essayed repeatedly meaning

Repeated vs Repeatedly: The Differences Between These Terms

Looking at expressing actions that occur more than once, it’s important to use the right word to convey your message accurately. In English, we have two commonly used options: “repeated” and “repeatedly.” While they may seem similar at first glance, there are subtle differences that set them apart.

Repeated is an adjective that describes something that happens or is done more than once. It refers to the action itself, emphasizing the occurrence of multiple instances. For example, if you say, “He made repeated attempts to fix the issue,” you are highlighting the fact that he tried multiple times.

On the other hand, repeatedly is an adverb that describes how an action is done, emphasizing the manner or frequency of repetition. It indicates that something is done over and over again. For instance, if you say, “She knocked on the door repeatedly,” you are emphasizing the continuous and persistent nature of her knocking.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the nuances of these two terms and explore their usage in different contexts. By understanding the distinctions between repeated and repeatedly, you will be able to communicate your ideas more precisely and effectively.

Analyzing The Definitions

In order to understand the distinction between “repeated” and “repeatedly,” it is essential to grasp their individual definitions. Let us delve into each term separately, unraveling their nuanced meanings and implications.

Define Repeated

The term “repeated” refers to the act of doing something more than once, or the occurrence of something happening multiple times. It signifies the replication or duplication of an action, event, or behavior. When an action or event is described as repeated, it implies that it has taken place on more than one occasion, demonstrating a pattern or recurrence.

For instance, imagine a scenario where a student receives the same award for academic excellence for three consecutive years. In this case, the student’s achievement can be described as repeated, as it has occurred multiple times in a recurring manner.

Furthermore, the term “repeated” can also be used to describe the replication of a particular word, phrase, or sequence in a written or spoken context. In literature or rhetoric, repetition can be employed for emphasis, creating a powerful impact on the reader or listener.

To summarize, “repeated” encompasses the notion of something happening more than once, whether it is an action, event, behavior, or linguistic element.

Define Repeatedly

On the other hand, the term “repeatedly” conveys a slightly different connotation compared to “repeated.” While “repeated” focuses on the occurrence of something happening multiple times, “repeatedly” emphasizes the manner in which the action or event is performed or experienced.

“Repeatedly” signifies the act of doing something over and over again, often with a sense of persistence or regularity. It implies a continuous repetition or a recurring pattern of behavior, highlighting the frequency and duration of the action or event.

For example, consider a person who habitually snoozes their alarm clock multiple times every morning before finally waking up. In this case, the person snoozing their alarm can be described as doing so repeatedly, as it becomes a habitual and continuous action.

Moreover, “repeatedly” can also be used to describe the continuous occurrence of an event or circumstance. It suggests that the event or circumstance happens repeatedly over a certain period, without interruption.

In summary, “repeatedly” emphasizes the persistent and continuous nature of an action, event, or behavior, highlighting the frequency and regularity with which it occurs.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to crafting well-structured sentences, choosing the right words is essential. In this section, we will explore the proper usage of the words “repeated” and “repeatedly.” Understanding the nuances of these terms will enable you to convey your ideas with precision and clarity.

How To Use “Repeated” In A Sentence

The word “repeated” is an adjective that describes an action or occurrence that has happened more than once. It emphasizes the act of doing something again, often with a sense of regularity or frequency. When using “repeated” in a sentence, it is important to consider its placement and context.

Here are a few examples of how to use “repeated” in a sentence:

• After several failed attempts, she made a repeated effort to solve the complex puzzle.
• The team’s repeated success in the competition showcased their exceptional skills.
• His repeated absences from work raised concerns among his colleagues.

As demonstrated in these examples, “repeated” is typically placed before a noun to describe an action or occurrence that has happened more than once. It adds emphasis and highlights the ongoing nature of the action.

How To Use “Repeatedly” In A Sentence

The word “repeatedly” is an adverb that conveys the idea of doing something over and over again. It implies a continuous or frequent repetition of an action. When incorporating “repeatedly” into a sentence, it is crucial to consider its placement and usage.

Consider the following examples that illustrate the proper usage of “repeatedly” in a sentence:

• Despite being warned, he repeatedly ignored the safety guidelines.
• The toddler repeatedly pressed the button, causing the toy to make delightful sounds.
• She repeatedly practiced her speech to ensure a flawless delivery.

In these instances, “repeatedly” is positioned before the verb to emphasize the continuous or frequent nature of the action. It indicates that the action is being done repeatedly or persistently.

By understanding the distinction between “repeated” and “repeatedly,” you can effectively communicate the frequency and manner in which an action occurs. Utilize these words thoughtfully to convey your ideas with precision and clarity.

More Examples Of Repeated & Repeatedly Used In Sentences

In this section, we will explore more examples of how the words “repeated” and “repeatedly” can be effectively used in sentences. By examining these examples, we can gain a deeper understanding of the nuances and contexts in which these words are used.

Examples Of Using “Repeated” In A Sentence:

• The student made the same mistake repeatedly during the exam.
• Despite his best efforts, the athlete repeated his previous performance.
• The company’s profits have repeatedly declined over the past year.
• She repeated the instructions to ensure everyone understood.
• After several failed attempts, he finally repeated the experiment successfully.

Examples Of Using “Repeatedly” In A Sentence:

• The alarm clock repeatedly rang, but she refused to wake up.
• The child repeatedly asked for a glass of water throughout the night.
• Despite the warning, he repeatedly violated the company’s code of conduct.
• The politician repeatedly emphasized the importance of education in his speech.
• She repeatedly pressed the button, but the elevator remained unresponsive.

These examples showcase the versatility of the words “repeated” and “repeatedly” in various contexts. Whether it’s describing an action done multiple times or emphasizing the continuous nature of a behavior, these words add precision and clarity to our sentences.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “repeated” and “repeatedly,” many people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, it is important to understand that these two words have distinct meanings and should be used appropriately in different contexts. Let’s take a closer look at some common mistakes people make when using these words and why such usage is incorrect:

1. Using “Repeated” As An Adverb

One common mistake is using “repeated” as an adverb, which is incorrect. “Repeated” is actually an adjective that describes something that has happened more than once. For example:

• Incorrect: He sang the chorus repeated.
• Correct: He sang the chorus repeatedly.

In the correct sentence, “repeatedly” is used as the adverb to describe how the action of singing the chorus occurred multiple times.

2. Using “Repeatedly” As An Adjective

Conversely, another mistake is using “repeatedly” as an adjective, which is also incorrect. “Repeatedly” is an adverb that describes how an action is performed repeatedly or continuously. Consider the following example:

• Incorrect: The repeated rain showers ruined our plans.
• Correct: The repeatedly occurring rain showers ruined our plans.

In the correct sentence, “repeatedly occurring” is used as an adjective phrase to describe the nature of the rain showers, emphasizing their recurring nature.

3. Overusing “Repeatedly” In Place Of “Repeated”

Another common mistake is overusing “repeatedly” when “repeated” would be more appropriate. While “repeatedly” suggests a continuous or frequent repetition of an action, “repeated” simply indicates that something has occurred more than once. Consider the following example:

• Incorrect: She repeatedly pressed the snooze button every morning.
• Correct: She pressed the snooze button repeatedly every morning.

In the correct sentence, “repeatedly” is placed before the adverbial phrase “every morning” to indicate the continuous action of pressing the snooze button. Placing “repeatedly” after the verb “pressed” would imply that she pressed the snooze button multiple times in quick succession.

By understanding these common mistakes and the distinctions between “repeated” and “repeatedly,” you can ensure more accurate and effective usage of these words in your writing. Remember, precision in language is key to conveying your intended meaning and maintaining clarity in your communication.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “repeated” and “repeatedly,” context plays a crucial role in determining which one is more appropriate to use. Both words have similar meanings, but they differ in terms of usage and the nuances they convey. Understanding the context in which these words are used can help writers make informed decisions and ensure their message is conveyed accurately.

Let’s explore a few different contexts and examine how the choice between “repeated” and “repeatedly” might change:

1. Frequency

One key aspect to consider when deciding between “repeated” and “repeatedly” is the frequency of the action being described. “Repeated” is typically used to indicate that an action has occurred more than once, but without specifying the exact number of times. On the other hand, “repeatedly” suggests a higher level of frequency, indicating that the action has occurred multiple times in a recurring manner.

For example:

• “The teacher asked the students to correct their repeated mistakes.”
• “The alarm clock repeatedly went off, causing him to wake up late.”

In the first sentence, “repeated” implies that the students made mistakes more than once, but it doesn’t emphasize the frequency. In the second sentence, “repeatedly” highlights the recurring nature of the alarm clock going off, emphasizing that it happened multiple times.

2. Adverbial Usage

Another factor to consider is the adverbial usage of these words. “Repeated” is primarily used as an adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that something has happened more than once. On the other hand, “repeatedly” functions as an adverb, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed.

• “She repeated the instructions to ensure everyone understood.”
• “He knocked on the door repeatedly , hoping someone would answer.”

In the first sentence, “repeated” describes the instructions, indicating that they were given more than once. In the second sentence, “repeatedly” modifies the verb “knocked,” conveying how the action was performed in a repetitive manner.

3. Narrative Tone

The choice between “repeated” and “repeatedly” can also impact the narrative tone of a piece of writing. “Repeated” tends to have a more neutral tone, simply stating that something occurred more than once. In contrast, “repeatedly” adds a sense of emphasis or frustration, suggesting that the action is happening excessively or undesirably.

• “The child repeated the word after the teacher.”
• “The child repeatedly interrupted the class, causing disruptions.”

In the first sentence, “repeated” neutrally describes the child’s action of saying the word again. In the second sentence, “repeatedly” conveys a sense of annoyance or disruption caused by the child’s continuous interruptions.

The choice between “repeated” and “repeatedly” depends on the specific context in which they are used. Considering factors such as frequency, adverbial usage, and the desired narrative tone can help writers make the appropriate choice and effectively convey their intended meaning.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the usage of “repeated” and “repeatedly” follows a set of general rules, there are a few key exceptions where these rules might not apply. It is important to be aware of these exceptions to ensure accurate and effective communication. Let’s explore some of these exceptions along with brief explanations and examples for each case:

1. Adverbial Use

In some cases, “repeatedly” can be used as an adverb without the need for the verb “repeat.” This exception occurs when “repeatedly” is used to describe an action that is done repeatedly or in a continuous manner. Here’s an example:

“She knocked on the door repeatedly, hoping someone would answer.”

In this example, “repeatedly” modifies the action of knocking, indicating that it was done repeatedly or continuously.

2. Alternative Verb Forms

While “repeat” is the most commonly used verb with “repeated” and “repeatedly,” there are instances where alternative verb forms can be used. These alternative verb forms allow for flexibility in sentence construction. Consider the following example:

“He rehearsed the dance routine over and over again, perfecting each step.”

In this example, “over and over again” serves as a synonym for “repeatedly,” indicating that the action of rehearsing was done repeatedly.

3. Idiomatic Expressions

Idiomatic expressions are phrases or sayings that have a figurative meaning different from the literal interpretation of the individual words. Sometimes, these idiomatic expressions include the use of “repeated” or “repeatedly” to convey a specific meaning. Here’s an example:

“He kept banging his head against the wall, repeatedly ignoring the advice.”

In this example, “repeatedly” emphasizes the continual and stubborn nature of the person’s action, emphasizing their persistence in ignoring the advice.

4. Contextual Variations

Lastly, the usage of “repeated” and “repeatedly” can vary based on the specific context or intended meaning of a sentence. While there may not be strict rules governing these variations, it is important to consider the overall context to ensure clarity. For example:

• “The alarm beeped repeatedly.” – In this case, “repeatedly” emphasizes the continuous beeping sound of the alarm.
• “The alarm beeped repeated times.” – Here, “repeated” suggests that the alarm beeped a specific number of times, possibly in a pattern or sequence.

These variations highlight the importance of considering the intended meaning and context when choosing between “repeated” and “repeatedly.”

Understanding these exceptions will help you navigate the usage of “repeated” and “repeatedly” with greater precision and clarity in your writing and communication.

Understanding the distinction between “repeated” and “repeatedly” is crucial for effective communication and precise language usage. While both words convey the idea of something happening more than once, they differ in their grammatical function and usage in a sentence.

Firstly, “repeated” is an adjective that describes something that has occurred more than once in the past. It is commonly used to emphasize the frequency or occurrence of an action or event. For example, “He made repeated attempts to solve the puzzle” implies that he tried multiple times but was unsuccessful in his efforts.

On the other hand, “repeatedly” is an adverb that indicates the manner in which an action is performed, emphasizing the repetition or frequency of the action in the present or future. It is used to describe ongoing or habitual actions. For instance, “She repeatedly checks her email throughout the day” suggests that she habitually checks her email multiple times during the day.

Moreover, the choice between “repeated” and “repeatedly” depends on the context and desired emphasis. If the focus is on the number of occurrences in the past, “repeated” is appropriate. Conversely, if the emphasis is on the ongoing or habitual nature of the action, “repeatedly” is the suitable choice.

In conclusion, utilizing the correct word, whether “repeated” or “repeatedly,” ensures clear and precise communication. Understanding the nuanced differences between these two words allows writers and speakers to convey their intended meaning accurately and effectively.

Shawn Manaher

Shawn Manaher is the founder and creative force behind GrammarBeast.com. A seasoned entrepreneur and language enthusiast, he is dedicated to making grammar and spelling both fun and accessible. Shawn believes in the power of clear communication and is passionate about helping people master the intricacies of the English language.

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When to use "essay" vs "assay" (as a verb)?

By the dictionary definition as a verb, I can see that essay and assay have the same meaning, i.e. "make an effort or attempt".

I'm wondering if they are totally interchangeable, or is there a difference in degree associated with each?

• differences
• confusables

3 Answers 3

The modern meanings for essay and assay are almost unrelated. One essays a difficult task; one assays an ore or other material to objectively measure its value. A essayist is a writer; an assayer is a metallurgist.

Both have the same root, the French essai (trial). As verbs with the meaning of “attempt or try”, the New Oxford American Dictionary marks essay as “formal”, and assay as “archaic”. Apart from that, they are synonymous (and both antiquated) .

Edit: regarding modern synonyms of this meaning, one would now say attempt or try . Other synonyms are endeavour , seek , undertake or have a go at .

• 1 If both are antiquated, what would be the apt word to be used today ? –  TCSGrad Commented May 8, 2011 at 16:33
• “attempt or try” –  tenfour Commented May 8, 2011 at 18:32
• 1 The verb assay is still commonly used in medicine: medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8412 –  splicer Commented May 8, 2011 at 21:15

The noun "assay" occurs in science, such as a "sequence assay", and scientists often verb such nouns (for example the verb "sequence", such as "we sequenced the human genome").

If you're talking about the verbed noun "assay", then it isn't interchangeable with "essay".

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• Meaning of essayed

essayed ( English)

• Simple past tense and past participle of essay

This is the meaning of essay :

essay ( English)

Pronunciation.

• Rhymes: -ɛseɪ

Origin & history

• A written composition of moderate length exploring a particular issue or subject.
• 2013-01 , Katie L. Burke, Ecological Dependency , American Scientist , Vol 101, number 1, page 64: " In his first book since the 2008 essay collection Natural Acts: A Sidelong View of Science and Nature , David Quammen looks at the natural world from yet another angle: the search for the next human pandemic, what epidemiologists call “the next big one.” "
• ( obsolete ) A test , experiment ; an assay .
• ( now rare ) An attempt .
• 1988 , James McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom , Oxford 2003, p. 455: This was Lee's first essay in the kind of offensive-defensive strategy that was to become his hallmark.
• ( dated , transitive ) To try .
• 1900 , Charles W. Chesnutt , The House Behind the Cedars , Chapter II, He retraced his steps to the front gate, which he essayed to open.
• ( intransitive ) To move forth, as into battle.

Automatically generated practical examples in English:

Having essayed the role of a politician in several Kannada TV serials, he carries his love of dialogue and punch lines to the House and doesn’t skip a beat while berating members or making a point from the chair. The Times of India, 15 July 2019

Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman Aaron Finch on Wednesday praised debutant Devdutt Padikkal who essayed a spectacular fifty against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday. The Times of India, 23 September 2020

Their new midfield enforcer displayed all the poise and grace of Lennie from Of Mice and Men as essayed by Bernard Bresslaw on rollerskates, and was hooked at half-time. The Guardian, 13 September 2021

▾  Further examples

‘City of Joy’ was adapted for a film, directed by Roland Joffe and starring the late Om Puri and Patrick Swayze among others. Om Puri essayed the role of a rickshaw puller, one of the two protagonists in the film. The Times of India, 5 December 2022

Thrice round the neck with longing I essayed / to clasp the phantom in a wild delight; / thrice, vainly clasped, the visionary shade / mocked me embracing, and was lost to sight, / swift as a winged wind or slumber of the night. Tatoeba.org Sentence 6893130

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Cite this page : "essayed" – WordSense Online Dictionary (1st September, 2024) URL: https://www.wordsense.eu/essayed/

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essayerai (French)

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Sentence examples for repeatedly from inspiring English sources

Done several times or in repetition.

• He repeatedly violated the court order, and shall now be punished.

The word 'repeatedly' is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to emphasize that something has been done multiple times, for example, "The teacher repeated the instructions repeatedly.".

Brown repeatedly said he did not recall specifics about altering the cabinet minute or who instructed him to change it.

Since 2011, United has piled up a mountain of consumer complaints (according to one report, only Spirit has more per passenger) and has repeatedly tallied some of the worst quality rankings in the nation, trailing even discount airlines like Frontier and AirTran.

This policing of women's bodies starts early, and when young women are told repeatedly that their attire is linked to their worth, they fall prey to the unrelenting standards of capitalist patriarchy in which they are made to feel as though their appearance is the most important aspect of them as women.

This is the first time the government has admitted the boat's existence after both Morrison and the Australian prime minister repeatedly refused to comment on its whereabouts, citing national security interests under Australia's hardline military-led border regime.

She is repeatedly rescued, but always by men or by chance – she never escape catastrophe thanks to her own ingenuity.

Targaryen manages to repeatedly outmanoeuvre and outwit scheming men who dominate the world of Game of Thrones and dismiss the idea that a woman might have the wherewithal to establish an empire.

There is a long-running show on Italia 1 called Le lene and, a while back, three of its regulars, Trio Medusa, collared the Rome city official with responsibility for policing the stadium and took him through some hypothetical questions about what would happen if a female tourist was repeatedly struck in the face and the attackers took her camera.

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Other forms: essays; essayed; essaying

A composition that is usually short and has a literary theme is called an essay . You should probably start writing your essay on "To Kill a Mockingbird" sometime before the bus ride to school the day it is due.

As a noun, an essay is also an attempt, especially a tentative initial one. Your essay to make friends at your new school would probably work better if you actually spoke to other students. As a verb, to essay is to make an attempt. If you essay to run for student council, you might lose to the girl who promises more recess, longer lunches, and less homework.

• noun an analytic or interpretive literary composition see more see less types: show 5 types... hide 5 types... composition , paper , report , theme an essay (especially one written as an assignment) disquisition an elaborate analytical or explanatory essay or discussion memoir an essay on a scientific or scholarly topic thanatopsis an essay expressing a view on the subject of death term paper a composition intended to indicate a student's progress during a school term type of: piece of writing , writing , written material the work of a writer; anything expressed in letters of the alphabet (especially when considered from the point of view of style and effect)
• verb make an effort or attempt “The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps” synonyms: assay , attempt , seek , try see more see less types: show 17 types... hide 17 types... pick up the gauntlet , take a dare be dared to do something and attempt it fight , struggle make a strenuous or labored effort give it a try , have a go make an attempt at something grope search blindly or uncertainly endeavor , endeavour , strive attempt by employing effort give it a try , give it a whirl try adventure , chance , gamble , hazard , risk , run a risk , take a chance , take chances take a risk in the hope of a favorable outcome lay on the line , put on the line , risk expose to a chance of loss or damage strive , struggle exert strenuous effort against opposition drive , labor , labour , push , tug strive and make an effort to reach a goal flounder behave awkwardly; have difficulties be at pains , take pains try very hard to do something buck to strive with determination go for broke risk everything in one big effort luck it , luck through act by relying on one's luck adventure , hazard , jeopardize , stake , venture put at risk bell the cat take a risk; perform a daring act type of: act , move perform an action, or work out or perform (an action)
• noun a tentative attempt see more see less type of: attempt , effort , endeavor , endeavour , try earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something
• verb put to the test, as for its quality, or give experimental use to synonyms: examine , prove , test , try , try out see more see less types: control , verify check or regulate (a scientific experiment) by conducting a parallel experiment or comparing with another standard float circulate or discuss tentatively; test the waters with field-test test something under the conditions under which it will actually be used type of: evaluate , judge , pass judgment form a critical opinion of

Vocabulary lists containing essay

Before you can answer a question on the PARCC English Language Arts/Literacy section, you first need to know what the question is asking. Learn this list of 45 words that we extracted from a PARCC practice test's directions, question stems, and answer options.

A thorough survey of various textbooks, assignments, content area standards, and examinations yields the following list of words compiled by Jim Burke . You cannot expect to succeed on assignments if you do not understand the directions.

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How to Use repeatedly in a Sentence

Some of these examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'repeatedly.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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verb as in try, attempt

Strong matches

Weak matches

• have a crack
• have a shot
• make a run at
• put to the test
• take a stab at
• take a whack at

Example Sentences

But nothing they essayed could fully drown out the keening of their lust to return to high office.

Lily Pendleton was known to have once essayed an erotic novel, and had read a few chapters to some of her closer friends.

Every time the Confederates essayed to charge they were met with such a storm of shot and shell that they went reeling back.

The bishop emitted lamentable cries and essayed to resist the men who were dragging him into the donjon.

She essayed to sew, and stitched up a seam wrong side out, and ran the point of the needle under her finger nail.

The rock here being of various degrees of density, the waters had essayed a thousand channels.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

• 1.1.1 Pronunciation
• 1.1.2.1 Derived terms
• 1.1.2.2 Related terms
• 1.1.2.3 Translations
• 1.2.1 Pronunciation
• 1.2.2.1 Translations
• 1.3 Anagrams
• 2.1 Etymology
• 2.2 Pronunciation
• 2.3.1 Hypernyms
• 2.3.2 Derived terms
• 2.3.3 Descendants
• 3.1 Etymology
• 3.2.1 Derived terms
• 3.3 References
• 4.1 Etymology
• 4.2.1 Derived terms
• 4.3 References

Etymology 1

Since late 16th century, borrowed from Middle French essay , essai ( “ essay ” ) , meaning coined by Montaigne in the same time, from the same words in earlier meanings 'experiment; assay; attempt', from Old French essay , essai , assay , assai , from Latin exagium ( “ weight; weighing, testing on the balance ” ) , from exigere + -ium .

Pronunciation

• ( Received Pronunciation , General American ) IPA ( key ) : /ˈɛs.eɪ/ (1), IPA ( key ) : /ɛˈseɪ/ (2-4)

• Rhymes: -ɛseɪ
• Homophone : ese

essay ( plural essays )

• 2013 January, Katie L. Burke, “Ecological Dependency”, in American Scientist ‎ [1] , volume 101 , number 1, archived from the original on 9 February 2017 , page 64 : In his first book since the 2008 essay collection Natural Acts: A Sidelong View of Science and Nature , David Quammen looks at the natural world from yet another angle: the search for the next human pandemic, what epidemiologists call “the next big one.”
• ( obsolete ) A test , experiment ; an assay .
• 1861 , E. J. Guerin, Mountain Charley , page 16 : My first essay at getting employment was fruitless; but after no small number of mortifying rebuffs from various parties to whom I applied for assistance, I was at last rewarded by a comparative success.
• 1988 , James McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom , Oxford, published 2003 , page 455 : This was Lee's first essay in the kind of offensive-defensive strategy that was to become his hallmark.
• ( philately , finance ) A proposed design for a postage stamp or a banknote .

Derived terms

• argumentative essay
• automated essay scoring
• eight-legged essay
• essay question
• in this essay I will
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Translations.

Etymology 2

From Middle French essayer , essaier , from Old French essaiier , essayer , essaier , assaiier , assayer , assaier , from essay , essai , assay , assai ( “ attempt; assay; experiment ” ) as above.

• ( UK , US ) IPA ( key ) : /ɛˈseɪ/

essay ( third-person singular simple present essays , present participle essaying , simple past and past participle essayed )

• 1900 , Charles W. Chesnutt , chapter II, in The House Behind the Cedars : He retraced his steps to the front gate, which he essayed to open.
• 1950 April, R. A. H. Weight, “They Passed by My Window”, in Railway Magazine , page 260 : The train took the slow to branch spur at the north end at a not much slower speed, then essayed the short sharply curved climb with a terrific roar, smoke rising straight from the chimney to a height of some 60 ft., the long train twisting and curling behind.
• 2023 October 12, HarryBlank, “Fire in the Hole”, in SCP Foundation ‎ [2] , archived from the original on 22 May 2024 : There was the counter, there was the bulletin board, above her the dull sound of music being played over headphones. Something jaunty. She liked the beat. Then the sound of a chair being pushed back, and someone humming as they walked away from her, and she darted up to plunge the bayonet into their kidneys from behind. A followup stroke through the back of the neck, and the second soldier was down. She didn't even stop to see if it was a man or a woman, young or old. There were further hurdles to essay before she reached her destination.
• ( intransitive ) To move forth, as into battle.
• Sayes , Seays , Sesay , eyass

Borrowed from English essay ( “ essay ” ) , from Middle French essai ( “ essay; attempt, assay ” ) , from Old French essai , from Latin exagium (whence the neuter gender).

• IPA ( key ) : /ɛˈseː/ , /ˈɛ.seː/
• Hyphenation: es‧say
• Rhymes: -eː

essay   n ( plural essays , diminutive essaytje   n )

Descendants

Norwegian bokmål.

Borrowed from English essay , from Middle French essai .

essay   n ( definite singular essayet , indefinite plural essay or essayer , definite plural essaya or essayene )

• an essay , a written composition of moderate length exploring a particular subject
• essaysamling
• “essay” in The Bokmål Dictionary .

Norwegian Nynorsk

essay   n ( definite singular essayet , indefinite plural essay , definite plural essaya )

• “essay” in The Nynorsk Dictionary .

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17 Sex Terms You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask About, Defined

Especially with the rise of social media, new terms are coined all the time, including in the arena of sexuality. For instance, while the word "cuck" has become an insult hurled by the right-wing trolls, it's related to cuckolding, which can (and should) be a hot and consensual sexual activity that all involved parties enjoy. If you weren't quite sure of what that particular word's definition is — or you're unclear on terms like felching, docking, or queening, for that matter — I've written a near-comprehensive guide.

Additionally, if you're wondering if any given sex act is really a thing, keep in mind the wise words of sex educator Jimanekia Eborn : " Everything is a thing, is basically what I have learned working in sex education." In other words, if you can dream it, you can do it — or at least rest assured that someone else has probably tried to. With that being said, here are 17 sex terms you probably didn't learn in sex ed, explained.

1. Pearl Necklace

As Samantha explained to Charlotte on a memorable episode of Sex and the City , a pearl necklace is what results when someone ejaculates on or around their partner's neck or chest (yes, so that the semen is roughly where a pearl necklace is when worn). If you're not someone who enjoys wearing this kind of pearl necklace, feel free to stick to Charlotte's preferred version, which you can find at Bloomingdale's.

2. Impact Play

Impact play refers to any impact on the body done for sexual gratification, from spanking to whips and crops . When engaging in impact play, remember to pick a safe word and continually check in with one another to ensure the level of pain is desirable. It's also important to stick to areas on the body which are safe to spank or tap on with a crop, which means fleshy, meaty areas away from the organs, such as the butt and thighs. If this sounds appealing to you, be sure to check out my guide to first-timer BDSM tips .

Dungeon Dwellers And Domination Enthusiasts Descend On DomconLA

3. squirting.

Squirting is when a person with a vagina ejaculates fluid during sex. Eborn says she is frequently asked if squirting is a myth, and she's only too happy to share that it is not, nor is it "just peeing." Research suggests that the fluid involved comes partly from Skene's glands, also known as the "female prostate" — but as with many subjects that don't focus on a penis, more research is required. Not everyone squirts, and among those who do, some squirt from clitoral stimulation and some squirt from G-spot stimulation (that is, stimulation of the sensitive front wall of the vagina).

You may be familiar with cognitive behavioral therapy , a helpful form of talk therapy. However, within the world of kink, CBT refers to "cock and ball torture." This form of CBT can be therapeutic for people with penises interested in having a dominatrix inflict pain on their genitals, through the use of ropes, whips, or even chastity devices.

Pegging refers to when a woman penetrates a man anally with a strap-on dildo . There's a now-infamous pegging scene in a Broad City episode that recently repopularized the term.

6. Queening

Queening is just a glamorous name for sitting on someone's face. There's nothing more to it than that.

7. Scissoring

Scissoring, also called tribadism or tribbing, is most often thought of as the territory of same-sex, female-identified couples. It's usually considered to be two partners rubbing their vulvas against each other's, but can also be defined as one partner rubbing their vulva against other body parts of their partner's (including the thighs and butt), as Autostraddle pointed out . In so-called "classic" scissor position, partners' legs intersect so that they look like — you guessed it — scissors. Porn (especially porn made for the male gaze) has probably hyped up scissoring as a more popular act among women who have sex with women than it actually is in real life, but plenty of people love it.

Women in lingerie touching each other

8. edge play.

When you first hear the term "edge play," it's easy to assume it refers to extreme sex acts that literally involve an edge of some sort, such as knives or needles (and yes, some people consensually incorporate those things into sex). But no sharp objects need to be involved in this type of edge play. The term means kinky sexual acts that push your boundaries (consensually) to the edge, which can be exhilarating for some. What is considered edge play differs from person to person, as we all have our own boundaries and limits. For some, psychological play such as name-calling may be edge play. If you are going to try pushing your boundaries , please do so with a partner you trust and use a safe word.

Figging is one of those sexual acts that are so interesting it's fun to know what it means, but you have to wonder if anyone actually does it. Figging is the act of inserting a piece of peeled ginger into someone's butthole, which would burn, sting, and be quite painful. Figging allegedly originated as a (non-sexual) form of corporal punishment on female prisoners by the Greek and the Roman empires. These days, the term also can refer to the general infliction of consensual pain on the anus.

10. Aftercare

Aftercare is a sexual practice that everyone should be doing, whether you're having kinky sex or vanilla sex. It's a term created by the kink community and simply means checking in with your partner(s) after sex to make sure all parties felt good and safe about what just went down and taking care of one another emotionally and physically. This can mean cuddling, bringing ice to the submissive partners if there are any spanking bruises, and talking about what you liked or what you didn't like. It really just means checking in post-sex, and if anything did happen that one or all parties felt weird about, making sure it doesn't happen the next time.

11. Felching

To felch is to suck up semen out of an orifice (using a straw is optional). For instance, someone may ejaculate inside their partner's anus and then suck their own semen out of the anus with their mouth; they then may or may not swallow. (Keep in mind that exchanging fluids in this way is associated with the risk of STIs , including HIV.)

12. Bukkake

Bukkake is both a sex act and popular genre of porn in which multiple men, typically three or more, ejaculate all over a woman.

13. Docking

"Docking is when two uncircumcised [people with penises] get together," Eborn explains. "[The first] pulls his foreskin back and holds it while [the second] stretches [theirs] open and outward as far as possible over the head and shaft of [the first partner's] penis." She says she is frequently asked if this act is real and possible, and her response is that with enough imagination and determination, most things are. (That said, remember that comfort and safety should take priority in all sexual encounters, no matter how creative.)

14. Cuckolding

Cuckolding is when a person in a relationship stands by as their partner has sex with someone else. There are many ways to cuck: The "cuckold" may look on while tied up in a corner, or the cuckold's partner may go out on their own, have sex, and report back. There is usually an element of humiliation involved: For instance, a wife may tell her husband all about how her other partner has a massive penis and can satisfy her in ways her husband cannot. Yes, some men are turned on by being told they suck in bed. (Important note: It's totally possible to share sexy fantasies about cuckolding with your partner without actually doing it.)

Professional dominatrixes often get requests to do cuckolding sessions in which they may have their submissive watch as they have sex with a different partner or tell the submissive to buy them lingerie for them to wear on a date with someone else. While cuckolding is primarily associated with married, opposite-sex couples, people can enjoy cuckolding play regardless of gender, orientation, or relationship status.

Me, My Boyfriend And My Slave

15. water sports.

According to safe-for-work Google searches, water sports are aquatic activities such as jet-skiing. In the bedroom, however, the term refers to the incorporation of urine in erotic play. A golden shower, for example, is when one partner pees on the other. If you want to try this kind of play for the first time but are a little nervous, peeing on your partner (or being peed on) in the shower is a good way to dip your toe in the water, metaphorically speaking.

16. Fisting

Fisting is when one partner inserts their entire hand or fist into the other partner's vagina (or anus, for the highly talented). If you enjoy intense penetration but are dating someone with a small penis, remember that they have an entire fist to use on you. (And no, a penchant for fisting won't make your vagina loose ( nor will sex in general , so put that myth out of your head).

If you'd like to try it, go slow and use plenty of lube ; the fister can also wear a latex glove to keep things extra sanitary and help the hand slide into the orifice. And as with any sex act, enthusiastic consent and in-the-moment communication are key to enjoyment by all parties.

Medicine. Medical staff putting on latex gloves. Germany, Europe

17. queefing.

OK, so this one may not be a sex act, exactly, but it frequently happens during sex. Queefing is when air escapes from the vagina, often during or after penetration, and makes a farting sound. It's a form of flatulence, and it's totally normal. "At one point in time, it happens to all of us. We laugh [about it] to keep from being embarrassed," Eborn says.

Read more stories about sexuality and exploration:

11 of the Most Common Sexual Fetishes

What You Need to Know Before Having a Threesome

BDSM Sex Tips to Try If You're a Total Beginner

Now, watch our wellness editor try out flavored lube:

Don't forget to follow Allure on Instagram and Twitter .

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Definition of essay noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• I have to write an essay this weekend.
• essay on something an essay on the causes of the First World War
• essay about somebody/something Have you done your essay about Napoleon yet?
• in an essay He made some very good points in his essay.
• Essays handed in late will not be accepted.
• Have you done your essay yet?
• He concludes the essay by calling for a corrective.
• I finished my essay about 10 o'clock last night!
• Lunch was the only time she could finish her essay assignment.
• We have to write an essay on the environment.
• You have to answer 3 out of 8 essay questions in the exam.
• the teenage winner of an essay contest
• We have to write an essay on the causes of the First World War.
• be entitled something
• be titled something
• address something
• in an/​the essay
• essay about

Questions about grammar and vocabulary?

Find the answers with Practical English Usage online, your indispensable guide to problems in English.

• essay (by somebody) a collection of essays by prominent African American writers
• essay on somebody/something The book contains a number of interesting essays on women in society.
• essay about somebody/something Pierce contributes a long essay about John F. Kennedy.
• in an essay I discuss this in a forthcoming essay.
• A version of this essay was presented at the Astronomical Society.
• In 2001 she published a collection of essays.
• The essays explore Einstein's personal development.
• the fifteen essays collected in this volume
• ‘An Essay on the Principle of Population’ by Thomas Malthus
• an essay entitled ‘Memory’
• This essay provides a comprehensive overview of the subject.
• His first essay in politics was a complete disaster.

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Nearby words.

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of essay in English

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• I want to finish off this essay before I go to bed .
• His essay was full of spelling errors .
• Have you given that essay in yet ?
• Have you handed in your history essay yet ?
• I'd like to discuss the first point in your essay.
• boilerplate
• composition
• corresponding author
• dissertation
• essay question
• peer review
• go all out idiom
• go down swinging/fighting idiom
• go for it idiom
• go for someone
• go out of your way idiom
• smarten (someone/something) up
• smarten up your act idiom
• square the circle idiom
• step on the gas idiom
• stick at something

essay | Intermediate English

Examples of essay, collocations with essay.

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Word of the Day

play truant

to be regularly absent from school without permission

It’s not really my thing (How to say you don’t like something)

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