Grade 5 Word Definitions
Learn the meanings, pronunciations, and usage examples for 50 spelling words.
✓ 50 of 50 words have complete definitions
abbreviate
/əˈbriviˌeɪt/verbmediumDefinition:
To shorten a word or phrase by omitting letters or using initials.
Example:
“We abbreviate 'Doctor' as 'Dr.' in written text.”
abdomen
/ˈæbdəmən/nounmediumDefinition:
The part of the body between the chest and pelvis; the belly.
Example:
“The doctor examined my abdomen during the checkup.”
abdominal
/æbˈdɑmɪnəl/adjectivechallengingDefinition:
Relating to the abdomen or belly area.
Example:
“Abdominal muscles help support your core and posture.”
abide
/əˈbaɪd/verbmediumDefinition:
To accept or follow a rule or decision, or to tolerate something.
Example:
“All students must abide by the school rules.”
ability
/əˈbɪləti/nouneasyDefinition:
The capacity or skill to do something.
Example:
“She has the ability to play three musical instruments.”
abnormal
/æbˈnɔrməl/adjectivechallengingDefinition:
Deviating from what is normal or usual; not typical.
Example:
“The scientist noticed abnormal behavior in the experiment.”
abolish
/əˈbɑlɪʃ/verbmediumDefinition:
To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution.
Example:
“Many countries worked to abolish slavery in the 1800s.”
abrupt
/əˈbrʌpt/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Sudden and unexpected; happening without warning.
Example:
“The abrupt change in weather caught everyone by surprise.”
absence
/ˈæbsəns/nouneasyDefinition:
The state of being away from a place or person.
Example:
“Your absence from class yesterday was noted by the teacher.”
absolute
/ˈæbsəˌlut/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Complete and total; not qualified or diminished in any way.
Example:
“The students gave their absolute best effort on the project.”
absorb
/əbˈsɔrb/verbeasyDefinition:
To take in or soak up liquid, energy, or information.
Example:
“A sponge can absorb a lot of water quickly.”
abstract
/ˈæbˌstrækt/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having physical form.
Example:
“Love and justice are abstract concepts that cannot be touched.”
absurd
/əbˈsɜrd/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Wildly unreasonable, illogical, or inappropriate; ridiculous.
Example:
“It would be absurd to wear a winter coat on a hot summer day.”
abundance
/əˈbʌndəns/nounmediumDefinition:
A very large quantity of something; plenty.
Example:
“The garden had an abundance of fresh vegetables this summer.”
abundant
/əˈbʌndənt/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful.
Example:
“Rain is abundant in tropical regions throughout the year.”
abuse
/əˈbjus/verbeasyDefinition:
To use something in a bad or harmful way, or to treat someone cruelly.
Example:
“It is wrong to abuse your privileges or hurt others.”
academic
/ˌækəˈdɛmɪk/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Relating to education and scholarship, especially in schools and universities.
Example:
“Good academic performance requires dedication and hard work.”
academy
/əˈkædəmi/nounmediumDefinition:
A school or institution for special training or education.
Example:
“She attends a performing arts academy to study dance.”
accelerate
/əkˈsɛləˌreɪt/verbmediumDefinition:
To increase in speed or rate; to move faster.
Example:
“The car began to accelerate as it entered the highway.”
accent
/ˈæksɛnt/nouneasyDefinition:
A distinctive way of pronouncing a language, or emphasis on a particular syllable.
Example:
“People from different countries often speak English with different accents.”
Showing 20 of 50 words
Understanding Grade 5 Vocabulary
Learning Objectives
- Master 50 age-appropriate vocabulary words for Grade 5
- 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 (16): 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 5 spelling bee words?
Grade 5 spelling bee words are carefully selected vocabulary terms appropriate for students aged 10-11 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 5 words suitable for spelling bee competitions?
Yes! Our Grade 5 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 5 vocabulary different from other grade levels?
Grade 5 vocabulary is specifically calibrated for the cognitive and linguistic development of 10-11-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.