Natural World

an animal that is hunted and eaten by another animal

The lion silently stalked its prey through the tall grass.

the tough outer covering or skin of a fruit or vegetables

As the sun beat down, they relaxed on the beach, sipping on cold beverages with slices of lime rind floating on top.

a long period of time when there is not much raining

The city imposed water restrictions because of the drought.

a drastic and sudden rush of wind

A sudden gust of wind rattled the windows, causing the curtains to billow into the room.

the accumulation of compressed layers of snow on the ground in regions where snowfall is common

a large woody plant with several main stems emerging from the ground

The garden was filled with colorful shrubs that bloomed in the spring.

a small and thin branch of a tree stemmed from another branch

The bird built its nest using twigs and leaves from the nearby trees.

a location where the surrounding landscape creates an optical illusion, making a gentle downhill slope appear as if it is an uphill slope

a cloth covering placed or hung over something such as a bed or seat, used as a decoration or shelter

large amounts of snow falling from mountains

Rescue teams were dispatched to the area after the avalanche.

a large, feathery structure or arrangement, typically found on birds, often used for display or flight

The peacock displayed its vibrant plume to attract a mate.

a protected area designated for the conservation of wild animals and their natural habitats

the child or children of a particular person or animal

The lioness proudly watched over her offspring as they played in the sun.

the dense, low-growing vegetation beneath the canopy of trees in a forest, consisting of shrubs, bushes, and small plants

The hikers had to clear a path through the thick underbrush.

a hole that an animal digs in the ground to use as a shelter

The rabbit disappeared into its burrow, seeking refuge from the approaching storm.

a clear semi-precious gemstone consisting beryllium, with a light blue to green range of color

to vigorously and continuously throw objects, often with force or intensity

The protesters pelted the police with stones during the demonstration.

the presence of liquid, typically water, in a state of wetness or dampness

After the rain, there was noticeable moisture on the leaves of the plants.

a storm with heavy snowfall and strong winds

The blizzard made driving conditions hazardous.

a sticky, organic substance exuded by certain plants and trees, often used in varnishes, adhesives, and incense

The pine tree's resin was collected to make natural varnish.

informal terms for the mouth

turkeys, chickens, geese, ducks, etc. that are kept for their eggs and meat

The farm specializes in raising poultry for both meat and egg production.

a small and young tree

The forest was filled with many new saplings.

one or all the descendants of an ancestor

The scientist was excited to study the progeny of the genetically modified plants to see if the desired traits were passed on.

an energetic style

to sleep, typically in a calm and peaceful manner

After a day of hiking, he found a peaceful spot to slumber under the trees.

(of hair) thick, rich, and abundant

Her luxuriant hair flowed down her back like a silken waterfall.

a substance that is safe and suitable for consumption as food

The chef displayed several edibles on the table.

pleasantly warm, mild, and soothing

The balmy breeze rustled the leaves, bringing a sense of tranquility to the garden.

a vehicle that can use two or more different sources of power as needed, often petrol in addition to electricity or diesel

The latest hybrid SUV seamlessly switches between its petrol engine and electric motor during city commutes to maximize fuel economy.

(of a baby) born before completing the normal full-term pregnancy length

The twins were delivered at 30 weeks, making them moderately premature.

to start to grow, producing buds or branches

After a few days in the moist soil, the seeds began to germinate.

the long plaintive cry of a hound or a wolf

(of a bird) to land and rest on something, such as a branch, bar, etc.

The robin perched on the windowsill, singing softly.

the process by which liquid passes through a material, dissolving and carrying away soluble components

After each heavy rain, technicians measured soil leach to evaluate fertilizer runoff.

(birds or bats) to settle or rest on a perch or in a shelter for sleep or rest

The birds roost in the large oak tree every evening.

(of sheep, cows, etc.) to feed on the grass in a field

The sheep were allowed to graze freely in the meadow.

(of a bird) to move the beak in a sudden movement and bite something

The chickens pecked at the scattered grains in the yard.

to quickly move from a higher place toward the ground

Be careful not to slip and fall on the wet floor.

to groom oneself or another individual by straightening and cleaning the feathers or fur using the beak or tongue

an abnormally rapid vibration or pulsation of one's heart, particularly in an irregular rhythm

the part of an object located on the opposite side from its front

The car's rear was dented in the accident.