stocks
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
shares in the ownership of a company that can be bought and sold.
shares of ownership in a corporation, representing a claim on part of the corporation's assets and earnings.
Simple“He decided to invest his savings in stocks and bonds for long-term growth.”
In context“The sudden volatility in tech stocks caused widespread concern among institutional investors who had previously predicted a stable quarter.”
UsageUsually plural when referring to the market in general.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a wooden frame with holes for feet and hands, used long ago to punish people in public.
a wooden apparatus with holes for the feet and sometimes hands, formerly used for public exposure and punishment of offenders.
Simple“In the old days, people were sometimes put in the stocks for minor crimes.”
In context“The village green still features a replica of the medieval stocks, serving as a grim reminder of historical judicial practices.”
UsageAlways plural in this sense.
Synonymspillory - 03 C2 Proficiency
the wooden or metal frame that supports a ship while it is being built.
the framework or timbers on which a ship rests while being constructed or repaired.
Simple“The massive hull of the new cargo ship sat firmly on the stocks.”
In context“The vessel remained on the stocks for eighteen months before the hull was deemed seaworthy enough for the official launch ceremony.”
UsageUsually plural in a nautical context.