bead 1 of 2

noun

ˈbēd How to pronounce bead (audio)
Definition of beadnext
as in glob
the quantity of fluid that falls naturally in one rounded mass squeeze a bead or two of glue onto the seam

Synonyms & Similar Words

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bead

2 of 2

verb

as in to pearl

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bead
Noun
This project typically involves removing the lid handles and connecting two lids with a central support made from materials such as wooden beads, dowels, or other sturdy pieces. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 5 Aug. 2026 Diamond rings and Baily's beads These are trademarks of totality, but require care to see. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 3 Aug. 2026
Verb
The protective barrier causes water to bead up and roll off, preventing mineral deposits and stains. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 30 May 2026 Enroll in a Craft Class Many crafts stores offer hands-on activities for kids like scrapbooking, box decorating, bead stringing, pottery, and more. — Robin Westen, Parents, 21 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for bead
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bead
  1. glob
  2. pearl
  3. droplet
  4. pellet
  5. drip
  6. lump
  7. drop
  8. sphere
Noun
  • Throughout the week, nightstands tend to collect books, cups, charging cords, and the occasional water ring and glob of lotion residue, too.
    — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 16 June 2026
  • Instead of being rolled, the enchiladas are stacked with slivers of tortilla, then topped with the familiar glob of cheese.
    — Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 June 2026
Definition of glob
Verb
  • The discovery and export of hydrocarbons in the 20th century transformed relatively small maritime trading and pearling societies into high-income states integrated into global energy markets.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Mar. 2026
  • In the summer of 2024, while visiting my grandmother in China, my husband gave me a pearl ring and asked if we could be pearled.
    — Shayla Love, New Yorker, 25 Feb. 2026
Definition of pearl
Noun
  • Its droplets contain proteins, water, salts and small molecules that help the adhesive remain soft and tacky.
    — Aliasger K. Salem, The Conversation, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Rain softly pounding the ground played over the speakers as droplets filled the stage.
    — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of droplet
Verb
  • The cold air is the same, and the snow pellets my cap, sifts under my collar.
    — Jonny Diamond, Literary Hub, 27 May 2025
  • The technique has produced delicious, consistent results from campsites in Big Sur, California, and Baja, Mexico—and in everything from frying oil to pellet grills to standard home ovens.
    — Wes Siler, Outside Online, 25 Nov. 2024
Definition of pellet
Noun
  • Tubman is all but indecipherable, roughly limned with white paint and covered by red, black, and yellow smudges and drips.
    — Zachary Fine, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Reminiscent of an old-time diner, Rodriguez said there will be traditional drip coffee, which a server can easily refill.
    — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of drip
Verb
  • They were also lumped in with ska and reggae acts like the Slackers, Agent 99, and 32 Tribes.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 7 Aug. 2026
  • And so the homicide became a misdemeanor, lumped alongside petty theft and drug possession cases.
    — Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of lump
Noun
  • The goal is of course, to get more long-term LA Metro riders, but also by reducing cars on the road, traffic flow improves and vehicle emissions drop, said LA Metro.
    — Steve Scauzillo, Daily News, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Nonfarm payrolls unexpectedly declined in July, falling by 23,000 amid a drop of 53,000 government jobs.
    — Oliver Renick, CNBC, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of drop
Verb
  • The night culminated with a countdown as a glowing geodesic sphere 12 feet in diameter and weighing almost six tons descended from its lofty perch atop One Times Square.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 1 Jan. 2023
  • But with those four, Grande was able to establish her credibility in the fragrance sphere early in her music career.
    — Emily Jensen, Harper's BAZAAR, 16 Nov. 2022
Definition of sphere

Browse Nearby Words

beacons
bead
beaded
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Cite this Entry

“Bead.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bead. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on bead

Nglish: Translation of bead for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bead

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