Grade 3 Word Definitions
Learn the meanings, pronunciations, and usage examples for 50 spelling words.
✓ 50 of 50 words have complete definitions
across
/əˈkrɔs/prepositioneasyDefinition:
From one side to the other side of something.
Example:
“We walked across the street to get to the park.”
against
/əˈɡɛnst/prepositionmediumDefinition:
In opposition to or in contact with something.
Example:
“The ladder was leaning against the wall.”
answer
/ˈænsər/nouneasyDefinition:
A response to a question or solution to a problem.
Example:
“I raised my hand to give the answer to the math problem.”
appear
/əˈpɪr/verbmediumDefinition:
To become visible or come into sight.
Example:
“The sun will appear from behind the clouds soon.”
begin
/bɪˈɡɪn/verbeasyDefinition:
To start doing something or to commence.
Example:
“The concert will begin at seven o'clock.”
better
/ˈbɛtər/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Of a higher quality or more suitable than another.
Example:
“This book is better than the one I read last week.”
birds
/bɜrdz/nouneasyDefinition:
Plural of bird; warm-blooded animals with feathers and wings.
Example:
“Many birds fly south for the winter.”
black
/blæk/adjectiveeasyDefinition:
Of the darkest color, like the night sky.
Example:
“The black cat walked across the yard.”
blue
/bluː/adjectiveeasyDefinition:
Of a color like the sky or the ocean.
Example:
“The blue ocean sparkled in the sunshine.”
boat
/boʊt/nouneasyDefinition:
A small vessel for traveling on water.
Example:
“We went fishing in a small boat on the lake.”
body
/ˈbɑdi/nouneasyDefinition:
The physical structure of a person or animal.
Example:
“Exercise keeps your body healthy and strong.”
book
/bʊk/nouneasyDefinition:
A set of written or printed pages bound together.
Example:
“I love reading adventure books before bedtime.”
box
/bɑks/nouneasyDefinition:
A container with a flat base and sides, typically square or rectangular.
Example:
“We packed our toys in a large cardboard box.”
boy
/bɔɪ/nouneasyDefinition:
A male child or young man.
Example:
“The boy played soccer with his friends after school.”
bring
/brɪŋ/verbeasyDefinition:
To carry or take something to a place or person.
Example:
“Please bring your homework to class tomorrow.”
brought
/brɔt/verbmediumDefinition:
Past tense of bring; carried or took something to a place.
Example:
“I brought my favorite book to share with the class.”
build
/bɪld/verbmediumDefinition:
To construct or make something by putting parts together.
Example:
“We will build a sandcastle at the beach.”
built
/bɪlt/verbmediumDefinition:
Past tense of build; constructed or made something.
Example:
“The workers built a new playground in our neighborhood.”
busy
/ˈbɪzi/adjectiveeasyDefinition:
Having a lot to do; actively engaged in work or activities.
Example:
“Mom is busy cooking dinner for our family.”
certain
/ˈsɜrtən/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Sure or definite; without any doubt.
Example:
“I am certain that tomorrow is a school day.”
Showing 20 of 50 words
Understanding Grade 3 Vocabulary
Learning Objectives
- Master 50 age-appropriate vocabulary words for Grade 3
- Understand word meanings, pronunciation, and proper usage in context
- Improve spelling accuracy through comprehension and pattern recognition
- Develop confidence in written and verbal communication skills
- Build a strong foundation for advanced vocabulary in higher grades
Word Difficulty Breakdown
- Easy Words (20): Common, everyday vocabulary with simple spelling patterns ideal for beginners
- Medium Words (20): Moderately challenging words that follow standard spelling rules and common usage
- Challenging Words (10): Advanced vocabulary with complex spelling patterns for students ready for more difficulty
How to Use These Definitions
- Read the definition carefully to understand the word's meaning and context
- Study the part of speech to learn how the word functions in sentences
- Review example sentences to see the word used in real-world situations
- Practice spelling the word while thinking about its meaning for better retention
- Use the word in your own original sentences to reinforce learning and comprehension
- Explore synonyms and antonyms to build vocabulary connections and word relationships
Why Learn Word Definitions?
Understanding word meanings enhances spelling skills and vocabulary development.
Improved Comprehension
Knowing what words mean helps you understand what you read and hear. This deeper comprehension improves overall language skills.
Better Spelling
Understanding a word's meaning and context makes it easier to remember its spelling, especially for words with similar sounds but different meanings.
Enhanced Writing
A rich vocabulary allows you to express your ideas more precisely and effectively in writing, making your communication more powerful.
Explore More Resources
Discover additional tools to help with spelling practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Grade 3 spelling bee words?
Grade 3 spelling bee words are carefully selected vocabulary terms appropriate for students aged 8-9 years. Our comprehensive list includes 50 words categorized by difficulty level (easy, medium, and challenging) to support progressive learning and spelling bee preparation.
How can word definitions help with spelling?
Understanding a word's definition provides crucial context that makes spelling more intuitive and memorable. When students know what a word means and how it's used in sentences, they're more likely to remember its correct spelling. Definitions also help distinguish between homophones (words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings), reducing common spelling errors.
Are these Grade 3 words suitable for spelling bee competitions?
Yes! Our Grade 3 word list is specifically designed to align with common spelling bee competition standards and classroom curriculum. The words are age-appropriate, cover the vocabulary range typically expected at this grade level, and include pronunciation guides. Regular practice with these 50 words will help students prepare for classroom spelling tests, school spelling bees, and regional competitions.
What information is included with each word definition?
Each word entry includes: (1) Phonetic pronunciation in IPA format to help with correct pronunciation, (2) Part of speech (noun, verb, adjective, etc.), (3) Clear, educational definition appropriate for the grade level, (4) Example sentence showing the word in real-world context, (5) Synonyms for vocabulary expansion, and (6) Antonyms where applicable. This comprehensive approach supports both spelling and vocabulary development.
How should students use these word definitions for study?
For effective studying, students should: (1) Read the definition to understand the word's meaning, (2) Study the pronunciation guide and practice saying the word aloud, (3) Review the example sentence to see how it's used in context, (4) Cover the word and try to spell it from memory, (5) Use the word in their own original sentences, and (6) Explore the synonyms to build vocabulary connections. Regular practice sessions of 10-15 minutes are more effective than long, infrequent study periods.
What makes Grade 3 vocabulary different from other grade levels?
Grade 3 vocabulary is specifically calibrated for the cognitive and linguistic development of 8-9-year-old students. The words introduce age-appropriate concepts, spelling patterns, and complexity levels that build upon previous grades while preparing students for the next level. Our difficulty categorization (easy, medium, challenging) allows students to progress at their own pace within the grade level.