English to English Dictionary

Rectrix

One of the large tail feathers of a bird that direct its flight, corresponding to the rudder of an aircraft.

Recusant

A person who refuses to submit to an authority or comply with a regulation, especially a religious one.

Redound

To have an effect or result, especially in a positive manner.

Reductionism

The practice of analyzing and describing a complex phenomenon in terms of its simple or fundamental constituents, especially when this is held to provide a sufficient explanation.

Reductivism

The practice of reducing complex ideas, systems, or phenomena to simple terms or fundamental underlying components.

Refoulement

The forcible return of refugees or asylum seekers to a country where they are liable to face persecution, torture, or human rights abuses.

Refractoriness

The quality or state of being stubborn, obstinate, or unyielding to control, guidance, or treatment.

Refractory

Resistant to heat or melting; capable of withstanding extremely high temperatures without suffering degradation.

Refugia

Geographic regions or habitats that have endured environmental changes and consequently maintained organisms, especially during periods of widespread extinction or glaciation.

Reinscribe

To write, engrave, or print something again or anew.

Religious disestablishment

The act or process of depriving a church of its status as the national or official religion of a state.

Reliquary

A container or shrine for holding or displaying sacred relics, such as the bones, clothing, or other objects associated with a saint or martyr.