vocabulary
vuh-KAB-yuh-luh-ree
Vocabulary (noun) means All the words someone knows and uses, or all the words belonging to a particular subject or language. Example: “My little brother's vocabulary grows every week as he learns new words at school.”
noun
1
All the words someone knows and uses, or all the words belonging to a particular subject or language.
"My little brother's vocabulary grows every week as he learns new words at school."
"Reading widely is a great way to build your vocabulary."
"Medical vocabulary can be intimidating for new students."
"My Russian vocabulary is very limited."
How to use vocabulary
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe set of words a person or field uses.
Common pairings
expand your vocabulary
limited vocabulary
technical vocabulary
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like vocabulary.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- vocabularies
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
My little brother's _____ grows every week as he learns new words at school.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin vocabularium, from Latin vocabulum, "a word, name."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for vocabulary
See all rhymes for vocabulary →Frequently asked questions
What does “vocabulary” mean?
The word “vocabulary” means all the words someone knows and uses, or all the words belonging to a particular subject or language. In plain terms, the set of words a person or field uses.
How do you pronounce “vocabulary”?
“Vocabulary” is pronounced vuh-KAB-yuh-luh-ree (/voʊˈkæb.jəˌlɛɹ.i/ in IPA).
How do you use “vocabulary” in a sentence?
Here is “vocabulary” used in a sentence: “Reading widely is a great way to build your vocabulary.”
What is another word for “vocabulary”?
Words with a similar meaning to “vocabulary” include dictionary.
What part of speech is “vocabulary”?
“Vocabulary” is a noun.
Where does the word “vocabulary” come from?
The word “vocabulary” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin vocabularium, from Latin vocabulum, "a word, name.".
Is “vocabulary” a common word?
“Vocabulary” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between 'vocabulary' and 'lexicon'?
'Vocabulary' generally refers to the words an individual person knows and uses, or the words specific to a subject, while 'lexicon' is a more formal or technical term often used for the complete word stock of a language or field. In everyday speech, 'vocabulary' is far more common, while 'lexicon' appears more in academic or linguistic writing.
What does it mean to have a 'strong vocabulary'?
Having a 'strong vocabulary' means knowing and being able to use a wide range of words accurately and appropriately. It's often seen as a sign of good reading habits, education, or communication skill.
What is 'technical vocabulary' or 'specialized vocabulary'?
Technical or specialized vocabulary refers to the specific set of words and terms used within a particular subject, profession, or field, such as medical or legal vocabulary. These words may be unfamiliar to general speakers but are essential for communicating precisely within that area.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include vocabulary:
