Grade 6 Word Definitions
Learn the meanings, pronunciations, and usage examples for 50 spelling words.
✓ 50 of 50 words have complete definitions
abbreviation
/əˌbriviˈeɪʃən/nounmediumDefinition:
A shortened form of a word or phrase.
Example:
“The abbreviation 'etc.' stands for 'et cetera.'”
aberration
/ˌæbəˈreɪʃən/nounmediumDefinition:
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected.
Example:
“The sudden cold weather in summer was a strange aberration.”
abhorrent
/æbˈhɔrənt/adjectivechallengingDefinition:
Inspiring disgust and loathing; repugnant.
Example:
“Acts of cruelty are abhorrent to most civilized people.”
abiding
/əˈbaɪdɪŋ/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Lasting a long time; enduring.
Example:
“She has an abiding love for classical music.”
ability
/əˈbɪləti/nouneasyDefinition:
The capacity or skill to do something.
Example:
“Her ability to solve complex problems impressed the teacher.”
abnegation
/ˌæbnɪˈɡeɪʃən/nounchallengingDefinition:
The act of renouncing or rejecting something; self-denial.
Example:
“The monk's life was one of abnegation and simplicity.”
abnormal
/æbˈnɔrməl/adjectiveeasyDefinition:
Deviating from what is normal or usual; not typical.
Example:
“The abnormal test results prompted further investigation.”
abolition
/ˌæbəˈlɪʃən/nounmediumDefinition:
The formal ending or elimination of a system, practice, or institution.
Example:
“The abolition of slavery was a major milestone in human rights.”
abominable
/əˈbɑmɪnəbəl/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Causing moral revulsion; detestable or very bad.
Example:
“The abominable conditions in the old building needed immediate attention.”
aboriginal
/ˌæbəˈrɪdʒɪnəl/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Inhabiting or existing in a land from the earliest times; indigenous.
Example:
“Aboriginal peoples have lived in Australia for thousands of years.”
abortive
/əˈbɔrtɪv/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Failing to produce the intended result; unsuccessful.
Example:
“Their abortive attempt to climb the mountain ended due to bad weather.”
abrasive
/əˈbreɪsɪv/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Capable of polishing or cleaning by rubbing or grinding, or showing little concern for others' feelings.
Example:
“Sandpaper is an abrasive material used for smoothing wood.”
abridge
/əˈbrɪdʒ/verbmediumDefinition:
To shorten a text or speech while keeping the main content.
Example:
“The editor decided to abridge the novel for younger readers.”
abrogation
/ˌæbrəˈɡeɪʃən/nounchallengingDefinition:
The repeal or abolition of a law, right, or agreement.
Example:
“The abrogation of the treaty caused tension between the nations.”
abrupt
/əˈbrʌpt/adjectiveeasyDefinition:
Sudden and unexpected; happening without warning.
Example:
“The abrupt ending of the story left readers wanting more.”
absolution
/ˌæbsəˈluʃən/nounmediumDefinition:
Formal release from guilt, obligation, or punishment.
Example:
“The priest granted absolution after the confession.”
absolutism
/ˈæbsəˌlutɪzəm/nounmediumDefinition:
The principle or practice of complete and unrestricted government power.
Example:
“Absolutism was common in European monarchies during the 17th century.”
absorbent
/əbˈsɔrbənt/adjectivemediumDefinition:
Able to soak up liquid easily.
Example:
“Paper towels are highly absorbent and useful for cleaning spills.”
absorption
/əbˈsɔrpʃən/nounmediumDefinition:
The process of absorbing or being absorbed, either physically or mentally.
Example:
“The absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestine.”
abstention
/æbˈstɛnʃən/nounmediumDefinition:
The act of restraining oneself from doing or enjoying something.
Example:
“His abstention from voting indicated his neutrality on the issue.”
Showing 20 of 50 words
Understanding Grade 6 Vocabulary
Learning Objectives
- Master 50 age-appropriate vocabulary words for Grade 6
- 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 (13): 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 6 spelling bee words?
Grade 6 spelling bee words are carefully selected vocabulary terms appropriate for students aged 11-12 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 6 words suitable for spelling bee competitions?
Yes! Our Grade 6 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 6 vocabulary different from other grade levels?
Grade 6 vocabulary is specifically calibrated for the cognitive and linguistic development of 11-12-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.