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The words defined here are used as the basis on which to build a vocabulary and set of definitions for the terms needed to define and discuss software agents.
These definitions of English words were derived from the Merriam-Webster WWWebster Online Dictionary located at <http://www.m-w.com/dictionary.htm>. None of the wording has been changed, but some definitions have been left out if, in my opinion, they weren't particularly relevant to the purpose of this page.
agent
1 : one that acts or exerts power
2 a : something that produces or is capable of producing an effect :
an active or efficient cause
b : a chemically, physically, or biologically active principle
3 : a means or instrument by which a guiding intelligence achieves
a result
4 : one who is authorized to act for or in the place of another:
as a : a representative, emissary, or official of a government
b : one engaged in undercover activities (as espionage) :
SPY
c : a business representative (as of an athlete or entertainer)
aim
2 a : the pointing of a weapon at a mark
b : the ability to hit a target
c : a weapon's accuracy or effectiveness
3 obsolete a : CONJECTURE, GUESS
b : the directing of effort toward a goal
4 : a clearly directed intent or purpose
analytic
1 : of or relating to analysis or analytics;
especially : separating something into component parts or
constituent elements
2 : being a proposition (as "no bachelor is married") whose truth is
evident from the meaning of the words it contains -- compare SYNTHETIC
3 : skilled in or using analysis especially in thinking or reasoning
4 : characterized by analysis rather than inflection
5 : PSYCHOANALYTIC
6 : treated or treatable by or using the methods of algebra and calculus
7 a of a function of a real variable : capable of being expanded in a
Taylor's series in powers of x h in some neighborhood of the point h
b of a function of a complex variable : differentiable at every point
in some neighborhood of a given point or points
artificial
1 : humanly contrived often on a natural model : MAN-MADE
2 a : having existence in legal, economic, or political theory
b : caused or produced by a human and especially social or
political agency
3 obsolete : ARTFUL, CUNNING
4 a : lacking in natural or spontaneous quality
[??? where's "b"???]
c : IMITATION, SHAM
5 : based on differential morphological characters not necessarily
indicative of natural relationships
artificial intelligence
1 : the capability of a machine to imitate intelligent human behavior
2 : a branch of computer science dealing with the simulation of
intelligent behavior in computers
attribute
1 : an inherent characteristic; also : an accidental quality
2 : an object closely associated with or belonging to a specific
person, thing, or office ;
especially : such an object used for identification in painting
or sculpture
3 : a word ascribing a quality; especially : ADJECTIVE
be
1 a : to equal in meaning : have the same connotation as :
SYMBOLIZE
b : to have identity with
c : to constitute the same class as
d : to have a specified qualification or characterization
e : to belong to the class of -- used
regularly in senses 1a through 1e as the copula of simple
predication
2 a : to have an objective existence : have reality or actuality :
LIVE
b : to have, maintain, or occupy a place, situation, or position
c : to remain unmolested, undisturbed, or uninterrupted
-- used only in infinitive form
d : to take place : OCCUR
e : to come or go
f archaic : BELONG, BEFALL
behavior
1 a : the manner of conducting oneself
b : anything that an organism does involving action and response
to stimulation
c : the response of an individual, group, or species to its environment
2 : the way in which someone behaves; also : an instance of such behavior
3 : the way in which something functions or operates
being
1 a : the quality or state of having existence
b (1) : something conceivable as existing
(2) : something that actually exists
(3) : the totality of existing things
c : conscious existence : LIFE
2 : the qualities that constitute an existent thing : ESSENCE;
especially : PERSONALITY
3 : a living thing; especially : PERSON
binomial nomenclature
a system of nomenclature in which each species of animal or plant receives
a name of two terms of which the first identifies the genus to which it
belongs and the second the species itself
category
1 : any of several fundamental and distinct classes to which entities or
concepts belong
2 : a division within a system of classification
characteristic
1 : a distinguishing trait, quality, or property
2 : the integral part of a common logarithm
3 : the smallest positive integer n which for an operation in a ring or
field yields 0 when any element is used n times with the operation
class
2 a : a group sharing the same economic or social status
b : social rank; especially : high social rank
c : high quality : ELEGANCE
3 : a group, set, or kind sharing common attributes:
as a : a major category in biological taxonomy ranking above the order
and below the phylum or division
b : a collection of adjacent and discrete or continuous values of
a random variable
c : SET
4 : a division or rating based on grade or quality
5 : the best of its kind
classification
1 : the act or process of classifying
2 a : systematic arrangement in groups or categories according to established
criteria; specifically : TAXONOMY
b : CLASS, CATEGORY
clever
1 a : skillful or adroit in using the hands or body : NIMBLE
b : mentally quick and resourceful but often lacking in depth
and soundness
2 : marked by wit or ingenuity
3 dialect
a : GOOD
b : easy to use or handle
clone
1 a : the aggregate of the asexually produced progeny of an individual;
also : a group of replicas of all or part of a macromolecule
(as DNA or an antibody)
b : an individual grown from a single somatic cell of its parent
and genetically identical to it
2 : one that appears to be a copy of an original form
verb
1 : to propagate a clone from
2 : to make a copy of
comprehend
1 : to grasp the nature, significance, or meaning of
2 : to contain or hold within a total scope, significance, or amount
3 : to include by construction or implication
comprehension
1 a : the act or action of grasping with the intellect : UNDERSTANDING
b : knowledge gained by comprehending
c : the capacity for understanding fully
2 a : the act or process of comprising
b : the faculty or capability of including : COMPREHENSIVENESS
3 : CONNOTATION 3
computer
one that computes;
specifically : a programmable electronic device that can store,
retrieve, and process data
concept
1 : something conceived in the mind : THOUGHT, NOTION
2 : an abstract or generic idea generalized from particular instances
culture
2 : the act of developing the intellectual and moral faculties especially
by education
3 : expert care and training
4 a : enlightenment and excellence of taste acquired by intellectual and
aesthetic training
b : acquaintance with and taste in fine arts, humanities, and broad
aspects of science as distinguished from vocational and technical skills
5 a : the integrated pattern of human knowledge, belief, and behavior that
depends upon man's capacity for learning and transmitting knowledge
to succeeding generations
b : the customary beliefs, social forms, and material traits of a racial,
religious, or social group
c : the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that
characterizes a company or corporation
6 : cultivation of living material in prepared nutrient media;
also : a product of such cultivation
cyberspace
the on-line world of computer networks
definition
1 : an act of determining; specifically : the formal proclamation
of a Roman Catholic dogma
2 a : a statement expressing the essential nature of something
b : a statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign
or symbol
c : a product of defining
3 : the action or process of defining
4 a : the action or the power of describing, explaining, or making
definite and clear
b (1) : clarity of visual presentation : distinctness of outline
or detail
(2) : clarity especially of musical sound in reproduction
c : sharp demarcation of outlines or limits
device
1 : something devised or contrived:
as a (1) : PLAN, PROCEDURE, TECHNIQUE
(2) : a scheme to deceive : STRATAGEM, TRICK
b : something fanciful, elaborate, or intricate in design
c : something (as a figure of speech) in a literary work
designed to achieve a particular artistic effect
d archaic : MASQUE, SPECTACLE
e : a conventional stage practice or means (as a stage
whisper) used to achieve a particular dramatic effect
f : a piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve
a special purpose or perform a special function
2 : DESIRE, INCLINATION
3 : an emblematic design used especially as a heraldic bearing
dictionary
1 : a reference book containing words usually alphabetically arranged
along with information about their forms, pronunciations,
functions, etymologies, meanings, and syntactical and idiomatic uses
2 : a reference book listing alphabetically terms or names important to
a particular subject or activity along with discussion of their
meanings and applications
3 : a reference book giving for words of one language equivalents in another
4 : a list (as of items of data or words) stored in a computer for reference
(as for information retrieval or word processing)
digital computer
a computer that operates with numbers expressed directly as digits
distinguish
1 : to perceive a difference in : mentally separate
2 a : to mark as separate or different
b : to separate into kinds, classes, or categories
c : to give prominence or distinction to
d : CHARACTERIZE
3 a : DISCERN
b : to single out : take special notice of
intransitive senses : to perceive a difference
elegance
1 a : refined grace or dignified propriety : URBANITY
b : tasteful richness of design or ornamentation
c : dignified gracefulness or restrained beauty of style : POLISH
d : scientific precision, neatness, and simplicity
2 : something that is elegant
end
1 a : the part of an area that lies at the boundary
b (1) : a point that marks the extent of something
(2) : the point where something ceases to exist
c : the extreme or last part lengthwise : TIP
d : the terminal unit of something spatial that is marked off by units
e : a player stationed at the extremity of a line (as in football)
2 a : cessation of a course of action, pursuit, or activity
b : DEATH, DESTRUCTION
c (1) : the ultimate state
(2) : RESULT, ISSUE
3 : something incomplete, fragmentary, or undersized : REMNANT
4 a : an outcome worked toward : PURPOSE
b : the object by virtue of or for the sake of which an event
takes place
5 a : a share in an undertaking
b : a particular operation or aspect of an undertaking or
organization
6 : something that is extreme : ULTIMATE -- used with the
7 : a period of action or turn in any of various sports events
(as archery or lawn bowling)
entity
1 a : BEING, EXISTENCE; especially : independent, separate, or
self-contained existence
b : the existence of a thing as contrasted with its attributes
2 : something that has separate and distinct existence and objective
or conceptual reality
environment
1 : the circumstances, objects, or conditions by which one is surrounded
2 a : the complex of physical, chemical, and biotic factors (as climate,
soil, and living things) that act upon an organism or an ecological
community and ultimately determine its form and survival
b : the aggregate of social and cultural conditions that influence the
life of an individual or community
3 : the position or characteristic position of a linguistic element in a
sequence
ethic
1 plural but singular or plural in construction : the discipline
dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation
2 a : a set of moral principles or values
b : a theory or system of moral values
c plural but singular or plural in construction : the principles of
conduct governing an individual or a group
d : a guiding philosophy
expert
1 obsolete : EXPERIENCED
2 : having, involving, or displaying special skill or knowledge
derived from training or experience
goal
1 a : the terminal point of a race
b : an area to be reached safely in children's games
2 : the end toward which effort is directed : AIM
3 a : an area or object toward which players in various games attempt
to advance a ball or puck and usually through or into which it
must go to score points
b : the act or action of causing a ball or puck to go through or into
such a goal
c : the score resulting from such an act
human
noun
a bipedal primate mammal (Homo sapiens) : MAN;
broadly : any living or extinct member of the family (Hominidae) to
which the primate belongs
adjective
1 : of, relating to, or characteristic of humans
2 : consisting of humans
3 a : having human form or attributes
b : susceptible to or representative of the sympathies and frailties
of human nature
idea
1 a : a transcendent entity that is a real pattern of which existing
things are imperfect representations
b : a standard of perfection : IDEAL
c : a plan for action : DESIGN
2 archaic : a visible representation of a conception : a replica of
a pattern
3 a obsolete : an image recalled by memory
b : an indefinite or unformed conception
c : an entity (as a thought, concept, sensation, or image) actually
or potentially present to consciousness
4 : a formulated thought or opinion
5 : whatever is known or supposed about something
6 : the central meaning or chief end of a particular action or situation
7 Christian Science : an image in Mind
intelligence
1 a (1) : the ability to learn or understand or to deal with new
or trying situations : REASON; also : the skilled use
of reason
(2) : the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one's
environment or to think abstractly as measured by
objective criteria (as tests)
b Christian Science : the basic eternal quality of divine Mind
c : mental acuteness : SHREWDNESS
2 a : an intelligent entity; especially : ANGEL
b : intelligent minds or mind
3 : the act of understanding : COMPREHENSION
4 a : INFORMATION, NEWS
b : information concerning an enemy or possible enemy or an area;
also : an agency engaged in obtaining such information
5 : the ability to perform computer functions
intelligent
1 a : having or indicating a high or satisfactory degree of
intelligence and mental capacity
b : revealing or reflecting good judgment or sound
thought : SKILLFUL
2 a : possessing intelligence
b : guided or directed by intellect : RATIONAL
3 a : guided or controlled by a computer; especially : using a
built-in microprocessor for automatic operation, for
processing of data, or for achieving greater versatility
-- compare DUMB 7
b : able to produce printed material from digital signals
intention
1 : a determination to act in a certain way : RESOLVE
2 : IMPORT, SIGNIFICANCE
3 a : what one intends to do or bring about
b : the object for which a prayer, mass, or pious act is offered
4 : a process or manner of healing of incised wounds
5 : CONCEPT; especially : a concept considered as the product of
attention directed to an object of knowledge
6 plural : purpose with respect to marriage
kind
1 a archaic : NATURE
b archaic : FAMILY, LINEAGE
2 archaic : MANNER
3 : fundamental nature or quality : ESSENCE
4 a : a group united by common traits or interests : CATEGORY
b : a specific or recognized variety
c : a doubtful or barely admissible member of a category
5 a : goods or commodities as distinguished from money
b : the equivalent of what has been offered or received
knowledge
1 obsolete : COGNIZANCE
2 a (1) : the fact or condition of knowing something with familiarity
gained through experience or association
(2) : acquaintance with or understanding of a science, art, or
technique
b (1) : the fact or condition of being aware of something
(2) : the range of one's information or understanding
c : the circumstance or condition of apprehending truth or fact
through reasoning : COGNITION
d : the fact or condition of having information or of being learned
4 a : the sum of what is known : the body of truth, information, and
principles acquired by mankind
b archaic : a branch of learning
learn
transitive senses
1 a (1) : to gain knowledge or understanding of or skill in by study,
instruction, or experience
(2) : MEMORIZE
b : to come to be able
c : to come to realize
2 a nonstand : TEACH
b obsolete : to inform of something
3 : to come to know : HEAR
intransitive senses : to acquire knowledge or skill or a behavioral tendency
lexicon
1 : a book containing an alphabetical arrangement of the words in a
language and their definitions : DICTIONARY
2 a : the vocabulary of a language, an individual speaker or group
of speakers, or a subject
b : the total stock of morphemes in a language
3 : REPERTOIRE, INVENTORY
machine
1 a archaic : a constructed thing whether material or immaterial
b : CONVEYANCE, VEHICLE; especially : AUTOMOBILE
c archaic : a military engine
d : any of various apparatuses formerly used to produce stage effects
e (1) : an assemblage of parts that transmit forces, motion, and
energy one to another in a predetermined manner
(2) : an instrument (as a lever) designed to transmit or modify
the application of power, force, or motion
f : a mechanically, electrically, or electronically operated device for
performing a task
g : a coin-operated device
h : MACHINERY -- used with the or in plural
2 a : a living organism or one of its functional systems
b : a person or organization that resembles a machine (as in being
methodical, tireless, or unemotional)
c (1) : a combination of persons acting together for a common end
along with the agencies they use
(2) : a highly organized political group under the leadership of
a boss or small clique
3 : a literary device or contrivance introduced for dramatic effect
mean, meaning
transitive senses
1 a : to have in the mind as a purpose : INTEND
-- sometimes used interjectionally with I, chiefly in informal
speech for emphasis or to introduce
a phrase restating the point of a preceding phrase
b : to design for or destine to a specified purpose or future
2 : to serve or intend to convey, show, or indicate : SIGNIFY
3 : to have importance to the degree of
4 : to direct to a particular individual
intransitive senses : to have an intended purpose
mechanism
1 a : a piece of machinery
b : a process or technique for achieving a result
2 : mechanical operation or action : WORKING 2
3 : a doctrine that holds natural processes (as of life) to be
mechanically determined and capable of complete explanation by the
laws of physics and chemistry
4 : the fundamental physical or chemical processes involved in or
responsible for an action, reaction, or other natural phenomenon
(as organic evolution)
name
1 a : a word or phrase that constitutes the distinctive designation
of a person or thing
b : a word or symbol used in logic to designate an entity
2 : a descriptive often disparaging epithet
3 a : REPUTATION
b : an illustrious record : FAME
c : a person or thing with a reputation
4 : FAMILY, CLAN
5 : appearance as opposed to reality
6 : one referred to by a name
natural
1 : based on an inherent sense of right and wrong
2 a : being in accordance with or determined by nature
b : having or constituting a classification based on features existing
in nature
3 a (1) : begotten as distinguished from adopted; also : LEGITIMATE
(2) : being a relation by actual consanguinity as distinguished from
adoption
b : ILLEGITIMATE
4 : having an essential relation with someone or something :
following from the nature of the one in question
5 : implanted or being as if implanted by nature : seemingly inborn
6 : of or relating to nature as an object of study and research
7 : having a specified character by nature
8 a : occurring in conformity with the ordinary course of nature :
not marvelous or supernatural
b : formulated by human reason alone rather than revelation
c : having a normal or usual character
9 : possessing or exhibiting the higher qualities (as kindliness and
affection) of human nature
10 a : growing without human care; also : not cultivated
b : existing in or produced by nature : not artificial
c : relating to or being natural food
11 a : being in a state of nature without spiritual enlightenment :
UNREGENERATE
b : living in or as if in a state of nature untouched by the
influences of civilization and society
12 a : having a physical or real existence as contrasted with one that is
spiritual, intellectual, or fictitious
b : of, relating to, or operating in the physical as opposed to the
spiritual world
13 a : closely resembling an original : true to nature
b : marked by easy simplicity and freedom from artificiality,
affectation, or constraint c : having a form or appearance
found in nature
14 a : having neither flats nor sharps
b : being neither sharp nor flat
c : having the pitch modified by the natural sign
nature
1 a : the inherent character or basic constitution of a person or
thing : ESSENCE
b : DISPOSITION, TEMPERAMENT
2 a : a creative and controlling force in the universe
b : an inner force or the sum of such forces in an individual
3 : a kind or class usually distinguished by fundamental or essential
characteristics
4 : the physical constitution or drives of an organism;
especially : an excretory organ or function -- used in phrases
like the call of nature
5 : a spontaneous attitude (as of generosity)
6 : the external world in its entirety
7 a : humankind's original or natural condition
b : a simplified mode of life resembling this condition
8 : the genetically controlled qualities of an organism
9 : natural scenery
object
1 a : something material that may be perceived by the senses
b : something that when viewed stirs a particular emotion (as pity)
2 : something mental or physical toward which thought, feeling, or
action is directed
3 a : the goal or end of an effort or activity : PURPOSE, OBJECTIVE
b : a cause for attention or concern
4 : a thing that forms an element of or constitutes the subject
matter of an investigation or science
5 a : a noun or noun equivalent (as a pronoun, gerund, or clause)
denoting the goal or result of the action of a verb
b : a noun or noun equivalent in a prepositional phrase
network
1 : a fabric or structure of cords or wires that cross at regular
intervals and are knotted or secured at the crossings
2 : a system of lines or channels resembling a network
3 a : an interconnected or interrelated chain, group, or system
b : a system of computers, terminals, and databases connected
by communications lines
4 a : a group of radio or television stations linked by wire or
radio relay
b : a radio or television company that produces programs for
broadcast over such a network
nimble
1 : quick and light in motion : AGILE
2 a : marked by quick, alert, clever conception, comprehension,
or resourcefulness
b : RESPONSIVE, SENSITIVE
nomenclature
1 : NAME, DESIGNATION
2 : the act or process or an instance of naming
3 a : a system or set of terms or symbols especially in a particular science,
discipline, or art
b : an international system of standardized New Latin names used in biology
for kinds and groups of kinds of animals and plants
objective
1 : a lens or system of lenses that forms an image of an object
2 a : something toward which effort is directed : an aim, goal,
or end of action
b : a strategic position to be attained or a purpose to be achieved
by a military operation
ontology
1 : a branch of metaphysics concerned with the nature and relations of being
2 : a particular theory about the nature of being or the kinds of existents
organization
1 a : the act or process of organizing or of being organized
b : the condition or manner of being organized
2 a : ASSOCIATION, SOCIETY
b : an administrative and functional structure (as a business or
a political party); also : the personnel of such a structure
organize
transitive senses
1 : to cause to develop an organic structure
2 : to form into a coherent unity or functioning whole : INTEGRATE
3 a : to set up an administrative structure for
b : to persuade to associate in an organization;
especially : UNIONIZE
4 : to arrange by systematic planning and united effort
intransitive senses
1 : to undergo physical or organic organization
2 : to arrange elements into a whole of interdependent parts
3 : to form an organization; specifically : to form or persuade
workers to join a union
plan
1 : a drawing or diagram drawn on a plane:
as a : a top or horizontal view of an object
b : a large-scale map of a small area
2 a : a method for achieving an end
b : an often customary method of doing something : PROCEDURE
c : a detailed formulation of a program of action
d : GOAL, AIM
3 : an orderly arrangement of parts of an overall design or objective
4 : a detailed program (as for payment or the provision of some
service)
polish
1 b : freedom from rudeness or coarseness : CULTURE
c : a state of high development or refinement
procedure
1 a : a particular way of accomplishing something or of acting
b : a step in a procedure
2 a : a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
b : a series of instructions for a computer that has a name by
which it can be called into action
3 a : a traditional or established way of doing things
b : PROTOCOL 3a
program
1 [Late Latin programma, from Greek] : a public notice
2 a : a brief usually printed outline of the order to be followed,
of the features to be presented, and the persons participating
(as in a public exercise or performance)
b : the performance of a program; especially : a performance
broadcast on radio or television
3 : a plan or system under which action may be taken toward a goal
4 : CURRICULUM
5 : PROSPECTUS, SYLLABUS
6 a : a plan for the programming of a mechanism (as a computer)
b : a sequence of coded instructions that can be inserted into a
mechanism (as a computer);
also : such a sequence that is part of an organism's genotype
or behavioral repertoire
property
1 a : a quality or trait belonging and especially peculiar to an
individual or thing
b : an effect that an object has on another object or on the senses
c : VIRTUE 3
d : an attribute common to all members of a class
2 a : something owned or possessed; specifically : a piece of real estate
b : the exclusive right to possess, enjoy, and dispose of a thing : OWNERSHIP
c : something to which a person or business has a legal title
d : one (as a performer) under contract whose work is especially valuable
3 : an article or object used in a play or motion picture except painted
scenery and costumes
protocol
1 : an original draft, minute, or record of a document or transaction
2 a : a preliminary memorandum often formulated and signed by
diplomatic negotiators as a basis for a final convention
or treaty
b : the records or minutes of a diplomatic conference or congress
that show officially the agreements arrived at by the negotiators
3 a : a code prescribing strict adherence to correct etiquette and
precedence (as in diplomatic exchange and in the military services)
b : a set of conventions governing the treatment and especially the
formatting of data in an electronic communications system
4 : a detailed plan of a scientific or medical experiment, treatment,
or procedure
purpose
1 a : something set up as an object or end to be attained : INTENTION
b : RESOLUTION, DETERMINATION
2 : a subject under discussion or an action in course of execution
quality
1 a : peculiar and essential character : NATURE
b : an inherent feature : PROPERTY
c : CAPACITY, ROLE
4 a : a distinguishing attribute : CHARACTERISTIC
b archaic : an acquired skill : ACCOMPLISHMENT
5 : the character in a logical proposition of being affirmative or negative
6 : vividness of hue
8 : the attribute of an elementary sensation that makes it fundamentally
unlike any other sensation
queue
2 : a waiting line especially of persons or vehicles
3 a : a sequence of messages or jobs held in auxiliary storage awaiting
transmission or processing
b : a data structure that consists of a list of records such that
records are added at one end and removed from the other
rational
1 a : having reason or understanding
b : relating to, based on, or agreeable to reason : REASONABLE
real
1 : of or relating to fixed, permanent, or immovable things
(as lands or tenements)
2 a : not artificial, fraudulent, illusory, or apparent : GENUINE
;
also : being precisely what the name implies
b (1) : occurring in fact
(2) : of or relating to practical or everyday concerns or activities
(3) : existing as a physical entity and having properties that
deviate from an ideal, law, or standard
-- compare IDEAL 3b
c : having objective independent existence
d : FUNDAMENTAL, ESSENTIAL
e (1) : belonging to or having elements or components that belong to
the set of real numbers
(2) : concerned with or containing real numbers
(3) : REAL-VALUED
f : measured by purchasing power
g : COMPLETE, UTTER
3 of a particle : capable of being detected -- compare VIRTUAL 3
reality
1 : the quality or state of being real
2 a (1) : a real event, entity, or state of affairs
(2) : the totality of real things and events
b : something that is neither derivative nor dependent but exists
necessarily
reason
1 a : a statement offered in explanation or justification
b : a rational ground or motive
c : a sufficient ground of explanation or of logical defense;
especially : something (as a principle or law) that supports a
conclusion or explains a fact
d : the thing that makes some fact intelligible : CAUSE
2 a (1) : the power of comprehending, inferring, or thinking especially
in orderly rational ways : INTELLIGENCE
(2) : proper exercise of the mind
(3) : SANITY b : the sum of the intellectual powers
3 archaic : treatment that affords satisfaction
reasonable
1 a : being in accordance with reason
b : not extreme or excessive
c : MODERATE, FAIR
d : INEXPENSIVE
2 a : having the faculty of reason
b : possessing sound judgment
relate
transitive senses
1 : to give an account of : TELL
2 : to show or establish logical or causal connection between
intransitive senses
1 : to apply or take effect retroactively
2 : to have relationship or connection
3 : to have or establish a relationship : INTERACT
4 : to respond especially favorably
relationship
1 : the state of being related or interrelated
2 : the relation connecting or binding participants in a
relationship:
as a : KINSHIP b : a specific instance or type of kinship
3 a : a state of affairs existing between those having relations
or dealings
b : a romantic or passionate attachment
robot
1 a : a machine that looks like a human being and performs various
complex acts (as walking or talking) of a human being;
also : a similar but fictional machine whose lack of capacity
for human emotions is often emphasized
b : an efficient insensitive person who functions automatically
2 : a device that automatically performs complicated often
repetitive tasks
3 : a mechanism guided by automatic controls
scheme
1 a archaic (1) : a mathematical or astronomical diagram
(2) : a representation of the astrological aspects of the
planets at a particular time
b : a graphic sketch or outline
2 : a concise statement or table : EPITOME
3 : a plan or program of action; especially : a crafty or secret one
4 : a systematic or organized framework : DESIGN
series
1 a : a number of things or events of the same class coming one after
another in spatial or temporal succession
b : a set of regularly presented television programs each of which
is complete in itself
2 : the indicated sum of a usually infinite sequence of numbers
3 a : the coins or currency of a particular country and period
b : a group of postage stamps in different denominations
4 : a succession of volumes or issues published with related subjects
or authors, similar format and price, or continuous numbering
5 : a division of rock formations that is smaller than a system and
comprises rocks deposited during an epoch
6 : a group of chemical compounds related in composition and structure
7 : an arrangement of the parts of or elements in an electric circuit
whereby the whole current passes through each part or element
without branching -- compare PARALLEL
8 : a set of vowels connected by ablaut (as i, a, u in ring, rang, rung)
9 : a number of games (as of baseball) played usually on consecutive
days between two teams
10 : a group of successive coordinate sentence elements joined together
11 : SOIL SERIES
12 : three consecutive games in bowling
server
1 : one that serves food or drink
2 : the player who serves (as in tennis)
3 : something used in serving food or drink
4 : one that serves legal processes upon another
5 : the celebrant's assistant at low mass
6 : a computer in a network that is used to provide services (as access
to files or shared peripherals or the routing of electronic mail)
to other computers in the network
set
1 a : the act or action of setting b : the condition of being set
2 : a number of things of the same kind that belong or are used together
3 a : mental inclination, tendency, or habit : BENT b : a state of psychological preparedness usually of limited duration for action in response to an anticipated stimulus or situation
4 : direction of flow
5 : form or carriage of the body or of its parts
6 : the manner of fitting or of being placed or suspended
7 : amount of deflection from a straight line
8 : permanent change of form (as of metal) due to repeated or excessive stress
9 : the act or result of arranging hair by curling or waving
10 also sett /'set/ a : a young plant or rooted cutting ready for transplanting b : a small bulb, corm, or tuber or a piece of tuber used for propagation
11 or sett : the burrow of a badger
12 : the width of the body of a piece of type
13 : an artificial setting for a scene of a theatrical or film production
14 also sett : a rectangular paving stone of sandstone or granite
15 : a division of a tennis match won by the side that wins at least six games beating the opponent by two games or by winning a tiebreaker
16 : a collection of books or periodicals forming a unit
17 : a clutch of eggs
18 : the basic formation in a country-dance or square dance
19 : a session of music (as jazz or dance music) usually followed by an intermission; also : the music played at one session
20 : a group of persons associated by common interests
21 : a collection of elements and especially mathematical ones (as numbers or points) -- called also class
22 : an apparatus of electronic components assembled so as to function as a unit
23 : a usually offensive formation in football or basketball
24 : a group of a specific number of repetitions of a particular exercise
shrewd
1 archaic : MISCHIEVOUS
2 obsolete : ABUSIVE, SHREWISH
3 obsolete : OMINOUS, DANGEROUS
4 a : SEVERE, HARD
b : SHARP, PIERCING
5 a : marked by clever discerning awareness and hardheaded acumen
b : given to wily and artful ways or dealing
skill
2 a : the ability to use one's knowledge effectively and readily
in execution or performance
b : dexterity or coordination especially in the execution of
learned physical tasks
3 : a learned power of doing something competently : a developed
aptitude or ability
skillful
1 : possessed of or displaying skill : EXPERT
2 : accomplished with skill
sociable
1 : inclined by nature to companionship with others of the same
species : SOCIAL
2 a : inclined to seek or enjoy companionship
b : marked by or conducive to friendliness or pleasant social
relations
social
1 : involving allies or confederates
2 a : marked by or passed in pleasant companionship with one's friends
or associates
b : SOCIABLE
c : of, relating to, or designed for sociability
3 : of or relating to human society, the interaction of the individual
and the group, or the welfare of human beings as members of society
4 a : tending to form cooperative and interdependent relationships with
others of one's kind : GREGARIOUS
b : living and breeding in more or less organized communities
c of a plant : tending to grow in groups or masses so as to form a
pure stand
5 a : of, relating to, or based on rank or status in a particular
society
b : of, relating to, or characteristic of the upper classes
c : FORMAL
software
something used or associated with and usually contrasted with hardware:
as a : the entire set of programs, procedures, and related documentation
associated with a system and especially a computer system;
specifically : computer programs
b : materials for use with audiovisual equipment
strategy
1 a (1) : the science and art of employing the political, economic,
psychological, and military forces of a nation or group of
nations to afford the maximum support to adopted policies
in peace or war
(2) : the science and art of military command exercised to meet
the enemy in combat under advantageous conditions
b : a variety of or instance of the use of strategy
2 a : a careful plan or method : a clever stratagem
b : the art of devising or employing plans or stratagems toward a goal
3 : an adaptation or complex of adaptations (as of behavior, metabolism,
or structure) that serves or appears to serve an important function
in achieving evolutionary success
synthetic
1 : relating to or involving synthesis : not analytic
2 : attributing to a subject something determined by observation rather
than analysis of the nature of the subject and not resulting in
self-contradiction if negated -- compare ANALYTIC
3 : characterized by frequent and systematic use of inflected forms to
express grammatical relationships
4 a (1) : of, relating to, or produced by chemical or biochemical
synthesis; especially : produced artificially
(2) : of or relating to a synfuel
b : devised, arranged, or fabricated for special situations to
imitate or replace usual realities
c : FACTITIOUS, BOGUS
system
1 : a regularly interacting or interdependent group of items forming a
unified whole :
as a (1) : a group of interacting bodies under the influence of
related forces
(2) : an assemblage of substances that is in or tends to
equilibrium
b (1) : a group of body organs that together perform one or
more vital functions
(2) : the body considered as a functional unit
c : a group of related natural objects or forces
d : a group of devices or artificial objects or an organization
forming a network especially for distributing something or
serving a common purpose
e : a major division of rocks usually larger than a series and
including all formed during a period or era
f : a form of social, economic, or political organization or
practice
2 : an organized set of doctrines, ideas, or principles usually intended
to explain the arrangement or working of a systematic whole
3 a : an organized or established procedure
b : a manner of classifying, symbolizing, or schematizing
4 : harmonious arrangement or pattern : ORDER
5 : an organized society or social situation regarded as stultifying :
ESTABLISHMENT 2 -- usually used with the
systematics
1 : the science of classification
2 a : a system of classification
b : the classification and study of organisms with regard to their natural
relationships : TAXONOMY
taxonomy
1 : the study of the general principles of scientific classification : SYSTEMATICS
2 : CLASSIFICATION; especially : orderly classification of plants and animals
according to their presumed natural relationships
term
4 a : a word or expression that has a precise meaning in some uses or is
peculiar to a science, art, profession, or subject
b plural : expression of a specified kind
terminology
1 : the technical or special terms used in a business, art, science, or special subject
2 : nomenclature as a field of study
trait
1 a : a stroke of or as if of a pencil
b : TOUCH, TRACE
2 a : a distinguishing quality (as of personal character) : PECULIARITY
b : an inherited characteristic
type
1 a : a person or thing (as in the Old Testament) believed to
foreshadow another (as in the New Testament)
b : one having qualities of a higher category : MODEL
c : a lower taxonomic category selected as a standard of
reference for a higher category;
also : a specimen or series of specimens on which a taxonomic
species or subspecies is actually based
2 : a distinctive mark or sign
4 a : qualities common to a number of individuals that distinguish
them as an identifiable class:
as (1) : the morphological, physiological, or ecological characters
by which relationship between organisms may be recognized
(2) : the form common to all instances of a linguistic element
b : a typical and often superior specimen
c : a member of an indicated class or variety of people
d : a particular kind, class, or group
e : something distinguishable as a variety : SORT
understand
transitive senses
1 a : to grasp the meaning of
b : to grasp the reasonableness of
c : to have thorough or technical acquaintance with or expertness
in the practice of
d : to be thoroughly familiar with the character and propensities
of
2 : to accept as a fact or truth or regard as plausible without utter
certainty
3 : to interpret in one of a number of possible ways
4 : to supply in thought as though expressed <"to be married" is commonly understood after the word engaged>
intransitive senses
1 : to have understanding : have the power of comprehension
2 : to achieve a grasp of the nature, significance, or explanation
of something
3 : to believe or infer something to be the case
4 : to show a sympathetic or tolerant attitude toward something
urbane
notably polite or finished in manner : POLISHED
urbanity
1 : the quality or state of being urbane
2 plural : urbane acts or conduct
virtual reality
an artificial environment which is experienced through sensory stimuli
(as sights and sounds) provided by a computer and in which one's
actions partially determine what happens in the environment
vocabulary
1 : a list or collection of words or of words and phrases usually
alphabetically arranged and explained or defined : LEXICON
2 a : a sum or stock of words employed by a language, group,
individual, or work or in a field of knowledge
b : a list or collection of terms or codes available for use
(as in an indexing system)
3 : a supply of expressive techniques or devices (as of an art form)
word
1 a : something that is said
b plural (1) : TALK, DISCOURSE
(2) : the text of a vocal musical composition
c : a brief remark or conversation
2 a (1) : a speech sound or series of speech sounds that symbolizes and
communicates a meaning without being divisible into smaller
units capable of independent use
(2) : the entire set of linguistic forms produced by combining a
single base with various inflectional elements without change
in the part of speech elements
b (1) : a written or printed character or combination of characters
representing a spoken word
-- sometimes used with the first letter of a real or
pretended taboo word prefixed often as a humorous euphemism
(2) : any segment of written or printed discourse ordinarily
appearing between spaces or between a space and a
punctuation mark
c : a number of bytes processed as a unit and conveying a quantum
of information in communication and computer work
3 : ORDER, COMMAND
4 often capitalized
a : LOGOS
b : GOSPEL 1a
c : the expressed or manifested mind and will of God
5 a : NEWS, INFORMATION
b : RUMOR
6 : the act of speaking or of making verbal communication
7 : SAYING, PROVERB
8 : PROMISE, DECLARATION
9 : a quarrelsome utterance or conversation -- usually used in plural
10 : a verbal signal : PASSWORD
world
1 a : the earthly state of human existence
b : life after death -- used with a qualifier
2 : the earth with its inhabitants and all things upon it
3 : individual course of life : CAREER
4 : the inhabitants of the earth : the human race
5 a : the concerns of the earth and its affairs as distinguished
from heaven and the life to come b : secular affairs
6 : the system of created things : UNIVERSE
7 a : a division or generation of the inhabitants of the earth
distinguished by living together at the same place or at
the same time
b : a distinctive class of persons or their sphere of interest
8 : human society
9 : a part or section of the earth that is a separate independent unit
10 : the sphere or scene of one's life and action
11 : an indefinite multitude or a great quantity or distance
12 : the whole body of living persons : PUBLIC
13 : KINGDOM 5
14 : a celestial body (as a planet)
---------
kingdom
5 a : one of the three primary divisions into which natural objects are commonly
classified -- compare ANIMAL KINGDOM, MINERAL KINGDOM, PLANT KINGDOM
b : a major category (as Plantae or Protista) in biological taxonomy that ranks
above the phylum and is the highest and most encompassing group
division
10 : a group of organisms forming part of a larger group;
specifically : a primary category of the plant kingdom
phylum
1 a : a direct line of descent within a group
b : a group that constitutes or has the unity of a phylum;
especially : one of the usually primary divisions of the animal kingdom
class
3 : a group, set, or kind sharing common attributes: as
a : a major category in biological taxonomy ranking above the order
and below the phylum or division
order
3 b : a class of persons or things grouped according to quality, value, or natural
characteristics:
as (1) : a category of taxonomic classification ranking above the family and
below the class
family
6 a : a group of related plants or animals forming a category ranking above a genus
and below an order and usually comprising several to many genera
genus
1 : a class, kind, or group marked by common characteristics or by one common
characteristic;
specifically : a category of biological classification ranking between the
family and the species, comprising structurally or phylogenetically related
species or an isolated species exhibiting unusual differentiation, and being
designated by a Latin or latinized capitalized singular noun
2 : a class of objects divided into several subordinate species
subgenus
a category in biological classification ranking below a genus and above a species
species
1 a : KIND, SORT
b : a class of individuals having common attributes and designated by a common name;
specifically : a logical division of a genus or more comprehensive class
c : the human race : human beings -- often used with the
d (1) : a category of biological classification ranking immediately below the genus
or subgenus, comprising related organisms or populations potentially capable
of interbreeding, and being designated by a binomial that consists of the
name of a genus followed by a Latin or latinized uncapitalized noun or
adjective agreeing grammatically with the genus name
(2) : an individual or kind belonging to a biological species
e : a particular kind of atomic nucleus, atom, molecule, or ion
organism
1 : a complex structure of interdependent and subordinate elements
whose relations and properties are largely determined by their
function in the whole
2 : an individual constituted to carry on the activities of life by
means of organs separate in function but mutually dependent : a living being
population
1 a : the whole number of people or inhabitants in a country or region
b : the total of individuals occupying an area or making up a whole
c : the total of particles at a particular energy level -- used
especially of atoms in a laser
2 : the act or process of populating
3 a : a body of persons or individuals having a quality or characteristic
in common
b (1) : the organisms inhabiting a particular locality
(2) : a group of interbreeding organisms that represents the level of
organization at which speciation begins
4 : a group of individual persons, objects, or items from which samples are
taken for statistical measurement
speciation
the process of biological species formation
breed
1 : to produce (offspring) by hatching or gestation
2 a : BEGET 1
b : PRODUCE, ENGENDER
3 : to propagate (plants or animals) sexually and usually under controlled
conditions
4 a : BRING UP, NURTURE
b : to inculcate by training
5 a : 4MATE 3 b : to mate with : INSEMINATE c : IMPREGNATE 2
6 : to produce (a fissionable element) by bombarding a nonfissionable element
with neutrons from a radioactive element
intransitive senses
1 a : to produce offspring by sexual union
b : COPULATE, MATE
2 : to propagate animals or plants
Please contact us with any questions or comments.
Updated: November 04, 2005 05:08:09 PM -0500
Copyright © 2001 John W. Krupansky d/b/a Base Technology