don
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɒn/
KK: /dɑn/
noun
Definition
A title used for an important person, especially a university professor or a leader in organized crime. It can also refer to a courtesy title for a man in Spanish-speaking countries.
Example
The don of the university was known for his groundbreaking research.
Conversation
Have you met the new don at the university?
Not yet, but I heard he’s quite impressive.
Yeah, they say he used to be a top scholar at Oxford.
That sounds interesting! I can't wait to hear his lectures.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
professor
tutor
leader
Antonyms
follower
student
subordinate
transitive verb
Definition
To put on clothing or an accessory.
Example
She decided to don her favorite jacket before going outside.
Tense Forms
Past: donned
Past Participle: donned
Conversation
Hey, did you see what Sarah don last night at the party?
Yeah, she really don that cute dress beautifully!
I know, right? I wish I could don something that stylish.
Root Explanation
The word 'don' originates from Old English 'donn', meaning to put on or to wear. It refers to the act of putting on clothing or a title.
Memory Tip
Think of 'putting on' something, like clothing or a title, to remember that 'don' means to put on.
Visually Confused Words
down
dorn
doon
domn
dion
on
do