Shared Flashcard Set

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vocab1
n/a
732
Language - English
Undergraduate 1
08/16/2009

Additional Language - English Flashcards

 


 

Cards

Term
abet
Definition
(v.) assist, usually in doing something wrong; encourage
Term
abrogate
Definition
(v.) abolish
Term
abscond
Definition
(v.) depart secretly and hide
Term
actuate
Definition
(v.) motivate
Term
addle
Definition
(v.) muddle; drive crazy; become rotten
Term
adjuration
Definition
(n.) solemn urging
Term
adjutant
Definition
(n.) staff officer assisting the commander; assistant
Term
adventitious
Definition
(adj.) accidental; casual
Term
advert
Definition
(v.) refer (to)
Term
affront
Definition
(n.) insult; offense; intentional act of disrespect
Term
agog
Definition
(adj.) highly excited; intensely curious
Term
alimentary
Definition
(adj.) supplying nourishment
Term
amble
Definition
(n.) moving at an easy pace
Term
amulet
Definition
(n.) charm; talisman
Term
analgesic
Definition
(adj.) causing insensitivity to pain
Term
anathema
Definition
(n.) solemn curse; someone or something regarded as a curse
Term
animadversion
Definition
(n.) critical remark
Term
animus
Definition
(n.) hostile feeling or intent
Term
annex
Definition
(v.) attach; take possesion of
Term
annuity
Definition
(n.) yearly allowance
Term
anodyne
Definition
(n.) drug that relieves pain; opiate
Term
anthropoid
Definition
(adj.) manlike
Term
antic
Definition
(adj.) extravagantly odd
Term
aphorism
Definition
(n.) pithy maxim or saying
Term
aplomb
Definition
(n.) poise; assurance
Term
apocryphal
Definition
(adj.) spurious; not authentic; invented rather than true
Term
apologist
Definition
(n.) one who writes in defense of a cause or institution
Term
apostate
Definition
(n.) one who abandons his religious faith or political beliefs
Term
apothegm
Definition
(n.) pithy, compact saying
Term
apotheosis
Definition
(n.) elevation to godhood; an ideal example of something
Term
appellation
Definition
(n.) name; title
Term
application
Definition
(n.) diligent attention
Term
apposite
Definition

(adj.) appropriate; fitting

 

"It would be apposite of him to wait his turn,"

 

or

 

"An astute, apposite comment by the student brought laughter to the boardmembers"

Term
appurtenances
Definition
(n.) subordinate possessions
Term
apropos
Definition
(adj.) to the point and timely
(prep.) with reference to; regarding
Term
aquiline
Definition
(adj.) curved; hooked
Term
arcane
Definition
(adj.) secret; mysterious; known only to the initiated
Term
archetype
Definition
(n.) prototype; primitive pattern
Term
argot
Definition
(n.) slang
Term
array
Definition
(v.) marshal; draw up in order
Term
arrears
Definition
(n.) being in debt
Term
arroyo
Definition
(n.) gully
Term
artful
Definition
(adj.) cunning; crafty; sly
Term
artifice
Definition
(n.) deception; trickery
Term
ascribe
Definition
(v.) refer; attribute; assign
Term
aseptic
Definition
(adj.) preventing infection; having a cleansing effect
Term
asperity
Definition
(n.) sharpness (of temper)
Term
aspersion
Definition
(n.) slanderous remark
Term
assiduous
Definition
(adj.) diligent
Term
astigmatism
Definition
(n.) eye defect that prevents proper focus
Term
astringent
Definition
(adj.) binding; causing contraction; harsh or severe
Term
asunder
Definition
(adv.) into parts; apart
Term
atavism
Definition
(n.) resemblance to remote ancestors rather than to parents; reversion to an earlier type; throwback
Term
attenuate
Definition
(v.) make thinner; weaken or lessen (in density, force, degree)
Term
attrition
Definition
(n.) gradual decrease in numbers
Term
augury
Definition
(n.) omen; prophecy
Term
authoritarian
Definition
(adj.) subordinating the individual to the state; completely dominating another's will
Term
aver
Definition
(v.) assert confidently or declare; as used in law, state formally as fact
Term
avid
Definition
(adj.) greedy; eager for
Term
awl
Definition
(n.) printing tool used for piercing
Term
bacchanalian
Definition
(adj.) drunken
Term
badinage
Definition
(n.) teasing conversation
Term
baleful
Definition
(adj.) threatening; menacing; sinister; foreshadowing evil
Term
balk
Definition
(v.) stop short, as if faced w/ an obstacle, and refuse to continue
(v.) foil
Term
ballast
Definition
(n.) heavy substance used to add stability or weight
Term
balm
Definition
(n.) something that relieves pain
Term
balmy
Definition
(adj.) mild; fragrant
Term
banal
Definition
(adj.) hackneyed; commonplace; trite; lacking originality
Term
bandy
Definition
(v.) discuss lightly or glibly; exchange (words) heatedly
Term
baneful
Definition
(adj.) destructive; causing ruin or death
Term
baroque
Definition
(adj.) highly ornate
Term
barrister
Definition
(n.) counselor-at-law
Term
bate
Definition
(v.) let down; restrain
Term
bauble
Definition
(n.) trinket; trifle
Term
bawdy
Definition
(adj.) indecent; obscene
Term
beatific
Definition
(adj.) showing or producing joy; blissful
Term
beatify
Definition
(v.) bless or sanctify; proclaim someone dead to be one of blessed
Term
bedizen
Definition
(v.) dress w/ vulgar finery
Term
bedraggle
Definition
(v.) wet thoroughly
Term
beholden
Definition
(adj.) obligated; indebted
Term
belie
Definition
(v.) contradict; give a false impression
Term
bellicose
Definition
(adj.) warlike; pugnacious; naturally inclined to fight
Term
benison
Definition
(n.) blessing
Term
beneficent
Definition
(adj.) kindly; doing good
Term
bereft
Definition
(adj.) derived of; lacking
Term
beset
Definition
(v.) harass or trouble; hem in
Term
besmirch
Definition
(v.) soil; defile
Term
betoken
Definition
(v.) signify; indicate
Term
bevy
Definition
(n.) large group
Term
bifurcated
Definition
(adj.) divided into two branches; forked
Term
bigotry
Definition
(n.) stubborn intolerance
Term
bilious
Definition
(adj.) peevishly ill-humored
Term
bilk
Definition
(v.) swindle; cheat
Term
bivouac
Definition
(n.) temporary encampment
Term
blandishment
Definition
(n.) flattery
Term
blowhard
Definition
(n.) talkative boaster
Term
bluff
Definition
(adj.) rough but good-natured
Term
bluster
Definition
(v.) blow in heavy gusts; threaten emptily; bully
Term
bohemian
Definition
(adj.) unconventional (in an artistic way)
Term
bombastic
Definition
(adj.) pompous; using inflated language
Term
boon
Definition
(n.) blessing; benefit
Term
bowdlerize
Definition
(v.) expurgate
Term
brackish
Definition
(adj.) somewhat saline
Term
braggadocio
Definition
(n.) boasting
Term
bravado
Definition
(n.) swagger; assumed air of defiance
Term
brindled
Definition
(adj.) tawny of grayish w/ streaks or spots
Term
brocade
Definition
(n.) rich, figured fabric
Term
brook
Definition
(v.) tolerate; endure
Term
buccaneer
Definition
(n.) pirate
Term
buffet
Definition
(v.) slap; batter; knock about
Term
bugaboo
Definition
(n.) bugbear; object of baseless terror
Term
bungle
Definition
(v.) mismanage; blunder
Term
burlesque
Definition
(v.) give an imitation that ridicules
Term
burnish
Definition
(v.) make shiny by rubbing; polish
Term
cabal
Definition
(n.) small group of persons secretly united to promote their own interests
Term
cadge
Definition
(v.) beg; mooch; panhandle
Term
callow
Definition
(adj.) youthful; immature; inexperienced
Term
calumny
Definition
(n.) malicious misrepresentation; slander
Term
canard
Definition
(n.) false or unfounded story; fabricated report
Term
canon
Definition
(n.) collection or authoritative list of books
(n.) rule or principle, frequently religious
Term
cant
Definition
(n.) insincere expressions of piety; jargon of thieves
Term
cantankerous
Definition
(adj.) ill-humored; irritable
Term
canter
Definition
(v.) slow gallop
Term
capitulate
Definition
(v.) surrender
Term
captious
Definition
(adj.) faultfinding
Term
carafe
Definition
(n.) glass water bottle; decanter
Term
carapace
Definition
(n.) shell covering the back (of a turtle, crab, etc.)
Term
cardinal
Definition
(adj.) chief
Term
arillon
Definition
(n.) a set of bells capable of being played
Term
carousal
Definition
(n.) drunken revel
Term
carping
Definition
(n.) petty criticism; fault-finding
Term
castigation
Definition
(n.) punishment; severe criticism
Term
cataclysm
Definition
(n.) deluge upheaval
Term
cataract
Definition
(n.) great waterfall; eye abnormality
Term
catechism
Definition
(n.) book for religious instruction; instruction by question and answer
Term
caulk
Definition
(v.) to make watertight (by plugging seams)
Term
cauterize
Definition
(v.) burn w/ hot iron or caustic
Term
cavalcade
Definition
procession; parade
Term
cavalier
Definition
(adj.) causal and offhand; arrogant
Term
cavil
Definition
(v.) make frivolous objections
Term
celerity
Definition
(n.) speed; rapidity
Term
censorious
Definition
(adj.) critical
Term
centripetal
Definition
(adj.) tending toward the center
Term
centrifugal
Definition
(adj.) radiating; departing from the center
Term
cerebration
Definition
(n.) thought
Term
chaff
Definition
(n.) worthless products of an endeavor
Term
chafe
Definition
(v.) warm by rubbing; make sore (by rubbing)
Term
chaffing
Definition
(adj.) bantering; joking
Term
chary
Definition
(adj.) cautious; sparing or restrained about giving
Term
chase
Definition
(v.) ornament a metal surface by indenting
Term
chassis
Definition
(n.) framework and working parts of an automobile
Term
chasten
Definition
(v.) correct by punishment or scolding; restrain
Term
chastened
Definition
(adj.) humbled; subdued; rebuked
Term
chimerical
Definition
(adj.) fantastically improbable; highly unrealistic; imaginative
Term
chisel
Definition
(v.) swindle or cheat; cut w/ a chisel
Term
choleric
Definition
(adj.) hot-tempered
Term
cipher
Definition
(n.) nonentity; worthless person or thing
Term
circlet
Definition
(n.) small ring; band
Term
circumlocution
Definition
(n.) unnecessarily wordy and indirect speech; evasive language
Term
circumspect
Definition
(adj.) prudent; cautious
Term
circumvent
Definition
(v.) outwit; baffle
Term
clarion
Definition
(adj.) shrill, trumpetlike sound
Term
cleave
Definition
(v.) split or sever; cling to; remain faithful to
Term
clemency
Definition
(n.) disposition to be lenient; mildness, as of the weather
Term
coddle
Definition
(v.) treat gently; pamper
Term
codicil
Definition
(n.) supplement to the body of a will
Term
codify
Definition
(v.) arrange (laws, rules) as a code; classify
Term
coeval
Definition
(adj.) living at the same time as; contemporary
Term
cog
Definition
(n.) tooth projecting from a wheel
Term
cognate
Definition
(adj.) related linguistically; allied by blood; similar or akin in nature
Term
coiffure
Definition
(n.) hairstyle
Term
collation
Definition
(n.) a light meal
Term
colloquy
Definition
(n.) informal discussion
Term
collusion
Definition
(n.) conspiring in a fraudulent scheme
Term
colossus
Definition
(n.) gigantic statue
Term
comestible
Definition
(n.) something fit to be eaten
Term
comeuppance
Definition
(n.) rebuke; deserts
Term
comity
Definition
(n.) courtesy; civility
Term
commandeer
Definition
(v.) to draft for military purposes; to take for public use
Term
commensurate
Definition
(adj.) corresponding in extent, degree, amount, etc; proportionate
Term
commodious
Definition
(adj.) spacious and comfortable
Term
compact
Definition
(n.) agreement; contract
Term
compendium
Definition
(n.) brief, comprehensive summary
Term
complaisant
Definition
(adj.) trying to please; overly polite; obliging
Term
comport
Definition
(v.) bear one's self; behave
Term
concomitant
Definition
(n.) that which accompanies
Term
condign
Definition
(adj.) appropriate; deserved (almost always in the sense of deservedly severe, as in condign punishment)
Term
conflate
Definition
(v.) meld or fuse; confuse; combine into one
Term
conjugal
Definition
(adj.) pertaining to marriage
Term
connubial
Definition
(adj.) pertaining to marriage or the matrimonial state
Term
consanguinity
Definition
(n.) kinship
Term
conscript
Definition
(n.) draftee; person forced into military service
Term
consequential
Definition
(adj.) pompous; self-important
Term
consign
Definition
(v.) deliver officially; entrust; set apart
Term
consort
Definition
(n.) husband or wife
Term
continence
Definition
(n.) self-restraint; sexual chastity
Term
contraband
Definition
(n.) illegal trade; smuggling; smuggled goods
Term
contravene
Definition
(v.) contradict; oppose; infringe on or transgress
Term
controvert
Definition
(v.) oppose w/ arguments; attempt to refute; contradict
Term
contumacious
Definition
(adj.) disobedient; resisting authority
Term
conversant
Definition
(adj.) familiar with
Term
converse
Definition
(n.) opposite
Term
conveyance
Definition
(n.) vehicle; transfer
Term
convoke
Definition
(v.) call together
Term
coquette
Definition
(n.) flirt
Term
cordon
Definition
(n.) extended line of men or fortifications to prevent access or egress
Term
cornice
Definition
(n.) projecting molding on building (usually above columns)
Term
corrugated
Definition
(adj.) wrinkled; ridged
Term
coterie
Definition
(n.) group that meets socially; select cirlce
Term
countenance
Definition
(v.) approve; tolerate
Term
countermand
Definition
(v.) cancel; revoke
Term
cow
Definition
(v.) terrorize; intimidate
Term
cozen
Definition
(v.) cheat; hoodwink; swindle
Term
crabbed
Definition
(adj.) sour; peevish
Term
craven
Definition
(adj.) cowardly
Term
credence
Definition
(n.) belief
Term
credulity
Definition
(n.) belief on slight evidence; gullibility; naivete
Term
crone
Definition
(n.) hag
Term
crotchety
Definition
(adj.) eccentric; whimsical
Term
cull
Definition
(v.) pick out; reject
Term
culvert
Definition
(n.) artificial channel for water
Term
cupidity
Definition
(n.) greed
Term
curmudgeon
Definition
(n.) churlish, miserly individual
Term
cynosure
Definition
(n.) object of general attention
Term
dais
Definition
(n.) raised platform for guests of honor
Term
dally
Definition
(v.) trifle with; procrastinate
Term
dapper
Definition
(adj.) neat and trim
Term
dappled
Definition
(adj.) spotted
Term
debonair
Definition
(adj.) urbane and suave; amiable; cheerful and carefree
Term
decant
Definition
(v.) pour off gently
Term
declivity
Definition
(n.) downward slope
Term
decollete
Definition
(n.) having a lowcut neckline
Term
decry
Definition
(v.) express strong disapproval of; disparage
Term
defeatist
Definition
(n.) resigned to defeat; accepting defeat as a natural outcome
Term
defection
Definition
(n.) desertion
Term
defray
Definition
(v.) provide for the payment of
Term
delusive
Definition
(adj.) deceptive; raising vain hopes
Term
demean
Definition
(v.) degrade; humiliate
Term
demotic
Definition
(adj.) pertaining to the people
Term
demur
Definition
(n.) objection; protest
(v.) object (b/c of doubts, scruples); hesitate
Term
denigrate
Definition
(v.) blacken
Term
denizen
Definition
(n.) meaning; distinguishing by name
Term
deplore
Definition
(v.) regret
Term
depose
Definition
(v.) dethrone; remove from office
Term
depredation
Definition
(n.) plundering
Term
derelict
Definition
(adj.) abandoned; negligent
Term
deride
Definition
(v.) ridicule; make fun of
Term
descry
Definition
(v.) catch sight of
Term
desecrate
Definition
(v.) profane; violate the sanctity of
Term
desolate
Definition
(v.) rob of joy; lay waste to; forsake
Term
despoil
Definition
(v.) strip of valuables; rob
Term
desuetude
Definition
(n.) state of disuse
Term
desultory
Definition
(adj.) aimless; haphazard; digressing at random
Term
detraction
Definition
(n.) slandering; aspersion
Term
devolve
Definition
(v.) be transferred to another; delegate to another; gradually worsen
Term
dialectical
Definition
(adj.) relating to the art of debate; mutual or reciprocal
Term
diaphanous
Definition
(adj.) sheer; transparent
Term
dictum
Definition
(n.) authoritative and weighty statement; saying; maxim
Term
die
Definition
(n.) device for stamping or impressing; mold
Term
diffuse
Definition
(adj.) wordy; rambling
Term
dilettante
Definition
(n.) aimless follower of the arts; amateur; dabbler
Term
din
Definition
(n.) continued loud noise
Term
dint
Definition
(n.) means; effort
Term
disabuse
Definition
(v.) create a false impression; undeceive
Term
disabuse
Definition
(v.) correct a false impression; undeceive
Term
disaffected
Definition
(adj.) disloyal
Term
disavowal
Definition
(n.) denial; disclaiming
Term
discomfit
Definition
(v.) put to rout; defeat; disconcert
Term
disconcert
Definition
(v.) confuse; upset; embarrass
Term
discursive
Definition
(adj.) digressing; rambling
Term
disgorge
Definition
(v.) surrender something; eject; vomit
Term
disinterested
Definition
(adj.) unprejudiced
Term
disparate
Definition
(adj.) basically different; unrelated
Term
disport
Definition

(v.) amuse

 

"They were able to remain disported by the light-hearted children's performance"

Term
disquisition
Definition
(n.) a formal systematic inquiry; an explanation of the results of a formal inquiry
Term
dissemble
Definition
(v.) disguise; pretend
Term
dissident
Definition
(adj.) dissenting; rebellious
Term
dissimulate
Definition
(v.) pretend; conceal by feigning
Term
dissolution
Definition
(n.) disintegration; looseness in morals
Term
distend
Definition
(v.) expand; swell out
Term
distrait
Definition
(adj.) inattentive, distracted, often by anxiety
Term
diurnal
Definition
(adj.) daily
Term
divest
Definition
(v.) strip; deprive
Term
docket
Definition
(n.) program as for trial; book where such entries are made
Term
doff
Definition
(v.) take off
Term
doggerel
Definition
(n.) poor verse
Term
doleful
Definition
(adj.) mournful; causing sadness
Term
dolorous
Definition
(adj.) sorrowful
Term
dolt
Definition
(n.) stupid person; dunce
Term
domicile
Definition
(n.) home
Term
dotage
Definition
(n.) senility
Term
dour
Definition
(adj.) sullen; stubborn
Term
dowdy
Definition
(adj.) slovenly; untidy
Term
drivel
Definition
(n.) nonsense; foolishness
Term
drone
Definition
(n.) idle person; male bee
Term
ebullient
Definition
(adj.) showing excitement; overflowing
Term
effeminate
Definition
(adj.) having womanly traits
Term
effete
Definition
(adj.) lacking vigor; worn out; sterile
Term
effluvium
Definition
(n.) noxious smell
Term
effrontery
Definition
(n.) impudence; shameless boldness; sheer nerve; presumptuousness
Term
egregious
Definition
(adj.) notorious; conspicuously bad or shocking
Term
elegy
Definition
(n.) poem or song expressing lamentation
Term
elliptical
Definition
(adj.) ambiguous, either purposely or b/c key words have been left out
Term
elysian
Definition
(adj.) relating to paradise; blissful
Term
embezzlement
Definition
(n.) stealing
Term
embroil
Definition
(v.) throw into confusion; involve in strife; entangle
Term
emetic
Definition
(n.) substance causing vomiting
Term
emollient
Definition
(n.) soothing or softening remedy
Term
emolument
Definition
(n.) salary; compensation
Term
encomiastic
Definition
(adj.) praising; eulogistic
Term
encomium
Definition
(n.) high praise; eulogy
Term
endemic
Definition
(adj.) prevailing among a specific group of people or in a specific area or country
Term
endue
Definition
(v.) provide w/ some quality; endow
Term
enervate
Definition
(v.) weaken
Term
engender
Definition
(v.) cause; produce
Term
enjoin
Definition
(v.) command; order; forbid
Term
ensconce
Definition
(v.) settle comfortably
Term
environ
Definition
(n.) enclose; surround
Term
epaulet
Definition
(n.) ornament worn on the shoulder (of a uniform etc)
Term
epicure
Definition
(n.) connoisseur of food and drink
Term
episodic
Definition
(adj.) loosely connected
Term
epistemologist
Definition
(n.) philosopher who studies the nature of knowledge
Term
equable
Definition
(adj.) tranquil; steady; uniform
Term
equanimity
Definition
(n.) calmness of temperament; composure
Term
equipose
Definition
(n.) balance; balancing force; equilibrium
Term
equitable
Definition
(adj.) fair; impartial
Term
equivocal
Definition
(adj.) ambiguous; intentionally misleading
Term
errant
Definition
(adj.) wandering
Term
espouse
Definition
(v.) adopt; support
Term
ethos
Definition
(n.) underlying character of a culture, group, etc
Term
evince
Definition
(v.) show clearly
Term
exceptionable
Definition
(adj.) objectionable
Term
excoriate
Definition
(v.) scold w/ biting harshness; strip the skin off
Term
execrable
Definition

(adj.) very bad

 

"The teacher tolerated his execrable handwriting for a brief period, but when grading his essays became imopssible, she insisted on his use of a typewriter."

Term
execrate
Definition
(v.) curse; express abhorrence for
Term
exegesis
Definition
(n.) explanation, especially of biblical passages
Term
exhort
Definition
(v.) urge
Term
exigency
Definition
(n.) urgent situation; pressing needs or demands; state of requiring immediate attention
Term
exiguous
Definition
(adj.) small; minute
Term
expatiate
Definition
(v.) talk at length
Term
expiate
Definition
(v.) make amends for (a sin)
Term
expostulation
Definition
(n.) protest; remonstrance
Term
expunge
Definition
(v.) cancel; remove
Term
extenuate
Definition
(v.) weaken; mitigate
Term
extirpate
Definition
(v.) root up
Term
extradition
Definition
(n.) surrender of prisoner by one state to another
Term
extricate
Definition
(v.) free; disentangle
Term
factotum
Definition
(n.) handyman; person who does all kind of work
Term
fallow
Definition
(adj.) plowed but not sowed; uncultivated
Term
fancier
Definition
(n.) breeder or dealer of animals
Term
fancier
Definition
(n.) dealer or breeder of animals
Term
febrile
Definition
(adj.) feverish
Term
feckless
Definition
(adj.) feeble and ineffective; careless and irresponsible
Term
feint
Definition
(n.) trick; shaft
Term
felicity
Definition
(n.) happiness; appropriateness (of a remark, choice, etc)
Term
fell
Definition
(adj.) cruel; deadly
(v.) cut or knock down
Term
feral
Definition
(adj.) not domestic; wild
Term
ferment
Definition
(adj.) agitation; commotion
Term
fester
Definition
(v.) rankle; produce irritation or resentment
Term
fetid
Definition
(adj.) malodorous; foul-smelling
Term
fiat
Definition
(n.) authorization
Term
filigree
Definition
(n.) delicate, lacelike metalwork
Term
firebrand
Definition
(n.) hothead; troublemaker
Term
fitful
Definition
(adj.) spasmodic; intermittent
Term
flag
Definition
(v.) droop; grow feeble
Term
flair
Definition
(n.) talent
Term
fledgling
Definition
(adj.) inexperienced
Term
fleece
Definition
(v.) rob; plunder
Term
floe
Definition
(n.) mass of floating ice
Term
florid
Definition
(adj.) ruddy; reddish; flowery
Term
flout
Definition
(v.) reject; mock; show contempt for
Term
fodder
Definition
(n.) coarse food for cattle, horses, etc
Term
foible
Definition
(n.) weakness; slight fault
Term
foist
Definition
(v.) insert improperly; palm off
Term
foment
Definition
(v.) stir up; instigate
Term
foolhardy
Definition
(adj.) harsh
Term
fop
Definition
(n.) dandy; man excessively preoccupied w/ his clothes
Term
foray
Definition
(n.) raid
Term
forbearance
Definition
(n.) patience
Term
forebears
Definition
(n.) ancestors
Term
forestall
Definition
(v.) prevent by taking action in advance
Term
forswear
Definition
(v.) renounce; abandon
Term
fortitude
Definition
(n.) bravery; courage
Term
fracas
Definition
(n.) brawl; melee
Term
fractious
Definition
(adj.) unruly; disobedient; irritable
Term
fray
Definition
(n.) brawl
Term
frieze
Definition
(n.) ornamental band on a wall
Term
fritter
Definition
(v.) waste
Term
froward
Definition

(adj.) stubbornly contrary; obstinately disobedient

 

"I was a froward, intractible youth in elementary school"

Term
fulminate
Definition
(v.) denounce thunderously; explode
Term
fulsome
Definition
(adj.) disgustingly excessive
Term
functionary
Definition
(n.) official
Term
funereal
Definition
(adj.) sad; solemn
Term
furor
Definition
(n.) frenzy; great excitement
Term
fusillade
Definition
(n.) simultaneous firing or outburst (of missiles, questions, etc)
Term
gale
Definition
(n.) windstorm; gust of wind; emotional outburst (laughter, tears)
Term
gall
Definition
(n.) bitterness; nerve
(v.) annoy; chafe
Term
galleon
Definition
(n.) large sailing ship
Term
gambol
Definition
(v.) romp; skip about; leap playfully
Term
gamely
Definition
(adv.) in a spirited manner; with courage
Term
gamut
Definition
(n.) entire range
Term
garish
Definition
(adj.) overbright in color; gaudy
Term
garnish
Definition
(v.) decorate
Term
gastronomy
Definition
(n.) science of preparing and serving good food
Term
germinal
Definition
(adj.) pertaining to a germ; creative
Term
gerontocracy
Definition
(n.) government ruled by old people
Term
gossamer
Definition
(adj.) sheer; like cobwebs
Term
gouge
Definition
(v.) overcharge
Term
gratis
Definition
(adv.) free
Term
grotto
Definition
(n.) small cavern
Term
grouse
Definition
(v.) complain; fuss
Term
gull
Definition
(v.) trick; hoodwink
Term
hackles
Definition
(n.) hairs on back and neck
Term
halcyon
Definition
(adj.) calm; peaceful
Term
hale
Definition
(adj.) healthy
Term
harry
Definition
(v.) annoy, harrass, torment raid
Term
headlong
Definition
(adj.) hasty; rash
Term
heckler
Definition
(n.) person who verbally harasses others
Term
hermetic
Definition
(adj.) obscure and mysterious; occult
Term
hermitage
Definition
(n.) home of a hermit
Term
herpetologist
Definition
(n.) one who studies reptiles
Term
hibernal
Definition
(adj.) wintry
Term
hinterlands
Definition
(n.) back country
Term
hirsute
Definition
(adj) hairy
Term
homily
Definition
(n.) sermon; serious warning
Term
hortatory
Definition
(adj.) encouraging; exhortive
Term
hovel
Definition
(n.) shack; small, wretched house
Term
hummock
Definition
(n.) small hill
Term
ignoble
Definition
(adj.) unworthy; not noble
Term
ignominy
Definition
(n.) deep disgrace; shame or dishonor
Term
imbecility
Definition
(n.) weakness of mind
Term
imbue
Definition
(v.) saturate; fill
Term
immolate
Definition
(v.) offer as a sacrifie
Term
immure
Definition
(v.) imprison; shut up in confinement
Term
impecunious
Definition
(adj.) without money
Term
impel
Definition
(v.) drive or force onward
Term
imperious
Definition
(adj.) domineering; haughty
Term
impervious
Definition
(adj.) impenetrable; incapable of being damaged or distressed
Term
implore
Definition
(v.) beg
Term
imponderable
Definition
(adj.) weightless
Term
import
Definition
(n.) significance
Term
importunate
Definition
(v.) beg persistently
Term
imprecation
Definition
(n.) curse
Term
impugn
Definition
(v.) dispute or contradict (often in an insulting way); challenge; gainsay
Term
impuissance
Definition
(n.) powerlessness; feebleness
Term
impute
Definition
(v.) attribute; ascribe
Term
incarcerate
Definition
(v.) imprison
Term
incendiary
Definition
(n.) arsonist
Term
inchoate
Definition
(adj.) recently begun; rudimentary; elementary
Term
inclement
Definition
(adj.) stormy; unkind
Term
incontinent
Definition
(adj.) lacking self-restraint; licentious
Term
incubus
Definition
(n.) burden; mental care; nightmare
Term
incursion
Definition
(n.) temporary incasion
Term
indemnify
Definition
(v.) make secure against lost; compensate for lost
Term
indenture
Definition
(n.) bind as servent or apprentice to master
Term
indices
Definition
(n.) signs; indications
Term
indigence
Definition
(n.) poverty
Term
indissoluble
Definition
(adj.) permanent
Term
indite
Definition
(v.) write; compose
Term
ineffable
Definition
(adj.) unutterable; connot be expressed in speech
Term
ineluctable
Definition
(adj.) irresistible; not to be escaped
Term
inerrancy
Definition
(n.) infallibility
Term
inexorable
Definition
(adj.) relentless; unyielding; implacable
Term
infirmity
Definition
(n.) weakness
Term
inimical
Definition
(adj.) matchless; not able to be imitated
Term
inordinate
Definition
(adj.) unrestrained; excessive
Term
insalubrious
Definition
(adj.) unwholesome; not healthful
Term
inscrutable
Definition
(adj.) impenetrable; not readily understood
Term
insensate
Definition
(adj.) without feeling
Term
insidious
Definition
(adj.) treacherous; stealthy; sly
Term
insouciant
Definition
(adj.) indifferent; w/o concern or care
Term
inter
Definition
(v.) bury
Term
interdict
Definition
(v.) prohibit; forbit
Term
interloper
Definition
(n.) intruder
Term
internecine
Definition
(adj.) mutually destructive
Term
interregnum
Definition
(n.) period between two regions
Term
intimate
Definition
(v.) hint
Term
intransigence
Definition
(n.) refusal of any compromise; stubbornness
Term
inured
Definition
(adj.) accustomed; hardened
Term
invalidate
Definition
(v.) weaken; destroy
Term
invective
Definition
(n.) abuse
Term
inveigh
Definition
(v.) denounce; utter censure or invective
Term
inveigle
Definition
(v.) lead astray; wheedle
Term
inveterate
Definition
(adj.) deep-rooted; habitual
Term
invidious
Definition

(adj.) designed to create ill will or envy; hateful

 

"Her only defense was to sling invidious remarks at her colleagues"

Term
irresolute
Definition
(adj.) uncertain how to act; weak
Term
itinerant
Definition
(adj.) wandering; traveling
Term
jaundiced
Definition
(adj.) prejudiced (envious, hostile or resentful); yellowed
Term
jaunty
Definition
(adj.) lighthearted; animated; easy and carefree
Term
jibe
Definition
(v.) agree; be in harmony with
Term
jingoist
Definition
(n.) extremely aggressive and militant patriot; war-like chauvinist
Term
juggernaut
Definition
(n.) irresistible crushing force
Term
junket
Definition
(n.) trip, especially one taken for pleasure by an official at public expense
Term
junta
Definition
(n.) group of persons joined in political intrigue; cabal
Term
jurisprudence
Definition
(n.) science of law
Term
ken
Definition
(n.) range of knowledge
Term
kernel
Definition
(n.) central of vital part
Term
kismet
Definition
(n.) fate
Term
knoll
Definition
(n.) little, round hill
Term
labile
Definition
(adj.) likely to change; unstable
Term
lambaste
Definition
(v.) beat; thrash verbally or physically
Term
lancet
Definition
(n.) small surgical tool for making incisions
Term
languish
Definition
(v.) lose animation or strength
Term
languor
Definition
(n.) lassitude; depression
Term
larder
Definition
(n.) pantry; place where food is kept
Term
largess
Definition
(n.) generous gift
Term
lascivious
Definition
(adj.) lustful
Term
lassitude
Definition
(n.) languor; weariness
Term
lectern
Definition
(n.) reading desk
Term
leery
Definition
(adj.) suspicious; cautious
Term
legerdemain
Definition
(n.) sleight of hand
Term
leonine
Definition
(adj.) like a lion
Term
levity
Definition
(n.) lack of seriousness or steadiness; frivolity
Term
liability
Definition
(n.) drawback; debts
Term
libertine
Definition
(n.) debauched person; roue
Term
libidinous
Definition
(adj.) lustful
Term
licentious
Definition
(adj.) amoral; lewd and lascivious; unrestrained
Term
lilliputian
Definition
(adj.) extremely small
Term
limn
Definition
(v.) draw; outline; describe
Term
litany
Definition
(n.) supplicatory prayer
Term
lithe
Definition
(adj.) flexible; supple
Term
litotes
Definition
(n.) understatement for emphasis
Term
lout
Definition
(n.) clumsy person
Term
luminary
Definition
(n.) celebrity; dignitary
Term
lurid
Definition
(adj.) wild; sensational; graphic; gruesome
Term
macabre
Definition
(adj.) gruesome; grisly
Term
macerate
Definition
(v.) soften by soaking in liquid; waste away
Term
Machiavellian
Definition
(adj.) crafty; double-dealing
Term
machinations
Definition
(n.) evil schemes or plots
Term
maculated
Definition
(adj.) spotted; stained
Term
maelstrom
Definition
(n.) whirlpool
Term
magnate
Definition
(n.) person of prominence or influence
Term
magniloquent
Definition
(adj.) boastful; pompous
Term
malediction
Definition
(n.) curse
Term
malign
Definition
(v.) speak evil of; bad-mouth; defame
Term
malingerer
Definition
(n.) one who feigns illness to escape duty
Term
manacle
Definition
(v.) restrain; handcuff
Term
manumit
Definition
(v.) emancipate; free from bondage
Term
marshal
Definition
(v.) put in order
Term
martinet
Definition
(n.) a strict disciplinarian, esp. a military one
Term
masticate
Definition
(v.) chew
Term
mausoleum
Definition
(n.) monumental tomb
Term
mauve
Definition
(adj.) pale purple
Term
mawkish
Definition
(adj.) mushy and gushy; icky-sticky sentimental; maudlin
Term
mayhem
Definition
(n.) injury to body
Term
mealymouthed
Definition
(adj.) indirect in speech; hypocritical; evasive
Term
megalomania
Definition
(n.) mania for doing grandiose things
Term
melee
Definition
(n.) fight
Term
menagerie
Definition
(n.) collection of wild animals
Term
mendacious
Definition
(adj.) lying; habitually dishonest
Term
mendicant
Definition
(n.) beggar
Term
meretricious
Definition
(adj.) flashy; tawdry
Term
mete
Definition
(v.) measure; distribute
Term
mettle
Definition
(n.) courage; spirit
Term
miasma
Definition
(n.) pervasive corrupting influence
Term
militate
Definition
(v.) work against
Term
minatory
Definition
(adj.) menacing; threatening
Term
mincing
Definition
(adj.) affectedly dainty
Term
mire
Definition
(v.) entangle; stick in swampy ground
Term
misadventure
Definition
(n.) mischance; ill luck
Term
misapprehension
Definition
(n.) error; misunderstanding
Term
miscellany
Definition
(n.) mixture of writings on various subjects
Term
misogamy
Definition
(n.) hatred of marriage
Term
missive
Definition
(n.) letter
Term
modicum
Definition
(n.) limited quantity
Term
mogul
Definition
(n.) powerful person
Term
mollycoddle
Definition
(v.) pamper; indulge excessively
Term
momentous
Definition
(adj.) very important
Term
monolithic
Definition
(adj.) solidly uniform; unyielding
Term
moratorium
Definition
(n.) legal delay of payment
Term
mordant
Definition
(adj.) biting; sarcastic; stinging
Term
mores
Definition
(n.) conventions; moral standards; customs
Term
mortician
Definition
(n.) undertaker
Term
mote
Definition
(n.) small speck
Term
mottled
Definition
(adj.) blotched in coloring; spotted
Term
mountebank
Definition
(n.) charlatan; boastful pretender
Term
mulct
Definition
(v.) defraud a person of something
Term
multifarious
Definition
(adj.) varied
Term
munificent
Definition
(adj.) very generous
Term
nadir
Definition
(n. ) lowest point
Term
naivete
Definition
(n.) quality of being unsophisticated; simplicity; artlessness; gullibility
Term
nascent
Definition
(adj.) incipient; coming into being
Term
natation
Definition
(n.) swimming
Term
natty
Definition
(adj.) neatly or smartly dressed
Term
necromancy
Definition
(n.) black magic; dealings w/ the dead
Term
nefarious
Definition
(adj.) very wicked
Term
nemesis
Definition
(n.) someone seeking revenge
Term
neologism
Definition
(n.) new or newly coined word or phrase
Term
neophyte
Definition
(n.) recent convert; beginner
Term
nether
Definition
(v.) lower
Term
nettle
Definition
(v.) annoy; vex
Term
nexus
Definition
(n.) connection
Term
nicety
Definition
(n.) precision; minute distinction
Term
niggardly
Definition
(adj.) meanly stingy; parsimonious
Term
niggle
Definition
(v.) spend too much time on minor points; carp
Term
noncommittal
Definition
(adj.) neutral; unpledged; perplexed
Term
nonplus
Definition
(v.) bring to a halt by confusion; perplex
Term
nostrum
Definition
(n.) questionable medicine
Term
nubile
Definition
(adj.) marriageable
Term
nugatory
Definition
(adj.) futile; worthless
Term
numismatist
Definition
(n.) person who collects coins
Term
obdurate
Definition
(adj.) stubborn
Term
obeisance
Definition
(n.) bow
Term
oblivion
Definition
(n.) obscurity; forgetfulness
Term
obloquy
Definition
(n.) slander; disgrace; infamy
Term
obsequy
Definition
(n.) funeral ceremony
Term
obstreperous
Definition
(adj.) boisterous; noisy
Term
obviate
Definition
(v.) make unnecessary; get rid of
Term
Occident
Definition
(n.) the West
Term
occlude
Definition
(v.) shut; close
Term
occult
Definition
(adj.) mysterious; secret; supernatural
Term
odium
Definition
(n.) detestation; hatefulness; disrepute
Term
odoriferous
Definition
(adj.) giving off an odor
Term
onerous
Definition
(adj.) burdensome
Term
onus
Definition
(n.) burden; responsibility
Term
opalescent
Definition
(adj.) iridescent; lustrous
Term
opprobrium
Definition
(n.) infamy; vilification
Term
opulence
Definition
(n.) extreme wealth; luxuriousness; abundance
Term
oracular
Definition
(adj.) prophetic; uttered as if w/ divine authority; mysterious or ambiguous
Term
ordinance
Definition
(n.) decree
Term
ordination
Definition
(n.) ceremony conferring holy orders
Term
orthography
Definition
(n.) correct spelling
Term
overt
Definition
(adj.) open to view
Term
overweening
Definition
(adj.) presumptuous; arrogant
Term
ovoid
Definition
(adj.) egg-shaped
Term
pachyderm
Definition
(n.) thick-skinned animal
Term
paean
Definition
(n.) song of praise or joy
Term
palatable
Definition
(adj.) agreeable; pleasing to the taste
Term
palatial
Definition
(adj.) magnificent
Term
palimpsest
Definition
(n.) parchment used for the second time after original writing has been erased
Term
pall
Definition
(v.) grow tiresome
Term
pallet
Definition
(n.) small, poor bed
Term
palliate
Definition
(v.) ease pain; make less severe or offensive
Term
pallid
Definition
(adj.) pale; wan
Term
palpitate
Definition
(v.) throb; flutter
Term
pan
Definition
(v.) criticize harshly
Term
panache
Definition
(n.) flair; flamboyance
Term
pandemic
Definition
(adj.) widespread; affecting the majority of people
Term
pander
Definition
(v.) cater to the low desires of others
Term
panegyric
Definition
(n.) formal praise
Term
paramount
Definition
(adj.) foremost in importance; supreme
Term
parity
Definition
(n.) equality; close resemblance
Term
parlance
Definition
(n.) language; idiom
Term
parley
Definition
(n.) conference
Term
paroxysm
Definition
(n.) fit or attack of pain, laughter, rage
Term
parry
Definition
(v.) ward off a blow; deflect
Term
partisan
Definition
(adj.) one-sided; prejudiced; commited to a party
Term
passe
Definition
(adj.) old-fashioned; past the prime
Term
pastiche
Definition
(n.) imitation of another's style in musical composition or in writing
Term
patios
Definition
(n.) local or provincial dialect
Term
peccadillo
Definition
(n.) slight offense
Term
pedant
Definition
(n.) scholar who overemphasizes book learning or technicalities
Term
pejorative
Definition
(adj.) negative in connotation; having a belittling effect
Term
pell-mell
Definition
(adv.) in confusion; disorderly
Term
penumbra
Definition
(n.) partial shadow (in an eclipse)
Term
penury
Definition
(n.) severe poverty; stinginess
Term
peregrination
Definition
(n.) journey
Term
peremptory
Definition
(adj.) demanding and leaving no choice
Term
perfidious
Definition
(adj.) treacherous; disloyal
Term
perigee
Definition
(n.) point of moon' sorbit when it is nearest to the earth
Term
peripatetic
Definition
(adj.) walking about; moving
Term
pernicious
Definition
(adj.) very destructive
Term
peroration
Definition
(n.) conclusion of an oration
Term
perpetrate
Definition
(v.) commit an offense
Term
perspicacious
Definition
(adj.) having insight; penetrating; astute
Term
perspicuity
Definition
(n.) clearness of expression; freedom from ambiguity
Term
perspicuous
Definition
(adj.) plainly expressed
Term
pert
Definition
(adj.) impertinent; forward
Term
pertinacious
Definition
(adj.) stubborn; forward
Term
pestilential
Definition
(adj.) causing plague; baneful
Term
petuland
Definition
(adj.) touchy; peevish
Term
pharisaical
Definition
(adj.) self righteous; hypocritical
Term
philanderer
Definition
(n.) faithless lover; flirt
Term
philatelist
Definition
(n.) stamp-collector
Term
philistine
Definition
(n.) narrow-minded person, uncultured and excessively interested in material gain
Term
philology
Definition
(n.) study of language
Term
phlegmatic
Definition
(adj.) calm; not easily disturbed
Term
pied
Definition
(adj.) variegated; multicolored
Term
pillory
Definition
(v.) punish by placing in a wooden frame; subject to criticism and ridicule
Term
pinion
Definition
(v.) restrain
Term
piquant
Definition
(adj.) pleasantly tart-tasting; stimulating
Term
piscatorial
Definition
(adj.) pertaining to fishing
Term
pittance
Definition
(n.) small allowance or wage
Term
platitude
Definition
(n.) trite remark; commonplace statement
Term
plaudit
Definition
(n.) enthusiastic approval; round of applause
Term
plenary
Definition
(adj.) complete; full
Term
plenitude
Definition
(n.) abundance; completeness
Term
pluck
Definition
(n.) courage
Term
plutocracy
Definition
(n.) society ruled by the wealthy
Term
polemic
Definition
(n.) controversy; argument in support of point of view
Term
polemical
Definition
(adj.) aggressive in verbal attack; disputatious
Term
politic
Definition
(adj.) expedient; prudent; well devised
Term
polity
Definition
(n.) form of government of nation or state
Term
pontifical
Definition
(adj.) pertaining to a bishop or pope; pompous or pretentious
Term
portend
Definition
(v.) foretell; forewarning
Term
potable
Definition
(adj.) suitable for drinking
Term
potentate
Definition
(n.) monarch; sovereign
Term
poultice
Definition
(n.) soothing application applied to sore and inflamed portions of the body
Term
prate
Definition
(v.) speak foolishly; boast idly
Term
prattle
Definition
(v.) babble
Term
precept
Definition
(n.) practical rule guiding conduct
Term
preclude
Definition
(v.) make impossible; eliminate
Term
predicament
Definition
(n.) tricky or dangerous situation; dilemma
Term
prefatory
Definition
(adj.) introductory
Term
prelate
Definition
(n.) church dignitary
Term
preponderance
Definition
(n.) superiority of power, quantity, etc
Term
presage
Definition
(v.) foretell
Term
prescience
Definition
(n.) ability to foretell the future
Term
presentiment
Definition
(n.) feeling that something will happen; anticipatory fear; premonition
Term
preternatural
Definition
(adj.) beyond that which is normal in nature
Term
prevaricate
Definition

(v.) lie

 

"Her incessant prevarications lost her the trust of friends and colleagues"

Term
prevaricate
Definition
(v.) lie
Term
primogeniture
Definition
(n.) seniority by birth
Term
primordial
Definition
(adj.) existing at the beginning (of time); rudimentary
Term
pristine
Definition
(adj.) characteristic of earlier times; primitive; unspoiled
Term
privation
Definition
(n.) hardship; want
Term
privy
Definition
(adj.) secret; hidden; not public
Term
probity
Definition
(n.) uprightness; incorruptibility
Term
proclivity
Definition
(n.) inclination; natural tendency
Term
prodigious
Definition
(adj.) marvelous; enormous
Term
profligate
Definition
(adj.) dissipated; wasteful; wildly immoral
Term
progenitor
Definition
(n.) ancestor
Term
progeny
Definition
(n.) children; offspring
Term
prognosis
Definition
(n.) forecasted course of a disease; prediction
Term
prognosticate
Definition
(v.) predict
Term
prolixity
Definition
(n.) tedious wordiness; verbosity
Term
promulgate
Definition
(v.) proclaim a doctrine or law; make known by official publication
Term
propensity
Definition
(n.) natural inclination
Term
prophylactic
Definition
(adj.) used to prevent disease
Term
propinquity
Definition
(n.) nearness; kinship
Term
propitiate
Definition
(v.) appease
Term
test
Definition
test
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