Advanced Vocab Words - Set 4 Flashcards
Learn to understand and effectively use 100 advanced vocabulary words. Improve your test scores, or simply be more articulate in your daily life. Each word is used in context in a sample sentence and includes synonyms and a pronunciation guide. (200 cards)
1
Q
Define:
aseptic
(uh-sep-tik)
A
adj. free of pathogens or germs
adj. with little or no emotion
Doctors are always careful to use aseptic surgical equipment to prevent infection.
Prefix: a- (from Greek, meaning “not” or “without”); Root: sept (from Greek sēptikos, meaning “putrefying”)
2
Q
Define:
prolix
(proh-liks)
A
adj. wordy or prolonged; tedious in length
The prolix manuscript took days to read.
Prefix: pro- (from Latin, meaning “forward”); Root: lix (from Latin liquere, meaning “to flow”)
3
Q
Define:
foolhardy
(fool-hahr-dee)
A
adj. reckless, unwisely bold; thoughtlessly rash
It was a foolhardy attempt to climb the Sears Tower that went very wrong.
Root: fool (from Old French fol, meaning “foolish”); Suffix: -hardy (from Old French hardi, meaning “bold”)
4
Q
Define:
picaresque
(pik-uh-resk)
A
adj. involving clever rogues in episodes of comedy or adventure
Huck Finn is a picaresque hero.
Root: picaro (from Spanish, meaning “rogue” or “rascal”); Suffix: -esque (from French, meaning “in the style of”)
5
Q
Define:
raucous
(raw-kuhs)
A
adj. rough sounding, harsh
adj. boisterous, rowdy, disorderly
The raucous laughter went on long into the night.
Root: rauc (from Latin raucus, meaning “hoarse”)
6
Q
Define:
providential
(prov-ih-den-shuhl)
A
adj. to occur as if from divine intervention or great time
His providential recovery, when it seemed that he would surely succumb, brought hope to many.
Root: provident (from Latin providentia, meaning “foresight”); Suffix: -ial (forming adjectives)
7
Q
Define:
antipodal
(an-tip-uh-dl)
A
adj. diametrically opposed to, polar opposite
adj. on the opposite side of the earth
The couple had totally antipodal personalities, but they enjoyed each other’s company.
Prefix: anti- (from Greek, meaning “opposite”); Root: pod (from Greek pous, meaning “foot”); Suffix: -al (forming adjectives)
8
Q
Define:
pillory
(pill-uh-ree)
A
v. to punish; to hold up for public scorning
n. a wooden framework with holes for head and hands, in which criminal offenders are held
Dan was pilloried in class for his inability to spell “potato”.
Root: pillar (from Old French pilori, meaning “pillar”)
9
Q
Define:
infelicitous
(in-fuh-liss-ih-tuss)
A
adj. unfortunate, awkward, inappropriate
In Thailand, it is considered infelicitous to touch someone’s head.
Prefix: in- (from Latin, meaning “not”); Root: felicit (from Latin felicitas, meaning “happiness”); Suffix: -ous (forming adjectives)
10
Q
Define:
dilatory
(dil-uh-tawr-ee)
A
adj. tending to delay, put off, or procrastinate
adj. intended to slow progress
Courtney employed dilatory tactics in the debate in order to collect her thoughts, but the judges noticed and she was docked a point.
Root: dilat (from Latin dilatus, meaning “deferred”); Suffix: -ory (forming adjectives)
11
Q
Define:
overweening
(oh-ver-wee-ning)
A
adj. presumptuously arrogant or conceited; overconfident, overbearing
Ian made the overweening assumption that people would rush to help him.
Prefix: over- (meaning “excessive”); Root: ween (from Old English wenan, meaning “to think”); Suffix: -ing (forming adjectives)
12
Q
Define:
neologism
(nee-awl-uh-djiz-uhm)
A
n. the creation of new words, expressions, or usages for words
“Technophile” is a neologism, just as “UFO” once was.
Prefix: neo- (from Greek, meaning “new”); Root: log (from Greek logos, meaning “word”); Suffix: -ism (forming nouns indicating a practice or system)
13
Q
Define:
lassitude
(lass-ih-tood)
A
n. a state of listless exhaustion, weakness, or weariness of the mind or body
The extreme heat led to a general lassitude that settled on the village from May to October.
Root: lass (from Latin lassus, meaning “weary”); Suffix: -itude (forming nouns indicating a state or condition)
14
Q
Define:
locution
(loh-kyoo-shuhn)
A
n. a particular word, phrase, or style used by a person or group
n. style of speaking, phraseology
The newcomers were fascinated by the Aussie’s locution.
Root: locut (from Latin loqui, meaning “to speak”); Suffix: -ion (forming nouns indicating an action or condition)
15
Q
Define:
jocose
(joh-kohss)
A
adj. characterized by a joking or humorous manner
The jocose innkeeper could always be counted on for a bit of levity.
Root: joc (from Latin jocus, meaning “joke”); Suffix: -ose (forming adjectives indicating fullness or abundance)
16
Q
Define:
rend
(rend)
A
v. to forcibly take
v. to tear apart
The three-year-old decided she wants to play with the teddy bear, so she rended it from her infant sister’s hands.
Root: rend (from Old English rendan, meaning “to tear”)
17
Q
Define:
stanch
(stawnch)
A
v. to cease the flow of a liquid (esp. blood)
The doctor’s attempt to stanch the flow of blood eventually succeeded, and the patient’s blood pressure stabilized.
Root: stanch (from Latin stare, meaning “to stand”)
18
Q
Define:
solder
(sod-er)
A
v. to weld, fuse, or join (esp. metals)
Harry soldered the bits of scrap metal together to make a pet door.
Root: solder (from Latin solidare, meaning “to make solid”)
19
Q
Define:
demure
(duh-myoor)
A
adj. modest, shy
Lindsay was demure and had a tough time opening up to new people.
Prefix: de- (from Latin, meaning “down” or “away”); Root: mure (from Old French murer, meaning “to wall”)
20
Q
Define:
insensible
(in-sen-suh-buhl)
A
adj. unconscious, unresponsive
The boxer lay insensible on the floor of the ring.
Prefix: in- (from Latin, meaning “not”); Root: sens (from Latin sentire, meaning “to feel”); Suffix: -ible (forming adjectives indicating capability)
21
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. free of pathogens or germs
adj. with little or no emotion
A
aseptic
(uh-sep-tik)
synonyms: barren, clean; withdrawn, introverted, sterile, unemotional
The hospital room was kept aseptic to prevent infections.
His aseptic demeanor made it hard to read his feelings.
22
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. wordy or prolonged; tedious in length
A
prolix
(proh-liks)
synonyms: lengthy, rambling, verbose, long-winded, tedious
The professor’s prolix lecture caused several students to lose focus.
23
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. reckless, unwisely bold; thoughtlessly rash
A
foolhardy
(fool-hahr-dee)
synonyms: daredevil, venturous, risky, audacious, imprudent
His foolhardy decision to drive through the storm led to disaster.
24
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. involving clever rogues in episodes of comedy or adventure
A
picaresque
(pik-uh-resk)
synonyms: roguish, satirical, adventurous, playful, whimsical
The novel’s picaresque hero was always getting into mischief.
25
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. rough sounding, harsh
adj. boisterous, rowdy, disorderly
raucous
| (**raw**-kuhs)
## Footnote
synonyms: noisy, chaotic, loud, clamorous, disorderly
The _raucous_ laughter filled the noisy bar.
The _raucous_ crowd disrupted the concert.
26
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. to occur as if from divine intervention
providential
| (prov-ih-**den**-shuhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: accidental, convenient, fortunate, serendipitous, timely
Their _providential_ meeting led to a lifelong friendship.
27
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. diametrically opposed to, polar opposite
adj. on the opposite side of the earth
antipodal
| (an-**tip**-uh-dl)
## Footnote
synonyms: opposed, contrary, counter, opposite, divergent
Their views on politics were _antipodal_.
Australia and Argentina are _antipodal_ regions.
28
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to punish; to hold up for public scorning
n. a wooden framework with holes for head and hands, in which criminal offenders are held
pillory
| (**pill**-uh-ree)
## Footnote
synonyms: ridicule, abuse, condemn, chastise
He was _pilloried_ in the press for his controversial remarks.
In medieval times, criminals were placed in the _pillory_ as punishment.
29
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. unfortunate, awkward, inappropriate
infelicitous
| (in-fuh-**liss**-ih-tuss)
## Footnote
synonyms: improper, ill-suited, inopportune, unsuitable
His _infelicitous_ comment ruined the otherwise pleasant dinner.
30
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. tending to delay, put off, or procrastinate
adj. intended to slow progress
dilatory
| (**dil**-uh-tawr-ee)
## Footnote
synonyms: dallying, sluggish, tardy, procrastinating, lagging
Her _dilatory_ approach to her work caused deadlines to be missed.
The _dilatory_ tactics during the meeting frustrated the team.
31
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. presumptuously arrogant or conceited, overconfident, overbearing
overweening
| (oh-ver-**wee**-ning)
## Footnote
synonyms: brash, conceited, pompous, hubristic, egotistical
His _overweening_ arrogance made him unpopular among his colleagues.
32
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the creation of new words, expressions, or usages for words
neologism
| (nee-**awl**-uh-djiz-uhm)
## Footnote
synonyms: synthetic word, new phrase, coinage, innovation
The tech industry is full of _neologisms_ that are hard to keep up with.
33
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a state of listless exhaustion, weakness, or weariness of the mind or body
lassitude
| (**lass**-ih-tood)
## Footnote
synonyms: lethargy, weariness, fatigue, listlessness, apathy
After the long hike, she was overcome with _lassitude_.
34
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a particular word, phrase, or style used by a person or group
n. style of speaking, phraseology
locution
| (loh-**kyoo**-shuhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: phrasing, expression, lingo, vernacular, terminology
His _locution_ was filled with regional slang that made him hard to understand.
The speaker's _locution_ was elegant and engaging.
35
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. characterized by a joking or humorous manner
jocose
| (joh-**kohss**)
## Footnote
synonyms: facetious, humorous, funny, playful, lighthearted
His _jocose_ personality made him the life of the party.
36
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to forcibly take
v. to tear apart
rend
| (**rend**)
## Footnote
synonyms: break, divide, rip, tear, split
He tried to _rend_ the book from her hands.
37
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to cease the flow of a liquid (esp. blood)
stanch
| (**stawnch**)
## Footnote
synonyms: halt, stop, quench, check
The nurse quickly _stanched_ the bleeding.
38
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to weld, fuse, or join (esp. metals)
solder
| (**sod**-er)
## Footnote
synonyms: fasten, braze, fuse, bind
He carefully _soldered_ the broken circuit board back together.
39
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. modest, shy
demure
| (duh-**myoor**)
## Footnote
synonyms: reserved, bashful, coy, retiring, unassuming
She gave a _demure_ smile when complimented.
40
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. unconscious, unresponsive
insensible
| (in-**sen**-suh-buhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: cold, numb, inanimate, unfeeling, unaware
He was _insensible_ after being hit on the head.
41
# Define:
rail
| (**reyl**)
v. to complain bitterly
## Footnote
The citizens _railed_ against the injustice of the federal land grab in tersely-worded editorials and letters to the editor.
42
# Define:
noisome
| (**noy**-suhm)
adj. unpleasant (smell) or harmful
## Footnote
The _noisome_ odor of the garbage nauseated Audrey.
43
# Define:
mellifluous
| (muh-**lif**-loo-uhs)
adj. sweetly flowing (esp. of words or sounds)
## Footnote
Lucy's _mellifluous_ voice was noted by her interviewer.
44
# Define:
inveterate
| (in-**vet**-er-it)
adj. established, habitual, deep-rooted
## Footnote
It was Tony's _inveterate_ preference to drink orange juice every morning.
45
# Define:
coterie
| (**koh**-tuh-ree)
n. a small or exclusive group of people with common interests
## Footnote
The _coterie_ of musicians began to meet on Tuesday nights and eventually established a weekly concert series.
46
# Define:
impugn
| (im-**pyoon**)
v. to challenge or attack one's beliefs or motives as false
## Footnote
The candidate went too far when he began to _impugn_ the character of his opponent's husband.
47
# Define:
voluble
| (**vol**-yuh-buhl)
adj. able to speak easily and in quantity, glib, talkative
## Footnote
The _voluble_ speaker talked late into the night.
48
# Define:
misogynist
| (mih-**sodj**-uh-nist)
n. one who hates women
## Footnote
The song contained several lyrics that were so offensive to women that the singer was immediately labeled a _misogynist_.
49
# Define:
pedagogy
| (**ped**-uh-goh-djee)
n. the art or profession of training, teaching, or instructing
## Footnote
Training in _pedagogy_ can't prepare you for manic third graders.
50
# Define:
ambient
| (**am**-bee-uhnt)
adj. relating to the immediate surroundings; surrounding environment
## Footnote
The low _ambient_ lighting made for a romantic dinner setting.
51
# Define:
inquest
| (**in**-kwest)
n. a judicial inquiry of some matter held before a jury
n. an investigation, inquiry
## Footnote
The police opened an _inquest_ into the cause of death.
52
# Define:
preen
| (**preen**)
v. to primp, to dress up
v. to clean fur or feathers of an animal
## Footnote
The bird _preened_ its feathers with its beak for a few moments before taking flight.
53
# Define:
parry
| (**pear**-ee)
v. to block, evade, or ward off
## Footnote
The politician _parried_ the reporter's questions with a few of her own.
54
# Define:
guy
| (**gahy**)
n. rope or cord attached to something as a brace
## Footnote
I was nervous that the _guy_ for the pulley would snap.
55
# Define:
sallow
| (**sal**-oh)
adj. of a sickly yellowish hue or complexion
## Footnote
There was a large number of _sallow_-looking patients in the doctor's office.
56
# Define:
plangent
| (**plan**-djuhnt)
adj. pounding, thundering, resounding
## Footnote
The _plangent_ honking of geese flying overhead jolted me awake.
57
# Define:
peripatetic
| (per-uh-puh-**tet**-ik)
adj. itinerant, nomadic
## Footnote
A _peripatetic_ existence can take its toll on your relationships with the ones you love.
58
# Define:
rue
| (**roo**)
v. to regret; to feel or experience remorse
## Footnote
I _rued_ the day I ever let her go.
59
# Define:
macerate
| (**mass**-uh-reyt)
v. to soften by steeping in a liquid, or decompose
v. to emaciate; to starve
## Footnote
Now, we will _macerate_ the rest of the melon in hot water so we can use it to flavor the cream.
60
# Define:
callow
| (**kal**-oh)
adj. lacking maturity or experience
## Footnote
A _callow_ young man was tormenting the elderly in the park.
61
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to complain bitterly
rail
| (**reyl**)
## Footnote
synonyms: berate, abuse, complain, rant, criticize
She _railed_ against the unfair treatment she received.
62
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. offensive or harmful
noisome
| (**noy**-suhm)
## Footnote
synonyms: repulsive, dangerous, foul, malodorous
The _noisome_ fumes made it difficult to breathe.
63
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. sweetly flowing (esp. of words or sounds)
mellifluous
| (muh-**lif**-loo-uhs)
## Footnote
synonyms: euphonic, harmonic, mellow, pleasing, smooth, soothing
Her _mellifluous_ voice captivated the audience.
64
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. established, habitual, deep-rooted
inveterate
| (in-**vet**-er-it)
## Footnote
synonyms: chronic, habitual, ingrained, persistent, entrenched
He was an _inveterate_ smoker despite numerous attempts to quit.
65
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a small or exclusive group of people with common interests
coterie
| (**koh**-tuh-ree)
## Footnote
synonyms: clique, crowd, collective, group, association
She belonged to an elite _coterie_ of art collectors.
66
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to challenge or attack ones beliefs or motives as false
impugn
| (im-**pyoon**)
## Footnote
synonyms: criticize, challenge, dispute, question
He _impugned_ her integrity during the heated debate.
67
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. able to speak easily and in quantity, glib, talkative
voluble
| (**vol**-yuh-buhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: articulate, chatty, conversational, talkative, garrulous
The _voluble_ speaker entertained the crowd for hours.
68
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. one who hates women
misogynist
| (mih-**sodj**-uh-nist)
## Footnote
synonyms: sexist, chauvinist, woman-hater, male chauvinist
The _misogynist_ was known for his discriminatory views.
69
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the art or profession of training, teaching, or instructing
pedagogy
| (**ped**-uh-goh-djee)
## Footnote
synonyms: education, apprenticeship, discipline, instruction, teaching
She excelled in _pedagogy_, making complex subjects accessible to students.
70
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. relating to the immediate surroundings; surrounding environment
ambient
| (**am**-bee-uhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: environment, atmosphere, surrounding, environmental
The _ambient_ noise of the city made it hard to concentrate.
71
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a judicial inquiry of some matter held before a jury.
n. an investigation, inquiry
inquest
| (**in**-kwest)
## Footnote
synonyms: a judicial inquiry, an official review before a panel, investigation, examination
The court held an _inquest_ into the cause of the accident.
72
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to primp, to dress up
v. to clean fur or feathers of an animal
preen
| (**preen**)
## Footnote
synonyms: beautify, groom, brush, doll up, tidy, arrange
She spent hours _preening_ before the big event.
The bird _preened_ its feathers in the sunlight.
73
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to block, evade, or ward off
parry
| (**pear**-ee)
## Footnote
synonyms: block, dodge, circumvent, deflect, counter
He skillfully _parried_ his opponent's attack.
74
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. rope or cord attached to something as a brace
guy
| (**gahy**)
## Footnote
synonyms: cable, wire, rope, support, line
The tent was secured with a _guy_ to withstand the wind.
75
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. of a sickly yellowish hue or complexion
sallow
| (**sal**-oh)
## Footnote
synonyms: pale, unhealthy-looking, jaundiced, sickly, wan
Her _sallow_ complexion was a sign of her illness.
76
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. pounding, thundering, resounding
plangent
| (**plan**-djuhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: booming, loud, roaring, mournful, melancholy
The _plangent_ roar of the waves echoed through the cliffs.
77
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. itinerant, nomadic
peripatetic
| (per-uh-puh-**tet**-ik)
## Footnote
synonyms: migrant, vagrant, wandering, traveling, roving
His _peripatetic_ lifestyle took him all over the world.
78
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to regret; to feel or experience remorse
rue
| (**roo**)
## Footnote
synonyms: feel remorse, grieve for, lament, repent
He _rued_ the day he made that fateful decision.
79
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to soften by steeping in a liquid, or decompose
v. to emaciate; to starve
macerate
| (**mass**-uh-reyt)
## Footnote
synonyms: soak, dissolve, break down, soften
The fruit was left to _macerate_ in the wine overnight.
The harsh conditions caused the prisoners to _macerate_.
80
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. lacking maturity or experience
callow
| (**kal**-oh)
## Footnote
synonyms: immature, foolish, green, inexperienced
The _callow_ youth made many naive mistakes.
81
# Define:
wistful
| (**wist**-fuhl)
adj. yearning, longing, or melancholy
## Footnote
The child stared _wistfully_ out the window for days, waiting for her dog to return.
82
# Define:
corroborate
| (kuh-**rob**-uh-rehyt)
v. to confirm or validate
## Footnote
The mailman _corroborated_ the alleged thief's story, confirming that he had merely been passing by when the robbery occurred.
83
# Define:
couch
| (**couch**)
v. to express in indirect terms; to frame in a certain way
## Footnote
Her criticism was _couched_ in flattering terms so that her coworker wouldn't take offense.
84
# Define:
innervate
| (ih-**nur**-veyt)
v. to give nervous energy to; to supply with nerves
## Footnote
The team was _innervated_ by the coach's pep talk and approached the second half with renewed energy.
85
# Define:
impecunious
| (im-puh-**kyoo**-nee-us)
adj. poor; without any money
## Footnote
A graduate student generally leads an _impecunious_ existence.
86
# Define:
grovel
| (**gruhv**-uhl)
v. to behave in a servile manner to receive forgiveness or a favor
v. to kneel with one's head down
## Footnote
The servants _groveled_ at the king's throne.
87
# Define:
epicurean
| (ep-ih-kyoo-**ree**-uhn)
adj. characterized by luxury (esp. in terms of food and drink) or by a propensity for indulging in luxury
## Footnote
The cruise was marketed as an _epicurean_ adventure through the cuisines of four Caribbean nations.
88
# Define:
hirsute
| (**hur**-soot)
adj. hairy, shaggy
## Footnote
A _hirsute_ sheepdog won the Dog Showing Contest.
89
# Define:
countenance
| (**koun**-tuh-nunce)
n. appearance of a person's face
v. to permit, to allow
## Footnote
Many people thought she was friendly because of her kindly _countenance_.
90
# Define:
scurvy
| (**skur**-vee)
adj. not admirable, despicable
## Footnote
The _scurvy_ pirate secured his escape by throwing gun powder into the eyes of his pursuers.
91
# Define:
covert
| (**koe**-vert)
adj. hidden; secret
## Footnote
The government's _covert_ operations were laid bare by the shocking article.
92
# Define:
craven
| (**kray**-vun)
adj. cowardly
## Footnote
The _craven_ man ran away at the first sign of danger.
93
# Define:
eugenics
| (yoo-**djen**-iks)
n. the study of heredity improvements by genetic control
## Footnote
Nazi Germany is known to have carried out many _eugenics_ experiments that provoked outrage once they came to light.
94
# Define:
credence
| (**creed**-enss)
n. belief that something is true
n. plausibility
## Footnote
She gave _credence_ to the rumors when she failed to deny them.
95
# Define:
execrate
| (**ek**-si-kreyt)
v. to declare to be hateful or abhorrent; denounce
v. to loathe
v. to curse
## Footnote
The rival teams appeared on the news to _execrate_ one another.
96
# Define:
sempiternal
| (sem-pih-**tur**-nl)
adj. eternal, infinite
## Footnote
Nothing in life is _sempiternal_, alas.
97
# Define:
credulous
| (**kredj**-uh-luss)
adj. easily convinced that something is true
## Footnote
His lies were so ridiculous that only the most _credulous_ child would have believed them.
98
# Define:
plumb
| (**pluhm**)
v. to measure the depth
v. to examine critically
## Footnote
I think she is the only architect working today who has the courage to truly _plumb_ the possibilities of recycled construction materials.
99
# Define:
culpable
| (**kull**-puh-bull)
adj. deserving of blame or punishment
## Footnote
He confessed that he was _culpable_ for the crime and faced the consequences.
100
# Define:
debase
| (dih-**base**)
v. to corrupt or lower the value of
## Footnote
Many argue that modern society has been _debased_ by materialism.
101
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. yearning, longing, or melancholy
wistful
| (**wist**-fuhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: forlorn, reflective, pensive, melancholic
She gave a _wistful_ glance at the old photographs, remembering better times.
102
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to confirm or validate
corroborate
| (kuh-**rob**-uh-rehyt)
## Footnote
synonyms: affirm, validate, give further supporting evidence, verify, support
The witness's testimony _corroborated_ the alibi of the defendant.
103
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to express in indirect terms; to frame in a certain way
couch
| (**couch**)
## Footnote
synonyms: formulate, phrase, surround, present, articulate
She _couched_ her criticism in more diplomatic language to avoid offense.
104
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to give nervous energy to; to supply with nerves
innervate
| (ih-**nur**-veyt)
## Footnote
synonyms: invigorate, evoke, energize, stimulate
The motivational speech _innervated_ the team before the big game.
105
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. poor; without any money
impecunious
| (im-puh-**kyoo**-nee-us)
## Footnote
synonyms: destitute, impoverished, broke, needy
He was _impecunious_ after years of struggling to find steady work.
106
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to behave in a servile manner
v. to indulge in unworthy pursuits
grovel
| (**gruhv**-uhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: beg, serve, fawn, abase
He had to _grovel_ for forgiveness after making a serious mistake.
They _groveled_ to win favor with the influential leader.
107
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. characterized by luxury (esp. in terms of food and drink) or by a propensity for indulging in luxury
epicurean
| (ep-ih-kyoo-**ree**-uhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: gluttonous, libertine, luxurious, indulgent
The _epicurean_ feast featured the finest wines and gourmet dishes.
108
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. hairy, shaggy
hirsute
| (**hur**-soot)
## Footnote
synonyms: furry, woolly, fuzzy, hairy
The _hirsute_ dog left fur all over the furniture.
109
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. appearance of a person's face
v. to permit, to allow
countenance
| (**koun**-tuh-nunce)
## Footnote
synonyms: aspect, demeanor, expression; face, approval
His serious _countenance_ made him look older than his years.
The manager _countenanced_ the team's request for a day off.
110
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. not admirable, despicable
scurvy
| (**skur**-vee)
## Footnote
synonyms: abominable, low-down, despicable, contemptible
His _scurvy_ behavior left him with few friends.
111
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. hidden; secret
n. a covered place for hiding
covert
| (**koe**-vert)
## Footnote
synonyms: cloaked, secret, sly, concealed, hidden
The agent's _covert_ operation was unknown to most of his colleagues.
The fox darted into the _covert_ to avoid the hunters.
112
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. cowardly
craven
| (**kray**-vun)
## Footnote
synonyms: weak, timid, fearful, spineless, cowardly
His craven refusal to stand up for his beliefs cost him his reputation.
113
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the study of heredity improvements by genetic control
eugenics
| (yoo-**djen**-iks)
## Footnote
synonyms: genetic enhancement, genetic manipulation, biogenetics
The controversial theory of _eugenics_ has raised ethical concerns over the years.
114
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. belief that something is true
n. plausibility
credence
| (**creed**-enss)
## Footnote
synonyms: credulity, confidence, possibility, faith, trust
The scientist's findings lent _credence_ to the new theory.
Her story had enough _credence_ to be considered seriously.
115
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to declare to be hateful or abhorrent; denounce
v. to loathe
v. to curse
execrate
| (**ek**-si-kreyt)
## Footnote
synonyms: accurse, condemn; hate, detest, revile
The dictator was _execrated_ by the people for his brutal regime.
She _execrated_ the idea of injustice.
116
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. eternal, infinite
sempiternal
| (sem-pih-**tur**-nl)
## Footnote
synonyms: ageless, constant, everlasting, timeless
The stars in the sky seem _sempiternal_, twinkling throughout the ages.
117
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. easily convinced that something is true
credulous
| (**kredj**-uh-luss)
## Footnote
synonyms: gullible, too trusting, naive, unsuspecting
The _credulous_ child believed every story his older brother told him.
118
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to measure the depth
v. to examine critically
plumb
| (**pluhm**)
## Footnote
synonyms: probe, gauge; assess, study, explore
They used a rope to _plumb_ the depths of the ocean.
The professor _plumbed_ the complexities of the argument during the lecture.
119
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. deserving of blame or punishment
culpable
| (**kull**-puh-bull)
## Footnote
synonyms: guilty, liable, responsible, accountable
He was found _culpable_ for the accident and faced legal consequences.
120
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. to corrupt or lower the value of
debase
| (dih-**base**)
## Footnote
synonyms: degrade, cheapen, diminish, tarnish
The scandal _debased_ the reputation of the company.
121
# Define:
decadent
| (**deck**-ih-dunt)
adj. in a state of decline
adj. self-indulgent
## Footnote
Louis XIV was known for his _decadent_ displays of wealth and power.
122
# Define:
decorous
| (**dek**-core-us)
adj. conforming to what is acceptable to society
adj. marked by propriety and etiquette
## Footnote
One must always behave in a _decorous_ manner at formal events.
123
# Define:
decry
| (dih-**cry**)
v. to strongly disapprove of
## Footnote
The preacher _decried_ society's indifference towards the poor.
124
# Define:
artless
| (**art**-liss)
adj. simple and natural
adj. unable to mask true feelings
adj. without artistic merit; crudely made
## Footnote
She had an _artless_ grace about her that endeared her to strangers.
125
# Define:
ascetic
| (uh-**set-**ik)
adj. relating to self-denial
n. a person who practices self-denial
## Footnote
The _ascetic_ monks rejected modern comforts such as electricity.
126
# Define:
ascendant
| (uh-**sen**-dent)
adj. rising
adj. most powerful
n. a position of being dominant or in control
## Footnote
In this game, newcomers are _ascendant_ because of their youth.
127
# Define:
ascribe
| (uh-**scribe**)
v. to attribute or assign to a cause
## Footnote
Her success was _ascribed_ to the hours she had spent studying.
128
# Define:
assiduous
| (uh-**sidj**-oo-us)
adj. making careful and persistent effort
## Footnote
John was an _assiduous_ student who always tried his best.
129
# Define:
assuage
| (uh-**swaydj**)
v. to relieve
## Footnote
Her anger was _assuaged_ by her friend's soothing words.
130
# Define:
astute
| (uh-**stewt**)
adj. having practical intelligence and good judgment
## Footnote
An _astute_ teacher always checks for plagiarism.
131
# Define:
suppliant
| (**suhp**-lee-uhnt)
adj. asking humbly, beseeching
n. a person who requests or begs
## Footnote
The boy was peering into the pet store window with the look of a _suppliant_ on his face.
132
# Define:
atrophy
| (**at**-ruh-fee)
n. deterioration (esp. due to inactivity)
v. to deteriorate, to waste away (esp. due to inactivity)
## Footnote
The paralyzed patient began to show signs of _atrophy_ in his leg muscles.
133
# Define:
anosmia
| (an-**oz**-mee-uh)
n. loss of the sense of smell
## Footnote
Melissa has been afflicted with _anosmia_ since birth; she likes to say that sometimes it is a curse, and sometimes a blessing.
134
# Define:
austere
| (aw-**steer**)
adj. severe, strict, or very plain
## Footnote
The _austere_ room was anything but inviting.
135
# Define:
autonomous
| (aw-**tawn**-ih-muss)
adj. independent
## Footnote
The revolutionaries are fighting to make their country _autonomous_.
136
# Define:
rapacious
| (ruh-**pey**-shuhs)
adj. voracious, greedy, plundering
## Footnote
The Vikings were _rapacious_ warriors.
137
# Define:
avarice
| (**av**-uh-riss)
n. insatiable greed
## Footnote
The rich man's _avarice_ led him to buy up most of the neighborhood.
138
# Define:
unflappable
| (uhn-**flap**-uh-buhl)
adj. not easily upset or excited (e.g., in a crisis)
## Footnote
The _unflappable_ hero maintained his level-headed mentality during the disaster.
139
# Define:
aver
| (uh-**vurr**)
v. to declare as true
## Footnote
When interviewed, Susan's friends all _averred_ that she was a trustworthy person.
140
# Define:
emasculate
| (uh-**mass**-kyuh-leyt)
v. to castrate or make effeminate
v. to weaken
## Footnote
Wearing the frilly pink shirt made him feel _emasculated_.
141
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. in a state of decline
adj. self-indulgent
decadent
| (**deck**-ih-dunt)
## Footnote
synonyms: decaying, hedonistic, luxurious, indulgent
The once-vibrant city now appeared _decadent_, with crumbling buildings and empty streets.
The _decadent_ lifestyle of the wealthy left them morally bankrupt.
142
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. conforming to what is acceptable to society
adj. marked by propriety and etiquette
decorous
| (**dek**-core-us)
## Footnote
synonyms: acceptable, befitting; civil, courtly, seemly, proper, respectable
Her _decorous_ behavior at the formal event impressed the guests.
The _decorous_ conversation at dinner was a refreshing change from their usual banter.
143
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. to strongly disapprove of
decry
| (dih-**cry**)
## Footnote
synonyms: denounce, deplore, condemn, criticize, vilify
The politician _decried_ the corruption in the system.
144
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. simple and natural
adj. unable to mask true feelings
adj. without artistic merit; crudely made
artless
| (**art**-liss)
## Footnote
synonyms: genuine, pure; naive, straightforward; awkward, amateurish, unpretentious, unrefined
Her _artless_ charm made her instantly likable.
His _artless_ honesty was refreshing, as he spoke from the heart.
145
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. relating to self-denial; and
n. a person who practices self-denial
ascetic
| (uh-**set-**ik)
## Footnote
synonyms: abstinent, restrained, austere, self-disciplined, rigorous
His _ascetic_ lifestyle was characterized by minimal possessions and strict routines.
The _ascetic_ devoted his life to meditation and reflection, seeking enlightenment through simplicity.
146
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. rising
adj. most powerful
n. a position of being dominant or in control
ascendant
| (uh-**sen**-dent)
## Footnote
synonyms: ruling, superior, dominant, rising, prevailing
The ascendant sun signaled the start of a new day.
The nation enjoyed a period of ascendant power on the global stage.
147
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to attribute or assign to a cause
ascribe
| (uh-**scribe**)
## Footnote
synonyms: assign, appoint, accredit, attribute, impute
He _ascribed_ his success to hard work and determination.
148
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. making careful and persistent effort
assiduous
| (uh-**sidj**-oo-us)
## Footnote
synonyms: hardworking, attentive, diligent, tireless, indefatigable, meticulous
Her _assiduous_ attention to detail ensured the project was flawless.
149
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to relieve
assuage
| (uh-**swaydj**)
## Footnote
synonyms: soothe, alleviate, ease, calm, pacify
He tried to _assuage_ her guilt with comforting words.
150
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. having practical intelligence and good judgment
astute
| (uh-**stewt**)
## Footnote
synonyms: adroit, perspicacious, sagacious, shrewd, insightful, perceptive, clever
Her _astute_ observations helped the team solve the problem quickly.
151
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. asking humbly, beseeching
n. a person who requests or begs
suppliant
| (**suhp**-lee-uhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: begging; beggar, seeker, humble, beseeching, pleading, imploring
The _suppliant_ tone of her voice revealed her deep desire for help.
As a _suppliant_, he approached the council for assistance in his plight.
152
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. deterioration (esp. due to inactivity)
v. to deteriorate, to waste away (esp. due to inactivity)
atrophy
| (**at**-ruh-fee)
## Footnote
synonyms: disintegration; to disintegrate, decline, degeneration, waste, diminish
Muscle _atrophy_ can occur when a person is bedridden for an extended period.
If not exercised regularly, the muscles will begin to _atrophy_.
153
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. loss of the sense of smell
anosmia
| (an-**oz**-mee-uh)
## Footnote
synonyms: without smell, smell loss, olfactory loss
She was diagnosed with _anosmia_ after a severe illness.
154
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. severe, strict, or very plain
austere
| (aw-**steer**)
## Footnote
synonyms: bare, stark, simple, stern, harsh, unadorned
The _austere_ decor of the room matched her minimalist lifestyle.
155
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. independent
autonomous
| (aw-**tawn**-ih-muss)
## Footnote
synonyms: self-determining, independent, self-governing, sovereign, free, self-sufficient
The island nation remained _autonomous_ despite political pressures.
156
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. voracious, greedy, plundering
rapacious
| (ruh-**pey**-shuhs)
## Footnote
synonyms: marauding, ravenous, avaricious, greedy, insatiable
The _rapacious_ invaders took everything of value from the village.
157
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. insatiable greed
avarice
| (**av**-uh-riss)
## Footnote
synonyms: selfishness, ambition, greed, covetousness, insatiability, materialism
His _avarice_ led him to exploit his employees without remorse.
158
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. not easily upset or excited (e.g., in a crisis)
unflappable
| (uhn-**flap**-uh-buhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: calm, collected, composed, steady, imperturbable
Even in the face of disaster, he remained _unflappable_ and calm.
159
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to declare as true
aver
| (uh-**vurr**)
## Footnote
synonyms: affirm, assert, declare, state
She _averred_ her innocence during the trial.
160
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to castrate or make effeminate
v. to weaken
emasculate
| (uh-**mass**-kyuh-leyt)
## Footnote
synonyms: desexualize, neuter; devitalize, weaken, undermine, debilitate, enfeeble
The harsh criticism seemed to _emasculate_ his confidence in the project.
Excessive regulations can _emasculate_ the effectiveness of a program.
161
# Define:
dormant
| (**door-**munt)
adj. inactive for a period of time
## Footnote
The _dormant_ volcano erupted unexpectedly, injuring many.
162
# Define:
recumbent
| (rih-**kuhm**-buhnt)
adj. leaning, lying down
## Footnote
He sat _recumbent_ on the picnic blanket.
163
# Define:
dote
| (**dote**)
v. to show excessive affection
## Footnote
Her parents were strict but her grandparents always _doted_ on her and showered her with gifts.
164
# Define:
frangible
| (**fran**-djuh-buhl)
adj. fragile; easily broken
## Footnote
The _frangible_ statue was accidently pushed over and shattered.
165
# Define:
dupe
| (**dewp**)
n. a person who is easily tricked
v. to deceive
## Footnote
The lying politician made those who had voted for him seem like _dupes_.
166
# Define:
magnanimous
| (mag-**nan**-uh-muhss)
adj. noble in spirit, generous in forgiving others
## Footnote
Susan's _magnanimous_ personality made her many life-long friends.
167
# Define:
ebb
| (**eb**)
v. to decrease or recede
n. a decline
n. the outward flow of the tide
## Footnote
Her affection for him began to _ebb_ a few days after the hasty wedding.
168
# Define:
wizen
| (**wiz**-uhn)
adj. shriveled, wrinkled, or withered, as of with old age
## Footnote
A _wizened_ old man was walking through the park.
169
# Define:
countermand
| (koun-ter-**mand**)
v. to annul, cancel, make a contrary order
## Footnote
The general _countermanded_ his previous order to retreat, telling the men to march straight into battle.
170
# Define:
ebullient
| (ih-**buhl**-yunt)
adj. very excited; joyously enthusiastic
## Footnote
Linda was _ebullient_ when she made it into the semifinals.
171
# Define::
apogee
| (**ap**-uh-djee)
n. the highest point, zenith
## Footnote
The _apogee_ of the roller coaster terrified even the most seasoned riders.
172
# Define:
ecclesiastical
| (ih-klee-zee-**ass**-tih-kuhl)
adj. relating to the church
## Footnote
Mary decided to take up her _ecclesiastical_ concerns with the local priest.
173
# Define:
eclectic
| (ih-**klek**-tik)
adj. composed of parts from many different sources
## Footnote
The girl's fashion sense was an _eclectic_ mix of conservative Victorian and colorful modern styles.
174
# Define:
edify
| (**ed**-ih-fahy)
v. to educate, instruct, or benefit, especially morally or spiritually; uplift
## Footnote
John attempted to _edify_ the impolite young man.
175
# Define:
efficacious
| (eff-ih-**kay**-shuss)
adj. producing or able to produce a desired result
## Footnote
The woman insisted that her herbal medicines would be the most _efficacious_ remedy for the young patient.
176
# Define:
puerile
| (**pyoo**-er-ill)
adj. childish, immature
## Footnote
The comedian had a _puerile_ sense of humor, invoking the bathroom in practically every joke.
177
# Define:
effrontery
| (ih-**frun**-tuh-ree)
n. unjustified arrogance or boldness
## Footnote
Although my sister had not invited me to her party, she had the _effrontery_ to ask me for help setting up.
178
# Define:
effusive
| (ih-**few**-siv)
adj. related to excessive or unchecked emotion; expressing feelings of gratitude
## Footnote
Susan's _effusive_ praise of Ramon's new car made him think that perhaps she didn't really like it.
179
# Define:
tortuous
| (**tawr**-choo-uhs)
adj. winding, excessively complicated
## Footnote
The philosopher made a _tortuous_ argument that not many of his students followed.
180
# Define:
debauchery
| (dih-**baw**-chuh-ree)
n. extreme sensual indulgence
## Footnote
The _debauchery_ in the movie was enough to make me blush.
181
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. inactive for a period of time
dormant
| (**door-**munt)
## Footnote
synonyms: inactive, sleeping, inoperative, latent, idle, resting
The volcano has been _dormant_ for centuries.
182
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. leaning, lying down
recumbent
| (rih-**kuhm**-buhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: sprawling, reclining, horizontal, prone
He remained _recumbent_ on the couch, watching TV.
183
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to show excessive affection
dote
| (**dote**)
## Footnote
synonyms: favor, cherish, adore, pamper
She couldn't help but _dote_ on her new puppy.
184
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. fragile; easily broken
frangible
| (**fran**-djuh-buhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: brittle, flimsy, delicate, breakable
The _frangible_ glass shattered upon impact.
185
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a person who is easily tricked
v. to deceive
dupe
| (**dewp**)
## Footnote
synonyms: chump, sucker, victim, fool, gull
He was such a _dupe_, falling for every scam.
The con artist _duped_ him into giving away his money.
186
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. noble in spirit, generous in forgiving others
magnanimous
| (mag-**nan**-uh-muhss)
## Footnote
synonyms: big-hearted, forgiving, generous, altruistic
Her _magnanimous_ gesture of forgiveness surprised everyone.
187
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to decrease or recede
n. a decline
n. the outward flow of the tide
ebb
| (**eb**)
## Footnote
synonyms: subside; regression, decline, diminution, retreat
As the excitement began to _ebb_, the crowd slowly dispersed.
The _ebb_ of support left the candidate discouraged.
188
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to shrivel, wrinkle, or wither, as of old age
wizen
| (**wiz**-uhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: sag, crinkle, dry up, fade, shrivel
The once vibrant flowers began to _wizen_ in the heat.
189
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to annul or cancel; to give a contrary order
countermand
| (koun-ter-**mand**)
## Footnote
synonyms: override, recall, revoke, rescind, retract
The general _countermanded_ the earlier attack order.
190
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. very excited; joyously enthusiastic
ebullient
| (ih-**buhl**-yunt)
## Footnote
synonyms: bouncy, chipper, effervescent, exuberant, lively
The _ebullient_ crowd cheered loudly for their team.
191
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the highest point, zenith
apogee
| (**ap**-uh-djee)
## Footnote
synonyms: pinnacle, apex, summit, peak
The astronaut reached the _apogee_ of his career with the moon landing.
192
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. relating to the church
ecclesiastical
| (ih-klee-zee-**ass**-tih-kuhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: clerical, parochial, religious, spiritual
The _ecclesiastical_ leaders gathered for the annual conference.
193
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. composed of parts from many different sources
eclectic
| (ih-**klek**-tik)
## Footnote
synonyms: heterogeneous, multifarious, varied, diverse
Her music taste is quite _eclectic_, ranging from classical to punk rock.
194
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to educate, instruct, or benefit, especially morally or spiritually; uplift
edify
| (**ed**-ih-fahy)
## Footnote
synonyms: enlighten, teach, uplift, inspire
The speaker's words were meant to _edify_ the audience.
195
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. producing or able to produce a desired result
efficacious
| (eff-ih-**kay**-shuss)
## Footnote
synonyms: efficient, capable, effective, potent
The treatment was _efficacious_ in curing the disease.
196
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. childish, immature
puerile
| (**pyoo**-er-ill)
## Footnote
synonyms: babyish, callow, infantile, naive, juvenile
His _puerile_ jokes irritated everyone at the meeting.
197
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. unjustified arrogance or boldness
effrontery
| (ih-**frun**-tuh-ree)
## Footnote
synonyms: audacity, impudence, brashness, insolence
He had the _effrontery_ to insult the host at the dinner party.
198
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. related to excessive or unchecked emotion; expressing feelings of gratitude
effusive
| (ih-**few**-siv)
## Footnote
synonyms: overdone, extravagant, gushing, unrestrained
Her _effusive_ praise made everyone in the room uncomfortable.
199
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. winding, excessively complicated
tortuous
| (**tawr**-choo-uhs)
## Footnote
synonyms: ambiguous, convoluted, indirect, circuitous, twisted
The legal contract was so _tortuous_ that no one could understand it.
200
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. extreme sensual indulgence
debauchery
| (dih-**baw**-chuh-ree)
## Footnote
synonyms: depravity, lechery, lewdness, dissipation, excess
The party was known for its _debauchery_ and excess.
