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Vocabulary Archive
Archive of Vocabulary and Latin Roots
703
English
Graduate
07/18/2012

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Cards

Term
Abase
Definition
to humble; to disgrace; behave in a way so as to belittle or degrade
Term
Abate
Definition
To reduce in amount, degree, or severity
Term
Aberrant
Definition
deviating from what is normal or expected
Term
Aberration
Definition
a departure from what is normal, usual, or expected, typically one that is unwelcome
Term
Abeyance
Definition
Temporary suppression or suspension
Term
Abjure
Definition
to reject; to abandon formally
Term
Abrogate
Definition
repeal or do away with (a law, right, or formal agreement)
Term
Abscond
Definition
To Leave Secretly
Term
Abstemious
Definition
moderate in appetite
Term
Abyss
Definition
An Extremely Deep Hole
Term
Acidulous
Definition
Sour in taste or manner
Term
Acme
Definition
the highest point; the summit; the highest level or degree attainable
Term
Acrimonious
Definition
(typically of speech or a debate) angry and bitter
Term
Acumen
Definition
the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domain
Term
Adulterate
Definition
To Make Impure
Term
Adulterate
Definition
to make impure
Term
Aegis
Definition
the protection, backing, or support of a particular person or organization
Term
Aerie
Definition
a nest built high in the air; an elevate, often secluded, dwelling
Term
Aesthetic
Definition
Concerning the Appreciation of Beauty
Term
Affected
Definition
phony; artificial
Term
Aggrandize
Definition
To increase in power, influence, and reputation
Term
Agitate
Definition
make (someone) troubled or nervous
Term
Alacrity
Definition
speed or quickness; brisk and cheerful readiness
Term
Amalgamate
Definition
To combine; To mix together
Term
Ambiguous
Definition
doubtful or uncertain; can be interpreted in several ways
Term
Ameliorate
Definition
To make better; to improve
Term
Amortize
Definition
to diminish by installment payments
Term
Amulet
Definition
An ornament worn as a charm against evil spirits
Term
Analgesia
Definition
a lessening of pain without loss of consciousness
Term
Anathema
Definition
something or someone that one vehemently dislikes
Term
Anodyne
Definition
Something that calms or soothes pain
Term
Anomaly
Definition
Deviation from what is normal
Term
Antagonize
Definition
to annoy or to provoke anger
Term
Antipathy
Definition
Extreme dislike
Term
Apathy
Definition
lack of interest or emotion
Term
Apocryphal
Definition
of questionable authority or authenticity
Term
Apostasy
Definition
the abandonment or renunciation of a religious or political belief.
Term
Apostate
Definition
one who renounces a religious faith
Term
Apotheosis
Definition
The highest point of development of something, or the elevation of a person to divine status
Term
Approbation
Definition
approval and praise
Term
Arbitrary
Definition
determined by chance or impulse
Term
Arbitrate
Definition
To judge a dispute between two opposing parties
Term
Ardor
Definition
Intense and passionate feeling
Term
Arrogate
Definition
to claim without justification; to claim for oneself without right
Term
Artifice
Definition
clever or cunning devices or expedients, esp. as used to trick or deceive others
Term
Assay
Definition
the testing of a metal or ore to determine its ingredients and quality
Term
Assuage
Definition
to make something unpleasant less severe
Term
Astute
Definition
having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage
Term
Attenuate
Definition
To reduce in force or degree; to weaken
Term
Augury
Definition
a prophecy; a prediction of events
Term
August
Definition
dignified; grandiose
Term
Avarice
Definition
extreme greed for wealth or material gain
Term
Axiom
Definition
premise; postulate; self-evident truth
Term
Banal
Definition
Predictable, Clichéd, boring
Term
Bartizan
Definition
an overhanging corner turret at the top of a castle or church tower.
Term
Base (2nd Defn)
Definition
(of a person or a person's actions or feelings) without moral principles; ignoble
Term
Belfry
Definition
a bell tower; the room in which a bell is hung
Term
Bereft
Definition
deprived of or lacking something, esp. a nonmaterial asset
Term
Bevy
Definition
a group
Term
Bifurcate
Definition
to divide into two parts
Term
Bilk
Definition
to cheat or defraud
Term
Bombastic
Definition
high-sounding but with little meaning; inflated; pompous in speech and manner;
Term
Bonhomie
Definition
good natured geniality; an atmosphere of good cheer
Term
Boor
Definition
a crude person; one lacking manners or taste
Term
Bucolic
Definition
of or relating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside and country life
Term
Burgeon (verb)
Definition
to grow and flourish
Term
Burnish
Definition
to polish
Term
Cabal
Definition
a secret political clique or faction
Term
Cachet
Definition
the state of being respected or admired; prestige; a distinguishing mark or seal
Term
Calumny
Definition
a false and malicious accusation; misrepresentation
Term
Canard
Definition
a lie
Term
Candid
Definition
Impartial and honest in speech
Term
Canter
Definition
a three-beat gait of a horse or other quadruped between a trot and a gallop
Term
Capricious
Definition
Changing one's mind quickly and often
Term
Capricious
Definition
Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior
Term
Castigate
Definition
To punish or criticize harshly
Term
Catholic (adj)
Definition
universal; broad and comprehensive
Term
Caustic
Definition
Biting in wit
Term
Chagrin
Definition
distress or embarrassment at having failed or been humiliated
Term
Chagrin
Definition
distress or embarrassment at having failed or been humiliated.
Term
Chaos
Definition
great disorder; a confused situation
Term
Chauvinist
Definition
Someone prejudiced in favor of a group to which he or she belongs
Term
Chicanery
Definition
Deception by means of craft or guile
Term
Cid (Root)
Definition
To fall; to happen by chance (accident)
Term
Cip (root)
Definition
To take; to get (recipient)
Term
Circumspect
Definition
cautious; aware of potential consequences
Term
Clement
Definition
(of weather) mild; (of a person or a person's actions) merciful
Term
Cloying (adj)
Definition
sickly sweet; excessive
Term
Coffer
Definition
a strongbox; a large chest for money
Term
Cogent
Definition
Convincing and well reasoned.
Term
Colloquial
Definition
(of language) used in ordinary or familiar conversation; not formal or literary.
Term
Collusion
Definition
a collaboration; complicity; conspiracy
Term
Compendious
Definition
containing or presenting the essential facts of something in a comprehensive but concise way
Term
Conciliate
Definition
Stop (someone) from being angry or discontented; placate; pacify
Term
Conciliatory
Definition
intended or likely to placate or pacify
Term
Condone
Definition
To overlook, pardon, or disregard.
Term
Connoisseur
Definition
a person with expert knowledge or discriminating tastes
Term
Consolation
Definition
comfort received by a person after a loss or disappointment; a person or thing providing such comfort
Term
Conspicuous
Definition
attracting notice or attention
Term
Consummate
Definition
complete (a transaction or attempt); make perfect; make (a marriage or relationship) complete by having sexual intercourse
Term
Contempt
Definition
the feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn
Term
Contrite
Definition
deeply sorrowful and repentant for wrong
Term
Contrived
Definition
deliberately created rather than arising naturally or spontaneously; created or arranged in a way that seems artificial and unrealistic
Term
Contumacious
Definition
(esp. of a defendant's behavior) stubbornly or willfully disobedient to authority
Term
Convoluted
Definition
Intricate and complicated
Term
Cosset (verb)
Definition
to pamper; to treat with care
Term
Coterie
Definition
an intimate group of persons with a similar purpose
Term
Crass
Definition
lacking sensitivity, refinement or intelligence
Term
Craven (adj)
Definition
lacking courage
Term
Credulous
Definition
having or showing too great a readiness to believe things
Term
Crenels
Definition
An indentation on the battlements of a fort used for firing missiles through
Term
Crescendo
Definition
Steadily increasing volume or force.
Term
Cunning
Definition
having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion
Term
Cupidity
Definition
greed; strong desire
Term
Curmudgeon
Definition
a cranky person, usually an old one
Term
Cynical
Definition
believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity; doubtful as to whether something will happen or whether it is worthwhile
Term
Dash
Definition
impetuous or flamboyant vigor and confidence; panache
Term
Debutante
Definition
a young woman making debut in high society
Term
Decadent
Definition
decaying; deteriorating
Term
Declivity
Definition
a downward slope
Term
Decorous
Definition
proper; tasteful; socially correct
Term
Decorum
Definition
Appropriateness of behavior or conduct; propriety
Term
Deduct
Definition
subtract or take away (an amount or part) from a total
Term
Degenerate
Definition
having lost the physical, mental, or moral qualities considered normal and desirable; showing evidence of decline
Term
Deleterious
Definition
subtly or unexpectedly harmful
Term
Demagogue
Definition
a leader or rabble-rouser, usually one appealing to emotion or prejudice
Term
Demur
Definition
to express doubts or objections
Term
Denouement
Definition
the climax of a chain of events, usually when something is decided or made clear
Term
Deprecate
Definition
express disapproval of; depreciate
Term
Deride
Definition
To speak to or treat with contempt
Term
Derision (noun)
Definition
the act of mockery
Term
Desiccate
Definition
To dry out thoroughly.
Term
Desultory
Definition
Jumping from one thing to another; Disconnected.
Term
Detent (such as in a bomb)
Definition
a catch in a machine that prevents motion until released.
Term
Devious
Definition
showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals
Term
Diaphanous
Definition
(esp. of fabric) light, delicate, and translucent
Term
Diatribe
Definition
an abusive, condemnatory speech.
Term
Dictum
Definition
an authoritative statement
Term
Diffident
Definition
Lacking self-confidence.
Term
Dilatory
Definition
Intended to delay.
Term
Dilettante
Definition
Someone with an amateurish and superficial interest in a topic.
Term
Dirge
Definition
a funeral hymn or mournful speech.
Term
Disabuse
Definition
To set right; To free from error.
Term
Discern
Definition
to perceive or recognize
Term
Discomfit
Definition
make (someone) feel uneasy or embarrassed
Term
Disparage
Definition
regard or represent as being of little worth
Term
Disquiet
Definition
a feeling of anxiety or worry
Term
Dissemble
Definition
To present a false appearance; To disguise one's real intentions or character.
Term
Dissonance
Definition
A harsh and disagreeable combination, often of sounds.
Term
Distaff
Definition
the female branch of a family
Term
Distend
Definition
to swell, inflate, or bloat
Term
Dither
Definition
to act confusedly or without clear purpose
Term
Diurnal
Definition
active or occurring during the day
Term
Divine (verb)
Definition
to foretell or know by inspiration
Term
Doctrinaire
Definition
rigidly devoted to theories without regard for practicality; dogmatic
Term
Doggedly
Definition
having or showing tenacity and grim persistence
Term
Dogma
Definition
a firmly held opinion, especially a religious belief
Term
Dogmatic
Definition
dictatorial in one's opinions.
Term
Droll
Definition
amusing in a wry, subtle way
Term
Duplicitous
Definition
deceitful
Term
Dyspeptic
Definition
Suffering from indigestion; gloomy and irritable
Term
Ebullient
Definition
exhilarated; full of enthusiasm and high spirits
Term
Effigy
Definition
a sculpture or model of a person
Term
Effrontery
Definition
imprudent boldness; audacity
Term
Elaborate (adj.)
Definition
detailed and complicated in design and planning; (of an action) lengthy and exaggerated
Term
Elaborate (verb)
Definition
develop or present (a theory, policy, or system) in detail
Term
Elegy
Definition
a sorrowful poem or speech.
Term
Eloquent
Definition
persuasive and moving, especially in speech.
Term
Encomium
Definition
warm praise
Term
Endemic
Definition
belonging to a particular area; inherent
Term
Enervate
Definition
to reduce in strength.
Term
Engender
Definition
to produce, cause, or bring about
Term
Enmity
Definition
the state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something
Term
Ephemeral
Definition
lasting a short time
Term
Epicure
Definition
a person with refined taste in food and wine
Term
Epithet
Definition
an adjective or descriptive phrase expressing a quality characteristic of the person or thing mentioned; such a word or phrase as a term of abuse
Term
Equivocate
Definition
To use expressions of double meaning in order to mislead
Term
Erratic
Definition
Wandering and unpredictable
Term
Ersatz
Definition
fake
Term
Erudite
Definition
learned, Scholarly, Bookish
Term
Eschew
Definition
deliberately avoid using; abstain from
Term
Estimable
Definition
admirable
Term
Ethos
Definition
the beliefs or character of a group
Term
Eulogy
Definition
a speech in praise of someone
Term
Euphemism
Definition
Use of an inoffensive word or phrase in place of a more distasteful one
Term
Exculpate
Definition
to clear from blame; prove innocent
Term
Exigent
Definition
urgent; requiring immediate action
Term
Expatiate
Definition
speak or write at length or in detail
Term
Expedient
Definition
(of an action) convenient and practical, although possibly improper or immoral
Term
Expiate
Definition
atone for (guilt or sin)
Term
Exponent (noun)
Definition
one who champions or advocates
Term
Expurgate
Definition
to censor; remove matter thought to be objectionable or unsuitable from a book or account
Term
Extant
Definition
(esp. of a document) still in existence; surviving
Term
Extravagant
Definition
1) (of a person) lacking restraint in spending money or using resources; 2) costing too much money; 3) exceeding what is reasonable or appropriate; absurd
Term
Fallow
Definition
dormant; unused
Term
Fanatical
Definition
acting excessively enthusiastic; filled with extreme, unquestioned devotion
Term
Fanciful
Definition
Over-imaginative and Unrealistic
Term
Fastidious
Definition
very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail; cleanliness
Term
Fatuous
Definition
stupid; foolishly self satisfied
Term
Fawn
Definition
to grovel
Term
Feckless
Definition
lacking initiative or strength of character; irresponsible
Term
Fecund
Definition
fertile; fruitful; productive
Term
Fervid
Definition
intensely emotional; feverish
Term
Fetid
Definition
smelling extremely unpleasant
Term
Fickle
Definition
changing frequently, esp. as regards one's loyalties, interests, or affection
Term
Figurative
Definition
departing from a literal use of words; metaphorical
Term
Figure of Speech
Definition
a word or phrase used in a nonliteral sense to add rhetorical force to a spoken or written passage
Term
Filial
Definition
of or due from a son or daughter
Term
Flag
Definition
to decline in vigor, strength or interest
Term
Flamboyant
Definition
1)(of a person or their behavior) tending to attract attention because of their exuberance, confidence, and stylishness
2)(esp. of clothing) noticeable because brightly colored, highly patterned, or unusual in style.
Term
Flippant
Definition
not showing a serious or respectful attitude
Term
Florid
Definition
excessively decorated or embellished
Term
Flout
Definition
openly disregard (a rule, law or convention)
Term
Foment
Definition
to arouse or incite
Term
Forbearance
Definition
patient self-control; restraint and tolerance
Term
Ford (verb)
Definition
to cross a body of water by wading
Term
Forestall
Definition
to prevent or delay; to anticipate
Term
Fortuitous
Definition
happening by accident or chance rather than design
Term
Fractious
Definition
unruly; rebellious
Term
Frenetic
Definition
frantic; frenzied
Term
Frivolity
Definition
lack of seriousness; lightheartedness
Term
Furtive
Definition
secret; stealthy
Term
Gambol (verb)
Definition
to dance or skip around playfully
Term
Garner (verb)
Definition
to gather and store
Term
Garrulous
Definition
tending to talk a lot
Term
Gaudy
Definition
extravagantly bright or showy, typically so as to be tasteless
Term
Gaunt
Definition
(of a person) lean and haggard, esp. because of suffering, hunger, or age; (of a building or place) grim or desolate in appearance
Term
Glib
Definition
fluent in an insincere manner; offhand; casual
Term
Glower
Definition
to glare or stare angrily and intensely
Term
Graduation
Definition
a degree or stage in a process; a variation in color
Term
Grandiose
Definition
impressive or magnificent in appearance or style, esp. pretentiously so
Term
Gregarious
Definition
outgoing, sociable
Term
Grievous
Definition
causing grief or sorrow; serious and distressing
Term
Grovel
Definition
to humble oneself in a demeaning way
Term
Guile
Definition
deceit or trickery; (of a person) sly or cunning intelligence
Term
Gunwale
Definition
the upper edge of the side of a boat or ship.
Term
Hapless
Definition
unfortunate; having bad luck
Term
Harangue
Definition
a lengthy and aggressive speech.
Term
Hegemony
Definition
the domination of one state or group over its allies
Term
Hermetic
Definition
tightly sealed
Term
Heuristic
Definition
enabling a person to discover or learn something for themselves; Computing proceeding to a solution by trial and error or by rules that are only loosely defined
Term
Hoary
Definition
very old; whitish or gray from age
Term
Husband (verb)
Definition
to manage economically; to use sparingly
Term
Hyperbole
Definition
exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally
Term
Idiosyncracy
Definition
a mode of behavior or way of thought peculiar to an individual
Term
Ignoble
Definition
not honorable in character or purpose; of humble origin or social status
Term
Imbue
Definition
to infuse, dye, wet or moisten
Term
Impasse
Definition
a blocked path; a dilemma with no solution
Term
Impecunious
Definition
poor; having no money
Term
Impervious
Definition
impossible to penetrate; incapable of being affected
Term
Impetuous
Definition
quick to act without thinking
Term
Impious
Definition
not devout in religion
Term
Implacable
Definition
Unable to be calmed down or made peaceful
Term
Imprecation (noun)
Definition
a curse
Term
Impugn
Definition
dispute the truth, validity, or honesty of (a statement or motive); call into question; to attack verbally
Term
Impunity
Definition
exemption from punishment or freedom from the injurious consequences of an action
Term
Incarnadine
Definition
blood-red in color
Term
Inchoate
Definition
not fully formed; disorganized
Term
Incipient
Definition
in an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop
Term
Inculcate
Definition
to teach; to impress in the mind
Term
Indolent
Definition
wanting to avoid activity or exertion; lazy
Term
Inexorable
Definition
inflexible; unyielding
Term
Infer
Definition
deduce or conclude (information) from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements
Term
Ingenuous
Definition
showing innocence or childlike simplicity
Term
Ingrate
Definition
an ungrateful person
Term
Ingratiate
Definition
to gain favor with another by deliberate effort; to seek to please somebody so as to gain an advantage (Syn. flatter)
Term
Inimical
Definition
Hostile, unfriendly
Term
Iniquity
Definition
a sin; an evil act
Term
Insipid
Definition
lacking interest or flavor
Term
Inter (verb)
Definition
to bury
Term
Interregnum
Definition
a period between reigns
Term
Intractable
Definition
not easily managed or manipulated
Term
Intransigent
Definition
Uncompromising; refusing to be reconciled
Term
Intrepid
Definition
fearless; resolutely courageous
Term
Inundate
Definition
To overwhelm; to cover with water
Term
Inure (verb)
Definition
to harden; accustom
Term
Invective (noun)
Definition
abusive language
Term
Investiture (noun)
Definition
ceremony conferring authority
Term
Invidious
Definition
envious, obnoxious, or offensive; likely to promote ill-will
Term
Irascible
Definition
having or showing a tendency to be easily angered
Term
Irresolute
Definition
showing or feeling hesitancy; uncertain
Term
Itinerant (adj.)
Definition
wandering from place to place; unsettled
Term
Jargon
Definition
nonsensical talk; specialized language
Term
Jettison
Definition
to discard; to get rid of as unnecessary or encumbering
Term
Jingoism
Definition
belligerent support of one's country
Term
Jocular (adj.)
Definition
playful; humorous
Term
Judicious
Definition
sensible; showing good judgement
Term
Juncture
Definition
a point of time, especially one where two things are joined
Term
Keen
Definition
having a sharp edge; intellectually sharp; perceptive
Term
Kindle
Definition
to set fire to or ignite; to excite or inspire
Term
Knell (noun)
Definition
sound of a funeral bell; omen of death or failure
Term
Kudos
Definition
fame, glory or honor
Term
Lachrymose (adj.)
Definition
tearful
Term
Laconic
Definition
Using few words
Term
Lampoon (verb)
Definition
to ridicule with satire
Term
Languid
Definition
lacking energy; indifferent; slow
Term
Lapidary (adj.)
Definition
relating to precious stones or the art of cutting them
Term
Largess(e) (noun)[lärˈZHes, -ˈjes]
Definition
money or gifts given generously
Term
Largess(e) (verb)[lärˈZHes, -ˈjes]
Definition
to give generously to others who may seem inferior
Term
Lassitude
Definition
a state of diminished energy
Term
Latent
Definition
potentially available, but no readily apparent
Term
Laud
Definition
to give praise; to glorify
Term
Lavish (adj.)
Definition
extremely generous or extravagant
Term
Lavish (verb)
Definition
to give unsparingly
Term
Leery
Definition
suspicious
Term
Legerdemain (noun)
Definition
trickery
Term
Lethargic
Definition
acting in an indifferent or slow, sluggish manner
Term
Levity
Definition
an inappropriate lack of seriousness; an overly casual atmosphere
Term
Liberal
Definition
tolerant or broad-minded; generous or lavish; (in a political context) favoring maximum individual liberty in political and social reform
Term
Libertine
Definition
a free thinker (usually used disparagingly); one without moral restraint
Term
Licentious
Definition
immoral; unrestrained by society
Term
Limpid
Definition
clear; transparent
Term
Lionize
Definition
to treat as a celebrity
Term
Lissome (adj.)
Definition
easily flexed; limber; agile
Term
Listless
Definition
lacking energy or enthusiasm.
Term
Livid
Definition
discolored from a bruise; pale; reddened with anger
Term
Logrolling
Definition
the practice of exchanging favors, esp. in politics by reciprocal voting for each other's proposed legislation
Term
Loquacious
Definition
Talkative (Syn. garrulous)
Term
Lugubrious
Definition
sorrowful; mournful; dismal.
Term
Lumber (verb)
Definition
to move slowly and awkwardly
Term
Luminous
Definition
bright, brilliant, glowing
Term
Macerate
Definition
(esp. with reference to food) soften or become softened by soaking in a liquid.
Term
Machination
Definition
plot or scheme
Term
Maelstrom
Definition
whirlpool; turmoil; agitated state of mind
Term
Magnate
Definition
powerful or influential person
Term
Magnificent
Definition
impressively beautiful, elaborate, or extravagant; striking; excellent
Term
Maladroit
Definition
ineffective or bungling; clumsy.
Term
Malediction
Definition
a curse; a wish of evil upon another
Term
Malign
Definition
evil in nature or effect; malevolent
Term
Malinger
Definition
to evade responsibility by pretending to be ill
Term
Mannered
Definition
artificial or stilted in character
Term
Mar (verb)
Definition
to damage or deface; to spoil
Term
Martinet
Definition
strict disciplinarian; one who rigidly follows rules
Term
Maudlin
Definition
overly sentimental
Term
Mendacious
Definition
dishonest
Term
Mendacity
Definition
untruthfulness: people publicly castigated for past mendacity.
Term
Mendicant
Definition
beggar
Term
Mercurial
Definition
quick, shrewd and unpredictable
Term
Meretricious
Definition
gaudy; falsely attractive
Term
Metaphor
Definition
A figure of speech comparing two different things; a symbol
Term
Milieu
Definition
a person's social environment
Term
Militate
Definition
to operate or work against
Term
Mirth
Definition
frivolity; gaiety; laughter
Term
Misanthrope
Definition
A person who dislikes others
Term
Misnomer
Definition
a wrong or inaccurate name or designation
Term
Missive (noun)
Definition
a written note or letter
Term
Modicum
Definition
a small quantity of a particular thing, esp. something considered desirable or valuable
Term
Mollify
Definition
To calm or make less severe
Term
Molt (verb)
Definition
to shed hair, skin, or an outer layer periodically
Term
Monastic
Definition
extremely plain or secluded, as in a monastery
Term
Monotony
Definition
Lack of variation
Term
Mores
Definition
fixed customs or manners; moral attitudes
Term
Multifarious
Definition
diverse
Term
Myopia
Definition
nearsightedness; lack of imagination, foresight, or intellectual insight
Term
Myopic
Definition
lacking imagination, foresight, or intellectual insight
Term
Nadir
Definition
lowest point
Term
Naive
Definition
Lacking sophistication or experience
Term
Nascent
Definition
starting to develop; coming into existence
Term
Negligible
Definition
so small or unimportant as to be not worth considering; insignificant
Term
Neologism
Definition
new word or expression
Term
Neophyte
Definition
a novice or beginner
Term
Nepotism
Definition
the practice among those with power or influence of favoring relatives or friends, esp. by giving them jobs
Term
Nettle (verb)
Definition
to irritate
Term
Neurotic
Definition
abnormally sensitive, obsessive, or tense and anxious
Term
Noisome
Definition
stinking; putrid
Term
Nominal
Definition
existing in name only; negligible
Term
Non Sequitur
Definition
a conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement.
Term
Normative
Definition
establishing, relating to, or deriving from a standard or norm, esp. of behavior
Term
Nuance
Definition
a subtle expression of meaning or quality
Term
Numismatics
Definition
coin collecting
Term
Obdurate
Definition
Hardened in feeling; Resistant to persuasion
Term
Oblique
Definition
indirect or evasive; misleading or devious
Term
Obsequious
Definition
overly submissive and eager to please
Term
Obstinate
Definition
Stubborn, unyielding
Term
Obviate
Definition
To prevent; to make unnecessary
Term
Occlude
Definition
To stop up; to prevent the passage of
Term
Ochlocracy
Definition
Government by a mob; mob rule
Term
Officious
Definition
too helpful, meddlesome
Term
Omnibus
Definition
An anthology of the works of one author or of writings on related subjects
Term
Onerous
Definition
Troublesome and oppressive; burdensome
Term
Opine
Definition
to express an opinion
Term
Opprobrium
Definition
Public disgrace
Term
Orotund
Definition
pompous
Term
Ossify
Definition
to change into bone; to become hardened or set in a rigidly conventional pattern
Term
Ostensible
Definition
stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so
Term
Ostentation
Definition
excessive showiness
Term
Oubliette
Definition
A secret dungeon with access only through a trapdoor in its ceiling.
Term
Overwrought
Definition
agitated, overdone
Term
Palatial
Definition
relating to a palace, magnificent
Term
Palliate
Definition
to make less serious; to ease
Term
Pallid
Definition
Lacking color or liveliness
Term
Paltry
Definition
(of an amount) small or meager, petty; trivial
Term
Panache
Definition
flamboyance or dash in style and action; verve
Term
Panegyric
Definition
elaborate praise; formal hymn of praise
Term
Panopoly
Definition
impressive array
Term
Paradigmatic
Definition
of the nature of a paradigm or model
Term
Paradox
Definition
a contradiction or dilemma
Term
Paragon
Definition
Model of excellence or perfection
Term
Paragon
Definition
a model of excellence or perfection
Term
Parapatetic
Definition
wandering from place to place, especially on foot
Term
Pare (verb)
Definition
to trim off excess, to reduce
Term
Parley (verb)
Definition
a discussion, usually between enemies
Term
Parochially
Definition
having a limited or narrow outlook or scope
Term
Parry (verb)
Definition
to ward off or deflect, especially by a quick-witted answer
Term
Pastiche
Definition
a piece of literature or music imitating other works
Term
Pathogenic
Definition
causing disease
Term
Paucity
Definition
smallness of quantity; scarcity; scantiness
Term
Pedant
Definition
Someone who shows off learning
Term
Peevish
Definition
easily irritated, esp. by unimportant things
Term
Pejorative
Definition
expressing contempt or disapproval
Term
Peregrinate
Definition
to wander from place to place; to travel, especially on foot
Term
Perfidious
Definition
Willing to betray one's trust
Term
Perfunctory
Definition
Done in a routine way; indifferent
Term
Permeate
Definition
to penetrate
Term
Pernicious
Definition
having a harmful effect, esp. in a gradual or subtle way
Term
Perspicacious
Definition
shrewd, astute, or keen-witted
Term
Pertinacious
Definition
persistent, stubborn
Term
Philanthropy
Definition
Charity; A desire or effort to promote goodness
Term
Philistine
Definition
a person who is hostile or indifferent to culture and the arts, or who has no understanding of them
Term
Phlegmatic
Definition
(of a person) having an unemotional and stolidly calm disposition
Term
Plastic
Definition
Able to be molded, altered, or bent
Term
Platitudes
Definition
remark or statement, esp. one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful
Term
Plebeian
Definition
(in ancient Rome) a commoner; a member of the lower social classes
Term
Plethora
Definition
Excess
Term
Plucky
Definition
having or showing determined courage in the face of difficulties
Term
Poignant
Definition
evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret;
Term
Polymath
Definition
a person of wide-ranging knowledge or learning
Term
Pomp
Definition
ceremony and splendid display, esp. at a public event
Term
Pompous
Definition
affectedly and irritatingly grand, solemn, or self-important
Term
Portent
Definition
a sign or warning that something, esp. something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen
Term
Postulate
Definition
suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of (something) as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief
Term
Prattle
Definition
meaningless, foolish talk
Term
Precipitate
Definition
To throw violently or bring about abruptly; Lacking deliberation
Term
Preclude
Definition
prevent from happening; make impossible
Term
Precocious
Definition
(of a child) having developed certain abilities or proclivities at an earlier age than usual; (of behavior or ability) indicative of such development
Term
Predilection
Definition
a preference or special liking for something; a bias in favor of something
Term
Presume
Definition
suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability; take for granted that something exists or is the case
Term
Prevaricate
Definition
to lie or deviate from the truth; speak or act in an evasive way
Term
Pro Forma
Definition
as a matter of form or politeness
Term
Proboscis
Definition
the nose of a mammal, esp. when it is long and mobile, such as the trunk of an elephant or the snout of a tapir.
Term
Prodigal
Definition
Lavish, wasteful
Term
Profligate
Definition
currupt; degenerate
Term
Proliferate
Definition
to increase in number quickly
Term
Propitiate
Definition
To conciliate, to appease
Term
Proprieties
Definition
the details or rules of behavior conventionally considered to be correct
Term
Protracted
Definition
lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual
Term
Prowess
Definition
skill or expertise in a particular activity or field
Term
Prudence
Definition
Wisdom, caution, or restraint
Term
Prudent
Definition
acting with or showing care and thought for the future
Term
Puerile
Definition
childishly silly and trivial
Term
Punctilious
Definition
showing great attention to detail or correct behavior
Term
Pungent
Definition
Sharp and irritating to the senses
Term
Querulous
Definition
inclined to complain, irritable
Term
Quiescent
Definition
Motionless
Term
Quiescent
Definition
motionless
Term
Quixotic
Definition
overly idealistic; impractical
Term
Quotidian
Definition
occurring daily; commonplace
Term
Raconteur
Definition
a witty, skillful storyteller
Term
Rapacious
Definition
aggressively greedy or grasping
Term
Rarefy
Definition
To make thinner or sparser
Term
Recuse (without object)
Definition
to withdraw from a position of judging so as to avoid any semblance of partiality or bias.
Term
Redress (noun)
Definition
relief from wrong or injury
Term
Redress (verb)
Definition
remedy or set right (an undesirable or unfair situation)
Term
Rejoinder
Definition
a reply, esp. a sharp or witty one
Term
Remit
Definition
to send money; Chantel remits payment through PayPal
Term
Repast
Definition
meal or mealtime
Term
Replete
Definition
abundantly supplied; complete
Term
Repose
Definition
relaxation; leisure
Term
Repudiate
Definition
To reject the validity of
Term
Reticent
Definition
Silent, reserved
Term
Reticule
Definition
chiefly historical a woman's small handbag, originally netted and typically having a drawstring and decorated with embroidery or beading.
Term
Rhetoric
Definition
Effective writing or speaking
Term
Ribald
Definition
Humorous in a vulgar way; referring to sexual matters in an amusingly rude or irreverent way
Term
Ridicule (verb)
Definition
subject (someone or something) to mockery and derision
Term
Rococo
Definition
very highly ornamented; relating to the 18th century artistic style using heavy ornamentation
Term
Rustic
Definition
rural
Term
Sacrosanct
Definition
extremely sacred; beyond criticism
Term
Sagacious
Definition
shrewd; wise
Term
Salient
Definition
prominent or conspicuous; of notable significance
Term
Salubrious
Definition
health-giving; healthy
Term
Sanguine
Definition
optimistic or positive, esp. in an apparently bad or difficult situation
Term
Scorn (noun)
Definition
the feeling or belief that someone or something is worthless or despicable; contempt
Term
Scorn (verb)
Definition
feel or express contempt or derision for
Term
Secluded
Definition
(of a place) not seen or visited by many people; sheltered and private
Term
Semblance
Definition
the outward appearance or apparent form of something, esp. when the reality is different
Term
Seraphic
Definition
angelic; sweet
Term
Shirk
Definition
avoid or neglect (a duty or responsibility)
Term
Shrewd
Definition
having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute
Term
Sin qua non
Definition
"[a condition] without which it could not be," or "but for..." or "without which [there is] nothing".
Term
Sly
Definition
having or showing a cunning and deceitful nature; (of a remark, glance, or facial expression) showing in an insinuating way that one has some secret knowledge that may be harmful or embarrassing; (of an action) surreptitious
Term
Snafu
Definition
a confused or chaotic state; a mess
Term
Sobriquet
Definition
a person's nickname
Term
Solemn
Definition
formal and dignified; serious
Term
Sophisticated
Definition
(of a machine, system, or technique) developed to a high degree of complexity; (of a person or their thoughts, reactions, and understanding) aware of and able to interpret complex issues; subtle:
Term
Soporific
Definition
Causing sleep or lethargy
Term
Sordid
Definition
involving ignoble actions and motives; arousing moral distaste and contemp
Term
Specious
Definition
Deceptively attractive; Seemingly plausible but fallacious
Term
Stilted
Definition
(of a manner of talking or writing) stiff and self-conscious or unnatural
Term
Stolid
Definition
Unemotional; Lacking sensitivity
Term
Sublime
Definition
Lofty or grand
Term
Subsume
Definition
include or absorb (something) in something else
Term
Supercilious
Definition
behaving or looking as though one thinks one is superior to others
Term
Superlative
Definition
The highest kind or order
Term
Supervene
Definition
occur later than a specified or implied event or action, typically in such a way as to change the situation
Term
Surcease
Definition
cessation: relief or consolation
Term
Sycophantic
Definition
behaving or done in an obsequious way in order to gain advantage
Term
Syllogism
Definition
an instance of a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn (whether validly or not) from two given or assumed propositions (premises), each of which shares a term with the conclusion, and shares a common or middle term not present in the conclusion
Term
Taciturn
Definition
Silent, not talkative
Term
Tantamount
Definition
equivalent in seriousness to; virtually the same as
Term
Tenacious
Definition
tending to keep a firm hold of something; clinging or adhering closely
Term
Tirade
Definition
Long, harsh speech or verbal attack
Term
To Blight
Definition
to afflict, to destroy
Term
Torpor
Definition
Extreme mental and physical sluggishness
Term
Trammel (verb)
Definition
deprive of freedom of action
Term
Transitory
Definition
Temporary, lasting a brief time
Term
Trite
Definition
(of a remark, opinion, or idea) overused and consequently of little import; lacking originality or freshness
Term
Unmitigated
Definition
absolute; unqualified
Term
Unscrupulous
Definition
having or showing no moral principles; not honest or fair
Term
Vacillate
Definition
alternate or waver between different opinions or actions; be indecisive
Term
Vacillate
Definition
To sway physically; To be indecisive
Term
Venal
Definition
showing or motivated by susceptibility to bribery
Term
Venerate
Definition
To respect deeply
Term
Veracity
Definition
Filled with truth and accuracy
Term
Verbose
Definition
Wordy
Term
Verve
Definition
vigor and spirit or enthusiasm
Term
Vex
Definition
To annoy
Term
Vigor
Definition
physical strength and good health; effort, energy, and enthusiasm
Term
Vis-á-vis
Definition
in relation to; with regard to; as compared to; as opposed to
Term
Vitiate
Definition
spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of
Term
Vitriolic
Definition
filled with bitter criticism or malice
Term
Volatile
Definition
Easily aroused or changeable; lively or explosive
Term
Waver
Definition
To fluctuate between choices
Term
Welter
Definition
(verb) move in a turbulent fashion; (noun) a large number of items in no order; a confused mass
Term
Whimsical
Definition
Acting in a fanciful or capricious manner; Unpredictable
Term
Wise
Definition
having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment
Term
Wry
Definition
using or expressing dry, esp. mocking, humor
Term
gen (root)
Definition
birth, creation, race, kind (genetics)
Term
gn (root)
Definition
know (recognize)
Term
gno (root)
Definition
know (agnostic)
Term
grad (root)
Definition
to step (degrade)
Term
grat (root)
Definition
pleasing (congratulations)
Term
gress (root)
Definition
to step (progress)
Term
her (root)
Definition
to stick (adhere)
Term
hes (root)
Definition
to stick (adhesive)
Term
heur (root)
Definition
(greek) to find
Term
hyper (root)
Definition
over, excessive (hyperactive)
Term
hypo (root)
Definition
under, beneath, less than (hypodermic)
Term
idio (root)
Definition
one's own (idiot, idiosyncrasy)
Term
im (root)
Definition
in, into (implicit) or not, without (impartial)
Term
in (root)
Definition
in, into (influx) or not, without (innocuous)
Term
ject (root)
Definition
to throw (inject)
Term
junct (root)
Definition
to meet, to join (junction)
Term
jur (root)
Definition
to swear (perjury)
Term
lav (root)
Definition
to wash (lavatory)
Term
lect (root)
Definition
to select, to choose (collect)
Term
leg (root)
Definition
to select, to choose (legislate)
Term
lev (root)
Definition
lift, light, rise (relieve)
Term
loc (root)
Definition
word, speech (elocution)
Term
log (root)
Definition
word, speech (dialogue)
Term
loqu (root)
Definition
word, speech (colloquial)
Term
luc (root)
Definition
light (lucid)
Term
lud (root)
Definition
to play (ludicrous)
Term
lum (root)
Definition
light (illuminate)
Term
lus (root)
Definition
to play (illusion) OR light (illustrate)
Term
lut (root)
Definition
to wash (dilute)
Term
luv (root)
Definition
to wash (antediluvian)
Term
mag (root)
Definition
big (magnify)
Term
maj (root)
Definition
big (majority)
Term
male (root)
Definition
bad, ill, evil, wrong (malediction)
Term
man (root)
Definition
hand (manual)
Term
max (root)
Definition
big (maxim)
Term
min (root)
Definition
small (minute) or to project, to hang over (eminent)
Term
mis (root)
Definition
to send (transmit)
Term
misc (root)
Definition
mixed (miscellaneous)
Term
mit (root)
Definition
to send (remit)
Term
mon (root)
Definition
to remind; to warn (monument)
Term
monit (root)
Definition
to remind; to warn (monitor)
Term
morph (root)
Definition
shape (metamorphosis)
Term
mort (root)
Definition
death (immortal)
Term
mut (root)
Definition
change (mutation)
Term
nai (root)
Definition
to be born (naive)
Term
nas (root)
Definition
to be born (nascent)
Term
nat (root)
Definition
to be born (natural)
Term
nic (root)
Definition
harm (nicotene?)
Term
noc (root)
Definition
harm (innocent)
Term
nom (root)
Definition
rule, order (astronomy) or name (nominal)
Term
nou (root)
Definition
new (nouveau riche)
Term
noun (root)
Definition
name (pronoun)
Term
nounc (root)
Definition
to announce (pronounce)
Term
nov (root)
Definition
new (novice)
Term
nown (root)
Definition
name (renown)
Term
nox (root)
Definition
harm (noxious)
Term
nunc (root)
Definition
to announce (enunciation)
Term
nym (root)
Definition
name (synonym)
Term
ob (root)
Definition
against, over (obese)
Term
oc (root)
Definition
to, toward, against, over (occur, occasion, occlude)
Term
of (root)
Definition
toward, to, against, over (offer?)
Term
omni (root)
Definition
all (omnibus)
Term
op (root)
Definition
toward, to, against, over (operation)
Term
or (root)
Definition
mouth (oral)
Term
pac (root)
Definition
peace (pacify)
Term
pan (root)
Definition
all, everyone (pandemic)
Term
par (root)
Definition
equal (parity)
Term
para (root)
Definition
next to, beside (parallel)
Term
pas (root)
Definition
feeling, suffering, disease (compassion)
Term
pat (root)
Definition
feeling, suffering, disease (patriot)
Term
path (root)
Definition
feeling, suffering, disease (sympathy)
Term
pau (root)
Definition
few, little, poor (pauper)
Term
ped (root)
Definition
child, education (pedagogue) or foot (pedal)
Term
pen (root)
Definition
to pay; to compensate (penal)
Term
pend (root)
Definition
to hang; to weight; to pay (depend)
Term
pens (root)
Definition
to hang; to weight; to pay (compensate)
Term
per (root)
Definition
completely (persistent)
Term
peri (root)
Definition
around (perimeter)
Term
pet (root)
Definition
to go; to seek; to strive (appetite)
Term
pit (root)
Definition
to go; to seek; to strive (capital)
Term
plac (root)
Definition
to please (placate)
Term
ple (root)
Definition
to fill (complete)
Term
plex (root)
Definition
to fold, twist, tangle, or bend (complex)
Term
plic (root)
Definition
to fold, twist, tangle, or bend (implicit)
Term
ply (root)
Definition
to fold, twist, tangle, or bend (supply?)
Term
po (root)
Definition
few, little, poor (poverty)
Term
pod (root)
Definition
foot (podium)
Term
poign (root)
Definition
to point; to prick (poignant)
Term
pon (root)
Definition
to put, to place (component)
Term
port (root)
Definition
to carry (import)
Term
pos (root)
Definition
to put, to place (expose)
Term
pound (root)
Definition
to put, to place (expound)
Term
pov (root)
Definition
few, little, poor (poverty)
Term
pre (root)
Definition
before (previous, precursor)
Term
prec (root)
Definition
pray (deprecation)
Term
prehend (root)
Definition
to take; to get; to seize (comprehend)
Term
prise (root)
Definition
to take; to get; to seize (surprise)
Term
pro (root)
Definition
much, for, a lot (profuse, provide)
Term
prob (root)
Definition
to prove, to test (probe)
Term
pu (root)
Definition
few, little, poor (puerile)
Term
pug (root)
Definition
to fight (pugnacious)
Term
pun (root)
Definition
to pay; to compensate (punitive)
Term
punc (root)
Definition
to point; to prick (puncture)
Term
pung (root)
Definition
to point; to prick (pungent)
Term
que (root)
Definition
to seek (query)
Term
qui (root)
Definition
quiet (tranquil)
Term
quis (root)
Definition
to seek (inquisitive)
Term
rid (root)
Definition
to laugh (riddle)
Term
ris (root)
Definition
to laugh (derision)
Term
rog (root)
Definition
to ask (surrogate)
Term
sal (root)
Definition
to leap, to jump (salient)
Term
sanct (root)
Definition
sacred (sanctify)
Term
sault (root)
Definition
to leap, to jump (assault)
Term
sci (root)
Definition
to know (conscience)
Term
scrip (root)
Definition
to write (script)
Term
se (root)
Definition
apart (select)
Term
sec (root)
Definition
to follow (second)
Term
secr (root)
Definition
sacred (secret)
Term
sed (root)
Definition
to sit; to be still; to plan; to plot (sediment)
Term
sens (root)
Definition
to feel; to be aware (sense)
Term
sent (root)
Definition
to feel; to be aware (sentiment)
Term
sequ (root)
Definition
to follow (sequence)
Term
sess (root)
Definition
to sit; to be still; to plan; to plot (assessor)
Term
sid (root)
Definition
to sit; to be still; to plan; to plot (resident)
Term
sil (root)
Definition
to leap, to jump (resilient)
Term
sol (root)
Definition
to loosen; to free (dissolve)
Term
spec (root)
Definition
to look; to see (speculation)
Term
spic (root)
Definition
to look; to see (suspicious)
Term
sta (root)
Definition
to stand; to be in place (static)
Term
sti (root)
Definition
to stand; to be in place (obstinate)
Term
sua (root)
Definition
smooth (persuade)
Term
sub (root)
Definition
below (submissive)
Term
sult (root)
Definition
to leap, to jump (desultory)
Term
sup (root)
Definition
below (supposition)
Term
super (root)
Definition
above (superlative)
Term
tac (root)
Definition
to be silent (tacit)
Term
tain (root)
Definition
to hold (detain)
Term
ten (root)
Definition
to hold (tenure)
Term
tend (root)
Definition
to stretch, to thin (distend)
Term
tens (root)
Definition
to stretch, to thin (tension)
Term
tent (root)
Definition
to hold (tentative) or to stretch, to thin (contentious)
Term
tenu (root)
Definition
to stretch, to thin (attenuate)
Term
tic (root)
Definition
to be silent (reticent)
Term
tin (root)
Definition
to hold (pertinacious)
Term
tract (root)
Definition
to drag; to pull; to draw (tractor, distract)
Term
trans (root)
Definition
across (transgress)
Term
us (root)
Definition
to use (abuse)
Term
ut (root)
Definition
to use (utilitarian)
Term
ven (root)
Definition
to come or to move forward (convene)
Term
vent (root)
Definition
to come or to move forward (prevent)
Term
ver (root)
Definition
truth (verdict)
Term
verd (root)
Definition
green (verdant)
Term
vers (root)
Definition
to turn (controversy)
Term
vert (root)
Definition
to turn (revert)
Term
vi (root)
Definition
life (vivid)
Term
vid (root)
Definition
to see (video)
Term
vil (root)
Definition
base, mean (vilify)
Term
vis (root)
Definition
to see (adviser)
Term
voc (root)
Definition
to call (vocabulary)
Term
vok (root)
Definition
to call (invoke)
Term
vol (root)
Definition
to wish (voluntary)
Term
vor (root)
Definition
to eat (carnivorous)
Term
Requite (verb)
Definition
to return or repay
Term
Restive (adj.)
Definition
impatient, uneasy or restless
Term
Sedition
Definition
behavior that promotes rebellion or civil disorder against the state
Term
Dour (adj.)
Definition
relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy in manner or appearance
Term
Scintilla
Definition
trace amount
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