Swain - Week 1 & 2

Question 1

Iconoclast (noun)

Answer 1

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.

Question 2

Idiom (noun)

Answer 2

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.

Question 3

Idiosyncrasy (noun)

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Ignominious (adjective)

Answer 4

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.

Question 5

Idyllic (adjective)

Answer 5

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.

Question 6

Jaded (adjective)

Answer 6

tired, exhausted, wearied;

EXAMPLE: After staying up all night working on the paper, she was jaded and in serious need of sleep.

Question 7

Jaunty (adjective)

Answer 7

having a cheerful, lively, and self-confident air, chippy;

EXAMPLE: After winning the state tournament, he was quite jaunty,and everyone could tell because he was sporting a big Kool-Aid smile.

Question 8

Jeopardize (verb)

Answer 8

pose a threat to; present a danger to;

EXAMPLE: essentially ruin or mess up; He is jeopardizing his career with his constant run-ins with the law; he could lose everything if he doesn’t get it together.

Question 9

Jocular (adjective)

Answer 9

characterized by jokes and good humor.

EXAMPLE: With his jocular nature, he is a shoe-in for being voted class clown.

Question 10

Judicious (adjective)

Answer 10

prudent, wise:

EXAMPLE: With his judicious nature, he would make an excellent judge, which is why I am voting for him.