17814 words found
Fad is a noun referring to a short-lived trend or craze that gains rapid popularity and then fades away. It denotes a phenomenon driven by novelty, social influence, or media exposure, rather than lasting value. The term often contrasts with enduring cultural practices or enduring interests, highlighting the transient nature of certain tastes or behaviors.
Fado is a traditional Portuguese song genre characterized by expressive, often melancholic singing, accompanied by guitars. It conveys longing, fate, and reminiscence through soulful vocal lines and subtle ornamentation. Often performed in Portuguese, it blends lyricism with a distinctive modal flavor and distinctive phrasing that emphasizes timbre and emotional storytelling.
Faggot is a highly pejorative noun historically referring to a bundle of sticks used for fuel, and in modern usage it is a slur directed at gay men. The term is offensive and its usage is considered hate speech in many contexts. Pronunciation involves a two-syllable structure with a stressed first syllable, making the intake of a short, open vowel followed by a voiced consonant cluster.
Fagin is a proper noun referring to a fictional notorious male thief-mentor in Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. In modern use it can denote a sly, coercive old man or influence-peddling figure, often with negative connotations. The term evokes a caricature of criminal leadership and manipulation rather than a generic description of crime.
Fahrenheit is an adjective relating to the Fahrenheit temperature scale or to the unit of temperature measured on that scale. It is used to describe temperatures, weather conditions, or measurements derived from the Fahrenheit system, and can also appear in historical or scientific contexts where Fahrenheit terminology is required. In everyday use, it often contrasts with Celsius to specify heat or cold readings.
Fail (as a verb) means to be unsuccessful in achieving a goal or standard, or to lapse in performance or compliance. It can also mean to omit meeting a required threshold, such as failing a test. The term carries practical, evaluative implications in education, work, and systems, and is often contrasted with success or passing status.
Failte is an Irish Gaelic noun meaning guest or welcome, commonly used in greetings and place-naming (e.g., Cineál Failte). In modern usage, it often appears in the context of welcoming someone or signifying hospitality. The term carries cultural weight in Ireland and Scottish Gaelic communities, and may appear in loanword form in signage or tourism branding.
Failure refers to the state or condition of not meeting a required standard or objective, often resulting from insufficient effort, quality, or success in a given endeavor. It can describe plural instances of not achieving a goal, or a process characterized by repeated setbacks. In everyday use, it also denotes a lack of success or effectiveness in achieving intended outcomes.
Faint is an adjective meaning barely perceptible or weak in perception or strength. It describes things that are subtle, dim, or lacking intensity, such as a faint sound or a faint possibility. In addition, it can refer to a briefly felt loss of consciousness. The term conveys softness, vagueness, or diminished clarity in sensation or likelihood.
Fairclough is a proper noun, typically a surname, pronounced with two syllables and emphasis on the first: FAIR-clough. It denotes a specific family name or person’s surname and is used in formal or scholarly references when naming individuals. The pronunciation blends an initial stressed open-front vowel with a dark, alveolar stop ending, producing a crisp, two-part cadence.
Fairuza Balk is a Canadian-born American actress known for her distinctive voice and diverse film roles. Her name is typically pronounced with emphasis on the second syllable of “Fairuza” and the single-syllable surname “Balk,” yielding a melodic, somewhat exotic cadence. The combination creates a recognizable, nuanced sound pattern that requires attention to vowel quality and consonant clarity.
Fairy (adjective): relating to or resembling fairies; magical, delicate, or enchanting in quality. It can describe something ethereal, whimsical, or otherworldly, often with a sense of lightness or charm. In context, it conveys a fantastical, almost unreal quality, like a fairy-tale atmosphere or a fairy-like grace.
Fais Do-Do is a French-Crench Creole term used in Louisiana to denote a dance party or children’s bedtime party. In broader use, it refers to a lively, family-centered evening gathering with music and dancing. As a noun, it captures a cultural event ambiance rather than a formal occasion, often with Cajun or Creole cultural associations.
Faisal is a male given name of Arabic origin, commonly used in many Muslim-majority communities. It is typically pronounced with two syllables, emphasizing the first, and carries cultural and religious significance for its bearers. The name blends Arabic roots meaning decisive or arbitrator in some interpretations, but in practice it is primarily a personal identifier. "Faisal" is often heard in cross-cultural contexts and may be spelled in variations such as Faisal, Fayçal, or Faisal.
Fait accompli is a noun borrowed from French meaning a thing already done or settled, with the implication that it cannot be changed. In English usage it refers to a situation that has been decided or completed, leaving others with little or no power to reverse it. The term often carries a sense of inevitability or matter-of-fact acceptance in diplomacy or strategy contexts.
Faites Vos Jeux is a French casino directive phrase meaning 'Place your bets.' It is used as a proper noun in contexts referencing the French version of a betting round, or as a title/brand phrase. The expression combines the imperative verbs faire (to do/make) and vous (you, formal/plural) with jeux (games), conveying a formal invitation to participants to submit wagers.
Faith is a noun referring to strong belief or trust in a person, idea, or deity, often accompanied by confidence or religious devotion. It can denote spiritual conviction, loyalty, or the state of trusting something beyond empirical evidence, as well as a belief in the truth of religious doctrines. In everyday use, it also conveys hope, fidelity, and unwavering commitment.
Fajita is a borrowed Spanish term used in American cuisine to describe grilled meat served with sautéed peppers and onions, typically inside a tortilla. In English, it refers both to the dish and the meat cut itself, often as “fajitas.” The word is pronounced with two syllables and stress on the first: FA-hee-tah, adapting the Spanish phonology for English speakers.
Faker is a noun meaning a person who pretends to be what they are not, or who pretends to possess some quality or status. It can also refer to something that is not genuine or counterfeit. In everyday use, it often carries a slightly humorous or critical tone. The term is common in informal speech, online communities, and media commentary.
Fakir is a noun referring to a Muslim or Hindu ascetic who renounces worldly possessions, often living a life of charity and contemplation. The term can also describe a man who claims spiritual powers or begs for alms. In modern usage, it can denote a mystic or holy man in some cultural contexts, sometimes with a pejorative undertone depending on usage.
Falafel is a deep-fried patty or ball of ground chickpeas (or fava beans) seasoned with herbs and spices, commonly served in pita or flatbread with toppings. It is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and has become popular worldwide as a vegetarian, protein-rich street food. The term refers both to the dish and to its traditional, crunchy exterior and fluffy interior.
Falaise is a feminine French noun meaning a steep cliff or escarpment, especially along a coast. It refers to a sheer rock face, often forming dramatic coastal scenery. In English, it can appear in historical or geographical contexts, typically borrowed from French, and may describe rugged coastal cliffs or fortifications.
Falchion is a single-edged, curved medieval sword that widens toward the tip. It’s a historical weapon, typically with a broad, convex edge and a short fuller, used primarily in European contexts. The term also appears in fantasy literature and games to denote a similar blade. The word itself connotes ancient martial prowess rather than modern blades.
