Vocab 13 Flashcards
iconoclast
(noun): someone who attacks cherished ideas or traditional institutions; traditionally, the term has had negative connotation to mean aggressor or disruptor; however, to be called an iconoclast today is usually kind of cool — they’re rugged individualists, bold thinkers who take pride in challenging traditions.
EXAMPLE: Kim likes to think of herself as an iconoclast whose mission in life is to break down the established traditions that she believes prohibits women from moving beyond gender stereotypes that have led to discrimination and inequality.
idiom
(noun): a figurative expression whose meaning cannot be inferred from the meanings of the words that make it up; figure of speech which can be particular to a certain group.
EXAMPLE: My teacher advised me to avoid idioms in my writing because the meaning could possibly get lost if the reader is not aware of the expression.
idiosyncrasy
(noun): a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individual
EXAMPLE: With every new school year, students have to get used to the different idiosyncrasies that their new teachers bring to their classrooms.
ignominious
(adjective): conduct or character deserving or bringing disgrace or shame
EXAMPLE: Many people in the country were appalled by the ignominious behavior of the prime minister, whom they thought should be an example of humility and grace by which we all should follow.
idyllic
(adjective): charming, simple, or serene
EXAMPLE: Being fed up with the materialism that she had surrounded herself with, Susan decided to sell her ostentatious 5th Avenue apartment for an idyllic house in the country.
