Shared Flashcard Set

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Vocabulary
List of new words learned recently
910
English
Undergraduate 4
11/22/2012

Additional English Flashcards

 


 

Cards

Term

Assuage

 

Definition

To make something less severe.

 

Like many people, Phillip used alcohol to assuage his sense of meaninglessness and despair.

Term
Attenuate
Definition

to reduce in force or degree; to weaken

 

The Bill of Rights attenuated the traditional power of government to change laws at will.

Term
Banal
Definition

predictable, cliched, boring

 

He used banal phrases like "Have  a nice day" or 'another day, another dollar."

Term
Bombastic
Definition

pompous in speech and manner

 

Mussolini's speeches were bombastic and his boasting had no basis in fact.

Term
Capricious
Definition

changing one's mind quickly and often

 

Queen Elizabeth I was capricious; her courtiers could never be sure which of their number would catch her fancy.

Term

Castigate

 

Definition

to punish or criticize harshly

 

Americans are amazed at how harshly the authorities castigate perpetrators of minor crimes.

Term
Chicanery
Definition

deception by means of craft and guile

 

Dishonest used car salesmen often use chicanery to sell their beat up old cars.

Term
Cogent
Definition

convincing and well reasoned

 

 

Term
Cogitate
Definition
to think deeply
Term
Credulous
Definition
too trusting, gullible
Term
Deference
Definition

respect, courtesy

 

The young clerk treated the SC justice with the utmost deference.

Term
Credulity
Definition
the quality of being credulous.
Term
Deride
Definition
to speak of or treat with contempt, to mock.
Term
Derisive
Definition
in a mocking manner
Term
Diatribe
Definition
an abusive, condemnatory speech
Term
Desultory
Definition
jumping from one thing to another, not connected.
Term
Diffident
Definition
lacking self-confidence, timorous, timid, shy.
Term
Dilatory
Definition
intended to delay.
Term
Dilettante
Definition
someone with an amateurish and superficial interest in a topic.
Term
Disabuse
Definition
to set right.
Term
Disparate
Definition
fundamentally different.
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 sounds.
Term
Eclectic
Definition
selecting from or made up from various sources.
Term
Elegy
Definition
a sorrowful poem or speech
Term
Enervate
Definition
to reduce in strength
Term
Engender
Definition
to produce, cause or bring about.
Term
Ephemeral
Definition
lasting a short time
Term
Equivocate
Definition
to use expressions of double meaning in order to mislead.
Term
Esoteric
Definition
known or understood only by a few.
Term
Estimable
Definition
admirable
Term
Exacerbate
Definition
to make worse
Term
Exculpate
Definition
to clear from any blame.
Term
Exigent
Definition
urgent
Term
Exonerate
Definition
to clear from blame
Term
Fawn
Definition
to grovel, bootlick, pander, toady
Term
Fervid
Definition
intensely emotional, feverish
Term
Florid
Definition
excessively decorated
Term
Foment
Definition

to incite, or arouse

eg: foment rebellion, mutiny.

Term
Frugality
Definition
a tendency to be thrifty or cheap.
Term
Parsimony
Definition
frugal
Term
Garrulous
Definition
tending to talk a lot.
Term
Gregarious
Definition
outgoing, social
Term
Imperturbable
Definition
not easily disturbed.
Term
Impetuous
Definition
quick to act without thinking 
Term
Impervious
Definition
impossible to penetrate
Term
Implacable
Definition
unable to be calmed down or made peaceful.
Term
Inchoate
Definition
not fully developed.
Term
Inimical
Definition
Extremely Hostile, unfriendly.
Term
Intransigent
Definition
uncompromising
Term
Inundate
Definition
to flood
Term
Irascible
Definition
easily made angry
Term
Cantankerous
Definition
easily made angry.
Term
Laconic
Definition
using few words.
Term
Loquacious
Definition
talkative, garrulous
Term
Malinger
Definition
to evade responsibilty by pretending to be ill.
Term
Misanthrope
Definition
one who dislikes other people.
Term
Mitigate
Definition

soften, make less severe

eg: A judge may mitigate a sentence based on lack of evidence.

Term
Mollify
Definition
to calm or make less severe
Term
Obdurate, Obstinate
Definition
hardened in feeling, resistant to persuasion.
Term
Obsequious
Definition
overly submissive and eager to please.
Term
Obviate
Definition
to prevent; to make unnecessary
Term
Occlude
Definition
to stop up;to prevent the passage of
Term
Onerous
Definition
troublesome and oppressive
Term
Opprobrium
Definition
public disgrace
Term
Ostentation
Definition
excessively showy
Term
Paragon
Definition
a model of excellence.
Term
Pedant
Definition
one who shows off learning
Term
Pedantic
Definition
the quality possessed by someone who is a pedant.
Term
Perfidious
Definition
willing to betray one's trust.
Term
Pefunctory
Definition
done in a routine way, indifferent manner.
Term
Placate
Definition
to soothe, pacify
Term
Plethora
Definition
an excess off something.
Term
Pragmatic
Definition
Practical as opposed to ideal.
Term
Precipitate
Definition
to throw violently, bring about abruptly, lacking deliberation or thought.
Term
Prevaricate
Definition
to lie or vary from the truth.
Term
Perjure
Definition
To prevaricate or lie, to twist the facts.
Term
Prodigal
Definition
lavish and wasteful.
Term
Proliferate
Definition
to increase in number very quickly.
Term
Prolific
Definition
very productive
Term
Propititiate
Definition
to appease
Term
Propriety
Definition
correct or prompt behavior.
Term
Prudence
Definition
Caution, wisdom
Term
Quiscent
Definition
motionless, inactive, silent.
Term
Rarefy
Definition
to make less dense
Term
Repudiate
Definition
to reject the validity of something.
Term
Reticent
Definition
Reserved, silent
Term
Rhetoric
Definition
effective writing or speech.
Term
Soporific
Definition
causing sleep or lethargy
Term
Specious
Definition
deceptively attractive; seemingly plausible but fallacious in reality.
Term
Stigma
Definition
a mark of shame or discredit.
Term
Stolid
Definition
unemotional; lacking in sensitivity.
Term
Sublime
Definition
lofty or grand
Term
Tacit
Definition
something done without the use of words.
Term
Taciturn
Definition
silent, not talkative
Term
Tirade
Definition
long, harsh speech or verbal attack.
Term
Torpor
Definition
extreme mental or physical sluggishness.
Term
Vacillate
Definition
to sway physically, to be indecisive.
Term
Veracity
Definition
to be filled with truth and accuracy.
Term
Facetious
Definition
treating a serious matter in a joking manner.
Term
Quotidian
Definition
something that happens daily, commonplace
Term
Nub 
Definition
the main idea, the crux or gist of something.
Term
Delineate
Definition
To draw the outline of, to sketch, to describe something in words, gestures or pictorially.
Term
Prod
Definition

to poke an animal so as to make it go faster (literal)

to cause someone to get going (metaphorical)

Term
Timorous
Definition
Diffident, lacking in confidence.
Term
Trite
Definition
Commonplace, hackneyed, banal or pedestrian
Term
Prosaic
Definition
comes from the word prose and literally means "like prose". Something lacking imagination or novelty.
Term
Sapid
Definition
having a strong or pleasant taste
Term
Sequester
Definition
to hide away from the public
Term
Auburn
Definition
reddish brown
Term
Maudlin
Definition
self pitying or tearfully sentimental
Term
Vicissitude
Definition
A complete change of circumstances
Term
Compendious
Definition
stating briefly or succinctly
Term
Desuetude
Definition
a state of inactivity or disuse.
Term
Egregious
Definition
offensive, remarkably bad
Term
Aver
Definition
to state or assert clearly.
Term
Broach
Definition
sudden veering of the ship with bad consequences. As a verb it means to raise a sensitive subject for discussion.
Term
Corral
Definition
Place where horses are kept.
Term
Polemic
Definition
A contentious argument that debates the truth of a belief over the other.
Term
Abrogate
Definition
Abolish, repeal or do away
Term
Sedulous
Definition
showing dedication and diligence
Term
Insularity
Definition
the state of being isolated or detached.
Term
Moniker, Sobriquet
Definition
Nickname
Term
Curt
Definition
to be brief in words in a rude manner.
Term
Reprisal, Retribution
Definition
Payment you may require from someone for that damages that they did to you.
Term
Restitution
Definition
The restoration of something lost or stolen to its proper owner.
Term
Expiation
Definition
atonement or compensation for a wrongdoing.
Term
Equanimity
Definition
mental calmness, composure and evenness of temper in a difficult situation.
Term
Sangfroid
Definition
literally means cold blooded in French, metaphorically means calm and composed.
Term
Sanguine
Definition
cheerfully optimistic.
Term
Sanguinary
Definition
involving or causing much bloodshed, sanguineous, bloodthirsty, gory.
Term
Philistine
Definition
An uncultured, unrefined and uncouth person. A person not concerned with arts, culture or music.
Term
Nonchalant
Definition
feeling or appearing calm and relaxed, indifferent, unconcerned, negligent or careless.
Term
Boor
Definition
literally means peasant, but metaphorically means a person with no sense of etiquette or decorum.
Term
Proscribe
Definition
forbid especially by law.
Term
Hoodwink
Definition
deceive or trick someone.
Term
Rancor
Definition
Bitter hatred
Term
Morosely
Definition
gloomy, sullen, surly, sulky, glum or somber.
Term
Droned
Definition
make a low continuous humming sound.
Term
Lumber
Definition
moving in a slow, heavy, awkward manner.
Term
Brusquely
Definition
abruptly in a rude manner.
Term
Pantomime
Definition
communication by means of gesture and facial expressions.
Term
Yammered
Definition
complain peevishly or whine.
Term
Scuttled
Definition
to run hurriedly or furtively with short quick steps.
Term
Furtively 
Definition
secretly, surreptitously, sneakily.
Term
Cesspool
Definition
a disgusting or corrupt place
Term
Contiguous
Definition
adjacent, abutting, touching each other.
Term
Incongruous
Definition
not in harmony, not in place, inconsistent.
Term
Quixotic
Definition
idealistic, romantic, fanciful, impractical, unrealistic.
Term
Waffle
Definition
to willfully mislead, to speak or write evasively.
Term
Posterity
Definition
All future generations.
Term
Utilitarian
Definition
practical, pragmatic and functional.
Term
Egalitarian
Definition
a belief in the tenet that all people are equal pertaining to economic, political and legal rights.
Term
Tenet
Definition
an opinion, doctrine or principle.
Term
Doctrinaire
Definition
a person who firmly and absolutely believes in his principles, ideas without any regard for its practicality.
Term
Conjecture
Definition
An inference that is based on incomplete or inconclusive evidence.
Term
Surmise
Definition
to infer, to conjecture.
Term
Digits
Definition
fingers.
Term
Capitulate
Definition
to surrender, to submit, yield, give in, succumb, resign or to relinquish.
Term
Retort
Definition
to talk back, to reply in a quick and direct manner.
Term
Vernacular
Definition
special language of a particular region or profession.
Term
Gobble-de-gook
Definition
nonsensical talk or gibberish
Term
Gobble
Definition
to eat or devour in a greedy manner, voracious, ravenous.
Term
Rapacious
Definition
greedy, plundering.
Term
Avarice
Definition
an extreme desire for wealth.
Term
Profusion
Definition
an abundance or large amount of something
Term
Privy
Definition
sharing in the knowledge of something.
Term
Levity
Definition
humor or frivolity especially in a facetious manner.
Term
Epigram
Definition
a pithy saying or remark.
Term
Wistful
Definition
showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.
Term
Swank
Definition
display one's wealth, knowledge or achievements in a way that is intended to impress others.
Term
Wan
Definition
pale and giving the impression of illness or exhaustion.
Term
Gaiety
Definition
the state of being light hearted or cheerful.
Term
Peremptory
Definition
insisting on immediate attention or obedience especially in a brusquely imperious way.
Term
Sauntered
Definition
walk in a slow, relaxed manner without hurry or effort.
Term
Languid
Definition
slow, relaxed, lazy or peaceful.
Term
Corpulent
Definition
fat, stoutness.
Term
Tortuous
Definition
with twists and turns, not straightforward.
Term
Swoon
Definition
faint from extreme emotion.
Term
Jaunty
Definition
having or expressing a lively, cheerful and self confident manner.
Term
Conscientious
Definition
wishing to do what is right, especially to do one's work or duty well and thoroughly, scrupulously, religiously.
Term
Subterfuge
Definition
deceit used in order to achieve one's goal.
Term
Insolent
Definition
showing a rude or arrogant lack of respect.
Term
Portend
Definition
Be a sign or warning that something momentous or calamitous is likely to happen.
Term
Volition
Definition
The faculty or power of using one's will.
Term
Cohort
Definition
A group of people banded together or treated as a group.
Term
Cadres
Definition
A small group of people usually trained for a particular purpose or profession.
Term

Salient

 

Definition
most noticeable or important.
Term
Labyrinth
Definition
a maze, an intricate and confusing arrangement.
Term
Punctilious
Definition
showing great attention to detail or correct behavior.
Term
Ineffable
Definition
too great or extreme to be expressed in words.
Term
Turgid
Definition
abnormally distended especially due to the accumulation of fluids in the body. Also means bombastic speech.
Term
Senile
Definition
having or showing weaknesses of old age.
Term
Chafe
Definition
make a part of the body sore by rubbing against it.
Term
Obtrusive
Definition
intrusive
Term
Harrowing
Definition
something that causes distress
Term
Cognate
Definition
akin, related
Term
Fickle
Definition
characterized by changeableness, whimsical or capricious.
Term
Unctuous
Definition
excessively flattering.
Term
Malign
Definition
to slander, to smear, to defame, to speak evil of.
Term
Unaffected
Definition
sincere.
Term
Benison
Definition
Blessing.
Term
Promulgate
Definition
To proclaim.
Term
Carouse
Definition
to revel, party.
Term
Abet
Definition
to aid, act as accomplice in something wrong.
Term
Abstemious
Definition
moderate in appetite
Term
Abstruse
Definition
difficult to understand or comprehend
Term
Accost
Definition
to approach and speak to someone.
Term
Adroit
Definition
skillful, accomplished, highly comeptent in using the hands or the mind
Term
Aerie
Definition
nook or nest built high in the air by a bird of prey.
Term
Alacrity
Definition
cheerful willingness, eagerness speed.
Term
Allusion
Definition
indirect reference
Term
Altruism
Definition
unselfish concern for others
Term
Ambivalence
Definition
Attitude of uncertainty, conflicting emotions.
Term
Amenable
Definition
open and responsive to suggestion; easily persuaded or controlled
Term
Anodyne
Definition
something that calms or soothes pain
Term
Aphasia
Definition
inability to speak or use words due to brain damage.
Term
Apothegm
Definition
a short, instructive saying
Term
Aplomb
Definition
self confidence or assurance especially when in a demanding situation.
Term
Approbation
Definition
praise; official approval
Term
Arraign
Definition
to call to court to answer a charge.
Term
Asinine
Definition
lacking intelligence or sound judgement
Term
Asperity
Definition
Harshness of tone or manner.
Term
Aspersion
Definition
An attack on the reputation or integrity of someone or something.
Term
Assail
Definition
to attack or insult
Term
Assonance
Definition
resemblance in sound, partly rhyming
Term
Assiduous
Definition
diligent, persistent and hardworking.
Term
Baleful
Definition
harmful with evil intentions.
Term
Balk
Definition
hesitate or unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking.
Term
Bastion
Definition
Stronghold or Fortification
Term
Becloud
Definition
to confuse; darken with clouds.
Term
Belabor
Definition
Argue or elaborate something in excessive detail.
Term
Belfry
Definition
A bell tower in which a bell is hung.
Term
Bellicose
Definition
demonstrating aggression and a willingness to fight.
Term
Belligerent (v)
Definition
Hostile and aggressive
Term
Belligerent (n)
Definition
A nation or person engaged in war or conflict as recognized by international law.
Term
Bemuse
Definition
Puzzle, confuse or bewilder.
Term
Benefactor
Definition
A person who gives money or other help to a person or cause.
Term
Beneficent
Definition
Generous or doing good, producing good results.
Term
Benighted
Definition
In a state of pitiful or contemptible intellectual or moral ignorance typically owing to a lack of opportunity.
Term
Betoken
Definition
be a sign of something or indicate something.
Term
Bevy
Definition
A large group of people or things of a particular kind.
Term
Bifurcate
Definition
Divide into two parts
Term
Bilious
Definition
Affected or associated with nausea or vomiting.
Term
Bilk
Definition
Obtain or withold money by deceit or without justification; cheat or defraud.
Term
Billet
Definition
A non military facility, where soldiers are lodged temporarily.
Term
Biped
Definition
two footed animals
Term
Blanch
Definition
make white or pale by extracting color, bleach.
Term
Blandish
Definition
coax someone with kind words or flattery.
Term
Blight
Definition
to afflict or destroy
Term
Blithe
Definition
showing a casual and cheerful indifference considered to be callous or improper.
Term
Bonanza
Definition
A situation or event that causes a sudden increase in wealth, good fortune, or profits. Also a large amount of something that is desirable.
Term
Bonhomie
Definition
cheerful friendliness, geniality
Term
Brazen
Definition
Bold and without shame.
Term
Brigand
Definition
bandit, outlaw.
Term
Burly
Definition
large and strong; heavily built.
Term
Cabal
Definition
A secret political clique or faction seeking to overturn something.
Term
Cadence
Definition
rhytmic flow of poetry; marching beat.
Term
Callow
Definition
inexperienced and immature.
Term
Calumny
Definition
false and malicious accusation, misrepresentation, slander.
Term
Canard
Definition
A lie
Term
Candor
Definition
The qulaity of being open and honest in expression; frankness
Term
Canny
Definition
Having shrewdness, especially in money or business matters.
Term
Canvass
Definition
Solicit votes from someone
Term
Capacious
Definition
Having a lot of space inside; roomy.
Term
Careen
Definition
to lean to one side, especially the tilt of a ship.
Term
Carom
Definition
to strike and rebound.
Term
Carp (v)
Definition
complain or find fault continually, typically about trivial matters.
Term
Categorical
Definition
Absolute or without exception
Term
Catharsis
Definition
The process of releasing and thereby providing release from strong or repressed emotions. Purgation, Cleansing.
Term
Catholic
Definition
including a wide variety of things; all embracing.
Term
Cavalcade
Definition
a procession
Term
Cavil
Definition
Make petty or unnecessary objections.
Term
Cavort
Definition
Jump or dance around excitedly, apply oneself to sexual or disreputable pursuits.
Term
Celerity
Definition
swiftness of movement.
Term
Censorious
Definition
Severly critical of others.
Term
Chagrin
Definition
Distress or embarassment at having failed or been humiliated.
Term
Champ (v)
Definition
chew noisily.
Term
Chary
Definition
Cautious; wary.
Term
Chattel
Definition
A personal possession, an item of property other than real estate.
Term
Chauvinist
Definition
someone prejudiced in the belief of their kind's superiority.
Term
Chimera
Definition
A fire breathing female monster with a lion's head. (greek myth)
Term
Chimerical
Definition
fanciful, imaginary or impossible.
Term
Choleric
Definition
Bad tempered or irritable. Influenced by or predominating in the humor called choler (rage)
Term
Chortle
Definition
to chuckle.
Term
Churlish
Definition
Rude in a mean spirited and surly manner.
Term
Circuitous
Definition
Longer than the most direct way.
Term
Circumlocution
Definition
lengthy way of saying something.
Term
Circumscribe
Definition
Restrict something within limits.
Term
Circumvent
Definition
Find a way around an obstacle, overcome a difficulty typically in a clever and surreptitious way.
Term
Clairvoyant
Definition
A person who claims to have a supernatural ability to perceive events in the future or beyond normal sensory contact.
Term
Clandestine
Definition
secretive, concealed for a darker purpose.
Term
Clemency
Definition
Mercy or lenience
Term
Clement
Definition
Mild
Term
Cloister
Definition
seclude or shut up in as if in a convent or monastery.
Term
Cloy
Definition
disgust or sicken with an excess of sweetness, richness or sentiment.
Term
Coffer
Definition
strongbox, large chest for money.
Term
Cognomen
Definition
An extra personal name given to an ancient Roman citizen, functioning rather like a nickname and typically passed down from father to son.
Term
Collate
Definition
Collect and combine something in proper order.
Term
Colloquy
Definition
A conversation, a gathering for discussion of theological questions.
Term
Collusion
Definition
secret or illegal cooperation or conspiracy especially inorder to cheat or deceive others.
Term
Commensurate
Definition
corresponding in size or degree; in proportion
Term
Commodious
Definition
roomy and comfortable
Term
Complaisant
Definition
willing to please others; friendly
Term
Complicity
Definition
The state of being involved with others in an illegal activity or wrongdoing.
Term
Compunction
Definition
A feeling of guilt or moral scruple that follows the doing of something bad.
Term
Concomitant
Definition
A phenomenon that naturally accompanies or follows something.
Term
Conflagration
Definition
An excessive fire that destroys a great deal of land or property.
Term
Congeal
Definition
Sollidify or coagulate especially by cooling.
Term
Conjugal
Definition
pertaining to marriage
Term
Consanguineous
Definition
related by blood.
Term
Consign
Definition
to commit, entrust something to someone
Term
Construe
Definition
interpret or explain someone.
Term
Continence
Definition
self-restraint, self-control especially in sexual matters.
Term
Contravene
Definition
to contradict
Term
Contrite
Definition
deeply sorrowful and repentant for a wrong.
Term
Contumacious
Definition
rebellious.
Term
Contusion
Definition
bruise
Term
Convalescence
Definition
gradual recovery after an illness or injury
Term
Convivial
Definition
friendly, lively, jovial and enjoyable
Term
Coquette
Definition
a flirtatious woman
Term
Cornucopia
Definition
A symbol of abundance consisting of a goat's horn overflowing with flowers, fruit and corn.
Term
Corporeal
Definition
having to do with the body; tangible, material.
Term
Coterie
Definition
A small group of people with shared interests or tasted especially one that is exclusive of other people.
Term
Countermand
Definition
revoke an order, annul, or cancel something.
Term
Countervail
Definition
Offset the effect of something by countering it with something of equal force.
Term
Coven
Definition
a group of or gathering of witches that meet regularly.
Term
Crass
Definition
crude, unrefined. Lacking sensitivity or due consideration.
Term
Craven
Definition
Cowardly
Term
Credence
Definition
Acceptance of something as true.
Term
Cupidity
Definition
greed for money or possessions.
Term
Curmudgeon
Definition
A bad tempered or surly person.
Term
Cygnet
Definition
A young swan.
Term
Daunt
Definition
make someone feel intimidated or apprehensive
Term
Dearth
Definition
a scarcity or lack of something.
Term
Declivity
Definition
Downward slope.
Term
Defunct
Definition
No longer existing or functioning.
Term
Delectable
Definition
Delicious, extremely beautiful.
Term
Deluge
Definition
Inundate with a great quantity of something.
Term
Delineation
Definition
a graphic or vivid verbal description
Term
Demagogue
Definition
A political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument.
Term
Demur
Definition
Raise objections or show reluctance
Term
Denigrate
Definition
Criticize unfairly, disparage, slander, defame, vilify.
Term
Denunciation
Definition
Public condemnation of someone or something as wrong.
Term
Denounce
Definition
Publicly declare to be wrong or evil.
Term
Derogate
Definition
Belittle, Disparage someone or something.
Term
Descry
Definition
Catch sight of, discover or reveal.
Term
Despondent
Definition
feeling discouraged and dejected.
Term
Despot
Definition
tyrannical ruler.
Term
Destitute
Definition
without having the basic necessities of life.
Term
Dictum
Definition
A formal pronouncement from an authoritative source.
Term
Didactic
Definition
Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
Term
Dilapidated
Definition
In a state of despair or ruin as the result of age or neglect.
Term
Disaffected
Definition
Discontented with people in authority and no longer willing to support them.
Term
Disbar
Definition
to expel from the legal profession.
Term
Discomfit
Definition
to cause perplexity, make someone feel uneasy or embarassed.
Term
Discursive
Definition
Digressing from subject to subject.
Term
Disdain
Definition
to regard with scorn, contempt.
Term
Disgorge
Definition
to vomit, discharge violently.
Term
Disheveled
Definition
Unkempt, untidy and disarranged.
Term
Disingenuous
Definition
Not candid or sincere, typically by pretending that one knows less about something than one really knows.
Term
Dispassionate
Definition
Not influenced by strong emotion, and so able to be rational and impartial.
Term
Dispense with
Definition
give up something that is not necessary.
Term
Disquieted
Definition
feeling anxiety, being perturbed and lacking peace.
Term
Dissimulate
Definition
to disguise or put on a false appearance.
Term
Distaff
Definition
the female branch of a family.
Term
Dither
Definition
to move or act confusedly without a clear sense of purpose.
Term
Diurnal
Definition
Daily, Quotidian
Term
Divest
Definition
to sell off, opposite of invest.
Term
Docile
Definition
submissive, ready to accept control or instruction.
Term
Doldrums
Definition
a feeling of boredom or depression
Term
Doleful
Definition
Expressing sorrow, mournful, causing grief or misfortune.
Term
Dolor
Definition
sadness
Term
Dolt
Definition
idiot, stupid person, dunce
Term
Domineer
Definition
Assert one's will over another in an arrogant way.
Term
Dotage
Definition
the period of life in which a person is old and weak.
Term
Dotard
Definition
senile old person
Term
Doughty
Definition
courageous
Term
Dour
Definition
relentlessly stern and severe or gloomy in manner or appearance.
Term
Drivel
Definition
stupid talk, slobber.
Term
Dudgeon
Definition
a feeling of offense or deep resentment
Term
Edict
Definition
law, command, official public order.
Term
Edifice
Definition
A building especially a large or imposing one.
Term
Effluvia
Definition
An unpleasant or harmful odor, secretion or discharge.
Term
Effrontery
Definition
Insolent or impertinent behavior.
Term
Effulgent
Definition
shining brightly, radiant.
Term
Effusive
Definition
expressing feelings of gratitude, pleasure or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner.
Term
Egress
Definition
The action of going out or leaving a place.
Term
Emaciated
Definition
skinny, scrawny, gaunt especially from hunger.
Term
Embezzle
Definition

steal or misappropriate money in violation of one's trust.

 

Term
Encipher
Definition
to translate a message into a code. The opposite of decipher.
Term
Endemic
Definition
belonging to a particular area, inherent.
Term
Endogamous
Definition
marrying within a specific group due to law or custom.
Term
Ennui
Definition
boredom, a lack of interest or energy.
Term
Ensconce
Definition
Establish or settle in a comfortable, safe or secret place.
Term
Entreat
Definition
ask someone earnestly or anxiously to do something, implore, beseech, beg, supplicate.
Term
Epigraph
Definition
quotation at the beginning of a literary work.
Term
Epithet
Definition
an abusive word or phrase
Term
Epochal
Definition
very significant or influential; defining an epoch or time period.
Term
Equity
Definition
the quality of being fair and impartial.
Term
Ersatz
Definition
Made or used as a substitute, typically an inferior one for something else, fake.
Term
Esurient
Definition
Hungry or greedy
Term
Ethereal
Definition
extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world.
Term
Ethos
Definition
The characteristic spirit of a culture, era or community as seen in its beliefs and aspirations.
Term
Euphony
Definition
pleasant, harmonious sound.
Term
Eurhytmics
Definition
a system of rhythmsical physical movements to music used to teach musical understanding of for therapeutic purposes.
Term
Euthanasia
Definition
mercy killing; intentional, easy and painless death.
Term
Evanescent
Definition

momentary, transitory, short-lived, ephemereal.

 

Term
Excoriate
Definition
censure or criticize severely.
Term
Execrable
Definition
extremely bad or unpleasant
Term
Expatiate
Definition
speak or write at length or in detail.
Term
Expatriate
Definition
one who lives outside one's native land. As a verb it means to drive someone from his/her native land.
Term
Expedient
Definition
Convenient and practical, although possibly improper or immoral
Term
Expunge
Definition
erase or remove completely (something unwanted or unpleasant)
Term
Extraneous
Definition
irrelevant or unrelated to the subject being dealt with
Term
Extricate
Definition
free someone or something from a constraint or difficulty.
Term
Facile
Definition
very easy
Term
Facsimile
Definition
an exact copy.
Term
Farcical
Definition
absurd, ludicrous, foolish and unreasonable.
Term
Fatuous
Definition
Silly and Pointless
Term
Fealty
Definition
loyalty, allegiance, faithfulness, fidelity.
Term
Feckless
Definition
lacking in efficiency or vitality
Term
Fecund
Definition
Producing or capable of producing an abundance of offspring or new growth; fertile.
Term
Felicity
Definition
Intense happiness
Term
Felicitous
Definition
suitable, appropriate and well spoken.
Term
Fetid
Definition
foul smelling, putrid
Term
Fetter
Definition
to bind, chain or confine.
Term
Fey
Definition
giving an impression of vague unworldiness; doomed.
Term
Filial
Definition
appropriate for a child.
Term
Finicky
Definition
fussy about one's needs or requirements.
Term
Flaccid
Definition
soft and hanging loosely or limply.
Term
Flagrant
Definition
outrageous, obviously and offensive
Term
Flout
Definition
openly disregard, treat contemptously, scorn.
Term
Foible
Definition
a minor weakness or eccentricity in someone's character.
Term
Foist
Definition
to pass off as genuine when something is fake.
Term
Ford
Definition
a shallow place in a river or stream allowing one to walk across. As a verb, it means to cross a river at a shallow place.
Term
Forfend
Definition
Avert, keep away or prevent something evil or unpleasant
Term
Forgo
Definition
Omit or decline to take something pleasant or vulnerable; go without.
Term
Fractious
Definition
easily irritated, bad tempered, rebellious.
Term
Fraticide
Definition
the killing of a brother or a sister.
Term
Frivolous
Definition
not having any serious purpose or value. Carefree and not serious.
Term
Fulminate
Definition
to explode with anger.
Term
Funereal
Definition
mournful, appropriate to a funeral.
Term
Furor
Definition
An outbreak of public anger or excitement
Term
Gainsay
Definition
to deny
Term
Gambol
Definition
Run or jump about playfully.
Term
Gargantuan
Definition
giant, tremendous.
Term
Garner
Definition
gather or collect something especially information or approval.
Term
Gauche
Definition
lacking ease or grace; unsophisticated and socially awkward.
Term
Gaucherie
Definition
a tactless or awkward act.
Term
Gaunt
Definition
lean and haggard, especially because of suffering, hunger or age.
Term
Gavel
Definition

A small mallet with which an auctioneer, a judge, or the chair of a meeting hits a surface to call for attention or order.

 

Term
Genteel
Definition
Polite, refined, or respectable, often in an affected or ostentatious way.
Term
Glib
Definition
fluent and voluble but insincere and hollow.
Term
Glower
Definition
have an angry or sullen look on one's face; scowl.
Term
Gnarl
Definition
A rough knotty protruberance especially on a tree.
Term
Goad
Definition
A spiked stick used for driving cattle.
Term
Gossamer
Definition
A fine, filmy substance consisting of cobwebs spun by small spiders. Means fine, delicate.
Term
Gradation
Definition
A scale or a series of successive changes, stages or degrees.
Term
Grandiloquence
Definition
pompous talk intended to impress. 
Term
Gratis
Definition
free, costing nothing.
Term
Gratuitous
Definition
Uncalled for, lacking good reason, unwarranted, given or done free of charge.
Term
Gratuity
Definition
something given voluntarily, a tip.
Term
Grubby
Definition
Dirty, grimy, disreputable; sordid.
Term
Gustatory
Definition
relating to the sense of taste.
Term
Hallow
Definition
honor as holy, make holy or consecrate.
Term
Hamlet
Definition
A small settlement, generally one smaller than a village.
Term
Hapless
Definition
unfortunate
Term
Harangue
Definition
a pompous speech
Term
Headlong
Definition
In a rush, with reckless haste.
Term
Hector
Definition
a bully, braggart, talk to someone in a bullying way. (verb)
Term
Hegemony
Definition
Leadership or dominance, especially by one group or country.
Term
Hemicycle
Definition
semicircular form or structure
Term
Hermetic
Definition
complete and airtight, insulated or protected from outside influences.
Term
Heterodox
Definition
unorthodox, not widely accepted.
Term
Hew
Definition
Chop or cut with an axe, pick or other tool.
Term
Hidebound
Definition
excessively rigid, narrow minded, stubborn.
Term
Hoary
Definition
Grayish white, having gray or white hair; aged.
Term
Holistic
Definition
emphasizing the importance of the whole and interdependence of the parts.
Term
Homonym
Definition
word identical in pronunciation but different in meaning.
Term
Husband (verb)
Definition
manage carefully and thriftily; conserve
Term
Hutch
Definition
A box or cage, typically with a mire mesh front, for keeping rabbits, ferrets, or other small domesticated animals.
Term
Idiosyncrasy
Definition
A distinctive or peculiar feature or characteristic of a place or thing.
Term
Ignoble
Definition
Dishonorable, not noble in character
Term
Ignominious
Definition
disgraceful and dishonorable.
Term
Ilk
Definition
a type of people or things similar to those already referred to
Term
Imbue
Definition
Inspire or permeate with a feeling or quality. Impregnate, saturate, soak, pervade.
Term
Immaterial
Definition
Unimportant under the circumstances, irrelevant; spiritual rather than physical.
Term
Immure
Definition
Enclose or confine someone against their own will.
Term
Impassive
Definition
not feeling or showing no emotion.
Term
Impecunious
Definition
Having little or no money.
Term
Impertinent
Definition
Rude; Not showing proper respect; Not pertinent to a particular matter i.e, irrelevant.
Term
Impious
Definition
not pious
Term
Implausible
Definition
Not plausible.
Term
Implicate
Definition
show someone to be involved in a crime.
Term
Impolitic
Definition
Failing to possess or display prudence, not judicious, unwise.
Term
Importune
Definition
to ask repeatedly, pester, bother.
Term
Imprecation
Definition
 A spoken curse.
Term
Impudent
Definition
arrogant and rude, same as impertinent.
Term
Impugn
Definition
Dispute the truth, validity, or honesty of a statement; challeng, call something into question. 
Term
Inane
Definition
Silly, stupid; not significant
Term
Incandescent
Definition
emitting light as a result of being heated.
Term
Incarnadine
Definition
blood red or fleshy pink in color.
Term
Incipient
Definition
In an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop.
Term
Incisive
Definition
intelligently analytical and clear thinking. Accurate and sharply focused.
Term
Incommunicado
Definition
not wanting to or not able to communicate with other people.
Term
Inconsequential
Definition
not important or signifcant
Term
Incontrovertible
Definition
not able to be denied or disputed.
Term
Incorrigible
Definition
Not able to be corrected, improved or reformed.
Term
Incursion
Definition
An invasion or attack, especially a sudden or brief one.
Term
Indefatigable
Definition
persisting tirelessly, untiring.
Term
Indefensible
Definition
inexcusable, unforgivable.
Term
Indenture
Definition
A formal legal document, agreement or contract. As a verb, it means to bind someone by a contract as a laborer or apprentice.
Term
Indict
Definition
formally accuse or charge someone with a serious crime.
Term
Indigent
Definition
ver poor
Term
Indolent
Definition
Lazy, wanting to avoid activity or exertion. Causing little or no pain when associated with a disease.
Term
Indomitable
Definition
fearless, unconquerable.
Term
Indubitable
Definition
unquestionable, impossible to doubt.
Term
Inebriated
Definition
drunk, intoxicated.
Term
Inept
Definition
clumsy, awkward.
Term
Inexorable
Definition
Impossible to stop or prevent.
Term
Inextricable
Definition
impossible to disentangle or separate. Impossible to escape from.
Term
Infamy
Definition
reputation for bad deeds.
Term
Inglorious
Definition
causing shame or a loss of honor.
Term
Ingrate
Definition
an ungrateful person
Term
Ingratiate
Definition
bring oneself into favor with someone by flattering or by trying to please them.
Term
Ingress
Definition
An entrance or a place by means of access. The action or fact of going in or entering.
Term
Insentient
Definition
Incapable of feeling or understanding things; inanimate.
Term
Inscrutable
Definition
impossible to understand fully. Mysterious.
Term
Insidious
Definition
proceeding in a gradual, subtle way but with harmful effects.
Term
Insinuate
Definition
Suggest or hint in an indirect and unpleasant way.
Term
Insipid
Definition
lacking flavor
Term
Insolvent
Definition
Unable to pay back debts, bankrupt.
Term
Insuperable
Definition
Impossible to overcome.
Term
Inter
Definition
Place a corpse in a grave or tomb, typically with funeral rites.
Term
Interdict
Definition
An authoritative prohibition.
Term
Interlocutor
Definition
A person who takes part in a dialogue or conversation.
Term
Interregnum
Definition
A period when normal government is suspended, especially between successive reigns or regimes.
Term
Interstice
Definition
An intervening space between two things, especially a small or narrow one.
Term
Intimation
Definition
hint, an indirect suggestion.
Term
Intractable
Definition
hard to control or deal with
Term
Intrepid
Definition
fearless
Term
Inure
Definition
become used to something especially something unpleasant.
Term
Invective
Definition
verbal abuse, highly critical language.
Term
Inveigh
Definition
Speak or write about with great hostility.
Term
Investiture
Definition
The action of formally investing someone with honors or rank. A ceremony at which honors or ranks are formally conferred on a particular person.
Term
Inveterate
Definition
long established habit, activity or interest that is unlikely to change.
Term
Invidious
Definition
Likely to arouse or incur resentment or anger in others.
Term
Iridescent
Definition
showing many colors that seem to change when viewed from different angles.
Term
Itinerant
Definition
wandering from one place to place, unsettled.
Term
Jaded
Definition
Tired, bored or lacking enthusiasm typically after having had too much of something.
Term
Jangling
Definition
clashing, jarring; harshly unpleasant sound.
Term
Jibe
Definition
Change direction swiftly from one direction to another. Also figuratively means to mock of jeer.
Term
Jingoism
Definition
Extreme patriotism. Belligerent support of one's country.
Term
Jocular
Definition
Fond of or characterized by joking; humorous or playful.
Term
Jurisprudence
Definition
the theory or philosophy of law.
Term
Kernel
Definition
literally means the softer usually edible part of a nut or a seed. Figuratively means the innermost essential part of something.
Term
Knell
Definition
The sound of a bell, especially when rung solemnly for a death or funeral.
Term
Kudos
Definition
Praise and Honor received for an achievement.
Term
Laceration
Definition
A torn or ragged wound.
Term
Lackadaisical
Definition
lacking enthusiasm and determination; carelessly lazy.
Term
Laggard
Definition
A person who makes slow progress and falls behind others.
Term
Lambaste
Definition
criticize someone or something harshly
Term
Languor
Definition
The state or feeling, often pleasant, of tiredness or inertia.
Term
Lapidary
Definition
relating to precious stones.
Term
Larceny
Definition
Theft of personal property.
Term
Larder
Definition
A room or large cupboard for storing food. Pantry or storeroom.
Term
Largess
Definition
A gift or money given as for service or out of benevolence; usually given ostentatiously.
Term
Lascivious
Definition
Feeling or revealing an overt and often offensive sexual desire.
Term
Lassitude
Definition
A state of physical or mental weariness, lack of energy.
Term
Laxity
Definition
carelessness
Term
Leery
Definition
Cautious or wary due to realistic suspicions.
Term
Legerdemain
Definition
Deception, trickery.
Term
Libertine
Definition
A person who behaves without moral principles.
Term
Libidinous
Definition
Excessively lustful for sexual pleasure.
Term
Lien
Definition
a right to keep property belonging to another until a debt is paid.
Term
Limpid
Definition
free of anything that darkens; completely clear, serene and transparent.
Term
Lionize
Definition
Give a lot of public attention and approval to someone; treat as a celebrity.
Term
Lissome
Definition
flexible, limber and agile.
Term
Listless
Definition
lacking energy and enthusiasm
Term
Lithe
Definition
moving and bending with ease; graceful.
Term
Low (v)
Definition
make a deep sound like the mooing of cows.
Term
Lugubrious
Definition
 looking or sounding sad and dismal.
Term
Lull
Definition
calm or send to sleep, typically with soothing sounds or movements.
Term
Lurid
Definition
present in vividly shocking or sensational terms, especially giving explicit details of crimes or sexual matters. Having a very vivid color, so as to create an unpleasantly harsh or unnatural effect.
Term
Luscious
Definition
having a pleasantly rich, sweet taste.
Term
Macabre
Definition
Disturbing and horrifying because of involvement with or depiction of death or injury.
Term
Machination
Definition
A crafty and involved plot to achieve usually sinister ends.
Term
Macrobiotics
Definition
the theory of promoting health and longevity by means of diet.
Term
Maladroit
Definition
opposite of adroit, that is clumsy and awkward use of the hands.
Term
Malapropism
Definition
the unintentional misuse of a word by confusion with one that sounds similar.
Term
Malcontent
Definition
A person who is dissatisfied and rebellious.
Term
Malediction
Definition
A magical word or phrase uttered with the intention of bringing about evil or destruction.
Term
Malefactor
Definition
A person who commits a crime or some other wrong.
Term
Manumission
Definition
release from slavery.
Term
Martial
Definition
pertaining to the military, warlike.
Term
Martinet
Definition
A strict disciplinarian, especially in the armed forces.
Term
Matriculate
Definition
to enroll as a member of a college or university.
Term
Maverick
Definition
An unorthodox or independent minded person.
Term
Mawkish
Definition
Sentimental in a feebly or sickly way. Same as Maudlin.
Term
Meddler
Definition
person interfering with other's affairs
Term
Megalomania
Definition
Delusion about one's power or importance.
Term
Menagerie
Definition
various animals kept together for exhibition.
Term
Mendacious
Definition
dishonest
Term
Mendacity
Definition
a lie
Term
Mendicant
Definition
a beggar.
Term
Meretricious
Definition
gaudy, falsely attractive.
Term
Mettle
Definition
Courageousness, endurance.
Term
Militate
Definition
to operate against, work against, to fight.
Term
Minatory
Definition
expressing or conveying threat: "minatory finger wagging."
Term
Misapprehend
Definition
to misunderstand something.
Term
Miscreant
Definition
a person who behaves criminally.
Term
Misnomer
Definition
an incorrect name or designation.
Term
Missive
Definition
a letter, especially a long or official one. An epistle.
Term
Modicum
Definition
a small amount
Term
Molt (v)
Definition
to shed hair or feathers to make way for new growth.
Term
Monolith
Definition
large block of stone especially serving as a pillar or a monument.
Term
Moot
Definition
subject to debate, dispute, or uncertainty and typically not admitting of a final decision.
Term
Mordacious
Definition
caustic, biting sarcasm or invective.
Term
Mordant
Definition
sarcastic
Term
Mores
Definition
customs or manners
Term
Moribund
Definition
dying, decaying.
Term
Mote
Definition
small particle, a speck.
Term
Motley
Definition
many colored; composed of diverse parts.
Term
Mottle
Definition
to mark with spots.
Term
Multifarious
Definition
diverse.
Term
Munificent
Definition
generous, beneficent.
Term
Myriad
Definition
an immense number, a plethora, profusion.
Term
Nadir
Definition
lowest point.
Term
Nascent
Definition
starting to develop, coming into existence.
Term
Natal
Definition
relating to child-birth
Term
Nebulous
Definition
vague, cloudy.
Term
Necromancy
Definition
the supposed practice of communicating with the dead, especially in order to predict the future.
Term
Nefarious
Definition
vicious, evil, wicked or criminal.
Term
Neologism
Definition
a new word or expression.
Term
Neonate
Definition
newborn child.
Term
Neophyte
Definition
novice beginner
Term
Nether
Definition
located under or below something.
Term
Nettle (v)
Definition
to irritate, vex, gall, aggravate, rile.
Term
Niggardly
Definition
stingy, thrifty, parsimony, frugal.
Term
Niggling
Definition
cause slight but persistent annoyance, discomfort or anxiety.
Term
Nihilism
Definition
the rejection of all religous and moral principles, often in the belief that life is meaningless.
Term
Noisome
Definition
stinking, putrid. Having an offensive smell.
Term
Non Sequitur
Definition
A conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the the previous argument or statement.
Term
Nondescript
Definition
lacking interesting or distinctive qualities.
Term
Nonentity
Definition
an insignificant person
Term
Novitiate
Definition
period of being a beginner or novice.
Term
Numismatics
Definition
coin collecting
Term
Nuptial
Definition
relating to marriage
Term
Obfuscate
Definition
to confuse, obscure, becloud, bewilder.
Term
Objurgate
Definition
scold
Term
Obliging
Definition
agreeable, accommodating
Term
Oblique
Definition
indirect, evasive, misleading, devious.
Term
Obloquy
Definition
abusive language.
Term
Obsequy
Definition
funeral ceremony
Term
Obstreperous
Definition
noisy and difficult to control: The boy is cocky and obstreperous.
Term
Obtuse
Definition
insensitive, stupid and dull, Opposite of acute.
Term
Odious
Definition
hateful, contemptible
Term
Officious
Definition
too helpful, meddling.
Term
Ontology
Definition
theory about the nature of existence. Nihilism is a part of ontology.
Term
Opalescent
Definition
displaying different colors. Synonym of iridescent
Term
Opine
Definition
to express an opinion.
Term
Orotund
Definition
pompous, pretentious.
Term
Ossify
Definition
to turn to bone, to become rigid.
Term
Ostensible
Definition
stated or appearing to be true, but not necesarily so. Apparent, sham, seeming.
Term
Ouster
Definition
dismissal or expulsion from a position.
Term
Overweening
Definition
arrogant, showing excessive confidence or pride.
Term
Pacific
Definition
calm, peaceful.
Term
Paean
Definition
a song of praise or thanksgiving.
Term
Palaver
Definition
idle talk, prolonged discussion.
Term
Pall (v)
Definition
to lose strength or interest in something.
Term
Palliate
Definition
to make less severe, ease.
Term
Pallid
Definition
lacking color or liveliness.
Term
Paltry
Definition
small or meager; petty, trivial.
Term
Panacea
Definition
Cure for everything.
Term
Panegyric
Definition
elaborate praise; formal hymn of praise.
Term
Panoply
Definition
a complete or impressive collection of things. A splendid display.
Term
Paradigm
Definition
a typical example or pattern of something, a model. A worldview underlying the basic theories of a scientific subject.
Term
Pare
Definition
to trim something by cutting away its outer edges. Prune. Peel.
Term
Pariah
Definition
An outcast. A member if indigenous people of Southern India originally functioning as ceremonial drummers but later having a low caste or no caste.
Term
Parley
Definition
A conference between opposing sides in a dispute, especially a discussion of terms for an armistice.
Term
Parochial
Definition
having a limited or narrow outlook or scope.
Term
Pastiche
Definition
peice of literature or music imitating other works.
Term
Patrician
Definition
an aristocrat
Term
Patricide
Definition
murder of one's father.
Term
Patrimony
Definition
inheritance or heritage derived from one's father.
Term
Patronize
Definition
to condescend to, to disparage, to frequent a store, theater etc. as a customer.
Term
Paucity
Definition
scarcity, lack.
Term
Peccadillo
Definition
a small, relatively unimportant offense or sin.
Term
Peculation
Definition
theft of money or goods.
Term
Pejorative
Definition
Derogative. Expressing contempt or disapproval.
Term
Penury
Definition
extreme poverty
Term
Perambulate
Definition
walk about 
Term
Percipient
Definition
discerning, able to percieve.
Term
Perdition
Definition
complete and utter loss. Damnation.
Term
Peregrinate
Definition
wander from place to place.
Term
Periphrastic
Definition
containing too many words.
Term
Pernicious
Definition
having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.
Term
Perspicacious
Definition
shrewd, discerning, acute, having a ready insight into and understanding of things.
Term
Pert
Definition
attractive because of liveliness or sauciness.
Term
Pertinacious
Definition
stubborn, dogged, holding firmly to an opinion or a course of action
Term
Perusal
Definition
close examination
Term
Pettish
Definition
fretful, childishly bad tempered.
Term
Petulance
Definition
irritability
Term
Phalanx
Definition
massed group of soldiers, people or things, a bevy.
Term
Philanderer
Definition
womanizer. A man who likes many women and has short sexual relationships with them.
Term
Philology
Definition
study of words and language.
Term
Phlegm
Definition
cold and indifferent
Term
Picayune
Definition
petty, of little importance.
Term
Piddling
Definition
trivial
Term
Pilfer
Definition
to steal
Term
Pillory
Definition
ridicule and abuse.
Term
Pique
Definition
a feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight, especially to one's pride.
Term
Pittance
Definition
meager amount or wage.
Term
Placid
Definition
calm, serene
Term
Plaintive
Definition
expressing sorrow.
Term
Plebeian
Definition
crude, vulgar; low class.
Term
Plucky
Definition
courageous, spunky.
Term
Pluralistic
Definition
including a variety of groups.
Term
Poignant
Definition
emotionally moving.
Term
Polyglot
Definition
speaker of many languages.
Term
Pontificate (v)
Definition
to speak in a pretentious manner
Term
Pore (v)
Definition
to study closelyor meditatively.
Term
Posit
Definition
to suggest an idea, to put into position.
Term
Potable
Definition
drinkable
Term
Potentate
Definition
monarch or ruler with great power.
Term
Precis
Definition
short summary of facts
Term
Preclude
Definition
rule out, not involve something.
Term
Predilection
Definition
preference, liking to something.
Term
Premonition
Definition
forewarning, presentiment.
Term
Preponderance
Definition
superiority in power and influence. "The preponderance of good over evil."
Term
Prepossessing
Definition
attractive, engaging and appealing.
Term
Presage
Definition
to foretell, indicate in advance.
Term
Prescient
Definition
having foresight
Term
Primordial
Definition
original, existing from the beginning.
Term
Privation
Definition
lack of usual comforts or necessities.
Term
Probity
Definition
high mindedness, honesty
Term
Profligate
Definition
corrupt, degenerate
Term
Prognosis
Definition
prediction of disease outcome; any prediction
Term
Prognosticate
Definition
to predict
Term
Protean
Definition
Versatile, readily assuming different forms or characters.
Term
Proxy
Definition
the authority to represent someone else. A person authorized to act on the behalf of another.
Term
Providential
Definition
lucky, prudent.
Term
Prude
Definition
one who is excessively proper or modest. A person who is or claims to be easily shocked by matters pertaining to sex or nudity.
Term
Prurient
Definition
having or encouraging an excessive interest in sexual matters.
Term
Punitive
Definition
having to do with punishment
Term
Puritanical
Definition
adhering to a strict moral code.
Term
Purport
Definition
to profess, suppose, to claim
Term
Pusillanimous
Definition
cowardly, craven, lacking courage.
Term
Puerile
Definition
childish, immature, silly.
Term
Quack
Definition
faker, one who claims to have medical skill.
Term
Quadruped
Definition
animals having four feet
Term
Quaff
Definition
Drink heartily
Term
Quagmire
Definition
quicksand, marsh, difficult solution
Term
Quandary
Definition
dilemma, difficulty, confusion.
Term
Quell
Definition
to crush or subdue
Term
Quibble
Definition
to argue about insignificant and irrelevant details.
Term
Quintessence
Definition
most typical example, concentrated essence.
Term
Raconteur
Definition
witty, skillful storyteller.
Term
Rail (v)
Definition
to scold with bitter or abusive language.
Term
Ramshackle
Definition
likely to collapse, especially a building in a state of severe disrepair.
Term
Rancid
Definition
Rotten, Spoiled
Term
Rapprochement
Definition
having a cordial relationship
Term
Rapt
Definition
deeply absorbed with something.
Term
Ratiocination
Definition
methodical, rational or logical reasoning
Term
Raze
Definition
to tear down, demolish
Term
Reactionary
Definition
extremely conservative, one who opposes political or social liberalization or reform.
Term
Rebarbative
Definition
irritating, repellant
Term
Rebuff
Definition
blunt rejection; reject something in an abrupt or ungracious manner.
Term
Rebut
Definition
to refute by evidence or argument.
Term
Recalcitrant
Definition
resisting authority or control. Insubordinate, contumacious.
Term
Recidivism
Definition
tendency to repeat previous behavior
Term
Recondite
Definition
little known, abstruse, especially used to describe a subject or knowledge.
Term
Recreant
Definition
disloyal, cowardly
Term
Redress
Definition
remedy or set right an undesirable or unfair situation.
Term
Refectory
Definition
room where meals are served. Mess hall.
Term
Rejoinder
Definition
a reply, especially a sharp or witty one. Or a defendant's answer to the plaintiff's reply or replication.
Term
Remit
Definition
to send as payment.
Term
Remonstrate
Definition
make a forcefully reproachable protest.
Term
Renege
Definition
Go back on a promise, undertaking, or contract.
Term
Repast
Definition
meal or mealtime.
Term
Repose
Definition
relaxation, leisure
Term
Reprehend
Definition
to criticize
Term
Reprehensible
Definition
blameworthy, disreputable.
Term
Repress
Definition
to restrain or hold in
Term
Reprise
Definition
repetition, especially of a piece of music.
Term
Reprobate
Definition
morally unprincipled person, libertine.
Term
Requite
Definition
to return or repay.
Term
Rescind
Definition
to repeal, cancel.
Term
Restive
Definition
restless, unable to keep still or silent and becoming increasingly difficult to control.
Term
Retinue
Definition
group of attendants around an important person.
Term
Retrench
Definition
to regroup, reorganize.
Term
Retroactive
Definition
taking effect from a date in the past.
Term
Retrogade
Definition
directed or moving backward. Go back in position or time.
Term
Revulsion
Definition
strong feeling of repugnance or dislike.
Term
Rhapsody
Definition
emotional literary or musical work.
Term
Ribald
Definition
Humorous in a vulgar way.
Term
Riposte
Definition
a quick clever reply to an insult or criticism
Term
Risque
Definition
bordering on being inappropriate or indecent.
Term
Rococo
Definition
very highly ornamented, florid, decorated.
Term
Roil
Definition
to disturb or cause disorder. Literally means to disturb the sediment causing it to rise to the surface of the liquid.
Term
Rostrum
Definition
a raised platform on which a person stands to make a public speech.
Term
Ruminate
Definition
to contemplate. Think about something deeply. It means to chew the cud.
Term
Rustic
Definition
charm associated with a rural location. Used as a derogatory term to insult someone who is simple.
Term
Saccharine
Definition
excessively sweet or sentimental, sugary.
Term
Sacrosanct
Definition
extremely sacred; beyond criticism.
Term
Sagacious
Definition
shrewd, wise like a sage.
Term
Salacious
Definition
lustful, treating sexual matters in an indecent manner.
Term
Sallow
Definition
sickly yellow in color.
Term
Sapient
Definition
wise or attempting to be wise. "Homo sapiens"
Term
Sardonic
Definition
grimly mocking or cynical.
Term
Savant
Definition
a learned person, especially a distinguished scientist.
Term
Scabbard
Definition
sheath for a sword or dagger.
Term
Scabrous
Definition
dealing with indecent or vulgar things.
Term
Scintilla
Definition
very small amount.
Term
Scintillating
Definition
to sparkle, flash. " a scintillating performance"
Term
Scrivener
Definition
professional copyist, penman. Cognate with scribe.
Term
Scurrilous
Definition
vulgar, low, indecent.
Term
Sedition
Definition
behavior prompting rebellion
Term
Serendipity
Definition
habit of making fortunate discoveries by chance.
Term
Serrated
Definition
saw toothed, notched.
Term
Shirk
Definition
 to avoid a task due to laziness or fear.
Term
Simian
Definition
apelike; relating to apes.
Term
Sinecure
Definition
well-paying job or office that requires little or no work. Was used to describe a job in the church which had no direct contact with the congregation.
Term
Skulk
Definition
to move in a stealthy or cautious manner. Sneak around.
Term
Slake
Definition
to calm down or moderate. To slacken.
Term
Slipshod
Definition
careless, hasty. Literally means wearing slippers.
Term
Slough
Definition
to discard or shed. Especially a snake shedding its skin.
Term
Slovenly
Definition
untidy, messy, disheveled, unkempt. Also means a loose promiscuous woman.
Term
Sojourn
Definition
temporary stay, visit.
Term
Somnambulist
Definition
sleep walker.
Term
Somnolent
Definition
drowsy, sleepy, inducing sleep. Soporific.
Term
Sophist
Definition
person good at arguing deviously, a person with specious arguments.
Term
Sophistry
Definition
deceptive reasoning or argumentation
Term
Sophomoric
Definition
immature and overconfident.
Term
Sordid
Definition
filthy; contemptible and corrupt.
Term
Spartan
Definition
austere, severe, grave, simple bare. It pertains to the city of Sparta, capital of Laconia, famed for severity of its social order, the frugality of its people, the valor of its army, and the brevity of its speech.
Term
Sprightly
Definition
lively, animated, energetic.
Term
Spurious
Definition
lacking authenticity; counterfeit, false. Literally means to be born out of wedlock.
Term
Squalid
Definition
filthy, morally repulsive.
Term
Staccato
Definition
marked by abrupt, clear-cut sounds.
Term
Staid
Definition
self restrained to the point of dullnes. Fixed, permanent.
Term
Stasis
Definition
motionless state, standstill.
Term
Stentorian
Definition
extremely loud. From "Stentor", legendary Greek herald in the Trojan War, whose voice was as loud as 50 men.
Term
Stilted
Definition
stiff, unnatural. Comes from the word stilt, a crutch or wooden pole used to walk across marshy lands. Now often used to describe high heeled shoes.
Term
Stockade
Definition
enclosed area forming a defensive wall.
Term
Stratagem
Definition
trick designed to deceive an enemy.
Term
Stripling
Definition
an adoloscent boy. Meaning someone who is slender as a strip, whose figure is not yet filled out.
Term
Stultify
Definition
to impair or reduce to uselessness.
Term
Stymie
Definition
to block or thwart. Originally meant the condition in which the opponent's golf ball blocks the hole.
Term
Subpoena
Definition
notice ordering someone to appear in court.
Term
Subvert
Definition
Pervert
Term
Superabundance
Definition
an excess
Term
Superannuated
Definition
too old, obsolete, outdated.
Term
Supercilious
Definition
arrogant, haughty, overbearing, condescending.
Term
Surfeit
Definition
excessive amount
Term
Supple
Definition
flexible, pliable.
Term
Swarthy
Definition
having a dark complexion.
Term
Sybarite
Definition
person devoted to pleasure and luxury. Literally means inhabitant of "Sybaris", ancient Greek city whose inhabitants were known for their love of luxury.
Term
Tableau
Definition
vivid description, striking incident or scene. Means picture in French.
Term
Tactile
Definition
relating to the sense of touch.
Term
Talisman
Definition
something producing a magical effect.
Term
Talon
Definition
claw of an animal, especially a bird of prey.
Term
Tawdry
Definition
gaudy, cheap, showy. Literally means an antiquated silk necktie wore by women.
Term
Taxonomy
Definition
science of classification.
Term
Teeter
Definition
to waver or move unsteadily. Comes from teeter-totter an alternative name for the see-saw.
Term
Temerity
Definition
recklessness.
Term
Tenable
Definition
defensible, reasonable.
Term
tenacious
Definition
stubborn
Term
tendentious
Definition
biased.
Term
Tenuous
Definition
weak, insubstantial
Term
tepid
Definition
lukewarm, showing little or no enthusiasm
Term
tether
Definition
to tie
Term
thrall
Definition
a person in servitude, enslaved.
Term
Threnody
Definition
a sad poem or song.
Term
Tome
Definition
a book, usually large and academic.
Term
Transient
Definition
temporary, short lived, fleeting.
Term
Transmute
Definition
to change in appearance or shape.
Term
travesty
Definition
parody, exaggerated imitation, caricature.
Term
trenchant
Definition
cutting, sharp, incisive, forceful, effective.
Term
tryst
Definition
agreement to meet between lovers.
Term
truculent
Definition
savage and cruel, ready to fight.
Term
truism
Definition
something that is obviously true.
Term
tyro
Definition
beginner, novice
Term
ubiquitous
Definition
being everywhere simultaneously.
Term
Umbrage
Definition
offense, resentment
Term
undulating
Definition
moving in waves.
Term
Vagrant
Definition
poor person with no home.
Term
vapid
Definition
tasteless, dull.
Term
vaunted
Definition
boasted about, bragged about, cognate with vain.
Term
venal
Definition
willing to do wrong for the sake of money. from Venus, the god of wealth.
Term
Venerable
Definition
respected.
Term
verdant
Definition
green with vegetation, inexperienced, not ripe.
Term
Verdure
Definition
fresh, rich vegetation.
Term
verisimilitude
Definition
having the appearance of truth.
Term
vernal
Definition
related to spring.
Term
verve
Definition
energy, vitality
Term
vicarious
Definition
substitute, surrogate.
Term
vim
Definition
energy, enthusiasm
Term
virile
Definition
manly, having the qualities of an adult male.
Term
Vitiate
Definition
reduce in value or effectiveness. Corrupt.
Term
Voluble
Definition
speaking much and easily, talkative, glib.
Term
Wanton
Definition
undisciplined, unrestrained, reckless.
Term
Waspish
Definition
irascible, quick to take offense, pugnacious, cantankerous.
Term
Wax (v)
Definition
grow bigger or greater, to increase.
Term
Welter
Definition
a confused mess, a jumble.
Term
Winsome
Definition
charming, attractive, happily engaging.
Term
Wizened
Definition
withered, shriveled, wrinkled.
Term
Xenophobia
Definition
fear or hatred of foreigners or strangers.
Term
Zephyr
Definition
a gentle breeze.
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