Shared Flashcard Set

Details

Title

GRE Vocab Master 1-15

Description

Shiggity

Total Cards

1781

Subject

English

Level

Graduate

Created

12/18/2008

Click here to study/print these flashcards.

Create your own flash cards! Sign up here.

Additional English Flashcards

Cards Return to Set Details

Term

abase

Definition

lower; degrade; humiliate

Term

abash

Definition

embarras

Term

abjure

Definition

renounce upon oath

Term

ablution

Definition

washing

Term

abnegation

Definition

renunciation; self sacrifice

Term

abominate

Definition

loathe; hate

Term

abortive

Definition

unsuccessful, fruitless

Term

abrogate

Definition

abolish

Term

abscission

Definition

removal by cutting off; separation

Term

abut

Definition

border upon; adjoin

Term

abysmal

Definition

bottomless

Term

accede

Definition

agree

Term

acclivity

Definition

sharp upslope of a hill

Term

accord

Definition

agreement

Term

accost

Definition

approach and speak first to a person

Term

accoutre

Definition

to equip

Term

accretion

Definition

growth; increase

Term

acidulous

Definition

slightly sour; sharp; caustic

Term

acme

Definition

peak; pinnacle; highest point

Term

acrid

Definition

sharp; bitterly pungent

Term

acrimonious

Definition

bitter in words or manner

Term

acrophobia

Definition

fear of heights

Term

actuarial

Definition

calculating; pertaining to insurance statistics

Term

actuate

Definition

motivate

Term

acuity

Definition

sharpness

Term

acute

Definition

quickly perceptive; keen; brief and severe

Term

acute

Definition

quickly perceptive; keen; brief and severe

Term

addle

Definition

muddle; drive crazy; become rotten

Term

adherent

Definition

supporter; follower

Term

adjunct

Definition

something (generally nonessential or inferior) added on or attached

Term

adjuration

Definition

solemn urging

Term

adjutant

Definition

staff officer assisting the commander; assistant

Term

admonish

Definition

warn; reprove

Term

adventitious

Definition

accidental; causal

Term

advert

Definition

refer to

Term

aegis

Definition

shield

Term

aerie

Definition

nest of a large bird of prey

Term

affable

Definition

easily approachable; warmly friendly

Term

affected

Definition

artificial; pretended; assumed in order to impress

Term

affidavit

Definition

written statement made under oath

Term

affinity

Definition

kinship

Term

affront

Definition

insult; offense; intentional act of disrespect

Term

agape

Definition

openmouthed

Term

agglomeration

Definition

collection; heap

Term

agog

Definition

highly excited; intensely curious

Term

alcove

Definition

nook; recess

Term

ailmentary

Definition

supplying nourishment

Term

allege

Definition

state without proof

Term

allegiance

Definition

loyalty

Term

alliteration

Definition

repetition of beggining sound in poetry

Term

alluvial

Definition

pertaining to soil deposits left by running water

Term

aloft

Definition

upward

Term

amazon

Definition

female warrior

Term

ambience

Definition

environment; atomosphere

Term

amble

Definition

moving at an easy pace

Term

ambrosia

Definition

food of the gods

Term

ambulatory

Definition

able to walk; not bedridden

Term

amity

Definition

friendship

Term

amnesty

Definition

pardon

Term

ampitheater

Definition

oval building with tiers of seats

Term

amok/amuck

Definition

state of rage

Term

anathema

Definition

solemn curse; someone or something regarded as a curse

Term

ancillary

Definition

serving as an aid or accessory; auxiliary

Term

anemia

Definition

condition in which blood lacks red corpusclesz

Term

anesthetic

Definition

substance that removes sensation with or without loss of consciousness

Term

animadversion

Definition

crtitical remark

Term

animus

Definition

hostile feeling or intent

Term

annals

Definition

records; history

Term

anneal

Definition

reduce brittleness and improve toughness by heating or cooling

Term

annex

Definition

attach; take possession of

Term

annotate

Definition

comment; make explanatory notes

Term

annuity

Definition

yearly allowance

Term

anodyne

Definition

drug that relieves pain; opiate

Term

antecede

Definition

precede

Term

antecedents

Definition

preceding events or circumstances that influence what comes later; ancestors or early background

Term

antediluvian

Definition

antiquated; extremely ancient

Term

anthem

Definition

song of praise or patriotism

Term

anthology

Definition

book of literary selections by various authors

Term

anthropoid

Definition

manlike

Term

anthropologist

Definition

student of the history and science of humankind

Term

anthropomorphic

Definition

having human form or characteristics

Term

antic

Definition

extravagantly odd

Term

antiseptic

Definition

substance that prevents infection

Term

ape

Definition

imitate or mimic

Term

apex

Definition

tip; summit; climax

Term

aphasia

Definition

loss of speech due to injury or illness

Term

aphorism

Definition

pithy maxim or saying

Term

apiary

Definition

a place where bees are kept

Term

aplomb

Definition

poise; assurance

Term

apocryphal

Definition

spurious; not authentic; invented rather than true

Term

apogee

Definition

highest point

Term

apothecary

Definition

druggist

Term

apothegm

Definition

pithy, compact saying

Term

apotheosis

Definition

elevation to godhood; an ideal example of something

Term

apparition

Definition

ghost; phantom

Term

appellation

Definition

name; title

Term

application

Definition

diligent attention

Term

apposite

Definition

appropriate; fitting

Term

apprehend

Definition

arrest (a criminal; dread; perceive

Term

appurtenances

Definition

subordinate possessions

Term

apropos

Definition

to the point and timely

Term

arabesque

Definition

style of decoration involving intertwined plants and abstract curves; ballet position with one leg supporting the weight of the boddy, while the other leg is extended in back

Term

aquiline

Definition

curved, hooked

Term

arable

Definition

fit for growing crops

Term

arboretum

Definition

place where different varieties of trees and shrubs are studied and exhibited

Term

arcade

Definition

a covered passageway, usually lined with shops

Term

arcane

Definition

secret; mysterious; known only to the initiated

Term

archetype

Definition

prototype; primitive pattern

Term

aria

Definition

operatic solo

Term

armada

Definition

fleet of warships

Term

arraign

Definition

charge in court; indict

Term

array

Definition

marshal; draw up in order

Term

array

Definition

clothe; adorn

Term

arrears

Definition

being in debt

Term

arroyo

Definition

gully

Term

artifact

Definition

object made by human beings

Term

artifice

Definition

deception; trickery

Term

artisan

Definition

manually skilled worker; craftsman, as opposed to artist

Term

artless

Definition

without guile; open and honest

Term

ascendancy

Definition

controlling influence

Term

asceptic

Definition

preventing infection; having a cleansing effect

Term

ashen

Definition

ash colored; deadly pale

Term

askance

Definition

with a sideways or indirect look

Term

asperity

Definition

sharpness (of temper)

Term

aspersion

Definition

slanderous remark

Term

assay

Definition

analyze; evaluate

Term

assimilate

Definition

absorb; cause to become homogenous

Term

astigmatism

Definition

eye defect that prevents proper focus

Term

asunder

Definition

into parts; apart

Term

asylum

Definition

place of refuge or shelter; protection

Term

atavism

Definition

resemblance to remote ancestors rather than to parents; reversion to an earlier type; throwback

Term

attrition

Definition

gradual decrease in numbers; reduction in the work force without firing employees; wearing way of opposition by means of harrassment

Term

augury

Definition

omen; prophecy

Term

aureole

Definition

sun's corona; halo

Term

auroral

Definition

pertaining to the aurora borealis

Term

auspicious

Definition

favoring success

Term

automaton

Definition

mechanism that imitates actions of humans

Term

avert

Definition

prevent; turn away

Term

aviary

Definition

enclosure for birds

Term

avocation

Definition

secondary or minor occupation

Term

avow

Definition

declare openly

Term

avuncular

Definition

like an uncle

Term

awl

Definition

pointed tool used for piercing

Term

azure

Definition

sky blue

Term

bacchanalian

Definition

drunken

Term

badinage

Definition

teasing conversation

Term

baleful

Definition

threatening; menacing; sinister; forshadowing evil

Term

balk

Definition

stop short, as if faced with an obstacle, and refuse to continue

Term

balk

Definition

foil

Term

ballast

Definition

heavy substance used to add stability or weight

Term

balmy

Definition

mild, fragrant

Term

bandy

Definition

discuss lightly or glibly; exchange words heatedly

Term

baneful

Definition

destructive; causing ruin or death

Term

barb

Definition

sharp projection from fishhook or other object; openly cutting remark

Term

bard

Definition

poet

Term

baroque

Definition

highly ornate

Term

barrage

Definition

barrier laid down by artillery fire; overwhelming profusion

Term

barister

Definition

counselor-at-law

Term

bask

Definition

luxuriate; take pleasure in warmth

Term

bastion

Definition

stronghold; something seen as a source of protection

Term

bate

Definition

let down; restrain

Term

bauble

Definition

trinket; trifle

Term

bawdy

Definition

indecent; obscene

Term

beatific

Definition

showing or producing joy; blissful

Term

beatify

Definition

bless or sanctify; proclaim someone dead to be one of the blessed

Term

beatitude

Definition

blessedness; state of bliss

Term

bedraggle

Definition

wet thoroughly

Term

belabor

Definition

explain or go over excessively or to a ridiculous degree; assail verbally

Term

belated

Definition

delayed

Term

beleaguer

Definition

besiege or attack; harass

Term

bemused

Definition

confused; lost in thought; preoccupied

Term

benediction

Definition

blessing

Term

bension

Definition

blessing

Term

bequeath

Definition

to leave to someone by means of a will; hand down

Term

bereavement

Definition

state of being deprived of something valuable or beloved

Term

bereft

Definition

deprived of; lacking

Term

beseech

Definition

beg; plead with

Term

beset

Definition

harass or trouble; hem in

Term

besmirch

Definition

soil, defile

Term

betoken

Definition

signify; indicate

Term

betroth

Definition

become engaged to marry

Term

bifurcated

Definition

divided into two branches; forked

Term

bilious

Definition

suffering from a liver complaint; peevishly ill humored

Term

bilk

Definition

swindle; cheat

Term

bivouac

Definition

temporary encampment

Term

blanch

Definition

bleach; whiten

Term

bland

Definition

soothing or mild; agreeable

Term

blandish

Definition

cajole; coax with flattery

Term

blandishment

Definition

flattery

Term

bleak

Definition

cold or cheerless

Term

blighted

Definition

suffering from a disease; destroyed

Term

blithe

Definition

carefree and unconcerned; cheerful and gay

Term

blowhard

Definition

talkative boaster

Term

bluff

Definition

rough but good-natured

Term

bohemian

Definition

unconventional (in an artistic way)

Term

boon

Definition

blessing; benefit

Term

bouillon

Definition

clear beef soup

Term

bourgeois

Definition

middle class; selfishly materialistic; dully conventional

Term

bovine

Definition

cowlike; placid and dull

Term

bowlderize

Definition

expurgate

Term

brackish

Definition

somewhat saline

Term

braggadocio

Definition

boasting

Term

brazen

Definition

insolent

Term

brindled

Definition

tawny or grayish with streaks or spots

Term

brittle

Definition

easily broken; difficult

Term

brocade

Definition

rich, figured fabric

Term

brusque

Definition

blunt; abrupt

Term

buffet

Definition

slap; batter; knock about

Term

bugaboo

Definition

bugbear; object of baseless terror

Term

bulwark

Definition

earthwork or other strong defense; person who defends

Term

bureaucracy

Definition

overregulated administrative system marked by red tape

Term

burlesque

Definition

give an imitation that ridicules

Term

cabal

Definition

small group of persons secretly united to promote their own interests

Term

cache

Definition

hiding place

Term

cadaverous

Definition

like a corpse; pale

Term

cadge

Definition

beg; mooch; panhandle

Term

callow

Definition

youthful; immature; inexperienced

Term

calorific

Definition

heat-producing

Term

calumny

Definition

malicious misrepresentation; slander

Term

cameo

Definition

shell or jewel carved in relief; star's special appearence in a minor role in a film

Term

canard

Definition

false or unfounded story; fabricated report

Term

canker

Definition

an ulcerous sore, an evil

Term

canny

Definition

shrewd; thrifty

Term

cant

Definition

insincere expressions of piety; jargon of thieves

Term

cantankerous

Definition

ill-humored; irritable

Term

cantata

Definition

story set to music, to be sung by a chorus

Term

canto

Definition

division of a long poem

Term

capacious

Definition

spacious

Term

capillary

Definition

having a very fine bore

Term

capitulate

Definition

surrender

Term

caprice

Definition

whim

Term

captious

Definition

faultfinding

Term

carafe

Definition

glass water bottle; decanter

Term

carapace

Definition

shell covering the back (of a turtle, crab etc)

Term

caricature

Definition

distortion, burlesque

Term

carillon

Definition

a set of bells capable of being played

Term

carousal

Definition

drunken revel

Term

carping

Definition

petty criticism; fault-finding

Term

carrion

Definition

rotting flesh of a dead body

Term

cartographer

Definition

map-maker

Term

cataract

Definition

great waterfall; eye abnormality

Term

catcall

Definition

shout of disapproval; boo

Term

catechism

Definition

book for religious instruction; instruction by question and answer

Term

catharsis

Definition

purging or cleansing of any passage of the body

Term

cathartic

Definition

purgative

Term

catholic

Definition

universal; wide ranging liberal

Term

caucus

Definition

private meeting of members of a party to select officers or determine policy

Term

caulk

Definition

to make watertight

Term

cavalcade

Definition

procession; parade

Term

cavalier

Definition

casual and offhand; arrogant

Term

cavil

Definition

make frivilous objections

Term

celerity

Definition

speed; rapidity

Term

censorious

Definition

critical

Term

censure

Definition

blame; criticize

Term

centaur

Definition

a mythical figure, half man half horse

Term

centripetal

Definition

tending toward the center

Term

centurion

Definition

roman army officer

Term

cerebration

Definition

thought

Term

cession

Definition

yielding (something) to another; ceding

Term

chafe

Definition

warm by rubbing; make sore by rubbing

Term

chaff

Definition

worthless products of an endeavor

Term

chaffing

Definition

bantering; joking

Term

charisma

Definition

divine gift; great popular charm or appeal

Term

chary

Definition

cautious; sparing or restrained about giving

Term

chase

Definition

ornament a metal surface by indenting

Term

chasten

Definition

correct by punishment or scolding; restrain

Term

chastened

Definition

humbled; subdued; rebuked

Term

checkered

Definition

marked by changes in fortune

Term

chide

Definition

scold

Term

chimerical

Definition

fantastically improbable; highly unrealistic; imaginative

Term

chisel

Definition

swindle or cheat; cut with a chisel

Term

choleric

Definition

hot tempered

Term

chortle

Definition

chuckle with delight

Term

chronic

Definition

long-established, as a disease

Term

churlish

Definition

boorish; rude

Term

ciliated

Definition

having minute hairs

Term

cipher

Definition

nonentity; worthless person or thing

Term

circlet

Definition

small ring; band

Term

circuitous

Definition

roundabout

Term

circumlocution

Definition

unnecessarily wordy and indirect speech; evasive language

Term

circumscribe

Definition

limit narrowly; confine or restrict; define

Term

circumspect

Definition

prudent, cautious

Term

circumvent

Definition

outwit; baffle

Term

cistern

Definition

reservoir or water tank

Term

citadel

Definition

fortress

Term

clamber

Definition

climb by crawling

Term

clangor

Definition

loud, resounding noise

Term

clapper

Definition

striker (tongue) of a bell

Term

clarion

Definition

shrill, trumpetlike sound

Term

cleave

Definition

split or sever; cling to; remain faithful to

Term

cleft

Definition

split

Term

clime

Definition

region; climate

Term

cloister

Definition

monastery or convent

Term

cloying

Definition

distasteful (because excessive); excessively sweet or sentimental

Term

codicil

Definition

supplement to the body of a will

Term

coeval

Definition

living at the same time as; contemporary

Term

cogitate

Definition

think over

Term

cognate

Definition

related linguistically; allied by blood; similar or akin in nature

Term

coiffure

Definition

hairstyle

Term

colander

Definition

utensil with perforated bottom used for straining

Term

collate

Definition

examine in order to verify authenticity; arrange in order

Term

collation

Definition

a light meal

Term

colloquy

Definition

informal discussion

Term

collusion

Definition

conspiring in a fraudulent scheme

Term

comely

Definition

attractive; agreeable

Term

comeuppance

Definition

rebuke; deserts

Term

comity

Definition

courtesy; civility

Term

commiserate

Definition

feel or express pity or sympathy for

Term

compact

Definition

agreement; contract

Term

comport

Definition

bear one's self; behave

Term

compunction

Definition

remorse

Term

compute

Definition

reckon; calculate

Term

concatenate

Definition

link as in a chain

Term

conceit

Definition

vanity or self-love

Term

concerted

Definition

mutually agreed on; done together

Term

conclave

Definition

private meeting

Term

concomitant

Definition

that which accompanies

Term

concord

Definition

harmony

Term

condign

Definition

appropriate; deserved

Term

conflagaration

Definition

great fire

Term

conflate

Definition

meld or fuse; confuse; combine into one

Term

confluence

Definition

flowing together; crowd

Term

congeal

Definition

freeze;coagulate

Term

congenital

Definition

existing at birth

Term

conifer

Definition

pine tree; cone-bearing tree

Term

conjecture

Definition

infer on the basis of insufficient data; surmise; guess

Term

conjugal

Definition

pertaining to marriage

Term

conjure

Definition

summon a devil; practice magic; imagine or invent

Term

connivance

Definition

pretense of ignorance of something wrong; assistance; permission to offend

Term

connubial

Definition

pertaining to marriage or the matrimonial state

Term

consanguinity

Definition

kinship

Term

consecrate

Definition

dedicate; sanctify

Term

conservatory

Definition

school of the fine arts (especially music or drama)

Term

consign

Definition

deliver officially; entrust; set apart

Term

consolidation

Definition

unification; process of becoming firmer or stronger

Term

consort

Definition

associate with

Term

consort

Definition

husband or wife

Term

constituent

Definition

supporter

Term

constraint

Definition

compulsion; repression of feelings

Term

construe

Definition

explain; interpret

Term

consummate

Definition

wholly without flaw; supremely skilled; complete and utter

Term

contagion

Definition

infection

Term

continence

Definition

self-restraint;sexual chastity

Term

contingent

Definition

a group that makes up part of a gathering

Term

contraband

Definition

illegal trade; smuggling; smuggled goods

Term

contravene

Definition

contradict; oppose; infringe on or transgress

Term

controvert

Definition

oppose with arguments; attempt to refute; contradict

Term

contumacious

Definition

disobedient; resisting authority

Term

contusion

Definition

bruise

Term

convene

Definition

assemble

Term

conversant

Definition

familiar with

Term

conveyance

Definition

vehicle; transfer

Term

convivial

Definition

festive; gay; characterized by joviality

Term

convoke

Definition

call together

Term

coquette

Definition

flirt

Term

cordial

Definition

gracious; heartfelt

Term

cordon

Definition

extended line of men or fortifications to prevent access or egress

Term

cornice

Definition

projecting molding on a building

Term

cornucopia

Definition

horn overflowing with fruit and grain; symbol of abundance

Term

corpulent

Definition

very fat

Term

corrugated

Definition

wrinkled; ridged

Term

coterie

Definition

group that meets socially; select circle

Term

countenance

Definition

approve; tolerate

Term

countenance

Definition

face

Term

countermand

Definition

cancel; revoke

Term

cow

Definition

terrorize; intimidate

Term

cozen

Definition

cheat; hoodwink; swindle

Term

crabbed

Definition

sour; peevish

Term

crescendo

Definition

increase in the volume or intensity; climax

Term

cringe

Definition

shrink back, as if in fear

Term

crone

Definition

hag

Term

crotchety

Definition

eccentric; whimsical

Term

crypt

Definition

secret recess or vault usually used for burial

Term

cubicle

Definition

small chamber used for sleeping

Term

cull

Definition

pick out; reject

Term

culvert

Definition

artificial channel for water

Term

cupidity

Definition

greed

Term

curator

Definition

superintendent; manager

Term

curmudgeon

Definition

churlish, miserly individual

Term

cynosure

Definition

object of general attention

Term

dais

Definition

raised platform for guests of honor

Term

dally

Definition

trifle with; procrastinate

Term

dank

Definition

damp

Term

dapper

Definition

neat and trim

Term

dappled

Definition

spotted

Term

daub

Definition

smear (as with paint)

Term

dawdle

Definition

loiter; waste time

Term

deadlock

Definition

standstill; stalemate

Term

deadpan

Definition

wooden; impassive

Term

debonair

Definition

urbane and suave; amiable; cheerful and carefree

Term

debutante

Definition

young woman making formal entrance into society

Term

decadence

Definition

decay

Term

deciduous

Definition

falling off, as of leaves

Term

declivity

Definition

downward slope

Term

decollete

Definition

having a low-cut neckline

Term

defer

Definition

give in respectfully; submit

Term

definitive

Definition

most reliable or complete

Term

defoliate

Definition

destroy leaves

Term

defer

Definition

to give in respectfully; dubmit

Term

definitive

Definition

most reliable or complete

Term

defoliate

Definition

destroy leaves

Term

defray

Definition

provide for the payment of

Term

defrock

Definition

to strip a priest or minister of church authority

Term

deify

Definition

turn into a god; idolize

Term

deign

Definition

condescend; stoop

Term

delta

Definition

flat plain of mud or sand between branches of a river

Term

deluge

Definition

flood; rush

Term

delusive

Definition

deceptive; raising vain hopes

Term

demagogue

Definition

person who appeals to people's prejudice; false leader

Term

demoniac

Definition

fiendish

Term

demotic

Definition

pertaining to the people

Term

demur

Definition

objection; protest

Term

demure

Definition

grave; serious; coy

Term

denigrate

Definition

blacken

Term

denizen

Definition

inhabitant or resident; regular visitor

Term

denouement

Definition

outcome; final development of the plot of a play or other literary work

Term

deplore

Definition

regret

Term

deposition

Definition

testimony under oath

Term

depravity

Definition

extreme corruption; wickedness

Term

deprecate

Definition

express disapproval of; protest against; belittle

Term

derange

Definition

make insane; disarrange

Term

derelict

Definition

abandoned; negligent

Term

derivative

Definition

unoriginal; obtained from another source

Term

descry

Definition

catch sight of

Term

desecrate

Definition

profane; violate the sanctity of

Term

desolate

Definition

unpopulated; joyless

Term

despoil

Definition

strip of valuables; rob

Term

despondent

Definition

depressed; gloomy

Term

desuetude

Definition

state of disuse

Term

devolve

Definition

be transferred to another; delegate to another; gradually worsen

Term

dexterous

Definition

skillful

Term

diadem

Definition

crown

Term

diaphanous

Definition

sheer; transparant

Term

dictum

Definition

authoritative and weighty statement; saying; maxim

Term

diffuse

Definition

wordy; rambling; spread out

Term

dilatory

Definition

tending to delay; intentionally delaying

Term

din

Definition

continued loud noise

Term

dinghy

Definition

small boat

Term

dint

Definition

means; effort

Term

disaffected

Definition

disloyal

Term

disburse

Definition

pay out

Term

disconsolate

Definition

sad

Term

discursive

Definition

digressing; rambling

Term

disinter

Definition

dig up; unearth

Term

disjunction

Definition

act or state of separation; disunity

Term

dispatch

Definition

speediness; prompt execution; message sent with all due speed

Term

disport

Definition

amuse

Term

disputatious

Definition

argumentative; fond of arguing

Term

disquietude

Definition

uneasiness; anxiety

Term

disquisition

Definition

a formal systematic inquiry; an explanation of the results of a formal inquiry

Term

dissertation

Definition

formal essay

Term

dissimulate

Definition

pretend; conceal by feigning

Term

distrait

Definition

inattentive; distracted; often by anxiety

Term

diurnal

Definition

daily

Term

diva

Definition

operatic singer; prima donna

Term

divest

Definition

strip; deprive

Term

divine

Definition

perceive intuitively; foresee the future

Term

docket

Definition

program as for trial; book where such entries are made

Term

doctrinaire

Definition

unable to compromise about points of doctrine; dogmatic; unyielding

Term

doddering

Definition

shaky; infirm from old age

Term

doff

Definition

take off

Term

doggerel

Definition

poor verse

Term

doleful

Definition

mournful; causing sadness

Term

dolorous

Definition

sorrowful

Term

dolt

Definition

stupid person; dunce

Term

dormer

Definition

window projecting from roof

Term

dotage

Definition

senility

Term

dote

Definition

be excessively fond of; show signs of mental decline

Term

dour

Definition

sullen; stubborn

Term

dowdy

Definition

slovenly; untidy

Term

draconian

Definition

extremely severe

Term

dregs

Definition

sediment; worthless residue

Term

drivel

Definition

nonsense; foolishness

Term

droll

Definition

queer and amusing

Term

drone

Definition

idle person; male bee

Term

dross

Definition

waste matter; worthless impurities

Term

ductile

Definition

malleable; flexible; pliable

Term

dulcet

Definition

sweet sounding

Term

duplicity

Definition

double-dealing; hypocrisy

Term

duress

Definition

forcible restraint, especially unlawfully

Term

dynamic

Definition

energetic; vigorously active

Term

dyspeptic

Definition

suffering from indigestion

Term

earthy

Definition

unrefined; coarse

Term

eddy

Definition

swirling current of water, air, etc

Term

edict

Definition

decree; official command

Term

edify

Definition

instruct; correct morally

Term

effervescence

Definition

inner excitement or exuberance; bubbling from fermentation or carbonation

Term

effete

Definition

lacking vigor; worn out; sterile

Term

effluvium

Definition

noxious smell

Term

effusion

Definition

pouring forth

Term

egoism

Definition

excessive interest in one's self; belief that one should be interested in one's self rather than in others

Term

egregious

Definition

notorious; conspicuously bad or shocking

Term

egress

Definition

exit

Term

ejaculation

Definition

exclamation

Term

ellipsis

Definition

omission of words from a text

Term

elliptical

Definition

oval; ambiguous

Term

elysian

Definition

relating to paradise; blissful

Term

emaciated

Definition

thin and wasted

Term

embezzlement

Definition

stealing

Term

embroil

Definition

throw into confusion; involve in strife; entangle

Term

emend

Definition

correct, usually a text

Term

emendation

Definition

correction of errors; improvement

Term

emetic

Definition

substance causing vomiting

Term

eminent

Definition

high; lofty

Term

emissary

Definition

agent; messenger

Term

emolument

Definition

salary; compensation

Term

enclave

Definition

territory enclosed within an alien land

Term

encomiastic

Definition

praising; eulogistic

Term

encomium

Definition

high praise; eulogy

Term

encumber

Definition

burden

Term

endue

Definition

privide with some quality; endow

Term

engage

Definition

attract; hire; pledge oneself; confront

Term

enjoin

Definition

command; order; forbid

Term

ensconce

Definition

settle comfortably

Term

entomology

Definition

study of insects

Term

entreat

Definition

plead; ask earnestly

Term

entree

Definition

entrance; a way in

Term

environ

Definition

enclose; surround

Term

eon

Definition

a long period of time; an age

Term

epaulet

Definition

ornament worn on the shoulder

Term

epicure

Definition

connoisseur of food and drink

Term

epigram

Definition

witty thought or saying, usually short

Term

episodic

Definition

loosely connected

Term

epistemologist

Definition

philosopher who studies the nature of knowledge

Term

epitaph

Definition

inscription in memory of a dead person

Term

epithet

Definition

word or phrase characteristically used to describe a person or thing

Term

epitome

Definition

perfect exmple or embodiment

Term

equable

Definition

tranquil; steady; uniform

Term

equine

Definition

resembling a horse

Term

equinox

Definition

period of equal days and nights; the beginning of spring and autumn

Term

equipoise

Definition

balance; balancing force; equilibrium

Term

errant

Definition

wandering

Term

escapade

Definition

prank; flighty conduct

Term

estimable

Definition

worthy of esteem; admirable

Term

ethereal

Definition

light; heavenly; unusually refined

Term

ethnology

Definition

study of humankind

Term

ethos

Definition

underlying character of a culture, group, etc

Term

eugenic

Definition

pertaining to the improvement of race

Term

eulogistic

Definition

praising

Term

eulogy

Definition

expression of praise, often on the occasion of someone's death

Term

euphemism

Definition

mild expression in place of an unpleasant one

Term

euphony

Definition

sweet sound

Term

evince

Definition

show clearly

Term

ewe

Definition

female sheep

Term

exceptionable

Definition

objectionable

Term

excoriate

Definition

scold with biting harshness; strip the skin off

Term

execrable

Definition

very bad

Term

execrate

Definition

curse; express abhorrence for

Term

exegesis

Definition

explanation, especially of biblical passages

Term

exhort

Definition

urge

Term

exhume

Definition

dig out of the ground; remove from the grave

Term

exiguous

Definition

small; minute

Term

expansive

Definition

outgoing and sociable; broad and extensive; able to increase in size

Term

expatiate

Definition

talk at length

Term

expatriate

Definition

exile; someone who has withdrawn from his native land

Term

expedient

Definition

suitable; practical; politic

Term

expiate

Definition

make amends for (a sin)

Term

expletive

Definition

interjection; profane oath

Term

explicate

Definition

explain; interpret; clarify

Term

explicit

Definition

totally clear; defininte; outspoken

Term

expository

Definition

explanitory; serving to explain

Term

expostulation

Definition

protest; remonstrance

Term

expropriate

Definition

take possession of

Term

expurgate

Definition

clean; remove offensive parts of a book

Term

extant

Definition

still in existence

Term

extenuate

Definition

weaken; mitigate

Term

extirpate

Definition

root up

Term

extol

Definition

praise; glorify

Term

extort

Definition

wring from; get money by threats

Term

extraneous

Definition

not essential; superfluous

Term

extricate

Definition

free; disentangle

Term

extrinsic

Definition

external; not essential; extraneous

Term

extrude

Definition

force or push out

Term

exult

Definition

rejoice

Term

facade

Definition

front (of building) superficial or false appearance

Term

facet

Definition

small plane surface (of a gem); a side

Term

facile

Definition

easily accomplished; ready or fluent; superficial

Term

fascimilie

Definition

copy

Term

factious

Definition

inclined to form factions; causing dispension

Term

factitious

Definition

artificial; sham

Term

factotum

Definition

handyman

Term

fallow

Definition

plowed but not sowed; uncultivated

Term

falter

Definition

hesitate

Term

fancier

Definition

breeder or dealer of animals

Term

farce

Definition

broad comedy; mockery

Term

fastidious

Definition

difficult to please; squeamish

Term

fatuous

Definition

brainless; inane; foolish, yet smug

Term

fauna

Definition

animals of a period or region

Term

febrile

Definition

feverish

Term

fecundity

Definition

fertility; fruitfulness

Term

feint

Definition

trick; shift; sham blow

Term

feral

Definition

not domestic; wild

Term

ferment

Definition

agitation; commotion

Term

ferret

Definition

drive or hunt out of hiding

Term

fervent

Definition

ardent; hot

Term

fervid

Definition

ardent

Term

fester

Definition

rankle; produce irritation or resentment

Term

fete

Definition

honor at a festival

Term

fetid

Definition

malodorous; foul-smelling

Term

fiat

Definition

command; authorization

Term

figment

Definition

invention; imaginary thing

Term

filch

Definition

steal

Term

filial

Definition

pertaining to a son or daughter

Term

filigree

Definition

delicate, lacelike metalwork

Term

filing

Definition

particle removed by a file

Term

firebrand

Definition

hothead; troublemaker

Term

fissure

Definition

crevice

Term

fitful

Definition

spasmodic; intermittent

Term

flaccid

Definition

flabby

Term

flagrant

Definition

conspicuously wicked; blatant; outrageous

Term

flail

Definition

thresh grain by hand; strike or slap; toss about

Term

flair

Definition

talent

Term

flay

Definition

strip off skin; plunder; whip; attack with harsh criticism

Term

fleck

Definition

spot

Term

fledgling

Definition

inexperienced

Term

fleece

Definition

wool coat of sheep; rob; plunder

Term

flit

Definition

fly; dart lightly; pass swiftly by

Term

floe

Definition

mass of floating ice

Term

florid

Definition

ruddy; reddish; flowery

Term

flotsam

Definition

drifting wreckage

Term

fluted

Definition

having vertical parallel grooves (as in a pillar)

Term

fodder

Definition

coarse food for cattle, horses, etc

Term

foible

Definition

weakneess; slight fault

Term

foil

Definition

contrast

Term

foist

Definition

insert improperly; palm off

Term

foolhardy

Definition

rash

Term

fop

Definition

dandy

Term

foray

Definition

raid

Term

forbearance

Definition

patience

Term

forebears

Definition

ancestors

Term

forensic

Definition

suitable to debate or courts of law

Term

forlorn

Definition

sad and lonely; wretched

Term

forswear

Definition

renounce; abandon

Term

fortitude; bravery; courage

Definition

Term

fortuitous

Definition

accidental; by chance

Term

fracas

Definition

brawl; melee

Term

fractious

Definition

unruly; disobedient; irritable

Term

fraught

Definition

filled or charged with; causing emotional distress

Term

fray

Definition

brawl

Term

frenetic

Definition

frenzied; frantic

Term

fresco

Definition

painting on plaster (usually fresh)

Term

frieze

Definition

ornamental band on a wall

Term

fritter

Definition

waste

Term

frolicsome

Definition

pranksih; gay

Term

frond

Definition

fern leaf; palm or banana leaf

Term

froward

Definition

stubbornly contrary; obstinately disobedient

Term

fructify

Definition

bear fruit

Term

fugitive

Definition

fleeting or transitory; roving

Term

fulcrum

Definition

support on which a lever rests

Term

fulminate

Definition

denounce thunderously; explode

Term

fulsome

Definition

disgustingly excessive

Term

functionary

Definition

official

Term

funereal

Definition

sad; solemn

Term

fusillade

Definition

simultaneous firing or outburst

Term

gadfly

Definition

animal-biting fly; an irritating person

Term

gaffe

Definition

social blunder

Term

gait

Definition

manner of walking or running; speed

Term

galaxy

Definition

a collection of brilliant personalities

Term

gale

Definition

windstorm; gust of wind; emotional outburst

Term

gall (n)

Definition

bitterness; nerve

Term

gall (v)

Definition

annoy; chafe

Term

galleon

Definition

large sailing ship

Term

gambit

Definition

opening in chess in which a piece is sacrificed

Term

gambol

Definition

romp; skip about; leap playfully

Term

gamely

Definition

in a spirited manner; with courage

Term

gargoyle

Definition

waterspout carved in grotesque figures on a building

Term

garish

Definition

overbright in color; gaudy

Term

garner

Definition

gather; store up

Term

gastronomy

Definition

science of preparing and serving food

Term

gauche

Definition

clumsy; coarse a and uncouth

Term

gaudy

Definition

flashy; showy

Term

gazette

Definition

official periodical publication

Term

generic

Definition

characteristic of an entire class or species

Term

genteel

Definition

well-bred; elegant

Term

gentility

Definition

those of gentle birth; refinement

Term

gentry

Definition

people of standing; class of people just below nobility

Term

genuflect

Definition

bend the knee as in worship

Term

germinal

Definition

pertaining to a germ; creative

Term

gerontocracy

Definition

government ruled by old people

Term

gestate

Definition

evolve, as in prenatal growth

Term

gesticulation

Definition

motion; gesture

Term

gibe

Definition

mock

Term

gist

Definition

essence

Term

glacial

Definition

like a glacier; extremely cold

Term

glean

Definition

gather leavings

Term

gloss over

Definition

explain away

Term

glossary

Definition

brief explanation of words used in the text

Term

glower

Definition

scowl

Term

glutinous

Definition

sticky; viscous

Term

gnarled

Definition

twisted

Term

gnome

Definition

dwarf; underground spirit

Term

gorge

Definition

narrow canyon; steep, rocky cleft; stuff oneself

Term

gossamer

Definition

sheer; like cobwebs

Term

gouge

Definition

overcharge

Term

gourmand

Definition

epicure; person who takes excessive pleasure in food and drink

Term

gourmet

Definition

connoisseur of food and drink

Term

graduated

Definition

arranged by degrees

Term

granary

Definition

storehouse for grain

Term

graphic

Definition

pertaining to the art of delineating; vividly described

Term

gratuitous

Definition

given freely; unwarranted; uncalled for

Term

grievance

Definition

cause of complaint

Term

grisly

Definition

ghastly

Term

grotto

Definition

small cavern

Term

grouse

Definition

complain; fuss

Term

grovel

Definition

crawl or creep on the ground; remain prostrate

Term

grudging

Definition

unwilling; reluctant; stingy

Term

gruel

Definition

thin, liquid porridge

Term

grueling

Definition

exhausting

Term

gull

Definition

trick; hoodwink

Term

gustatory

Definition

affecting the sense of taste

Term

gyroscope

Definition

apparatus used to maintain balance, ascertain direction, etc

Term

hackles

Definition

hairs on back and neck, especially of a dog

Term

hale

Definition

healthy

Term

halting

Definition

hesitant; faltering

Term

hap

Definition

chance; luck

Term

hapless

Definition

unfortunate

Term

harbinger

Definition

forerunner

Term

harbor

Definition

provide refuge for; hide

Term

harping

Definition

tiresome dwelling on a subject

Term

harrowing

Definition

agonizing; distressing; traumatic

Term

harry

Definition

harass, annoy, torment; raid

Term

hatch

Definition

deck opening; lid covering a deck opening

Term

haughtiness

Definition

pride; arrogance

Term

hermetic

Definition

sealed by fusion so as to be airtight; obscure and mysterious; occult

Term

herpetologist

Definition

one who studies reptiles

Term

heterodox

Definition

unorthodox; unconventional

Term

hew

Definition

cut to pieces with an ax or sword

Term

hibernal

Definition

wintry

Term

hinterlands

Definition

back country

Term

hireling

Definition

one who serves for hire (usually used contemptuously)

Term

hirsute

Definition

hairy

Term

hoary

Definition

white with age

Term

holocaust

Definition

destruction by fire

Term

holster

Definition

pistol case

Term

himily

Definition

sermon; serious warning

Term

horde

Definition

crowd

Term

hortatory

Definition

encouraging; exhortive

Term

horticultural

Definition

pertaining to cultivation of gardens

Term

hovel

Definition

shack; small wretched house

Term

hue

Definition

color; aspect

Term

hue and cry

Definition

outcy

Term

humdrum

Definition

dull; monotonous

Term

hummock

Definition

small hill

Term

humus

Definition

substance formed by decaying vegetable matter

Term

hurtle

Definition

crash; rush

Term

husband

Definition

use sparingly; conserve; save

Term

husbandry

Definition

frugality; thrift; agriculture

Term

hydrophobia

Definition

fear of water; RABIES

Term

ichtyology

Definition

study of fish

Term

icon

Definition

religious image; idol

Term

idiom

Definition

expression whose meaning as a whole differes from the meanings of its individual words

Term

idyllic

Definition

charmingly carefree; simple

Term

igneous

Definition

produced by fire; volcanic

Term

ignominy

Definition

deep disgrace; shame or dishonor

Term

illicit

Definition

illegal

Term

illimitable

Definition

infinite

Term

illuminate

Definition

brighten; clear up or make understandable; enlighten

Term

illusion

Definition

misleading vision

Term

illusive

Definition

deceiving

Term

illusory

Definition

deceptive; not real

Term

imbibe

Definition

drink in

Term

imbroglio

Definition

complicated situation; painful or complex misunderstanding; entnglement; confused mass (as of papers)

Term

imbue

Definition

saturate, fill

Term

immolate

Definition

offer as sacrifice

Term

immure

Definition

imprison; shut up in confinement

Term

impair

Definition

injure; hurt

Term

impalpable

Definition

imperceptible; intangible

Term

impassable

Definition

not able to be traveled or crossed

Term

impasse

Definition

pridicament from which there is no excape

Term

impel

Definition

drive or force onward

Term

impenetrable

Definition

not able to be pierced or entered; beyond understanding

Term

imperious

Definition

domineering; haughty

Term

impertinent

Definition

insolent; rude

Term

impinge

Definition

infringe; touch; collide with

Term

implicate

Definition

incriminate; show to be involved

Term

impolitic

Definition

not wise

Term

imponderable

Definition

weightless

Term

import

Definition

significance

Term

importunate

Definition

urging; demanding

Term

importune

Definition

beg persistently

Term

imposture

Definition

assuming a false identity; masquerade

Term

imprecation

Definition

curse

Term

impregnable

Definition

invulnerable

Term

improvident

Definition

thriftless

Term

impudence

Definition

impertinence; insolence

Term

impugn

Definition

dispute or contradict

Term

impuissance

Definition

powerlessness; feebleness

Term

impute

Definition

attribute; ascribe

Term

inane

Definition

silly; senseless

Term

inaugurate

Definition

begin formally; install in office

Term

incandescent

Definition

strikingly bright; shining with intense heat

Term

incantation

Definition

singing or chanting of magic spells; magical formula

Term

incendiary

Definition

arsonist

Term

incense

Definition

enrage; infuriate

Term

incisive

Definition

cutting; sharp

Term

inclement

Definition

stormy; unkind

Term

incognito

Definition

with identity concealed; using an assumed name

Term

incontinent

Definition

lacking self-restraint; licentious

Term

incontrovertable

Definition

indisputable; not open to question

Term

incororeal

Definition

lacking a material body; insubstantial

Term

incorrigible

Definition

uncorrectable

Term

increment

Definition

increase

Term

incriminate

Definition

accuse; serve as evidence against

Term

incrustation

Definition

hard coating or crust

Term

incubate

Definition

hatch

Term

incubus

Definition

burden; mental care; nightmare

Term

inculate

Definition

teach

Term

incursion

Definition

temporary invasion

Term

indefatigable

Definition

tireless

Term

indelible

Definition

not able to be erased

Term

indemnify

Definition

notch; deep recess

Term

indentation

Definition

notch; deep recess

Term

indenture

Definition

bind as servant or apprentice to master

Term

indict

Definition

charge

Term

indignation

Definition

anger at an injustice

Term

indignity

Definition

offensive or insulting treatment

Term

indissoluble

Definition

permanent

Term

indite

Definition

write; compose

Term

indomitable

Definition

unconquerable; unyielding

Term

inductive

Definition

pertaining to induction or proceeding from the specific to the general

Term

indulgent

Definition

humoring; yielding; lenient

Term

ineffable

Definition

unutterable; cannot be expressed in speech

Term

ineluctable

Definition

irresistible; not to be escaped

Term

inerrancy

Definition

infalliability

Term

infernal

Definition

pertaining to hell; devilish

Term

infidel

Definition

unbeliever

Term

infirmity

Definition

weakness

Term

ingrate

Definition

ungrateful person

Term

ingratiate

Definition

become popular with

Term

inimical

Definition

unfriendly; hostile; harmful; detrimental

Term

inimitable

Definition

matchless; not able to be imitated

Term

iniquitous

Definition

wicked; immoral; unrighteous

Term

inkling

Definition

hint

Term

inordinate

Definition

unrestrained; excessive

Term

inquisitor

Definition

questioner (especially harsh); investigator

Term

inscrutable

Definition

impenetrable; not easily understood

Term

insensate

Definition

without feeling

Term

insensible

Definition

unconscious; unresponsive

Term

insidious

Definition

treacherous; stealthy; sly

Term

insouciant

Definition

indifferent; without concern or care

Term

insubstantial

Definition

lacking substance; insignificant; frail

Term

insuperable

Definition

insurmountable; unbeatable

Term

insurgent

Definition

rebellious

Term

integral

Definition

complete; necessary for completeness

Term

inter

Definition

bury

Term

interdict

Definition

prohibit; forbid

Term

interloper

Definition

intruder

Term

internecine

Definition

mutually destructive

Term

interpolate

Definition

insert between

Term

interregnum

Definition

period between two reigns

Term

intransigence

Definition

refusal of any compromise; stubbornness

Term

inveigh

Definition

denounce; utter censure or invective

Term

inveigle

Definition

lead astray; wheedle

Term

inveterate

Definition

deep-rooted; habitual

Term

invidious

Definition

designed to create ill will or envy

Term

inviolable

Definition

secure from corruption, attack, or violation; unassailable

Term

invocation

Definition

prayer for help; calling upon as a reference or support

Term

iota

Definition

very small quantity

Term

iridescent

Definition

exhibiting rainbowlike colors

Term

irreproachable

Definition

blameless; impeccable

Term

irresolute

Definition

uncertain how to act; weak

Term

irrevocable

Definition

unalterable; irreversible

Term

isotope

Definition

varying form of an element

Term

isthmus

Definition

narrow neck of land connecting two larger bodies of land

Term

itinerant

Definition

wandering; traveling

Term

jaded

Definition

fatigued; surfeited

Term

jaundiced

Definition

prejudiced (envious, hostile, or resentful); yellowed

Term

jaunt

Definition

trip; short journey

Term

jaunty

Definition

lighthearted; animated; easy and carefree

Term

jettison

Definition

throw overboard

Term

jibe

Definition

agree; be in harmony with

Term

jingoist

Definition

extremely aggressive and militant patriot; warlike chauvinist

Term

jocose

Definition

given to joking

Term

jocular

Definition

said or done in jest

Term

jocund

Definition

merry

Term

jollity

Definition

gaiety; cheerfulness

Term

junket

Definition

trip, especially one taken for pleasure by an official at public expense

Term

junta

Definition

group of persons joined in political intrigue; cabal

Term

jurisprudence

Definition

science of law

Term

ken

Definition

range of knowledge

Term

kernel

Definition

central or vital part; whole seed (as of corn)

Term

killjoy

Definition

grouch; spoilsport

Term

kindle

Definition

start a fire; inspire

Term

kinetic

Definition

producing motion

Term

kismet

Definition

fate

Term

knave

Definition

untrustworthy person; rogue; scoundrel

Term

knell

Definition

tolling of a bell, especially to indicate a funeral, disaster, etc

Term

knit

Definition

contract into wrinkles; grow together

Term

knoll

Definition

little, round hill

Term

knotty

Definition

intricate; difficult; tangled

Term

labile

Definition

likely to change; unstable

Term

lachrymose

Definition

producing tears

Term

laity

Definition

laypersons; not always connected with the clergy

Term

lambaste

Definition

beat; thrash verbally or physically

Term

lancet

Definition

small surgical tool for making incisions

Term

languid

Definition

weary; sluggish; listless

Term

languor

Definition

lassitude; depression

Term

lank

Definition

long and thin

Term

larceny

Definition

theft

Term

larder

Definition

pantry; place where food is kept

Term

largess

Definition

generous gift

Term

lascivious

Definition

lustful

Term

latitude

Definition

freedom from narrow limitations

Term

lechery

Definition

grows lewdness; lustfulness

Term

lectern

Definition

reading desk

Term

leery

Definition

suspicious; cautious

Term

legacy

Definition

gift made by a will

Term

legend

Definition

explanatory list of symbols on a map

Term

legerdemain

Definition

slight of hand

Term

leonine

Definition

like a lion

Term

levee

Definition

earthen or stone embankment to prevent flooding

Term

levy

Definition

impose (a fine); collect (a payment)

Term

lewd

Definition

lustful

Term

lexicographer

Definition

compiler of a dictionary

Term

liability

Definition

drawback; depts

Term

liason

Definition

contact that keeps parties in communication; go-between; secret love affair

Term

libertine

Definition

debauched person; roue

Term

libidinous

Definition

lustful

Term

libido

Definition

emotional urges behind human activity

Term

libretto

Definition

text of an opera

Term

licentious

Definition

amoral; lewd and lascivious; unrestrained

Term

lien

Definition

legal claim on a property

Term

ligneous

Definition

like wood

Term

lilliputian

Definition

extremely small

Term

limbo

Definition

region near heaven or hell; a prison (slang

Term

limn

Definition

draw; outline; describe

Term

lineaments

Definition

features, especially on the face

Term

lionize

Definition

treat as a celebrity

Term

liquidate

Definition

settle accounts; clear up

Term

litany

Definition

supplicatory prayer

Term

lithe

Definition

flexible; supple

Term

litotes

Definition

understatement for emphasis

Term

livid

Definition

lead-colored; black and blue; ashen; enraged

Term

loath

Definition

reluctant; disinclined

Term

loathe

Definition

detest

Term

lode

Definition

metal-bearing vein

Term

loll

Definition

lounge about

Term

longevity

Definition

long life

Term

loom

Definition

appear or take shape (usually in an enlarged or distorted form)

Term

lope

Definition

gallop slowly

Term

lout

Definition

clumsy person

Term

low

Definition

a cow's moo

Term

lucre

Definition

money

Term

lugubrious

Definition

mournful

Term

lumen

Definition

unit of light energy (one candle's worth)

Term

luminary

Definition

celebrity; dignitary

Term

lurid

Definition

wild; sensational; graphic; gruesome

Term

luscious

Definition

pleasing to the taste or smell

Term

macabre

Definition

gruesome; grisly

Term

mace

Definition

ceremonial staff; clublike medieval weapon

Term

macerate

Definition

soften by soaking in liquid; waste away

Term

machinations

Definition

evil schemes or plots

Term

maculated

Definition

spotted; stained

Term

madrigal

Definition

pastoral song

Term

maelstrom

Definition

whirlpool

Term

magisterial

Definition

authoritative; imperious

Term

magnate

Definition

a person of prominence or influence

Term

maladroit

Definition

clumsy; bungling

Term

malady

Definition

illness

Term

malaise

Definition

uneasiness; vague feeling of ill health

Term

malapropism

Definition

comic misuse of a word

Term

malediction

Definition

curse

Term

malefactor

Definition

evildoer; criminal

Term

malevolant

Definition

wishing evil

Term

malleable

Definition

capable of being shaped by pounding; impressionable

Term

mammal

Definition

vertebrate animal whose female suckles its young

Term

manacle

Definition

restrain; handcuff

Term

mangy

Definition

shabby; wretched

Term

manifold

Definition

numerous; varied

Term

manipulate

Definition

operate with one's hands; control or play upon (people, forces, etc) artfully

Term

mannered

Definition

affected; not natural

Term

manumit

Definition

emancipate; free from bondage

Term

marshal

Definition

put in order

Term

marsupial

Definition

one of a family of mammals that nurse their offspring in a pouch

Term

martinet

Definition

a strict disciplinarian

Term

masticate

Definition

chew

Term

matriculate

Definition

to enroll (in college or graduate school)

Term

matrix

Definition

point of origin; array of numbers or algebraic symbols; mold or die

Term

maudlin

Definition

effusively sentimental

Term

mausoleum

Definition

monumental tomb

Term

mauve

Definition

pale purple

Term

mawkish

Definition

mushy and gushy; icky-sticky sentimental- maudlin

Term

mayhem

Definition

injury to body

Term

mealymouthed

Definition

indirect in speech; hypocritical; evasive

Term

medium

Definition

element that is a creature's natural environment; nutrient setting in which microorganisms are cultivated

Term

megalomania

Definition

mania for doing grandiose things

Term

mellifluous

Definition

sweetly or smoothly following; melodious

Term

menagerie

Definition

collection of wild animals

Term

mendicant

Definition

beggar

Term

mercantile

Definition

concerning trade

Term

mercenary

Definition

motivated solely by money or gain

Term

meretricious

Definition

flashy; tawdry

Term

metallurgical

Definition

pertaining to the art of removing metals from ores

Term

metaphysical

Definition

pertaining to speculative philosophy

Term

mete

Definition

measure; distribute

Term

meteoric

Definition

swift; momentarily brilliant

Term

mettle

Definition

courage; spirit

Term

mettlesome

Definition

courageous; spirited

Term

miasma

Definition

swamp gas; heavy, vaporous atmosphere, often emanating from decaying matter; pervasive corrupting influence

Term

microcosm

Definition

small world; the world in miniature

Term

milieu

Definition

environment; means of expression

Term

militate

Definition

work against

Term

millennium

Definition

thousand year period; period of happiness and prosperity

Term

minatory

Definition

menacing; threatening

Term

mincing

Definition

affectedly dainty

Term

minion

Definition

a servile dependent

Term

minutiae

Definition

petty details

Term

mirth

Definition

merriment; laughter

Term

misadventure

Definition

mischance; ill luck

Term

misapprehention

Definition

error; misunderstanding

Term

miscellany

Definition

mixture of writings on various subjects

Term

mischance

Definition

ill luck

Term

miscreant

Definition

wretch; villain

Term

misdemeanor

Definition

minor crime

Term

misogamy

Definition

hatred of marriage

Term

missive

Definition

letter

Term

mite

Definition

very small object or creature; small coin

Term

mnemonic

Definition

pertaining to memory

Term

modish

Definition

fashionable

Term

mogul

Definition

powerful person

Term

molecule

Definition

the smallest particle of a substance that has all the properties of that substance

Term

mollycoddle

Definition

pamper; indulge excessively

Term

molt

Definition

shed or cast off hair or feathers

Term

monolithic

Definition

solidly uniform; unyielding

Term

moratorium

Definition

legal delay of payment

Term

mordant

Definition

biting; sarcastic; stinging

Term

moribund

Definition

dying

Term

mortician

Definition

undertaker

Term

mortify

Definition

humiliate; punish the flesh

Term

mote

Definition

small speck

Term

motility

Definition

ability to move spontaneously

Term

motley

Definition

multicolored; mixed

Term

mottled

Definition

blotched in coloring; spotted

Term

mountebank

Definition

charlatan; boastful pretender

Term

mulct

Definition

defraud a person of something

Term

multifarious

Definition

varied; greatly diversified

Term

multiform

Definition

having many forms

Term

mundane

Definition

worldly as opposed to spiritual; everyday

Term

munificent

Definition

very generous

Term

musty

Definition

stale; spoiled by age

Term

mutability

Definition

ability to change in form; fickleness

Term

mutilate

Definition

maim

Term

mutinous

Definition

unruly; rebellious

Term

myopic

Definition

nearsighted; lacking foresight

Term

nadir

Definition

lowest point

Term

naivete

Definition

quality of being unsophisticated; simplicity; artlessness; gullibility

Term

natation

Definition

swimming

Term

natty

Definition

neatly or smartly dressed

Term

navigable

Definition

wide and deep enough to allow ships to pass through; able to be steered

Term

necromancy

Definition

black magic; dealings with the dead

Term

nemesis

Definition

someone seeking revenge

Term

nepotism

Definition

favoritism (to a relative)

Term

nether

Definition

lower

Term

nettle

Definition

annoy; vex

Term

nib

Definition

beak; pen point

Term

nicety

Definition

precision; minute distinction

Term

niggardly

Definition

meanly stingy; parsimonious

Term

niggle

Definition

spend too much time on minor points; carp

Term

nip

Definition

stop something's growth or development; snip off; bite; make numb with cold

Term

noisome

Definition

foul-smelling; unwholesome

Term

nomenclature

Definition

terminology; system of names

Term

nonentity

Definition

person of no importance; nonexistence

Term

nonplus

Definition

bring to a halt by confusion; perplex

Term

nostrum

Definition

questionable medicine

Term

notoriety

Definition

disripute; ill fame

Term

nubile

Definition

marriageable

Term

nugatory

Definition

futile; worthless

Term

numismatist

Definition

person who collects coins

Term

obeisance

Definition

bow

Term

obelisk

Definition

tall column tapering and ending in a pyramid

Term

oblique

Definition

indirect; slanting (deviating from the perpendicular or from a straight line)

Term

obloquy

Definition

slander; disgrace; infamy

Term

obsequy

Definition

funeral ceremony

Term

obsidian

Definition

black volcanic rock

Term

obstetrician

Definition

physician specializing in delivery of babies

Term

obstreperous

Definition

boisterous; noisy

Term

obtrude

Definition

push (oneself or one's ideas) forward or intrude; butt in; stick out or extrude

Term

occident

Definition

the west

Term

oculist

Definition

physician who specializes in treatment of the eyes

Term

odium

Definition

detestation; hatefulness; disrepute

Term

odoriferous

Definition

giving off an odor

Term

ogle

Definition

look at amorously; make eyes at

Term

omniscient

Definition

all-knowing

Term

onomatopoeia

Definition

words formed in imitation of natural sounds

Term

onus

Definition

burden; responsibility

Term

opalescent

Definition

iridescent; lustrous

Term

opportunist

Definition

individual who sacrifices principles for expediency by taking advantage of circumstances

Term

opprobrium

Definition

infamy; villification

Term

optician

Definition

maker and seller of eyeglasses

Term

opulence

Definition

extreme wealth; luxuriousness; abundance

Term

opus

Definition

work

Term

oracular

Definition

prophetic; uttered as if with divine authority; mysterious or ambiguous

Term

oratorio

Definition

dramatic poem set to music

Term

ordination

Definition

ceremony conferring holy orders

Term

orientation

Definition

act of finding oneself in society

Term

ornithologist

Definition

scientific student of birds

Term

orthography

Definition

correct spelling

Term

osseous

Definition

made of bone; bony

Term

ossify

Definition

change or harden into bone

Term

ostracize

Definition

exclude from public favor; ban

Term

outstrip

Definition

surpass; outdo

Term

overweening

Definition

presumptuous; arrogant

Term

overwrought

Definition

extremely agitated; hysterical

Term

ovoid

Definition

egg-shaped

Term

pachyderm

Definition

thick-skinned animal

Term

palate

Definition

roof of the mouth; sense of taste

Term

palatial

Definition

magnificent

Term

palimpsest

Definition

parchmest used for second time after original writing has been erased

Term

pall

Definition

grow tiresome

Term

pallet

Definition

small, poor bed

Term

palliate

Definition

ease pain; make less severe or offensive

Term

pallid

Definition

pale; wan

Term

palpable

Definition

tangible; easily perceptible

Term

paltry

Definition

insignificant; petty; trifling

Term

pan

Definition

criticize harshly

Term

panache

Definition

flair; flamboyance

Term

pander

Definition

cater to the low desires of others

Term

panegyric

Definition

formal praise

Term

parable

Definition

short, simple story teaching a moral

Term

paradigm

Definition

model; example; pattern

Term

parallelism

Definition

state of being parallel; similarity

Term

paramour

Definition

illicit lover

Term

parity

Definition

equality; close resemblance

Term

parlance

Definition

language; idiom

Term

parley

Definition

conference

Term

parochial

Definition

narrow in outlook; provincial; related to parishes

Term

parody

Definition

humorous imitation; spoof; takeoff; travesty

Term

paroxysm

Definition

fit or attack of pain; laughter; rage

Term

parquet

Definition

floor made of wood strips inlaid in a mosaiclike patter

Term

parry

Definition

ward off a blow; deflect

Term

partisan

Definition

one-sided; prejudiced; committed to a party

Term

passe

Definition

old-fashioned; past the prime

Term

pastiche

Definition

imitation of another's style in musical composition or in writing

Term

pastoral

Definition

rural

Term

patent

Definition

open to the public to read; obvious

Term

pathos

Definition

tender sorrow; pity; quality in art or literature that produces these feelings

Term

patina

Definition

green crust on old bronze works; tone slowly taken by varnished painting

Term

patois

Definition

local or provincial dialect

Term

patriarch

Definition

father and ruler of a family or tribe

Term

patrician

Definition

noble; aristocratic

Term

patronize

Definition

support; act superior toward; be a customer of

Term

peccadillo

Definition

slight offense

Term

pecuniary

Definition

pertaining to money

Term

pedant

Definition

scholar who overemphasizes book learning or technicalities

Term

pell-mell

Definition

in confusion; disorderly

Term

pellucid

Definition

transparent; limpid; easy to understand

Term

penance

Definition

self-imposed punishment for sin

Term

pendant

Definition

hanging down from something

Term

pendulous

Definition

hanging; suspended

Term

penitent

Definition

repentant

Term

penumbra

Definition

partial shadow (in an eclipse)

Term

peon

Definition

landless agricultural worker; bond servant

Term

percussion

Definition

striking one object against another sharply

Term

perdition

Definition

damnation; complete ruin

Term

peregrination

Definition

journey

Term

peremptory

Definition

demanding and leaving no choice

Term

perfidious

Definition

treacherous; disloyal

Term

perforate

Definition

pierce; put a hole through

Term

perfunctory

Definition

superficial; not thorough; lacking interest, care, or enthusiasm

Term

perigree

Definition

point of moon's orbit when it is nearest to the earth

Term

peripatetic

Definition

walking about; moving

Term

peroration

Definition

conclusion of an oration

Term

perpetrate

Definition

commit an offense

Term

perquisite

Definition

any gain above stipulated salary

Term

perspicuous

Definition

plainly expressed

Term

pert

Definition

impertinent; forward

Term

pertinacious

Definition

stubborn; persistent

Term

pestilential

Definition

causing plague; baneful

Term

pestle

Definition

tool for mashing or grinding substances in a hard bowl

Term

petrify

Definition

turn to stone

Term

petty

Definition

trivial; unimportant; very small

Term

pharisaical

Definition

pertaining to the Pharisees, who paid scrupulous attention to tradition; self-righteous; hypocritical

Term

philanderer

Definition

faithless lover; flirt

Term

philatelist

Definition

stamp collector

Term

philistine

Definition

narrow-minded person, uncultured and exclusively interested in material gain

Term

philology

Definition

study of language

Term

phoenix

Definition

symbol of immortailty or rebirth

Term

phylum

Definition

major classification, second to kingdom, of plants and animals; division

Term

physiognomy

Definition

face

Term

physiological

Definition

pertaining to the science of the function of living organisms

Term

pillory

Definition

punish by placing in a wooden frame; subject to criticism and ridicule

Term

pinion

Definition

restrain

Term

piquant

Definition

pleasantly tart-tasting; stimulating

Term

pique

Definition

irritation; resentment

Term

piscatorial

Definition

pertaining to fishing

Term

pittance

Definition

small allowance or wage

Term

placebo

Definition

harmless substance prescribed as a dummy pill

Term

plaintive

Definition

mournful

Term

plait

Definition

braid; intertwine

Term

platonic

Definition

purely spiritual; theoretical; without sensual desire

Term

plaudit

Definition

enthusiastic approval; round of applause

Term

plausible

Definition

having a show of truth but open to doubt; specious

Term

plebian

Definition

common; pertaining to the common people

Term

plenary

Definition

complete; full

Term

plenitude

Definition

abundance; completeness

Term

plethora

Definition

excess; overabundance

Term

pliant

Definition

flexible; easily influenced

Term

plumage

Definition

feathers of a bird

Term

plumb

Definition

examine critically in order to understand; measure depth (by sounding)

Term

plumb

Definition

vertical

Term

plutocracy

Definition

society ruled by the wealthy

Term

podiatrist

Definition

doctor who treats ailments of the feet

Term

polity

Definition

form of government of nation or state

Term

polyglot

Definition

speaking several languages

Term

ponderous

Definition

weighty; unwieldly

Term

pontifical

Definition

pertaining to a bishop or popel pompous or pretentious

Term

pore

Definition

study industriously; ponde3rl scrutinize

Term

portend

Definition

foretell; presage

Term

portent

Definition

sign; omen

Term

poseur

Definition

person who pretends to be sophisticated, elegant, etc to impress others

Term

posterity

Definition

descendants; future generations

Term

postulate

Definition

self-evident truth

Term

potable

Definition

suitable for drinking

Term

potentate

Definition

monarch; sovereign

Term

potion

Definition

dose (of liquid)

Term

potpurri

Definition

heterogeneous mixture; medley

Term

poultice

Definition

soothing application applied to sore and inflamed portions of the body

Term

practicable

Definition

feasible

Term

prate

Definition

speak foolishly; boast idly

Term

precept

Definition

practical rule guiding conduct

Term

precipice

Definition

cliff; dangerous position

Term

precipitant

Definition

something that causes a substance in a chemical solution to separate out in solid form

Term

precis

Definition

concise summing up of main points

Term

precocious

Definition

advanced in development

Term

predilection

Definition

partiality; preference

Term

preeminent

Definition

outstanding; superior

Term

prefactory

Definition

introductory

Term

prehensile

Definition

capable of grasping or holding

Term

prelate

Definition

church dignitary

Term

premonitory

Definition

serving to warn

Term

preponderance

Definition

superiority of power, quantity, etc

Term

prerogative

Definition

priviledge; unquestionable right

Term

presage

Definition

foretell

Term

presentiment

Definition

feeling something will happen; anticipatory fear; premonition

Term

preternatural

Definition

beyond that which is normal in nature

Term

pretext

Definition

excuse

Term

prim

Definition

very precise and formal; exceedingly proper

Term

primogeniture

Definition

seniority by birth

Term

primordial

Definition

existing at the beginning (of time); rudimentary

Term

pristine

Definition

characteristic of earlier times; primitive, unspoiled

Term

privation

Definition

hardship; want

Term

privy

Definition

secret; hidden; not public

Term

prodigious

Definition

marvelous; enormous

Term

prodigy

Definition

highly gifted child; marvel

Term

profane

Definition

violate; desecrate; treat unworthily

Term

profusion

Definition

overabundance; lavish expenditure; excess

Term

prognosis

Definition

forecasted course of a disease; prediction

Term

prognosticate

Definition

predict

Term

prolixity

Definition

tedious wordiness; verbosity

Term

promiscuous

Definition

mixed indiscriminately; haphazard; irregular, particularly sexually

Term

promontory

Definition

headland

Term

promulgate

Definition

proclaim a doctrine or law; make known by official publication

Term

propellant

Definition

substance that propels or drives forward

Term

prophylactic

Definition

used to prevent disease

Term

propinquity

Definition

nearness; kinship

Term

propitious

Definition

favorable; fortunate; advantageous

Term

propound

Definition

put forth for analysis

Term

propriety

Definition

fitness; correct conduct

Term

propulsive

Definition

driving forward

Term

prosaic

Definition

dull and unimaginative; matter-of-fact; factual

Term

proscenium

Definition

part of the stage in front of a curtain

Term

proscribe

Definition

ostracize; banish; outlaw

Term

proselytize

Definition

induce someone to convert to a religion or belief

Term

prosody

Definition

the art of versification

Term

protean

Definition

versatile; able to take on many forms

Term

protege

Definition

person receiving protection and support from a patron

Term

protuberance

Definition

protrusion; bulge

Term

provenance

Definition

origin or source of something

Term

provender

Definition

dry food; fodder

Term

provident

Definition

displaying foresight; thrifty; preparing for emergencies

Term

provincial

Definition

pertaining to a province; limited in outlook; unsophisticated

Term

proviso

Definition

stipulation

Term

prude

Definition

excessively modest or proper person

Term

prune

Definition

cut away; trim

Term

prurient

Definition

having or causing lustful thoughts and desires

Term

psychosis

Definition

mental disorder

Term

puerile

Definition

childish

Term

pugilist

Definition

boxer

Term

pugnacity

Definition

combativeness; disposition to fight

Term

puissant

Definition

powerful; strong; potent

Term

pulchritude

Definition

beauty; comeliness

Term

pulmonary

Definition

pertaining to the lungs

Term

punctilious

Definition

stressing niceties of conduct or form; minutely attentive (perhaps too much so) to fine points

Term

pundit

Definition

authority on a subject; learned person; expert

Term

purchase

Definition

firm grasp or footing

Term

purport

Definition

intention; meaning

Term

purse

Definition

pucker; contract into wrinkles

Term

purveyor

Definition

furnisher of foodstuffs; caterer

Term

pusillanimous

Definition

cowardly; fainthearted

Term

putative

Definition

supposed; reputed

Term

pylon

Definition

marking post to guide aviators; steel tower supporting cables or telephone lines

Term

quadruped

Definition

four-footed animal

Term

quagmire

Definition

soft, wet, boggy land; complex or dangerous situation from which it is difficult to free oneself

Term

quaint

Definition

odd; old-fashioned; picturesque

Term

quarry (n)

Definition

victim; object of a hunt

Term

quarry (v)

Definition

dig into

Term

quay

Definition

dock; landing place

Term

queue

Definition

line

Term

quibble

Definition

minor objection or complaint

Term

quietude

Definition

tranquility

Term

quintessence

Definition

purest and nighest embodiment

Term

quip

Definition

taunt

Term

quisling

Definition

traitor who aids invaders

Term

quiver

Definition

case for arrows

Term

quizzical

Definition

teasing; bantering; mocking; curious

Term

quorum

Definition

number of members necessary to conduct a meeting

Term

ranconteur

Definition

story-teller

Term

ragamuffin

Definition

person wearing tattered clothes

Term

rail

Definition

scold; rant

Term

raiment

Definition

clothing

Term

rakish

Definition

stylish; sporty

Term

ramification

Definition

branching out; subdivision

Term

ramify

Definition

divide into branches or subdivisions

Term

rampart

Definition

defensive mound of earth

Term

rankle

Definition

irritate; fester

Term

rapacious

Definition

excessively grasping; plundering

Term

raspy

Definition

grating; harsh

Term

ratiocination

Definition

reasoning; act of drawing conclusions from premises

Term

rationalize

Definition

give a plausible reason for an action in place of a true, less admirable one; offer an excuse

Term

raucous

Definition

harsh and shrill; disorderly and boisterous

Term

ravel

Definition

fall apart into tangles; unravel or untwist; entangle

Term

ravine

Definition

narrow valley with steep sides

Term

raze

Definition

destroy completely

Term

reactionary

Definition

opposing progress; politically ultraconservative

Term

reaper

Definition

one who harvests grain

Term

rebate

Definition

discount

Term

rebus

Definition

puzzle in which pictures stand for words

Term

recast

Definition

reconstruct (a sentence, story, etc.); fashion again

Term

reciprocal

Definition

mutual; exchangeable; interacting

Term

reconcile

Definition

correct inconsistencies; befome friendly after a quarrel

Term

recourse

Definition

resorting to help when in trouble

Term

recrimination

Definition

countercharges

Term

rectitude

Definition

uprightness; moral virtue; correctness of judgment

Term

recumbent

Definition

reclining; lying down comletely or in part

Term

redolent

Definition

fragrant; odorous; suggestive of an odor

Term

redoubtable

Definition

formidable; causing fear

Term

redress

Definition

remedy; compensation

Term

refectory

Definition

dining hall

Term

refraction

Definition

bending of a ray of light

Term

refractory

Definition

stubborn; unmanageable

Term

refurbish

Definition

renovate; make bright by polishing

Term

regale

Definition

entertaine

Term

regatta

Definition

boat or yacht race

Term

regicide

Definition

murder of a king or queen

Term

rejoinder

Definition

retort; comeback; reply

Term

remediable

Definition

reparable

Term

reminiscence

Definition

recollection

Term

remiss

Definition

negligent

Term

remission

Definition

temporary moderation of disease symptoms; cancellation of a debt; forgiveness or pardon

Term

remonstrance

Definition

protest; objection

Term

remunerative

Definition

compensating; rewarding

Term

rend

Definition

split; tear apart

Term

rendezvous

Definition

meeting place

Term

rendition

Definition

translation; artistic interpretation of a song, etc

Term

renegate

Definition

deserter; traitor

Term

repartee

Definition

clever reply

Term

repast

Definition

meal; feast; banquet

Term

repertoire

Definition

list of works of music, drama, etc, a performer is prepared to present

Term

repine

Definition

fret; complain

Term

replete

Definition

filled to the brim or to the point of being stuffed; abundantly supplied

Term

reprieve

Definition

temporary stay

Term

reprobation

Definition

severe disapproval

Term

reprove

Definition

censure; rebuke

Term

repugnance

Definition

loathing

Term

reputed

Definition

supposed

Term

requiem

Definition

mass for the dead; dirge

Term

requite

Definition

repay; revenge

Term

rescind

Definition

cancel

Term

resilient

Definition

elastic; having the power of springing back

Term

resolution

Definition

determination

Term

respite

Definition

interval for relief; time for rest; delay in punishment

Term

resplendent

Definition

dazzling; glorious; brilliant

Term

restive

Definition

restlessly impatient; obstinately resisting control

Term

resurge

Definition

rise again; flow to and fro

Term

resuscitate

Definition

revive

Term

retinue

Definition

following; attendants

Term

retiring

Definition

modest; shy

Term

retort

Definition

quick, sharp reply

Term

retrench

Definition

cut down; economize

Term

retroactive

Definition

taking effect before its enactment (as a law) or imposition (as a tax)

Term

reverie

Definition

daydream; musing

Term

revile

Definition

attack with abusive language; vilify

Term

rhapsodize

Definition

to speak or write in an exaggeratedly enthusiastic manner

Term

ribald

Definition

wanton; profane

Term

riddle

Definition

pierce with holes; permeate or spread throughout

Term

rider

Definition

amendment or clause added to a legislative bill

Term

rile

Definition

vex; irritate; muddy

Term

rivulet

Definition

small stream

Term

rococo

Definition

ornate; highly decorated

Term

roil

Definition

to make liquids murky by stirring up sediment; to disturb

Term

roseate

Definition

rosy; optimistic

Term

rostrum

Definition

platform for speech-making; pulpit

Term

rotundity

Definition

roundness; sonorousness of speech

Term

rout

Definition

stampede; drive out

Term

rubric

Definition

title or heading (in red print); directions for religious ceremony; protocol

Term

ruddy

Definition

reddish; healthy-looking

Term

rue

Definition

regret; lament; mourn

Term

ruffian

Definition

bully; scoundrel

Term

ruminate

Definition

chew over and over (mentally or like cows); mull over; ponder

Term

runic

Definition

mysterious; set down in an ancient alphabet

Term

rusticate

Definition

banish to the country; dwell in the country

Term

saccharine

Definition

cloyingly sweet

Term

sacrosanct

Definition

most sacred; inviolable

Term

saga

Definition

scandinavian myth; any legend

Term

sagacious

Definition

perceptive; shrewd; having insight

Term

salacious

Definition

lascivious; lustful

Term

salient

Definition

prominent

Term

saline

Definition

salty

Term

sallow

Definition

yellowish; sickly in color

Term

salutary

Definition

tending to improve; beneficial; wholesome

Term

sanctimonious

Definition

displaying ostentatious or hypocritical devoutness

Term

sanguinary

Definition

bloody

Term

sanguine

Definition

cheerful; hopeful

Term

sardonic

Definition

disdainful; sarcastic; cynical

Term

sartorial

Definition

pertaining to tailors

Term

sate

Definition

satisfy to the full; cloy

Term

satyr

Definition

half-human, half-bestial being in the court of Dionysus, portrayed as wanton and cunning

Term

savant

Definition

scholar

Term

scabbard

Definition

case for a sword blade; sheath

Term

scad

Definition

great quantity

Term

scaffold

Definition

temporary platform for workers; bracing framework; platform for execution

Term

scanty

Definition

meager; insufficient

Term

scenario

Definition

plot outline; screenplay; opera libretto (text)

Term

schism

Definition

division; split

Term

scintilla

Definition

shred; least bit

Term

scintillate

Definition

sparkle; flash

Term

scotch

Definition

stamp out; thwart; hinder

Term

scourge

Definition

lash; whip; severe punishment

Term

scruple

Definition

fret about; hesitate; for ethical reasons

Term

scrupulous

Definition

conscientious; extremely thorough

Term

scuffle

Definition

struggle confusedly; move off in a confused hurry

Term

scurrilous

Definition

obscene; indecent

Term

scuttle

Definition

sink

Term

seamy

Definition

sordid; unwholesome

Term

secrete

Definition

hide away or cache; produce and release a substance into an organism

Term

sedate

Definition

composed; grave

Term

sedentary

Definition

requiring sitting

Term

sedition

Definition

resistance to authority; insubordination

Term

sedulous

Definition

diligent

Term

seemly

Definition

proper; appropriate

Term

seep

Definition

ooze; trickle

Term

seethe

Definition

be disturbed; boil

Term

seine

Definition

net for catching fish

Term

seminal

Definition

germinal; influencing future developments; related to seed or semen

Term

seminary

Definition

school for training future minister; secondary school, especially for young women

Term

sensual

Definition

devoted to the pleasures of the senses; carnal; voluptuous

Term

sensuous

Definition

pertaining to the physical senses; operating through the senses

Term

sententious

Definition

terse; concise; aphoristic

Term

sentinel

Definition

sentry; lookout

Term

septic

Definition

putrid; producing putrefaction

Term

sepulcher

Definition

tomb

Term

sere

Definition

parched; dry

Term

serrated

Definition

having a sawtoothed edge

Term

sextant

Definition

navigation tool used to determine a ship's latitude and longitude

Term

sheaf

Definition

bundle of stalks of grain; any bundle of things tied together

Term

shimmer

Definition

glimmer intermittently

Term

shoddy

Definition

sham; not genuine; inferior

Term

shrew

Definition

scolding woman

Term

shunt

Definition

turn aside; divert; sidetrack

Term

shyster

Definition

lawyer using questionable methods

Term

sibylline

Definition

prophetic; oracular

Term

sidereal

Definition

relating to the stars

Term

silt

Definition

sediment deposited by running water

Term

simian

Definition

monkeylike

Term

simper

Definition

smirk; smile affectedly

Term

sinecure

Definition

well-paid position with little responsibility

Term

sinewy

Definition

tough; strong and firm

Term

sinuous

Definition

winding; bending in and out; not morally honest

Term

skiff

Definition

small, light sailboat or rowboat

Term

skimp

Definition

provide scantily; live very economically

Term

skinflint

Definition

stingy person; miser

Term

skulduggery

Definition

dishonest behavior

Term

skulk

Definition

move furtively and secretly

Term

slag

Definition

residue from smelting metal; dross; waste matter

Term

slake

Definition

quench; sate

Term

slapdash

Definition

haphazard; careless; sloppy

Term

sleazy

Definition

flimsy; unsubstantial

Term

sleight

Definition

dexterity

Term

slipshod

Definition

untidy or slovenly; shabby

Term

sough

Definition

cast off

Term

slovenly

Definition

untidy; careless in work habits

Term

sluggard

Definition

lazy person

Term

sluice

Definition

artificial channel for directing or controlling the flow of water

Term

smattering

Definition

slight knowledge

Term

smelt

Definition

melt or blend ores, changing their chemical composition

Term

smirk

Definition

conceited smile

Term

run at the nose; snuffle; whine

Definition

Term

sodden

Definition

soaked; dull, as if from drink

Term

sojourn

Definition

temporary stay

Term

solecism

Definition

construction that is flagrantly incorrect grammatically

Term

solicitous

Definition

worried, concerned

Term

soliloquy

Definition

talking to oneself

Term

solstice

Definition

point at which the sun is farthest from the equator

Term

soluble

Definition

able to be dissolved; able to be worked out

Term

somatic

Definition

pertaining to the body; physical

Term

somnabulist

Definition

sleepwalker

Term

somnolent

Definition

half asleep

Term

sonorous

Definition

resonant

Term

sophist

Definition

teacher of philosophy; quibbler; employer of fallacious reasoning

Term

sophistry

Definition

seemingly plausible but fallacious reasoning

Term

spangle

Definition

small metalic piece sewn to clothing for ornamentation

Term

spartan

Definition

lacking luxury or comfort; sternly disciplined

Term

spate

Definition

sudden flood

Term

spatial

Definition

relating to space

Term

spectral

Definition

ghostly

Term

spectrum

Definition

colored band produced when a beam of light passes through a prism

Term

splice

Definition

fasten together; unite

Term

spoonerism

Definition

accidental transposition of sounds in successive words

Term

sportive

Definition

playful

Term

spruce

Definition

neat and trim

Term

spry

Definition

vigorously active; nimble

Term

spurn

Definition

reject; scorn

Term

squat

Definition

stocky; short and thick

Term

staid

Definition

sober; sedate

Term

stanch

Definition

check the flow of blood

Term

stanza

Definition

division of a poem

Term

stellar

Definition

pertaining to the stars

Term

stem

Definition

check the flow

Term

stentorian

Definition

extremely loud

Term

stereotype

Definition

fixed and unvarying representation; standardized mental picture, often reflecting prejudice

Term

stilted

Definition

bombastic; stiffly pompous

Term

stint (n)

Definition

supply; allotted amount; assigned portion of work

Term

stipple

Definition

paint or draw with dots

Term

stockade

Definition

wooden enclosure or pen; fixed line of posts used as defensive barrier

Term

stodgy

Definition

stuffy; boringly conservative

Term

stoic

Definition

impassive; unmoved by joy or grief

Term

stoke

Definition

stir up a fire; feed plentifully

Term

stolid

Definition

dull; impassive

Term

stratagem

Definition

clever trick; deceptive scheme

Term

stratum

Definition

layer of earth's surface; layer of society

Term

strew

Definition

spread randomly; sprinkle; scatter

Term

stricture

Definition

critical comments; severe and adverse criticism

Term

strident

Definition

loud and harsh; insistent

Term

stringent

Definition

binding; rigid

Term

studied

Definition

unspontaneous; deliberate; thoughtful

Term

stultify

Definition

cause to appear or become stupid or inconsistent; frustrate or hinder

Term

stygian

Definition

gloomy; hellish; deathly

Term

subaltern

Definition

subordinate

Term

sublimate

Definition

refine; purify

Term

sublime

Definition

exalted; noble and uplifting; utter

Term

suborn

Definition

persuade to act unlawfully (especially to commit perjury)

Term

subsidy

Definition

direct financial aid by government, etc

Term

subsistence

Definition

existence; means of support; livelihood

Term

subsume

Definition

include; encompass

Term

subterfuge

Definition

pretense; evasion

Term

succor

Definition

aid; assist; comfort

Term

suffragist

Definition

advocate of voting rights (for women)

Term

suffuse

Definition

spread over

Term

sully

Definition

tarnish; soil

Term

sultry

Definition

sweltering

Term

sunder

Definition

separate; part

Term

superannuated

Definition

retired or disqualified because of age

Term

supercilious

Definition

arrogant; condescending; patronizing

Term

supererogatory

Definition

superfluous; more than needed or demanded

Term

supernumerary

Definition

person or thing in excess of what is necessary; extra

Term

supersede

Definition

cause to be set aside; replace; make obsolete

Term

supple

Definition

flexible; pliant

Term

suppliant

Definition

entreating; beseeching; asking earnestly; imploring urgently

Term

supposititious

Definition

assumed; counterfeit; hypothetical

Term

surfeit (v)

Definition

satiate; stuff; indulge to excess in anything

Term

surly

Definition

rude; cross

Term

swarthy

Definition

dark; dusky

Term

swathe

Definition

wrap around; bandage

Term

swelter

Definition

be oppressed by heat

Term

swill

Definition

drink greedily

Term

sybarite

Definition

lover of luxury

Term

sycophant

Definition

servile flatterer; bootlicker; yes man

Term

syllogism

Definition

logical formula consisting of a major premise, a minor premise and a conclusion; deceptive or specious argument

Term

sylvan

Definition

pertaining to the woods; rustic

Term

synchronous

Definition

similarly timed; simultaneous with

Term

synoptic

Definition

providing a general overview; summary

Term

taciturn

Definition

habitually silent; talking little

Term

talisman

Definition

charm

Term

tanner

Definition

person who turns animal hides into leather

Term

tantalize

Definition

tease; torture with disappointment

Term

tantamount

Definition

equivalent in effect or value

Term

taper

Definition

candle

Term

tarry

Definition

delay; dawdle

Term

tatty

Definition

worn and shabby; bedraggled

Term

taut

Definition

tight; ready

Term

tautological

Definition

needlessly repetitious

Term

tawdry

Definition

cheap and gaudy

Term

taxonomist

Definition

specialist in classifying (animals, etc.)

Term

temerity

Definition

boldness; rashness

Term

temper

Definition

moderate; town down or restrain; *toughen*

Term

temperate

Definition

restrained; self-controlled; moderate in respect to temperature

Term

tempestuous

Definition

stormy; impassioned; violent

Term

tempo

Definition

speed of music

Term

temporal

Definition

not lasting forever; limited by time; secular

Term

temporize

Definition

act evasively to gain time; avoid committing oneself

Term

tendentious

Definition

having an aim; biased; designed to further a cause

Term

tensile

Definition

capable of being stretched

Term

tentative

Definition

hesitant; not fully worked out or developed; experimental; not definite or positive

Term

tepid

Definition

lukewarm

Term

terminus

Definition

last stop of railroad

Term

tertiary

Definition

third

Term

tesselated

Definition

inlaid; mosaic

Term

testator

Definition

maker of a will

Term

thematic

Definition

relating to a unifying motif or idea

Term

thespian

Definition

pertaining to drama

Term

thrall

Definition

slave; bondage

Term

throes

Definition

violent anguish

Term

throng

Definition

crowd

Term

throttle

Definition

strangle

Term

tiller

Definition

handle used to move boat's rudder (to steer)

Term

timbre

Definition

quality of a musical tone produced by a musical instrument

Term

timorous

Definition

fearful; demonstrating fear

Term

tipple

Definition

drink (alcoholic beverages) frequently

Term

tithe

Definition

tax of one-tenth

Term

titillate

Definition

tickle

Term

titter

Definition

nervous laugh

Term

titular

Definition

having the title of an office without the obligations

Term

toady

Definition

servile flatterer; yes man

Term

tome

Definition

large volume

Term

tonsure

Definition

shaving of the head; especially by person entering religious orders

Term

torrent

Definition

rushing stream; flood

Term

torrid

Definition

passionate; hot or scorching

Term

torso

Definition

trunk of statue with head and limbs missing; human trunk

Term

totter

Definition

move unsteadily; sway, as if about to fall

Term

touchstone

Definition

stone used to test the fineness of gold alloys; criterion

Term

tract

Definition

pamphlet; a region of indefinite size

Term

traduce

Definition

expose to slander

Term

transcendent

Definition

surpassing; exceeding ordinary limits; superior

Term

transgression

Definition

violation of a law; sin

Term

transitory

Definition

impermanent; fleeting

Term

translucent

Definition

partially transparent

Term

transmute

Definition

change; convert to something different

Term

transport

Definition

strong emotion

Term

trappings

Definition

outward decorations; ornaments

Term

travail

Definition

painful physical or mental labor; drudgery; torment

Term

travesty

Definition

harshly distorted imitation; parody; debased likeness

Term

tremulous

Definition

trembling; wavering

Term

trenchant

Definition

forceful and vigorous; cutting

Term

trepidation

Definition

fear; nervous apprehension

Term

tribute

Definition

tax levied by a ruler; mark of respect

Term

trifling

Definition

trivial; unimportant

Term

trite

Definition

hackneyed; commonplace

Term

trivia

Definition

trifles; unimportant matters

Term

troth

Definition

pledge of good faith especially in betrothal(meaning entering a formal agreement to marry)

Term

truculence

Definition

aggressiveness; ferocity

Term

truism

Definition

self-evident truth

Term

truncate

Definition

cut the top off

Term

tryst

Definition

meeting

Term

tumid

Definition

swollen; pompous; bombastic

Term

tundra

Definition

rolling, treeless plain in Siberia and arctic North America

Term

turbid

Definition

muddy; having the sediment disturbed

Term

tureen

Definition

deep dish for serving soup

Term

turpitude

Definition

depravity

Term

tutelary

Definition

protective; pertaining to a guardianship

Term

tyro

Definition

beginner; novice

Term

ulterior

Definition

situated beyond; unstated and often questionable

Term

ultimatum

Definition

last demand; warning

Term

umbrage

Definition

resentment; anger; sense of injury or insult

Term

unassailable

Definition

not subject to question; not open to attack

Term

unassuming

Definition

modest

Term

unbridled

Definition

violent

Term

uncouth

Definition

outlandish; clumsy; boorish

Term

unction

Definition

the act of anointing with oil

Term

unctuous

Definition

oily; bland; insincerely suave

Term

unearthly

Definition

not earthly; weird

Term

unerringly

Definition

infallibly

Term

unexceptionable

Definition

not offering any basis for criticism; entirely acceptable

Term

unfledged

Definition

immature

Term

unfrock

Definition

to strip a priest or minister of church authority

Term

ungainly

Definition

awkward; clumsy; unwieldly

Term

unguent

Definition

ointment

Term

unimpeachable

Definition

blameless and exemplary

Term

unmitigated

Definition

unrelieved or immoderate; absolute

Term

unobtrusive

Definition

inconspicuous; not blatant

Term

unprepossessing

Definition

unattractive

Term

unrequited

Definition

not reciprocated

Term

unsullied

Definition

untarnished

Term

untenable

Definition

indefensible; not able to be maintained

Term

untoward

Definition

unfortunate or unlucky; adverse; unexpected

Term

untrammeled

Definition

without limits or restrictions; unrestrained

Term

unwieldy

Definition

awkward; cumbersome; unmanageable

Term

unwonted

Definition

unaccustomed

Term

upbraid

Definition

severely scold; reprimand

Term

upshot

Definition

outcome

Term

urchin

Definition

mischievous child (usually a boy)

Term

ursine

Definition

bearlike; pertaining to a bear

Term

usury

Definition

lending money at illegal rates of interest

Term

uxorious

Definition

excessively devoted to one's wife

Term

vacuous

Definition

empty; lacking in ideas; stupid

Term

vagrant (adj)

Definition

stray; random

Term

vagrant (n)

Definition

homeless wanderer

Term

vainglorious

Definition

boastful; excessively conceited

Term

valedictory

Definition

pertaining to farewell

Term

vanguard

Definition

forerunners; advance forces

Term

vapid

Definition

dull and unimaginative; insipid and flavorless

Term

vassal

Definition

in feudalism, one who held land of a superior lord

Term

vaunted

Definition

boasted; bragged; highly publicized

Term

veer

Definition

change in direction

Term

vegetate

Definition

live in a monotonous way

Term

venal

Definition

capable of being bribed

Term

vendetta

Definition

blood feud

Term

veneer

Definition

thin layer; cover

Term

venial

Definition

forgivable; trivial

Term

venison

Definition

meat of a deer

Term

ventral

Definition

abdominal

Term

venturesome

Definition

bold

Term

verbiage

Definition

pompous array of words

Term

verdant

Definition

green; lush in vegetation

Term

verdigris

Definition

green coating on copper that has been exposed to the weather

Term

verisimilar

Definition

probable or likely; having the appearance of truth

Term

verisimilitude

Definition

appearance of truth; likelihood

Term

veritible

Definition

actual; being truly so; not false or imaginary

Term

verity

Definition

quality of being true; lasting truth or principle

Term

vernacular

Definition

living language; natural style

Term

vernal

Definition

pertaining to the spring

Term

verve

Definition

entusiasm; liveliness

Term

vestige

Definition

trace; remains

Term

viable

Definition

practical or workable; capable of maintaining life

Term

viand

Definition

food

Term

vicarious

Definition

acting as a substitute; done by a deputy

Term

vicissitude

Definition

change of fortune

Term

victuals

Definition

food

Term

vignette

Definition

picture; short literary sketch

Term

vindicate

Definition

clear from blame; exonerate; justify or support

Term

vintner

Definition

winemaker; seller of wine

Term

virile

Definition

manly

Term

virtual

Definition

in essence; for practical purposes

Term

virtuoso

Definition

highly skilled artist

Term

virulent

Definition

extremely poisonous; hostile; bitter

Term

virus

Definition

disease communicator

Term

visage

Definition

face; appearance

Term

visceral

Definition

felt in one's inner organs; relating to deep inner feelings rather than intellect

Term

viscid

Definition

adhesive; gluey

Term

vitiate

Definition

spoil the effect of; make inoperative

Term

vitreous

Definition

pertaining to or resembling glass

Term

vitriolic; corrosive; sarcastic

Definition

Term

vituperative

Definition

abusive; scolding

Term

vivisection

Definition

act of dissecting living animals

Term

vixen

Definition

female fox; ill-tempered woman

Term

vogue

Definition

popular fashion

Term

volition

Definition

act of making a conscious choice

Term

voluble

Definition

fluent; glib; talkative

Term

vouchesafe

Definition

grant condescendingly; guarantee

Term

vulpine

Definition

like a fox; crafty

Term

waft

Definition

moved gently by wind or waves

Term

waggish

Definition

mischievous; humorous; tricky

Term

wan

Definition

having a pale or stickly color; pallid

Term

wangle

Definition

wiggle out; fake

Term

wanton

Definition

unrestrained; willfully malicious; unchaste

Term

warble

Definition

sing; wabble

Term

warble

Definition

singl; babble

Term

warren

Definition

tunnels in which rabbits live; crowded conditions in which people live

Term

wastrel

Definition

profligate

Term

wax

Definition

increase; grow

Term

waylay

Definition

ambush; lie in wait

Term

wean

Definition

accustom a baby not to nurse; give up a cherished activity

Term

welt

Definition

mark from a beating or whipping

Term

welter

Definition

turmoil; bewildering jumble

Term

welter

Definition

wallow

Term

wheedle

Definition

cajole; coax; deceive by flattery

Term

whelp

Definition

young wolf, dog, tiger, etc

Term

whet

Definition

sharpen; stimulate

Term

whiff

Definition

puff or gust (of air, scent); hint

Term

whimsical

Definition

capricious

Term

whinny

Definition

neigh like a horse

Term

whit

Definition

smallest speck; shred; tiny bit

Term

whittle

Definition

pare; cut off bits

Term

whorl

Definition

ring of leaves around stem; ring

Term

wily

Definition

cunning; artful

Term

windfall

Definition

fallen fruit; unexpected lucky event

Term

winnow

Definition

sift; separate good parts from bad

Term

winsome

Definition

agreeable; gracious; engaging

Term

wispy

Definition

thin; slight; barely discernible

Term

wistful

Definition

vaguely longing; sadly pensive

Term

witless

Definition

foolish; idiodic

Term

witticism

Definition

witty saying; wisecrack

Term

wizened

Definition

withered; shriveled

Term

wont

Definition

custom; habitual procedure

Term

wrangle

Definition

quarrel; obtain through arguing; herd cattle

Term

writ

Definition

written command issued by a court

Term

yen

Definition

longing; urge

Term

yeoman

Definition

man owning small estate; middle-class farmer

Term

yoke

Definition

join together, unite

Term

yore

Definition

time past

Term

zenith

Definition

point directly overheard in the sky; summit

Term

zephyr

Definition

gentle breeze; west wind

Flashcard Machine - create, study and share online flash cards

Shared Flashcard Set

Details

Additional English Flashcards

Cards Return to Set Details

My Flashcards

Flashcard Library

Browse

About

Help

Mobile