Oxford 3000™ Words Starting with P

Oxford 3000 Words Starting with P – Complete List with Meanings & Quizzes

Explore all Oxford 3000 words starting with P in this clean, structured list. These P-words belong to Oxford’s essential vocabulary set—high-frequency terms that strengthen academic reading, exam preparation, and everyday English communication. Each word includes a short, clear meaning for fast learning and effective revision.

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Total Words 263 core words
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Why the Oxford 3000™ Words Are Crucial for Academic and Test Success

The Oxford 3000™ consists of high-utility English words selected through linguistic analysis by Oxford University Press. Their consistent presence in academic materials, standardized tests, media, and real-world communication highlights their importance for vocabulary development.

This page compiles the complete set of Oxford 3000 words beginning with P. These words are widely used across textbooks, essays, analytical writing, news articles, and standardized exams—making them especially important for learners. Explore the concise meanings below, and connect these P-words with LVF’s quizzes, flashcards, and thematic vocabulary lists to build stronger long-term retention.

Words Starting with P

Browse all P-words from the Oxford 3000 list with short meanings.

pace noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): the speed at which something happens or moves.

Short meaning (verb): to walk back and forth because you are nervous or thinking.

Example: She walked at a fast pace.

pack verb / noun

Short meaning: to put things into a container or bag for travel or storage.

Example: I need to pack my suitcase for the trip.

package noun

Short meaning: an object wrapped or boxed for mailing or delivery.

Example: A package arrived for you today.

page noun

Short meaning: one side of a sheet in a book, notebook, or website.

Example: Turn to page 12.

pain noun

Short meaning: physical or emotional suffering or discomfort.

Example: She felt a sharp pain in her leg.

painful adjective

Short meaning: causing physical or emotional pain.

Example: It was a painful memory to talk about.

paint verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to apply color to a surface using a brush.

Short meaning (noun): a colored liquid used for decorating or creating art.

Example: They plan to paint the room blue.

painter noun

Short meaning: a person who paints walls or creates paintings as art.

Example: The painter finished the mural yesterday.

painting noun

Short meaning: a picture made using paint; the activity of applying paint.

Example: The museum displayed a famous painting.

pair noun

Short meaning: two things that are used or worn together; two people.

Example: I bought a new pair of shoes.

palace noun

Short meaning: a large, impressive home used by a king, queen, or other royalty.

Example: The palace attracts thousands of tourists.

pale adjective

Short meaning: having a light color or lacking normal skin color.

Example: She looked pale after being sick.

pan noun

Short meaning: a metal container used for cooking food.

Example: Heat the oil in the pan.

panel noun

Short meaning 1: a group of people who discuss or make decisions.

Short meaning 2: a flat piece of wood, metal, or plastic forming part of a surface.

Example: The panel chose the winner.

pants noun (plural)

Short meaning: a piece of clothing worn on the lower body.

Example: He bought new pants for work.

paper noun

Short meaning: thin material used for writing, printing, or wrapping.

Example: Please write your name on the paper.

parallel adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): lines or directions that stay the same distance apart.

Short meaning (noun): a similarity between two situations.

Example: The two roads run parallel.

parent noun

Short meaning: a mother or father.

Example: Parents want the best for their children.

park noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a public green area for recreation.

Short meaning (verb): to stop a vehicle and leave it in a place.

Example: Let's walk in the park.

parliament noun

Short meaning: the group of people elected to make laws for a country.

Example: The law was approved by parliament.

part noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a piece or section of something.

Short meaning (verb): to separate from someone or something.

Example: I read part of the book.

participate verb

Short meaning: to take part in an activity or event.

Example: Many students participate in sports.

particular adjective

Short meaning: specific or special, not general.

Example: Is there any particular reason you called?

particularly adverb

Short meaning: especially; more than usual.

Example: I’m particularly interested in this topic.

partly adverb

Short meaning: to some extent, but not completely.

Example: The plan was partly successful.

partner noun

Short meaning: someone you do something with, such as work, sports, or a relationship.

Example: She’s my business partner.

partnership noun

Short meaning: a relationship where two or more people work together, usually in business.

Example: The companies formed a partnership.

party noun

Short meaning 1: a social event or celebration.

Short meaning 2: a political group.

Example: We enjoyed the birthday party.

pass verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to go by something or succeed in an exam.

Short meaning (noun): a card or ticket allowing entry.

Example: She passed the test easily.

passage noun

Short meaning: a section of written text or a narrow path.

Example: Read the passage carefully.

passenger noun

Short meaning: someone who travels in a vehicle but is not driving.

Example: The bus had fifty passengers.

passing adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): happening quickly or briefly as something goes by.

Short meaning (noun): the act of going past or someone’s death.

Example: She made a passing remark.

passion noun

Short meaning: a strong feeling of love, enthusiasm, or excitement for something.

Example: He has a passion for music.

passport noun

Short meaning: an official document that allows you to travel to other countries.

Example: You must show your passport at the airport.

past noun / adj / prep / adv

Short meaning: the time before the present; earlier or previous.

Example: We often learn from the past.

path noun

Short meaning: a track or route for walking; a direction or way toward something.

Example: Follow the path through the forest.

patience noun

Short meaning: the ability to stay calm while waiting or dealing with difficulties.

Example: Teaching children requires patience.

patient noun / adjective

Short meaning (noun): someone receiving medical care.

Short meaning (adj): able to stay calm when waiting.

Example: The doctor spoke kindly to the patient.

pattern noun

Short meaning: a repeated design or a regular way something happens.

Example: She noticed a pattern in his behavior.

pause verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to stop for a short time.

Short meaning (noun): a short break or stop.

Example: He paused before answering.

pay verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to give money for goods or services.

Short meaning (noun): the money received for work.

Example: I need to pay the bill today.

pay back phrasal verb

Short meaning: to return money that was borrowed.

Example: She paid back the loan early.

payment noun

Short meaning: the act of giving money for something.

Example: Your payment has been received.

peace noun

Short meaning: a state of calm or no war and no violence.

Example: The country finally enjoyed peace.

peaceful adjective

Short meaning: calm and quiet; without violence.

Example: It’s a peaceful village.

peak noun / adj / verb

Short meaning (noun): the highest point of something.

Example: Traffic is heavy during peak hours.

pen noun

Short meaning: a tool used for writing with ink.

Example: She signed the letter with a pen.

penalty noun

Short meaning: a punishment or disadvantage for breaking a rule or law.

Example: The company paid a penalty for late payment.

pencil noun

Short meaning: a writing or drawing tool with graphite inside wood.

Example: Draw the picture with a pencil.

people noun (plural)

Short meaning: human beings; a group of persons.

Example: Many people attended the event.

pepper noun

Short meaning: a spice used to add flavor to food.

Example: Add some pepper to the soup.

per preposition

Short meaning: for each or according to a rate.

Example: The room costs $50 per night.

percent noun

Short meaning: one part in every hundred.

Example: Only five percent failed the test.

percentage noun

Short meaning: a part of a whole expressed as a percent.

Example: A high percentage of students passed.

perfect adjective

Short meaning: completely without mistakes; excellent.

Example: The weather was perfect today.

perfectly adverb

Short meaning: completely or in a perfect way.

Example: Everything worked perfectly.

perform verb

Short meaning: to do a task or to act/sing/dance in front of people.

Example: The singer performed on stage.

performance noun

Short meaning: how well someone does something, or a show in front of an audience.

Example: Her performance was excellent.

performer noun

Short meaning: someone who acts, sings, dances, or entertains an audience.

Example: The performers received loud applause.

perhaps adverb

Short meaning: maybe; possibly.

Example: Perhaps he will join us later.

period noun

Short meaning: a length of time; or a punctuation mark (.).

Example: The project will take a long period to complete.

permanent adjective

Short meaning: lasting for a long time or forever; not temporary.

Example: She found a permanent job.

permission noun

Short meaning: official approval to do something.

Example: You need permission to enter this area.

permit verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to allow something to happen.

Short meaning (noun): an official document giving permission.

Example: Smoking is not permitted here.

person noun

Short meaning: a human being; an individual.

Example: Only one person was injured.

personal adjective

Short meaning: relating to or belonging to one person.

Example: Please keep your personal items safe.

personality noun

Short meaning: the qualities that make a person unique.

Example: She has a warm and friendly personality.

personally adverb

Short meaning: in a personal opinion or done by oneself.

Example: Personally, I think it's a great idea.

perspective noun

Short meaning: a particular way of thinking about something.

Example: Try to see the problem from a different perspective.

persuade verb

Short meaning: to convince someone to do or believe something.

Example: He persuaded me to join the team.

pet noun

Short meaning: an animal kept at home for pleasure.

Example: They have a pet dog.

phase noun

Short meaning: a stage in a process or development.

Example: The project is in its final phase.

philosophy noun

Short meaning: the study of ideas about knowledge, life, and meaning.

Example: His philosophy focuses on kindness.

phone noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a device used for calling or texting.

Short meaning (verb): to call someone by phone.

Example: I’ll phone you later.

photo noun

Short meaning: a picture taken with a camera.

Example: That’s a beautiful photo.

photocopy noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a copy of a document made by a machine.

Short meaning (verb): to make a copy using a photocopier.

Example: Please bring a photocopy of your ID.

photograph noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a picture created using a camera.

Short meaning (verb): to take a picture of someone or something.

Example: She photographed the skyline.

photographer noun

Short meaning: a person who takes photographs professionally or as a hobby.

Example: The photographer asked us to smile.

photography noun

Short meaning: the art or practice of taking and processing photographs.

Example: She studies photography at college.

phrase noun

Short meaning: a small group of words with a particular meaning.

Example: “Take care” is a common phrase.

physical adjective

Short meaning: related to the body or to material things.

Example: Physical exercise is important for health.

physically adverb

Short meaning: in a way related to the body, not the mind.

Example: She is physically very strong.

physics noun

Short meaning: the science of matter, energy, motion, and forces.

Example: Physics explains how the physical world works.

piano noun

Short meaning: a large musical instrument with black and white keys that you press to make sounds.

Example: She plays the piano beautifully.

pick verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to choose or select something.

Short meaning (noun): a choice or selection.

Example: Pick your favorite color.

picture noun

Short meaning: an image made by drawing, painting, or taking a photograph.

Example: That picture hangs in the living room.

piece noun

Short meaning: a small part of something larger.

Example: Can I have another piece of cake?

pig noun

Short meaning: a farm animal kept for its meat (pork).

Example: The farmer raises pigs and cows.

pile noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a group of things lying on top of each other.

Short meaning (verb): to collect or place things in a heap.

Example: Clothes were piled on the bed.

pill noun

Short meaning: a small piece of medicine that you swallow.

Example: Take one pill after meals.

pilot noun

Short meaning: a person who flies an aircraft.

Example: The pilot landed the plane safely.

pin noun

Short meaning: a thin metal object used to fasten or attach things.

Example: She used a pin to fix her dress.

pink noun / adjective

Short meaning: a light red color.

Example: She wore a pink dress.

pint noun

Short meaning: a unit for measuring liquids, especially beer or milk.

Example: He ordered a pint of beer.

pipe noun

Short meaning: a long tube that carries liquid or gas.

Example: The water pipe burst last night.

pitch noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a sports field or the level of sound.

Short meaning (verb): to throw something or present an idea.

Example: The salesman pitched a new idea.

place noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a specific area or position.

Short meaning (verb): to put something in a position.

Example: This is a quiet place to study.

plain adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): simple or clear, without decoration.

Short meaning (noun): a large flat area of land.

Example: She wore a plain white shirt.

plan noun / verb

Short meaning: a detailed idea about what to do; to decide or arrange in advance.

Example: We planned a trip to Paris.

plane noun

Short meaning: a vehicle with wings that flies through the air.

Example: The plane landed on time.

planet noun

Short meaning: a large round object that moves around a star such as the Sun.

Example: Earth is the third planet from the Sun.

planning noun

Short meaning: the process of making detailed arrangements for something.

Example: Good planning leads to success.

plant noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a living thing that grows in the ground.

Short meaning (verb): to put seeds or plants in the ground to grow.

Example: She planted roses in the garden.

plastic noun / adjective

Short meaning: a light, artificial material that can be shaped and used for many purposes.

Example: The bottles are made of plastic.

plate noun

Short meaning: a flat dish used for serving or eating food.

Example: She placed the cookies on a plate.

platform noun

Short meaning: a raised area for people to stand on, or a digital service base.

Example: The train left from platform 5.

play verb / noun

Short meaning: to take part in a game or perform for enjoyment.

Example: The children played football outside.

player noun

Short meaning: someone who plays a sport, game, or musical instrument.

Example: He’s a famous basketball player.

pleasant adjective

Short meaning: enjoyable, nice, or giving a good feeling.

Example: We had a very pleasant evening together.

please verb

Short meaning: to make someone happy or satisfied; also used in polite requests.

Example: Please close the door.

pleased adjective

Short meaning: happy or satisfied with something.

Example: She was pleased with her test results.

pleasure noun

Short meaning: a feeling of enjoyment or happiness.

Example: Meeting you was a great pleasure.

pitch noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a sports field or the level of a sound.

Short meaning (verb): to throw something or present an idea.

Example: The team practiced on the football pitch.

place noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a particular area or location.

Short meaning (verb): to put something somewhere.

Example: This is a great place to relax.

plain adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): simple and without decoration; clear and easy to understand.

Short meaning (noun): a large flat area of land.

Example: She prefers plain black coffee.

plan noun / verb

Short meaning: a detailed idea of what you want to do; to arrange something in advance.

Example: They planned a holiday for next month.

plane noun

Short meaning: an aircraft that flies through the air.

Example: The plane landed smoothly.

planet noun

Short meaning: a large object in space that moves around a star.

Example: Earth is the only planet known to support life.

planning noun

Short meaning: the process of organizing and making decisions about something in advance.

Example: Good planning saves time and money.

plant noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a living thing that grows in the ground.

Short meaning (verb): to put seeds or plants into the soil so they can grow.

Example: They planted trees along the road.

plastic noun / adjective

Short meaning: a light, artificial material used to make many everyday objects.

Example: These cups are made of plastic.

plate noun

Short meaning: a flat, usually round dish used for serving food.

Example: She placed the vegetables on a clean plate.

platform noun

Short meaning: a raised level surface; also a system or base for technology or ideas.

Example: The train will leave from platform 4.

play verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to take part in a game or activity for enjoyment.

Short meaning (noun): a theatrical performance.

Example: Children love to play outside.

player noun

Short meaning: someone who takes part in a game, sport, or musical performance.

Example: He is the best player on the team.

pleasant adjective

Short meaning: enjoyable, nice, or giving a good feeling.

Example: We spent a pleasant afternoon at the park.

please verb

Short meaning: to make someone happy or to ask politely.

Example: Please hand me the book.

pleased adjective

Short meaning: happy or satisfied with something.

Example: She was pleased with the results.

pleasure noun

Short meaning: a feeling of enjoyment or happiness.

Example: It's a pleasure to meet you.

plenty pronoun / adverb

Short meaning: a large amount; more than enough.

Example: We have plenty of time.

plot noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): the main events of a story.

Short meaning (verb): to secretly plan something.

Example: The movie has a very interesting plot.

plug noun

Short meaning: a device that connects electrical equipment to a power supply.

Example: The plug doesn’t fit this socket.

plug in phrasal verb

Short meaning: to connect a device to the electricity supply.

Example: Plug in the charger before using the laptop.

plus prep / conj / adj

Short meaning: added to; in addition to something.

Example: Two plus two equals four.

p.m. abbrev.

Short meaning: used to refer to time after midday.

Example: The class starts at 3 p.m.

pocket noun

Short meaning: a small pouch sewn into clothes for carrying small items.

Example: He kept the keys in his pocket.

poem noun

Short meaning: a piece of writing arranged in lines that often rhyme or express emotions.

Example: She wrote a short poem about nature.

poetry noun

Short meaning: poems in general, seen as a type of literature.

Example: She loves reading modern poetry.

point noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): an idea, reason, or mark showing something important.

Short meaning (verb): to show something by using your finger.

Example: He made a good point during the meeting.

pointed adjective

Short meaning: having a sharp tip; also meaning direct or critical in speech.

Example: She gave him a pointed remark.

poison noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a substance that can harm or kill.

Short meaning (verb): to give someone a harmful substance.

Example: Some plants contain strong poison.

poisonous adjective

Short meaning: containing poison; able to cause harm or illness.

Example: Some mushrooms are poisonous.

pole noun

Short meaning: a long, thin object used to support or carry something.

Example: The tent is held up by a central pole.

police noun (plural)

Short meaning: the people whose job is to protect the public and enforce laws.

Example: The police arrived within minutes.

policy noun

Short meaning: a set of rules or a plan of action adopted by an organization or government.

Example: The school has a strict attendance policy.

polish verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to make something smooth and shiny.

Short meaning (noun): a substance used to make things shiny.

Example: He polished his shoes before the meeting.

polite adjective

Short meaning: behaving in a respectful and considerate way.

Example: She is always polite to customers.

political adjective

Short meaning: related to government, public affairs, or political ideas.

Example: The country is facing major political changes.

politically adverb

Short meaning: in a way that relates to politics or government.

Example: The issue is politically sensitive.

politician noun

Short meaning: a person actively involved in politics, often holding elected office.

Example: She wants to become a politician in the future.

politics noun (uncountable)

Short meaning: the activities, ideas, or policies related to governing a country or group.

Example: Politics affects every part of daily life.

pollution noun

Short meaning: the process of making air, water, or land dirty and harmful.

Example: Air pollution is a serious problem in many big cities.

pool noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a small area of water, especially for swimming.

Short meaning (verb): to collect money or resources from different people to use together.

Example: They swam in the hotel pool.

poor adjective

Short meaning: having little money; also used for something of low quality or not good.

Example: Many families in the area are very poor.

pop verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to make a short, quick sound, or to move quickly and suddenly.

Short meaning (noun): a short, sharp sound; also a short form of “pop music”.

Example: The balloon suddenly popped.

population noun

Short meaning: the number of people living in a particular place.

Example: The city has a population of over one million.

port noun

Short meaning: a town or place where ships load and unload goods or passengers.

Example: The ship arrived at the port early in the morning.

pose verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to sit or stand in a particular position, especially for a photo; also to create a problem or difficulty.

Short meaning (noun): a particular position of the body for a photo or drawing.

Example: The new rules pose a challenge for students.

position noun

Short meaning: the place where something is; also a job or role, or a person’s opinion on an issue.

Example: He applied for a teaching position at the university.

positive adjective

Short meaning: hopeful and confident; also showing a good or definite result.

Example: Try to stay positive during difficult times.

possess verb

Short meaning: to have or own something, especially something valuable or a special quality.

Example: She possesses great musical talent.

possession noun

Short meaning: something that you own; also the state of having or controlling something.

Example: She lost all her possessions in the fire.

possibility noun

Short meaning: a chance that something may happen or be true.

Example: There is a possibility of rain tonight.

possible adjective

Short meaning: able to be done or achieved; may be true.

Example: It’s possible that she will arrive early.

possibly adverb

Short meaning: used when something might happen or be true.

Example: She will possibly call later.

post noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): letters and parcels sent by mail; also a job or position.

Short meaning (verb): to send or publish something, especially online or by mail.

Example: She posted a photo on social media.

post office noun

Short meaning: a place where you can send letters and parcels or buy stamps.

Example: I went to the post office to mail a package.

pot noun

Short meaning: a deep round container used for cooking or storing things.

Example: She cooked the soup in a large pot.

potato noun

Short meaning: a round vegetable that grows in the ground and is used in many dishes.

Example: She baked potatoes for dinner.

potential adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): possible in the future; having ability that may develop.

Short meaning (noun): the ability for something to develop or succeed.

Example: She has great potential as a writer.

pound noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): a unit of money in the UK; also a unit of weight.

Short meaning (verb): to hit something hard again and again.

Example: He bought the book for five pounds.

pour verb

Short meaning: to make liquid flow from a container.

Example: She poured the tea into the cup.

poverty noun

Short meaning: the state of being very poor and lacking basic needs.

Example: Many countries struggle with extreme poverty.

powder noun

Short meaning: a dry substance made of very small pieces.

Example: Add a spoon of chocolate powder to the milk.

power noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): the ability to control people or things; also electricity.

Short meaning (verb): to supply something with energy.

Example: The storm cut off power for two hours.

powerful adjective

Short meaning: having great strength, influence, or effect.

Example: She gave a powerful speech.

practical adjective

Short meaning: useful and suitable for real situations; based on action rather than ideas.

Example: She has practical skills in cooking and budgeting.

practically adverb

Short meaning 1: almost or very nearly.

Short meaning 2: in a useful or realistic way.

Example: The room was practically empty.

practice noun / verb

Short meaning (noun): the act of doing something regularly to improve skill.

Short meaning (verb): to do an activity again and again to improve at it.

Example: You need daily practice to learn a language well.

praise noun / verb

Short meaning (verb): to say good things about someone or something.

Short meaning (noun): words that show approval or admiration.

Example: The teacher praised the students for their work.

prayer noun

Short meaning: words spoken to God or a higher power; the act of praying.

Example: They said a prayer before dinner.

precise adjective

Short meaning: exact and accurate in every detail.

Example: She gave a precise answer to the question.

precisely adverb

Short meaning: exactly and clearly; with accuracy.

Example: The meeting starts at 9 a.m. precisely.

predict verb

Short meaning: to say what you think will happen in the future.

Example: Experts predict higher temperatures this summer.

prefer verb

Short meaning: to like something more than something else.

Example: I prefer tea to coffee.

preference noun

Short meaning: a greater liking for one option over another.

Example: She has a preference for quiet places.

pregnant adjective

Short meaning: having a baby developing inside the body.

Example: She is six months pregnant.

premises noun (plural)

Short meaning: the buildings and land that a business or organization uses.

Example: Smoking is not allowed on the premises.

preparation noun

Short meaning: the process of getting something ready.

Example: Proper preparation is important for success.

prepare verb

Short meaning: to make something or yourself ready.

Example: She prepared a meal for her guests.

prepared adjective

Short meaning: ready for something; having made arrangements in advance.

Example: They were prepared for the exam.

presence noun

Short meaning: the state of being in a place; being with someone.

Example: Her presence made everyone feel safe.

present adj / noun / verb

Short meaning (adj): happening now; in a place.

Short meaning (noun): a gift.

Short meaning (verb): to show or give something.

Example: All members were present at the meeting.

presentation noun

Short meaning: a talk or display that explains something to others.

Example: She gave a presentation on climate change.

preserve verb

Short meaning: to protect something and keep it in good condition.

Example: We must preserve our natural resources.

president noun

Short meaning: the elected leader of a country or organization.

Example: The president announced a new policy.

press verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to push something firmly.

Short meaning (noun): newspapers, journalists, and media.

Example: Press the button to start.

pressure noun

Short meaning: the force applied to something; stress or demands.

Example: She is under pressure at work.

presumably adverb

Short meaning: probably; it is reasonable to think so.

Example: Presumably, he will arrive soon.

pretend verb

Short meaning: to act as if something is true when it is not.

Example: Children like to pretend they are superheroes.

pretty adj / adv

Short meaning (adj): attractive in a delicate way.

Short meaning (adv): fairly; quite.

Example: The garden looks pretty.

prevent verb

Short meaning: to stop something from happening.

Example: Exercise can prevent many illnesses.

previous adjective

Short meaning: happening or existing before the present time.

Example: I read the previous chapter yesterday.

previously adverb

Short meaning: before now; at an earlier time.

Example: She had previously worked in marketing.

price noun

Short meaning: the amount of money needed to buy something.

Example: The price of food has increased.

pride noun

Short meaning: a feeling of satisfaction in your achievements or qualities.

Example: She takes pride in her work.

priest noun

Short meaning: a person who performs religious duties in a church.

Example: The priest led the ceremony.

primarily adverb

Short meaning: mainly; for the most part.

Example: The course is primarily for beginners.

primary adjective

Short meaning: most important; main.

Example: Safety is our primary concern.

prime minister noun

Short meaning: the leader of the government in some countries.

Example: The prime minister announced new plans.

prince noun

Short meaning: the son of a king or queen.

Example: The prince visited the city.

princess noun

Short meaning: the daughter of a king or queen.

Example: The princess opened the new school.

principal noun / adjective

Short meaning (noun): the head of a school.

Short meaning (adj): main; most important.

Example: The principal welcomed the students.

principle noun

Short meaning: a basic rule or belief that guides behavior.

Example: She acts on strong moral principles.

print verb / noun

Short meaning (verb): to produce text or pictures on paper.

Short meaning (noun): text or pictures produced on paper.

Example: Please print the document.

printer noun

Short meaning: a machine that prints documents or images.

Example: The printer is out of ink.

prior adjective

Short meaning: existing or happening before something else.

Example: You need prior permission to enter.

priority noun

Short meaning: something that is more important than other things.

Example: Safety is our top priority.

prison noun

Short meaning: a place where criminals are kept as punishment.

Example: He spent five years in prison.

prisoner noun

Short meaning: a person who is kept in prison.

Example: The prisoner was released yesterday.

private adjective

Short meaning: meant for one person or a small group; not public.

Example: This is a private conversation.

prize noun

Short meaning: something you win for doing well in a competition.

Example: She won first prize.

probably adverb

Short meaning: likely to happen; more than 50% chance.

Example: He will probably come later.

problem noun

Short meaning: something difficult that needs to be solved.

Example: We have a problem with the machine.

procedure noun

Short meaning: an official or correct way of doing something.

Example: Follow the safety procedure.

proceed verb

Short meaning: to continue or go ahead with something.

Example: Please proceed with your work.

process noun

Short meaning: a series of actions to achieve a result.

Example: Learning a language is a slow process.

produce verb

Short meaning: to make or create something.

Example: The factory produces cars.

producer noun

Short meaning: a person or company that makes goods, films, or music.

Example: The producer funded the movie.

product noun

Short meaning: something that is made or produced to be sold.

Example: This product is very popular.

production noun

Short meaning: the process of making goods or creating something.

Example: Production increased this year.

profession noun

Short meaning: a job that needs special training or skills.

Example: Teaching is a respected profession.

professional adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): relating to a job that requires skill and training.

Short meaning (noun): a skilled person in a particular job.

Example: She gave professional advice.

professor noun

Short meaning: a senior teacher at a university.

Example: The professor explained the theory.

profile noun

Short meaning: a short description of someone or something.

Example: The website shows your public profile.

profit noun

Short meaning: money gained in business after costs.

Example: The company made a big profit this year.

progress noun

Short meaning: improvement or development over time.

Example: She is making good progress in English.

project noun

Short meaning: a planned piece of work.

Example: They are working on a new project.

promise noun / verb

Short meaning (n): a statement that you will definitely do something.

Short meaning (v): to say you will do something.

Example: She promised to help.

promote verb

Short meaning: to support something or move someone to a higher position.

Example: The company promoted her to manager.

promotion noun

Short meaning: a higher job position or activity to advertise something.

Example: She received a promotion last month.

prompt adjective

Short meaning: done quickly and without delay.

Example: The response was prompt and helpful.

promptly adverb

Short meaning: quickly and without waiting.

Example: She replied promptly.

pronounce verb

Short meaning: to say a word in the correct way.

Example: How do you pronounce this word?

pronunciation noun

Short meaning: the way a word is spoken.

Example: English pronunciation can be difficult.

proof noun

Short meaning: information that shows something is true.

Example: Do you have proof of your identity?

proper adjective

Short meaning: correct, suitable, or right for a situation.

Example: Wear proper shoes for running.

property noun

Short meaning: things you own; land or buildings.

Example: The property belongs to her family.

proportion noun

Short meaning: the amount of one part compared to the whole.

Example: A large proportion of students passed the exam.

proposal noun

Short meaning: a formal suggestion or plan.

Example: The team discussed a proposal for a new project.

propose verb

Short meaning: to suggest a plan or idea for people to consider.

Example: I propose we meet again next week.

prospect noun

Short meaning: the possibility that something will happen in the future.

Example: She was excited by the prospect of studying abroad.

protect verb

Short meaning: to keep someone or something safe from harm.

Example: Sunscreen helps protect your skin.

protection noun

Short meaning: the act of keeping someone or something safe.

Example: The law offers protection to workers.

protest noun / verb

Short meaning (n): an action showing strong disagreement.

Short meaning (v): to show that you strongly disagree with something.

Example: People protested against the new law.

proud adjective

Short meaning: feeling happy about your own or someone else’s success.

Example: Her parents were proud of her results.

proudly adverb

Short meaning: in a way that shows you are pleased and confident.

Example: He proudly showed his award.

prove verb

Short meaning: to show that something is true by using facts or evidence.

Example: The data proved that the method works.

provide verb

Short meaning: to give something that is needed.

Example: The school provides free lunches.

provided conjunction

Short meaning: used to say that something will happen only if a condition is met.

Example: You can go out, provided you finish your homework.

pt. abbreviation

Short meaning: written abbreviation for “point” or “pint,” used in measurements or printing.

Example: The font size should be 12 pt.

public adjective / noun

Short meaning (adj): related to or open to all people.

Short meaning (n): ordinary people in general.

Example: The report was made available to the public.

publication noun

Short meaning: a book, magazine, or other printed work made available to the public.

Example: The publication received positive reviews.

publicity noun

Short meaning: attention given to someone or something by the media.

Example: The movie got a lot of publicity before its release.

publish verb

Short meaning: to make a book, article, or report available for people to read.

Example: The study was published in a scientific journal.

publishing noun

Short meaning: the business of producing books, magazines, or other printed materials.

Example: She works in the publishing industry.

pull verb / noun

Short meaning (v): to move something toward yourself.

Short meaning (n): an act of pulling.

Example: Pull the door to open it.

punch verb / noun

Short meaning (v): to hit someone or something with your fist.

Short meaning (n): a strong hit with the fist.

Example: He punched the bag during training.

punish verb

Short meaning: to make someone suffer because they have done something wrong.

Example: The school punished students who broke the rules.

punishment noun

Short meaning: a penalty given when someone has done something wrong.

Example: The punishment for theft can be severe.

purchase verb / noun

Short meaning (v): to buy something.

Short meaning (n): something you have bought.

Example: She purchased a new laptop.

pure adjective

Short meaning: not mixed with anything else; clean and natural.

Example: The lake has pure, clear water.

purely adverb

Short meaning: only; completely; simply.

Example: The decision was made purely for safety reasons.

purple adjective / noun

Short meaning: a color that is a mix of red and blue.

Example: She wore a bright purple dress.

purpose noun

Short meaning: the reason why something is done.

Example: The purpose of the meeting was to plan the event.

pursue verb

Short meaning: to try to achieve or follow something over time.

Example: She decided to pursue a career in medicine.

push verb / noun

Short meaning (v): to move something away from yourself by applying force.

Short meaning (n): an act of pushing.

Example: Push the door to close it.

put verb

Short meaning: to move something into a specific position or place.

Example: Put your phone on the table.

Oxford 3000 Words Starting with P – Interactive Practice Quiz

Test your understanding of the Oxford 3000 words starting with P with this interactive quiz. Each question is based on the P-word list above, helping you practice meanings, parts of speech, and real-world usage. Ideal for quick revision, daily vocabulary drills, and preparation for SAT, GRE, GMAT, IELTS, and TOEFL.

Question 1 / 10 · Score: 0

Well done! Consistent practice with Oxford 3000 words starting with P strengthens your vocabulary foundation and enhances comprehension across academic and everyday contexts. If any words seemed challenging, review the list above—or continue exploring the next letters in the Oxford 3000 A–Z series. Keep learning with more quizzes and vocabulary tools on LearnVocabularyFree.com.



Oxford 3000 Words Beginning with P – FAQs

Quick, clear answers to help you understand and use the “P-words” section of the Oxford 3000 list on LearnVocabularyFree.com.

What is included in the Oxford 3000 Words Starting with P?

This page lists all Oxford 3000 vocabulary items beginning with the letter P, each paired with a clear, simple meaning. It serves as a helpful reference for essential “P-words” that appear in exams, academic texts, and everyday English.

Why are P-words important for my English vocabulary?

Many commonly used words related to plans, processes, problems, possibilities, progress, and people start with P. Learning these P-words strengthens reading comprehension and improves clarity in written and spoken communication.

Are these P-words enough for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or SAT?

These P-words cover essential Oxford 3000 vocabulary commonly found in exam passages. For high scores, learners should combine this list with LVF’s exam-focused vocabulary sets and practice quizzes that show how P-words appear in real test contexts.

How often do you update the Oxford 3000 P-words list?

We regularly review and refine this section to improve meanings, adjust wording, and connect the page to new learning tools on LVF. Updates ensure the P-words list stays accurate and helpful for all learners.

What is the best way to study these P-words on LVF?

Begin by scanning the list and identifying unfamiliar P-words. Review their meanings regularly, and use LVF’s Oxford 3000 quiz modes— Word → Meaning and Meaning → Word—to build confidence, accuracy, and long-term recall.

Official Oxford 3000 Resources

LearnVocabularyFree.com is an independent learning platform. For the original Oxford 3000™ and Oxford 5000™ wordlists—including official downloadable resources—visit the Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries site:

Visit Oxford Wordlists

This LVF hub provides short meanings, filters, and exam-focused practice. For authentic definitions, pronunciation, and official PDFs, always refer to Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries .

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