Having to do with school subjects such as history, literature, geography, and so forth.
acceptance: (ak-SEP-tens) n. Receiving something willingly.
account: (uh-KOWNT) n. A written explanation or record.
accountable: (uh-KOWN-tuh-bul) adj. To have to answer to or explain.
A.D.: (AD) Anno Domini, a Latin phrase meaning "in the year of the Lord"; used to refer to dates after "0."
adapt: (uh-DAPT) v. To change something to suit a new use or situation.
administrative: (ad-MIN-is-tray-tiv) adj. Management.
aerial: (AYR-ee-ul) adj. In the air; from an airplane.
affirm: (uh-FIRM) v. To declare to be true.
agent: (AY-junt) n. A person who represents another.
ale: (ayl) n. An alcoholic drink like beer.
allegiance: (uh-LEE-jens) n. Loyalty.
alliance: (uh-LY-uns) n. A formal agreement, partnership, or connection between people or groups.
ally: (AL-y) n. A partner or friend.
almsgiving: (AMZ-giv-ing) n. Giving money or goods to the poor.
alpaca: (al-PAK-uh) n. A South American animal related to the llama; it is smaller and has finer, longer wool.
altar: (ALL-tur) n. A table or raised structure for religious ceremonies.
alternative: (all-TUR-nuh-tiv) n. A different option or choice.
ambassador: (am-BAS-uh-dur) n. A person of a high status who represents one government to another.
ambitious: (am-BISH-us) adj. Eager to get ahead; to want more power.
amendment: (uh-MEND-munt) n. A revision or addition to a constitution.
analyze: (AN-ul-yz) v. To examine critically or carefully.
anarchy: (AN-uhr-kee) n. Political disorder and confusion.
ancestor: (AN-ses-tur) n. A family member who lived a long time ago.
Anglo-Saxon: (ANG-gloh SAK-sun) n. A descendant of Angles, Saxons, and Jutes.
anoint: (uh-NOYNT) v. To mark or touch the forehead with sacred oil in a religious ceremony.
appoint: (uh-POYNT) v. To select or name someone to fill an office.
Arabic numerals: (AIR-uh-bik NYOO-mur-ulz) n. The numerical symbols 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 0; different from Roman numerals (I, II, III, IV, V, and so forth).
archangel: (ARK-ayn-jel) n. An angel who acts as the messenger of God.
archipelago: (ar-kuh-PEL-uh-goh) n. A large group of islands.
Aristotle: (AIR-is-tot-l) n. An ancient Greek philosopher who wrote about science, philosophy, logic, and politics.
armada: (ar-MAH-duh) n. A group of ships; fleet.
armor: (AR-mur) n. A special covering worn over the body to protect against weapons.
arms: (armz) n. Weapons.
artifact: (AR-tuh-fakt) n. An object made and used by humans.
artillery: (ar-TIL-ur-ee) n. Large weapons such as cannons that use gunpowder to shoot cannonballs or missiles.
artisan: (AR-tuh-zun) n. A person skilled at making things.
Asia Minor: (AY-zhuh MY-nur) n. The land between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.
assassinate: (uh-SAS-uh-nayt) v. To kill a person, usually a political leader.
Assisi: (uh-SEE-see) n. A town in northern Italy.
astrolabe: (AS-truh-layb) n. A device that measures the sun's distance above the horizon to help ships stay on course.
astronomy: (uh-STRON-uh-mee) n. The study of the universe, including the stars and planets.
attitude: (AT-uh-tood) n. A state of mind or feeling about a certain issue.
attract: (uh-TRAKT) v. To draw interest.
Augsburg: (OUKS-bork) n. A city in western Germany.
authoritarian: (uh-thor-uh-TAYR-ee-un) adj. Characterized by demanding absolute obedience to the person in charge.
authoritative: (uh-thor-uh-TAY-tiv) adj. Official; having come from someone with the authority and power to make a judgment.
autocratic: (AH-tuh-krat-ik) adj. Government by a single person who has unlimited power.

B
balance of trade: (BAL-uns uv trayd) n. The difference between the total value of exports and the total value of imports.
ball: (bol) n. A formal gathering for social dancing.
ban: (ban) v. To forbid or prohibit, especially by a formal act.
bankrupt: (BANGK-rupt) adj. Financially ruined; not having money to pay debts.
banquet: (BANG-kwit) n. A big, fancy meal, often to honor a special guest.
baptize: (bap-TYZ) v. To dip in water or sprinkle with water; a person must be baptized to become a member of the Christian Church.
barbarian: (bar-bair-EE-un) n. A primitive or uncivilized person.
Bastille: (bas-TEEL) n. A prison and storehouse for weapons and gunpowder; July 14, "Bastille Day," has become one of France's most important holidays.
B.C.: (BC) "Before Christ"; used to refer to dates before "0."
belittle: (bi-LIT-l) v. To cause to think something is not important or special.
betrayal: (bee-TRAY-ul) n. Disloyalty.
biased: (BY-usd) adj. Prejudiced; favoring one side; judging before looking at all the facts.
bidder: (BID-ur) n. A person who makes an offer to pay for something at a price.
bill of exchange: (bill uv eks-CHAYNJ) n. A written order for a specified amount of money to be paid to a particular person.
bless: (bles) v. To make holy; to approve of.
border: (BOR-dur) n. The edge of an area that separates one region from another.
boundary: (BOUN-dree) n. Something that shows a border or limit.
branch: (branch) n. A part of a larger organization.
breakthrough: (BRAYK-throo) n. A major achievement or success.
breed: (breed) v. To develop new or improved animals through a process of selection.
bubonic plague: (boo-BON-ik playg) n. A deadly disease caused by bacteria (germs) that people can catch very easily.
burden: (BURD-un) n. Responsibility or duty.
burned at the stake: (burnd at the stayk) n. Killing a person by tying them to a pole and setting them on fire.
bushel: (BUSH-ul) n. A unit of volume used to measure agricultural produce.
bust: (bust) n. A sculpture showing a person's head, shoulders, and upper chest.
Byzantine Empire: (BIZ-un-teen M-pyr) n. Another name for the Eastern Roman Empire.

C
cacao bean: (kuh-KAY-oh been) n. A bean used in making chocolate; also used as a form of money.
calculate: (kal-kyu-LAYT) v. To figure out something, often by using numbers and mathematics.
calculation: (kal-kyu-LAY-shun) n. To come to an answer through a mathematical process.
caliph: (KAY-lif) n. The political and religious leader of a Muslim state; in Arabic, caliph means "successor."
calligraphy: (kuh-LIG-ruh-fee) n. The art of fine handwriting.
cape: (kayp) n. A narrow piece of land that sticks out into a sea or other body of water; similar to a peninsula, only smaller.
caravan: (KAYR-uh-van) n. A group traveling together, especially across a desert.
cargo: (KAR-goh) n. The goods carried by a ship or other vehicle.
carver: (KARV-ur) n. Someone who makes pictures or words by cutting into wood, stone, or other material.
cathedral: (kuh-THEE-drul) n. A large and important church; the main church containing the bishop's official throne (a special chair for a bishop, king, queen, or other important person).
cause and effect relationship: (koz and ih-FEKT rih-LAY-shun-ship) n. The connection between an action and the response to that action.
causeway: (KOZ-way) n. A raised path, usually over water or marshy land.
cavalry: (KAV-ul-ree) n. Soldiers who ride in battle.
censorship: (SEN-sur-ship) n. The act of modifying or deleting anything considered unacceptable in books, plays, or other works.
census: (SEN-sus) n. An official count of people.
century: (SEN-chuh-ree) n. A period of 100 years.
ceramics: (suh-RAM-iks) n. Objects made of clay baked in a hot oven.
chaos: (KAY-aws) n. Disorder or confusion.
character: (KAYR-ik-tur) n. A person in a novel, drama, or other story.
charismatic: (kayr-iz-MAT-ik) adj. Having the ability to get many people to follow.
charter: (CHAR-tur) 1. v. To issue an official document that gives certain rights. 2. n. A written document of the conditions of an agreement.
checks and balances: (cheks and BAL-unz-is) n. A system that makes sure no one part of government becomes more powerful than the others.
chile pepper: (CHIHL-ee PEP-ur) n. The fruit of a plant used to flavor food.
chip: (chip) v. To cut and form.
chivalry: (SHIV-ul-ree) n. How a knight must act-with respect for the church, pity for the poor, bravery, and courtesy.
Christendom: (KRIS-un-dum) n. The Christian world; all Christians.
chronology: (kruh-NOL-uh-jee) n. The arrangement of events in the order they happened.
city-dweller: (SIT-ee DWELL-ur) n. A person who lives and works in a city.
city-state: (SIT-ee stayt) n. An independent city and the area the city directly controls; a city-state has an independent government and an army.
civil authority: (SIV-ul uh-THOR-uh-tee) n. A state or government with power to make laws and keep peace and order.
civil rights: (SIV-ul rytz) n. Rights belonging to a person as a citizen of a society.
civil war: (SIV-ul wor) n. Fighting between different groups in a country.
clan: (clan) n. A group of people who have a common ancestor.
clergy: (KLUR-jee) n. The group of men trained and given the authority for religious service.
clone: (klohn) v. To make an exact duplicate of the original.
cock: (kok) n. A male bird.
colony: (KOL-uh-nee) n. A group of people who settle in a land far away.
commerce: (KOM-urs) n. The buying and selling of goods; business.
commercial: (kuh-MUR-shul) adj. Being involved in business or profit-making.
commission: (kuh-MISH-un) v. To place an order for.
commit: (kuh-MIT) v. To do or perform.
conclusion: (kun-KLOO-zhun) n. A judgment or decision reached after considering the evidence.
concubine: (KONG-kyuh-byn) n. A woman who lives with and is supported by a man, but who is not his wife.
condemn: (kun-DEM) v. To express disapproval.
confessor: (kun-FES-ur) n. A person who states faith in Christianity, even when persecuted for these beliefs.
conflicting: (kun-FLIKT-ing) adj. Opposing; in disagreement.
confront: (kun-FRUNT) v. To face with hostility; oppose.
conquering: (KONG-kur-ing) adj. Defeating; gaining control over.
conscience: (KON-shuns) n. A person's own sense of what is right and wrong.
consent of the governed: (kun-SENT uv the GOV-urnd) n. Agreement by the people.
constitution: (kon-stuh-TOO-shun) n. The written laws and principles of a government.
constitutional monarchy: (kon-stuh-TOO-shun-ul MON-ark-ee) n. A form of government where the royal ruler's powers are limited by the nation's constitution and laws.
consul: (KON-sul) n. A general elected each year to lead the army and protect the city of Rome.
contaminate: (kun-TAM-uh-nayt) v. To corrupt or make impure.
continent: (KON-tuh-nunt) n. One of the seven major areas of land of the earth-Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.
contract: (KON-trakt) n. A formal agreement.
conversion: (kun-VUR-zhun) n. A change where one adopts a new religion.
convert: (KON-vurt) n. Someone who changes from one religion to another or from one set of beliefs to another.
cordial: (KOR-jul) adj. Warm; sincere.
corrupt: (kuh-RUPT) adj. Dishonest.
corruption: (kuh-RUP-shun) n. Dishonesty.
cottage industry: (KOT-ij IN-dus-tree) n. A system where people make products in their homes; usually, the entire family helps to make the product.
count: (kownt) n. A wealthy and powerful nobleman; the area he ruled was called a county.
courtier: (KOR-tee-ur) n. An attendant at a royal court.
cowrie shell: (KOW-ree shel) n. A shiny sea shell that was used for money.
creature: (KREE-chur) n. A living being; an animal.
credible: (KRED-uh-bul) adj. Worthy of trust; believable.
cripple: (KRIP-ul) v. To disable or hurt.
crown: (krown) n. The power, position, or empire of a monarch.
crusade: (kroo-SAYD) n. A military expedition by European Christians in the Middle Ages to regain Jerusalem and other Holy Land in the Middle East from the Muslims.
crusader: (kroo-SAYD-ur) n. A person who fought in the Crusades.
curious: (kyoor-ee-US) adj. Having a desire to know or learn, especially about something new.
currency: (KUHR-un-see) n. Any form of money.
custom: (KUS-tum) n. The traditional way people do things; a habit or practice.

D
daring: (DAYR-ing) adj. Fearless; bold.
dauphin: (doh-FAN) n. The next person to become king of France.
decipher: (dih-SY-fur) v. To interpret or make sense of something.
decline: (dih-KLYN) v. To fail or reduce in power.
dedication: (ded-uh-KAY-shun) n. A formal ceremony at the opening of a new building.
deductive reasoning: (dih-DUK-tiv REE-zuh-ning) n. Coming to a conclusion by going from the general to the specific.
demand: (dih-MAND) v. To ask for firmly or strongly.
depose: (dih-POHZ) v. To remove from office or position of power.
descendant: (dih-SEN-dunt) n. A person's child.
desert: (DEZ-urt) n. A region of the earth that gets very little rainfall (fewer than 10 inches per year) and has extreme hot and cold temperatures.
determined: (dih-TUR-mihnd) adj. Having a firm purpose.
device: (dih-VYS) n. Something made for a specific purpose.
devout: (dih-VOWT) adj. Deeply religious.
diary: (DY-uh-ree) n. A personal record of events, thoughts, and experiences.
dictator: (DIK-tay-tur) n. A ruler who has complete power in government.
dignity: (DIG-nuh-tee) n. Self-respect; honor.
disaster: (dih-ZAS-tur) n. Destruction; something terrible.
discredit: (dis-KRED-it) v. To damage in reputation; to cast doubt or cause not to be trusted.
disgrace: (dis-GRAYS) n. Shame; loss of honor or respect.
displace: (dis-PLAYS) v. To take the place of.
dispute: (dis-PYOOT) n. An argument or quarrel.
disrupt: (dis-RUPT) v. To upset the order; to throw into confusion.
dissenter: (di-SEN-tur) n. A person who refuses to accept the beliefs of an established church or other organization.
distinction: (dis-TINGK-shun) n. Recognized differences; discrimination.
distress: (dis-TRES) n. Worry; anxiety.
DNA: (DNA) (deoxyribonucleic acid) n. The basic make-up of living things.
doctorate: (DOK-tur-it) n. The highest university degree a person can earn.
document: (DOK-yuh-munt) n. A written or printed paper that contains information.
dominance: (DOM-uh-nuns) n. Having the most influence or control.
dominate: (DOM-uh-nayt) v. To control or rule by power.
downfall: (DOUN-fol) n. Ruin; a sudden loss of rank, wealth, reputation, or happiness.
due process of law: (doo PRAH-sus uv lah) n. A system of law that must be followed to protect the rights of individuals.
duke: (dook) n. A nobleman who has a higher rank than a count.
Dutch: (duch) n. The people of the Netherlands.
dwelling: (DWEL-ing) n. House.
dynasty: (DY-nuh-stee) n. A group of rulers from the same family.

E
earthquake: (URTH-kwayk) n. A movement in the earth's surface caused by shifting tectonic plates or volcanic activity.
East Indies: (eest IHN-dees) n. The name Europeans used to refer to India and Southeast Asia, including the islands they called the "Spice Islands" that are part of present-day Indonesia.
economic: (ek-uh-NOM-ik) adj. Having to do with producing, developing, and managing wealth.
Edo: (ED-oh) n. Modern-day Tokyo; the capital of Japan.
efficient: (ih-FISH-unt) adj. Acting with little waste or unnecessary effort.
elegant: (EL-uh-gunt) adj. Made of fine material and of good design.
elite: (ih-LEET) n. The best or most skilled members of a social group.
embroidery: (em-BROY-duh-ree) n. A pattern on cloth made by sewing different colors of thread.
encyclopedia: (en-sy-kluh-PEE-dee-uh) n. A comprehensive work containing articles on a wide range of subjects.
enlightenment: (en-LYT-un-munt) n. A state of spiritual understanding.
enterprising: (EN-tur-pryz-ing) adj. Willing to take risks.
environmental pollution: (en-VY-run-ment-ul puh-LOO-shun) n. Contamination of the earth's water, air, or soil.
estate: (uh-STAYT) n. A large piece of land, usually with a house or castle.
eternal bliss: (ih-TUR-nul blihs) n. Happiness forever.
ethnic: (ETH-nik) adj. Having to do with a social, linguistic, or cultural group.
etiquette: (ET-uh-ket) n. A code of behavior and courtesy.
Eucharist: (YOO-kur-ist) n. A Christian sacrament where bread and wine are blessed; also called "Holy Communion" or the "Lord's Supper."
evaluate: (ih-VAL-yoo-ayt) v. To examine and judge.
evidence: (EV-uh-duns) n. Information that supports a judgment or decision.
exception: (ek-SEP-shun) n. A case that does not follow the general rule.
exceptional: (ek-SEP-shun-ul) adj. Uncommon; extraordinary.
Exchequer: (eks-CHEK-ur) n. The government office in England responsible for collecting taxes and other monies.
exclusive: (eks-KLOO-siv) adj. Not shared with others.
excommunicate: (eks-kuh-MYOO-nih-kayt) v. To cut off or exclude from membership in the church.
executive: (eg-ZEK-yuh-tiv) adj. The part of the government that carries out the laws.
exile: (eg-ZYL) n. Forced removal from one's own country.
exotic: (eg-ZOT-ik) adj. From another place; unusual or unfamiliar.
expedition: (ek-spuh-DISH-un) n. A journey or trip by an organized group of people with a definite goal.
experiment: (ek-SPER-uh-munt) v. To test.
expert: (EK-spurt) n. A person with a high degree of skill in or knowledge of a particular subject.
explosion: (ek-SPLOH-zhun) n. A sudden and great increase.
extended family: (ek-STEND-ud FAM-lee) n. A family unit including parents, children, and other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
extinct: (ek-STINGT) adj. No longer living.

F
fair: (fayr) n. An event to celebrate a special occasion (such as a saint's day), with entertainment, food and drinks, and goods for sale.
fallow: (FAL-oh) adj. Plowed but not planted during the growing season.
famine: (FAM-un) n. A long period with no food.
fanatical: (fuh-NAT-uh-kul) adj. Having extreme enthusiasm.
fast: (fast) v. To not eat any (or certain) food for a period of time.
federal: (FED-ur-ul) adj. Relating to a government with central power or authority.
fertilizer: (FURT-l-yz-ur) n. A material put in the soil to make it richer and produce more crops.
feudal: (FYOOD-l) adj. Refers to a political and economic system where one person gives another the use of land in return for loyalty and service; this kind of system is called feudalism.
fief: (feef) n. A piece of land given to a vassal by a lord.
fierce: (fihrs) adj. Extremely violent or ferocious.
figurehead: (FIG-yur-hed) n. A person who has the title of a leader, but no real power.
finance: (fih-NANS) v. To pay for or support.
financial: (fih-NAN-shul) adj. Having to do with money.
fine: (fyn) n. Money a person pays as a punishment for breaking a law.
fixed: (fixt) adj. Staying in one place; not moving.
Flemish: (FLEM-ish) adj. From Flanders, an area that is now part of the countries of France and Belgium.
flirtation: (flur-TAY-shun) n. A casual, playful love interest.
Florentine: (FLOR-un-teen) n. Someone who lives in Florence.
flourish: (FLUR-ish) v. To prosper; succeed; thrive.
forbidden: (fur-BIHD-un) adj. Not allowed.
forest: (FOR-ist) n. A large area of land covered with trees and thick brush.
fossil: (FOS-ul) n. Hardened remains of a plant or animal.
freedom: (FREE-dum) n. The ability to do as one likes; independence.

G
genius: (JEEN-yus) n. A person with exceptional intelligence or creativity.
geographical zone: (jee-uh-GRAF-uh-kul zohn) n. An area distinct from others because of its physical features, climate, vegetation, and animal life.
geometric: (jee-uh-MET-rik) adj. Using forms such as circles, triangles, and squares.
glorify: (GLOR-uh-fy) v. To honor or praise.
Gothic: (GOTH-ik) adj. Relating to the Goths, a Germanic people; later Europeans mistakenly thought the Goths had invented this style of architecture in the 500s; thus, they called it the "Gothic style."
graze: (grayz) v. To feed on growing grasses or other plant materials.
Great Britain: (grayt BRIH-tun) n. The countries of England, Wales, and Scotland that joined under one government in 1707.
greedy: (GREE-dee) adj. Wanting to have much more than one needs.
Guatemala City: (gwah-tuh-MAH-luh SIT-ee) n. The capital of Guatemala, a Central American country.
guild: (gild) n. An organization of people of the same trade or interests; people form guilds for protection, to maintain standards, or for other purposes.
gulf: (gulf) n. A large area of sea or ocean partly enclosed by land.

H
harmony: (HAR-muh-nee) n. Agreement; peace.
headquarters: (HED-kwor-turz) n. The offices of the person in charge.
Hejira: (hih-JY-ruh) n. The Arabic word meaning "emigrate."
hemisphere: (HEM-uh-sfir) n. One of the four "halves" of the world-the northern or southern half of the world divided by the equator, or the eastern or western half of the world divided by a meridian.
hereditary: (huh-RED-uh-tair-ee) adj. Passed from a parent or other ancestor to a child.
heretic: (HAYR-uh-tik) n. A person who has religious ideas and opinions not approved by the church.
hierarchical: (hy-ur-ARK-ih-kul) adj. Organized according to rank, authority, or importance.
Hispaniola: (his-pan-YOH-la) n. An island in the Caribbean Sea, east of Cuba; today the island is divided between the countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
hissing: (HISS-ing) n. Sharp "s" sound made by blowing air across the tongue.
hoax: (hohks) n. A trick.
holy day: (HOH-lee day) n. A special day of religious importance.
hostage: (HOS-tij) n. A person who is captured and held until money is paid or other demands are met.
house arrest: (hous uh-REST) n. Being confined to one's house, instead of a jail.
Huguenot: (HYOO-geh-not) n. A French Protestant.
hypothesis: (hy-POTH-uh-sus) n. A statement made as a basis for argument, experimentation, or reasoning.

I
ignorant: (IG-nur-unt) adj. Without education or knowledge.
illuminated: (ih-LOO-muh-nayt-ud) adj. Decorated with designs, bright colors, or valuable metals.
imaginary: (ih-MAJ-uh-ner-ee) adj. Not real.
imperial: (im-PIR-ee-ul) adj. Having to do with an empire or an emperor.
import: (IM-port) n. Something brought into one place from another place.
impress: (im-PRES) v. To feel deeply about.
Inca: (ING-kuh) n. "Lord" or "king" in Quechua (KEHCH-wuh), the official language of the Inca.
incense: (IN-sens) n. A substance that gives off a pleasant smell when burned.
incompetent: (in-KOM-puh-tunt) adj. Unfit; unable; not effective.
inconsistent: (in-KUN-sis-tunt) adj. Not in agreement.
inductive reasoning: (in-DUK-tiv REE-zuh-ning) n. Coming to a conclusion by going from the specific to the general.
indulgence: (in-DUL-jens) n. A document sold by the Roman Catholic Church to reduce or cancel punishment for a person's sins.
industry: (in-DUS-tree) n. A group of companies involved in a certain kind of work, such as the cloth-making industry.
infect: (in-FEKT) v. To contain harmful bacteria (germs).
infidel: (IN-fuh-dul) n. Someone without religious beliefs or who does not believe in another person's religion.
ingredient: (in-GREE-dee-unt) n. Something added or needed to make a mixture.
inherit: (in-HAYR-it) v. To receive from someone who has died.
inquisition: (in-kwuh-ZISH-un) n. Investigation.
inscription: (in-SKRIP-shun) n. Something carved into stone or other material.
institution: (in-stuh-TOO-shun) n. An established organization.
insurance company: (in-SHOOR-uns KOM-puh-nee) n. A company that agrees to provide financial protection against a loss in return for a payment.
integrate: (IN-tuh-grayt) v. To make into a whole by bringing all the parts together.
interference: (in-tur-FIR-unz) n. Getting involved with someone else's business or affairs.
internal: (in-TUR-nul) adj. Having to do with a country's own affairs.
interpreter: (in-TUR-prit-ur) n. A person who explains the meaning of something.
intolerable: (in-TOL-ur-uh-bul) adj. Unbearable; terrible.
intolerance: (in-TOL-ur-uns) n. Discrimination; prejudice.
invest: (in-VEST) v. To put money into something to make even more money.
irrigation systems: (ir-rih-GAY-shun SIS-tums) n. Methods to supply land with water, including dams, canals, and aqueducts.
isle: (yl) n. Island.
isolate: (Y-suh-layt) v. To separate; to be set apart from others.

J
jade: (jayd) n. A green stone.
jaguar: (JAG-wor) n. A large wild cat with black-spotted golden fur.
Jew: (joo) n. A descendant of the Hebrew people; a believer in Judaism.
judicial: (joo-DISH-ul) adj. The part of the government that explains and interprets the laws.

K
kami: (KAH-mih) n. Spirits or divine forces.
kneel: (neel) v. To fall or rest on bended knees.

L
lance: (lans) n. A weapon with a long wooden pole and a sharp metal head.
land mass: (land mas) n. A very large area of land, especially a continent.
lavish: (LAV-ish) adj. Great amounts; generous.
lay brother: (lay BRU-thur) n. A peasant who entered religious service; a lay brother usually did manual labor at the monastery.
legacy: (LEG-uh-see) n. Something handed down or left behind after a person dies.
legal: (LEE-gul) adj. Having to do with the law or rules of a community.
legend: (LEJ-und) n. A story handed down from earlier times.
legislative: (LEJ-is-lay-tiv) adj. The part of the government that makes the laws.
liberty: (LIB-ur-tee) n. The ability to act according to one's own choosing; not being controlled or restricted by others.
llama: (LAH-muh) n. A South American animal related to the camel; it is valued for its soft wool.
longbow: (LONG-boh) n. A five- to six-foot long wooden bow.
lord: (lord) n. A man of high rank who owned property and had peasants and soldiers working for him.

M
magnetic compass: (mag-NET-ik KOM-pus) n. An instrument used to determine geographical direction, consisting of an iron needle that always points north to give sailors information about the ship's direction.
magnificent: (mag-NIF-ih-sunt) adj. Lavish; grand; splendid.
magnify: (MAG-nih-fy) v. To make greater in size; to enlarge.
mainland: (MAYN-land) n. The principal area of land of a region.
maize: (mayz) n. Corn.
Mandinke: (mahn-DIHN-kuh) n. Mande-speaking West African people who lived in the southern Sahara region.
manners: (MAN-urz) n. The socially correct way of acting.
manor: (MAN-ur) n. The lord's estate, including his home on the estate.
manufacturing: (man-yoo-FAK-chur-ing) adj. The making of products from raw materials.
manuscript: (MAN-yoo-skript) n. A book or document.
maritime: (MAR-uh-tym) adj. Having to do with shipping or navigation.
massacre: (MAS-uh-kur) n. A fierce, brutal, or savage killing.
masterpiece: (MAS-tur-pees) n. An outstanding work of art or craft.
match: (mach) n. A person or thing able to compete with another of the same class or type.
material things: (muh-TIR-ee-ul thingz) n. Worldly possessions.
Mayan: (MAH-yun) n. The language spoken by the Maya people.
meditate: (MED-uh-tayt) v. To think about spiritual things.
meditation: (med-uh-TAY-shun) n. Thinking or reflecting.
mercantilism: (MUR-kun-teel-iz-um) n. An economic system where colonies provide raw materials to the ruling country and buy manufactured goods from that country.
mercy: (MUR-see) n. Kindness; compassion.
merit: (MAIR-it) n. Ability; deserving of reward or praise.
Mesoamerica: (mez-oh-uh-MER-ih-kuh) n. The geographical area from present-day central Mexico to the northern part of Costa Rica.
Messiah: (muh-SY-uh) n. The expected deliverer and king of the Jews.
microscope: (MY-kruh-skohp) n. An instrument that magnifies objects normally too small to be seen by the eye.
migrate: (MY-grayt) v. To move from one place and settle in another.
military: (MIL-uh-tair-ee) adj. Having to do with the army or war.
millet: (MIL-ut) n. A grain crop similar to wheat.
mineral: (MIN-ur-ul) n. A natural element such as gold or silver.
mining: (MY-ning) n. The digging of minerals such as gold or coal out of the ground.
mint: (mint) v. To make or produce coins or other kinds of money.
miserable: (MIZ-ur-uh-bul) adj. Very uncomfortable.
mission: (MISH-un) n. Special duty or work.
missionary: (MISH-uh-nair-ee) n. A person who goes to a foreign country to do religious work.
mistreat: (mis-TREET) v. To treat roughly or wrongly; to abuse.
moat: (moht) n. A wide, deep ditch, usually filled with water, around a town, fortress, or castle.
moderate: (MOD-ur-it) n. Someone who holds views that are not radical.
modern: (MOD-urn) adj. Of recent times; the present day.
molecule: (MOL-uh-kyool) n. The smallest unit of a substance; a tiny bit.
monarch: (MON-urk) n. A king, queen, or other royal ruler of a state.
monk: (munk) n. A man who pursues a life of religious service.
monument: (MON-yuh-munt) n. Something built to honor a person or event.
moral: (MOR-ul) adj. Goodness or correctness of human behavior.
moral standard: (MOR-ul STAN-durd) n. A way to compare what is "good" or "bad."
motto: (MOT-oh) n. A word or brief phrase that expresses a goal, principle, or ideal.
mummy: (MUM-ee) n. A dead body that has been preserved so it does not decay.
museum: (myoo-ZEE-um) n. A place where works of artistic, historical, or scientific interest are kept.
myth: (mith) n. A traditional story that tells about supernatural beings, heroes, or ancestors.

N
Nahuatl: (NAH-wat-ul) n. Language spoken by the Aztecs.
narrator: (NAIR-rayt-ur) n. A person who reads or tells a story.
nationalism: (NASH-un-ul-iz-um) n. The feeling of unity and identity that brings together people who speak the same language, have common ancestors and customs, and live in the same area.
native: (NAY-tiv) adj. Being born in or connected with a place by birth.
natural right: (NACH-ur-ul ryt) n. A right every person should have by nature.
natural boundary: (NACH-ur-ul BOUN-dree) n. Something natural such as a mountain range or river that marks the border or limit of an area.
Navarre: (nuh-VAR) n. A former kingdom extending from Spain into France.
navigation: (nav-uh-GAY-shun) n. The planning, setting, and controlling of a ship's direction.
nepotism: (NEP-uh-tiz-um) n. Giving special treatment to relatives or friends.
New Spain: (new spayn) n. The name given to Spain's colonies.
nomad: (NOH-mad) n. A person who does not live in the same place all year round.
Norman: (NOR-mun) n. A descendant of the Vikings who settled in Normandy, an area of northwestern France.
North Korea: (north koh-REE-uh) n. A Southeast Asian country on a peninsula.
Northwest Passage: (north-WEST PAS-ij) n. The sea route from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean through Canada and north of Alaska.

O
obligate: (OB-luh-gayt) v. To force or require.
observatory: (ub-ZUR-vuh-tor-ee) n. A building designed to be used to study the stars.
obsidian: (ob-SID-ee-un) n. A shiny, black natural glass.
official: (uh-FISH-ul) 1. adj. Approved by a government. 2. n. A government worker.
open-minded: (OH-pun MYN-did) adj. Being open to new or different ideas.
order: (OR-dur) n. An organization of people united by a common set of beliefs.
orthodox: (OR-thuh-doks) adj. Official; following the accepted or approved beliefs.
outline: (OUT-lyn) n. A general description.
outskirts: (OUT-skurtz) n. The edges of an area; not the center.

P
pagan: (PAY-gun) n. Not related to Islam, Christianity, or Judaism; not having any religion.
page: (payj) n. A boy who acts as a helper.
pagoda: (puh-GOH-duh) n. A religious building (usually in Asia) with many levels.
palace: (PAL-us) n. A large building where kings, queens, and their families live.
papal: (PAY-pul) adj. Having to do with the pope.
parallel: (PAYR-uh-lel) adj. Located side by side; areas that do not cross.
Parisian: (pu-RIZH-un) n. Someone who lives in Paris.
passion: (PASH-un) n. Any powerful emotion such as love, hate, joy, anger, or greed.
patron: (PAY-trun) n. A person who supports, protects, or champions something.
pause: (pahz) v. To stop briefly.
peasant: (PEZ-unt) n. A worker on or an owner of a small farm.
peddler: (PED-lur) n. A person who travels and sells small goods such as pots and cloth.
penance: (PEN-uns) n. Punishing oneself voluntarily for doing wrong.
peninsula: (puh-NIN-syuh-luh) n. A piece of land surrounded by water on three sides.
persecute: (PUR-suh-kyoot) v. To abuse, mistreat, or torture.
persuade: (pur-SWAYD) v. To convince or win over by argument, reason, or plea.
Peter: (PEE-tur) n. Peter was one of Jesus's 12 disciples; early Christians believed Jesus gave Peter the power to govern the church.
Philippines: (FIHL-uh-peenz) n. A group of islands south of Japan.
philosophe: (FIL-uh-sof) n. Any of the leading philosophical, political, and social writers of the French Enlightenment.
physics: (FIZ-iks) n. The science that studies objects and energy and how the two interact.
piedmont: (PEED-mont) n. The area at the bottom of a mountain or highlands area.
pilgrimage: (PIL-gruh-mij) n. A journey to a holy place.
pillar: (PIL-ur) n. A column that supports a building.
pirate: (PY-rit) n. A person who robs at sea.
planet: (PLAN-ut) n. A large sphere (ball) in the sky that moves around a star in a circular pattern; the earth is the third planet that circles around the sun.
plantation: (plan-TAY-shun) n. A large farm.
plaster: (PLAS-tur) n. A mixture of lime, sand, and water put on walls and ceilings to make them smooth.
plateau: (pla-TOH) n. A high, fairly level area of land.
plaza: (PLAZ-uh) n. A public square or open area.
pledge: (plej) v. To promise.
plunder: (PLUN-dur) v. To rob or steal goods, especially in time of war.
point: (poynt) n. An important reason.
policy: (POL-uh-see) n. A plan or course of action adopted by a government.
politics: (POL-uh-tiks) n. The policies, goals, or affairs of a government.
pope: (pohp) n. The head of the Western Christian Church (later the Roman Catholic Church); pope in Latin means "father."
porcelain: (PORS-lin) n. A hard, white pottery made with pure clay; also known as "china."
portrait: (POR-trit) n. A painting or likeness of a person, especially one showing the face.
Portuguese: (por-chuh-GEEZ) n. Related to Portugal, its people, or their language.
potion: (POH-shun) n. Mixture.
poverty: (POV-ur-tee) n. The condition of being poor.
preach: (preech) v. To teach about religious ideas.
precious stone: (PRESH-us stohn) n. Any mineral valued for its rarity and appearance, such as pearls.
prehistoric: (pree-his-TOR-ik) adj. The time before written history.
preserve: (prih-ZURV) v. To keep safe and in good condition.
press: (press) n. A large gathering or crowd.
prestige: (pre-STEEJ) n. Honor; influence.
printmaker: (PRINT-may-kur) n. A person who creates artwork by carving an image into a wooden block, putting ink on the carved image, and then pressing it on a piece of paper.
privilege: (PRIV-uh-lij) n. A special right or benefit.
profession: (pruh-FESH-un) n. The act of saying something openly or in public.
profit: (PROF-it) n. The money that is left over after all expenses have been paid.
progress: (PROG-res) n. Steady improvement.
promise: (PROM-us) n. Indication of future excellence or success.
proof: (proof) n. The evidence to show something.
prophet: (PROF-it) n. A person who speaks for God or who brings God's message to people.
prosperity: (pros-PER-uh-tee) n. Wealth and success.
proverb: (PROV-urb) n. A short saying that expresses a well-known truth.
province: (PROV-ins) n. A part of an empire or country outside the main city.
provincial: (pruh-VIN-shul) adj. Having to do with the provinces.
Prussia: (PRUSH-uh) n. A former state in what is now northern Germany and Poland.
Puritan: (PYOOR-uh-tun) n. A member of an English Protestant group who believed in strict discipline; Puritans wanted to "purify" the church and get rid of all traces of Roman Catholicism in England.

Q
quetzel: (ket-SAL) n. A Central American bird with gold-green and red feathers.
Qur 'an: (KOO-ran) n. The holy book of Islam; also spelled "Koran."

R
radical: (RAD-ih-kul) adj. Extreme; drastic.
radiocarbon dating: (ray-dee-oh-KAR-bun DAYT-ing) n. A scientific way to date plants and animals.
raid: (rayd) v. To attack suddenly or by surprise.
raider: (RAYD-ur) n. An outlaw; an attacker who takes things by force.
rain forest: (rayn FOR-ust) n. An evergreen forest in a tropical region that has a lot of rainfall (at least 100 inches) all year round; the soil is usually thin and poor, but the vegetation is rich and thick.
ram: (ram) n. A male sheep.
rampage: (RAM-payj) n. Violent action or behavior.
rank: (rank) n. Position in society.
ransom: (RAN-sum) n. A payment made to release a hostage.
rare: (rayr) adj. Uncommon; unusual.
ravine: (ruh-VEEN) n. A deep, narrow passage between two mountains.
reason: (REE-zun) n. Good judgment based on logic rather than emotions.
rebellion: (rih-BEL-yun) n. A revolt against someone in authority or power.
recant: (rih-KANT) v. To take back something said earlier.
redistribute: (ree-dis-TRIB-yoot) v. To distribute (give out) again in a different way.
refined: (rih-FYND) adj. Polite.
reform: (rih-FORM) v. To improve or make corrections.
regent: (REE-junt) n. One who acts as a ruler for someone too young or too sick to rule.
rekindle: (ree-KIHN-dul) v. To start or bring up again.
relative: (REL-uh-tiv) 1. adj. Something considered in reference to something else; not absolute. 2. n. A family member.
relay: (ree-LAY) adj. Passing something along from one person to another.
relic: (REL-ik) n. Something associated with a saint or holy person.
remarkable: (ree-MARK-uh-bul) adj. Worthy of notice; amazing.
Renaissance: (rehn-ih-SAHNZ) n. A revival of ancient Greek and Roman art, literature, and learning that began in Italy in the 1300s and spread throughout Europe.
repay: (ree-PAY) v. To give or pay back.
representative: (rep-rih-ZEN-tuh-tive) n. A person or group acting on behalf of the interests of a larger group.
republic: (rih-PUB-lik) n. A form of government where people choose their leaders.
reputation: (rep-yuh-TAY-shun) n. A person's character; what people think of a person.
reservoir: (REZ-ur-vor) n. A place where water is collected and stored.
resourceful: (rih-SORS-ful) adj. Being able to use things effectively and to your advantage.
restore: (rih-STOR) v. To bring back or reestablish.
revelation: (rev-uh-LAY-shun) n. A vision; something that is revealed or shown.
revere: (ree-VIHR) v. To think of with respect and awe.
revoke: (rih-VOHK) v. To withdraw or cancel.
revolt: (rih-VOHLT) v. To rebel against.
revolutionary: (rev-uh-LOO-shuh-nayr-ee) adj. A radical change.
revolve: (rih-VOLV) v. To circle around or orbit a certain point.
rice paddy: (rys PAD-ee) n. A specially irrigated or flooded field where rice is grown.
rightful: (RYT-ful) adj. Just; correct.
ritual: (RICH-oo-ul) n. A ceremony that takes place the same way every time.
rival: (RY-vul) n. A person who tries to equal or pass another person.
river basin: (RIV-ur BAY-sin) n. An area of land containing a river and all the streams that flow into it.
Roman Catholic Church: (ROH-mun CATH-lik church) n. The Christian Church split into two churches in 1054; after this split, the Christian Church in the western part of the Roman Empire became known as the "Roman Catholic Church."
rotate crops: (ROH-tayt kropz) v. To plant crops in a certain order.
ruins: (ROO-inz) n. The remains of something that has been destroyed.
ruthless: (ROOTH-lus) adj. Not having any compassion or mercy.

S
sacrament: (SAK-ruh-munt) n. Any of the Christian Church practices thought to have been started by Jesus Christ.
sacrifice: (SAK-ruh-fys) v. To kill or give up for a higher purpose.
safekeeping: (sayf-KEE-ping) n. Protection; care.
Sahel: (suh-HAYL) n. The flat, dry grasslands in western Africa between the Sahara desert to the north and the tropical forest areas to the south; this treeless area gets about four to eight inches of rain a year.
salon: (suh-LON) n. A social meeting to exchange ideas about literature, science, and philosophy.
satire: (SAT-yr) n. The use of humor to make fun of something by focusing on its worst features.
satisfy: (SAT-is-fy) v. To meet a need or expectation; to keep happy.
savannah: (suh-VAN-nuh) n. The grasslands south of the Sahara desert where the soil is more fertile; the area receives 10-18 inches of rain a year.
score: (skor) n. A group of 20.
scribe: (skryb) n. A writer or clerk.
sea: (see) n. A very large body of water within an ocean or surrounded by land.
sea chart: (see chart) n. A map or graph showing information about distance, sea depths, tides, currents, and general geography such as the location of dangerous reefs.
sect: (sekt) n. A group of people forming a distinct unit within a larger group.
secular: (SEK-yuh-lur) adj. Being concerned about human beings.
security: (sih-KYOOR-uh-tee) n. Safety; freedom from risk or danger.
sermon: (SUR-mun) n. A religious speech.
settlement: (SET-ul-munt) n. A small community; a village or town.
share: (shayr) n. Any of the equal parts of a company's finances.
shear: (sheer) v. To remove wool or hair by cutting or clipping with a sharp instrument.
Shinto: (SHIN-toh) n. A religion that worships ancestors and spirits in nature.
shogun: (SHOH-gun) n. A Japanese title meaning "great general."
shrine: (shryn) n. A place where holy objects are kept.
Silk Road: (silk rohd) n. A land trade route that linked China with Europe.
slogan: (SLOH-gun) n. A brief phrase that expresses a goal, principle, or ideal.
Soninke: (suhn-IHN-kay) n. The name of a West African group who ruled Ghana beginning about 780.
source: (sors) n. A person or thing that gives information.
specialized: (SPESH-uh-lyzd) adj. Specific or focused in one area; not general.
spiritual: (SPIR-ih-choo-ul) adj. Related to a church or religion; affecting the soul or spirit rather than the body.
spy: (spy) n. A person hired to secretly get information about others.
squash: (skwosh) n. A fleshy vegetable with a hard skin.
St.: (saynt) n. An abbreviation for the word "saint"; a saint is a person officially recognized by the Christian Church as having lived a very holy life.
stability: (stuh-BIL-uh-tee) n. A state of continuing without change; security.
Stamp Act: (stamp akt) n. A law passed by Parliament forcing the colonists to pay a tax on pamphlets, newspapers, and other documents.
standard: (STAN-durd) n. An agreed-upon measure of comparison.
standing army: (STAND-ing AR-mee) n. A permanent army of paid soldiers.
status: (STAT-us) n. Social position.
stela: (STEE-luh) n. An upright stone or slab used as a monument.
steppe: (step) n. A flat, grass-covered plain with few trees.
stockholder: (STOK-hohl-dur) n. A person who owns shares or "stocks" in a company.
storm: (storm) v. To move or rush violently or angrily.
strait: (strayt) n. A narrow passage of water joining two larger bodies of water.
stratified site: (STRAT-uh-fyd syt) n. A place in the earth where layers of materials can be exposed by archaeologists.
stronghold: (STRONG-hohld) n. Fortress or area with strong defenses.
subject: (SUB-jekt) n. A person under the rule of another.
submission: (sub-MISH-un) n. Giving in to the will or authority of another person.
submit: (sub-MIT) v. To surrender or give in to the will or authority of another.
successor: (suk-SES-ur) n. The person who replaces another in a position.
superstition: (soo-pur-STISH-un) n. A belief in magic or an irrational fear of something.
surplus: (sur-PLUS) n. More than what is needed; extra.
surrounding: (suh-ROUN-ding) adj. All around; on all sides.
survey: (sur-VAY) v. To look closely at and measure a land area.
suspension bridge: (suh-SPEN-shun brij) n. A bridge that hangs from ropes or cables.
swamp: (swomp) n. A very wet lowland area.
symbol: (SIM-bul) n. Something used to represent something else.

T
taxation without representation: (tak-SAY-shun without rep-rih-zen-TAY-shun) n. A situation where people are forced to pay a tax without having had a chance to voice their views about the tax.
technology: (tek-NOL-oh-jee) n. The application of science for practical uses.
tectonic plate: (tek-TON-ik playt) n. A large piece of the earth's crust.
telescope: (TEL-uh-skohp) n. An instrument for observing objects far away.
temple: (TEM-pul) n. A building where a god is worshiped.
tenant farmer: (TEN-unt FARM-ur) n. A person who farms land owned by another and pays rent.
terrace: (TER-is) n. A flat, narrow piece of ground cut into a steep slope, usually for creating flat land for farming.
territory: (TER-uh-tor-ee) n. An area of land; region.
theory: (THIR-ee) n. A set of assumptions or rules to explain something.
thesis: (THEE-sus) n. An idea or proposition; a point of view supported by reasons.
threat: (thret) n. Something or someone thought to be a possible danger.
thriftiness: (THRIFT-ee-nus) n. Careful and wise management of money and other resources.
Tibet: (tih-BET) n. A former country in southern Asia, northeast of India; now a region of China.
tip: (tip) n. The end of something, especially something pointed.
tolerate: (TOL-uh-rayt) v. To put up with; to allow.
toll: (tohl) n. A charge or fee to cross a bridge or to use a road.
tomb: (toom) n. A place where a dead body is buried.
torture: (TOR-chur) v. To cause severe pain or suffering.
tour: (toor) v. To visit places of interest.
transform: (trans-FORM) v. To change the form or appearance of.
translator: (trans-LAYT-ur) n. A person who tells what something says in another language.
transport: (trans-PORT) v. To move something from one place to another.
treasury: (TREZH-uh-ree) n. The government's funds or money.
treaty: (TREE-tee) n. An agreement or settlement.
Trent: (trent) n. A town in northern Italy.
tribute: (TRIB-yoot) n. A gift or payment to show loyalty, respect, or gratitude.
trivia: (TRIV-ee-uh) n. Insignificant matters.
tropical: (TROP-ih-kul) adj. Hot and humid.
truce: (troos) n. An agreement to stop fighting.
trumped up: (trumpt up) adj. Made up; false.
turban: (TUR-bun) n. A long cloth wrapped around the head.
tyrant: (TY-runt) n. A ruler who uses power in a harsh, cruel way.

U
unify: (YOO-nuh-fy) v. To bring together into a whole.
uninhabited: (un-in-HAB-uh-tid) adj. Not having any people living there.
unintended: (un-in-TEND-id) adj. Not planned.
unite: (yoo-NYT) v. To join together.
unpredictable: (un-prih-DIK-tuh-bul) adj. Uncertain; undependable.
uproar: (UP-ror) n. A violent, noisy disturbance or reaction.

V
vassal: (VAS-ul) n. A person who receives land from a lord and gives loyalty and service in return.
venerable: (VEN-ur-uh-bul) adj. Worthy of respect.
Venetian: (vuh-NEE-shun) n. Someone who lives in Venice.
victim: (VIK-tim) n. The person who is harmed from the act of another.
Vietnam: (vee-ET-nam) n. A country on the eastern coast of the Southeast Asian peninsula.
violate: (VY-uh-layt) v. To break intentionally or disregard.
vocation: (voh-KAY-shun) n. An occupation or profession.
volcano: (vol-KAY-noh) n. A hole in the earth's surface where lava (melted rock) and gases burst out.
voyage: (VOY-ij) n. A long journey across an ocean or sea to a foreign land.

W
War for Independence: (wor for in-dee-PEND-uns) n. The war American colonists fought against Great Britain to gain their independence; also called the Revolutionary War.
warehouse: (WAYR-hous) n. A place where goods are stored.
watchtower: (WOCH-tou-ur) n. A high place where a guard can look for enemies.
weaver: (WEE-vur) n. Someone who makes cloth by crossing one thread over another.
welfare: (WEL-fayr) n. Health, happiness, and general well-being.
wheelbarrow: (HWEEL-bayr-oh) n. A one- or two-wheeled cart with handles that is used by one person to carry small, heavy loads.
wisdom: (WIZ-dum) n. Understanding of what is true or right.
witchcraft: (WICH-kraft) n. Magic or sorcery; having dealings with the devil.
word of mouth: (wurd uv mowth) n. Orally; by speech.
worldly: (WURL-dlee) adj. Devoted to things other than religion and spirituality.
worship: (WUR-ship) v. To honor or adore.

Y
yam: (yam) n. A root vegetable like a potato.
yin and yang: (yin and yang) n. Opposite forces that complement each other; the yin is the passive, female force and the yang is the active, male force; the idea of "yin and yang" is represented by a circle with connected black and white halves.