vocabulary
UK: vəˈkæbjʊləri | US: voʊˈkæbjəleri
n. the body of words used in a particular language or by a specific group
n. a list or collection of words, often with definitions or translations
n. the range or stock of words employed by a person, group, or field
vocabulary = voc<call, voice> + abul<related to> + ary<noun suffix>
- voc (from Latin vocare "to call" or vox "voice") → retains core meaning of speech or naming.
- abul (derived from Latin -abilis, indicating capability or relation) → links to the concept of "pertaining to."
- ary (Latin -arius suffix forming nouns) → denotes a collective or category.
Etymology Origin:
The word vocabulary traces back to Latin vocabularium, a medieval term for a word list. It combines vocare (to call/speak) with -arium (a place or collection), reflecting its role as a "storehouse of words." Over time, it evolved from literal lists (e.g., glossaries) to abstractly represent one’s lexical knowledge. The morphemes highlight its roots in oral and written language systems.
She has an impressive vocabulary for a five-year-old.
The textbook includes a vocabulary section at the end of each chapter.
Technical fields often require mastery of specialized vocabulary.
His limited vocabulary made it hard to express complex ideas.
The app helps users expand their vocabulary through daily exercises.