Suffix--ance Vocabulary Words – Online Spelling Bee

Spell: abeyance (noun) /əˈbeɪəns/
Definition: A state of temporary suspension or inactivity, typically applied to legal rights, actions, or processes.
Example Sentence: "The negotiations were held in abeyance pending the outcome of the legal dispute."
Word origin: The noun 'abeyance' has its origins in Old French, where it was spelled as 'abeance' or 'abeance.

Spell: abundance (noun) /əˈbʌnd(ə)ns/
Definition: Having a plentiful and ample quantity of something, often in excess of what is needed or expected.
Example Sentence: "The abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables made shopping at the farmer's market a delight."
Word origin: The noun 'abundance' has its etymological roots in Latin, originating from the word 'abundantia.

Spell: accordance (noun) /əˈkɔr dns/
Definition: A state or condition of agreement, conformity, or harmony between two or more things.
Example Sentence: "The project progressed smoothly in accordance with the plan."
Word origin: The noun 'accordance' derives its etymology from the verb 'accord,' which in turn has its roots in the Latin word 'accordare,' composed of 'ad' (to) and 'cor' (heart).

Spell: advance (verb) /ædˈvæns/
Definition: To move forward, progress or make progress, often in a purposeful or intentional manner.
Example Sentence: "The team strives to advance their research in medicine."
Word origin: The verb 'advance' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: allegiance (noun) /əˈliːdʒ(ə)ns/
Definition: The loyalty or commitment that a person or group has to a particular person, group, or cause.
Example Sentence: "She showed allegiance to her family by supporting them through difficult times."
Word origin: The noun 'allegiance' has its etymological origins in medieval Latin and Old French.

Spell: alliance (noun) /əˈlaɪ əns/
Definition: A formal or informal partnership or union formed between two or more individuals, groups, organizations, or nations to achieve a common goal or objective.
Example Sentence: "A strategic alliance can lead to innovative collaborations."
Word origin: The noun 'alliance' has a rich etymology rooted in the Old French word 'aliance' and the Latin word 'alligantia.

Spell: allowance (noun) /əˈlaʊ əns/
Definition: An allowance refers to a regular sum of money given to someone, often on a scheduled basis.
Example Sentence: "She receives a monthly allowance from her parents."
Word origin: The noun 'allowance' has its etymological origins in the Old French word 'alouance,' which is derived from the verb 'alouer.

Spell: ambiance (noun) /ˈæm bi əns/
Definition: The overall atmosphere, mood, or character of a place, environment, or situation.
Example Sentence: "The cozy fireplace added to the cabin's ambiance."
Word origin: The noun 'ambiance' has an interesting etymology rooted in the French language.

Spell: arrogance (noun) /ˈær ə gəns/
Definition: An exaggerated or inflated sense of self-importance or superiority.
Example Sentence: "She displayed arrogance when she dismissed others' opinions."
Word origin: The noun 'arrogance' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: askance (adverb) /əˈskans/
Definition: With a side glance or look that is given with suspicion, distrust, or disapproval.
Example Sentence: "She looked askance at the car salesman 's assertion that the car has only 20,000 genuine miles."
Word origin: The adverb 'askance' has a rich etymology rooted in Old English.

Spell: assurance (noun) /əˈʃʊər əns/
Definition: A sense of confidence, certainty, or guarantee about something.
Example Sentence: "The insurance policy offered assurance in case of unexpected accidents or damages."
Word origin: The noun 'assurance' has its etymological origins in Old French and Latin.

Spell: avoidance (noun) /əˈvɔɪd ns/
Definition: The act or practice of intentionally staying away from or evading someone, something, or a particular situation.
Example Sentence: "The child's social avoidance was a result of past negative experiences."
Word origin: The noun 'avoidance' is derived from the verb 'avoid,' and it reflects the act or practice of intentionally staying away from or evading someone, something, or a particular situation.

Spell: balance (noun) /ˈbæl əns/
Definition: A state of equilibrium or stability achieved through equal distribution or harmonious arrangement.
Example Sentence: "The accountant carefully calculated the balance in the company's financial statements."
Word origin: The noun 'balance' has a rich etymology that reflects its fundamental concept of equilibrium and harmony.

Spell: chance (verb) /tʃæns/
Definition: To take a risk or engage in an activity with an uncertain outcome or result.
Example Sentence: "She decided to chance her luck and enter the contest."
Word origin: The verb 'chance' has its etymological roots in both Old French and Latin.

Spell: cognizance (noun) /ˈkɒɡnɪzəns/
Definition: The state of being aware, knowledgeable, or conscious of something.
Example Sentence: "The company operated the project with full cognizance of the potential risks involved."
Word origin: The noun 'cognizance' has its roots in Latin and Old French.

Spell: comeuppance (noun) /kʌmˈʌp(ə)ns/
Definition: The deserved consequences or punishment that someone receives for their actions, especially when those actions are considered wrong or immoral.
Example Sentence: "The villain's comeuppance was long overdue."
Word origin: The noun 'comeuppance' is an interesting term with a somewhat elusive etymology.

Spell: conveyance (noun) /kənˈveɪ əns/
Definition: The means of transporting people or goods from one place to another.
Example Sentence: "The city's subway system is a vital urban conveyance."
Word origin: The noun 'conveyance' has its etymological origins in Latin.

Spell: countenance (noun) /ˈkaʊntɪnəns/
Definition: A sense of endorsement or agreement, often in the face of challenge or uncertainty.
Example Sentence: "The teacher's stern countenance commanded respect in the classroom."
Word origin: The noun 'countenance' has its origins in the Middle English word 'countenaunce,' which was derived from the Old French 'contenance,' meaning 'behavior' or 'demeanor.

Spell: defiance (noun) /dɪˈfʌɪəns/
Definition: The act of resisting or rejecting authority, control, or expectations.
Example Sentence: "The protester raised their fist in an act of defiance against the oppressive regime."
Word origin: The noun 'defiance' has its origins in the Middle English word 'defiaunce,' which came from Old French 'defiance' and ultimately traces its roots to the Latin word 'defiare.

Spell: deliverance (noun) /dɪˈlɪv(ə)r(ə)ns/
Definition: The act of being rescued or freed from a difficult or dangerous situation.
Example Sentence: "The hikers were grateful for their deliverance from the wilderness."
Word origin: The noun 'deliverance' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin.

Spell: dissonance (noun) /ˈdɪs(ə)nəns/
Definition: A state of tension, conflict, or incongruity between two or more things, such as ideas, emotions, or actions.
Example Sentence: "He felt a sense of dissonance between his beliefs and his actions."
Word origin: The noun 'dissonance' has its etymological origins in Latin.

Spell: disturbance (noun) /dɪˈstɜr bəns/
Definition: A state or condition of disruption, agitation, or interference with the normal functioning or peaceful nature of something.
Example Sentence: "The sudden power outage was a temporary disturbance to our daily routine."
Word origin: The noun 'disturbance' shares its etymological roots with the verb 'disturb.

Spell: dominance (noun) /ˈdɒm ə nəns/
Definition: A state or condition of having control, authority, or power over others.
Example Sentence: "He challenged her dominance in the chess match by making strategic moves."
Word origin: The noun 'dominance' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'dominare,' which means 'to rule' or 'to govern.

Spell: encumbrance (noun) /ɪnˈkʌmbr(ə)ns/
Definition: Something that restricts or hinders the free use or disposal of something.
Example Sentence: "The heavy suitcase was an encumbrance as he walked through the airport."
Word origin: The noun 'encumbrance' has its roots in Old French, where it was spelled as 'encombrance,' and it can be traced back to the Latin word 'incumbrare.

Spell: enhance (verb) /ɛnˈhæns/
Definition: To improve, intensify, or increase the quality, value, or effectiveness of something.
Example Sentence: "Studying abroad can enhance your cultural awareness and language skills."
Word origin: The verb 'enhance' traces its roots to the Middle English word 'enauncen,' which evolved from the Old French word 'enhaucier.

Spell: flamboyance (adjective) /flæmˈbɔɪ ənt/
Definition: Extravagant, showy, or strikingly bold in appearance, behavior, or style.
Example Sentence: "The flamboyance of the peacock's feathers mesmerized onlookers."
Word origin: The adjective 'flamboyance' is derived from the French word 'flamboyant,' which means 'flaming' or 'blazing.

Spell: forbearance (noun) /fɔrˈbɛər əns/
Definition: The act or quality of exercising patience, self-control, and restraint, particularly in difficult or challenging situations.
Example Sentence: "The teacher demonstrated great forbearance in dealing with the misbehaving student."
Word origin: The noun 'forbearance' is derived from the verb 'forbear,' which has its origins in Old English.

Spell: grievance (noun) /ˈɡriːv(ə)ns/
Definition: A complaint or dissatisfaction that someone has about a particular situation or treatment.
Example Sentence: "The union presented a grievance on behalf of the workers for unsafe working conditions."
Word origin: The noun 'grievance' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin.

Spell: guidance (noun) /ˈgaɪd ns/
Definition: The act or process of providing direction, advice, or assistance to someone in order to help them make informed decisions, navigate challenges, or achieve specific goals.
Example Sentence: "The company provided guidance to its employees regarding the new policies."
Word origin: The term 'guidance' finds its etymological roots in the Old French word 'guidance,' which means 'the action of guiding or directing.

Spell: happenstance (noun) /ˈhæpənˌstæns/
Definition: A chance or coincidence that occurs without any specific planning or intention.
Example Sentence: "The success of the business was a happenstance that occurred due to a chance encounter."
Word origin: The noun 'happenstance' has a straightforward etymology that mirrors its meaning.

Spell: hindrance (noun) /ˈhɪn drəns/
Definition: An obstacle, barrier, or impediment that obstructs or slows down progress, development, or achievement of a goal.
Example Sentence: "Poor communication among team members became a hindrance to effective collaboration."
Word origin: The noun 'hindrance' traces its origins to Middle English, where it was spelled as 'hinderance,' and it was formed by adding the suffix '-ance' to the word 'hinder.

Spell: maintenance (noun) /ˈmeɪn tə nəns/
Definition: The act or process of preserving, repairing, and upkeeping something to ensure its proper functioning, usability, or appearance.
Example Sentence: "The building's maintenance team promptly addressed the plumbing issue."
Word origin: The term 'maintenance' has a rich etymology that sheds light on its meaning.

Spell: malfeasance (noun) /malˈfiːzns/
Definition: Committing a wrongdoing or an illegal activity while in a position of authority or trust.
Example Sentence: "The politician was investigated for allegations of malfeasance during their time in office."
Word origin: The noun 'malfeasance' has an etymology that underscores its connection to wrongdoing and abuse of authority.

Spell: nonchalance (noun) /ˌnɒn ʃəˈlɑns/
Definition: A state or quality of being unconcerned, indifferent, or appearing casual and relaxed in the face of circumstances that might typically evoke a stronger reaction.
Example Sentence: "She faced criticism with graceful nonchalance."
Word origin: The noun 'nonchalance' has its origins in the French language.

Spell: nuance (noun) /ˈnjuːɑːns/
Definition: Subtle, often slight differences or variations in meaning, expression, tone, or feeling within a particular context, statement, or situation.
Example Sentence: "His paintings were a masterclass in artistic nuance."
Word origin: The noun 'nuance' has its etymological roots in French.

Spell: nuisance (noun) /ˈnjuːsns/
Definition: An inconvenience or annoyance that is caused by a person, thing, or situation.
Example Sentence: "Mosquitoes buzzing around the backyard were a summertime nuisance."
Word origin: The noun 'nuisance' derives its etymology from the Old French word 'nuire,' meaning 'to harm' or 'to hurt.

Spell: ordinance (noun) /ˈɔːd(ɪ)nəns/
Definition: A type of law or regulation that is passed by a local government, such as a city or a county.
Example Sentence: "Violating the noise ordinance can result in a fine."
Word origin: The noun 'ordinance' finds its etymological roots in the Latin word 'ordinare,' which means 'to arrange' or 'to order.

Spell: parlance (noun) /ˈpɑːl(ə)ns/
Definition: A particular way of speaking or using language within a certain group or culture.
Example Sentence: "Linguistics delves into the structure and evolution of language."
Word origin: The noun 'parlance' finds its origins in the Old French word 'parler,' which means 'to speak' or 'to talk.

Spell: penance (noun) /ˈpɛnəns/
Definition: A good deed or self-punishment to show remorse and make up for one's wrongdoing.
Example Sentence: "He did public penance for his wanton acts of vandalism."
Word origin: The noun 'penance' originates from the Latin word 'poenitentia,' which signifies 'repentance' or 'regret.

Spell: perseverance (noun) /ˌpɜr səˈvɪər əns/
Definition: The quality or act of persisting in the face of challenges, obstacles, or setbacks.
Example Sentence: "She admired his perseverance and dedication to his craft."
Word origin: The noun 'perseverance' has its etymological roots in Latin and reflects the enduring quality of persistence.

Spell: piece-de-resistance (noun) /piːˌɛs də rɪˈzɪstɒ̃s/
Definition: French for "piece of resistance", referring to the most important or impressive feature of something.
Example Sentence: "The grand finale of the fashion show was the designer's exquisite piece-de-resistance—a stunning evening gown."
Word origin: The noun 'pièce de résistance' is a French phrase that translates to 'piece of resistance' in English.

Spell: pittance (noun) /ˈpɪt(ə)ns/
Definition: A small or inadequate amount of money or resources, often considered to be insufficient or barely enough to meet basic needs.
Example Sentence: "The workers were struggling to survive on the pittance they earned."
Word origin: The noun 'pittance' finds its etymological roots in the Old French word 'pité,' which means 'pity' or 'mercy.

Spell: prance (verb) /prɑːns/
Definition: To move in a lively, energetic and often playful manner, often with exaggerated steps and movements.
Example Sentence: "The ballet dancer will prance across the stage with elegance and poise."
Word origin: The verb 'prance' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'prauncen,' which meant 'to strut' or 'to show off proudly.

Spell: predominance (noun) /prɪˈdɒm ə nəns/
Definition: The state or condition of being dominant, prevalent, or having superior influence or control over others.
Example Sentence: "The team's skill and experience led to their predominance in the sports league."
Word origin: The noun 'predominance' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'prae,' meaning 'before,' and 'dominans,' which is the present participle of 'dominari,' meaning 'to rule' or 'to dominate.

Spell: preponderance (noun) /priˈpɑndrəns/
Definition: The state or quality of being greater in number, quantity, or importance.
Example Sentence: "The jury made their decision based on the preponderance of facts presented."
Word origin: The noun 'preponderance' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: protuberance (noun) /proʊˈtu bər əns/
Definition: A noticeable or prominent bulge, projection, or swelling that extends outward from a surface.
Example Sentence: "The artist meticulously sculpted the protuberances on the statue's face, adding depth and character."
Word origin: The noun 'protuberance' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'protuberantia,' which is derived from 'pro,' meaning 'forward' or 'forth,' and 'tuber,' meaning 'a swelling' or 'a lump.

Spell: provenance (noun) /ˈprɒvɪnəns/
Definition: The origin or history of an object, artwork, or historical artifact.
Example Sentence: "The provenance of the rare manuscript is shrouded in mystery and controversy."
Word origin: The noun 'provenance' has a rich etymology with roots in the French language.

Spell: radiance (noun) /ˈreɪ di əns/
Definition: A quality or state of emitting light, brightness, or glowing energy.
Example Sentence: "Her smile had a warm radiance that brightened the room."
Word origin: The noun 'radiance' derives its etymology from the Latin word 'radiantia,' which is the neuter plural form of 'radians,' the present participle of the verb 'radiare,' meaning 'to shine' or 'to emit rays.

Spell: reconnaissance (noun) /rɪˈkɒnɪs(ə)ns/
Definition: The act of gathering information or intelligence about a particular area, group, or situation, often in preparation for some future action.
Example Sentence: "A reconnaissance drone provided crucial information about the disaster's impact."
Word origin: The noun 'reconnaissance' has its etymological roots in French.

Spell: remittance (noun) /rɪˈmɪt(ə)ns/
Definition: A sum of money sent or transferred, typically from one individual or entity to another, often across geographical distances.
Example Sentence: "The company sent a timely remittance to cover the outstanding invoice."
Word origin: The noun 'remittance' has its etymological origins in Latin and Old French.

Spell: renaissance (noun) /rɪˈneɪs(ə)ns/
Definition: A revitalization or revival of a particular aspect, idea, movement, or culture.
Example Sentence: "Smartphones brought about a renaissance in information access."
Word origin: The noun 'renaissance' has its etymological roots in French and Italian.

Spell: repugnance (noun) /rɪˈpʌg nəns/
Definition: A strong feeling of disgust, aversion, or intense dislike towards something.
Example Sentence: "The repugnance in his voice was palpable when he spoke about corruption."
Word origin: The noun 'repugnance' traces its origins to the Latin word 'repugnantia,' which can be dissected etymologically.

Spell: resistance (noun) /rɪˈzɪst(ə)ns/
Definition: The act of opposing or refusing to comply with a particular demand, rule, or authority.
Example Sentence: "She joined the resistance movement to fight against the dictatorship."
Word origin: The noun 'resistance' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'resistentia,' which is formed from 'resistere,' a verb that combines 're,' meaning 'back' or 'against,' and 'sistere,' meaning 'to stand.

Spell: romance (noun) /roʊˈmæns/
Definition: A state or experience characterized by intense emotions, enchantment, and a sense of wonderment in the realm of affection and relationships.
Example Sentence: "The movie was a heartwarming romance that left the audience teary-eyed."
Word origin: The noun 'romance' carries an etymology that is steeped in a sense of intense emotions and enchantment.

Spell: semblance (noun) /ˈsɛmbləns/
Definition: The outward appearance or perception of something, often in contrast to the reality or truth.
Example Sentence: "Her smile gave a semblance of happiness, but her eyes told a different story."
Word origin: The noun 'semblance' traces its origins to the Old French word 'semblance,' which means 'appearance' or 'semblance.

Spell: severance (noun) /ˈsɛv(ə)r(ə)ns/
Definition: The act of separating or cutting off something from a larger whole.
Example Sentence: "Following the company's merger, employees anxiously awaited news of their severance packages and job security."
Word origin: The noun 'severance' has its etymology rooted in Latin.

Spell: stance (noun) /stæns/
Definition: A person's or an entity's position, attitude, or viewpoint on a particular issue, topic, or matter.
Example Sentence: "She shifted her stance slightly to maintain her balance."
Word origin: The noun 'stance' has its etymological origins in Middle English and, before that, Old French.

Spell: sustenance (noun) /ˈsʌstɪnəns/
Definition: Food and drink that is necessary for maintaining life and health.
Example Sentence: "The farmer worked hard to provide sustenance for his family and community."
Word origin: The noun 'sustenance' has its etymological origins in Latin and Old French.

Spell: temperance (noun) /ˈtɛmp(ə)r(ə)ns/
Definition: The practice of moderation or self-control, particularly in relation to pleasure and desires.
Example Sentence: "Temperance is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle."
Word origin: The noun 'temperance' has its etymological origins in Latin and Middle English.

Spell: tolerance (noun) /tɒlərəns/
Definition: The willingness and ability to accept and respect differences, opinions, beliefs, or behaviors of others, especially when they differ from one's own.
Example Sentence: "The classroom encouraged a culture of tolerance and respect for all students."
Word origin: The noun 'tolerance' has its roots in the Latin word 'tolerantia,' which means endurance or forbearance.

Spell: utterance (noun) /ˈʌt(ə)rəns/
Definition: The act of speaking, making vocal sounds, or expressing thoughts, ideas, or words through speech.
Example Sentence: "His musical utterance touched the deepest emotions of the audience."
Word origin: The noun 'utterance' has its etymology rooted in the Old English word 'ūtian,' which means 'to put out' or 'to emit.

Spell: vengeance (noun) /ˈvɛn dʒəns/
Definition: The act of inflicting harm, punishment, or retribution upon someone as a response to a perceived wrong or injustice.
Example Sentence: "The film's plot revolved around a tale of vengeance and redemption."
Word origin: The noun 'vengeance' finds its etymological roots in Latin and Old French.