100 Compound Words PDF

100 Compound Words + Examples What are compound words? Compound words are when two or more words come together, making a new word that functions as a single word. They can be: nouns: ice cream, mailbox, merry-go-round verbs: babysit, take off, double-check adjectives: long-term, home...

100 Compound Words + Examples What are compound words? Compound words are when two or more words come together, making a new word that functions as a single word. They can be: nouns: ice cream, mailbox, merry-go-round verbs: babysit, take off, double-check adjectives: long-term, homemade, bulletproof adverbs: singlehandedly, self-consciously prepositions: inside, without As you can see from those examples of compound words, there are three types: "Open" compound words (with a space between them) police officer, hot dog, high school "Closed" compound words (without a space between them) bedroom, popcorn, firefighter Hyphenated compound words well-dressed, self-esteem, mother-in-law Let's learn 100 compound words in English, with example sentences! This list of compound words is divided into the three types (open, closed, and hyphenated compound words) and each type is divided into "easier" compound words and "more advanced" compound words. Open compound words: Easier BLACK EYE Definition: A bruise or discoloration around the eye, typically caused by an impact to the area. Example: After accidentally walking into a door, he had a black eye that made him look like he had been in a fight. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 BUS STOP Definition: A place where buses pick up and drop off passengers. Example: I waited at the bus stop for the downtown bus to arrive so I could get to work. CELL PHONE Definition: A portable electronic device used for making calls, sending messages, and accessing various applications and the internet. Example: She used her cell phone to take pictures and post them on social media during the concert. COFFEE SHOP Definition: A place where coffee and various drinks, as well as snacks and desserts, are served, often providing a cozy atmosphere for relaxing and socializing. Example: The coffee shop on the corner is my favorite place to work and enjoy a latte. COTTON BALL Definition: A small ball made of soft, absorbent cotton, typically used for cleaning, applying cosmetics, or medicinal purposes. Example: The nurse used a cotton ball to apply antiseptic to the small wound before placing a bandage on it. FIRST AID Definition: Immediate and basic medical care given for an injury or sudden illness, until it's possible to get professional medical assistance. Example: The hiker used his first aid kit to treat a minor cut he got while on the trail. FRYING PAN Definition: A flat, shallow cooking tool with a handle, typically used for frying, sautéing, or searing food. Example: She heated the oil in the frying pan before adding the vegetables for stir-frying. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 GROCERY STORE Definition: A store that sells various food and household products. Example: I need to pick up some ingredients at the local grocery store before preparing dinner. HIGH SCHOOL Definition: A school typically attended by students aged 14 to 18, usually before college or university. Example: She graduated from high school last year and is now preparing to attend university. ICE SKATE Definition: A boot with a blade, designed for gliding over ice surfaces, for fun or competition. Example: During the winter, families often rent ice skates and enjoy some outdoor skating on the frozen lake. LAWN MOWER Definition: A mechanical device used for cutting and maintaining the grass in a garden or yard. Example: The grass is getting long, so I'll get the lawn mower and start cutting it. LIVING ROOM Definition: A room in a house or apartment used for everyday relaxation and social activities, usually containing sofas, chairs, and a television. Example: The living room is where the family gathers to watch movies and play board games. POLICE OFFICER Definition: A law enforcement professional responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, and ensuring the safety and security of the community. Example: The police officer arrived at the scene of the accident to direct traffic and provide assistance to the injured. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 POST OFFICE Definition: A place providing postal services, including sending and receiving mail and packages. Example: I need to stop by the post office to mail a package and buy some stamps. ROLLER COASTER Definition: A ride consisting of a series of cars or carriages that travel along a curving, elevated track with sudden drops, loops, and turns for an exciting experience. Example: The roller coaster at the theme park is known for its thrilling twists and turns. RUBBER BAND Definition: A stretchable ring made of rubber or elastic material, often used to hold items together or provide tension. Example: She used a rubber band to hold the cards together so they wouldn't scatter. SALAD DRESSING Definition: A liquid sauce put on salads to give more flavor, often consisting of various ingredients like oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices. Example: He drizzled balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing over the fresh greens. SCIENCE FICTION Definition: A genre of literature, film, or art that explores imaginative and speculative concepts, often involving futuristic technology, space travel, and otherworldly phenomena. Example: The novel is a classic work of science fiction, envisioning a future where humans colonize distant planets. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 SERVING SPOON Definition: A large spoon with a broad, deep bowl used for serving food, especially for transferring portions from a serving dish to individual plates. Example: She used a serving spoon to dish out the mashed potatoes during dinner. Open compound words: More Advanced BLOOD PRESSURE Definition: The force of blood against the walls of the arteries, used as an indicator of heart health. Example: The doctor checks your blood pressure as part of a routine checkup. AMUSEMENT PARK Definition: A place with various rides, attractions, and games designed to provide entertainment and excitement. Example: Tickets to the amusement park are more expensive on the weekends. CASE STUDY Definition: A detailed analysis of a particular subject, situation, or individual to gain insights, draw conclusions, or develop an understanding of the topic. Example: At the meeting, I will present a case study on how our product reduced industrial waste by 68% at one factory. COMMON SENSE Definition: Practical and sound judgment based on rationality and a shared understanding of what is generally considered reasonable. Example: Using common sense, she decided to bring an umbrella when the weather forecast predicted rain. COTTON CANDY Definition: A sweet treat made by heating and liquefying sugar, then spinning it EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024  through tiny holes to create fine threads, which are collected onto a cone or stick. Example: Children at the fair enjoyed the pink and blue cotton candy. CURTAIN ROD Definition: A metal or wooden rod used to hang curtains above windows and doors. Example: She installed a decorative curtain rod in the living room to complement the new window curtains. FLASH FLOOD Definition: When an area is suddenly covered by a lot of water, often caused by heavy rainfall or a sudden release of water. Example: The area experienced a flash flood after a severe thunderstorm, causing damage to homes and roads. FOOD POISONING Definition: Sickness caused by consuming contaminated or spoiled food, often characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. Example: They got food poisoning after eating meat from a street cart that had been sitting in the sun all morning. FOSTER PARENTS Definition: Adults who provide temporary care, support, and a home for children who cannot be with their biological parents due to various family circumstances or crises. Example: The foster parents cared for the child until a permanent home could be found. GOLDEN RETRIEVER Definition: A popular breed of dog known for its friendly and gentle temperament, as well as its beautiful golden-colored fur. Example: The golden retriever is a great family pet because it is friendly and loyal. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 HIGH CHAIR Definition: A special chair designed for babies to sit in while eating, typically equipped with a seatbelt and a tray for holding food. Example: They put their baby in the high chair and fed him applesauce. JELLY BEAN Definition: A small, bean-shaped candy made from sugar or gelatin and flavored with various sweet and fruity tastes. Example: My daughter got a bag full of jelly beans to take home from the birthday party. JUMPING JACKS Definition: A physical exercise in which a person jumps and spreads their legs apart while bringing their arms together overhead, then jumps their legs back together and brings their arms down. Example: The fitness trainer included jumping jacks in the warm-up routine to get the participants' heart rates up. LIFE VEST/JACKET Definition: A floating jacket you wear for safety in water, making sure you stay on the surface of the water and preventing drowning in emergencies. Example: When they went canoeing on the lake, they made sure everyone wore a life vest for safety. LIGHT BULB Definition: A device that produces light by passing an electric current through a filament or gas, typically used for lighting homes and buildings. Example: She changed the burnt-out light bulb in the lamp to brighten up the room. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 MOUNTAIN BIKE Definition: A type of bicycle specifically designed for riding on trails outside of roads/sidewalks, with features like sturdy frames and knobby tires. Example: He enjoys riding his mountain bike in the nearby forest. REAL ESTATE Definition: Property or land, including buildings and natural resources, that can be bought, sold, or rented, often used for residential, commercial, or investment purposes. Example: The real estate market in the city is booming, with lots of new housing developments being built. STREET SMARTS Definition: Practical knowledge and awareness about navigating urban or everyday situations, often acquired through personal experience and observation. Example: He got his street smarts thanks to growing up in a big city and always needing to be alert. SWEET TOOTH Definition: A strong preference or craving for sweet foods and sugary treats. Example: She couldn't resist indulging her sweet tooth with a piece of chocolate cake after dinner. Closed compound words: Easier BABYSIT Definition: To temporarily care for and supervise children while their parents or guardians are out of the house. Example: She agreed to babysit her neighbor's kids for the evening while they attended a special event. BACKGROUND Definition: The setting, environment, or circumstances that form the context for a particular event, situation, or subject. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024  Example: There's a colorful bird in the background of this photo. CLASSMATE Definition: A person who is in the same class or course of study as another student. Example: She became close friends with her classmate during their time at university. CUPCAKE Definition: A small cake, typically baked in a muffin or cupcake tin, often frosted and decorated with various toppings or designs. Example: She baked two dozen cupcakes for her daughter's birthday party. EYEBROW Definition: The line of hair above the eye that helps protect it from sweat and dirt; often used to create facial expressions. Example: She raised her eyebrows in surprise when she heard the unexpected news. GRANDMOTHER Definition: The female parent of one's parent, often a source of love, wisdom, and familial connection. Example: My grandmother used to tell us stories about her childhood on a farm in the 1930s. KEYBOARD Definition: A set of keys, typically arranged in a specific layout, used for inputting text and commands into a computer or other electronic device. Example: One feature I love about my laptop is that the keyboard can light up at night. LIPSTICK Definition: A cosmetic product applied to the lips to add color, often in the form of a stick or tube. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024  Example: She chose a red lipstick shade to match her evening gown. NEWBORN Definition: A recently born baby, typically within the first few weeks of life. Example: The newborn slept peacefully in the crib, wrapped in a soft blanket. PLAYGROUND Definition: An outdoor area designed for children to play, often with swings, slides, and climbing structures. Example: Make sure to put on sunscreen before you take the kids to the playground. PONYTAIL Definition: A hairstyle in which the hair is gathered and secured at the back of the head or neck using a band or tie. Example: She pulled her hair into a high ponytail to keep it out of her face while exercising. RAINBOW Definition: A curve of colors that appears in the sky when sunlight shines through raindrops or other moisture in the atmosphere. Example: After the storm, we saw a bright rainbow. SAILBOAT Definition: A type of watercraft that is propelled by wind in its sails, used for recreational sailing or competitive racing. Example: They spent a relaxing afternoon on their sailboat in the lake. SIDEWALK Definition: A paved walkway or path at the side of a road, typically used by people walking. Example: She strolled along the tree-lined sidewalk, enjoying the pleasant weather. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 SKATEBOARD Definition: A flat board with four wheels that people stand to ride on, often used for performing tricks or transportation. Example: My teenage son wants a new skateboard for his birthday. SNOWBALL Definition: Snow pressed or rolled into a ball, often used in winter games or snowball fights. Example: The girl got in trouble after she threw a snowball at her teacher. SUITCASE Definition: A rectangular container with handles, used for carrying clothes and personal belongings during travel. Example: She packed a small suitcase and prepared for her weekend getaway. TEAMWORK Definition: The cooperative effort of a group of individuals working together to achieve a common goal or complete a task. Example: Caring for a patient with complex medical needs requires teamwork among the doctors, nurses, and specialists. TOOTHPICK Definition: A small, pointed stick, often made of wood or plastic, used for cleaning between teeth. Example: He grabbed a toothpick to remove bits of meat stuck between his teeth after dinner. WATERFALL Definition: A natural formation in which water flows or falls over a vertical or nearly vertical rock or cliff, often found in mountainous or hilly regions. Example: The hike led them to a magnificent waterfall, where they could hear the rushing water and feel the mist in the air. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 WATERMELON Definition: A large, juicy, and refreshing fruit with a hard green shell containing a sweet, pink or red interior and black seeds, often eaten in the summertime. Example: They enjoyed slices of cold watermelon at the family picnic. WHEELCHAIR Definition: A mobile chair with wheels, designed for individuals with limited mobility or physical disabilities to assist in moving around. Example: The hospital provided a wheelchair for the patient to help him get around while he recovered. Closed compound words: More Advanced BRAINSTORM Definition: When a group of people tries to generate creative ideas and solutions through free and open discussion. Example: The team met to brainstorm new marketing strategies for the upcoming product launch. AFTERMATH Definition: The period following a significant event, often marked by the consequences or results of that event. Example: In the aftermath of the storm, the community came together to clean up and repair the damage. BACKLOG Definition: A quantity of unfinished work, tasks, or orders that have accumulated and need to be completed. Example: The company had a backlog of customer orders due to a temporary shortage of supplies. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 CHOPSTICKS Definition: A pair of thin, long sticks, typically made of wood or other materials, used as eating utensils in many Asian cultures. Example: She used chopsticks to pick up the sushi and dip it in soy sauce. EYEWITNESS Definition: A person who has personally observed an event or situation and can provide direct information or testimony about it. Example: The eyewitness provided a detailed account of the accident to the police. FORESEE Definition: To anticipate or predict an event or outcome before it occurs based on available information or insight. Example: The financial advisor could foresee problems with cash flow if the business didn't cut their expenses soon. HARDSHIP Definition: A state of suffering, difficulty, or adversity, often caused by challenging circumstances or conditions. Example: Immigrants to this country often thrive despite the hardships they have faced. JACKPOT Definition: A large or substantial prize or reward, often associated with gambling, lotteries, or unexpected success. Example: The lucky ticket holder won the jackpot in the national lottery, becoming an instant millionaire. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 KEEPSAKE Definition: A cherished object or item that holds sentimental value and is kept as a reminder of a person, event, or period in one's life. Example: She treasured a small keepsake from her grandmother. LIMELIGHT Definition: Public focus or attention on a person, often due to their achievements, fame, or public prominence. Example: The popular band is enjoying its time in the limelight, with a multi-city tour planned for the summer. NOTEWORTHY Definition: Deserving special attention or consideration because of its quality, significance, or exceptional attributes. Example: The artist's latest painting was noteworthy for its intricate details and vibrant colors. OVERKILL Definition: An excessive or exaggerated application, effort, or approach that goes beyond what is necessary or reasonable. Example: Using three different security systems for a small apartment may be considered overkill. PACEMAKER Definition: A medical device implanted in the body to regulate and control the heartbeat, often used to treat irregular heart rhythms. Example: After his heart condition worsened, the patient received a pacemaker to ensure a steady heart rhythm. POTHOLE Definition: A deep, often irregularly shaped hole or depression in a road or pavement, typically caused by wear and tear or weather damage. Example: The city's road maintenance crew worked to repair the potholes that had formed after a harsh winter. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 STANDSTILL Definition: A complete stop in movement, activity, or progress, often due to external factors or obstacles. Example: The traffic jam brought all vehicles to a standstill, causing long delays for commuters. SUPERNATURAL Definition: Beyond the natural or scientific realm, involving phenomena or forces that cannot be explained by ordinary laws or principles. Example: In the movie, the strange incidents in the house turned out to have a supernatural cause. TATTLETALE Definition: A person, typically a child, who informs or reveals someone else's wrongdoing or secrets to authorities or others. Example: He was known as the classroom tattletale, always reporting things to the teacher. UNDERCURRENT Definition: A subtle or hidden force, feeling, or influence that operates beneath the surface, often affecting events or situations. Example: There was an undercurrent of tension in the room, despite the appearance of calm. UNDERESTIMATE Definition: To have a lower opinion of something or someone than is really the case. Example: They should not underestimate her capabilities; she is a highly skilled and dedicated employee. UPTIGHT Definition: Tense, anxious, or overly concerned with details, often resulting in a lack of relaxation or flexibility in one's behavior. Example: She appeared uptight and stressed about the upcoming presentation. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 WAYWARD Definition: Behaving recklessly, irresponsibly, or in a manner that deviates from accepted norms or expectations. Example: The wayward teenager often defied his parents' rules and found himself in trouble. Hyphenated compound words: Easier CARRY-ON Definition: Luggage or bags that are small and compact enough to be carried onto a plane and kept in the overhead compartment or under the seat. Example: She packed her essentials in a carry-on bag for her short business trip. EMPTY-HANDED Definition: To arrive or leave a place without acquiring or holding anything; to have nothing in one's hands. Example: He searched the store for the book he wanted but left empty- handed as it was out of stock. GET-TOGETHER Definition: A casual social gathering or meeting, often among friends or family members. Example: They planned a get-together at the park to celebrate their friend's birthday. GOOD-LOOKING Definition: Attractive in appearance, possessing pleasing physical features or an appealing demeanor. Example: She noticed a good-looking stranger across the room at the party. HIGH-SPEED Definition: Operating or moving very fast. Example: The high-speed train reached its destination in half the time of a regular train. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 LONG-LASTING Definition: Having the ability to endure or exist for an extended period of time without significant deterioration or wear. Example: The paint they used on the house is known for its long-lasting color. MIDDLE-AGED Definition: Referring to the period of life between early adulthood and old age, often characterized by individuals in their forties and fifties. Example: Many middle-aged people are at the peak of their career and can save money for retirement. MOTHER-IN-LAW Definition: The mother of one's husband or wife. Example: Fortunately, he has a good relationship with his mother-in-law. OLD-FASHIONED Definition: Reflecting the style, customs, or ideas of a past era; not in line with contemporary or modern trends. Example: He preferred an old-fashioned approach to writing letters, using pen and paper instead of email. SHORT-TERM Definition: Related to a brief or limited duration of time; not intended for the long run. Example: Their short-term goal is to complete the project within the next three months. UP-TO-DATE Definition: Current with the latest information, technology, or developments; not outdated. Example: We're bringing you the most up-to-date news from the Olympic games. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 WELL-BEING Definition: The state of being healthy, content, and happy, with one's physical, mental, and emotional needs met. Example: Yoga and meditation help improve your overall well-being by reducing stress. WELL-BEHAVED Definition: Characterized by good manners and appropriate conduct, often used to describe people or animals with courteous behavior. Example: The children were well-behaved during the formal dinner, impressing the guests with their politeness. WORLD-FAMOUS Definition: Known and recognized by people worldwide; achieving a high level of fame and recognition on a global scale. Example: The Eiffel Tower in Paris is a world-famous landmark and a symbol of France. Hyphenated compound words: More Advanced FAR-FETCHED Definition: Extremely unlikely or improbable, often referring to ideas or scenarios that seem too unrealistic to be true. Example: The conspiracy theory he shared with us seemed far-fetched and lacked credible evidence. HO-HUM Definition: Dull, boring, or unexciting; something that fails to elicit enthusiasm or interest. Example: The movie received mediocre reviews and was described as a ho- hum experience. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 HUSH-HUSH Definition: Kept secret or concealed from public knowledge or discussion; something done discreetly or quietly. Example: The company's upcoming product launch is still hush-hush, and details are closely guarded. KNOW-IT-ALL Definition: A person who behaves as if they have complete knowledge and expertise on all subjects, often displaying arrogance. Example: His know-it-all attitude often annoyed his coworkers during meetings. MIND-BLOWING Definition: Extremely impressive, astonishing, or causing a strong emotional or intellectual reaction. Example: The scientific discovery was truly mind-blowing and opened up new possibilities in the field. NITTY-GRITTY Definition: The specific and essential details or core aspects of a subject or situation, often involving practical or fundamental information. Example: Before making a decision, they needed to delve into the nitty- gritty of the financial data. OVER-THE-COUNTER Definition: Available for purchase or access directly from a store, pharmacy, or source without a prescription or formal authorization. Example: I take some over-the- counter painkillers to manage my headaches, I don't need a prescription. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 RUN-IN Definition: A brief, often unexpected encounter or confrontation with someone, often resulting in a minor dispute or disagreement. Example: He had a run-in with his neighbor over the property boundary, leading to a heated argument. RUNNER-UP Definition: The individual or team that finishes in second place in a competition or contest, just behind the winner. Example: She was proud to be the runner-up in the national spelling bee competition. SELF-CENTERED Definition: Focused on one's own needs, interests, or concerns, often without much consideration for the feelings or needs of others. Example: His self-centered behavior strained his relationships, as he rarely showed empathy for others. SHORT-TEMPERED Definition: Easily irritated or quick to anger, with a tendency to lose one's temper in response to minor provocations. Example: He apologized for his short- tempered response and explained that he was under a lot of stress. SINGLE-MINDED Definition: Having a strong and unwavering focus on a particular goal, purpose, or objective, often to the exclusion of other considerations. Example: She doesn't really have any hobbies; she's got a single- minded determination to focus on her career. SOUGHT-AFTER Definition: In high demand or desired by many; something that people actively seek or pursue. Example: The highly sought-after tickets to the singer's final concert were being sold for upwards of $2,000. EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024 STRONG-ARM Definition: To use physical force or aggressive methods to intimidate or control others; to apply pressure or coercion. Example: He doesn't really listen to the other side during negotiations, he just uses strong-arm tactics to get what he wants. TOSS-UP Definition: A situation in which it is uncertain which of two or more outcomes or choices will prevail; a decision that could go either way. Example: The final round of the competition was a toss-up, with both teams displaying exceptional skills. WELL-TO-DO Definition: Having a comfortable and affluent financial status, often associated with wealth and financial security. Example: The well-to-do couple enjoyed traveling to luxurious destinations and owning multiple properties. Now you know how to use 100 compound words in English! EspressoEnglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2024