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BEI Test
Vocab
471
Education
Undergraduate 1
09/12/2014

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Term
voracious

syn: insatiable, gluttonous, gorging
ant: full, satisfied, quenched
Definition
desiring or consuming great quantities
Term
indiscriminate

syn: aimless, haphazard, unplanned
ant: planned, chosen, methodical
Definition
choosing at random without careful selection
Term
eminent

syn: famed, high-ranking, distinguished
ant: insignificant, unimportant, common
Definition
of high reputation, outstanding
Term
steeped

syn: immerse, marinate, submerge
ant: dehydrate, dry, deplete
Definition
soaked, drenched, satuarated
Term
replete (adj)

syn: loaded, crammed, overflowing
ant: empty, lacking, unfilled
Definition
completely filled/supplied with
Term
abound

syn: flourish, proliferate, thrive
ant: decline, fail, retreat
Definition
to exist in great numbers
Term
technology
Definition
branch of knowledge dealing with engineering, applied science, etc
Term
prognosticate

syn: foreshadow, prophesy, have a hunch
Definition
to predict/foretell a future event
Term
automaton

syn: apparatus, gadget, instrument
ant: end
Definition
a robot; a mechanical "person"
Term
matron

syn: matriarch, dame, mother
ant: patron
Definition
an older married woman
Term
paradox

syn: ambiguity, enigma, inconsistency
ant: normality, standard, accuracy
Definition
a statement that at first seems to be absurd or self-contradictory but which may in fact turn out to be true
Term
realm

syn: domain, territory, department
Definition
special field of something or someone; kingdom
Term
annals

syn: journal, archives, publication
Definition
historical records
Term
compound (v)

syn: commingle, associate, synthesize
ant: disconnect, separate, divide
Definition
to increase/add to
Term
tinge (n)

syn: bit, dash, pinch
ant: lot, information, white
Definition
a trace, smattering, or slight degree
Term
to eat humble pie
Definition
to admit your error and apologize
Term
a pig in a poke
Definition
an item you purchase without having seen; a disappointment
Term
a flash in the pan
Definition
promising at the start but then disappointing
Term
badger (v)

syn: bully, torment, heckle
ant: aid, assist, support
Definition
to pester, nag, annoy persistently
Term
implore

syn: urge, crave, pray
ant: disgust, refuse, turn off
Definition
to pled urgently for aid or mercy
Term
drudgery

syn: chore, labor, struggle
ant: entertainment, fun, snap
Definition
unpleasant, dull, or hard work
Term
interminable

syn: endless, long-winded, continuous
ant: brief, temporary, halting
Definition
unending
Term
perceive

syn: comprehend, realize, know
ant: ignore, misinterpret, misunderstand
Definition
to understand, know, become aware of
Term
to pour oil on troubled waters
Definition
to make peace, to calm someone down
Term
laconic

syn: brief, curt, short and sweet
ant: long-winded, wordy,
Definition
expressing much in few words
Term
throng

syn: multitude, congregation, mass
Definition
crowd
Term
intrepid

syn: fearless, heroic, spunky
ant: afraid, cowardly, meek
Definition
brave
Term
accost

syn:confront, bother, annoy
ant: ignore, turn away, refrain
Definition
to approach, especially with a greeting, question, or remark
Term
reticent

syn: restrained, hesitant, close-mouthed
ant: confident, extroverted, communicative
Definition
to be silent, not to speak freely; reserved
Term
the sword of Damocles
Definition
any imminent danger
Term
furtive

syn: convert, conspiratorial, calculating
ant: honest, open, aboveboard
Definition
secret, stealthy
Term
felon

syn: convict, offender, delinquent
ant: police
Definition
a person guilty of a major crime
Term
plethora

syn: plenty, much, overabundance
ant: lack, need, scarcity
Definition
excess
Term
hapless

syn: unlucky, woeful, loser
ant: happy, fortunate, well-off
Definition
unfortunate
Term
irate

syn: enraged, exasperated,irritated
ant: cheerful, happy, pleased
Definition
angry, incensed
Term
Pyrrhic victory
Definition
a too costly victory
Term
pretext

syn: alibi, ploy, pretense
ant: reality, truth, rear
Definition
an excuse, alleged reason
Term
fabricate

syn: formulate, concoct, contrive
ant: destroy, demolish, ruin
Definition
to lie; to construct
Term
adroit

syn: masterful, proficient, adept
ant: awkward, incompetent, inept
Definition
skillful
Term
gesticulate

syn: pantomime, body language, sign language
ant: speech
Definition
move the arms energetically
Term
vigilant

syn: observant, attentive, alert
ant: careless, ignorant, thoughtless
Definition
watchful
Term
a wet blanket
Definition
one who spoils the fun
Term
avid

syn: impatient, passionate, zealous
ant: apathetic, disinterested, frigid
Definition
eager
Term
cajole

syn: deceive, dupe, tantalize
ant: repulse, disgust, disenchant
Definition
coax
Term
rudimentary

syn: simple, primitive, basic
ant: complex, intricate, sophisticated
Definition
elementary
Term
enhance

syn: augment, enlarge, upgrade
ant: diminish, undermine, worsen
Definition
intensify, highten
Term
nuance

syn: refinement, implication, gradation
ant: brightness, information, lot
Definition
slight variation in meaning, tone, etc.
Term
to beard the lion in his den
Definition
to visit and oppose a person on his own grounds
Term
loathe

syn: despise, detest, repudiate
ant: cherish, love, sanction
Definition
to hate
Term
reprimand (v)

syn: castigate, reprehend, denounce
ant: approve, compliment, praise
Definition
to show sharp disapproval
Term
lackluster

syn: boring, flat, uninspired
ant: bright, enthusiastic, lively
Definition
dull
Term
caustic

syn: abrasive, harsh, scathing
ant: bland, gentle, kind
Definition
severely critical or sarcastic, biting
Term
wrest

syn: extort, extract, seize
ant: give
Definition
take by force
Term
crocodile tears
Definition
insincere tears
Term
infamous

syn: vile, scandalous, notorious
ant: magnificent, pleasant, dignified
Definition
having a bad reputation
Term
jostle

syn: bulldoze, nudge, thrust
ant: leave alone, repress, pull
Definition
to shove hard
Term
dupe (n)

syn: victim, chump, mark
ant: cognizant, knowledgeable, informed
Definition
a person easily tricked
Term
incipient

syn: embryonic, commencing, initiative
ant: developed, grown, mature
Definition
just beginning to exist or appear
Term
inadvertent

syn: careless, reckless, unwitting
ant: careful, cautious, intentional
Definition
heedless, not attentive
Term
to carry the day
Definition
to win the approval of the majority
Term
ominous

syn: dangerous, sinister, haunting
ant: encouraging, cheerful, joyful
Definition
threatening
Term
tremulous

syn: palpitating, shaky, trembling
ant: brave, unwavering, steady
Definition
quivering
Term
repudiate

syn: disown, abandon, disavow
ant: accept, allow, enforce
Definition
to reject, decline
Term
cessation

syn: interruption, discontinuance, termination
ant: beginning, commencement, opening
Definition
a stopping/ ending
Term
bristle (v)

syn:seethe, boil, fume
ant: be happy
Definition
quivering/ to be visibly roused or stirred up
Term
skid row
Definition
disreputable part of town, inhabited by derelicts and people "on the skid"
Term
euphemism

syn: purism, pretense,inflation
Definition
a less offensive term/ nice way of saying something
Term
mundane

syn: humdrum, routine, commonplace
ant: abnormal, unusual, heavenly
Definition
of or pertaining to the world, universe, or earth
Term
incongruous

syn: bizarre, inappropriate, contradictory
ant: compatible, uniform, fitting
Definition
inappropriate, unbecoming, out of place
Term
condolence

syn:compassion, solace, consolation
Definition
expression of sympathy, pity
Term
stipulate

syn: guarantee, designate, impose
ant: break, decline, calculate
Definition
to specify a condition
Term
to go in smoke
Definition
to come to no practical result
kindling smokes but but will not light a fire
Term
alacrity

syn: eagerness, zeal
ant: coolness, apathy, discouragement
Definition
briskness, lively action
Term
disdain (n)

syn: arrogance, hatred, ridicule
ant: admiration, flattery, affection
Definition
feeling of contempt for anything regarded as unworthy
Term
belligerent

syn: combative, quarrelsome, aggressive
ant: agreeable, calm, friendly
Definition
warlike
Term
intimidate

syn: frighten, terrify, coerce
ant: assure, comfort, encourage
Definition
to make timid, or to overawe
Term
feint

syn: pretension, ploy, imposture
ant: frankness, honesty, truth
Definition
a false attack
Term
pugnacious

syn: aggressive, hot-tempered, brawling
ant: laid-back, kind, nice
Definition
inclined to quarrel/fight readily
Term
promulgate

syn: announce, proclaim, broadcast
ant: conceal, hide, refrain
Definition
to make known officially
Term
scoff

syn: belittle, ridicule, knock
ant: approve, flatter, praise
Definition
to sneer at
Term
belittle

syn: criticize, minimize, discredit
ant: commend, approve, overestimate
Definition
to make seem less important
Term
to throw down the gauntlet
Definition
to challenge someone
Term
feeling no pain
Definition
drunk
Term
tangible

syn: touchable, evident, actual
ant: abstract, conceptual, unreal
Definition
having actual form
Term
laceration

syn: gash, injury
ant: closure
Definition
jagged wound
Term
castigate

syn: chastise, scold, punish
ant: approve, exonerate, forgive
Definition
to correct by punishing
Term
sordid

syn: nasty, shameful, sleazy
ant: clean, reputable, decent
Definition
dirty or filthy
Term
octogenarian
Definition
a person in their 80s
Term
Hobson's choice
Definition
to have no choice at all
Term
solace

syn: condolence, relief, pit
ant: discord, disharmony
Definition
easing of grief
Term
aspirant

syn: applicant, striver, contestant
Definition
candidate for advancement
Term
dregs

syn: waste, residue, deposits
Definition
most worthless part
Term
frenzy

syn: rage, passion, craze
ant: calm, harmony, order
Definition
wild fit
Term
scurrilous

syn: insulting, foul, offensive
ant: decent, moral, pure
Definition
grossly/obscenely abusive
Term
to rule the roost
Definition
to be in charge, to be master
Term
rampant

syn: excessive, raging, prevalent
ant: moderate, restrained, limited
Definition
going unchecked, widespread
Term
inane

syn: absurd, frivolous, idiotic
ant: bright, intelligent, smart
Definition
foolish
Term
ethics

syn: belief, integrity, morality
ant: corruption,disgrace, dishonesty
Definition
code of principles
Term
concur

syn: accord, consent, meet
ant: clash, disagree, object
Definition
agree
Term
clandestine

syn:hidden, covert, fraudulent
ant:authorized, honest, open
Definition
secret, undercover
Term
stock in trade
Definition
the goods, tools, and other requisites of a profession
Term
flagrant

syn: brazen, bold, atrocious
ant: meek, obscure, timid
Definition
outrageous, glaringly bad
Term
admonish

syn: scold, berate, reprimand
ant: allow, praise, compliment
Definition
to warn, strongly criticize
Term
duress

syn: coercion, confinement, constraint
ant: freedom, liberation, release
Definition
force, compulsion
Term
culprit

syn: criminal, offender, transgressor
ant: police
Definition
the guilty person
Term
inexorable

syn: merciless, unrelenting, adamant
ant: kind, sympathetic, yielding
Definition
to warn, reprove
Term
to take down a peg
Definition
to take the conceit out of a braggart
Term
egregious

syn: deplorable, atrocious, shocking
ant: concealed, minor, mild
Definition
remarkably bad, flagrant
Term
distraught

syn: agitated, perturbed, hysterical
ant: collected, reasonable, preaceful
Definition
mentally confused, crazed, very upset
Term
duplicity

syn: deceit, artifice, treachery
ant: forthrightness, sincerity, openness
Definition
cunning, trickery
Term
acrimonious

syn: belligerent, irate, spiteful
ant: happy, pleasant, helping
Definition
bitter in nature, speech, behavior
Term
paucity

syn: insufficiency, rarity, meagerness
ant: abundance, plenty, affluence
Definition
scarcity, lack
Term
to pass the buck
Definition
to evade responsibility
Term
elicit

syn: bring out, obtain, derive
ant: give, supress, hide
Definition
to draw forth
Term
pernicious

syn: damaging, dangerous, malicious
ant: harmless, beneficial, good
Definition
harmful, causing injury, hurtful
Term
tolerate

syn: condone, endure, sanction
ant: disagree, exclude, refuse
Definition
to put up with, to bear
Term
construe

syn: define, interpret, translate
ant: confuse, cloud, misunderstand
Definition
to make a deduction, to infer or explain
Term
impunity

syn: permission, immunity, nonliability
ant: denial, veto, imprisonment
Definition
freedom from punishment
Term
to lionize a person
Definition
to make a big fuss over someone
Term
affluent

syn: prosperous, well-off, rich
ant: destitute, poor, impoverished
Definition
having an abundance of wealth
Term
feasible

syn: achievable, attainable, reasonable
ant: implausible, impractical, unfeasible
Definition
possible, doable
Term
discern

syn: anticipate, detect, distinguish
ant: confuse, doubt, ignore
Definition
to perceive by the sight or some other sense or by intellect
Term
sally (v)

syn: accelerate, beeline, dash
Definition
suddenly rush forth
Term
consternation

syn: alarm, bewilderment, awe
ant: assurance, calmness, contentment
Definition
dismay, distress
Term
I'm from Missouri
Definition
a skeptic, one who is not easily convinced
Term
red-letter day
Definition
day of happiness, time for rejoicing
Term
precocious

syn: bright, mature, advanced
ant: stupid, unintelligent
Definition
reaching maturity early, ahead of age in understanding
Term
perfunctory

syn: sketchy, superficial, apathetic
ant: careful, detailed, complete
Definition
done without care, automatic
Term
chagrin

syn: annoyance, dismay, irritation
ant: comfort, satisfaction, happiness
Definition
feeling of disappointment, humiliation
Term
perverse

syn: wicked, contradictory, degenerate
ant: agreeable, reasonable, willing
Definition
contrary, persisting in error
Term
deride

syn: disparage, mock, ridicule
ant: admire, approve, praise
Definition
to ridicule, make fun of
Term
to let sleeping dogs lie
Definition
to let well enough alone, avoid stirring up old hostilities
Term
disparage

syn: defame, degrade, slander
ant: admire, commend, exaggerate
Definition
to discredit, criticize
Term
laudable

syn: commendable, creditable, stellar
ant: disrespected, unworthy, blameable
Definition
praiseworthy, admirable
Term
fiasco

syn: disaster, flop, debacle
ant: accomplishment, triumph, achievement
Definition
complete failure, catastrophe
Term
masticate

syn: chomp, crunch, crush
Definition
to chew up
Term
eschew

syn: abandon, forgo, renounce
ant: keep, meet, face
Definition
avoid, have nothing to do with
Term
thumb's down
Definition
signal of rejection
Term
quell

syn: conquer, extinguish, quench
ant: encourage, surrender, compliment
Definition
put an end to
Term
voluble

syn: chatty, articulate, wordy
ant: quiet, silent
Definition
talkative
Term
confidant(e)

syn: adviser, companion, familiar
ant: enemy, foe, stranger
Definition
close friend, one to whom you confide your secrets
Term
obsolescence

syn: destruction, elimination, annihilation
Definition
process of wearing out
Term
dubious

syn: hesitant, questionable, reluctant
ant: believable, determined, honest
Definition
doubtful
Term
implacable

syn: unrelenting, relentless, uncompromising
ant: kind, flexible, compassionate
Definition
cannot be appeased, pacified, inexorable
Term
paroxysm

syn: convulsion, agitation, flare-up
ant: calm, peace, happiness
Definition
a fit, sudden outburst
Term
reprehensible

syn: disgraceful,sinful, condemnable
ant: creditable, respectable, good
Definition
worthy of blame, shameful
Term
jurisdiction

syn: command, administration, reign
ant: weakness, surrender, submission
Definition
power, range of authority
Term
skirmish

syn: brawl, altercation, dispute
ant: accord, agreement, harmony
Definition
small fight, brief encounter
Term
cause celebre
Definition
a famous law case/controversy
Term
one swallow does not make a summer
Definition
don't jump to conclusions based on incomplete evidence
Term
harass

syn: heckle, pester, annoy
ant: delight, encourage, aid
Definition
to trouble, torment
Term
monolithic

syn: bulky, enormous, gargantuan
Definition
massively solid
Term
indigent

syn: impoverished, destitute, poverty-stricken

ant: affluent, rich, wealthy
Definition
poor, needy
Term
arbitrary

syn: frivolous, random, irresponsible
ant: consistent, logical, regular
Definition
based on whim, chance
Term
fray

syn: melee, brawl, conflict
ant: peace, agreement, surrender
Definition
a fight, battle
Term
stymie

syn: crimp, stall, foil
ant: advance, assist, support
Definition
to hinder, impede
Term
effigy

syn: likeness, statue, figure
ant: being, entity
Definition
a representation or image, ESP sculptured, as on a monument
Term
flout

syn: defy, mock, scorn
ant: approve, commend, praise
Definition
show contempt
Term
cognizant

syn: apprehensive, informed, knowledgeable
ant: ignorant, senseless, unfamiliar
Definition
aware
Term
turbulent

syn: chaotic, quarrelsome, towdy
ant: agreeable, calm, gentle
Definition
unruly, agitated
Term
a bitter pill to swallow
Definition
a humiliating defeat
Term
an ax to grind
Definition
having a selfish motive in the background
Term
terminate

syn: abort, cancel, eliminate
ant: accept, engage, begin
Definition
to end
Term
forthwith

syn: abruptly, right away, instantly
ant: later
Definition
immediately
Term
exacerbate

syn: aggravate, annoy, provoke
ant: aid, alleviate, appease
Definition
to irritate, make worse
Term
revert

syn: degenerate, regress, backslide
ant: continue, improve, progress
Definition
return to an earlier, less developed condition
Term
oust

syn: eject, remove, deprive
ant: hire, place, retain
Definition
to drive out, eject
Term
sour grapes
Definition
to disparage something that you cannot have
Term
emaciated

syn: anorexic, famished, meager
ant: overweight, overnourished, fat
Definition
abnormally thin, wasted away
Term
surge

syn: flood, outpouring, gush
ant: decline, decrease
Definition
to rush suddenly
Term
tranquil

syn: calm, stable, sedate
ant: agitated, fierce, chaotic
Definition
quiet, peaceful
Term
sanctuary

syn: altar, temple, shrine
Definition
shelter
Term
ascend

syn: soar, escalate, tower
ant: decline, decrease, fall
Definition
to rise, go up
Term
to swap horses in midstream
Definition
to vote against a candidate running for reelection, to change one's mind
Term
malnutrition

syn: hunger, starvation, bulimia
Definition
faulty or inadequate diet
Term
afflict

syn: burden, torment, oppress
ant: delight, help, relieve
Definition
to trouble greatly, to distress
Term
besiege

syn: trap, encircle, confine
ant: let go, leave alone
Definition
to surround, hem in
Term
privation

syn: hardship, disadvantage, necessity
ant: abundance, luxury, plenty
Definition
lack of necessities
Term
sinister

syn: mischievous, threatening, dire
ant: happy, lucky, good
Definition
evil, ominous
Term
to cool one's heels
Definition
to be kept waiting
Term
ubiquitous

syn: everywhere, universal, pervasive
ant: rare, scarce
Definition
being everywhere at the same time
Term
remote

syn: distant, faraway, isolated
ant: close, near, sociable
Definition
distant, hidden away
Term
thwart

syn: frustrate, obstruct, impede
ant: facilitate, encourage, allow
Definition
to hinder, stop
Term
harbinger

syn: omen, precursor, signal
Definition
a forerunner, advance notice
Term
malignant

syn: cancerous, fatal, lethal
ant: benign, harmless, invigorating
Definition
likely to cause death
Term
a red herring
Definition
something that diverts attention from the main issue
Term
excruciating

syn: grueling, intense, unbearable
ant: calm, dull, easy
Definition
agonizing, torturing
Term
respite

syn: breather, downtime, interruption
ant: continuation, go, punishment
Definition
an interval of relief, pause
Term
reverberating

syn: resound, ring, react
ant: quieten
Definition
reechoing, vibrate in sound
Term
fretful

syn: complaining, mean, edgy
ant: calm, joyous, pleased
Definition
worrisome, irritable
Term
succumb

syn: cease, defer, pass away
ant: defend, fight, bear
Definition
to give way, die
Term
to spill the beans
Definition
to give away a secret
Term
impresario

syn: director, sponsor,
Definition
producer or director of public entertainment
Term
extortion

syn: coercion, fraud, theft
ant: peace
Definition
getting money by threats
Term
adverse

syn: detrimental, conflicting, unfortunate
ant: assisting, beneficial, assisting
Definition
unfavorable, harmful
Term
asset

syn: resource, distinction, benefit
ant: hindrance, hurt,
Definition
a valuable thing to have
Term
bigot

syn: racist, chauvinist, opinionated
ant: moderate, humanitarian, tolerator
Definition
a narrow-minded, prejudiced person
Term
to keep a stiff upper lip
Definition
to be courageous in the face of trouble
Term
blatant

syn: outright, shameless, brassy
ant: subtle, silent, concealed
Definition
disagreeably loud, very showy
Term
entourage

syn: associates, attendants, companions
ant: leader
Definition
group of followers
Term
virulent

syn: bitter, scathing, vicious
ant: friendly, good, pleasant
Definition
full of hate, harmful
Term
venom

syn: hatred, anger, toxin
Definition
poison, spite, malice
Term
spew

syn: heave, regurgitate
Definition
throw up, vomit, eject
Term
loath

syn: hesitant, resisting, uneager
ant: approving, ready, willing
Definition
unwilling, reluctant
Term
solicit

syn: ask, inquire, mooch
ant: conceal, ignore, offer
Definition
to beg, seek earnestly
Term
astute

syn: insightful, canny, discerning
ant: foolish, idiotic, naive
Definition
keen, shrewd
Term
advocate (v)

syn: defender, promoter, encourage
ant: block, condemn, oppose
Definition
to be in favor of, to support
Term
ineffectual

syn: inadequate, impotent, insufficient
ant: able, capable, sufficient
Definition
not effective
Term
to have cold feet
Definition
to hesitate because of fear or uncertainty
Term
to look a gift horse in the mouth
Definition
to be critical of a present
Term
scrutinize

syn: analyze, investigate, watch
ant: forget, ignore, misunderstand
Definition
examine closely
Term
nefarious

syn: horrible, outrageous, degenerate
ant: delightful, magnificent, pleasant
a
Definition
villainous, vicious
Term
amicable

syn: cordial, courteous, peaceful
ant: disagreeable, impolite, rude
Definition
friendly, peaceful
Term
vexatious

syn: nagging, exasperating, aggravating
ant: aiding, assisting, pleasing
Definition
annoying
Term
malady

syn: ailment, epidemic, infection
ant: comfort, good health, strength
Definition
disease
Term
to pay the piper
Definition
to bear the consequences
Term
inclement

syn: brutal, harsh, rigorous
ant: merciful, mild, clear
Definition
unfavorable, stormy
Term
peruse

syn: browse, analyze, inspect
ant: neglect, overlook
Definition
to read carefully
Term
premonition

syn: hunch, suspicion, apprehensiveness
ant: knowledge, trust
Definition
forewarning
Term
desist

syn: abstain, suspend, relinquish
ant: carry on, finish, resume
Definition
cease
Term
recoil

syn: cringe, wince, shrink
ant: steady, remain, stay
Definition
draw back
Term
to pay the piper
Definition
to bear the consequences
Term
pertinent

syn: applicable, related, admissible
ant: improper, irrelevant, unsuitable
Definition
to the point
Term
mastiff
Definition
large dog
Term
obsess

syn: consume, dominate, engross
Definition
to haunt, preoccupy
Term
doleful

syn: dejected, distressing, somber
ant: cheerful, elated, gleeful
Definition
sad, melancholy
Term
wan

syn: faint, peaked, pasty
ant: colorful, healthy, flushed
Definition
sickly pale
Term
on the carpet
Definition
being scolded
Term
histrionics

syn: dramatics, tragedy,
Definition
display of emotions
Term
elusive

syn: ambiguous, incomprehensible, baffling
ant: definite, understandable, stable
Definition
hard to grasp
Term
frustrate

syn: baffle, hinder, impede
ant: assist, encourage, surrender
Definition
counteract, foil
Term
symptomatic

syn: symbolic, suggestive, significant
Definition
having to do with signs or symptoms, indicative
Term
interject

syn: implant, insinuate, intrude
ant: erase, withdraw, remove
Definition
insert, interrupt
Term
to show one's hand
Definition
to reveal one's intentions
Term
inert

syn: dormant, immobile, listless
ant: lively, moving, animated
Definition
without power to move, lifeless
Term
salient

syn: famous, impressive, significant
ant: unimportant, unnoticeable, unimpressive
Definition
outstanding, prominent
Term
squeamish

syn: disgusted, queasy, prudish
ant: ready, willing, undemanding
Definition
easily shocked, over sensitive
Term
engrossed

syn: captivated, engaged, enthralled
ant: bored, uninterested, oblivious
Definition
absorbed, preoccupied
Term
to tilt at windmills
Definition
to fight imaginary enemies
Term
inundate

syn: swamp, overflow, engulf
ant: underwhelm
Definition
to flood
Term
fruitless

syn: ineffective, pointless, barren
ant: effective, productive, profitable
Definition
useless, bringing no advantage
Term
poignant

syn: bitter, pathetic, emotional
ant: cheerful, indifferent, wonderful
Definition
moving, painful to the feelings
Term
garbled

syn: misinterpret, obscure, distort
ant: explain, organize, order
Definition
confused, mixed up
Term
sanguine

syn: confident, hopeful, upbeat
ant: depressed, gloomy, pessimistic
Definition
optimistic
Term
to feather one's nest
Definition
grow rich by taking advantage of circumstances
Term
phlegmatic

syn: passionless, flat, unresponsive
Definition
calm, hard to rouse to action
Term
corroborate

syn: validate, substantiate, verify
ant: contradict, disprove, reject
Definition
confirm, support
Term
comprehensive

syn: extensive, complete, global
ant: incomplete, narrow, restricted
Definition
thorough, inclusive
Term
zealous

syn: fanatical, dedicated, devoted
ant: apathetic, frigid, unenthusiastic
Definition
enthusiastic
Term
coerce

syn: intimidate, bully, pressurize
ant: allow, help, free
Definition
to force
Term
fair-weather friends
Definition
unreliable, they fail one in time of distress
Term
elapse

syn: expire, transpire, vanish
Definition
to slip away, go by
Term
meticulous

syn: accurate, strict, precise
ant: careless, negligent, sloppy
Definition
careful, detailed
Term
domicile

syn: abode, dwelling, residence
ant: office
Definition
home
Term
lax

syn: lenient, vague, derelict
ant: attentive, mindful, careful
Definition
careless, negligent
Term
sporadic

syn: infrequent, random, isolated
ant: common, methodical, systematic
Definition
occasional
Term
to sow one's wild oats
Definition
to lead a wild, carefree life
Term
rash (adj)

syn: daring, immature, unthinking
ant: afraid, cautious, reasonable
Definition
too hasty, reckless
Term
conjecture

syn: opinion, presumption, hypothesis
ant: proof, reality, calculation
Definition
guess, speculation
Term
obviate

syn: block, deter, intervene
ant: support, allow, encourage
Definition
do away with, eliminate
Term
lurid

syn: ghastly, gory, horrifying
ant: delightful, pleasant, moral
Definition
sensational, shocking, gruesome
Term
quip

syn: banter, satire, retort
ant: flattery, praise, seriousness
Definition
witty communication, often verbal
Term
windfall
Definition
unexpected financial gain
Term
diatribe

syn: tirade, disputation, onslaught
ant: compliment, praise, recommendation
Definition
bitter criticism
Term
inhibition

syn: shyness, prevention, reserve
ant: liberation, permission, freedom
Definition
restraint, hindrance
Term
fortuitous

syn: haphazard, serendipitous, unforeseen
ant: deliberate, intentional, designed
Definition
accidental, lucky
Term
incoherent

syn: jumbled, muddled, disconnected
ant: understandable, coherent, connected
Definition
disjointed, unintelligible
Term
ilk

syn: class, denomination, order
Definition
kind, sort
Term
to wear one's heart on one's sleeve
Definition
to make one's feelings evident
Term
importune

syn: appeal, badger, besiege
ant: aid, assist, answer
Definition
ask urgently, demand
Term
incontrovertible

syn: accurate, authentic, established
ant: changeable, questionable, uncertain
Definition
undeniable, beyond dispute
Term
surreptitious

syn: sneaking, covert, fraudulent
ant: forthright, honest, truthful
Definition
stealthy, accomplished by secret
Term
haven

syn: retreat, sanctuary, shelter
Definition
place of safety
Term
subjugate

syn: enslave, overcome, subdue
ant: encourage, fail, surrender
Definition
conquer, overpower
Term
to take the bull by the horns
Definition
to face a problem directly
Term
ultimate

syn: eventual, terminal, closing
ant: extra, introductory, unnecessary
Definition
final, last
Term
eventuate

syn: terminate, result, occur
ant: begin, precede, start
Definition
to be the issue or outcome; come about
Term
emit

syn: radiate, spew, transmit
ant: conceal, hide, deny
Definition
to give off
Term
subterranean

syn: buried, covered, sunken
Definition
underground
Term
viable

syn: feasible, applicable, possible
ant: unlikely, unreasonable, unachievable
Definition
practicable, workable
Term
the lion's share
Definition
the major portion
Term
premise

syn: assumption, thesis, proof
ant: denial, reality, rejection
Definition
grounds for a conclusion
Term
jeopardize

syn: threaten, hazard, risk
ant: guard, protect, plan
Definition
endanger
Term
incredulous

syn: suspicious, doubtful, hesitant
ant: believing, definite, certain
Definition
skeptical
Term
permeate

syn: infuse, penetrate, saturate
ant: dehydrate, dry, take out
Definition
to spread through
Term
propitious

syn: opportune, encouraging, advantageous
ant: unlucky, unfriendly, inopportune
Definition
favorable, full of promise
Term
out of the frying pan into the fire
Definition
to go from a difficult situation to a worse one
Term
surmise

syn: assumption, speculation, suspicion
ant: fact, knowledge, certainty
Definition
guess, conclusion
Term
curtail

syn: diminish, decrease, abbreviate
ant: develop, enlarge, expand
Definition
to cut short
Term
repress

syn: muffle, restrain, suppress
ant: assist, encourage, liberate
Definition
to put down, keep back
Term
cryptic

syn: ambiguous, vague, evasive
ant: certain, clear, definite
Definition
puzzling, obscure in meaning
Term
inchoate

syn: elementary, formless, immature
ant: developed, grown, mature
Definition
in an early stage
Term
to keep the pot boiling
Definition
to see that interest doesn't die down
Term
aspire

syn: crave, strive, yearn
ant: dislike, despise, hate
Definition
to strive for
Term
inveigh

syn: berate, condemn, blast
ant: allow, approve, accept
Definition
attack verbally, denounce
Term
nettle

syn: exasperate, fret, peeve
ant: appease, comfort, soothe
Definition
irritate, provoke
Term
overt

syn: apparent, definite, visible
ant: obscure, concealed, private
Definition
open, obvious
Term
relegate

syn: demote, ostracize, displace
ant: allow, welcome, upgrade
Definition
assign to an inferior position
Term
to bury the hatchet
Definition
to make peace
Term
supine

syn: reclining, horizontal, prone
Definition
lying on the back
Term
mammoth

syn: colossal, enormous, gargantuan
ant: insignificant, miniscule, miniature
Definition
huge
Term
repulse

syn: failure, refusal, disappointment
ant: attainment, help, enchantement
Definition
drive back, rejection
Term
havoc

syn: calamity, catastrophe, devastation
ant: blessing, creation, calm
Definition
ruin, chaotic situation
Term
raze

syn: bulldoze, demolish, extinguish
ant: create, construct, restore
Definition
destroy
Term
Philadelphia lawyer
Definition
a lawyer of outstanding ability
Term
lethal

syn: dangerous, devastating, fatal
ant: harmless, healthy, helpful
Definition
deadly
Term
scurry

syn: dart, dash, hurry
ant: slow, walk, loaf
Definition
run hastily
Term
incisive

syn: clever, piercing, concise
ant: weak, gentle, incompetent
Definition
remarkably clear & direct; sharp; keen; acute
Term
precipitate

syn: accelerate, expedite, dispatch
ant: block, check, halt
Definition
to hasten the occurrence of; bring about prematurely, hastily, or suddenly
Term
stereotype

syn: custom, average, mold
ant: difference
Definition
unvarying pattern
Term
to gild the lily
Definition
to praise extravagantly
Term
stentorian

syn: blaring, resounding, sonorous
Definition
very loud
Term
singular

syn: bizarre, peculiar, rare
ant: common, inferior, ordinary
Definition
extraordinary, unique, odd
Term
valor

syn: boldness, determination, heroism
ant: meekness, timidity, weakness
Definition
courage, bravery
Term
bias

syn: bigotry, intolerance, preconception
ant: fairness, justice, impartiality
Definition
prejudice
Term
sinecure
Definition
an office or position requiring little or no work
Term
to steal one's thunder
Definition
to weaken one's position by stating the argument before that person does
Term
complicity

syn: collaboration, involvement, implication
ant: refusal, ignorance, innocence
Definition
partnership in wrongdoing
Term
liquidation

syn: clearance, eradication, removal
ant: acceptance, allowance, inclusion
Definition
disposal of, killing
Term
accomplice

syn: co-conspirator, collaborator, abettor
ant: antagonist, enemy, adversary
Definition
an associate in crime
Term
recant

syn: annul, renounce, retract
ant: accept, corroborate, affirm
Definition
withdraw previous statements
Term
culpable

syn: guilty, liable, caught
ant: immune, right, irresponsible
Definition
deserving blame
Term
woolgathering
Definition
absent-mindedness or daydreaming
Term
abrogate

syn: dissolve, reject, repeal
ant: approve, enact, sanction
Definition
abolish, formally put an end to
Term
alleged

syn: suspicious, declared, pretended
ant: certain, definite, sure
Definition
reported, supposed
Term
access

syn: approach, door, route
ant: conclusion, outlet
Definition
admittance, means of entry
Term
invalidate

syn: abolish, impair, annul
ant: allow, approve, aid
Definition
to deprive of legal force, to nullify
Term
preclude

syn: cease, deter, impede
ant: facilitate, assist, encourage
Definition
prevent the presence, existence, or occurrence of; make impossible
Term
to whitewash
Definition
to conceal defects, to give a falsely virtuous appearance to something
Term
persevere

syn: endure, keep going, persue
ant: cease, discontinue, give up
Definition
persist, work hard
Term
landmark (adj)

syn: milestone, watershed, event
Definition
historic, turning point of a period
Term
extrinsic

syn: alien, exotic, imported
ant: interior, integral, essential
Definition
being outside a thing; outward or external
Term
declaim

syn: declare, lecture, proclaim
ant: be quiet, praise, compliment
Definition
speak aloud in an oratorical manner; make a formal speech
Term
fetter (v)

syn: bind, hamper, repress
ant: liberate, release, free
Definition
to confine; restrain
Term
to break the ice
Definition
to make a start by overcoming initial difficulties
Term
paragon

syn: epitome, original, quintessence
ant: flaw, imperfection, worst
Definition
model of excellence
Term
nomadic

syn: drifting, roaming, migrant
ant: native, settled
Definition
wandering
Term
asperity

syn: crabbiness, irritability, difficulty
ant: contentment, kindness, politeness
Definition
harshness; bad temper
Term
epithet

syn: nickname, title, designation
Definition
descriptive name
Term
controversial

syn: disputed, argumentative, questionable
ant: certain, definite, sure
Definition
debatable, issue
Term
the grapevine
Definition
a secret means of spreading information
Term
virtuosity

syn: knowledge, proficiency, understanding
ant: ignorance, ineptness, misinterpretation
Definition
great technical skill
Term
temerity

syn: brass, gall, audacity
ant: humility, modesty, politeness
Definition
foolish boldness
Term
amorous

syn: romantic, affectionate, passionate
ant: frigid, hateful, indifferent
Definition
full of love
Term
progeny

syn: offspring, lineage, children
ant: parent
Definition
descendants
Term
saturate

syn: douse, immerse, permeate
ant: dehydrate, dry, deprive
Definition
soak, fill up completely
Term
to have the upper hand
Definition
to gain control
Term
perpetrate

syn: execute, act, inflict
ant: leave, stop, halt
Definition
commit, to be responsible for
Term
consummate

syn: accomplish, complete, conclude
ant: fail, give up, stop
Definition
to bring to a state of perfection; fulfill
Term
subterfuge

syn: trick, ploy, sham
ant: honesty, fairness, openness
Definition
ruse, trick
Term
concoct

syn: create, fabricate, hatch
ant: destroy, wreck, neglect
Definition
to devise; make up; contrive
Term
fallacious

syn: false, wrong, fictitious
ant: correct, true, real
Definition
misleading
Term
to draw in one's horns
Definition
to check one's anger, to restrain oneself
Term
manifold

syn: assorted, diversified, varied
ant: same, one, single
Definition
complex, many
Term
assiduous

syn: diligent, steady, grinding
ant: lethargic, negligent, lazy
Definition
devoted, attentive, hard-working
Term
impeccable

syn: exquisite, precise, unblemished
ant: corrupt, flawed, imperfect
Definition
faultless, flawless
Term
fraught

syn: charged, stuffed, replete
ant: empty
Definition
filled, full of
Term
resourceful

syn: enterprising, ingenious, talented
ant: incompetent, inactive, inept
Definition
able to meet any situation
Term
to put the cart before the horse
Definition
to reverse the proper order, do things backwards
Term
murky

syn: cloudy, dreary, nebulous
ant: apparent, hopeful, distinct
Definition
dark, obscure
Term
component

syn: factor, ingredient, item
ant: whole
Definition
element, part
Term
hoax

syn: bamboozle, bluff, dupe
ant: be honest, give
Definition
deception, trick
Term
labyrinth

syn: maze, complexity, entanglement
ant: order, simplicity, organization
Definition
arrangement of winding passages
Term
evaluate

syn: calculate, estimate, gauge
ant: neglect
Definition
appraise, find the value of
Term
to turn the tables
Definition
to turn a situation to one's own advantage
Term
exult

syn: jubilate, celebrate, cheer
ant: conceal, grieve, mourn
Definition
rejoice greatly
Term
attest

syn: authenticate, swear, verify
ant: conceal, hide, abstain
Definition
to certify
Term
gullible

syn: innocent, green, simple
ant: astute, wise, suspicious
Definition
easily cheated/fooled
Term
deploy

syn: expand, extend, utilize
ant: conclude, finish, conceal
Definition
to position forces according to a plan
Term
enigma

syn: mystery, puzzle, conundrum
Definition
riddle
Term
a chip off the old block
Definition
a son who is like his father (from the same block of wood)
Term
abortive

syn: fruitless, futile, ineffective
ant: profitable, productive, complete
Definition
useless, failing to succeed
Term
modify

syn: customize, reshape, remodel
ant: disarrange, unfit, stagnate
Definition
to change
Term
accommodate

syn: adapt, modify, conform
ant: fight, mismatch, oppose
Definition
to make fit, adjust to
Term
spontaneous

syn: impromptu, uncontrived, voluntary
ant: deliberate, planned, premeditated
Definition
without preparation, unrehearsed
Term
innate

syn: intrinsic, ingrained, instinctive
ant: acquired, extrinsic, learned
Definition
natural
Term
under the wire
Definition
just in time
Term
veneer

syn: coat, gloss, whiten
ant: reveal, strip, uncover
Definition
thin covering
Term
myriad

syn: endless, infinite, multiple
ant: countable, limited, measurable
Definition
countless number
Term
urbane

syn: elegant, cultured, refined
ant: uncouth, uncultured, uncivilized
Definition
polished, witty
Term
crave

syn: need, dream, want
ant: dislike, have, spurn
Definition
to desire
Term
irrelevant

syn: insignificant, unnecessary, pointless
ant: essential, useful, valuable
Definition
not related to the subject
Term
to be at large
Definition
not confined or in jail
Term
deem

syn: allow, assume, suppose
ant: ignore, disregard, neglect
Definition
believe, to judge
Term
inherent

syn: built-in, internal, genetic
ant: extra, learned, added
Definition
existing in someone/thing as a permanent & inseparable element, quality, or attribute
Term
buff (n)

syn: admirer, connoisseur, expert
ant: enemy, ignoramus, opponent
Definition
a fan, follower
Term
romp

syn: frolic, prance, frisk
Definition
to move in a lively manner
Term
latent

syn: lurking, smoldering, covert
ant: apparent, active, obvious
Definition
lying hidden
Term
to go against the grain
Definition
to irritate
Term
tortuous

syn: twisting, indirect, meandering
ant: simple, straight, direct
Definition
winding
Term
itinerant

syn: nomadic, floating, travelling
ant: settled, permanent
Definition
wandering
Term
peregrination

syn: expedition, hiking, journey
Definition
travel
Term
conjugal

syn: connubial, wedded, matrimonial
Definition
relating to marriage
Term
barometer

syn: weatherglass, storm gauge, pressure indicator
Definition
instrument for measuring change
Term
to wink at
Definition
to pretend not to see
Term
megalomania

syn: arrogance, boastfulness, bragging
ant: altruism, humility, selflessness
Definition
abnormal desire for wealth and power
Term
profligate

syn: extravagant, squandering, lavish
ant: careful, saving, nice
Definition
wasteful
Term
strife

syn: animosity, bickering, conflict
ant: accord, harmony, truce
Definition
discord, disagreement
Term
legion

syn: countless, populous, voluminous
ant: few, numbered
Definition
a large number
Term
coup

syn: overthrow, exploit, overthrow
ant: failure
Definition
revolution
Term
to play possum
Definition
to try to fool someone; to make believe one is asleep or dead
Term
amnesty

syn: forgiveness, immunity, reprieve
Definition
a general pardon
Term
expatriate

syn: evacuee, migrant, refugee
Definition
an exile
Term
exonerate

syn: acquit, dismiss, pardon
ant: condemn, employ, punish
Definition
to free from guilt
Term
fiat

syn: command, dictate, mandate
ant: denial, opposition, veto
Definition
an official order, a decree
Term
mendacious

syn: deceitful, erroneous, false
ant: frank, honest, truthful
Definition
lying, untrue
Term
it's an ill wind that blows nobody good
Definition
someone usually benefits from another person's misfortune
Term
parsimonious

syn: greedy, close, prudent
ant: generous, liberal, lavish
Definition
miserly
Term
pecuniary

syn: monetary, banking, economic
Definition
financial
Term
dismantle

syn: demolish, destroy, decimate
ant: build, create, restore
Definition
to strip of covering, take apart
Term
sumptuous

syn: beautiful, magnificent, elegant
ant: homely, inferior, plain
Definition
lavish
Term
underwrite

syn: approve, secure, subsidize
ant: disapprove, deny, veto
Definition
agree to finance
Term
to know the ropes
Definition
to be fully acquainted with the procedures
Term
restrictive
Definition
harsh, confining
Term
balk (v)

syn:flinch, hesitate, resist
ant: accept, face, meet
Definition
to refuse to move
Term
blunt

syn: candid, curt, forthright
ant: kind, tactful, polite
Definition
plain spoken
Term
nostalgia

syn: sentimentality, remorse, longing
Definition
yearning for the past
Term
rife

syn: abundant, plentiful, epidemic
ant: limited, scarce, uncommon
Definition
common or frequent occurrence; prevalent; widespread
Term
behind the eight ball
Definition
in trouble
Term
reviled

syn: berate, castigate, criticize
ant: compliment, praise, applaud
Definition
scolded
Term
derogatory

syn: degrading, sarcastic, slanderous
ant: complimentary, appreciative, flattering
Definition
belittling, disparaging
Term
indict

syn: censure, impeach, prosecute
ant: exonerate, free, acquit
Definition
accuse
Term
nebulous

syn: ambiguous, murky, uncertain
ant: bright, certain, definite
Definition
unclear, vague
Term
pesky

syn: troublesome, vexing, irksome
ant: pleasing, untroubling
Definition
annoying
Term
left holding the bag
Definition
to be left to suffer the blame
Term
redolent

syn: perfumed, pungent, scented
Definition
fragrant
Term
repose (n)

syn: inactivity, stillness, peace
ant: awakening, action, disturbance
Definition
state of rest
Term
omnivorous

syn: gluttonous, greedy, ravenous
Definition
eating any kind of food
Term
disparate

syn: contrasting, diverse, various
ant: agreeing, alike, same
Definition
distinct in kind; essentially different
Term
abstemious

syn: restrained, sparing, frugal
ant: gluttonous, greedy, hungry
Definition
moderate in eating or drinking
Term
a lick and a promise
Definition
to do something in a hasty and superficial manner
Term
extant

syn: surviving, current, alive
ant: dead, extinct, gone
Definition
still existing
Term
vicissitudes

syn: fluctuation, variety, uncertainty
ant: similarity, stability, stagnation
Definition
difficulties
Term
edifice

syn: monument, skyscraper, towers
Definition
a building, especially one of a large size/imposing appearance
Term
sultry

syn: muggy, sweltering, torrid
ant: cold, frigid, dry
Definition
extremely hot and moist, torrid
Term
trenchant

syn: biting, pointed, critical
ant: bland, blunt, dull
Definition
keen or incisive, as language or a person
Term
tongue in cheek
Definition
insincerely
Term
puissant

syn: forceful, hearty, tough
Definition
powerful, might, potent
Term
unabated

syn: persistent, sustained, unstoppable
ant: surrendering, yielding, intermittent
Definition
without subsiding
Term
maudlin

syn: romantic, sentimental, weepy
ant: unemotional, calm, pragmatic
Definition
sentimental
Term
levity

syn: amusement, giddiness, absurdity
ant: depression, gloom, sense
Definition
lightness of disposition, mind and character
Term
lugubrious

syn: mournful, sorrowful, gloomy
ant: cheerful, joyful
Definition
very sad
Term
to take the wind out of one's sails
Definition
to remove someone's advantage
Term
scion

syn: heir, offspring, brood
ant: parent, root, source
Definition
child, descendant
Term
indoctrinate

syn: instill, influence, convince
ant: forget, neglect, learn
Definition
to teach certain principles
Term
opulence

syn: abundance, affluence, fortune
ant: poverty, deficiency, frugality
Definition
wealth, riches
Term
obsequious

syn: submissive, sniveling, spineless
ant: arrogant, brazen, assertive
Definition
seeking favor, fawning
Term
fulsome

syn: offensive, inordinate, smooth
ant: reasonable, sincere
Definition
excessive, insincere
Term
two stings to one's bow
Definition
two means of achieving one's aim
Term
lush

syn: abundant, overgrown, lavish
ant: barren, destitute, sparse
Definition
luxurious, elaborate
Term
destitution

syn: poverty, privation, want
ant: abundance
Definition
extreme poverty
Term
ponder

syn: contemplate, evaluate, mull
ant: discard, ignore, forget
Definition
to consider carefully
Term
supplication

syn: petition, plea, request
ant: answer, reply
Definition
earnest prayer
Term
decadence

syn: degeneracy, decline, downgrade
ant: development, virtue, upgrade
Definition
moral degeneration or decay
Term
on tenter hooks
Definition
in a state of anxiety
Term
penance

syn: forgiveness, remorse, repentance
ant: happiness, reward, joy
Definition
atonement for sin
Term
ascetic (n)

syn: disciplined, abstaining, strict
Definition
one who practices self-denial and devotion
Term
desultory

syn: aimless, haphazard, chaotic
ant: organized, systematic
Definition
occurring by chance, disconnected
Term
disciple

syn: cohort, pupil, devotee
ant: detractor, enemy, opponent
Definition
follower
Term
metamorphosis

syn: evolution, rebirth, transfiguration
ant: stagnation
Definition
change
Term
the fat is in the fire
Definition
the mischief is done
Term
bona fide

syn: actual, authentic, legitimate
Definition
genuine
Term
salvation

syn: emancipation, redemption, preservation
ant: loss, endangerment, destruction
Definition
deliverance from ruin, means of being saved
Term
materialism

syn: pragmatism, utilitarianism, heterodoxy
ant: spiritualism
Definition
attention to worldly things and neglect of spiritual needs
Term
like Caesar's wife
Definition
above suspicion
Term
juxtapose

syn: pair, connect, bring together
Definition
to place side by side
Term
plight

syn: trouble, circumstances, condition
ant: solution, benefit, advantage
Definition
predicament, dangerous situation
Term
covert

syn: undercover, private, concealed
ant: open, public, revealed
Definition
secret, hidden
Term
cope

syn: endure, handle, survive
ant: hold, keep, refuse
Definition
to be matched for, to be able to handle
Term
incompatibility

syn: animosity, disagreement, opposition
ant: agreement, harmony, peace
Definition
quality of being mismated, lack of harmony
Term
plea bargain
Definition
to agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge so as to avoid trail for a more serious offense.
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