Reverse Dictionary #10

Actually, I have since learned that there are examples of ancient chariots with more than two wheels, and … there was also a specific type of covered four-wheeled carriage in the early 19th century that was called a chariot, even though it bore little resemblance to what one normally thinks of as a chariot. It breaks my heart (only because my stats will probably reset), but it seems I must add “chariot” as a type-in.

“Connect” is a verb. It would be an appropriate answer for the definition “TO establish communication (with).” “Contact” is both a verb and a noun. The definition given here is for the noun, but I have updated the definition to clarify that. And perhaps I need to add a part of speech column.

Yes. Usage has to do with norms, expectations and rules, and is used almost exclusively to refer to points of language.

“To write very clearly” is a strong indication that the answer must be a verb, as is any definition that begins with an infinitive. The only verbal definition I know of for “prose” is “to talk tediously,” e.g., Henry bored the diners nearest him by prosing on about his latest research.

I have a quibble (so what else is new?) with adding “finalized” as a type-in for finished. Examples of why I find it problematic:

1. My draft is finished, but it still needs to be finalized by the team.

2. Lunch is finished. Context will tell us whether “finished” means “ready to eat,” “already eaten,” or “no longer being served, and you should know the kitchen’s hours by now.” But “Lunch is finalized” probably means I’ve gone over the luncheon menu for next Tuesday’s charity bazaar meeting with Mrs. Bridges, the cook.

3. After the stunt Gregory pulled at this morning’s staff meeting, his career here is finished. But can I really say his career is finalized?

4. My workout is finished, i.e., I am done working out for now. “My workout is finalized” sounds like I’ve decided how long I’ll spend on cardio and strength training, how many sets and reps I will do of each exercise and in what order I will do each.

Except for #3 (above), where it does not seem to work at all, “finalized” seems to mean vetted, agreed upon or decided upon. I don’t see that as an essential ingredient of “finished.”

I have never heard of flora being called inhabitants (possibly because they don’t choose their own locale?), but fauna are definitely inhabitants. I am adding “human” to the definition as suggested.