I. ̷ ̷ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌlerē, -ri noun
( -es )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle French vocabulaire, probably from Medieval Latin vocabularium, from neuter of vocabularius vocabular, from Latin vocabulum designation, name + -arius -ary
1. : a list or collection of words or of words and phrases usually alphabetically arranged and explained or defined ; specifically : a list in a foreign language textbook of the words and phrases taught or used
study the vocabulary at the end of each chapter
: lexicon
2. : a sum or stock of words employed by a language, group, individual, or work, or in relation to a subject : scope of language
Latin contributions to the vocabulary of English
words peculiar to the educationists' vocabulary
estimates his English speaking vocabulary at from 25,000 to 30,000 words — Current Biography
the vocabulary of nostalgia
color vocabularies we acquire in the course of … experiences with colored objects — F.A.Geldard
3. : a set or list of nonverbal symbols (as shorthand signs, sign language positions, marine alphabet flag signals)
4. : a set of expressive forms used in an art : the range of elements composing a formal medium of artistic creation
the Georgian and Federal styles … both used the classical vocabulary of columns, pilasters, pediments — H.S.Morrison
the complex rhythms and brilliant effects … are the natural means of a man who has immense vitality and an enormous musical vocabulary — New Yorker
specifically : the code of set movements that form the basis of expression for a dance composer and his art product
a rigid dance vocabulary based on five fundamental positions — Newsweek
a considerable difference between ballet, which has a set vocabulary of movements, and modern dance, which … finds its pattern as it goes along — Philip Hamburger
5. : a range of means by which one can apprehend experiences or express ideas or feelings
dancing is but a part of her vocabulary of expression; by face, gesture, and exquisite movement, she is, by turn, the playful child, the joyful maiden, and the awakened woman — Newsweek
II. noun
: a list or collection of terms or codes available for use (as in an indexing system)