| neon |
a chemical element of the inert gas group that has ten protons in each nucleus and that is used in liquid form as a refrigerant, and in gaseous form as an atmosphere for electrical discharge lamps because it glows a brilliant orange when excited by electricity. (symbol: Ne) [5 definitions] |
| neonate |
a newborn child, esp. one in its first month of life. |
| neophyte |
a beginner or novice at any activity. [3 definitions] |
| neoplasm |
a new growth of tissue that is abnormal or different from surrounding tissue; growth or tumor. |
| Neoplatonism |
a philosophical school and doctrine founded by Plotinus in the third century A.D. that asserts that all existence flows from a single source, with which the soul seeks to unite. |
| neoprene |
a synthetic, weather-resistant rubber used in paint and putty, as a lining or covering, and in shoe soles. |
| Nepal |
an Asian country between India and Tibet. |
| nepenthe |
in ancient writings, a drink or potion said to have been used to dull pain and sorrow and induce forgetfulness. [2 definitions] |
| nephew |
a son of one's brother, brother-in-law, sister, or sister-in-law. |
| nephrectomy |
surgical removal of one or both kidneys. |
| nephridium |
the excretory organ found in many invertebrates. [2 definitions] |
| nephrite |
a compact mineral that is a variety of jade and that varies in color from whitish to dark green. |
| nephritis |
inflammation of the kidneys. |
| nephro- |
kidney. |
| nephrology |
the branch of medicine that deals with the kidneys. |
| nephropathy |
any disease of the kidney. |
| ne plus ultra |
(Latin) the highest point, esp. of achievement or excellence; ultimate. |
| nepotism |
favoritism shown to a near relative, as in preferential hiring or patronage. |
| Neptune |
in Roman mythology, the god of the sea; Poseidon. [2 definitions] |
| neptunium |
a synthetic radioactive chemical element of the actinide series that contains ninety-three protons in each nucleus. (symbol: Np) |
| nerd |
(slang) a person regarded as dull, unattractive, inept, or the like. |