Vocabulary

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Vocabulary
Word list - A
abacus
an instrument for performing calculations by sliding counters along rods
or in grooves
abandon
to give (oneself) over unrestrainedly
abase
To lower in rank, prestige, or esteem
abash
to destroy the self-possession or self-confidence of:disconcert
abate
to reduce in degree or intensity:MODERATE:to reduce in value or
amount
abbreviate
to make briefer; especially :to reduce to a shorter form intended to stand
for the whole
abdicate
to relinquish (as sovereign power) formally
aberrant
deviating from the usual or natural type:ATYPICAL
abet
to assist or support in the achievement of a purpose
abeyance
temporary inactivity:SUSPENSION
abhor
to regard with extreme repugnance
abiding
to remain stable or fixed in a state
abject
cast down in spirit
abjure
to renounce upon oath
abnegate
SURRENDER, RELINQUISH
abolish
To do away with; annul
abolitionism
principles or measures fostering abolition especially of slavery
aboveboard
be in a straightforward manner
abrasion
a wearing, grinding, or rubbing away by friction
abridge
to shorten by omission of words without sacrifice of sense:CONDENSE
abrogate
to abolish by authoritative action:ANNUL
abscond
to depart secretly and hide oneself
absolve
to set free from an obligation or the consequences of guilt
abstain
to refrain deliberately and often with an effort of self-denial from an
action or practice
abstemious
marked by restraint especially in the consumption of food or alcohol
abstinent
voluntary forbearance especially from indulgence of an appetite or craving
or from eating some foods:ABSTENTION
abstract
having only intrinsic form with little or no attempt at pictorial
representation or narrative content
abstruse
difficult to comprehend:RECONDITE
abuse
to attack in words:REVILE
abysmal
immeasurably low or wretched
accede
to express approval or give consent:give in to a request or demand
accelerate
to move faster:gain speed
accessible
capable of being understood or appreciated
accessory
present in a minor amount and not essential as a constituent
accidental
occurring unexpectedly or by chance
acclimate
to adapt to a new temperature, altitude, climate, environment, or situation
accolade
an expression of praise
accommodate
to provide with something desired, needed, or suited (as a helpful service,
a loan, or lodgings)
accomplice
one associated with another especially in wrongdoing
accost
to approach and speak to often in a challenging or aggressive way
accrete
ACCUMULATE
accumulate
to gather or pile up especially little by little:AMASS
accuse
to charge with a fault or offense:BLAME
acerbity
Sourness of taste, character, or tone.
achromatic
designating color perceived to have zero saturation and therefore no hue,
such as neutral grays, white, or black
acme
the highest point or stage
acquiesce
to accept, comply, or submit tacitly or passively
acquisition
the act of acquiring
acquit
to discharge completely
acre
A unit of area in the U.S. Customary System, used in land and sea floor
measurement
acrid
sharp and harsh or unpleasantly pungent in taste or odor:IRRITATING
acrimonious
caustic , biting , or rancorous especially in feeling, language, or manner
acumen
mental keenness
ad lib
without restraint or limit , to speak, sing, or act without a script, saying
whatever words come into one's mind
adamant
unshakable or immovable especially in opposition:UNYIELDING
adapt
to make fit (as for a specific or new use or situation) often by modification
addendum
textual matter that is added onto a publication; usually at the end
addict
to devote or surrender (oneself) to something habitually or obsessively
addicted
be addicted to
adherent
one that adheres:as a follower of a leader, party, or profession
adhesive
Tending to adhere; sticky.
adjacent
having a common endpoint or border also immediately preceding or
following
adjourn
to suspend a session indefinitely or to another time or place
adjunct
something joined or added to another thing but not essentially a part of it
ad-lib
with little or no preparation or forethought
admission
the act or process of admitting
admonish
to express warning or disapproval to especially in a gentle, earnest, or
solicitous manner
adore
to regard with loving admiration and devotion
adroit
having or showing skill, cleverness, or resourcefulness in handling
situations
adulate
to flatter or admire excessively or slavishly
adulterate
to corrupt, debase, or make impure by the addition of a foreign or inferior
substance or element stickler
adumbrate
to suggest or disclose partially
adversary
one that contends with, opposes, or resists:ENEMY
advert
to turn the mind or attention
advertise
to announce publicly especially by a printed notice or a broadcast
advocate
to plead in favor of
aerate
to supply (the blood) with oxygen by respiration
aerial
of, relating to, or occurring in the air or atmosphere
aesthetic
adj. a branch of philosophy dealing with the nature of beauty, art, and taste
and with the creation and appreciation of beauty
aesthetics
The branch of philosophy that deals with the nature and expression of
beauty
affable
characterized by ease and friendliness
affected
assumed artificially or falsely:PRETENDED
affection
tender attachment:FONDNESS
affidavit
a sworn statement in writing made especially under oath or on affirmation
before an authorized magistrateor officer
affiliate
to bring or receive into close connection as a member or branch
affiliation
joining; associating with
affinity
likeness based on relationship or causal connection
afflict
a:to distress so severely as to cause persistent suffering or anguish
b:TROUBLE, INJURE
affliction
n.
affluent
having a generously sufficient and typically increasing supply of material
possessions
agenda
a list or outline of things to be considered or done
aggrandize
to make appear great or greater:praise highly
aggravate
to make worse, more serious, or more severe:intensify unpleasantly
aggregate
to collect or gather into a mass or whole
aggressive
Inclined to behave in a hostile fashion.
aggrieve
to give pain or trouble to:DISTRESS
agonized
suffered extreme pain or great anguish.
agony
intense pain of mind or body:ANGUISH, TORTURE
airtight
impermeable to air or nearly so
alacrity
promptness in response:cheerful readiness
albino
an organism exhibiting deficient pigmentation
alchemy
a medieval chemical science and speculative philosophy aiming to achieve
the transmutation of the base metals into gold, the discovery of a universal
cure for disease, and the discovery of a means of indefinitely prolonging
life
alibi
an excuse usually intended to avert blame or punishment
align
to bring into line or alignment
allay
to subdue or reduce in intensity or severity:ALLEVIATE
allegiance
devotion or loyalty to a person, group, or cause
allegory
the expression by means of symbolic fictional figures and actions of truths
or generalizations abouthuman existence
alleviate
RELIEVE, LESSEN
alliterate
the repetition of usually initial consonant sounds in two or more
neighboring words or syllables
allowance
a share or portion allotted or granted
allude
to make indirect reference; broadly:REFER
aloft
at or toward the upper rigging.
aloof
removed or distant either physically or emotionally
alphabetical
arranged in the order of the letters of the alphabet
altitude
Vertical distance or elevation above any point or base-level, as the sea.
altruism
unselfish regard for or devotion to the welfare of others
amalgamate
to merge into a single body
amass
to collect for oneself:ACCUMULATE
ambiguous
doubtful or uncertain especially from obscurity or indistinctness
ambivalent
continual fluctuation (as between one thing and its opposite)
amble
to walk slowly or leisurely; stroll
ambrosial
suggestive of ambrosia; fragrant or delicious
ameliorate
to make better or more tolerable
amenable
readily managed; willing to be led
amenity
something that conduces to comfort, convenience, or enjoyment
amiable
being friendly, sociable, and congenial
amicable
characterized by friendly goodwill:PEACEABLE
amiss
in a faulty way:IMPERFECTLY
amorphous
having no definite form:SHAPELESS
amphibian
any of a class (Amphibia) of cold-blooded vertebrates (as frogs, toads, or
salamanders) intermediate in many characters between fishes and reptiles
and having gilled aquatic larvae and air-breathing adults
amplify
to make larger or greater (as in amount, importance, or
intensity):INCREASE
amplitude
the quality or state of being ample:FULLNESS
amulet
a charm (as an ornament) often inscribed with a magic incantation or
symbol to protect the wearer against evil (as disease or witchcraft) or to
aid him
anaerobic
living, active, occurring, or existing in the absence of free oxygen
analgesic
insensibility to pain without loss of consciousness
analogy
a:resemblance in some particulars between things otherwise
unlike:SIMILARITY b:comparison based on such resemblance
analysis
separation of a whole into its component parts
anarchist
one who rebels against any authority, established order, or ruling power
anathema
the denunciation of something as accursed
ancestor
one from whom a person is descended and who is usually more remote in
the line of descent than a grandparent
ancillary
serving as an aid or accessory; auxiliary
anecdote
a usually short narrative of an interesting, amusing, or biographical
incident
anemic
lacking force, vitality, or spirit
anesthetic
lacking awareness or sensitivity
anhydrous
free from water and especially water of crystallization
animation
possessing or characterized by life:ALIVE
animus
a usually prejudiced and often spiteful or malevolent ill will
annals
a record of events arranged in yearly sequence
annotate
comment; make explanatory notes
annoy
to disturb or irritate especially by repeated acts
annul
to declare or make legally invalid or void
anodyne
something that soothes, calms, or comforts
anomalous
inconsistent with or deviating from what is usual, normal, or
expected:IRREGULAR, UNUSUAL
anonymous
not named or identified
antagonize
to incur or provoke the hostility of
antediluvian
made, evolved, or developed a long time ago
anterior
coming before in time or development
anthology
a collection of selected literary pieces or passages or works of art or music
antic
characterized by clownish extravagance or absurdity
anticipatory
to give advance thought, discussion, or treatment to
antidote
a remedy to counteract the effects of poison
antipathy
settled aversion or dislike:DISTASTE
antiquate
To make old or out of date.
antiquated
existing since or belonging to earlier times:ANCIENT
antiseptic
opposing sepsis, putrefaction, or decay;
anvil
a heavy usually steel-faced iron block on which metal is shaped
apathy
lack of feeling or emotion:IMPASSIVENESS
apex
the highest or culminating point
aphorism
a terse formulation of a truth or sentiment:ADAGE
apiary
a place where bees are kept; especially :a collection of hives or colonies of
bees kept for their honey
aplomb
poise
apocalyptic
forecasting the ultimate destiny of the world:PROPHETIC
apocrypha
writings or statements of dubious authenticity
apologist
one who speaks or writes in defense of someone or something
apophasis
Allusion to something by denying that it will be mentioned, as in I will not
bring up my opponent's questionable financial dealings
apoplectic
greatly agitated
apostasy
renunciation of a religious faith
apostrophe
a mark ' used to indicate the omission of letters or figures, the possessive
case, or the plural of letters or figures
apothecary
one who prepares and sells drugs or compounds for medicinal purposes
appall
to overcome with consternation, shock, or dismay
apparel
to put clothes on:DRESS
appeal
to make an earnest request
appealing
having appeal:PLEASING
appease
to bring to a state of peace or quiet:CALM
appellation
A name, title, or designation.
appetite
an inherent craving
applause
approval publicly expressed
applicant
one who applies
appoint
to name officially
apposite
highly pertinent or appropriate:APT
appreciable
capable of being perceived or measured
apprehension suspicion or fear especially of future evil:FOREBODING
apprentice
an inexperienced person:NOVICE
approbation
COMMENDATION, PRAISE
appropriate
1. to take or make use of without authority or right 2. especially suitable or
compatible:FITTING
approval
The act of approving
approve
to have or express a favorable opinion of
approximate
nearly correct or exact
apropos
being both relevant and opportune
apt
unusually fitted or qualified:READY
aquatic
growing or living in or frequenting water
aqueduct
a conduit for water
aquifer
a water-bearing stratum of permeable rock, sand, or gravel
arachnid
any of a class (Arachnida) of arthropods comprising chiefly terrestrial
invertebrates, including the spiders, scorpions, mites, and ticks, and
having a segmented body divided into two regions of which the anterior
bears four pairs of legs but no antennae
arbor
a shelter of vines or branches or of latticework covered with climbing
shrubs or vines
arboreal
of, relating to, or resembling a tree
archaic
of, relating to, or characteristic of an earlier or more primitive
time:ANTIQUATED
archetype
the original pattern or model of which all things of the same type are
representations or copies:PROTOTYPE; also :a perfect example
archipelago
an expanse of water with many scattered islands
architect
a person who designs buildings and advises in their construction
archive
a place in which public records or historical documents are preserved
arctic
bitter cold:FRIGID
ardor
extreme vigor or energy:INTENSITY
arduous
hard to accomplish or achieve:DIFFICULT
argot
an often more or less secret vocabulary and idiom peculiar to a particular
group
arid
excessively dry
armory
a place where arms and military equipment are stored
arrest
to make inactive
arresting
catching the attention:STRIKING, IMPRESSIVE
arrhythmic
lacking rhythm or regularity
arrogance
a feeling or an impression of superiority manifested in an overbearing
manner or presumptuous claims
arroyo
a brook; a creek ;a water-carved gully or channel
arsenal
a:an establishment for the manufacture or storage of arms and military
equipmentb:a collection of weapons
articulate
to give clear and effective utterance to:put into
wordsratiocination:thinking:articulation:talking
artifacts
something created by humans usually for a practical purpose; especially
:an object remaining from a particular period
artifice
false or insincere behavior
artless
free from guile or craft:sincerely simple
ascendant
governing or controlling influence:DOMINATION
ascent
an upward slope or rising grade:ACCLIVITY
ascetic
austere in appearance, manner, or attitude
aseptic
preventing infection
askew
out of line:AWRY
aspect
a position facing a particular direction:EXPOSURE
asperity
roughness of manner or of temper:HARSHNESS
aspersion
slanderous remark
aspirant
One who aspires, as to advancement, honors, or a high position.
aspiration
a strong desire to achieve something high or great
assert
to state or declare positively and often forcefully or aggressively
assess
to determine the importance, size, or value of
asset
the entire property of a person, association, corporation, or estate
applicable or subject to the payment of debts
assiduous
marked by careful unremitting attention or persistent application
assuage
to lessen the intensity of (something that pains or distresses):EASE
assume
to take to or upon oneself:UNDERTAKE
astounding
causing astonishment or amazement
astute
having or showing shrewdness and perspicacity
asylum
an inviolable place of refuge and protection giving shelter to criminals and
debtors:SANCTUARY
asymmetrical not of equal size or similar shape:
atone
to supply satisfaction for:EXPIATE
atrocious
extremely wicked, brutal, or cruel:BARBARIC
attenuate
to lessen the amount, force, magnitude, or value of:WEAKEN
attorney
A person legally appointed by another to act as his or her agent in the
transaction of business, specifically one qualified and licensed to act for
plaintiffs and defendants in legal proceedings
audacious
intrepidly daring:ADVENTUROUS
audible
heard or capable of being heard
augur
to foretell especially from omens
auspicious
affording a favorable auspice:PROPITIOUS
austere
markedly simple or unadorned
authenticity
not false or imitation:REAL, ACTUAL
authoritative having the weight of authority; dictatorial
authority
power to influence or command thought, opinion, or behavior
autocracy
government in which one person possesses unlimited power
avarice
excessive or insatiable desire for wealth or gain:GREEDINESS,
CUPIDITY
aversion
a feeling of repugnance toward something with a desire to avoid or turn
from
avid
characterized by enthusiasm and vigorous pursuit
avulse
to separate, cut, or tear off by avulsion
awash
covered with water:FLOODED
awe
an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder that is
inspired by authority or by the sacred or sublime
awkward
lacking dexterity or skill
awl
a pointed tool for marking surfaces or piercing small holes (as in leather or
wood)
awning
a rooflike cover extending over or in front of a place (as over the deck or
in front of a door or window) as a shelter
awry
in a turned or twisted position or direction:ASKEW
Word list - B
babble
to utter meaningless or unintelligible sounds
backhanded
INDIRECT, DEVIOUS; especially:SARCASTIC
backset
SETBACK
badge
a device or token especially of membership in a society or group
badger
to harass or annoy persistently
badinage
playful repartee:BANTER
baffle
to check or break the force or flow of by or as if by a baffle
bait
ENTICE, LUREto attack in speech or writing as by derision or insult; to
gall or exasperate by repeated wanton attacks
baleful
deadly or pernicious in influence
balk
to check or stop by or as if by an obstacle:BLOCK
balky
refusing or likely to refuse to proceed, act, or function as directed or
expected
ballad
a narrative composition in rhythmic verse suitable for singing
ballast
Heavy material that is placed in the hold of a ship or the gondola of a
balloon to enhance stability.
ballet
a theatrical art form using dancing, music, and scenery to convey a story,
theme, or atmosphere
balm
a balsamic resin, especially:one from small tropical evergreen trees
balmy
having the qualities of balm:SOOTHING
bamboozle
to deceive by underhanded methods:DUPE, HOODWINK
ban
to prohibit especially by legal means ban:protect
banal
lacking originality, freshness, or novelty:TRITE
baneful
productive of destruction or woe:seriously harmful
banish
to drive out or remove from a home or place of usual resort or
continuance, especially compulsory removal from a country not
necessarily one's own
banister
a handrail with its supporting posts
banquet
a sumptuous feast; especially :an elaborate and often ceremonious meal for
numerous people often in honor of a person
barb
a biting or pointedly critical remark or comment
barbarous
mercilessly harsh or cruel
bareface
Having no covering over the face.
barefaced
OPEN, UNCONCEALED
bargain
to negotiate over the terms of a purchase, agreement, or contract:HAGGLE
baroque
characterized by grotesqueness, extravagance, complexity, or flamboyance
barren
lacking vegetation, especially useful vegetation
barter
to trade by exchanging one commodity for another
base
being of comparatively low value and having relatively inferior properties
baseboard
a molding covering the joint of a wall and the adjoining floor
bathetic
exceptional commonplaceness:TRITENESS
bedeck
to clothe with finery:DECK
bedlam
a place, scene, or state of uproar and confusion
belabor
to explain or insist on excessively
beleaguer
TROUBLE, HARASS
belie
to show (something) to be false or wrong
belittle
to speak slightingly of:DISPARAGE
bellicose
favoring or inclined to start quarrels or wars
belligerence
an aggressive or truculent attitude, atmosphere, or disposition
bellwether
One that serves as a leader or as a leading indicator of future trends
bemoan
to express deep grief or distress over
bend
to make submissive:SUBDUE,COMPROMISE
benediction
the invocation of a blessing
beneficent
doing or producing good; especially :performing acts of kindness and
charity
benign
a:showing kindness and gentleness b:FAVORABLE, WHOLESOME
bent
a strong inclination or interest:BIAS
bequest
something bequeathed:LEGACY
berate
to scold or condemn vehemently and at length
beseech
to request earnestly:IMPLORE
besmirch
SULLY, SOIL
betray
to deliver to an enemy by treachery
bibliography
a list of writings with time and place of publication (such as the writings of
a single author or the works referred to in preparing a document etc.)
bibliophile
a lover of books especially for qualities of format; also :a book collector
bigot
a person obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and
prejudices
bit
the jaws of tongs or pincers
bland
not irritating, stimulating, or invigorating:SOOTHING
blandishment something that tends to coax or cajole:ALLUREMENT
blase
bored with pleasure or dissipation
blaspheme
to speak of or address with irreverence
blast
a violent gust of wind
blatant
completely obvious, conspicuous, or obtrusive especially in a crass or
offensive manner:BRAZEN
blazon
to publish widely:PROCLAIM
bleach
to remove color or stains from
blemish
to spoil by a flaw
blight
a disease or injury of plants resulting in withering, cessation of growth,
and death of parts without rotting
bliss
complete happiness
blunder
a gross error or mistake resulting usually from stupidity, ignorance, or
carelessness
blunt
to make less sharp or definite
blur
to make indistinct and hazy in outline or appearance;obscure
blurb
A brief publicity notice, as on a book jacket.
blurt
to utter abruptly and impulsively ? usually used with out
bluster
to talk or act with noisy swaggering threats
boding
an omen, prediction, or presentiment especially of coming evil:PORTENT
,FOREBODING
boggle
to hesitate because of doubt, fear, or scruples
boisterous
noisily turbulent:ROWDY
bolster
a structural part designed to eliminate friction or provide support or
bearing
bombast
pretentious inflated speech or writing
bonhomie
good-natured easy friendliness
bonus
something in addition to what is expected or strictly due
boo
to deride especially by uttering boo
boon
BENEFIT, FAVOR
boor
a rude or insensitive person
bootless
USELESS, UNPROFITABLE
bore
to make a hole by or as if by boring
bottleneck
NARROW {bottleneck:indefinite} ??????
bough
a branch of a tree; especially :a main branch
bound
a:to make secure by tying b:to confine, restrain, or restrict as if with bonds
c:to put under an obligation d:to constrain with legal authority
box
to fight with the fists:engage in boxing box:fight:debate:argue
bracing
giving strength, vigor, or freshness
bracket
an overhanging member that projects from a structure (as a wall) and is
usually designed to support a vertical load or to strengthen an angle
brackish
REPULSIVE
braggadocio a:empty boasting b:arrogant pretension:COCKINESS
braid
made by intertwining three or more strands
braided
Produced by or as if by braiding
brake
to retard or stop by a brake
brash
done in haste without regard for consequences
brassy
being shamelessly bold
brattish
an ill-mannered annoying child
bravura
marked by an ostentatious display of skill
bray
to emit (an utterance or a sound) loudly and harshly
brazen
marked by contemptuous boldness
breach
to make a breach in
breezeway
a roofed often open passage connecting two buildings (as a house and
garage) or halves of a building
brevity
shortness or conciseness of expression
bribe
to induce or influence by or as if by bribery
bridle
to restrain, check, or control with or as if with a bridle
brisk
keenly alert:LIVELY
bristle
to take on an aggressive attitude or appearance (as in response to a slight)
brittle
easily broken, cracked, or snapped
broach
to open for the first time
bromide
a commonplace or hackneyed statement or notion
browbeat
to intimidate by a stern manner or arrogant speech
bruit
to noise abroad:REPORT
buck
to refuse assent:BALK
bucolic
relating to or typical of rural life
budge
to give way:YIELD
buffer
to lessen the shock of:CUSHION
buffoon
a ludicrous figure:CLOWN
bulge
a protuberant or swollen part or place
bully
one habitually cruel to others who are weaker
bumper
a device for absorbing shock or preventing damage
bumptious
presumptuously, obtusely, and often noisily self-assertive:OBTRUSIVE
bungle
to act or work clumsily and awkwardly
buoy
support;uplift
buoyant
a:capable of floating b:CHEERFUL, GAY
burgeon
to grow and expand rapidly:FLOURISH
burial
the act or process of burying
burlesque
mockery usually by caricature
burnish
to make shiny or lustrous especially by rubbing
numb:insensible:burnish:lustrous
burrow
to construct by tunneling
busybody
an officious or inquisitive person
butt
to thrust or push head foremost:strike with the head or horns
buttress
1. to furnish or shore up with a buttress; also :SUPPORT, STRENGTHEN
2. a projecting structure of masonry or wood for supporting or giving
stability to a wall or building
bygone
gone by:PAST; especially:OUTMODED
byline
a line at the beginning of a news story, magazine article, or book giving
the writer's name
Word list - C
cabal
the artifices and intrigues of a group of persons secretly united to bring
about an overturn or usurpation especially in public affairs
cache
hiding place
cacophony
harsh or discordant sound:DISSONANCE
cadet
one in training for a military or naval commission; especially :a student
in a service academy
cadge
BEG, SPONGE
caisson
a usually 2-wheeled vehicle for artillery ammunition attachable to a
horse-drawn limber
cajole
to persuade with flattery or gentle urging especially in the face of
reluctance:COAX
calamity
An event that brings terrible loss, lasting distress, or severe affliction; a
disaster:
calcify
to make inflexible or unchangeable
calibrate
to determine, rectify, or mark the graduations of
calligrapher
one who writes a beautiful
callous
a:feeling no emotion b:feeling no sympathy for others
callow
lacking adult sophistication:IMMATURE
callus
a thickening of or a hard thickened area on skin or bark
calorie
the amount of heat required at a pressure of one atmosphere to raise the
temperature of one gram of water one degree Celsius that is equal to
about 4.19 joules
calumniate
to utter maliciously false statements, charges, or imputations about
camaraderie
a spirit of friendly good-fellowship
cameo
a:a small piece of sculpture on a stone or shell cut in relief in one layer
with another contrasting layer serving as backgroundb:A brief but
dramatic appearance of a prominent actor, as in a single scene of a
motion picture.
camouflage
behavior or artifice designed to deceive or hide
candidate
one that aspires to or is nominated or qualified for an office,
membership, or award
candor
unreserved, honest, or sincere expression:FORTHRIGHTNESS
cane
A stick used as an aid in walking or carried as an accessory
canon
a regulation or dogma decreed by a church council
canonical
appearing in a biblical canon ; of or relating to or required by canon law
canopy
a cover (as of cloth) fixed or carried above a person of high rank or a
sacred object:BALDACHIN
cantankerous
difficult or irritating to deal with
canvas
a piece of cloth backed or framed as a surface for a painting
canvass
to seek orders or votes:SOLICIT
canyon
a deep narrow valley with steep sides and often with a stream flowing
through it
capitulate
to cease resisting:ACQUIESCE
caprice
a sudden, impulsive, and seemingly unmotivated notion or action
caption
the part of a legal document that shows where, when, and by what
authority it was taken, found, or executed
captivate
to influence and dominate by some special charm, art, or trait and with
an irresistible appeal
carefree
Free of worries and responsibilities.
careworn
showing the effect of grief or anxiety
caricature
exaggeration by means of often ludicrous distortion of parts or
characteristics
carnal
fleshly
carouse
to drink liquor deeply or freely
carp
to find fault or complain querulously
cartographer
one that makes maps
cast
the set of actors in a dramatic production; to assign a certain role to (an
actor)
castigate
to subject to severe punishment, reproof, or criticism
castigation
severe punishment
catalyze
BRING ABOUT, INSPIRE supervisor:oversight,catalysis:initiate
cataract
WATERFALL; especially:a large one over a precipice
catastrophe
a momentous tragic event ranging from extreme misfortune to utter
overthrow or ruin
categorical
ABSOLUTE, UNQUALIFIED
cater
to supply what is required or desired
catholic
COMPREHENSIVE, UNIVERSAL; especially :broad in sympathies,
tastes, or interests
caustic
marked by incisive sarcasm
cavalier
A gallant or chivalrous man, especially one serving as escort to a
woman of high social position; a gentleman
caveat
a warning enjoining one from certain acts or practices
cavern
CAVE; especially:one of large or indefinite extent
cavil
to raise trivial and frivolous objection
cavort
to walk or move in a spirited manner:PRANCE
cede
to yield or grant typically by treaty
celebrity
the state of being celebrated
cement
a binding element or agency:as a substance to make objects adhere to
each other
censor
to examine in order to suppress or delete anything considered
objectionable
censorious
marked by or given to censure
censure
to find fault with and criticize as blameworthy
census
a count of the population
centrifuge
a machine using centrifugal force for separating substances of different
densities, for removing moisture, or for simulating gravitational effects
ceramic
of or relating to the manufacture of any product (as earthenware,
porcelain, or brick) made essentially from a nonmetallic mineral (as
clay) by firing at a high temperature
ceremony
a formal act or series of acts prescribed by ritual, protocol, or convention
certitude
the state of being or feeling certain
cessation
a temporary or final ceasing (as of action):STOP
chaff
the seed coverings and other debris separated from the seed in threshing
grain
chagrin
disquietude or distress of mind caused by humiliation, disappointment,
or failure
chameleon
any of a family (Chamaeleontidae) of chiefly arboreal Old World lizards
with prehensile tail, independently movable eyeballs, and unusual ability
to change the color of the skin
champion
to act as militant supporter of:UPHOLD, ADVOCATE
chaotic
a:a state of utter confusion b:a confused mass or mixture
charade
a word represented in riddling verse or by picture, tableau, or dramatic
action
charlatan
one making usually showy pretenses to knowledge or ability:FRAUD,
FAKER
chary
discreetly cautious:as a:hesitant and vigilant about dangers and risks
b:slow to grant, accept, or expend
chasm
a deep cleft in the surface of a planet (as the earth):GORGE
check
to block the progress of
chef
a skilled cook who manages the kitchen (as of a restaurant)
cherubic
innocent-looking usually chubby and rosy
chevron
a sleeve badge that usually consists of one or more chevron-shaped
stripes that indicates the wearer's rank and service (as in the armed
forces)
chiaroscuro
the interplay or contrast of dissimilar qualities, pictorial representation
in terms of light and shade without regard to color
chic
smart elegance and sophistication especially of dress or manner:STYLE
chicanery
deception by artful subterfuge or sophistry:TRICKERY
chide
to voice disapproval to:reproach in a usually mild and constructive
manner:SCOLD
chip
a small usually thin and flat piece (as of wood or stone) cut, struck, or
flaked off
choke
to check normal breathing of by compressing or obstructing the trachea
or by poisoning or adulterating available air
choleric
easily moved to often unreasonable or excessive anger:hot-tempered
chord
three or more musical tones sounded simultaneously
choreography
the composition and arrangement of dances especially for ballet
chorus
a body of singers who perform choral compositions
chronic
always present or encountered; especially :constantly vexing,
weakening, or troubling
chronicle
a usually continuous historical account of events arranged in order of
time without analysis or interpretation
chronological
of, relating to, or arranged in or according to the order of time
churlish
marked by a lack of civility or graciousness:SURLY
cinder
small piece of partly burnt coal, wood, etc that is no longer burning but
may still be hot
cineast
a film or movie enthusiast
cipher
a method of transforming a text in order to conceal its meaning
circuitous
not being forthright or direct in language or action
circumference
the perimeter of a circle
circumlocutory the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea
circumscribe
to construct or be constructed around (a geometrical figure) so as to
touch as many points as possible
circumspect
careful to consider all circumstances and possible
consequences:PRUDENT
circumvent
to manage to get around especially by ingenuity or stratagem
cistern
an artificial reservoir (as an underground tank) for storing liquids and
especially water (as rainwater)
citation
an official summons to appear (as before a court)
civility
COURTESY, POLITENESS
clairvoyant
unusually perceptive:DISCERNING
clamp
device for holding things tightly together, usu by means of a screw
clandestine
marked by, held in, or conducted with secrecy:SURREPTITIOUS
clarion
loud and clear
clarity
the quality or state of being clear:LUCIDITY
clasp
a device (as a hook) for holding objects or parts together
claustrophobia abnormal dread of being in closed or narrow spaces
cleft
a usually V-shaped indented formation:a hollow between ridges or
protuberances
clement
inclined to be merciful:LENIENT
cliche
a trite phrase or expression
clique
a narrow exclusive circle or group of persons; especially one held
together by common interests, views, or purposes
clog
something that shackles or impedes:ENCUMBRANCE
closed-minded not easily subdued, remedied, or removed
closet
a cabinet or recess for especially china, household utensils, or clothing
clot
a coagulated mass produced by clotting of blood
cloture
closing, device (in Parliament) to end a debate by voting
cloudburst
a sudden copious rainfall
clout
PULL, INFLUENCE
cloying
excessively sweet or sentimental
clumsy
lacking dexterity, nimbleness, or grace
coagulant
something that produces coagulation
coalesce
to unite into a whole:FUSE
coarse
not precise or detailed with respect to adjustment or discrimination
coax
to manipulate with great perseverance and usually with considerable
effort toward a desired state or activity
coda
a concluding musical section that is formally distinct from the main
structure
coerce
to bring about by force or threat
coeval
of the same or equal age, antiquity, or duration
cogent
appealing forcibly to the mind or reason:CONVINCING
cognizant
knowledgeable of something especially through personal experience
colander
a perforated utensil for washing or draining food
collapse
to fall or shrink together abruptly and completely
collude
CONSPIRE, PLOT
colonnade
a series of columns set at regular intervals and usually supporting the
base of a roof structure
colossal
of a bulk, extent, power, or effect approaching or suggesting the
stupendous or incredible
coma
a state of profound unconsciousness caused by disease, injury, or poison
combustible
capable of combustion
comely
having a pleasing appearance:not homely or plain
comity
friendly social atmosphere:social harmony
commencement
1. the ceremonies or the day for conferring degrees or diplomas 2. an
act, instance, or time of beginning
commend
to mention with approbation:PRAISE
commensurate
equal in measure or extent:COEXTENSIVE
commercial
an advertisement broadcast on radio or television
commingle
mingle together
commitment
an engagement to assume a financial obligation at a future date
committed
OBLIGATE, BIND
commodious
comfortably or conveniently spacious:ROOMY
commonsense
sound and prudent but often unsophisticated judgment
commotion
an agitated disturbance:TO-DO
compendium
a brief summary of a larger work or of a field of
knowledge:ABSTRACT
compensate
to offset an error, defect, or undesired effect
complacency
COMPLACENCE; especially :self-satisfaction accompanied by
unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies
complaisance
disposition to please or comply:AFFABILITY
compliant
ready or disposed to comply:SUBMISSIVE
compliment
expressing or containing a compliment
comply
to conform or adapt one's actions to another's wishes, to a rule, or to
necessity
composed
free from agitation:CALM; especially :SELF-POSSESSED
compress
to reduce in size or volume as if by squeezing
compromise
1. to come to agreement by mutual concession 2. to cause the
impairment of
compunction
anxiety arising from awareness of guilt
concatenate
to link together in a series or chain
concede
to grant as a right or privilege
concentrate
to bring or direct toward a common center or objective:FOCUS
concerted
mutually contrived or agreed on
concerto
a piece for one or more soloists and orchestra with three contrasting
movements
concession
an act of yielding
conciliate
APPEASE:to cause to subside:ALLAY especially :to buy off (an
aggressor) by concessions usually at the sacrifice of principles
concise
marked by brevity of expression or statement:free from all elaboration
and superfluous detail
conciseness
Expressing much in few words
concomitant
that which accompanies
concord
a state of agreement:HARMONY
concur
to act together to a common end or single effect
condemn
to declare to be reprehensible, wrong, or evil usually after weighing
evidence and without reservation
condescending showing or characterized by condescension:PATRONIZING
condign
deserved, appropriate
condole
to express sympathetic sorrow
condone
to pardon or overlook voluntarily; especially :to treat as if trivial,
harmless, or of no importance
conducive
tending to promote or assist
confess
to disclose one's faults; specifically :to unburden one's sins or the state
of one's conscience to God or to a priest
confidant
one to whom secrets are entrusted
confident
characterized by assurance; especially :SELF-RELIANT
confine
something that restrains
confluence
a coming or flowing together, meeting, or gathering at one point
conform
to be similar or identical; also :to be in agreement or harmony
confront
to face especially in challenge:OPPOSE
congeal
to make viscid or curdled:COAGULATE
congenial
OCIABLE, GENIAL congenial:bonhomie ???:?? 9????:
congruent
superposable so as to be coincident throughout
conjecture
inference from defective or presumptive evidence
connive
to cooperate secretly or have a secret understanding
connoisseur
EXPERT; especially :one who understands the details, technique, or
principles of an art and is competent to act as a critical judge
conquest
the act or process of conquering
conscientious
Thorough and assiduous
consensus
group solidarity in sentiment and belief
conservative
tending or disposed to maintain existing views, conditions, or
institutions:TRADITIONAL
conservatory
a school specializing in one of the fine arts
conserve
to keep in a safe or sound state
considerable
worth consideration:SIGNIFICANT
consign
to give, transfer, or deliver into the hands or control of another; also :to
commit especially to a final destination or fate
console
to alleviate the grief, sense of loss, or trouble of:COMFORT
consolidate
to join together into one whole:UNITE
consonance
harmony or agreement among components
conspicuous
obvious to the eye or mind
conspiracy
An agreement to perform together an illegal, wrongful, or subversive
act.
constellation
the configuration of stars.
constitute
to appoint to an office, function, or dignity
constrained
to appoint to an office, function, or dignity
constringe
to cause to contract; constrict.
consult
COUNCIL, CONFERENCE; specifically :a deliberation between
physicians on a case or its treatment
consummate
Complete in every detail; of the highest degree; extremely skilled and
accomplished.
contagious
communicable by contact:CATCHING
contaminate
to soil, stain, corrupt, or infect by contact or association
contemplate
to view or consider with continued attention:meditate on consider
contempt
the act of despising:the state of mind of one who despises:DISDAIN
content
feeling or manifesting satisfaction with one's possessions, status, or
situation
contentious
exhibiting an often perverse and wearisome tendency to quarrels and
disputes
contingent
likely but not certain to happen:POSSIBLE
contort
to twist into or as if into a strained shape or expression
contortion
contortingor being contorted (esp of the face or body)
contradictory
involving, causing, or constituting a contradiction
contravene
to oppose in argument:CONTRADICT
contrite
grieving and penitent for sin or shortcoming
contrived
ARTIFICIAL, LABORED
control
an individual or group used as a standard of comparison in a control
experiment
contumacious
stubbornly disobedient:REBELLIOUS
conundrum
a:a question or problem having only a conjectural answer b:an intricate
and difficult problem
convalesce
to recover health and strength gradually after sickness or weakness
convenience
something (as an appliance, device, or service) conducive to comfort or
ease
convention
usage or custom especially in social matters
conventional
lacking originality or individuality:TRITE
convergent
tending to move toward one point or to approach each
other:CONVERGING
conversant
having frequent or familiar association
convert
to bring over from one belief, view, or party to another
convex
curved or rounded like the exterior of a sphere
convey
to transfer or deliver to another
conviction
1. a strong persuasion or belief 2. the act or process of convicting of a
crime especially in a court of law
convivial
relating to, occupied with, or fond of feasting, drinking, and good
company
convoke
to call together to a meeting
convoluted
INVOLVED, INTRICATE
convulsion
an abnormal violent and involuntary contraction or series of contractions
of the muscles
coop
a cage or small enclosure (as for poultry)
copious
present in large quantity:taking place on a large scale
coquette
a woman who endeavors without sincere affection to gain the attention
and admiration of men
cord
a unit of wood cut for fuel equal to a stack 4 x 4 x 8 feet or 128 cubic
feet
cordon
a line of persons or objects around a person or place
cornucopia
an inexhaustible store:ABUNDANCE
coronation
the act or occasion of crowning; also :accession to the highest office
corporeal
having, consisting of, or relating to a physical material body:as a:not
spiritual b:not immaterial or intangible:SUBSTANTIAL
corral
a pen or enclosure for confining or capturing livestock
corroborate
to support with evidence or authority:make more certain
corrosive
tending or having the power to corrode
cosmopolitan
having worldwide rather than limited or provincial scope or bearing
cosset
to treat as a pet:PAMPER
coterie
an intimate and often exclusive group of persons with a unifying
common interest or purpose
countenance
to extend approval or toleration to:SANCTION
counterfeit
made in imitation of something else with intent to deceive:FORGED
counterpart
one of two corresponding copies of a legal instrument:DUPLICATE
court
to seek the affections of; especially :to seek to win a pledge of marriage
from
courtesy
a courteous act or expression
coven
an assembly or band of usually 13 witches
covetous
marked by inordinate desire for wealth or possessions or for another's
possessions
cow
to destroy the resolve or courage of
cowardice
lack of courage or resolution
cower
to shrink away or crouch especially for shelter from something that
menaces, domineers, or dismays
cozen
cheat; hoodwink; swindle
craft
skill in planning, making, or executing:DEXTERITY
cramp
restricted; narrowed
crass
Word list - D
dabble
to work or involve oneself superficially or intermittently especially in a
secondary activity or interest
daft
SILLY, FOOLISH
dally
a:to act playfully; especially :to play amorously b:to deal lightly:TOY
damp
MOISTURE,HUMIDITY, DAMPNESS
damper
a dulling or deadening influence
dandy
a man who gives exaggerated attention to personal appearance
dank
unpleasantly moist or wet
dapper
neat and trim in appearance
dappled
marked with small spots or patches contrasting with the background
daredevil
a recklessly bold person
dart
to move suddenly or rapidly fall
dastard
a person who acts treacherously or underhandedly
daunt
to lessen the courage of:COW, SUBDUE
dawdle
to move lackadaisically
deactivate
to make inactive or ineffective
deaden
to impair in vigor or sensation:BLUNT
deadpan
marked by an impassive matter-of-fact manner, style, or expression
dearth
an inadequate supply:LACK
debark
To unload, as from a ship or an airplane.
debase
to lower in status, esteem, quality, or character
debilitate
to impair the strength of:ENFEEBLE
debonair
LIGHTHEARTED, NONCHALANT
debris
the remains of something broken down or destroyed
debunk
to expose the sham or falseness of
debut
a first appearance
decadence
the process of becoming decadent:the quality or state of being decadent
decant
to pour out, transfer, or unload as if by pouring
decelerate
to reduce the speed of:slow down
decibel
a unit for expressing the relative intensity of sounds on a scale from zero
for the average least perceptible sound to about 130 for the average pain
level
decipher
a:to make out the meaning of despite indistinctness or obscurity b:to
interpret the meaning of
decode
to convert (as a coded message) into intelligible form
decorum
propriety and good taste in conduct or appearance
decrepit
wasted and weakened by or as if by the infirmities of old age
dedication
a devoting or setting aside for a particular purpose
default
a failure to pay financial debts
deference
respect and esteem due a superior or an elder; also:affected or
ingratiating regard for another's wishes
deficiency
an amount that is lacking or inadequate:SHORTAGE
defile
a narrow passage or gorge
definitive
serving to provide a final solution or to end a situation
defoliate
to deprive of leaves especially prematurely
deforest
the action or process of clearing of forests; also :the state of having been
cleared of
defraud
to deprive of something by deception or fraud
deft
characterized by facility and skill
defuse
to make less harmful, potent, or tense
defy
to challenge to do something considered impossible:DARE
dehydrate
to remove bound water or hydrogen and oxygen from (a chemical
compound) in the proportion in which they form water
deify
To worship or revere as a god
deject
to make gloomy
deleterious
harmful often in a subtle or unexpected way
deliberate
to think about or discuss issues and decisions carefully
delicacy
the quality or state of being dainty:FINENESS
delinquent
offending by neglect or violation of duty or of law
deliquesce
To dissolve gradually and become liquid by absorption of moisture from
the air.
delirium
a mental disturbance characterized by confusion, disordered speech, and
hallucinations
delude
to mislead the mind or judgment of:DECEIVE, TRICK
deluge
adj. an overflowing of the land by water b:a drenching rain
delve
to make a careful or detailed search for information
demagogue
a leader who makes use of popular prejudices and false claims and
promises in order to gain power
demanding
requiring much time, effort, or attention:EXACTING
demise
DIE, DECEASE
demography
the statistical study of human populations especially with reference to
size and density, distribution, and vital statistics
demolition
the act of demolishing; especially :destruction in war by means of
explosives
demoralize
a:to weaken the morale of:DISCOURAGE, DISPIRIT b:to upset or
destroy the normal functioning of c:to throw into disorder
demotic
Of or relating to the common people; popular
demur
to take exception:OBJECT
denigrate
to cast aspersions on:DEFAME
denouement
the final outcome of the main dramatic complication in a literary work
denounce
to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil
dent
a depression or hollow made by a blow or by pressure
denude
to strip of all covering or surface layers
denunciate
to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil
depart
to go away:LEAVE
depict
to represent by or as if by a picture
deplete
to lessen markedly in quantity, content, power, or value
deplore
to feel or express strong disapproval of; condemn.
deploy
to extend (a military unit) especially in width
deportation
the removal from a country of an alien whose presence is unlawful or
prejudicial
depose
to testify to under oath or by affidavit
deposit
to lay down or leave behind by a natural process
depravity
a corrupt act or practice
deprecate
BELITTLE, DISPARAGE
depreciate
to lower the price or estimated value of
depress
to press down
deprivation
the state of being deprived:PRIVATION; especially :removal from an
office, dignity, or benefice
deracinate
UPROOT
derelict
a destitute homeless social misfit:VAGRANT, BUM
deride
to subject to usually bitter or contemptuous ridicule
derivative
lacking originality:BANAL
derogatory
expressive of a low opinion:DISPARAGING
descendant
one deriving directly from a precursor or prototype
descent
an inclination downward:SLOPE
desecrate
to violate the sanctity of:PROFANE
desert
to withdraw from or leave usually without intent to return
desiccate
to preserve (a food) by drying:DEHYDRATE
designate
appointed to a job (but not yet having officially started it)
despair
to lose all hope or confidence
despicable
deserving to be despised:so worthless or obnoxious as to rouse moral
indignation
despise
to look down on with contempt or aversion
despondent
feeling or showing extreme discouragement, dejection, or depression
dessert
a usually sweet course or dish (as of pastry or ice cream) served at the
end of a meal
desultory
disappointing in progress or performance:SLUGGISH
detach
to separate especially from a larger mass and usually without violence or
damage
detain
to hold or keep in or as if in custody
deter
to turn aside, discourage, or prevent from acting
detestable
arousing or meriting intense dislike:ABOMINABLE
detour
to send by a circuitous route
detract
to diminish the importance, value, or effectiveness of something
detritus
a product of disintegration, destruction, or wearing away
deviation
noticeable or marked departure from accepted norms of behavior
devise
to form in the mind by new combinations or application of and ideas or
principles
devolve
deputize; pass to others
devoted
devote:to give over or direct (as time, money, or effort) to a cause,
enterprise, or activity
devout
devoted to religion or to religious duties or exercises
dew
moisture condensed upon the surfaces of cool bodies especially at night
dexterous
mentally adroit and skillful:CLEVER
diabolic
of, relating to, or characteristic of the devil:DEVILIS
diabolize
To represent as diabolical
diagnose
to recognize (as a disease) by signs and symptoms
diaphanous
characterized by such fineness of texture as to permit seeing through
diatribe
a bitter and abusive speech or writing
didactic
designed or intended to teach
die
any of various tools or devices for imparting a desired shape, form, or
finish to a material or for impressing an object or material
diehard
strongly or fanatically determined or devoted
diffident
hesitant in acting or speaking through lack of self-confidence
diffuse
being at once verbose and ill-organized
digit
A human finger or toe.
dignity
quality or state of being worthy, honored, or esteemed
digress
to turn aside especially from the main subject of attention or course of
argument
dilapidate
to bring into a condition of decay or partial ruin
dilate
to enlarge or expand in bulk or extent:DISTEND, WIDEN
dilatory
characterized by procrastination:TARDY
dilettante
a person having a superficial interest in an art or a branch of
knowledge:DABBLER
diligent
characterized by steady, earnest, and energetic effort:PAINSTAKING
dilute
to diminish the strength, flavor, or brilliance of by admixture
dimension
measurement of any sort
diminish
to make or become smaller ,less, or less important
din
a loud continued noise; especially :a welter of discordant sounds
dingus
an ornamental attachment or decoration:DOODAD
dingy
SHABBY, SQUALID
diocesan
a bishop having jurisdiction over a diocese
diplomatic
of or engaged in diplomacy; tactful or suave
dire
DISMAL, OPPRESSIVE
dirge
a song or hymn of grief or lamentation; especially :one intended to
accompany funeral or memorial rites
disabuse
to free from error, fallacy, or misconception
disaffected
discontented and resentful especially against authority REBELLIOUS
disagreeable
causing discomfort:UNPLEASANT, OFFENSIVE
disarm
to deprive of means, reason, or disposition to be hostile
disarray
(n.) (state of) disorder
disavow
to deny responsibility for:REPUDIATE
discard
to get rid of especially as useless or unpleasant
discernible
distinguishable; perceivable
discerning
showing insight and understanding:DISCRIMINATING
discharge
to dismiss from employment
disciple
one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another
discipline
a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity
disclaim
to renounce a legal claim to
discography
a descriptive list of phonograph records by category, composer,
performer, or date of release
discombobulate to confuse or disconcert
discomfit
to put into a state of perplexity and embarrassment:DISCONCERT
discommode
to cause inconvenience to:TROUBLE
discompose
to destroy the composure of
disconcert
to throw into confusion
discord
lack of agreement or harmony (as between persons, things, or ideas)
discourse
formal and orderly and usually extended expression of thought on a
subject
discredit
to deprive of good repute:DISGRACE
discrepancy
Divergence or disagreement, as between facts or claims; difference.
discrete
(adj.) separate; individually distinct; composed of distinct parts
discretion
the quality of being discreet:CIRCUMSPECTION; especially :cautious
reserve in speech frivolous
discretionary
left to discretion:exercised at one's own discretion
discriminate
to mark or perceive the distinguishing or peculiar features of
discursive
moving from topic to topic without order:RAMBLING
disdain
a feeling of contempt for what is beneath one:SCORN
disembody
To free (the soul or spirit) from the body
disengage
to release from something that engages or involves
disentangle
(v.) to free from confusion
disgorge
to discharge by the throat and mouth:VOMIT
disgruntle
to make ill-humored or discontented , usually used as a participial
adjective
disguise
to furnish with a false appearance or an assumed identity
disgust
marked aversion aroused by something highly
distasteful:REPUGNANCE
dishevel
to throw into disorder or disarray
disinclination
a preference for avoiding something:slight aversion
disinfect
to free from infection especially by destroying harmful microorganisms
disinterested
free from selfish motive or interest:UNBIASED
disjunctive
marked by breaks or disunity
dismantle
to take to pieces; also :to destroy the integrity or functioning of
disparage
to depreciate by indirect means (as invidious comparison):speak
slightingly about
disparate
containing or made up of fundamentally different and often incongruous
elements
dispassionate
not influenced by strong feeling; especially :not affected by personal or
emotional involvement
dispatch
promptness and efficiency in performance or transmission
disposal
systematic destruction; especially :destruction or transformation of
garbage
disquiet
to take away the peace or tranquillity of:DISTURB, ALARM
disregard
pay no attention to treat (sth) as of no importance; ignore
disrupt
to throw into disorder
dissect
to analyze and interpret minutely
dissemble
to put on a false appearance:conceal facts, intentions, or feelings under
some pretense
disseminate
to spread abroad as though sowing seed
dissension
DISAGREEMENT; especially:partisan and contentious quarreling
dissent
to withhold assent
dissertation
an extended usually written treatment of a subject; specifically :one
submitted for a doctorate
dissipate
dispel; squander
dissociate
to separate from association or union with another
dissolute
lacking restraint; especially :marked by indulgence in things
dissolve
to cause to pass into solution to separate into component
parts:DISINTEGRATE
dissonance
lack of agreement; especially :inconsistency between the beliefs one
holds or between one's actions and one's beliefs
dissuade
to advise (a person) against something
distention
the act of distending or the state of being distended especially unduly or
abnormally
distillation
the process of purifying a liquid by successive evaporation and
condensation
distinction
the quality or state of being distinguishable
distinguished
marked by eminence, distinction, or excellence
distort
to twist out of the true meaning or proportion
distract
to draw or direct (as one's attention) to a different object or in different
directions at the same time
distraught
agitated with doubt or mental conflict
distress
great pain/cause discomfort
district
ditch
a long narrow excavation dug in the earth
ditty
an especially simple and unaffected song
diurnal
of, relating to, or occurring in the daytime
diver
part of a country or town having a particular quality
diverge
to move or extend in different directions from a common point:draw
apart
divert
to turn from one course or use to another:DEFLECT
divestiture
the act of divesting
divulge
to make known (as a confidence or secret)
doctrine
a principle or position or the body of principles in a branch of
knowledge or system of belief:DOGMA
dodder
to progress feebly and unsteadily
doff
to remove (an article of wear) from the body
dogged
marked by stubborn determination
doggerel
loosely styled and irregular in measure especially for burlesque or comic
effect; also:marked by triviality or inferiority
doggo
in hiding
dogma
something held as an established opinion;especially:a definite
authoritative tenet
doldrums
state or period of inactivity, stagnation, or slump
dolorous
causing, marked by, or expressing misery or grief
dolt
a stupid person
domicile
a dwelling place:place of residence:HOME
domination
supremacy or preeminence over another
don
to put on (an article of clothing)
donor
one that gives, donates, or presents something
doodle
an aimless or casual scribble, design, or sketch
dour
STERN, HARSH
downpour
a pouring or streaming downward; especially:a heavy rain
doyen
a:the senior member of a body or group b:a person considered to be
knowledgeable or uniquely skilled as a result of long experience in some
field of endeavor
doze
to fall into a light sleep
draconian
CRUEL; also:SEVERE
drain
to exhaust physically or emotionally
drawl
to utter in a slow lengthened tone
dreary
having nothing likely to provide cheer, comfort, or interest:GLOOMY,
DISMAL
drench
to wet thoroughly (as by soaking or immersing in liquid)
drivel
to utter in an infantile or imbecilic way
drizzle
a fine misty rain
droll
having a humorous, whimsical, or odd quality
drone
to speak in a monotonous tone:
droplet
a tiny drop (as of a liquid)
drudgery
dull, irksome, and fatiguing work:uninspiring or menial labor
dubious
questionable or suspect as to true nature or quality
dulcet
pleasing to the ear
dull
lacking brilliance or luster
dullard
a stupid or unimaginative person
dune
a hill or ridge of sand piled up by the wind
dupe
one that is easily deceived or cheated:FOOL
dwelling
a shelter (as a house) in which people live
dyspeptic
INDIGESTION
Word list - E
eaglet
a young eagle
earnest
characterized by or proceeding from an intense and serious state of mind
earplug
device of pliable material for insertion into the outer opening of the ear (as
to keep out water or deaden sound)
earshot
the range within which the unaided voice may be heard
earsplitting
distressingly loud or shrill
easel
An upright frame for supporting something, such as an artist's canvas
eavesdrop
to listen secretly to the private conversation of others
ebb
recede; lessen
ebullience
the quality of lively or enthusiastic expression of thoughts or
feelings:EXUBERANCE
eccentric
deviating from conventional or accepted usage or conduct especially in
odd or whimsical ways
echelon
an arrangement of a body of troops with its units each somewhat to the left
or right of the one in the rear like a series of steps
eclat
brilliant or conspicuous success
eclectic
selecting what appears to be best in various doctrines, methods, or styles
eclipse
a falling into obscurity or decline; also :the state of being eclipsed
ecstasy
a state of overwhelming emotion; especially :rapturous delight
ecstatic
feeling great rapture or delight
ecumenical
worldwide or general in extent, influence, or application
eddy
circular or spiral movement (e.g. of wind)
edifice
BUILDING; especially :a large or massive structure
efface
to make (oneself) modestly or shyly inconspicuous
effervesce
to show liveliness or exhilaration
effete
having lost character, vitality, or strength
effluvia
a by-product especially in the form of waste
effulgent
radiant splendor:BRILLIANCE
effusive
characterized or formed by a nonexplosive outpouring of lava
egalitarian
a belief in human equality especially with respect to social, political, and
economic rights and privileges
egocentric
concerned with the individual rather than society
elaborate
marked by complexity, fullness of detail, or ornateness
elastic
capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former
shape:FLEXIBLE
elated
marked by high spirits:EXULTANT
eleemosynary of, relating to, or supported by charity
elegant
of a high grade or quality:SPLENDID
elegy
a song or poem expressing sorrow or lamentation especially for one who
is dead
elephantine
having enormous size or strength:MASSIVE
elevate
to raise in rank or status:EXALT
elf
a small lively creature; also :a usually lively mischievous or malicious
person
elicit
to draw forth or bring out
elitism
leadership or rule by an elite
ellipse
a closed plane curve resulting from the intersection of a circular cone and
a plane cutting completely through it
ellipsis
the omission of one or more words that are obviously understood but that
must be supplied to make a construction grammatically complete
elliptical
of or relating to deliberate obscurity (as of literary or conversational style)
elongate
to extend the length of
elucidate
to give a clarifying explanation
emaciate
to cause to lose f unaffectlesh so as to become very thin
emanate
to come out from a source
emancipate
to free from restraint, control, or the power of another; especially :to free
from bondage
embargo
a legal prohibition on commerce
embark
to make a start
embarrass
to place in doubt, perplexity, or difficulties
embed
to enclose closely in or as if in a matrix
embezzle
to appropriate (as property entrusted to one's care) fraudulently to one's
own use
embolden
to instill with boldness or courage
embrace
close encircling with the arms and pressure to the bosom especially as a
sign of affection:HUG
emigrate
to leave one's place of residence or country to live elsewhere
eminence
one that is eminent, prominent, or lofty:as a person of high rank or
attainments
emphasis
special consideration of or stress or insistence on something
emulate
strive to equal or excel
enact
to establish by legal and authoritative act; specifically:to make (as a bill)
into law
enamel
a hard calcareous substance that forms a thin layer capping the teeth
enclosure
something that encloses
encomium
glowing and warmly enthusiastic praise;
encompass
1. to form a circle about:ENCLOSE obsolete :to go completely around 2.
to form a circle about:ENCLOSE
encounter
to come upon face-to-face
encumber
to impede or hamper the function or activity of:HINDER
a work that contains information on all branches of knowledge or treats
encyclopedia comprehensively a particular branch of knowledge usually in articles
arranged alphabetically often by subject
endorse
to approve openly especially:to express support or approval of publicly
and definitely
enduring
LASTING, DURABLE
enervate
to lessen the vitality or strength of
enfeeble
to make feeble:deprive of strength
enfranchise
to endow with a franchise:as to admit to the privileges of a citizen and
especially to the right of suffrage
engender
to cause to exist or to develop:PRODUCE
engross
to take or engage the whole attention of:occupy completely
enigmatic
of, relating to, or resembling an enigma:MYSTERIOUS
enlighten
to furnish knowledge to:INSTRUCT
enmity
positive, active, and typically mutual hatred or ill will
ennoble
to make noble:ELEVATE
ennui
a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction:BOREDOM
enrapture
to fill with delight
ensconce
settle comfortably
enslave
to reduce to or as if to slavery:SUBJUGATE
ensue
to take place afterward or as a result
entangle
to wrap or twist together:INTERWEAVE
enthusiasm
strong excitement of feeling:ARDOR
entice
to attract artfully or adroitly or by arousing hope or desire:TEMPT
entrance
to carry away with delight, wonder, or rapture
entrap
to catch in or as if in a trap
entreaty
an act of entreating:PLEA
entry
a descriptive record (as in a card catalog or an index)
enumerate
to specify one after another:LIST
enunciate
a:to make a definite or systematic statement of b:ANNOUNCE,
PROCLAIM
envision
to picture to oneself
ephemeral
lasting a very short time
epic
extending beyond the usual or ordinary especially in size or scope
epicure
one with sensitive and discriminating tastes especially in food or wine
epigram
a concise poem dealing pointedly and often satirically with a single
thought or event and often ending with an ingenious turn of thought
epilogue
a concluding section that rounds out the design of a literary work; the final
scene of a play that comments on or summarizes the main action; the
concluding section of a musical composition:CODA
episode
An incident or story in a literary work, separable from yet growing out of
it.
epistemology
the study or a theory of the nature and grounds of knowledge especially
with reference to its limits and validity
epitomize
to serve as the typical or ideal example of
equable
marked by lack of noticeable, unpleasant, or extreme variation or
inequality
equipoise
a state of equilibrium
equity
justice according to natural law or right; specifically :freedom from bias or
favoritism
equivocal
subject to two or more interpretations and usually used to mislead or
confuse
erect
1. characterized by firm or rigid straightness in bodily posture 2. SET UP,
ESTABLISH
erode
to diminish or destroy by degrees
errant
traveling or given to traveling
erratic
having no fixed course:WANDERING
erudite
possessing or displaying erudition:LEARNED
escalate
to increase in extent, volume, number, amount, intensity, or scope
eschew
to avoid habitually especially on moral or practical grounds:SHUN
esoteric
designed for or understood by the specially initiated alone
espouse
to take up and support as a cause:become attached to
esteem
to set a high value on:regard highly and prize accordingly
estimable
worthy of esteem
estrange
to arouse especially mutual enmity or indifference in where there had
formerly been love, affection, or friendliness:ALIENATE
etch
a chemical agent used in etching
eternal
a:continued without intermission:PERPETUAL b:seemingly endless
ethereal
a:lacking material substance:IMMATERIAL, INTANGIBLE b:marked by
unusual delicacy or refinement
ethics
the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and
obligation
eulogize
to speak or write in high praise of:EXTOL
euphemism
the substitution of an agreeable or inoffensive expression for one that may
offend or suggest something unpleasant
euphonious
pleasing to the ear
euphoria
a feeling of well-being or elation
evacuate
a:to remove especially from a military zone or dangerous area b:to
withdraw from military occupation of c:VACATE
evade
to avoid answering directly:turn aside
evanescent
tending to vanish like vapor
evasive
tending or intended to evade:EQUIVOCAL
everlasting
lasting or enduring through all time:ETERNAL
evict
to force out:EXPEL
evoke
to call forth or up
ewe
the female of the sheep especially when mature; also :the female of
various related animals
exacerbate
to make more violent, bitter, or severe
exacting
tryingly or unremittingly severe in making demands
exaggerate
to enlarge or increase especially beyond the normal:OVEREMPHASIZE
exalt
to elevate by praise or in estimation:GLORIFY
exasperate
a:to excite the anger of:ENRAGE b:to cause irritation or annoyance to
excavate
find by digging in the ground ; remove the inner part or the core of
exceptional
deviating from the norm
excerpt
to select (a passage) for quoting:EXTRACT
exclamation
a sharp or sudden utterance
excoriate
to censure scathingly
excrete
to separate and eliminate or discharge (waste) from the blood or tissues or
from the active protoplasm
excruciate
to subject to intense mental distress
exculpate
to clear from alleged fault or guilt
exculpatory
Acting or tending to exculpate
excursive
constituting a digression:characterized by digression
execrate
to declare to be evil or detestable:DENOUNCE
execute
to carry out fully:put completely into effect
exemplary
serving as a pattern
exempt
free or released from some liability or requirement to which others are
subjectexempt:liability:pardon:penalty
exert
to bring to bear especially with sustained effort or lasting effect
exhaust
to consume entirely:USE UP
exhilarate
to make cheerful
exhortation
language intended to incite and encourage
exodus
a mass departure:EMIGRATION
exonerate
to relieve of a responsibility, obligation, or hardship
exorbitant
exceeding in intensity, quality, amount, or size the customary or
appropriate limits
exotic
introduced from another country:not native to the place where found
expansive
characterized by high spirits, generosity, or readiness to talk:OPEN
expedite
to accelerate the process or progress of:speed up
expedition
efficient promptness:SPEED
expiation
the act of making atonement
explicit
fully revealed or expressed without vagueness, implication, or
ambiguity:leaving no question as to meaning or intent
exponent
one that expounds or interprets
expurgate
to cleanse of something morally harmful, offensive, or erroneous;
especially :to expunge objectionable parts from before publication or
presentation
exquisite
marked by flawless craftsmanship or by beautiful, ingenious, delicate, or
elaborate execution
extant
currently or actually existing
extemporize
to do something extemporaneously:IMPROVISE; especially :to speak
extemporaneously
extenuate
to lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent of by making partial
excuses:MITIGATE
exterminate
to get rid of completely usually by killing off
extinct
no longer existing
extinguish
to cause to cease burning:QUENCH
extol
to praise highly:GLORIFY
extort
to obtain from a person by force, intimidation, or undue or illegal
power:WRING
extraneous
a:not forming an essential or vital part b:having no relevance
extravagant
a:spending much more than necessary b:PROFUSE, LAVISH
extricate
to free or remove from an entanglement or difficulty
extrinsic
not forming an essential or inherent part of a thing; extraneous.
extrovert
a gregarious and unreserved person
exuberant
joyously unrestrained and enthusiastic
exude
to undergo diffusion
exultant
filled with or expressing great joy or triumph:JUBILANT
Word list - F
fabricate
CONSTRUCT, MANUFACTURE; specifically :to construct from diverse
and usually standardized parts
facetious
joking or jesting often inappropriately:WAGGISH
facilitate
to make easier:help bring about
faction
a party or group (as within a government) that is often contentious or selfseeking:CLIQUE
fade
to change gradually in loudness, strength, or visibility
fail-safe
incorporating some feature for automatically counteracting the effect of an
anticipated possible source of failure
faint
lacking strength or vigor:performed, offered, or accomplished weakly or
languidly
fainthearted lacking courage or resolution:TIMID
fallacy
a:a false or mistaken idea b:erroneous character:ERRONEOUSNESS
falsehood
absence of truth or accuracy
falter
a:to hesitate in purpose or action:WAVER b:to lose drive or effectiveness
fantasy
imaginative fiction featuring especially strange settings and grotesque
characters
farce
ridiculous or empty show
fascinate
to be irresistibly attractive
fast
1. in a firm or fixed manner 2. the act to eat sparingly or abstain from some
foods
fasten
to attach especially by pinning, tying, or nailing
fastidious
showing or demanding excessive delicacy or care
fathom
to penetrate and come to understand
fatigue
weariness or exhaustion from labor, exertion, or stress
fatuous
complacently or inanely foolish:SILLY
fawn
to court favor by a cringing or flattering manner
faze
to disturb the composure of:DISCONCERT, DAUNT
feckless
WEAK, INEFFECTIVE
fecund
fruitful in offspring or vegetation:PROLIFIC
feeble
markedly lacking in strength
fender
a device in front of locomotives and streetcars to lessen injury to animals or
pedestrians in case of collision
feral
not domesticated or cultivated:WILD
fertilize
to make fertile
fervid
marked by often extreme fervor
fervor
intensity of feeling or expression
fetid
having a heavy offensive smell
fetter
to restrain from motion, action, or progress
fiasco
a complete failure
fictitious
of, relating to, or characteristic of fiction:IMAGINARY
fidelity
the quality or state of being faithful
figurative
representing by a figure or resemblance:EMBLEMATIC
figurine
a small carved or molded figure
filibuster
the use of extreme dilatory tactics in an attempt to delay or prevent action
especially in a legislative assembly
filigree
ornamental openwork of delicate or intricate design
filly
a young female horse usually of less than four years
filter
a porous article or mass (as of paper or sand) through which a gas or liquid
is passed to separate out matter in suspension
finch
any of numerous songbirds (especially families Fringillidae, Estrildidae, and
Emberizidae) having a short stout usually conical bill adapted for crushing
seeds
finesse
skillful handling of a situation:adroit maneuvering
finicky
extremely or excessively nice, exacting, or meticulous in taste or standards
flaccid
not firm or stiff; also :lacking normal or youthful firmness
flagging
LANGUID, WEAK
flamboyant marked by or given to strikingly elaborate or colorful display or behavior
flange
a projecting edge of cloth used for decoration on clothing
flannel
outer garments of flannel; especially:men's trousers
flatter
to praise excessively especially from motives of self-interest
flaw
a defect in physical structure or form
flax
any of a genus (Linum of the family Linaceae, the flax family) of herbs;
especially:a slender erect annual (L. usitatissimum) with blue flowers
commonly cultivated for its bast fiber and seed
fledge
to acquire the feathers necessary for flight or independent activity
flexible
capable of being flexed:PLIANT
flinch
to withdraw or shrink from or as if from pain:WINCE; also :to tense the
muscles involuntarily in anticipation of discomfort
flint
a massive hard quartz that produces a spark when struck by steel
flippancy
unbecoming levity or pertness especially in respect to grave or sacred
matters
flirt
to behave amorously without serious intent
flit
to move about rapidly and nimbly.
flock
a group of birds or mammals assembled or herded togetherto gather or move
in a flock
florid
flowery; ruddy
flounder
to proceed or act clumsily or ineffectually
flourish
to grow luxuriantly:THRIVE
flout
to treat with contemptuous disregard:SCORN
fluctuate
to shift back and forth uncertainly
fluent
a:ready or facile in speechb:effortlessly smooth and rapid:POLISHED
flush
to pour liquid over or through; especially:to cleanse or wash out with or as if
with a rush of liquid
fluster
to put into a state of agitated confusion:UPSET
fluvial
of, relating to, or living in a stream or river
foible
a minor flaw or shortcoming in character or behavior:WEAKNESS
foil
a thin piece of material (as metal) put under an inferior or paste stone to add
color or brilliance
foliage
the aggregate of leaves of one or more plants
folly
a foolish act or idea
foment
to promote the growth or development of:ROUSE, INCITE
fondness
tender affection
foolhardy
foolishly adventurous and bold:RASH
footloose
having no ties:free to move about
forbears
To refrain from; resist
ford
A shallow place in a body of water, such as a river, where one can cross by
walking or riding on an animal or in a vehicle
forebear
person from whom one is descended; ancestor ;
forestry
the management of growing timber
foreword
prefatory comments (as for a book) especially when written by someone
other than the author
forgery
an act of forging; especially:the crime of falsely and fraudulently making or
altering a document (as a check)
forgo
do without ; lose or lose the right to by some error, offense, or crime
formidable causing fear, dread, or apprehension
forthright
free from ambiguity or evasiveness:going straight to the point
fortify
to make strong:as to give physical strength, courage, or endurance to
foster
to promote the growth or development of:ENCOURAGE
founder
1. to become submerged:SINK 2. one that founds or establishes
fracture
RUPTURE, TEAR
fragile
a:easily broken or destroyedb:constitutionally delicate:lacking in physical
vigor
fraudulent
characterized by, based on, or done by fraud:DECEITFUL
freelancer
a person who pursues a profession without a long-term commitment to any
one employer
freewheel
to move, live, or play freely or irresponsibly
frenzy
a violent mental or emotional agitation
frequent
to associate with, be in, or resort to often or habitually
fresco
the art of painting on freshly spread moist lime plaster with water-based
pigments
fret
an agitation of mind:IRRITATION
friable
easily crumbled or pulverized
friction
the rubbing of one body against another
frieze
a heavy durable coarse wool and shoddy fabric with a rough surface
frigid
intensely cold; cold in manner
frivolous
intensely cold
frothy
gaily frivolous or light in content or treatment:INSUBSTANTIAL
frowsy
[ frowzy: ] untidy or unkempt in appearance; shabby
frowzy
having a slovenly or uncared-for appearance
frugal
characterized by or reflecting economy in the use of resources
frustrate
a:to balk or defeat in an endeavorb:to induce feelings of discouragement in
full-bodied
imparting to the palate the general impression of substantial weight and rich
texture
fulminate
to send forth censures or invectives
fungi
any of a major group (Fungi) of saprophytic and parasitic spore-producing
organisms usually classified as plants that lack chlorophyll and include
molds, rusts, mildews, smuts, mushrooms, and yeasts
furnace
an enclosed structure in which heat is produced
furor
A general commotion; public disorder or uproar.
furtive
done by stealth:SURREPTITIOUS
fury
intense, disordered, and often destructive rage
fussy
Calling for or requiring great attention to sometimes trivial details
fusty
saturated with dust and stale odors:MUSTY
futility
the quality or state of being futile:USELESSNESS
Word list - G
gab
to talk in a rapid or thoughtless manner:CHATTER
gadfly
a person who stimulates or annoys especially by persistent criticism
gaffe
a social or diplomatic blunder
gainsay
to declare to be untrue or invalid
gait
a manner of walking or moving on foot
galaxy
an assemblage of brilliant or notable persons or things
gall
to fret and wear away by friction:CHAFE
gallant
Possessing a brave or chivalrous spirit.
galvanize
to stimulate or excite as if by an electric shock
gamble
to stake something on a contingency:take a chance
gangling
loosely and awkwardly built:LANKY
garble
to so alter or distort as to create a wrong impression or change the
meaning
gargantuan
of immense size, volume, or capacity; gigantic
garish
clothed in vivid colors
garment
an article of clothing
garner
a:GRANARY b:a grain bin
garrulous
given to prosy, rambling, or tedious loquacity:pointlessly or annoyingly
talkative
gash
a deep long cut in flesh
gasification
conversion into gas; especially:conversion of coal into natural gas
gauche
lacking social experience or grace; also:not tactful:CRUDE
gaudy
ostentatiously or tastelessly ornamented
gauge
a measurement (as of linear dimension) according to some standard or
system
gear
a toothed wheel
genealogy
an account of the descent of a person, family, or group from an ancestor or
from older forms
generality
the quality or state of being general
genial
marked by or diffusing sympathy or friendliness
genteel
free from vulgarity or rudeness:POLITE
genuine
ACTUAL, TRUE
germane
being at once relevant and appropriate:FITTING
gesture
a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an
idea, sentiment, or attitude
ghastly
intensely unpleasant, disagreeable, or objectionable
gibe
to deride or tease with taunting words
giddy
lightheartedly silly:FRIVOLOUS
ginger
a thickened pungent aromatic rhizome that is used as a spice and
sometimes medicinally
glacier
a large body of ice moving slowly down a slope or valley or spreading
outward on a land surface
glade
an open space surrounded by woods
glance
a quick or cursory look
glaze
to give a smooth glossy surface to
glib
marked by ease and fluency in speaking or writing often to the point of
being insincere or deceitful
glimmer
a:to shine faintly or unsteadily b:to give off a subdued unsteady reflection
glisten
to give off a sparkling or lustrous reflection of or as if of a moist or
polished surface
glitch
a usually minor malfunction
gloat
express evil satisfaction; view malevolently
gloomy
low in spirits:MELANCHOLY
glorify
to make glorious by bestowing honor, praise, or admiration
gloss
a brief explanation (as in the margin or between the lines of a text) of a
difficult or obscure word or expression
glossary
a collection of textual glosses or of specialized terms with their meanings
glossy
having a surface luster or brightness
glut
an excessive quantity:OVERSUPPLY
glutinous
having the quality of glue:GUMMY
glutton
one given habitually to greedy and voracious eating and drinking
goad
something that urges or stimulates into action:SPUR
gobble
to swallow or eat greedily
goggle
to stare with wide or protuberant eyes
goldbrick
to shirk duty or responsibility
gorge
to eat greedily or to repletion
gossamer
something light, delicate, or insubstantial
gourmet
a connoisseur of food and drink; broadly :CONNOISSEUR
grandeur
the quality or state of being grand:MAGNIFICENCE
grandiloquent
be of a lofty, extravagantly colorful, pompous, or bombastic style,
manner, or quality especially in language
grandiose
characterized by affectation of grandeur or splendor or by absurd
exaggeration
grandstand
to play or act so as to impress onlookers
grant
to bestow or transfer formally specifically :to give the possession or title
of by a deed
gratify
to be a source of or give pleasure or satisfaction to
grating
noisily,rasping,harsh
gratis
free
gratuitous
not involving a return benefit, compensation, or consideration
grave
having a serious and dignified quality or demeanor
green
a:deficient in training, knowledge, or experience b:deficient in
sophistication and savoir faire:NAIVE c:not fully qualified for or
experienced in a particular function
gregarious
tending to associate with others of one's kind:SOCIAL
grievous
causing or characterized by severe pain, suffering, or sorrow
grimace
a facial expression usually of disgust or disapproval
grin
to draw back the lips so as to show the teeth especially in amusement or
laughter; broadly :SMILE
gripe
to complain with grumbling
grisly
inspiring horror or intense fear
groove
a long narrow channel or depression
grotesque
FANCIFUL, BIZARRE
grotto
A small cave or cavern
grove
a planting of fruit or nut trees
grovel
to lie or creep with the body prostrate in token of subservience or
abasement
grumble
to mutter in discontent
guarantee
to engage for the existence, permanence, or nature of:undertake to do or
secure
guffaw
a loud or boisterous burst of laughter
guile
deceitful cunning:DUPLICITY
guilt
feelings of culpability especially for imagined offenses or from a sense of
inadequacy:SELF-REPROACH
gullible
easily duped or cheated
gully
a trench which was orig. worn in the earth by running water and through
which water often runs after rains
gum
any of numerous colloidal polysaccharide substances of plant origin that
are gelatinous when moist but harden on drying and are salts of complex
organic acids
gush
a sudden outpouring
gust
a sudden brief rush of wind
guzzle
to drink especially liquor greedily, continually, or habitually
Word list - H
habitable
capable of being lived in:suitable for habitation
hack
a writer who aims solely for commercial success
hackneyed
lacking in freshness or originality
hairbreadth
Extremely close
halcyon
CALM, PEACEFUL
hale
free from defect, disease, or infirmity:SOUND; also :retaining exceptional
health and vigor
half-baked
a:lacking adequate planning or forethought b:lacking in judgment,
intelligence, or common sense
hallow
to make holy or set apart for holy use
hallucination
perception of objects with no reality usually arising from disorder of the
nervous system or in response to drugs (as LSD)
halting
marked by a lack of sureness or effectiveness
ham-handed lacking dexterity or grace:HEAVY-HANDED
hamper
to restrict the movement of by bonds or obstacles:IMPEDE
hamstring
to make ineffective or powerless:CRIPPLE
handle
to act, behave, or feel in a certain way when handled or directed
hangdog
SAD, DEJECTED
hankering
to have a strong or persistent desire:YEARN
haphazard
marked by lack of plan, order, or direction
hapless
having no luck:UNFORTUNATE
harangue
to address in a ranting way
harass
to annoy persistently
harbinger
one that presages or foreshadows what is to come
harbor
to give shelter or refuge to
hard-bitten
seasoned or steeled by difficult experience:TOUGH
hardheaded
STUBBORN, WILLFUL
harebrained
FOOLISH
harmonious
marked by accord in sentiment or action
harness
UTILIZE
harp
a plucked stringed instrument consisting of a resonator, an arched or
angled neck that may be supported by a post, and strings of graded length
that are perpendicular to the soundboard
harrow
break up ground after plowing; torture
harry
to make a pillaging or destructive raid on:ASSAULT
harsh
a:causing a disagreeable or painful sensory reaction:IRRITATING
b:physically discomforting:PAINFUL
hasten
to move or act quickly
hasty
done or made in a hurry
haunt
to visit often:FREQUENT
hauteur
ARROGANCE, HAUGHTINESS
haven
harbour, safety place
havoc
great confusion and disorder
headlong
Impetuous; rash.
hearken
to give respectful attention
heart
to give heart to:CHEER:HEARTEN
hearten
to give heart to
heartrending causing intense sorrow or distress
hedge
a means of protection or defense (as against financial loss)
hedonic
of, relating to, or characterized by pleasure
heinous
hatefully or shockingly evil:ABOMINABLE
heirloom
something of special value handed on from one generation to another
helmet
any of various protective head coverings usually made of a hard material to
resist impact
hem
a border of a cloth article doubled back and stitched down
herald
to give notice of:ANNOUNCE
herbicide
an agent used to destroy or inhibit plant growth
hereditary
characteristic of or fostered by one's predecessors
heresy
an opinion or doctrine contrary to church dogma
heretical
of, relating to, or characterized by departure from accepted beliefs or
standards:UNORTHODOX
hermit
one that retires from society and lives in solitude especially for religious
reasons:RECLUSE
herpetologist one that a branch of zoology dealing with reptiles and amphibians
hesitance
the quality or state of being hesitant:as a:INDECISION b:RELUCTANCE
heterodox
Not in agreement with accepted beliefs, especially in church doctrine or
dogma
hidebound
having an inflexible or ultraconservative character
hideous
offensive to the senses and especially to sight:exceedingly ugly
hie
to go quickly:HASTEN
hierarchy
the classification of a group of people according to ability or to economic,
social, or professional standing
hieroglyph
a character used in a system of hieroglyphic writing
hike
to rise up; especially :to work upward out of place
hilarity
high spirits that may be carried to the point of boisterous conviviality or
merriment
hint
a slight indication of the existence, approach, or nature of
something:CLUE
histrionic
of or relating to actors, acting, or the theater
hive
a place swarming with activity
hoard
to keep (as one's thoughts) to oneself
hoary
extremely old:ANCIENT
hoax
an act intended to deceive or trick
hodgepodge a heterogeneous mixture:JUMBLE
homage
expression of high regard:RESPECT
homely
Not attractive or good-looking
homily
a lecture or discourse on or of a moral theme
homogenize to blend (diverse elements) into a uniform mixture
hone
to make more acute, intense, or effective:WHET
honorarium
a payment for a service (as making a speech) on which custom or propriety
forbids a
horn
a wind instrument used in a jazz band; especially :TRUMPET
hortative
giving exhortation:ADVISORY
horticulture
the science and art of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers, or ornamental
plants
hospitable
liking to give hospitality
hovel
a small, wretched, and often dirty house:HUT
hub
the central part of a circular object (as a wheel or propeller)
hubris
exaggerated pride or self-confidencehubristic
humanitarian a person promoting human welfare and social reform:PHILANTHROPIST
humble
ranking low in a hierarchy or scale:INSIGNIFICANT, UNPRETENTIOUS
humor
to soothe or content by indulgence
hurdle
to leap over especially while running (as in a sporting competition
hurricane
a tropical cyclone with winds of 74 miles (118 kilometers) per hour or
greater that occurs especially in the western Atlantic, that is usually
accompanied by rain, thunder, and lightning, and that sometimes moves
into temperate latitudes
husbandry
the control or judicious use of resources:CONSERVATION
husk
a usually dry or membranous outer covering (as a pod or hull or one
composed of bracts) of various seeds and fruits; also :one of the constituent
parts
husky
hoarse with or as if with emotion
hybrid
something heterogeneous in origin or composition:COMPOSITE
hymn
a song of praise or joy
hyperbole
extravagant exaggeration
hypercritical meticulously or excessively critical??:hypocritical9adj.???:
hypnotic
tending to produce sleep:SOPORIFIC
hypocritical
characterized by hypocrisy; also :being a hypocrite
Word list - I
ichthyologist
one that study a branch of zoology that deals with fishes
idiosyncratic
a peculiarity of constitution or temperament:an
individualizingcharacteristic or quality
idolatrize
admires intensely and often blindly
ignite
to set afire; also :KINDLE
ignominy
deep personal humiliation and disgrace
ignorant
destitute of knowledge or education also lacking knowledge or
comprehension of the thing specified
ignore
to reject (a bill of indictment) as ungrounded
illegible
Undecipherable.
illiteracy
the quality or state of being illiterate; especially :inability to read or
write
illuminati
persons who are or who claim to be unusually enlightened
illumination
one of the decorative features used in the art of illuminating or in
decorative lighting
illusory
based on or producing illusion:DECEPTIVE
illustrate
to provide with visual features intended to explain or decorate
imbibe
to absorb or take in as if by drinking
imbroglio
a violently confused or bitterly complicated
altercation:EMBROILMENT
imitation
the quality of an object in possessing some of the nature or attributes of
a transcendent idea
immaculate
having no stain or blemish:PURE
immanent
remaining or operating within a domain of reality or realm of
discourse:INHERENT; specifically :having existence or effect only
within the mind or consciousness
immaterial
of no substantial consequence:UNIMPORTANT
immemorial
extending or existing since beyond the reach of memory, record, or
tradition
imminent
ready to take place; especially :hanging threateningly over one's head
immune
not susceptible or responsive; especially :having a high degree of
resistance to a disease
immure
to enclose within or as if within walls b:IMPRISON
immutable
not capable of or susceptible to change
imp
a mischievous child:URCHIN
impair
to damage or make worse by or as if by diminishing in some material
respect
impassive
unsusceptible to or destitute of emotion
impeccable
faultless
impecunious
having very little or no money usually habitually:PENNILESS
impede
to interfere with or slow the progress of
impend
to be about to occur
impenetrable
incapable of being penetrated or pierced or incapable of being
comprehended:INSCRUTABLE
impenitent
not feeling or expressing humble or regretful pain or sorrow for sins or
offenses
imperative
expressive of a command, entreaty, or exhortation
imperial
of, relating to, befitting, or suggestive of an empire or an emperor ;of
superior or unusual size or excellence
imperious
marked by arrogant assurance:DOMINEERING
impertinent
given to or characterized by insolent rudeness
imperturbable
marked by extreme calm, impassivity, and steadiness:SERENE
impervious
not allowing entrance or passage:IMPENETRABLE also not capable of
being damaged or harmed
impetuosity
Rashness.
impetuous
marked by impulsive vehemence or passion
impiety
the quality or state of being impious:IRREVERENCE
implacable
not placable:not capable of being appeased, significantly changed, or
mitigated
implement
CARRY OUT, ACCOMPLISH; especially:to give practical effect to
and ensure of actual fulfillment by concrete measures
implicate
to involve as a consequence, corollary, or natural inference:IMPLY
implode
to collapse inward as if from external pressure; also:to become greatly
reduced as if from collapsing
importune
beg earnestly
imposing
impressive in size, bearing, dignity, or grandeur
impostor
one that assumes false identity or title for the purpose of deception
impotent
not potent:lacking in power, strength, or vigor:HELPLESS
impromptu
composed or uttered without previous
preparation:EXTEMPORANEOUS
improvident
not provident:not foreseeing and providing for the future
improvised
to compose, recite, play, or sing extemporaneously
imprudent
not prudent:lacking discretion
impudent
marked by contemptuous or cocky boldness or disregard of
others:INSOLENT
impugn
to assail by words or arguments:oppose or attack as false or lacking
integrity
impuissance
WEAKNESS, POWERLESSNESS
impute
to lay the responsibility or blame for often falsely or unjustly
imputable:nettle
inadvertent
not focusing the mind on a matter: INATTENTIVE
inalienable
incapable of being alienated, surrendered, or transferred
inane
lacking significance, meaning, or point: SILLY
inanimate
not animated or lively:DULL
inaugurate
to induct into an office with suitable ceremonies
incandescent
strikingly bright, radiant, or clear
incantation
singing or chanting of magic spells; magical formula
incarnate
invested with bodily and especially human nature and form
incendiary
of, relating to, or involving a deliberate burning of property
incense
to arouse the extreme anger or indignation of
inception
an act, process, or instance of beginning:COMMENCEMENT
incessant
continuing or following without interruption:UNCEASING
inch
to move by small degrees:progress slowly
inchoate
being only partly in existence or operation; especially :imperfectly
formed or formulated:FORMLESS
incinerate
to cause to burn to ashes
incipient
beginning to come into being or to become apparent
incisive
impressively direct and decisive (as in manner or presentation)
incite
to move to action:stir up:spur on:urge on
inclement
lacking mildness:as severe in temper or action:UNMERCIFUL
incogitant
THOUGHTLESS, INCONSIDERATE
incongruent
not superposable so as to be coincident throughout,not congruent
inconsequential of no significance:UNIMPORTANT
incontrovertible not open to question:INDISPUTABLE
incorrigible
incapable of being corrected or amended UNALTERABLE,
INVETERATE
incriminate
to charge with or show evidence or proof of involvement in a crime or
fault
inculcate
to teach and impress by frequent repetitions or admonitions
inculpate
INCRIMINATE
incursion
a hostile entrance into a territory:RAID
indefatigable
incapable of being fatigued:UNTIRING
indelible
UNFORGETTABLE, MEMORABLE
indemnity
security against hurt, loss, or damage
indict
to charge with a crime by the finding or presentment of a jury (as a
grand jury) in due form of law
indifferent
marked by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern for
something:APATHETIC
indigenous
having originated in and being produced, growing, living, or occurring
naturally in a particular region or environment
indigent
suffering from indigence:IMPOVERISHED
indispensability absolutely necessary:ESSENTIAL
indoctrinate
to instruct especially in fundamentals or rudiments:TEACH
indolent
averse to activity, effort, or movement:habitually lazy
inducement
a motive or consideration that leads one to action or to additional or
more effective actions
indulgent
indulging or characterized by indulgence; especially:LENIENT
indurate
to make hard
ineffable
incapable of being expressed in words : INDESCRIBABLE
ineluctable
not to be avoided, changed, or resisted:INEVITABLE
inept
generally incompetent:BUNGLING
ineptitude
quality of being inept
inert
deficient in active properties; especially:lacking a usual or anticipated
chemical or biological action
inestimable
Above price.
inevitable
incapable of being avoided or evaded
inexorable
not to be persuaded or moved by entreaty:RELENTLESS
infamy
evil reputation brought about by something grossly criminal, shocking,
or brutal
infatuate
to cause to be foolish:deprive of sound judgment
infelicitous
not appropriate in application or expression
infer
GUESS, SURMISE
inferno
a place or a state that resembles or suggests hell
infiltrate
to pass (troops, for example) surreptitiously into enemy-held territory
infinite
immeasurably or inconceivably great or extensive: INEXHAUSTIBLE
infirm
of poor or deteriorated vitality; especially:feeble from age
inflame
to excite to excessive or uncontrollable action or feeling
influx
a coming in
infuriate
To make furious; enrage
infuse
INSPIRE, ANIMATE
ingenious
marked by originality, resourcefulness, and cleverness in conception or
execution
ingenuous
showing innocent or childlike simplicity and candidness
ingrained
to work indelibly into the natural texture or mental or moral constitution
ingratiating
capable of winning favor:PLEASING
inherent
involved in the constitution or essential character of
something:belonging by nature or habit:INTRINSIC
inimical
a:having the disposition of an enemy:HOSTILEb:reflecting or
indicating hostility:UNFRIENDLY
inimitable
not capable of being imitated: MATCHLESS
iniquity
gross injustice:WICKEDNESS
initial
placed at the beginning:FIRST
inkling
a slight knowledge or vague notion
innocent
free from guilt or sin especially through lack of knowledge of
evil:BLAMELESS
innocuous
not likely to give offense or to arouse strong feelings or
hostility:INOFFENSIVE, INSIPID
innovation
the introduction of something new
inquiry
examination into facts or principles:RESEARCH
insatiable
incapable of being satisfied:QUENCHLESS
insipid
lacking in qualities that interest, stimulate, or challenge:DULL, FLAT
insolent
exhibiting boldness or effrontery:IMPUDENT
insouciant
lighthearted unconcern:NONCHALANCE
inspired
outstanding or brilliant in a way or to a degree suggestive of divine
inspiration
instate
to set or establish in a rank or office:INSTALL
instigate
to goad or urge forward:PROVOKE
instill
to impart gradually
institute
to originate and get established:ORGANIZE
insubordinate
disobedient to authority
insular
characteristic of an isolated people; especially:being, having, or
reflecting a narrow provincial viewpoint
insularity
narrow-mindedness/isolated
insulate
to place in a detached situation:ISOLATE; especially:to separate from
conducting bodies by means of nonconductors so as to prevent transfer
of electricity, heat, or sound
insurgent
a person who revolts against civil authority or an established
government; especially:a rebel not recognized as a belligerent
intangible
not tangible:IMPALPABLE
integral
essential to completeness:CONSTITUENT
integrity
the quality or state of being complete or undivided:COMPLETENESS
intelligible
capable of being understood or comprehended
intemperate
not temperate especially:given to excessive use of intoxicating liquors
intensify
to make intense or more intensive:STRENGTHEN
inter
to deposit (a dead body) in the earth or in a tomb
intercede
to intervene between parties with a view to reconciling
differences:MEDIATE
interdict
to forbid in a usually formal or authoritative manner
interim
an intervening time:INTERVAL
interlock
to become locked together or interconnected
interlope
one that intrudes in a place or sphere of activity
interminable
having or seeming to have no end; especially:wearisomely protracted
intermittent
coming and going at intervals:not continuous
interrogate
to question formally and systematically:probe
intervene
to interfere usually by force or threat of force in another nation's internal
affairs especially to compel or prevent an action
intimate
1. to make known especially publicly or formally:ANNOUNCE 2. a
friend or confidant marked by very close association, contact, or
familiarity
intimidate
to make timid or fearful:FRIGHTEN; especially:to compel or deter by
or as if by threats
intransigent
refusing to compromise or to abandon an extreme position or
attitude:UNCOMPROMISING
intrepid
characterized by resolute fearlessness, fortitude, and endurance
intricacy
the quality or state of being intricate
intrigue
to arouse the interest, desire, or curiosity of
intrinsic
belonging to the essential nature or constitution of a thing
intuition
The act or faculty of knowing or sensing without the use of rational
processes; immediate cognition.
inure
to accustom to accept something undesirable
invective
of, relating to, or characterized by insult or abuse
inveigh
to protest or complain bitterly or vehemently:RAIL
inveigle
to win over by wiles:ENTICE
inventory
an itemized list of current assets:as a catalog of the property of an
individual or estate
investigate
to make a systematic examination; especially:to conduct an official
inquiry
inveterate
firmly established by long persistence
invidious
tending to cause discontent, animosity, or envy
invigorate
to give life and energy to:ANIMATE; also:STIMULATE
invincible
Incapable of being overcome or defeated; unconquerable.
inviolate
not violated or profaned; especially :PURE
invoice
a consignment of merchandise
invoke
to put into effect or operation:IMPLEMENT
invulnerable
incapable of being wounded, injured, or harmed
irascible
marked by hot temper and easily provoked anger
irate
arising from anger
iridescence
a lustrous rainbowlike play of color caused by differential refraction of
light waves (as from an oil slick, soap bubble, or fish scales) that tends
to change as the angle of view changes
irk
to make weary, irritated, or bored
ironclad
so firm or secure as to be unbreakable:as a:BINDING
irony
a pretense of ignorance and of willingness to learn from another
assumed in order to make the other's false conceptions conspicuous by
adroit questioning
irradicable
impossible to eradicate : DEEP-ROOTED
irreducible
impossible to transform into or restore to a desired or simpler condition
irrelevant
not relevant:INAPPLICABLE
irresolute
uncertain how to act or proceed:VACILLATING
irreverent
lacking proper respect or seriousness; also :SATIRIC
irritate
to provoke impatience, anger, or displeasure in:ANNOY
issue
1. the act of publishing or officially giving out or making available 2. a
matter that is in dispute between two or more parties
isthmus
a narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas
itinerant
wandering; traveling
Word list - J
jabber
to talk rapidly, indistinctly, or unintelligibly
jaded
fatigued by overwork:EXHAUSTED
jam
fatigued by overwork:EXHAUSTED
jape
to make mocking fun of
jar
to make a harsh or discordant sound
jargon
The specialized or technical language of a trade, profession, or similar group.
jaundice
a state or attitude characterized by satiety, distaste, or hostility
jaunty
sprightly in manner or appearance:LIVELY
jazz
American music developed especially from ragtime and blues and
characterized by propulsive syncopated rhythms, polyphonic ensemble
playing, varying degrees of improvisation, and often deliberate distortions of
pitch and timbre
jealous
having to do with or arising from feelings of envy, apprehension, or bitterness
jealousy
being jealous
jejune
devoid of significance or interest:DULL
jest
an utterance (as a jeer or quip) intended to be taken as mockery or humor
jettison
to get rid of as superfluous or encumbering : DISCARD
jibe
to be in accord: AGREE
jingoist
extreme chauvinism or nationalism marked especially by a belligerent foreign
policy
jitter
to be nervous or act in a nervous way
jocund
marked by or suggestive of high spirits and lively mirthfulness
jog
a movement, pace, or instance of jogging (as for exercise)
joke
something said or done to provoke laughter; especially :a brief oral narrative
with a climactic humorous twist
jolt
to cause to move with a sudden jerky motion
jot
to write briefly or hurriedly:set down in the form of a note
jovial
markedly good-humored especially as evidenced by jollity and conviviality
jubilant
EXULTANT
judicious
having, exercising, or characterized by sound judgment:DISCREET
juggernaut
a massive inexorable force, campaign, movement, or object that crushes
whatever is in its path
jumble
to mix into a confused or disordered mass
justify
to prove or show to be just, right, or reasonable
juxtapose to place side by side
Word list - K
any of various herbivorous leaping marsupial mammals of Australia, New
Guinea, and adjacent islands with a small head, large ears, long powerful hind
kangaroo
legs, a long thick tail used as a support and in balancing, and rather small
foreleg
ken
the range of vision
kindle
to stir up:AROUSE
kindred
of a similar nature or character:LIKE
kink
a short tight twist or curl caused by a doubling or winding of something upon
itself
knack
a clever trick or stratagem
knave
a tricky deceitful fellow
knead
to work and press into a mass with or as if with the hands
knit
to form by interlacing yarn or thread in a series of connected loops with
needles
knotty
marked by or full of knots; especially :so full of difficulties and complications
as to be likely to defy solution
kudos
fame and renown resulting from an act or achievement:PRESTIGE
Word list - L
labile
readily or continually undergoing chemical, physical, or biological change
or breakdown:UNSTABLE
labored
lacking ease of expression
labyrinth
something extremely complex or tortuous in structure, arrangement, or
character:INTRICACY, PERPLEXITY
laconic
using or involving the use of a minimum of words:concise to the point of
seeming rude or mysterious
lacrimose
lambaste
to attack verbally:CENSURE
lamentable
expressing grief:MOURNFUL
lampoon
a harsh satire usually directed against an individual
landfill
a system of trash and garbage disposal in which the waste is buried
between layers of earth to build up low-lying land
landlord
the owner of property (as land, houses, or apartments) that is leased or
rented to another
landslide
the usually rapid downward movement of a mass of rock, earth, or
artificial fill on a slope; also :the mass that moves down
lane
narrow country road or track, usu between hedges or banks
languid
drooping or flagging from or as if from exhaustion:WEAK
languish
to be or become feeble, weak, or enervated
languor
listless indolence or inertia
lank
not well filled out:SLENDER, THIN
lapse
a slight error typically due to forgetfulness or inattention
larder
a place where food is stored:PANTRY
largesse
liberal giving (as of money) to or as if to an inferior; also :something so
given
lariat
a long light rope (as of hemp or leather) used with a running noose to
catch livestock or with or without the noose to tether grazing
animals:LASSO
lash
to bind with or as if with a line
lassitude
a condition of weariness or debility:FATIGUE
latent
present and capable of becoming though not now visible, obvious, or
active
lathe
machine that shapes pieces of wood, metal, etc by holding and turning
them against a fixed cutting tool
latitude
Freedom from normal restraints, limitations, or regulations.
laudatory
of, relating to, or expressing praise
lavish
expended or produced in abundance
leaven
to raise (as bread) with a leaven
lectern
a stand used to support a book in a convenient position for a standing
reader; especially :one from which scripture lessons are read in a church
service
leer
to cast a sidelong glance
leery
Suspicious or distrustful; wary
legacy
something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or
from the past
legend
an explanatory list of the symbols on a map or chart
legible
capable of being read or deciphered:PLAIN
legion
MANY, NUMEROUS
lenient
exerting a soothing or easing influence:relieving pain or stress
lethal
gravely damaging or destructive:DEVASTATING
lethargy
the quality or state of being lazy, sluggish, or indifferent
levee
an embankment for preventing flooding
levelheaded
having sound judgment:SENSIBLE
leverage
positional advantage; power to act effectively:
levity
excessive or unseemly frivolity
lexicographer an author or editor of a dictionary
liability
something for which one is liable; especially :pecuniary obligation
liaison
a close bond or connection:INTERRELATIONSHIP
liberal
marked by generosity:OPENHANDED
libertine
a person who is unrestrained by convention or morality; specifically :one
leading a dissolute life
liberty
an action going beyond normal limits:as a:a breach of etiquette or
propriety:FAMILIARITY
libretto
the text of a work (as an opera) for the musical theater
licentious
lacking legal or moral restraints; especially :disregarding sexual restraints
lien
a charge upon real or personal property for the satisfaction of some debt or
duty ordinarily arising by operation of law
liken
compare
limber
capable of being shaped:FLEXIBLE
limerick
a light or humorous verse form of 5 chiefly anapestic verses of which lines
1, 2, and 5 are of 3 feet and lines 3 and 4 are of 2 feet with a rhyme
scheme of aabba
limousine
a large luxurious often chauffeur-driven sedan that sometimes has a glass
partition separating the driver's seat from the passenger compartment
limp
lacking firm texture, substance, or structure
limpid
marked by transparency:PELLUCID
linen
cloth made of flax and noted for its strength, coolness, and luster
linger
tarry;saunter; to be slow to act:procrastinate
linoleum
a floor covering made by laying on a burlap or canvas backing a mixture
of solidified linseed oil with gums, cork dust or wood flour or both, and
usually pigments
lint
fuzz consisting especially of fine ravelings and short fibers of yarn and
fabric
lip
either of the fleshy edges of the opening of the mouth
lissome
NIMBLE
list
a deviation from the vertical:TILT; also :the extent of such a deviation
listless
characterized by lack of interest, energy, or spirit:LANGUID
lithe
characterized by easy flexibility and grace
livid
lead-colored; black and blue; enraged
loath
unwilling to do something contrary to one's ways of
thinking:RELUCTANT
loathe
To dislike (someone or something) greatly; abhor.
lode
an ore deposit
lofty
elevated in status:SUPERIOR
loll
to act or move in a lax, lazy, or indolent manner:LOUNGE
loophole
a similar opening to admit light and air or to permit observation
lopsided
lacking in balance, symmetry, or proportion:disproportionately heavy on
one side
loquacious
given to fluent or excessive talk:GARRULOUS
lottery
a drawing of lots in which prizes are distributed to the winners among
persons buying a chance
lounge
to act or move idly or lazily:LOAF
loutish
resembling or befitting a lout
loyal
unswerving in allegiance:as faithful in allegiance to one's lawful sovereign
or government
lubricate
to make smooth or slippery
lucid
clear to the understanding:INTELLIGIBLE
ludicrous
meriting derisive laughter or scorn as absurdly inept, false, or foolish
lug
to carry laboriously
lugubrious
MOURNFUL; especially :exaggeratedly or affectedly mournful
lull
to cause to sleep or rest:SOOTHE
lullaby
a soothing refrain; specifically :a song to quiet children or lull them to
sleep
lumen
a unit of luminous flux equal to the light emitted in a unit solid angle by a
uniform point source of one candle intensity
luminary
a person of prominence or brilliant achievement
lurk
to lie in wait in a place of concealment especially for an evil purpose
lush
growing vigorously especially with luxuriant foliage
lustrous
reflecting light evenly and efficiently without glitter or sparkle
numb:insensible:burnish:lustrous
luxurious
marked by or given to self-indulgence
lyric
the words of a song
lyrics
Expressing deep personal emotion or observations
Word list - M
maelstrom
a powerful often violent whirlpool sucking in objects within a given
radius
magnificent
Grand or noble in thought or deed; exalted.
maladroit
lacking adroitness:INEPT
malaise
uneasiness; distress
malcontent
dissatisfied with the existing state of affairs:DISCONTENTED
malicious
given to, marked by, or arising from malice
malign
having or showing intense often vicious ill will:MALEVOLENT
malinger
to pretend incapacity (as illness) so as to avoid duty or work
malleable
capable of being altered or controlled by outside forces or influences
malodor
an offensive odor
mandatory
containing or constituting a command:OBLIGATORY
mangle
to spoil, injure, or make incoherent especially through ineptitude
mangy
having many worn or bare spots:SEEDY, SHABBY
mania
excessive or unreasonable enthusiasm
manifest
1. a list of passengers or an invoice of cargo for a vehicle (as a ship or
plane) 2. easily understood or recognized by the mind:OBVIOUS
manipulate
to control or play upon by artful, unfair, or insidious means especially to
one's own advantage
mansion
a large imposing residence
manumit
to release from slavery
manuscript
a written or typewritten composition or document as distinguished from
a printed copy; also :a document submitted for publication
mar
To impair the soundness, perfection, or integrity of; spoil
marsh
a tract of soft wet land usually characterized by monocotyledons (as
grasses or cattails)
marsupial
any of an order of mammals comprising kangaroos, wombats,
bandicoots, opossums, and related animals that do not develop a true
placenta and that usually have a pouch on the abdomen of the female
which covers the teats and serves to carry the
martinet
a strict disciplinarian
marvel
something that causes wonder or astonishment
masquerade
to assume the appearance of something one is not
masticate
to grind or crush (food) with or as if with the teeth in preparation for
swallowing:CHEW
mathematical
of mathematics
matriculate
to enroll as a member of a body and especially of a college or university
mattress
a fabric case filled with resilient material (as cotton, hair, feathers, foam
rubber, or an arrangement of coiled springs) used either alone as a bed or
on a bedstead
maudlin
weakly and effusively sentimental
maven
one who is experienced or knowledgeable:EXPERT
maverick
an independent individual who does not go along with a group or party
mawkish
sickly or puerilely sentimental m
meager
deficient in quality or quantity
mean
PENURIOUS, STINGY
meander
to wind or turn in its course
measly
contemptibly small
measured
marked by due proportion
mechanical
Performed or performing in an impersonal or machinelike manner;
automatic
meddle
to interest oneself in what is not one's concern:interfere without right or
propriety
media
a nutrient system for the artificial cultivation of cells or organisms and
especially bacteria
mediate
to interpose between parties in order to reconcile them
mediocre
of moderate or low quality, value, ability, or performance:ORDINARY,
SO-SO
meditate
to engage in contemplation or reflection
medley
a musical composition made up of a series of songs or short pieces
meet
precisely adapted to a particular situation, need, or circumstance:very
proper
meliorism
The belief that society has an innate tendency toward improvement and
that this tendency may be furthered through conscious human effort.
mellifluous
having a smooth rich flow
melody
a sweet or agreeable succession or arrangement of
sounds:TUNEFULNESS
membrane
a thin soft pliable sheet or layer especially of animal or plant origin
menace
to make a show of intention to harm
mend
to put into good shape or working order again:patch up:REPAIR
mendacious
given to or characterized by deception or falsehood or divergence from
absolutetruth
mentor
a trusted counselor or guide:TUTOR, COACH
mercenary
one that serves merely for wages; especially :a soldier hired into foreign
service
mercurial
characterized by rapid and unpredictable changeableness of mood
merited
deserved, be worthy of or entitled or liable to
mesh
to cause (as gears) to engage
mesmerism
hypnotic induction held to involve animal magnetism; broadly
:HYPNOTISM
messy
marked by confusion, disorder, or dirt:UNTIDY
metaphor
a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind
of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or
analogy between them (as in drowning in money); broadly :figurative
language
meteoric
resembling a meteor in speed or in sudden and temporary brilliance
meteorology
a science that deals with the atmosphere and its phenomena and
especially with weather and weather forecasting
meticulous
marked by extreme or excessive care in the consideration or treatment of
details
metrical
of, relating to, or composed in meter
mettle
courage; spirit
miff
a trivial quarrel
migratory
WANDERING, ROVING
mill
a building provided with machinery for grinding grain into flour
mime
to act a part with mimic gesture and action usually without words
minaret
a tall slender tower of a mosque having one or more balconies from
which the summons to prayer is cried by the muezzin
minatory
having a menacing quality:THREATENING
mince
to walk with short steps in a prim affected manner
mingle
to bring or mix together or with something else usually without
fundamental loss of identity:INTERMIX
minion
a servile dependent, follower, or underling
mint
1. to make (as coins) out of metal:COIN 2. a vast sum or amount
minuscule
very small
minutia
a minute or minor detail
miracle
an extremely outstanding or unusual event, thing, or accomplishment
mirage
something illusory and unattainable
mire
to cause to stick fast in or as if in mire
mirth
gladness or gaiety as shown by or accompanied with laughter
misanthrope
a person who hates or distrusts mankind
misbehave
to behave badly
mischievous
able or tending to cause annoyance, trouble, or minor injury
miscreant
one who behaves criminally or viciously
misdemeanor
a crime less serious than a felony
miser
a mean grasping person; especially :one who is extremely stingy with
money
misfortune
a distressing or unfortunate incident or event
misgiving
a feeling of doubt or suspicion especially concerning a future event
mishap
an unfortunate accident
misnomer
a name wrongly or unsuitably applied to a person or an object
misrepresent
to give a false or misleading representation of usually with an intent to
deceive or be unfair
mite
any of numerous small acarid arachnids that often infest animals, plants,
and stored foods and include important disease vectors
mitigate
to make less severe or painful:ALLEVIATE
mnemonics
a technique of improving the memory
mobility
capable of moving or being moved:MOVABLE
mockery
a subject of laughter, derision, or sport
moderate
to lessen the intensity or extremeness of
modicum
a small portion:a limited quantity
molar
A tooth with a broad crown used to grind food, located behind the
premolars.
molding
a decorative plane or curved strip used for ornamentation or finishing
mollify
to soothe in temper or disposition:APPEASE
mollycoddle
a pampered or effeminate man or boy
molt
the act or process of sheding hair, feathers, shell, horns, or an outer layer
periodically; specifically :ECDYSIS
momentous
IMPORTANT, CONSEQUENTIAL
momentum
a property of a moving body that the body has by virtue of its mass and
motion and that is equal to the product of the body's mass and velocity
monochromatic having or consisting of one color or hue
monocle
an eyeglass for one eye
monopolize
to get a monopoly of:assume complete possession or control of
monotone
having the property either of never increasing or of never decreasing as
the values of the independent variable or the subscripts of the terms
increase :MONOTONIC
montage
the production of a rapid succession of images in a motion picture to
illustrate an association of ideas
morass
something that traps, confuses, or impedes
moratorium
a suspension of an ongoing or planned activity
morbid
abnormally susceptible to or characterized by gloomy or unwholesome
feelings
mordant
biting and caustic in thought, manner, or style:INCISIVE
moribund
being in the state of dying:approaching death
morose
having a sullen and gloomy disposition
morsel
morsel small amount or piece of sth, esp food
mortar
a strong vessel in which material is pounded or rubbed with a pestle
mosque
a building used for public worship by Muslims
mosquito
any of a family (Culicidae) of dipteran flies with females that have a set
of slender organs in the proboscis adapted to puncture the skin of
animals and to suck their blood and that are in some cases vectors of
serious diseases
motile
exhibiting or capable of movement
motivate
to provide with a motive:IMPEL
motley
variegated in colorcomposed of diverse often incongruous elements
mottle
to mark with spots or blotches of different color or shades of color as if
stained
mournful
causing sorrow or melancholy:GLOOMY
movement
a distinct structural unit or division having its own key, rhythmic
structure, and themes and forming part of an extended musical
composition
muddy
lacking in clarity or brightness:CLOUDY, DULL
muffle
to wrap or pad with something to dull the sound
mulish
unreasonably and inflexibly obstinate
mumble
to utter with a low inarticulate voice
mundane
characterized by the practical, transitory, and
ordinary:COMMONPLACE
municipality
a primarily urban political unit having corporate status and usually
powers of self-government
munificent
characterized by great liberality or generosity
miser:munificent=zealot:blase munificence â—† stinginess
mural
a mural work of art (as a painting)
murky
characterized by a heavy dimness or obscurity caused by or like that
caused by overhanging fog or smoke
murmur
a low indistinct but often continuous sound
mute
to muffle, reduce, or eliminate the sound of
myopic
a lack of foresight or discernment:a narrow view of something
myriad
having innumerable aspects or elements
Word list - N
nadir
the lowest point
nag
to irritate by constant scolding or urging
naive
deficient in worldly wisdom or informed judgment; especially
:CREDULOUS
narcissism
love of or sexual desire for one's own body
nascent
coming or having recently come into existence
natty
trimly neat and tidy:SMART
nauseate
to feel disgust
naysayer
one who denies, refuses, opposes, or is skeptical or cynical about
something
nebulous
INDISTINCT, VAGUE
needy
being in want:POVERTY-STRICKEN
nefarious
flagrantly wicked or impious:EVIL
negotiate
to confer with another so as to arrive at the settlement of some matter
neophyte
a new convert:PROSELYTE
nepotism
favoritism (as in appointment to a job) based on kinship
nerve
to give strength or courage to:supply with physical or moral force
nettle
to arouse to sharp but transitory annoyance or anger imputable:nettle
neutralize
to counteract the activity or effect of:make ineffective
nibble
to eat or chew in small bits
nip
to take liquor in nips:TIPPLE
nitpicking
minute and usually unjustified criticism
nocturnal
of, relating to, or occurring in the night
noisome
offensive to the senses and especially to the sense of smell
nomad
a member of a people who have no fixed residence but move from place
to place usually seasonally and within a well-defined territory
nominal
TRIFLING, INSIGNIFICANT
nonchalant
having an air of easy unconcern or indifference
nondescript
lacking distinctive or interesting qualities:DULL, DRAB
nonentity
a person of little consequence or significance
nonflammable
not flammable; specifically :not easily ignited and not burning rapidly if
ignited
nonplus
a state of bafflement or perplexity:QUANDARY
nonsense
words or language having no meaning or conveying no intelligible ideas
notch
to cut or make a notch in
notwithstanding
prep (can also follow the n to which it refers ) without being affected by
(sth); in spite of
novelty
something new or unusual
noxious
physically harmful or destructive to living beings
nuance
a subtle distinction or variation
nucleate
to form into a nucleus:CLUSTER
nudge
to touch or push gently; especially :to seek the attention of by a push of
the elbow
nurture
to supply with nourishment EDUCATE
Word list - O
oafish
a stupid person:BOOB
oasis
a fertile or green area in an arid region (as a desert)
obdurate
resistant to persuasion or softening influences
obedient
submissive to the restraint or command of authority:willing to obey
obeisance
1. a movement of the body made in token of respect or submission:BOW
2. a movement of the body made in token of respect or submission:BOW
obfuscate
to make obscure
obituary
a notice of a person's death usually with a short biographical account
obligatory
binding in law or conscience
oblige
to do a favor for
obliging
willing to do favors:ACCOMMODATING
oblique
not straightforward:INDIRECT; also :OBSCURE
obliterate
to remove from existence:destroy utterly all trace, indication, or
significance of
oblivious
lacking remembrance, memory, or mindful attention
obloquy
Abusively detractive language or utterance; calumny
obscure
not clearly seen or easily distinguished:FAINT
obsequious
marked by or exhibiting a fawning attentiveness
observatory
a building or place given over to or equipped for observation of natural
phenomena (as in astronomy);
obsess
to haunt or excessively preoccupy the mind of
obsolete
of a kind or style no longer current
obstacle
something that impedes progress or achievement
obstinate
adj. perversely adhering to an opinion, purpose, or course in spite of
reason, arguments, or persuasion
obstreperous marked by unruly or aggressive noisiness:CLAMOROUS
obstruct
to hinder from passage, action, or operation
obtuse
lacking sharpness or quickness of sensibility or intellect
obviate
to anticipate and prevent (as a situation) or make unnecessary (as an
action)
occlude
to close up or block off:OBSTRUCT
occult
not easily apprehended or understood:ABSTRUSE, MYSTERIOUS
occurrence
something that occurs
ode
a lyric poem usually marked by exaltation of feeling and style, varying
length of line, and complexity of stanza forms
odious
exciting or deserving hatred or repugnance
offbeat
eccentric, unconventional
offend
to cause dislike, anger, or vexation
offhand
without premeditation or preparation:EXTEMPORE
officious
volunteering one's services where they are neither asked nor
needed:MEDDLESOME
offish
somewhat cold and reserved:STANDOFFISH
ominous
being or exhibiting an omen : PORTENTOUS; especially : foreboding or
foreshowing evil : INAUSPICIOUS
omniscient
having infinite awareness, understanding, and insight
opaque
exhibiting opacity:blocking the passage of radiant energy and especially
light
opera
a drama set to music and made up of vocal pieces with orchestral
accompaniment and orchestral overtures and interludes; specifically
:GRAND OPERA
opine
to express opinions
opportune
suitable or convenient for a particular occurrence
oppose
to place over against something so as to provide resistance,
counterbalance, or contrast
oppression
unjust or cruel exercise of authority or power
opprobrious
expressive of opprobrium:SCURRILOUS
optimization
an act, process, or methodology of making something (as a design, system,
or decision) as fully perfect, functional, or effective as possible;
opulent
amply or plentifully provided or fashioned often to the point of ostentation
oracle
a person (as a priestess of ancient Greece) through whom a deity is
believed to speak
oration
an elaborate discourse delivered in a formal and dignified manner
orchestra
a group of musicians including especially string players organized to
perform ensemble music
orient
get one's bearings; adjust
original
not secondary, derivative, or imitative
ornithology
a branch of zoology dealing with birds
orthodoxy
the quality or state of being conforming to established doctrine especially
in religion
oscillate
to swing backward and forward like a pendulum
ossify
to become hardened or conventional and opposed to change
ossilate
ostentatious
marked by or fond of conspicuous or vainglorious and sometimes
pretentious display
ostracism
exclusion by general consent from common privileges or social acceptance
oust
to remove from or dispossess of property or position by legal action, by
force, or by the compulsion of necessity
outgoing
openly friendly and responsive:EXTROVERTED
outmaneuver to maneuver with better effect than; outwit
outmoded
no longer acceptable, current, or usable
outwit
to get the better of by superior cleverness:OUTSMART
overbearing
harshly and haughtily arrogant
overdose
too great a dose (as of a therapeutic agent)
overexposure
to expose excessively; especially:to expose (as film) to excessive radiation
(as light)
overlap
to occupy the same area in part:lap over
oversee
INSPECT, EXAMINE
overt
open to view:MANIFEST
overture
something introductory:PRELUDE
overwhelm
to make helpless, as with greater force or deep emotion; overcome; crush;
overpower
overwrought extremely excited:AGITATED
oxymoron
a combination of contradictory or incongruous words
Word list - P
pachyderm
any of various nonruminant hoofed mammals (as an elephant, a
rhinoceros, or a pig) most of which have a thick skin
pacify
to allay the anger or agitation of:SOOTHE
pack
a group of often predatory animals of the same kind
pact
COMPACT; especially:an international treaty
padding
material with which something is padded
paean
a joyous song or hymn of praise, tribute, thanksgiving, or triumph;
broadly
painstaking
taking pains:expending, showing, or involving diligent care and effort
palatable
agreeable to the palate or taste
palatial
of, relating to, or being a palace
palette
a particular range, quality, or use of color
pall
to lose in interest or attraction
palliate
to reduce the violence of (a disease)
pallid
Having an abnormally pale or wan complexion
pallor
(n.) lack of facial color
palmy
marked by prosperity
palpable
easily perceived by the senses; audible, recognizable, perceptible,
noticeable, etc.
palter
to act insincerely or deceitfully
paltry
practically worthless; trifling; insignificant; contemptible; petty
pan
to criticize unfavorably, as in reviewing
panache
dash or flamboyance in style and action
Pandemonium
Wild uproar or noise
pander
to act as a pander; especially:to provide gratification for others' desires
panegyric
a eulogistic oration or writing; also:formal or elaborate praise
panorama
comprehensive view; unobstructed view in all directions
panoramic
an unobstructed or complete view of an area in every direction
pantechnicon
a furniture van
pantry
a room (as in a hotel or hospital) for preparation of foods on order
parable
EXAMPLE; specifically:a usually short fictitious story that illustrates a
moral attitude or a religious principle
paradigm
EXAMPLE, PATTERN; especially :an outstandingly clear or typical
example or archetype
paradise
a place or state of bliss, felicity, or delight
paradox
a statement that is seemingly contradictory or opposed to common
sense and yet is perhaps true
paragon
a model of excellence or perfection
parallel
extending in the same direction, everywhere equidistant, and not
meeting
paramount
superior to all others
paranoia
a tendency on the part of an individual or group toward excessive or
irrational suspiciousness and distrustfulness of others
paraphrase
to make a restatement of a text, passage, or work giving the meaning in
another form
parch
to dry or shrivel with cold
pariah
a member of a low caste of southern India
parity
the quality or state of being equal or equivalent
parlance
manner or mode of speech
parochial
restricted to a small area or scope; narrow; limited; provincial
parody
a literary or musical work in which the style of an author or work is
closely imitated for comic effect or in ridicule; a poor or weak imitation
paroxysm
a sudden violent emotion or action : OUTBURST
parquetry
inlaid woodwork in geometric forms, usually of contrasting woods,
used esp. in flooring
parrot
to repeat by rote
parry
to evade especially by an adroit answer
parse
to resolve (as a sentence) into component parts of speech and describe
them grammatically
parsimony
a tendency to be over-careful in spending; unreasonable economy;
stinginess
partial
inclined to favor one party more than the other:BIASED
partiality
inclination; bias
particularize
to state in detail
partisan
a firm adherent to a party, faction, cause, or person; especially:one
exhibiting blind, prejudiced, and unreasoning allegiance
passionate
capable of, affected by, or expressing intense feeling
pastiche
a literary, artistic, musical, or architectural work that imitates the style
of previous work;
patent
readily visible or intelligible:OBVIOUS
pathology
something abnormal,deviation from propriety or from an assumed
normal state of something nonliving or nonmaterial
patina
a superficial covering or exterior
patrician
a person of high birth:ARISTOCRAT
patriot
one who loves his or her country and supports its authority and interests
patronize
to be kind or helpful to, but in a haughty or snobbish way, as if dealing
with an inferior
paucity
smallness of number:FEWNESS
paunchy
having an enlarged, swollen, or protruding abdomen
pauper
a person destitute of means except such as are derived from charity;
specifically :one who receives aid from funds designated for the poor
pebble
a small usually rounded stone especially when worn by the action of
water
peccadillo
a slight offense
peck
(try to) strike (sth) with the beak
pedagogue
TEACHER, SCHOOLMASTER; especially :a dull, formal, or pedantic
teacher
pedant
one who makes a show of knowledge
pedestrian
COMMONPLACE, UNIMAGINATIVE
peep
to utter the slightest sound
peerless
MATCHLESS, INCOMPARABLE
peeve
to make peevish or resentful:ANNOY
pejorative
having negative connotations; especially :tending to disparage or
belittle:DEPRECIATORY
pelf
Wealth or riches, especially when dishonestly acquired
pellucid
easy to understand
pen
a female swan
penalty
the suffering in person, rights, or property that is annexed by law or
judicial decision to the commission of a crime or public offense
penchant
a strong and continued inclination; broadly :LIKING
penetrate
to enter by overcoming resistance:PIERCE
penitent
feeling or expressing humble or regretful pain or sorrow for sins or
offenses:REPENTANT
pensive
musingly or dreamily thoughtful
penury
a cramping and oppressive lack of resources (as money); especially
:severe poverty
perceptible
capable of being perceived especially by the senses
peremptory
characterized by often imperious or arrogant self-assurance
perfervid
marked by overwrought or exaggerated emotion : excessively fervent
perfidy
the quality or state of being faithless or disloyal:TREACHERY
perforate
to make a hole through; especially :to make a line of holes in to
facilitate separation
perfunctorily
lacking in interest or enthusiasm
perimeter
the boundary of a closed plane figure
peripatetic
moving or traveling from place to place:ITINERANT
peripheral
of, relating to, involving, or forming a periphery or surface part
perjury
the voluntary violation of an oath or vow either by swearing to what is
untrue or by omission to do what has been promised under oath:false
swearing perjury:deposition
permanence
the quality or state of being permanent:DURABILITY
permeable
capable of being permeated:PENETRABLE; especially :having pores
or openings that permit liquids or gases to pass through
pernicious
highly injurious or destructive:DEADLY
perpetual
continuing forever:EVERLASTING
persecute
to come to mind continually; obsess:
persevere
to persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking in spite of
counterinfluences, opposition, or discouragement
persiflage
to provide with an incentive; move to action; impel
personable
pleasant or amiable in person:ATTRACTIVE
perspective
an optical glass (as a telescope)
perspicacious
of acute mental vision or discernment:KEEN
perspicuity
plain to the understanding especially because of clarity and precision of
presentation
pertinacious
stubbornly unyielding or tenacious
pertinent
having a clear decisive relevance to the matter in hand
perturb
to disturb greatly in mind:DISQUIET
peruse
to examine or consider with attention and in detail:STUDY
pervade
to become diffused throughout every part of suffuse
pessimism
an inclination to emphasize adverse aspects, conditions, and
possibilities or to expect the worst possible outcome
pesticide
an agent used to destroy pests
pestle
a usually club-shaped implement for pounding or grinding substances in
a mortar
petition
to make a request to:SOLICIT
petrography
the description and systematic classification of rocks
petty
having secondary rank or importance : MINOR, SUBORDINATE
petulance
the quality or state of being petulant:PEEVISHNESS
phenomenal
EXTRAORDINARY, REMARKABLE
philanthropic
of, relating to, or characterized by philanthropy:HUMANITARIAN
Philistine
a person who is guided by materialism and is usually disdainful of
intellectual or artistic values
philosophical
of or according to philosophy
phlegmatic
having or showing a slow and stolid temperament
photorespiration
Oxidation of carbohydrates in plants with the release of carbon dioxide
during photosynthesis
piddling
TRIVIAL, PALTRY
piebald
of different colors; especially : spotted or blotched with black and white
pigment
a coloring matter in animals and plants especially in a cell or tissue;
pilfer
STEAL; especially :to steal stealthily in small amounts and often again
and again
pillar
a firm upright support for a superstructure:POST
pillory
to expose to public contempt, ridicule, or scorn
pilot
one employed to steer a ship:HELMSMAN
pine
to yearn intensely and persistently especially for something unattainable
pinnacle
an upright architectural member generally ending in a small spire and
used especially in Gothic construction to give weight especially to a
buttress
pinpoint
to locate or aim with great precision
piquant
agreeably stimulating to the palate; especially :SPICY
pithy
having substance and point:tersely cogent
pitiless
devoid of pity:MERCILESS
pittance
a small portion, amount, or allowance; also :a meager wage or
remuneration
pixel
The smallest image-forming unit of a video display
placate
to soothe or mollify especially by concessions:APPEASE
placebo
an inert or innocuous substance used especially in controlled
experiments testing the efficacy of another substance (as a drug)
plagiarize
to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own:use
(another's production) without crediting the source
plangent
having a loud reverberating sound
plantation
a usually large group of plants and especially trees under cultivation
plateau
a region of little or no change in a graphic representation
platitude
a banal, trite, or stale remark
platonic
purely spiritual; theoretical; without sensual desire
plaudit
An expression of applause.
plausible
superficially fair, reasonable, or valuable but often specious
playoff
A final game or series of games played to break a tie
pleat
FOLD; especially :to arrange in pleats
plethora
EXCESS, SUPERFLUITY; also :PROFUSION, ABUNDANCE
pliable
a. supple enough to bend freely or repeatedly without breaking b. Easily
influenced, persuaded, or swayed; tractable.
pliant
easily influenced:YIELDING
plight
to put or give in pledge:ENGAGE
plodding
working laboriously and monotonously:DRUDGE
plot
1. a secret plan for accomplishing a usually evil or unlawful
end:INTRIGUE 2. the plan or main story of a literary work
pluck
1. to play by sounding the strings with the fingers or a pick 2.
courageous readiness to fight or continue against odds:dogged
resolution
plumage
the feathers of a bird
plumb
to measure the depth of with a plumb
plummet
to drop sharply and abruptly
plump
having a full rounded usually pleasing form a plump woman
plurality
A majority.
polarize
to break up into opposing factions or groupings
polemic
the art or practice of disputation or controversy
polish
of Poland or the Poles
polished
highly developed, finished, or refined PERFECT
politic
characterized by shrewdness in managing, contriving, or dealing
pollster
one that conducts a poll or compiles data obtained by a poll
Pollyanna
A person regarded as being foolishly or blindly optimistic
pompous
having or exhibiting self-importance:ARROGANT
ponderable
significant enough to be worth considering:APPRECIABLE
ponderous
of very great weight
pontificate
to speak or express opinions in a pompous or dogmatic way
porcelain
a hard, fine-grained, sonorous, nonporous, and usually translucent and
white ceramic ware that consists essentially of kaolin, quartz, and
feldspar and is fired at high temperatures
pore
a minute opening especially in an animal or plant; especially :one by
which matter passes through a membrane
porous
capable of being penetrated
portentous
eliciting amazement or wonder:PRODIGIOUS
portrait
PICTURE; especially :a pictorial representation (as a painting) of a
person usually showing the face
poseur
a person who pretends to be what he or she is not:an affected or
insincere person
posit
to assume or affirm the existence of:POSTULATE
posterity
the offspring of one progenitor to the furthest generation
postscript
a note or series of notes appended to a completed letter, article, or book
postulate
to assume or claim as true, existent, or necessary:depend upon or start
from the postulate of
posture
to assume an artificial or pretended attitude:ATTITUDINIZE
pot
an enclosed framework of wire, wood, or wicker for catching fish or
lobsters
potable
suitable for drinking
potboiler
a literary or artistic work of poor quality, producedquickly for profit
potentate
RULER, SOVEREIGN; broadly:one who wields great power or sway
potentiate
to make effective or active or more effective or more active; also:to
augment the activity of (as a drug) synergistically
pout
to show displeasure by thrusting out the lips or wearing a sullen
expression
prairie
a large area of level or rolling land in the Mississippi valley that in its
natural uncultivated state usually has deep fertile soil, a cover of tall
coarse grasses, and few trees
prate
to talk long and idly:CHATTER
preach
to deliver a sermon
precarious
characterized by a lack of security or stability that threatens with danger
precedent
prior in time, order, arrangement, or significance
precipice
a very steep or overhanging place; dangerous position:CLIFF
precipitate
to bring about especially abruptly
precipitation
something precipitated:as a deposit on the earth of hail, mist, rain, sleet,
or snow
precipitous
very steep, perpendicular, or overhanging in rise or fall
preclude
To make impossible, as by action taken in advance; prevent
precursor
one that precedes and indicates the approach of another
predecessor
one that precedes; especially:a person who has previously occupied a
position or office to which another has succeeded
preeminent
having paramount rank, dignity, or importance:OUTSTANDING
preempt
to replace with something considered to be of greater value or
priority:take precedence over
preen
to dress or smooth (oneself) up:PRIMP
preface
the introductory remarks of a speaker or author
pregnant
abounding in fancy, wit, or resourcefulness:INVENTIVE
prejudice
an adverse judgment or opinion formed beforehand or without
knowledge or examination of the facts.
preliminary
coming before and usually forming a necessary prelude to something
else
premeditated
characterized by fully conscious willful intent and a measure of
forethought and planning
preponderant
having superior weight, force, or influence
prepossessing
tending to create a favorable impression:ATTRACTIVE
preposterous
contrary to nature, reason, or common sense:ABSURD
presage
FORETELL, PREDICT
prescience
foreknowledge of events:a:divine omniscience b:human anticipation of
the course of events:FORESIGHT
prescription
a written direction for a therapeutic or corrective agent; specifically:one
for the preparation and use of a medicine
presentiment
a feeling that something will or is about to happen:PREMONITION
preservative
something that preserves or has the power of preserving; specifically:an
additive used to protect against decay, discoloration, or spoilage
prestige
standing or estimation in the eyes of people:weight or credit in general
opinion
presumptuous
overstepping due bounds (as of propriety or courtesy):taking liberties
pretense
an inadequate or insincere attempt to attain a certain condition or
quality
prevail
to gain ascendancy through strength or superiority:TRIUMPH
prevalent
generally or widely accepted, practiced, or favored:WIDESPREAD
prevaricate
to deviate from the truth:EQUIVOCATE
prime
the earliest stage
primordial
existing in or persisting from the beginning
primp
to dress, adorn, or arrange in a careful or finicky manner
principal
most important, consequential, or influential:CHIEF
prissy
being prim and precise:FINICKY
pristine
not spoiled, corrupted, or polluted (as by civilization):PURE
privation
the state of being deprived; especially : lack of what is needed for
existence
privilege
a right or immunity granted as a peculiar benefit, advantage, or
favor:PREROGATIVE; especially :such a right or immunity attached
specifically to a position or an office
probe
to make a searching exploratory investigation
probity
adherence to the highest principles and ideals:UPRIGHTNESS
proclivity
A natural propensity or inclination; predisposition
procrastinate
to put off intentionally the doing of something that should be done
procure
to get possession of:obtain by particular care and effort
prod
to incite to action:STIR
prodigal
characterized by wasteful expenditure:LAVISH
prodigy
an extraordinary, marvelous, or unusual accomplishment, deed, or event
profane
to treat (something sacred) with abuse, irreverence, or
contempt:DESECRATE
proffer
to present for acceptance:TENDER, OFFER
proficient
having or marked by an advanced degree of competence, as in an art,
vocation, profession, or branch of learning
profligate
wildly extravagant:PRODIGAL
profusion
great quantity:lavish display or supply
proliferate
to increase in number as if by proliferating:MULTIPLY
prolix
marked by or using an excess of words
prolong
to lengthen in extent, scope, or range
prominent
readily noticeable:CONSPICUOUS
promote
to contribute to the growth or prosperity of:FURTHER
propagate
to cause to spread out and affect a greater number or greater
area:EXTEND
propensity
an often intense natural inclination or preference
prophetic
foretelling events:PREDICTIVE
propitiate
to gain or regain the favor or goodwill of:APPEASE, CONCILIATE
propitious
favorably disposed:BENEVOLENT
proposal
an act of putting forward or stating something for consideration
prosaic
DULL, UNIMAGINATIVE,EVERYDAY, ORDINARY
proscribe
to condemn or forbid as harmful or unlawful:PROHIBIT
prosecution
the act or process of prosecuting; specifically:the institution and
continuance of a criminal suit involving the process of pursuing formal
charges against an offender to final judgment
proselytize
to recruit or convert especially to a new faith, institution, or cause
prospect
to search for or explore (a region) for mineral deposits or oil.
prosperous
enjoying vigorous and healthy growth:FLOURISHING
prostrate
stretched out with face on the ground in adoration or submission;
also:lying flat
protean
displaying great diversity or variety:VERSATILE
protest
to execute or have executed a formal protest against (as a bill or note)
protocol
a code prescribing strict adherence to correct etiquette and precedence
protract
to prolong in time or space:CONTINUE
protuberant
thrusting out from a surrounding or adjacent surface often as a rounded
mass:PROMINENT
provident
FRUGAL, SAVING
providential
Happening as if through divine intervention; opportune.
provincial
limited in outlook:NARROW
provisional
serving for the time being:TEMPORARY
provisory
containing or subject to a proviso:CONDITIONAL
Word list - Q
quaff
to drink (a beverage) deeply
quail
to recoil in dread or terror:COWER
quaint
unusual or different in character or appearance:ODD
qualified
limited or modified in some way
quandary a state of perplexity or doubt
quarantine to isolate from normal relations or communication
quarry
1. one that is sought or pursued:PREY 2. an open excavation usually for
obtaining building stone, slate, or limestone
quash
to suppress or extinguish summarily and completely
quell
to thoroughly overwhelm and reduce to submission or passivity
quench
to cool (as heated metal) suddenly by immersion (as in oil or water)
querulous habitually complaining
queue
a waiting line especially of persons or vehicles
quibble
to evade the point of an argument by caviling about words
quiescent marked by inactivity or repose:tranquilly at rest
quip
a witty or funny observation or response usually made on the spur of the
moment
quixotic
foolishly impractical especially in the pursuit of ideals; especially :marked by
rash lofty romantic ideas or extravagantly chivalrous action
quota
a proportional part or share; especially :the share or proportion assigned to
each in a division or to each member of a body
quotidian COMMONPLACE, ORDINARY
Word list - R
rabble
a disorganized or disorderly crowd of people:MOB
rabid
extremely violent:FURIOUS
racketeer
one who obtains money by an illegal enterprise usually involving
intimidation
raconteur
a person who excels in telling anecdotes
racy
having a strongly marked quality:PIQUANT
raffish
marked by or suggestive of flashy vulgarity or crudeness
raffle
a lottery in which the prize is won by one of numerous persons buying
chances
rafter
any of the parallel beams that support a roof
rage
violent and uncontrolled anger
ragged
torn or worn to tatters
ragtime
rhythm characterized by strong syncopation in the melody with a
regularly accented accompaniment
rail
to revile or scold in harsh, insolent, or abusive language
raisin
a grape of any of several varieties that has been dried in the sun or by
artificial heat
rakish
of, relating to, or characteristic of a rake : DISSOLUTE
ramble
to move aimlessly from place to place
rambunctious
marked by uncontrollable exuberance:UNRULY
rampart
a protective barrier:BULWARK
ramshackle
appearing ready to collapse:RICKETY
rancid
offensive in odor or flavor:RANK
rancor
bitter deep-seated ill will
range
a series of mountains
ranger
the keeper of a British royal park or forest
rank
offensive in odor or flavor; especially :RANCID
rankle
to cause anger, irritation, or deep bitterness
rant
to scold vehemently
rapacious
excessively grasping or covetous
rapport
RELATION; especially :relation marked by harmony, conformity,
accord, or affinity
rapprochement establishment of or state of having cordial relations
rapscallion
RASCAL, NE'ER-DO-WELL
rapt
wholly absorbed: ENGROSSED
rash
marked by or proceeding from undue haste or lack of deliberation or
caution
raspy
HARSH, GRATING
ratify
to approve and sanction formally:CONFIRM
ratiocination
the process of exact thinking:REASONING
ration
a food allowance for one day
rationalize
to provide plausible but untrue reasons for conduct
raucous
disagreeably harsh or strident:HOARSE
rave
an extravagantly favorable criticism
ravel
to separate or undo the texture of:UNRAVEL
ravenous
very eager or greedy for food, satisfaction, or gratification
raze
to destroy to the ground:DEMOLISH
reactant
a substance that enters into and is altered in the course of a chemical
reaction
reactionary
relating to, marked by, or favoring reaction; especially :ultraconservative
in politics
ream
a quantity of paper being 20 quires or variously 480, 500, or 516 sheets
reap
to gather by reaping:HARVEST
reaper
one who harvests grain
reassure
to restore to confidence
rebellow
rebuff
to reject or criticize sharply:SNUB
rebus
a representation of words or syllables by pictures of objects or by
symbols whose names resemble the intended words or syllables in sound;
also :a riddle made up of such pictures or symbols
recalcitrant
obstinately defiant of authority or restraint
recant
to withdraw or repudiate (a statement or belief) formally and
publicly:RENOUNCE
recapitulate
to repeat the principal points or stages of : SUMMARIZE
recessive
producing little or no phenotypic effect when occurring in heterozygous
condition with a contrasting allele
recidivism
a tendency to relapse into a previous condition or mode of behavior;
especially :relapse into criminal behavior
reciprocate
to move forward and backward alternately
reckless
marked by lack of proper caution:careless of consequences
recluse
a person who leads a secluded or solitary life
recoil
to fall back under pressure
reconcile
to make consistent or congruous
recondite
difficult or impossible for one of ordinary understanding or knowledge to
comprehend:DEEP
reconnaissance
a preliminary survey to gain information; especially :an exploratory
military survey of enemy territory
reconnoiter
To make a preliminary examination of for military, surveying, or
geological purposes.
reconstitute
to constitute again or anew; especially :to restore to a former condition
by adding water
rectify
to correct by removing errors:ADJUST
rectitude
moral integrity:RIGHTEOUSNESS
recuperate
to regain a former state or condition; especially :to recover health or
strength
redolent
exuding fragrance:AROMATIC
redoubtable
ILLUSTRIOUS, EMINENT; broadly :worthy of respect
redress
to set right:REMEDY
redundant
exceeding what is necessary or normal:SUPERFLUOUS
reedy
having many reeds
reel
a revolvable device on which something flexible is wound
refinery
a building and equipment for refining or processing (as oil or sugar)
reflective
marked by reflection:THOUGHTFUL, DELIBERATIVE
refractory
resisting control or authority:STUBBORN, UNMANAGEABLE
refresh
to restore strength and animation to:REVIVE
refugee
one that flees; especially :a person who flees to a foreign country or
power to escape danger or persecution
refulgent
a radiant or resplendent quality or state:BRILLIANCE
refute
to prove wrong by argument or evidence:show to be false or erroneous
regard
a feeling of respect and affection:ESTEEM
regenerate
restored to a better, higher, or more worthy state
regime
a government in power
regimen
a systematic plan (as of diet, therapy, or medication) especially when
designed to improve and maintain the health of a patient
regress
to tend to approach or revert to a mean
regression
A going back; a withdrawing or returning; (opposite of progression)
rehabilitate
to restore to a former state (as of efficiency, good management, or
solvency)
rehabilitation
rehabilitating or being rehabilitated
rehearsal
a private performance or practice session preparatory to a public
appearance
reign
royal authority:SOVEREIGNTY
rein
to check or stop by or as if by a pull at the reins
reiterate
to state or do over again or repeatedly sometimes with wearying effect
rejoice
to feel joy or great delight
relapse
to slip or fall back into a former worse state
release
to set free from restraint, confinement, or servitude
relentless
showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or
pace:UNRELENTING
relevant
having significant and demonstrable bearing on the matter at hand
religion
a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith
relinquish
to give over possession or control of:YIELD
relish
characteristic flavor; especially :pleasing or zestful flavor
reluctant
Unwilling; disinclined:
remiss
showing neglect or inattention:LAX
remnant
a usually small part, member, or trace remaining
remodel
to alter the structure of:REMAKE
remonstrance
an earnest presentation of reasons for opposition or grievance; especially
:a document formally stating such points
remorse
a gnawing distress arising from a sense of guilt for past wrongs:SELFREPROACH
remunerate
to pay an equivalent to for a service, loss, or expense:RECOMPENSE
rend
to split or tear apart or in pieces by violence
renounce
to give up, refuse, or resign usually by formal declaration
renovate
to restore to a former better state (as by cleaning, repairing, or
rebuilding)
repartee
a succession or interchange of clever retorts:amusing and usually light
sparring with words
repatriate
to restore or return to the country of origin, allegiance, or citizenship
repeal
to rescind or annul by authoritative act; especially :to revoke or abrogate
by legislative enactment
repel
to drive back:REPULSE
repertoire
the complete list or supply of dramas, operas, or musical works available
for performance
replete
fully or abundantly provided or filled
reportage
the act or process of reporting news
repose
to take a rest
reprehensible
worthy of or deserving reprehension:CULPABLE
repressed
characterized by restraint
reprieve
to delay the punishment of (as a condemned prisoner)
reprimand
to reprove sharply or censure formally usually from a position of
authority
reprisal
the act or practice in international law of resorting to force short of war
in retaliation for damage or loss suffered
reproach
an expression of rebuke or disapproval
reprobate
1. to condemn strongly as unworthy, unacceptable, or evil 2. A morally
unprincipled person.
reproof
criticism for a fault:REBUKE
reprove
to scold or correct usually gently or with kindly intent
reptile
Any of various cold-blooded, usually egg-laying vertebrates of the class
Reptilia, such as a snake, lizard, crocodile, turtle, or dinosaur, having an
external covering of scales or horny plates and breathing by means of
lungs.
repudiate
to refuse to accept; especially :to reject as unauthorized or as having no
binding force
repugnant
exciting distaste or aversion;inconsistent.
repulse
to drive or beat back:REPEL
rescind
to make void (as an act) by action of the enacting authority or a superior
authority:REPEAL
resentment
a feeling of indignant displeasure or persistent ill will at something
regarded as a wrong, insult, or injury
reserved
restrained in words and actions
resign
to give up one's office or position:QUIT
resilience
the capability of a strained body to recover its size and shape after
deformation caused especially by compressive stress
resin
a sticky substance found in some plants
resolute
marked by firm determination:RESOLVED
resonant
(adj.) resounding; re-echoing
resourceful
able to meet situations:capable of devising ways and means
respire
BREATHE; specifically :to inhale and exhale air successively
respite
A usually short interval of rest or relief.
resplendent
shining brilliantly:characterized by a glowing splendor
responsive
quick to respond or react appropriately or sympathetically: SENSITIVE
restive
marked by impatience:FIDGETY
restless
marked by a lack of quiet, repose, or rest
restore
to put or bring back into existence or use
restrain
to limit, restrict, or keep under control
resurgence
a rising again into life, activity, or prominence:RENASCENCE
resuscitate
to revive from apparent death or from unconsciousness; also
:REVITALIZE
retainer
a person attached or owing service to a household; especially
:SERVANT
retaliate
to repay (as an injury) in kind
retard
to slow up especially by preventing or hindering advance or
accomplishment:IMPEDE
reticent
restrained in expression, presentation, or appearance
retinue
a group of retainers or attendants
retort
to pay or hurl back:RETURN
retouch
to alter (as a photographic negative) to produce a more desirable
appearance
retract
TAKE BACK, WITHDRAW
retreat
the usually forced withdrawal of troops from an enemy or from an
advanced position
retrench
to cut out:EXCISE
retrieve
recover; find and bring in
retrograde
going backward; degenerating
retrospective
affecting things past:RETROACTIVE
revelry
noisy partying or merrymaking
revenge
to inflict injury in return for
revere
to show devoted deferential honor to:regard as worthy of great honor
revise
to make a new, amended, improved, or up-to-date version of
revive
to return to consciousness or life:become active or flourishing again
revoke
to annul by recalling or taking back:RESCIND
revue
a theatrical production consisting typically of brief loosely connected
often satirical skits, songs, and dances
rewarding
yielding or likely to yield a reward:VALUABLE, SATISFYING
ribald
CRUDE, OFFENSIVE
rickety
lacking stability or firmness:SHAKY
rider
a clause appended to a legislative bill to secure a usually distinct object
ridicule
the act of exposing to laughter:DERISION, MOCKERY
rife
copiously supplied:ABOUNDING
riffraff
People regarded as disreputable or worthless
rift
BREACH, ESTRANGEMENT
rigid
inflexibly set in opinioncircular:asymmetrical::protean:rigid
rigmarole
a set of confused and meaningless statements ; a long and complicated
and confusing procedure
rile
to make agitated and angry:UPSET
riot
to indulge in revelry or wantonness
risible
arousing or provoking laughter; especially :LAUGHABLE
rite
a prescribed form or manner governing the words or actions for a
ceremony
rival
one of two or more striving to reach or obtain something that only one
can possess
rive
to wrench open or tear apart or to pieces:REND
riveting
having the power to fix the attention : ENGROSSING, FASCINATING
rivulet
a small stream
robust
having or exhibiting strength or vigorous health
rodent
any of an order (Rodentia) of relatively small gnawing mammals (as a
mouse, a squirrel, or a beaver) that have in both jaws a single pair of
incisors with a chisel-shaped edge
roil
to stir up:DISTURB, DISORDER
roister
to engage in noisy revelry:CAROUSE
roster
a roll or list of personnel
rostrum
a stage for public speaking
rosy
characterized by or tending to promote optimism
rouse
to stir up:EXCITE
rubicund
having a healthy reddish color
rudimentary
Being in the earliest stages of development; incipient.
rue
to feel penitence, remorse, or regret for
ruffian
a brutal person:BULLY
ruffle
a strip of fabric gathered or pleated on one edge
ruminate
to go over in the mind repeatedly and often casually or slowly
ruminate:decidemuseful ;ruminative ;lamentable ;plaintive
rumple
FOLD, WRINKLE
run
an unbroken course of performances or showings,to be presented or
performed for a continuous period of time
rupture
breach of peace or concord; specifically :open hostility or war between
nations
ruse
a crafty stratagem; a subterfuge.
rustic
of, relating to, or suitable for the country:RURAL
rustle
make slight sounds like silk moving or being rubbed together
Word list - S
sabbatical
of or relating to the break or change from a normal routine
sabotage
damage done secretly to prevent an enemy, a competitor, etc succeeding,
esp by destroying his weapons or equipment and spoiling his plans
saccharine
overly or sickishly sweet
sacrifice
an act of offering to a deity something precious; especially :the killing of
a victim on an altar
sacrilege
a technical and not necessarily intrinsically outrageous violation (as
improper reception of a sacrament) of what is sacred because consecrated
to God
saddle
to place (an onerous responsibility) on a person or group
safeguard
a technical contrivance to prevent accident
sagacious
of keen and farsighted penetration and judgment:DISCERNING
salient
standing out conspicuously:PROMINENT; especially :of notable
significance
salmon
a large anadromous salmonid fish (Salmo salar) of the No. Atlantic noted
as a game and food fish
salubrious
favorable to or promoting health or well-being
salutary
producing a beneficial effect:REMEDIAL
salutation
an expression of greeting, goodwill, or courtesy by word, gesture, or
ceremony
salvage
to rescue or save especially from wreckage or ruin
salve
an unctuous adhesive substance for application to wounds or sores
salvo
a simultaneous discharge of two or more guns in military action or as a
salute
sanctify
to set apart to a sacred purpose or to religious use:CONSECRATE
sanctimonious
affecting piousness:hypocritically devout; also :indicative of affected
piousness
sanction
to give effective or authoritative approval or consent to
sanctuary
a place of refuge and protection
sand
to smooth or dress by grinding or rubbing with an abrasive (as sandpaper)
sanguine
CONFIDENT, OPTIMISTIC
sanitation
the promotion of hygiene and prevention of disease by maintenance of
sanitary conditions
sap
to weaken or exhaust the energy or vitality of
sapient
possessing or expressing great sagacity
sapling
a young tree; specifically:one not over four inches in diameter at breast
height
sarcastic
given to the use of sarcasm:CAUSTIC
sartorial
of or relating to a tailor or tailored clothes; broadly :of or relating to
clothes
satiated
to satisfy (as a need or desire) fully or to excess
satire
a literary work holding up human vices and follies to ridicule or scorn
saturated
full of moisture:made thoroughly wet
saturnine
of a gloomy or surly disposition
saunter
to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner:STROLL
savanna
A flat grassland of tropical or subtropical regions.
savory
pleasing to the sense of taste especially by reason of effective seasoning
savvy
practical know-how
scale
a.an instrument or machine for weighing b.an estimate of the amount of
sound lumber in logs or standing timber
scalpel
a small straight thin-bladed knife used especially in surgery
scan
to read or mark so as to show metrical structure
scanty
limited or less than sufficient in degree, quantity, or extent
scarce
deficient in quantity or number compared with the demand : not plentiful
or abundant
scare
to frighten especially suddenly:ALARM
scathing
bitterly severe
schism
a separation or division into
factionsschism:consensus::interruption:continuity
scintillating
brilliantly lively, stimulating, or witty
scion
DESCENDANT, CHILD
scission
a division or split in a group or union:schism
scissor
a cutting implement consisting of two blades joined by a swivel pin that
allows the cutting edges to be opened and closed
scoff
to show contempt by derisive acts or language
scooter
child's foot-operated vehicle consisting of a narrow footboard mounted
between two wheels tandem with an upright steering handle attached to
the front wheel
scorch
to dry or shrivel with or as if with intense heat:PARCH
score
the copy of a musical composition in written or printed notation
scorn
to treat with scorn:reject or dismiss as contemptible or unworthy
scour
to rub hard especially with a rough material for cleansing
scowl
to contract the brow in an expression of displeasure
scrap
discard;to abandon as no longer of enough worth to retain
scrappy
quarrelsome;having an aggressive and determined spirit
scrawl
to write or draw awkwardly, hastily, or carelessly
screw
a nail-shaped or rod-shaped piece with a spiral groove and a slotted or
recessed head designed to be inserted into material by rotating
scribble
to write hastily or carelessly without regard to legibility or form
script
the written text of a stage play, screenplay, or broadcast; specifically :the
one used in production or performance
scrupulous
having moral integrity:acting in strict regard for what is considered right
or proper
scrutable
capable of being deciphered:COMPREHENSIBLE
scrutiny
a searching study, inquiry, or inspection:EXAMINATION
scuff
to scratch, gouge, or wear away the surface of
sculptor
an artist who makes sculptures
scurrilous
using or given to coarse language
scurvy
disgustingly mean or contemptible:DESPICABLE
scutter
to move with a clattering, scurrying sound
scythe
an implement used for mowing (as grass) and composed of a long curving
blade fastened at an angle to a long handle
secluded
Removed or remote from others; solitary
secrete
to form and give off (a secretion)
sedate
to dose with sedatives
sedentary
not migratory:SETTLED
seduce
to persuade to disobedience or disloyalty
sedulous
involving or accomplished with careful perseverance
seemly
conventionally proper:DECOROUS
seminal
containing or contributing the seeds of later development
seminary
A school, especially a theological school for the training of priests,
ministers, or rabbis
sensation
a mental process (as seeing, hearing, or smelling) due to immediate
bodily stimulation often as distinguished from awareness of the
sensitive
highly responsive or susceptible
sentinel
SENTRY:GUARD, WATCH; especially :a soldier standing guard at a
point of passage (as a gate)
sepulchral
suited to or suggestive of a sepulchre:FUNEREAL, MORTUARY
sequela
A secondary consequence or result
sequester
to place (property) in custody especially in sequestration
seraph
one of the 6-winged angels standing in the presence of God
sere
being dried and withered
serendipity
the faculty or phenomenon of finding valuable or agreeable things not
sought for
serenity
the quality or state of being shining bright and steady
serfdom
a member of a servile feudal class bound to the soil and subject to the will
of his lord
sermon
a religious discourse delivered in public usually by a clergyman as a part
of a worship service
serpentine
Of or resembling a serpent, as in form or movement;
sinuousserpentine:directness::??
serrate
notched or toothed on the edge; specifically having marginal teeth
pointing forward or toward the apex
serried
crowded or pressed together:COMPACT
servile
meanly or cravenly submissive:ABJECT
severe
rigorous in restraint, punishment, or requirement:STRINGENT,
RESTRICTIVE
shackle
to deprive of freedom especially of action by means of restrictions or
handicaps:IMPEDE
shadow
to follow especially secretly:TRAIL
shaft
arrow or spear/smth long and narrow
shale
a fissile rock that is formed by the consolidation of clay, mud, or silt, has
a finely stratified or laminated structure, and is composed of minerals
essentially unaltered since deposition
sham
an imitation or counterfeit purporting to be genuine
shard
fragments of pottery vessels found on sites and in refuse deposits where
pottery-making peoples have lived
shelter
to constitute or provide a shelter for:PROTECT
shiftless
lacking in ambition or incentive:LAZY
shirk
to evade the performance of an obligation
shopworn
stale from excessive use or familiarity
shrewd
marked by clever discerning awareness and hardheaded acumen
shrink
to recoil instinctively
shrug
to raise or draw in the shoulders especially to express aloofness,
indifference, or uncertainty
shun
to avoid deliberately and especially habitually
shunt
to switch (as a train) from one track to another
shuttle
to cause to move or travel back and forth frequently
sidereal
of, relating to, or expressed in relation to stars or constellations:ASTRAL
signal
distinguished from the ordinary
simpleton
a person lacking in common sense
simulate
to give or assume the appearance or effect of often with the intent to
deceive:IMITATE
sin
an offense against religious or moral law
sincere
free of dissimulation:HONEST
sinecure
an office or position that requires little or no work and that usually
provides an income
sinew
solid resilient strength:POWER
singe
to burn superficially or lightly:SCORCH; especially :to remove the hair,
down, or fuzz from usually by passing rapidly over a flame
singular
distinguished by superiority:EXCEPTIONAL
sinister
singularly evil or productive of evil
sinuous
of a serpentine or wavy form:WINDING
sip
to drink in small quantities
siren
One of a group of sea nymphs who by their sweet singing lured mariners
to destruction on the rocks surrounding their island.
skeptic
a person disposed to skepticism especially regarding religion or religious
principles
sketchy
wanting in completeness, clearness, or substance:SLIGHT,
SUPERFICIAL
skimpy
deficient in supply or execution especially through skimping:SCANTY
skirt
to avoid especially because of difficulty or fear of controversy
skit
a brief burlesque or comic sketch included in a dramatic performance (as
a revue)
skittish
easily frightened:RESTIVE
slake
SATISFY, QUENCH
slant
to present so as to conform to a particular bias or appeal to a certain
audience
slate
a list of candidates for nomination or election
slew
a large number
slight
1. to treat with disdain or indifference 2. small of its kind or in
amount:SCANTY, MEAGER
slink
to go or move stealthily or furtively (as in fear or shame):STEAL
slippery
causing or tending to cause something to slide or fall
slipshod
wearing loose shoes or slippers
sloppy
wet so as to spatter easily:SLUSHY
sloth
disinclination to action or labor:INDOLENCE
slouch
to walk, stand, or sit with a gait or posture characterized by an ungainly
stooping of the head and shoulders or excessive relaxation of body
muscles:DROOP
sloven
untidy especially in personal appearance:slovenly
sluggard
an habitually lazy person
sluggish
averse to activity or exertion:INDOLENT; also :TORPID
slumber
to be in a torpid, slothful, or negligent state
slur
an insulting or disparaging remark or innuendo:ASPERSION
sly
lacking in straightforwardness and candor:DISSEMBLING
smarmy
Hypocritically, complacently, or effusively earnest; unctuous
smart
1. stylish or elegant in dress or appearance 2. a smarting pain; especially
:a stinging local pain
smattering
superficial piecemeal knowledge
smirk
to smile in an affected or smug manner:SIMPER
smother
to be overcome or killed through or as if through lack of air
smug
highly self-satisfied
smuggle
to convey or introduce surreptitiously
snare
to capture by or as if by use of a snare
snarl
to cause to become knotted and intertwined:TANGLE To growl viciously
while baring the teeth
sneer
to smile or laugh with facial contortions that express scorn or contempt
snob
one who has an offensive air of superiority in matters of knowledge or
taste
snub
to treat with contempt or neglect
soak
to lie immersed in liquid (as water):become saturated by or as if by
immersion
sober
marked by sedate or gravely or earnestly thoughtful character or
demeanor
sodden
heavy with or as if with moisture or water
solace
alleviation of grief or anxiety
solder
to unite or make whole by solder
solemn
marked by grave sedateness and earnest sobriety
solicitous
full of concern or fears:APPREHENSIVE
solidify
to make solid, compact, or hard
solitude
the quality or state of being alone or remote from society : SECLUSION
solvent
able to pay all legal debts
somber
of a dismal or depressing character:MELANCHOLY
somnolence
the quality or state of being drowsy:SLEEPINESS
sonata
an instrumental musical composition typically of three or four movements
in contrasting forms and keys
sonnet
a fixed verse form of Italian origin consisting of fourteen lines that are
typically five-foot iambics rhyming according to a prescribed scheme;
also :a poem in this pattern
soothe
to please by or as if by attention or concern:PLACATE,RELIEVE,
ALLEVIATE
sop
a conciliatory or propitiatory bribe, gift, or gesture
sophism
an argument apparently correct in form but actually invalid; especially
:such an argument used to deceive
sophistication
the process or result of becoming cultured, knowledgeable, or
disillusioned; especially :CULTIVATION, URBANITY
sophomoric
conceited and overconfident of knowledge but poorly informed and
immature
soporific
tending to dull awareness or alertness
sordid
marked by baseness or grossness:VILE
sound
SOLID, FIRM; also :STABLE
sparse
of few and scattered elements; especially :not thickly grown or settled
Spartan
marked by simplicity, frugality, or avoidance of luxury and comfort
spat
a brief petty quarrel or angry outburst
spate
a large number or amount
specialize
To pursue a special activity, occupation, or field of study
specious
having a false look of truth or genuineness:SOPHISTIC
speck
a very small amount:BIT
spectator
one who looks on or watches
spectrum
a continuum of color formed when a beam of white light is dispersed (as
by passage through a prism) so that its component wavelengths are
arranged in order
speculate
to meditate on or ponder a subject:REFLECT
spendthrift
a person who spends improvidently or wastefully
spent
drained of energy or effectiveness:EXHAUSTED
spindly
of a disproportionately tall or long and thin appearance that often suggests
physical weakness
spine
row of bones along the back of humans and some animals; backbone
spineless
having no spine; invertebrate
spiny
abounding with difficulties, obstacles, or annoyances:THORNY
spire
a tapering roof or analogous pyramidal construction surmounting a tower
spleen
feelings of anger or ill will often suppressed
splint
material or a device used to protect and immobilize a body part (as a
broken arm)
spoil
to pamper excessively:CODDLE
spoke
any of the small radiating bars inserted in the hub of a wheel to support
the rim
spontaneous
arising from a momentary impulse
spoof
A gentle satirical imitation; a light parody.
sporadic
occurring occasionally, singly, or in scattered instances
sprain
a sudden or violent twist or wrench of a joint with stretching or tearing of
ligaments
sprightly
marked by a gay lightness and vivacity:SPIRITED
spur
to incite to action or accelerated growth or development:STIMULATE
spurious
outwardly similar or corresponding to something without having its
genuine qualities:FALSE
spurn
to reject with disdain or contempt:SCORN
squabble
a noisy altercation or quarrel usually over trifles
squalid
marked by filthiness and degradation from neglect or poverty
squall
a short-lived commotion
squander
to spend extravagantly or foolishly:DISSIPATE
squelch
to completely suppress:QUELL
squint
looking or tending to look obliquely or askance (as with envy or disdain)
stagnant
not advancing or developing
staid
marked by settled sedateness and often prim self-restraint: SOBER,
GRAVE
stalemate
a drawn contest:DEADLOCK
stalk
to pursue by tracking stealthily
stalwart
marked by outstanding strength and vigor of body, mind, or spirit
stamina
strength; staying power
stammer
to make involuntary stops and repetitions in speaking:HALT
stanza
a division of a poem consisting of a series of lines arranged together in a
usually recurring pattern of meter and rhyme:STROPHE
stark
rigid in or as if in death
startle
to frighten or surprise suddenly and usually not seriously
static
characterized by a lack of movement, animation, or progression
stature
natural height (as of a person) in an upright position
status
relative rank in a hierarchy of prestige; especially :high prestige
steadfast
firmly fixed in place:IMMOVABLE
stealth
the act or action of proceeding furtively, secretly, or imperceptibly
steep
to saturate with or subject thoroughly to
stench
to emit a strong offensive odor:STINK
stentorian
extremely loud
sterile
free from living organisms and especially microorganisms
stickler
one who insists on exactness or completeness in the observance of
something
stiff
lacking in suppleness or responsiveness
stifle
to withhold from circulation or expression:REPRESS
stigma
a mark of shame or discredit:STAIN
stilted
POMPOUS, LOFTY
stingy
not generous or liberal:sparing or scant in giving or spending
stint
to be sparing or frugal
stipple
to engrave by means of dots and flicks
stipulate
To lay down as a condition of an agreement; require by contract.
stipulation
action of stipulating
stock
a store or supply accumulated; especially :the inventory of goods of a
merchant or manufacturer
stockade
an enclosure or pen made with posts and stakes
stodgy
BORING, DULL
stoic
not affected by or showing passion or feeling; especially :firmly
restraining response to pain or distress
stolid
having or expressing little or no sensibility:UNEMOTIONAL
stouthearted
having a stout heart or spirit:STUBBORN
straggle
to wander from the direct course or way:ROVE, STRAY
strait
a comparatively narrow passageway connecting two large bodies of water
b:a situation of perplexity or distress
stratify
to divide or arrange into classes, castes, or social strata
stray
to wander accidentally from a fixed or chosen route
strength
degree of potency of effect or of concentration
striate
to mark with striations or striae
stricture
an adverse criticism:CENSURE
stride
to move with or as if with long steps
strident
characterized by harsh, insistent, and discordant sound
strike
To form by stamping, printing, or punching:
stringent
marked by rigor, strictness, or severity especially with regard to rule or
standard
strip
to remove clothing, covering, or surface matter from
strut
1. to walk with a pompous and affected air 2. a structural piece designed
to resist pressure in the direction of its length
stubborn
unreasonably or perversely unyielding:MULISH
studio
the working place of a painter, sculptor, or photographer
stultify
to have a dulling or inhibiting effect on
stun
to make senseless, groggy, or dizzy by or as if by a blow:DAZE
stunt
to hinder the normal growth, development, or progress of
sturdy
marked by or reflecting physical strength or vigor
stygian
extremely dark, gloomy, or forbidding
stylus
an instrument for writing, marking, or incising
Word list - T
tacit
expressed or carried on without words or speech
taciturn
temperamentally disinclined to talk
tackle
an assemblage of ropes and pulleys arranged to gain mechanical advantage
for hoisting and pulling
tactile
perceptible by touch:TANGIBLE
tactless
marked by lack of a keen sense of what to do or say in order to maintain
good relations with others or avoid offense
tag
a cardboard, plastic, or metal marker used for identification or classification
taint
to contaminate morally:CORRUPT
talisman
charm
tame
lacking spirit, zest, interest, or the capacity to excite:INSIPID
tamper
to interfere so as to weaken or change for the worse
tangent
diverging from an original purpose of course:IRRELEVANT
tangible
capable of being perceived especially by the sense of touch:PALPABLE
tangy
having or suggestive of a tang
tantalize
to tease or torment by or as if by presenting something desirable to the view
but continually keeping it out of reach
tantamount
equivalent in value, significance, or effect
tantrum
a fit of bad temper
taper
progressively narrowed toward one end
tapestry
a heavy handwoven reversible textile used for hangings, curtains, and
upholstery and characterized by complicated pictorial designs
tardy
delayed beyond the expected or proper time:late
tarnish
something that tarnishes; especially a film of chemically altered material on
the surface of a metal (as silver)
tarpaulin
a piece of material (as durable plastic) used for protecting exposed objects
or areas
tasty
strikingly attractive or interesting
tatty
rather worn, frayed, or dilapidated:SHABBY
taunt
to reproach or challenge in a mocking or insulting manner:jeer at
taut
having no give or slack:tightly drawn
tawdry
cheap and gaudy in appearance or quality; also :IGNOBLE
taxing
onerous, wearing
teal
small wild duck living near rivers or lakes
tear
to move or act with violence, haste, or force
tease
to tantalize especially by arousing desire or curiosity without intending to
satisfy it
tedious
tiresome because of length or dullness:boring
teeter
to move unsteadily:wobble
telling
carrying great weight and producing a marked effect:effective, expressive
temerity
unreasonable or foolhardy contempt of danger or opposition:rashness,
recklessness
temperate
marked by moderation
tempestuous of, relating to, or resembling a tempest
temporize
avoid committing oneself; gain time
tenable
capable of being held, maintained, or defended:defensible, reasonable
tenacious
persistent in maintaining or adhering to something valued or habitual
tendentious marked by a tendency in favor of a particular point of view:biased
tender
offer; extend
tendinous
consisting of tendons:sinewy
tepid
moderately warm, lukewarm
terminus
either end of a transportation line or travel route; also :the station, town, or
city at such a place:terminal
terror
a state of intense fear
testator
a person who dies leaving a will or testament in force
testimony
a solemn declaration usually made orally by a witness under oath in
response to interrogation by a lawyer or authorized public official
testy
easily annoyed:irritable
tether
to fasten or restrain by
theatrical
marked by pretense or artificiality of emotion
theology
the study of religious faith, practice, and experience; especially : the study
of God and of God's relation to the world
therapeutic
of or relating to the treatment of disease or disorders by remedial agents or
methods
thorny
full of difficulties or controversial points:ticklish
threadbare
exhausted of interest or freshness
thrive
to grow vigorously:flourish
throng
to crowd together in great numbers
thwart
to oppose successfully:defeat the hopes or aspirations of
ticklish
touchy, oversensitive
tidy
neat and orderly in appearance or habits:well ordered and cared for
tiff
a petty quarrel
tightfisted
reluctant to part with money
tile
slab of baked clay or other material used in rows for covering roofs, walls,
floors, etc
timeworn
hackneyed, stale
timid
lacking in courage or self-confidence
timorous
of a timid disposition:fearful
tinge
to color with a slight shade or stain:tint
tinker
to repair, adjust, or work with something in an unskilled or experimental
manner:fiddle
tint
a variation of a color produced by adding white to it and characterized by a
low saturation with relatively high lightness
tirade
a protracted speech usually marked by intemperate, vituperative, or harshly
censorious language
toady
one who flatters in the hope of gaining favors:SYCOPHANT
tolerance
sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting
with one's own
tong
a secret society or fraternal organization especially of Chinese in the U.S.
formerly notorious for gang warfare
tonic
increasing or restoring physical or mental tone:refreshing
tonsorial
of or relating to a barber or the work of a barber
topsy-turvy being in utter confusion or disorder
torpid
sluggish in functioning or acting
torpor
a state of mental and motor inactivity with partial or total
insensibility:extreme sluggishness or stagnation of function
torrential
caused by or resulting from action of rapid streams
torrid
giving off intense heat:scorching
tortuous
marked by repeated twists, bends, or turns:winding
tourniquet
a device (as a bandage twisted tight with a stick) to check bleeding or blood
flow
tractable
capable of being easily led, taught, or controlled:docile
trait
a distinguishing quality (as of personal character): peculiarity
transcend
to rise above or go beyond the limits of , to triumph over the negative or
restrictive aspects of:overcome
transfigure
to give a new and typically exalted or spiritual appearance to:transform
outwardly and usually for the better
transgress
to go beyond limits set or prescribed by:violate
transient
passing especially quickly into and out of existence: transitory
transitory
tending to pass away:not persistent
translucent
permitting the passage of light:clear, transparent
transparent
easily detected or seen through:obvious
travail
painful labor
traverse
to go or travel across or over
travesty
a debased, distorted, or grossly inferior imitation
treacherous characterized by or manifesting treachery:perfidious
treasurer
an officer entrusted with the receipt, care, and disbursement of funds
treaty
an agreement or arrangement made by negotiation
tremendous notable by reason of extreme size, power, greatness, orexcellence
tremulous
such as is or might be caused by nervousness or shakiness
trenchant
vigorously effective and articulate
trepidation
timorous uncertain agitation:apprehension
trespass
to enter unlawfully upon the land of another
tribute
a payment by one ruler or nation to another in acknowledgment of
submission or as the price of protection; also :the tax levied for such a
payment
trickle
to issue or fall in drops
trite
hackneyed or boring from much use:not fresh or original
triumph
a victory or conquest by or as if by military force
trivial
of little worth or importance
trophy
something gained or given in victory or conquest especially when preserved
or mounted as a memorial
troupe
a company or group, especially of touring actors, singers, or dancers
truant
Idle, lazy, or neglectful. one who shirks duty; especially :one who stays out
of school without permission
truculent
feeling or displaying ferocity:cruel, savage
trudge
to walk or march steadily and usually laboriously
truncate
to shorten by or as if by cutting off
truss
A rigid framework, as of wooden beams or metal bars, designed to support
a structure, such as a roof.
tumult
disorderly agitation or milling about of a crowd usually with uproar and
confusion of voices:commotion
turbid
deficient in clarity or purity:foul, muddy
turbulent
causing unrest, violence, or disturbance
turgid
excessively embellished in style or language:bombastic, pompous
turmoil
a state or condition of extreme confusion, agitation, or commotion
turncoat
one who switches to an opposing side or party; specifically :traitor
turret
a little tower; specifically :an ornamental structure at an angle of a larger
structure
tutor
a person charged with the instruction and guidance of another
typo
an error (as of spelling) in typed or typeset material
Word list - U
ugly
offensive to the sight:HIDEOUS
unavailing
not availing:FUTILE, USELESS
uncanny
seeming to have a supernatural character or origin:EERIE,
MYSTERIOUS
uncouth
awkward and uncultivated in appearance, manner, or behavior
unctuous
smooth and greasy in texture or appearance
underdog
a loser or predicted loser in a struggle or contest
undermine
to weaken or ruin by degrees
underscore
line drawn under a word or line especially for emphasis or to indicate
intent to italicize
unexceptionable
not open to objection or criticism:beyond reproach:
UNIMPEACHABLE
unexceptional
not out of the ordinary:COMMONPLACE
unflappable
marked by assurance and self-control
ungainly
lacking in smoothness or dexterity:CLUMSY
unimpeachable
not impeachable:not to be called in question:not liable to
accusation:IRREPROACHABLE, BLAMELESS
unkempt
deficient in order or neatness
unlettered
lacking facility in reading and writing and ignorant of the knowledge to
be gained from books
unpalatable
not palatable
unpretentious
free from ostentation, elegance, or affectation:MODEST
unrequited
not requited:not reciprocated or returned in kind
unruly
not readily ruled, disciplined, or managed presumptuous : unruly
untenable
not able to be defended
untold
too great or numerous to count:INCALCULABLE, VAST
untoward
not favorable:ADVERSE, UNPROPITIOUS
untutored
untaught or untrained
unwitting
not knowing:UNAWARE
unwonted
not accustomed by experience
upbraid
to reproach severely:scold vehemently
uphold
to support against an opponent
uproar
a state of commotion, excitement, or violent disturbance
upset
to trouble mentally or emotionally:disturb the poise of
urbane
notably polite or finished in manner:POLISHED
urge
to present, advocate, or demand earnestly or pressingly
usurp
to take the place of by or as if by force:SUPPLANT
utter
to give public expression to:express in words
vaccinate
to inoculate (a person) with cowpox virus in order to produce immunity
to smallpox
Word list - V
vacillate
to sway through lack of equilibrium:FLUCTUATE, OSCILLATE
vacuous
marked by lack of ideas or intelligence:STUPID, INANE
vagary
an erratic, unpredictable, or extravagant manifestation, action, or notion
vagrant
one who has no established residence and wanders idly from place to place
without lawful or visible means of support
vague
not thinking or expressing one's thoughts clearly or precisely
valediction
an act of bidding farewell
valiant
possessing or acting with bravery or boldness:COURAGEOUS
valid
logically correct
vanquish
to defeat in a conflict or contest
vapid
lacking liveliness, tang, briskness, or force:FLAT, DULL
vaporize
to convert (as by the application of heat or by spraying) into vapor
variance
the fact, quality, or state of being variable or variant: DIFFERENCE,
VARIATION
varnish
to apply varnish to
vault
a room or compartment for the safekeeping of valuables
vaunt
to make a vain display of one's own worth or attainments:BRAG
veer
to change direction or course
vehement
marked by forceful energy:POWERFUL
venal
capable of being bought or obtained for money or other valuable
consideration:PURCHASABLE; especially :open to corrupt influence and
especially bribery:MERCENARY
vendor
one that sell especially as a hawker or peddler
veneer
a layer of wood of superior value or excellent grain to be glued to an
inferior wood
venerate
to regard with reverential respect or with admiring deference
vengeful
serving to gain vengeance
venial
of a kind that can be remitted:FORGIVABLE, PARDONABLE; also
:meriting no particular censure or notice:EXCUSABLE
venom
poisonous matter normally secreted by some animals (as snakes, scorpions,
or bees) and transmitted to prey or an enemy chiefly by biting or stinging
ventilate
to examine, discuss, or investigate freely and openly:EXPOSE
veracious
TRUTHFUL, HONEST
verbatim
being in or following the exact words:WORD-FOR-WORD
verbose
containing more words than necessary:WORDY
verdant
green with growing plants
verdict
the finding or decision of a jury on the matter submitted to it in trial
verify
to establish the truth, accuracy, or reality of
vernacular
The standard native language of a country or locality
versatile
having many uses or applications
versed
acquainted through study or experience; knowledgeable or skilled
versemonger
vertigo
a disordered state in which the individual or the individual's surroundings
seem to whirl dizzily
verve
the spirit and enthusiasm animating artistic composition or
performance:VIVACITY
vessel
a tube or canal (as an artery) in which a body fluid is contained and
conveyed or circulated
vestigial
a bodily part or organ that is small and degenerate or imperfectly developed
in comparison to one more fully developed in an earlier stage of the
individual, in a past generation, or in closely related forms
veteran
an old soldier of long service
veto
an authoritative prohibition:INTERDICTION
vex
to bring trouble, distress, or agitation to
viable
capable of living; especially :capable of surviving outside the mother's
womb without artificial support
vibrant
oscillating or pulsating rapidly
vicarious
performed or suffered by one person as a substitute for another or to the
benefit or advantage of another:SUBSTITUTIONARY
vicious
having the nature or quality of vice or immorality:DEPRAVED
vicissitude
change (esp. from good to bad); change of fortune
victimize
to subject to deception or fraud:CHEAT
vigilant
alertly watchful especially to avoid danger
vignette
a brief incident or scene (as in a play or movie)
vigor
active bodily or mental strength or force
vilify
to utter slanderous and abusive statements against:DEFAME
vim
robust energy and enthusiasm
vindicate
to free from allegation or blame
vindictive
disposed to seek revenge:VENGEFUL
violate
to do harm to the person or especially the chastity of; specifically :RAPE
virility
the quality or state of being virile:a:MANHOOD b:manly
vigor:MASCULINITY
virtuoso
an experimenter or investigator especially in the arts and
sciences:SAVANT
virtuous
morally excellent:RIGHTEOUS
virulent
marked by a rapid, severe, and malignant course
viscous
having a glutinous consistency:VISCID
visionary
incapable of being realized or achieved:UTOPIAN
vista
a distant view through or along an avenue or opening:PROSPECT
vitality
capacity to live and develop; also :physical or mental vigor especially when
highly developed
vitiate
to make faulty or defective:IMPAIR
vitrify
to convert into glass or a glassy substance by heat and fusion
vitriolic
bitterly scathing; caustic
vituperative uttering or given to censure:containing or characterized by verbal abuse
vivacious
lively in temper, conduct, or spirit:SPRIGHTLY
vivid
having the appearance of vigorous life or freshness:LIVELY
vociferous
marked by or given to vehement insistent outcry
vogue
popular acceptation or favor:POPULARITY
volatile
characterized by or subject to rapid or unexpected change
volition
an act of making a choice or decision; also :a choice or decision made
voluble
characterized by ready or rapid speech:GLIB, FLUENT
voluminous having or marked by great volume or bulk:LARGE also :FULL
voluptuous
given to or spent in enjoyments of luxury, pleasure, or sensual
gratifications
vomit
an act or instance of disgorging the contents of the stomach through the
mouth; also :the disgorged matter
voracious
excessively eager:INSATIABLE
votary
a devout or zealous worshiper
vouch
to summon into court to warrant or defend a title
vulgar
lacking in cultivation, perception, or taste:COARSE
Word list - W
waffle
to talk or write foolishly:BLATHER
wag
WIT, JOKER
wan
suggestive of poor health:SICKLY, PALLID
wane
to fall gradually from power, prosperity, or influence
want
grave and extreme poverty that deprives one of the necessities of life
wanton
playfully mean or cruel:MISCHIEVOUS
wardrobe
a room or closet where clothes are kept:CLOTHESPRESS
warmonger
one who urges or attempts to stir up war:JINGO
warp
to turn or twist out of or as if out of shape; especially :to twist or bend out
of a plane
warrant
to guarantee to a person good title to and undisturbed possession of (as an
estate)
wary
marked by keen caution, cunning, and watchful prudence especially in
detecting and escaping danger
wastrel
one who dissipates resources foolishly and self-indulgently:PROFLIGATE
waterproof
impervious to water; especially :covered or treated with a material
watershed
a crucial dividing point, line, or factor:TURNING POINT
wax
1. to treat or rub with wax usually for polishing or stiffening 2. to increase
in phase or intensity ,used chiefly of the moon, other satellites, and inferior
planets
waylay
to lie in wait for or attack from ambush
weld
to unite (metallic parts) by heating and allowing the metals to flow together
or by hammering or compressing with or without previous heating
welter
to be in turmoil
wheedle
to influence or entice by soft words or flattery
whet
to make keen or more acute:EXCITE, STIMULATE
whiff
a quick puff or slight gust especially of air, odor, gas, smoke, or spray
whimsical
resulting from or characterized by whim or caprice; especially :lightly
fanciful
wholesome
promoting health or well-being of mind or spirit
wicked
morally very bad:EVIL
wily
full of wiles:CRAFTY
wince
to shrink back involuntarily (as from pain):FLINCH
windbag
an exhaustively talkative person
windy
VERBOSE, BOMBASTIC
winnow
to remove (as chaff) by a current of air
winsome
generally pleasing and engaging often because of a childlike charm and
innocence
wit
mental capability and resourcefulness:INGENUITY
witch
one that is credited with usually malignant supernatural powers; especially
:a woman practicing usually black witchcraft often with the aid of a devil
or familiar:SORCERESS
withdraw
to remove (money) from a place of deposit;to become socially or
emotionally detached
wither
to become dry and sapless; especially :to shrivel from or as if from loss of
bodily moisture
withhold
to refrain from granting, giving, or allowing
wizen
to become dry, shrunken, and wrinkled often as a result of aging or of
failing vitality
wobble
to move or proceed with an irregular rocking or staggering motion or
unsteadily and clumsily from side to side TREMBLE, QUAVER
woo
to sue for the affection of and usually marriage with:COURT
wordsmith
a person who works with words; especially :a skillful writer
worldly
of, relating to, or devoted to this world and its pursuits rather than to
religion or spiritual affairs
worship
extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem
wrangler
a ranch hand who takes care of the saddle horses; broadly :COWBOY
wretched
(adj.) miserable or unhappy; causing distress
writ
a formal written document; specifically :a legal instrument in epistolary
form issued under seal in the name of the English monarch
wry
cleverly and often ironically or grimly humorous also having a bent or
twisted shape or condition
Word list - Y
yawn
to open the mouth wide usually as an involuntary reaction to fatigue or
boredom
yield
to surrender or relinquish to the physical control of another:hand over
possession of
yoke
to join as if by a yoke
Word list - Z
zeal
eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something:FERVOR
zest
keen enjoyment:RELISH, GUSTO
zigzag
one of a series of short sharp turns, angles, or alterations in a course; also
:something having the form or character of such a series
zone
to arrange in or mark off into zones; specifically :to partition (a city,
borough, or township) by ordinance into sections reserved for different
purposes (as residence or business
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