Advanced Vocab Words - Set 5 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:
obfuscate
(ob-fuh-skeyt)
A
v. to deliberately obscure, to make confusing, to bewilder
The governor obfuscated the issue with big words and numbers.
Prefix: ob- (from Latin, meaning “toward” or “against”); Root: fusc (from Latin fuscus, meaning “dark”)
2
Q
Define:
encomium
(en-koh-mee-uhm)
A
n. enthusiastic praise
That country’s national anthem is an encomium to the heroes of a war long past.
Prefix: en- (from Greek enkomion, meaning “in” or “within”); Root: komos (from Greek, meaning “celebration”)
3
Q
Define:
din
(din)
A
n. loud sustained noise, confusing or tumultuous sound
During the concert, Jill couldn’t hear Rick over the din of the loudspeakers.
Root: din (from Old English dyne, meaning “noise”)
4
Q
Define:
alloy
(n. al-oi; v. al-oi)
A
n. a mixture of superior and inferior ingredients
v. to debase by mixing with something inferior
The heroism one sees nowadays is often alloyed with some degree of self-interest.
Prefix: al- (from Latin ad-, meaning “to” or “toward”); Root: lig (from Latin ligare, meaning “to bind”)
5
Q
Define:
pugilism
(pyoo-djuh-liz-uhm)
A
n. the skill or practice of fighting with fists; boxing
Mike Tyson is known throughout the world for his pugilism.
Root: pugil (from Latin pugil, meaning “boxer”)
6
Q
Define:
sanctimony
(sangk-tuh-moh-nee)
A
n. self-righteousness, pretended piety, insincere holiness
His sanctimony was laughable, since we all knew he was one of the worst offenders.
Root: sanct (from Latin sanctus, meaning “holy”); Suffix: -mony (from Latin -monia, indicating a state or condition)
7
Q
Define:
baleful
(beyl-fuhl)
A
adj. full of sinister influence, pernicious, ominous
The basilisk’s baleful glare is lethal.
Root: bale (from Old English bealu, meaning “evil” or “harm”); Suffix: -ful (indicating “full of”)
8
Q
Define:
hallow
(hal-oh)
A
v. to set apart as holy, to sanctify
The site for the church was hallowed in a special ceremony.
Root: hallow (from Old English halgian, meaning “to make holy”)
9
Q
Define:
ostensible
(uh-sten-suh-buhl)
A
adj. apparent
adj. pretended
The oil spill was the ostensible result of lax safety regulations.
Root: ostens (from Latin ostendere, meaning “to show”); Suffix: -ible (indicating “capable of”)
10
Q
Define:
sinecure
(sahy-nih-kyoor)
A
n. a comfortable job requiring little work
Carolyn’s position in the office is a sinecure; she does nothing all day yet she draws the same salary as everyone else.
Prefix: sine- (from Latin, meaning “without”); Root: cura (from Latin, meaning “care”)
11
Q
Define:
lackey
(lak-ee)
A
n. a male servant, servile follower, toady
Lori’s boyfriend becomes a lackey during her shopping trips.
Root: lackey (from Middle French laquais, meaning “footman” or “servant”)
12
Q
Define:
redress
(ree-dress)
A
v. to set right, to remedy
n. compensation or restitution for a wrong
The peaceful petitioning for redress of wrongs is a right enshrined in our country’s founding document.
Prefix: re- (from Latin, meaning “again” or “back”); Root: dress (from Old French dresser, meaning “to arrange”)
13
Q
Define:
unctuous
(uhngk-choo-uhs)
A
adj. oily, greasy
adj. characterized by insincere earnestness
The king had the unctuous toady removed from his palace.
Root: unct (from Latin unctus, meaning “anointed”); Suffix: -uous (indicating “full of”)
14
Q
Define:
arrant
(ar-uhnt)
A
adj. impudent
adj. thorough, utter, complete
Though the professor is considered one of the greats of his discipline, lately his lectures have verged on arrant nonsense.
Root: arrant (from Old French errant, meaning “wandering”)
15
Q
Define:
vaunt
(vawnt)
A
v. to boast or brag about
Chris, though usually very modest, will readily vaunt his achievements in a job interview.
Root: vaunt (from Latin vanitare, meaning “to boast”)
16
Q
Define:
affectation
(af-ek-tey-shuhn)
A
n. a show or pretense
n. artificial behavior to impress others
That American doctor’s affectation of a British accent has drawn much criticism.
Prefix: af- (variant of ad-, from Latin, meaning “to”); Root: fect (from Latin facere, meaning “to do”); Suffix: -ation (indicating “action or process”)
17
Q
Define:
philately
(fih-lat-uhl-ee)
A
n. the study of postage stamps
His grandfather is obsessed with philately and has even made several overseas pen pals in order to study their countries’ postage.
Prefix: phil- (from Greek philos, meaning “loving”); Root: atel (from Greek ateleia, meaning “exemption from tax”)
18
Q
Define:
canonical
(kuh-non-ih-kuhl)
A
adj. in agreement with accepted principles
adj. authorized, accepted
The canonical Mozart sonatas were consulted in order to compare them to the newly-discovered manuscript attributed to him.
Root: canon (from Greek kanon, meaning “rule” or “standard”); Suffix: -ical (indicating “pertaining to”)
19
Q
Define:
whit
(wit)
A
n. the smallest possible part or fraction
The bank robber did not have a whit of self-respect.
Root: whit (from Old English hwit, meaning “a small amount”)
20
Q
Define:
epaulet
(ep-uh-let)
A
n. a shoulder ornament, esp. a strap on military uniforms
The veteran’s uniform was adorned by a pair of impressive epaulets.
Root: epaule (from French épaule, meaning “shoulder”); Suffix: -et (diminutive suffix indicating “small”)
21
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to deliberately obscure, to make confusing, to bewilder
A
obfuscate
(ob-fuh-skeyt)
synonyms: baffle, muddle, confound, cloud, confuse, bewilder
The lawyer tried to obfuscate the facts to confuse the jury.
22
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. enthusiastic praise
A
encomium
(en-koh-mee-uhm)
synonyms: tribute, laudation, praise, commendation, accolade, honor
The author received an encomium from critics praising her latest novel.
23
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. loud, sustained noise, confusing or tumultuous sound
A
din
(din)
synonyms: buzz, clamor, commotion, racket, uproar, cacophony
The din of the crowd made it difficult to hear the speaker.
24
Q
Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a mixture of superior and inferior ingredients
v. to debase by mixing with something inferior
A
alloy
(n. al-oi; v. al-oi)
synonyms: blend, combination; debase, devalue, mixture, compound
Bronze is an alloy made from copper and tin.
The decision to alloy the pure metal with cheaper materials diminished its quality.
25
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the skill or practice of fighting with fists; boxing
pugilism
| (**pyoo**-djuh-liz-uhm)
## Footnote
synonyms: battle, sparring, duel, boxing, fisticuffs
His passion for _pugilism_ led him to become a champion boxer.
26
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. self-righteousness, pretended piety, insincere holiness
sanctimony
| (**sangk**-tuh-moh-nee)
## Footnote
synonyms: smug, hypocritical, preachy, pharisaical, moralizing
Her _sanctimony_ was evident as she criticized others while ignoring her own faults.
27
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. full of sinister influence, pernicious, ominous
baleful
| (**beyl**-fuhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: menacing, evil, malicious, threatening
The _baleful_ glare from the villain sent shivers down the hero's spine.
28
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to set apart as holy, to sanctify
hallow
| (**hal**-oh)
## Footnote
synonyms: bless, consecrate, sanctify, venerate
The community came together to _hallow_ the new memorial.
29
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. apparent
ostensible
| (uh-**sten**-suh-buhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: exhibited, likely, manifest, seeming, purported
The _ostensible_ reason for his visit was to check on her, but he had another agenda.
30
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a comfortable job requiring little work
sinecure
| (**sahy**-nih-kyoor)
## Footnote
synonyms: easy work, position of ease, cushy job
After years of hard work, he finally landed a _sinecure_ that allowed him to relax.
31
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a male servant, servile follower, toady
lackey
| (**lak**-ee)
## Footnote
synonyms: servant, butler, subordinate, sycophant, minion
He was treated like a _lackey_, always expected to run errands for his boss.
32
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to set right, to remedy
n. compensation or restitution for a wrong
redress
| (**ree**-dress)
## Footnote
synonyms: help, compensate; justice, rectify, remedy
She sought to _redress_ the imbalance by addressing the unfair policies.
The company offered a _redress_ to customers affected by the faulty product.
33
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. oily, greasy
adj. characterized by insincere earnestness
unctuous
| (**uhngk**-choo-uhs)
## Footnote
synonyms: fatty, slick; lying, untruthful, smooth, ingratiating
The chef used _unctuous_ olive oil to enhance the flavor of the dish.
His _unctuous_ compliments made her suspicious of his true intentions.
34
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. impudent
adj. thorough, utter, complete
arrant
| (**ar**-uhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: shameless; brazen, blatant, notorious
His _arrant_ disregard for the rules resulted in severe consequences.
The _arrant_ nonsense in his speech frustrated the audience.
35
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to boast, to brag
vaunt
| (**vawnt**)
## Footnote
synonyms: flaunt, gloat, show off, proclaim
She loved to _vaunt_ her accomplishments at every opportunity.
36
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a show or pretense
n. artificial behavior to impress others
affectation
| (af-ek-**tey**-shuhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: pretend, artificiality, pretense, facade
Her British accent was an _affectation_ she adopted to appear more sophisticated.
The writer's _affectation_ for using complicated words made his work less accessible.
37
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the study of postage stamps
philately
| (fih-**lat**-uhl-ee)
## Footnote
synonyms: study of stamps, stamp collecting, philatelic study
Her passion for _philately_ led her to collect rare stamps from around the world.
38
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. in agreement with accepted principles
adj. authorized, accepted
canonical
| (kuh-**non**-ih-kuhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: orthodox, standard, approved, recognized
The _canonical_ texts of the religion are studied by scholars worldwide.
Her research follows _canonical_ methods recognized by the scientific community.
39
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the smallest possible part or fraction
whit
| (**wit**)
## Footnote
synonyms: atom, crumb, grain, iota, bit, fragment
There wasn’t a _whit_ of evidence to support his claims.
40
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a shoulder ornament, esp. a strap on military uniforms
epaulet
| (**ep**-uh-let)
## Footnote
synonyms: military decoration, service stripe, shoulder piece, insignia
The soldier's uniform was adorned with gold _epaulets_ indicating his rank.
41
# Define:
panoply
| (**pan**-uh-plee)
n. a splendid, striking array
n. the complete armory of a warrior
n. a shining protective array
## Footnote
A porcupine's _panoply_ of quills is quite a protective arsenal.
42
# Define:
pantheon
| (**pan**-thee-on)
n. a temple dedicated to the gods
n. all the gods of a people
n. a group of famous persons
## Footnote
The Greek _pantheon_ includes Zeus and his consort, Hera.
43
# Define:
blandish
| (**blan**-dish)
v. to coax or influence with flattery
## Footnote
Steve _blandished_ her into going out with him.
44
# Define:
peremptory
| (puh-**remp**-tuh-ree)
adj. admitting of no contradiction; putting an end to further debate; haughty; imperious
## Footnote
He ended the discussion with a _peremptory_ wave of his hand.
45
# Define:
tyro
| (**tahy**-roh)
n. a beginner or novice in any kind of skill
## Footnote
The hapless _tyro_ tripped over the ropes on his way into the boxing ring.
46
# Define:
fetid
| (**fet**-id)
adj. malodorous, stinky
## Footnote
The _fetid_ green substance had taken over the entire fridge.
47
# Define:
fecundity
| (fih-**kuhn**-dih-tee)
n. fertility, fruitfulness
## Footnote
An artist's period of _fecundity_ can come at any time of her life.
48
# Define:
rarefied
| (**rair**-uh-fahyd)
adj. thin, pure, refined
## Footnote
The _rarefied_ air of higher altitudes makes it very difficult to climb Mt. Everest.
49
# Define:
delectation
| (dee-lek-**tey**-shuhn)
n. enjoyment
## Footnote
They played wiffleball for the _delectation_ of it, not for the competition.
50
# Define:
fickle
| (**fick**-ul)
adj. prone to changing often
## Footnote
Suzanne was a _fickle_ friend who could not be relied upon.
51
# Define:
fidelity
| (fih-**dell**-ih-tee)
n. devotion to obligations or loyalties
n. the accuracy of a reproduced sound or image
## Footnote
Kevin's parents were proud of him for his _fidelity_ to the family business.
52
# Define:
fission
| (**fish**-un)
n. the act of separating into parts
## Footnote
The controversial legislation led to the _fission_ of the administration.
53
# Define:
flag
| (**flag**)
v. to become tired or weak
v. to droop or limp
## Footnote
The runner's enthusiasm _flagged_ when she realized she still had many miles ahead of her.
54
# Define:
florid
| (**floor**-id)
adj. healthy-looking
adj. ornate or flowery
## Footnote
The author's _florid_ prose did not impress the critics, who found her work pretentious.
55
# Define:
forbear
| (for-**bear**)
v. to refrain from doing something
## Footnote
Although I know Adam likes to crack jokes, I would have liked him to _forbear_ silliness in such a serious situation.
56
# Define:
forestall
| (for-**stall**)
v. to deal with ahead of time; to prevent
## Footnote
The mayor called the police before the protest even began in order to _forestall_ rioting.
57
# Define:
quail
| (**kweyl**)
v. to shrink with fear
## Footnote
The puppy _quailed_ at my angry tone.
58
# Define:
forthright
| (**forth**-rahyt)
adj. straightforward
## Footnote
One should be _forthright_ and honest with the authorities so as not to seem suspicious.
59
# Define:
fortuity
| (for-**too**-ih-tee)
n. an event that happens by chance without a known cause
n. luck
## Footnote
By sheer _fortuity_, Linda was assigned to the same homeroom as her twin brother.
60
# Define:
mince
| (**minss**)
v. to speak carefully; to euphemize
## Footnote
Don't _mince_ words with me; just say what you need to say!
61
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a splendid, striking array
n. the complete armory of a warrior
n. a shining protective array
panoply
| (**pan**-uh-plee)
## Footnote
synonyms: display, arrangement; armaments, array, equipment, ensemble
The museum featured a _panoply_ of historical artifacts from various cultures.
The knight's _panoply_ included an impressive array of armor and weapons.
62
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a temple dedicated to the gods
n. all the gods of a people
n. a group of famous persons
pantheon
| (**pan**-thee-on)
## Footnote
synonyms: house of worship, sanctuary, deities, divine assembly
The ancient Greeks built a _pantheon_ to honor their gods.
The artist's work has earned her a place in the _pantheon_ of contemporary greats.
63
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to coax or influence with flattery
blandish
| (**blan**-dish)
## Footnote
synonyms: charm, flatter, cajole, sweet-talk
He tried to _blandish_ his way into a better deal with flattery.
64
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. admitting of no contradiction; putting an end to further debate; haughty; imperious
peremptory
| (puh-**remp**-tuh-ree)
## Footnote
synonyms: opinionated, absolute, assertive, dictatorial, commanding
Her _peremptory_ tone left no room for discussion.
65
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a beginner or novice in any kind of skill
tyro
| (**tahy**-roh)
## Footnote
synonyms: beginner, rookie, neophyte, fledgling
As a _tyro_ in the field, he was eager to learn from his peers.
66
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. malodorous, stinky
fetid
| (**fet**-id)
## Footnote
synonyms: corrupt, gross, rancid, foul-smelling
The _fetid_ odor from the garbage made the area unbearable.
67
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. fertility, fruitfulness
fecundity
| (fih-**kuhn**-dih-tee)
## Footnote
synonyms: abundance, productivity, richness, yield
The _fecundity_ of the land resulted in a bountiful harvest.
68
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. thin, pure, refined
rarefied
| (**rair**-uh-fahyd)
## Footnote
synonyms: thin, refined, elevated, esoteric
The _rarefied_ air at high altitudes can be challenging for climbers.
69
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. enjoyment
delectation
| (dee-lek-**tey**-shuhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: delight, elation, pleasure, satisfaction
She read the novel with great _delectation_, savoring each chapter.
70
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. prone to changing often
fickle
| (**fick**-ul)
## Footnote
synonyms: inconstant, unpredictable, capricious, changeable
His _fickle_ nature made it hard to rely on his commitments.
71
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. devotion to obligations or loyalties
n. the accuracy of a reproduced sound or image
fidelity
| (fih-**dell**-ih-tee)
## Footnote
synonyms: allegiance, faith, loyalty, constancy
Her _fidelity_ to her friends was unwavering, always standing by them in tough times.
The _fidelity_ of the sound system ensured that every note was reproduced accurately.
72
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the act of separating into parts
fission
| (**fish**-un)
## Footnote
synonyms: division, severance, parting, splitting, fragmentation
The _fission_ of the atom released a significant amount of energy.
73
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to become tired or weak
v. to droop or limp
flag
| (**flag**)
## Footnote
synonyms: droop, fade, wane, weaken, sink, decline
After hours of studying, he began to _flag_, struggling to keep his eyes open.
The flowers started to _flag_ in the heat without enough water.
74
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. healthy-looking
adj. ornate or flowery
florid
| (**floor**-id)
## Footnote
synonyms: pretty, fancy; extravagant, ornamental, flamboyant, showy
The patient had a _florid_ complexion, indicating good health.
The artist's _florid_ style was characterized by intricate designs and vibrant colors.
75
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to refrain from doing something
forbear
| (for-**bear**)
## Footnote
synonyms: avoid, constrain, forgo, withhold, abstain
He decided to _forbear_ from commenting on the sensitive issue.
76
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to deal with ahead of time; to prevent
forestall
| (for-**stall**)
## Footnote
synonyms: intercept, anticipate, prevent, avert, preempt
They tried to _forestall_ problems by addressing them early.
77
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to shrink with fear
quail
| (**kweyl**)
## Footnote
synonyms: recoil, cower, tremble, flinch
She began to _quail_ at the thought of public speaking.
78
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. straightforward
forthright
| (**forth**-rahyt)
## Footnote
synonyms: honest, frank, direct, candid
His _forthright_ manner made him a trusted advisor.
79
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. an event that happens by chance without a known cause
n. luck
fortuity
| (for-**too**-ih-tee)
## Footnote
synonyms: accident; good fortune, coincidence, serendipity
The discovery of the rare artifact was a remarkable _fortuity_ during the excavation.
Winning the lottery was a stroke of _fortuity_ that changed his life.
80
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to speak carefully; to euphemize
mince
| (**minss**)
## Footnote
synonyms: soften, tone down, diminish, moderate
He chose to _mince_ his words when discussing the sensitive topic.
81
# Define:
visceral
| (**viss**-er-uhl)
adj. felt in one's stomach
adj. emotional, rather than intellectual
## Footnote
Jeb's _visceral_ response to his mother's racist ramblings was visible to all of us.
82
# Define:
refectory
| (rih-**fek**-tuh-ree)
n. a room or dining area where meals are served
## Footnote
The students milled about the entrance to the _refectory_, counting down the seconds until supper would be served.
83
# Define:
frenetic
| (fruh-**net**-ik)
adj. frenzied or frantic
## Footnote
_Frenetic_ screams filled the room as people tried to get out before the fire spread.
84
# Define:
infinitesimal
| (in-fin-ih-**tess**-uh-muhl)
adj. immeasurably small
## Footnote
The proportion of truly selfless people in this world is surely _infinitesimal_ .
85
# Define:
sanguine
| (**sang**-gwin)
adj. cheerfully optimistic; a blood-red color
## Footnote
Samantha had a _sanguine_ attitude towards life that enriched those around her.
86
# Define:
furtive
| (**fur**-tiv)
adj. secretive, sly
## Footnote
At the party, Julia cast _furtive_ glances around the room to make sure her elder sister was not around to send her back home.
87
# Define:
calumny
| (**kal**-uhm-nee)
n. a false statement; slander, aspersion
## Footnote
The desperate candidate abandoned reasoned arguments and resorted to _calumnies_ against the front-runner.
88
# Define:
quotidian
| (kwoh-**tid**-ee-uhn)
adj. everyday, commonplace, habitual
## Footnote
Joe's small, _quotidian_ pleasures seemed more substantial than Mattias's high-profile jet-setting.
89
# Define::
salacious
| (suh-**ley**-shuhs)
adj. causing sexual desire, bawdy
## Footnote
Many parents were unhappy with the magazine's _salacious_ material.
90
# Define:
importune
| (im-**pour**-chewn)
v. to beg persistently
## Footnote
Kate _importuned_ her father every day to teach her how to sail.
91
# Define:
impregnable
| (im-**preg**-nuh-bul)
adj. able to withstand attack
## Footnote
The fortress was surrounded by a moat so as to make it _impregnable_.
92
# Define:
daft
| (**daft**)
adj. mad, crazy
adj. foolish
## Footnote
The _daft_ man was walking about the room conversing with himself.
93
# Define:
solemn
| (**sol**-uhm)
adj. deeply earnest, grave
adj. of a very serious nature; gloomy
## Footnote
Carter's _solemn_ voice made his family suspect that a tragedy had occurred.
94
# Define:
impromptu
| (im-**promp**-too)
adj. spontaneously done without preparation
## Footnote
During a lull in the live broadcast, the host began an _impromptu_ dance number with some of the contestants.
95
# Define:
impudent
| (**im**-pyuh-dent)
adj. improperly disrespectful
## Footnote
The girl was forced to apologize in front of the class for her _impudent_ attitude towards her teachers.
96
# Define:
bedizen
| (bih-**dahy**-zuhn)
v. to adorn, usually in a poorly conceived or tasteless manner
## Footnote
Paula was _bedizened_ with gaudy decorations.
97
# Define:
incense
| (in-**sense**)
v. to make angry
## Footnote
The class's behavior _incensed_ the teacher to the point that she gave them all extra homework.
98
# Define:
volition
| (voh-**lish**-uhn)
n. a conscious decision or the capability of choosing
n. willingness
## Footnote
Though his friends had egged him on, it was determined that Pat stole the sunglasses of his own _volition_.
99
# Define:
tamp
| (**tamp**)
v. to plug
v. to drive in or down by a series of blows
## Footnote
They _tamped_ down the soil around the base of the new sapling.
100
# Define:
steel
| (**steel**)
v. to make hard, strong or obdurate
v. to fill with determination
## Footnote
John realized that he would lose the chess match and _steeled_ himself for disappointment.
101
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. felt in one's stomach
adj. emotional, rather than intellectual
visceral
| (**viss**-er-uhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: habitual, instinctive, inherent; affective, gut-level, intuitive
His _visceral_ reaction to the news was evident as he clutched his stomach in shock.
She had a _visceral_ response to the film that left her in tears.
102
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a room or dining area where meals are served
refectory
| (rih-**fek**-tuh-ree)
## Footnote
synonyms: chamber, dining hall, cafeteria, mess hall
The students gathered in the _refectory_ for their lunchtime meal.
103
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. frenzied or frantic
frenetic
| (fruh-**net**-ik)
## Footnote
synonyms: anxious, hysterical, rattled, chaotic, wild
The _frenetic_ pace of the city made it hard to relax.
104
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. immeasurably small
infinitesimal
| (in-fin-ih-**tess**-uh-muhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: little, synonyms: little, microscopic, minuscule, tiny
The scientist measured the _infinitesimal_ particles with great precision.
105
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. cheerfully optimistic
sanguine
| (**sang**-gwin)
## Footnote
synonyms: happy, cheerful, hopeful, buoyant
Despite the challenges ahead, she remained _sanguine_ about the future.
106
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. secretive, sly
furtive
| (**fur**-tiv)
## Footnote
synonyms: sneaky, stealthy, covert, surreptitious
She cast a _furtive_ glance at the hidden documents on the table.
107
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a false statement; slander, aspersion
calumny
| (**kal**-uhm-nee)
## Footnote
synonyms: misrepresentations, slanderous, defamation, libel
The politician's career was ruined by a _calumny_ that spread quickly through the media.
108
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. everyday, commonplace, habitual
quotidian
| (kwoh-**tid**-ee-uhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: ordinary, trivial, mundane, routine
Her _quotidian_ routine included a morning jog and a cup of coffee.
109
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. causing sexual desire, bawdy
salacious
| (suh-**ley**-shuhs)
## Footnote
synonyms: erotic, lecherous, raunchy, lascivious, risqué
The novel was criticized for its _salacious_ content that appealed to base desires.
110
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to beg persistently
importune
| (im-**pour**-chewn)
## Footnote
synonyms: demand, appeal, plead, beseech
He would _importune_ his friends for favors whenever he needed help.
111
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. able to withstand attack
impregnable
| (im-**preg**-nuh-bul)
## Footnote
synonyms: impenetrable, unassailable, invulnerable, secure
The fortress was built to be _impregnable_, with walls that could withstand any assault.
112
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. mad, crazy
adj. foolish
daft
| (**daft**)
## Footnote
synonyms: absurd, insane, silly, nonsensical
His _daft_ idea to swim in the icy lake in winter raised eyebrows.
Deciding to invest all his savings in a single stock was a _daft_ move.
113
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. deeply earnest, grave
adj. of a very serious nature; gloomy
solemn
| (**sol**-uhm)
## Footnote
synonyms: quiet, serious, grave, somber, earnest, thoughtful
The _solemn_ ceremony honored those who had sacrificed their lives.
His _solemn_ expression indicated he understood the seriousness of the situation.
114
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. spontaneously done without preparation
impromptu
| (im-**promp**-too)
## Footnote
synonyms: improvised, unrehearsed, spontaneous, extemporaneous, off-the-cuff
The _impromptu_ speech he gave was surprisingly well-received.
115
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. improperly disrespectful
impudent
| (**im**-pyuh-dent)
## Footnote
synonyms: cocky, insolent, overbearing, brazen, audacious
His _impudent_ remarks during the meeting shocked everyone.
116
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to adorn, usually in a poorly conceived or tasteless manner
bedizen
| (bih-**dahy**-zuhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: clothe, embellish, garnish, dress up, decorate
She chose to _bedizen_ herself in bright colors and flashy accessories.
117
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to make angry
incense
| (in-**sense**)
## Footnote
synonyms: fire up, enrage, infuriate, provoke
The rude comment served to _incense_ her, making her visibly upset.
118
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a conscious decision or the capability of choosing
n. willingness
volition
| (voh-**lish**-uhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: choice, option, preference, determination, resolve
He made the decision of his own _volition_, choosing to pursue a different career path.
Her _volition_ to help others was evident in her volunteer work.
119
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to plug
v. to drive in or down by a series of blows
tamp
| (**tamp**)
## Footnote
synonyms: fill, jam; ram, butt, drive, pack, compress
She used a tool to _tamp_ the soil around the newly planted flowers.
He had to _tamp_ the stakes firmly into the ground to secure the tent.
120
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to make hard, strong or obdurate
v. to fill with determination
steel
| (steel)
## Footnote
synonyms: harden, toughen; brace, embolden, fortify, prepare
He had to _steel_ himself for the difficult conversation ahead.
She _steeled_ herself against doubt and pushed forward with her goals.
121
# Define:
gossamer
| (**goss**-uh-murr)
adj. delicate, insubstantial, flimsy
## Footnote
The _gossamer_ kite broke in two at the first gust of wind.
122
# Define:
inimical
| (ih-**nim**-ih-kuhl)
adj. hostile, unfriendly
## Footnote
The Antarctic is _inimical_ to life.
123
# Define:
vainglorious
| (veyn-**glawr**-ee-us)
adj. boastful of one's accomplishments or accolades; vain
## Footnote
Dave's _vainglorious_ attitude unfortunately overshadowed his considerable accomplishments.
124
# Define:
pariah
| (puh-**rahy**-uh)
n. an outcast; a rejected or despised person
## Footnote
Alex left the party feeling like a _pariah_.
125
# Define:
indelible
| (in-**del**-uh-buhl)
adj. impossible to remove or to forget
## Footnote
The memory of that day had become _indelible_ in his mind.
126
# Define:
byzantine
| (**biz**-uhn-teen)
adj. complex, intricate, labyrinthine
## Footnote
The _byzantine_ rules of the card game confused everyone.
127
# Define:
inveigh
| (in-**vey**)
v. to attack verbally, to deprecate
## Footnote
The protesters were _inveighing_ against government policies.
128
# Define:
peccadillo
| (pek-uh-**dil**-oh)
n. slight infraction of rules, a minor sin
## Footnote
As a society, we tend to take our politicians to task over _peccadilloes_ while overlooking the failings of our political system as a whole.
129
# Define:
panegyric
| (pan-ih-**djirr**-ik)
n. a formal and elaborate public compliment; praise, laudation
## Footnote
The mayor extended a _panegyric_ to all of the citizens who were fighting overseas.
130
# Define:
quaff
| (**kwaf**)
v. to drink deeply; to intoxicate oneself with great enjoyment
## Footnote
He _quaffed_ the pint in a three hearty gulps.
131
# Define:
inchoate
| (in-**koe**-it)
adj. not fully formed
## Footnote
An _inchoate_ sense of duty is no substitute for a sober assessment of the hardships that lie ahead if you decide to follow your husband to his remote post.
132
# Define:
essay
| (n., **ess**-ey; v., ess-**ey**)
n. an attempt or trial
v. to test, try, experiment, investigate
## Footnote
My frequent _essays_ at piano playing have only met with failure.
133
# Define:
incisive
| (in-**sahy**-siv)
adj. quick to understand or perceptive
adj. clearly expressed; decisive
## Footnote
The boy's _incisive_ mind allowed him to excel in all of his classes.
134
# Define:
incorrigible
| (in-**kor**-ih-juh-bull)
adj. unable to be corrected or reformed
## Footnote
_Incorrigible_ juvenile offenders are sent to a special program within the prison.
135
# Define:
inculcate
| (ing-**cull**-kate)
v. to teach by frequent repetition
## Footnote
Throughout the year, the faculty is expected to _inculcate_ the essentials of fire safety in the students.
136
# Define:
indigenous
| (in-**didj**-ih-nuss)
adj. originating in a certain place
## Footnote
The Aborigines are a people _indigenous_ to Australia.
137
# Define:
indigent
| (**in**-dih-djunt)
adj. extremely poor
## Footnote
The organization's mission was to provide educational resources to _indigent_ women in various countries.
138
# Define:
indolent
| (**in**-dull-uhnt)
adj. habitually lazy
adj. causing little or no pain
## Footnote
The company's owner decided to fire the most _indolent_ workers first.
139
# Define:
redolent
| (**red**-uhl-uhnt)
adj. fragrant, suggestive, or evocative
## Footnote
The fraternity house was _redolent_ of stale beer and day-old pizza
140
# Define:
provident
| (**prov**-ih-duhnt)
adj. looking to the future
adj. frugal
## Footnote
The young couple's _provident_ financial planning was an asset to them later in life.
141
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. delicate, insubstantial, flimsy
gossamer
| (**goss**-uh-murr)
## Footnote
synonyms: thin, delicate, light, fragile, airy, ethereal
The _gossamer_ fabric of her dress fluttered in the breeze.
142
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. hostile, unfriendly
inimical
| (ih-**nim**-ih-kuhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: antagonistic, harmful, adverse, detrimental
The _inimical_ comments from the critics hurt the artist deeply.
143
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. boastful of one's accomplishments or accolades; vain
vainglorious
| (veyn-**glawr**-ee-us)
## Footnote
synonyms: immodest, self-absorbed, conceited, narcissistic
His _vainglorious_ speech about his achievements bored the audience.
144
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. an outcast; a rejected or despised person
pariah
| (puh-**rahy**-uh)
## Footnote
synonyms: vagabond, persona non grata, leper, outlier
After the scandal, he became a _pariah_ in his community.
145
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. impossible to remove or to forget
indelible
| (in-**del**-uh-buhl)
## Footnote
synonyms: enduring, lasting, unforgettable, permanent, ineradicable
The _indelible_ memories of her childhood shaped who she became.
146
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. labyrinthine, complex. intricate
byzantine
| (**biz**-uhn-teen)
## Footnote
synonyms: convoluted, elaborate, complicated, tortuous
The _byzantine_ regulations made it difficult for small businesses to operate.
147
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to attack verbally, deprecate
inveigh
| (in-**vey**)
## Footnote
synonyms: remonstrate, lambaste, berate, rail against
He began to _inveigh_ against the new policies during the meeting.
148
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. slight infraction of rules, a minor sin
peccadillo
| (pek-uh-**dil**-oh)
## Footnote
synonyms: faux pas, misdemeanor, vice, infraction, error
His _peccadillo_ of forgetting to RSVP was forgiven by his friends.
149
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a formal and elaborate public compliment; praise, laudation
panegyric
| (pan-ih-**djirr**-ik)
## Footnote
synonyms: flattery, compliment, credit, tribute, eulogy
The mayor delivered a _panegyric_ in honor of the retiring teacher.
150
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to drink deeply; to intoxicate oneself with great enjoyment
quaff
| (**kwaf**)
## Footnote
synonyms: guzzle, swig, imbibe, sip
After a long day, he would _quaff_ a cold beer on the porch.
151
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. not fully formed
inchoate
| (in-**koe**-it)
## Footnote
synonyms: undeveloped, beginning, elementary, nascent, rudimentary
The _inchoate_ idea needed more development before it could be presented.
152
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. an attempt or trial
v. to test, try, experiment, investigate
essay
| (n., **ess**-ey, v., ess-**ey**)
## Footnote
synonyms: experiment, endeavor, attempt, trial, examination, assessment
His first _essay_ at painting was filled with bold colors and energy.
She decided to _essay_ a new approach to solving the problem.
153
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. quick to understand or perceptive
adj. clearly expressed; decisive
incisive
| (in-**sahy**-siv)
## Footnote
synonyms: intelligent, quick; clear-cut, shrewd, sharp
Her _incisive_ comments during the discussion highlighted her deep understanding of the topic.
The CEO's _incisive_ speech laid out the company's vision with clarity.
154
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. unable to be corrected or reformed
incorrigible
| (in-**kor**-ih-juh-bull)
## Footnote
synonyms: rebellious, disobedient, incurable, irredeemable, hopeless
His _incorrigible_ behavior in school led to multiple suspensions.
155
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to teach by frequent repetition
inculcate
| (ing-**cull**-kate)
## Footnote
synonyms: communicate, drill, instill, impart, indoctrinate
The teacher aimed to _inculcate_ good study habits in her students.
156
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. originating in a certain place
indigenous
| (in-**didj**-ih-nuss)
## Footnote
synonyms: native, inborn, aboriginal, local, endemic
The _indigenous_ cultures of the region have rich traditions and histories.
157
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. extremely poor
indigent
| (**in**-dih-djunt)
## Footnote
synonyms: destitute, impoverished, needy, penniless
The charity provides support for _indigent_ families in the community.
158
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. habitually lazy
adj. causing little or no pain
indolent
| (**in**-dull-uhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: idle, lazy; insensitive, slothful, lethargic
His _indolent_ attitude made it difficult for him to meet deadlines.
The _indolent_ tumor was discovered during a routine check-up.
159
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. fragrant, suggestive or evocative
redolent
| (**red**-uhl-uhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: aromatic, imbued with, scented, perfumed
The garden was _redolent_ with the scent of blooming flowers.
160
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. looking to the future
adj. frugal
provident
| (**prov**-ih-duhnt)
## Footnote
synonyms: cautious, prepared; thrifty, prudent, foresighted
Her _provident_ nature led her to save money for emergencies.
The _provident_ shopper always looked for the best deals.
161
# Define:
untoward
| (uhn-**tawrd**)
adj. troublesome, unruly, adverse, or indecent
## Footnote
This is not the first time I have noted _untoward_ similarities between those two students' papers.
162
# Define:
paean
| (**pee**-uhn)
n. a song or expression of joy or praise
## Footnote
After their country won the World Cup, the band wrote a _paean_ to the national team that became a Top 20 hit.
163
# Define:
aspersion
| (uh-**spur**-zhuhn)
n. the act of defamation or maligning; a derogatory remark
## Footnote
The _aspersions_ cast by his political opponent took weeks to eradicate.
164
# Define:
lucid
| (**lue**-sid)
adj. easy to understand
adj. transparent (permitting light to pass through)
adj. having a clear mind
## Footnote
The artist was unable to express his abstract ideas in a _lucid_ manner.
165
# Define:
luminous
| (**lue**-muh-nus)
adj. emitting light; bright
adj. enlightening
## Footnote
My friend raves about this "_luminous_" collection of poems, though I didn't think it was particularly insightful.
166
# Define:
luxuriant
| (lug-**zhure**-ee-unt)
adj. growing in extreme abundance
adj. luxurious and complexly detailed
## Footnote
Anne's _luxuriant_ garden was considered the nicest in the neighborhood.
167
# Define:
malevolent
| (muh-**lev**-uh-lunt)
adj. wishing evil on others
## Footnote
The _malevolent_ old woman was always trying to make her neighbors miserable.
168
# Define:
manifest
| (**man**-ih-fest)
n. a list of the people aboard a ship or plane
adj. clearly apparent
v. to exhibit a quality
## Footnote
Linda's laziness was _manifest_ in the messy state of her apartment.
169
# Define:
mannered
| (**man**-urd)
adj. artificial or affected
## Footnote
The pretentious socialite had a _mannered_ way of speaking that did not impress many of her peers.
170
# Define:
mantle
| (**man**-tul)
n. a covering or concealing object
n. a symbol of power or duty
## Footnote
Amid the spate of resignations at town hall, the untested woman was forced to accept the _mantle_ of leadership as the town's youngest mayor ever.
171
# Define:
mar
| (**mar**)
v. to make imperfect
n. a mark that damages the appearance of something
## Footnote
Although entertaining and well-written, the screenplay was _marred_ by its dependence on stereotypes instead of well-developed characters.
172
# Define:
martinet
| (mar-tih-**net**)
n. one who demands strict adherence to rules
## Footnote
The nanny was hired for the unruly children because of her reputation as a _martinet_ who would be sure to keep them in line.
173
# Define:
matrix
| (**may**-tricks)
n. a place in which something originates or develops
## Footnote
This computer program is the _matrix_ for the movie's digital art.
174
# Define:
palette
| (**pal**-it)
n. a board used by artists to mix paint colors
n. a range of colors
## Footnote
The poor artist managed to make an interesting piece with a _palette_ of only black and white.
175
# Define:
paradigm
| (**pair**-ih-dahym)
n. a standard example
n. a pattern or model
## Footnote
He used the Civil War as a historical _paradigm_ to support his point.
176
# Define:
paramount
| (**pair**-ih-mount)
adj. most important
## Footnote
Educational reform was a _paramount_ issue for both mayoral candidates.
177
# Define:
parch
| (**parch**)
v. to make dry
v. to make thirsty
## Footnote
The sun's intense heat _parched_ the ground and wilted the leaves on the trees.
178
# Define:
parsimonious
| (par-suh-**moh**-nee-us)
adj. frugal; cheap
## Footnote
Her aunt was too _parsimonious_ to chip in for the family's annual reunion.
179
# Define:
pathology
| (pah-**thol**-uh-djee)
n. the study of disease
n. a disease's progression or manifestation
## Footnote
An oncologist concerns herself with the _pathology_ of cancer.
180
# Define:
paucity
| (**paw**-suh-tee)
n. a small amount
## Footnote
The _paucity_ of resources meant the film had to be made with unpaid actors and few crew members.
181
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. troublesome, unruly, adverse, or indecent
untoward
| (uhn-**tawrd**)
## Footnote
synonyms: problematic, objectionable, inappropriate, difficult
His _untoward_ behavior at the party caused discomfort among the guests.
182
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a song or expression of joy or praise
paean
| (**pee**-uhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: hymn, melody, ode, anthem
The choir sang a _paean_ to celebrate the community's achievements.
183
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the act of defamation or maligning; derogatory remark
aspersion
| (uh-**spur**-zhuhn)
## Footnote
synonyms: abuse, belittlement, slander, disparagement
Her comments were not just criticism; they were an _aspersion_ on his character.
184
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. easy to understand
adj. transparent (permitting light to pass through)
adj. having a clear mind
lucid
| (**lue**-sid)
## Footnote
synonyms: clearheaded, sensible, unblurred, coherent, articulate
His _lucid_ explanation made the complex topic accessible to everyone.
After a good night's sleep, she felt _lucid_ and ready to tackle the day.
185
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. emitting light; bright
adj. enlightening
luminous
| (**lue**-muh-nus)
## Footnote
synonyms: glowing, edifying, radiant, brilliant
The _luminous_ stars filled the night sky with their glow.
The lecture was not only informative but also _luminous_ in its insights.
186
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. growing in extreme abundance
adj. luxurious and complexly detailed
luxuriant
| (lug-**zhure**-ee-unt)
## Footnote
synonyms: fertile, lush, prolific, opulent, extravagant
The _luxuriant_ vegetation in the rainforest is home to countless species.
The garden was a _luxuriant_ display of flowers and foliage, delighting every visitor.
187
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. wishing evil on others
malevolent
| (muh-**lev**-uh-lunt)
## Footnote
synonyms: hateful, malicious, malignant, spiteful, vindictive
His _malevolent_ glare sent chills down her spine.
188
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a list of the people aboard a ship or plane
adj. clearly apparent
v. to exhibit a quality
manifest
| (**man**-ih-fest)
## Footnote
synonyms: ledger; conspicuous, unambiguous; demonstrate, show, display, reveal
The captain checked the _manifest_ to ensure all passengers were accounted for.
Her kindness _manifests_ in her willingness to help those in need.
189
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. artificial or affected
mannered
| (**man**-urd)
## Footnote
synonyms: unnatural, stilted, affected, contrived
His _mannered_ speech made him seem insincere and pretentious.
190
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a covering or concealing object
n. a symbol of power or duty
mantle
| (**man**-tul)
## Footnote
synonyms: cloak, covering, shroud, cape
The old _mantle_ hung above the fireplace, filled with memories.
He took on the _mantle_ of leadership with great responsibility.
191
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to make imperfect
n. a mark that damages the appearance of something
mar
| (**mar**)
## Footnote
synonyms: hurt, blemish, ruin, deface, spoil
The scratches on the surface will _mar_ the beauty of the table.
The small _mar_ on the painting was hardly noticeable but still bothered her.
192
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. one who demands strict adherence to rules
martinet
| (mar-tih-**net**)
## Footnote
synonyms: authoritarian, enforcer, disciplinarian, taskmaster
The teacher was a _martinet_, enforcing rules with an iron fist.
193
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a place in which something originates or develops
matrix
| (**may**-tricks)
## Footnote
synonyms: forge, source, origin, framework, environment
The _matrix_ of the organization fosters innovation and creativity.
194
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a board used by artists to mix paint colors
n. a range of colors
palette
| (**pal**-it)
## Footnote
synonyms: paint board, spectrum, color range, mixing board
The artist's _palette_ was filled with vibrant hues.
The interior designer chose a _palette_ of soft pastels for the room.
195
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a standard example
n. a pattern or model
paradigm
| (**pair**-ih-dahym)
## Footnote
synonyms: archetype, template, model, example
The new research provides a _paradigm_ for understanding climate change.
The shift in the company's _paradigm_ allowed for greater flexibility.
196
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. most important
paramount
| (**pair**-ih-mount)
## Footnote
synonyms: principal, prominent, significant, supreme, chief
Safety is _paramount_ in any construction project.
197
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
v. to make dry
v. to make thirsty
parch
| (**parch**)
## Footnote
synonyms: dehydrate, dry, evaporate, desiccate, wither
The hot sun will quickly _parch_ the landscape.
The long hike through the desert began to _parch_ his throat.
198
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
adj. frugal; cheap
parsimonious
| (par-suh-**moh**-nee-us)
## Footnote
synonyms: penurious, miserly, simple, stingy, thrifty
Her _parsimonious_ nature made her hesitant to spend money on luxuries.
199
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. the study of disease
n. a disease's progression or manifestation
pathology
| (pah-**thol**-uh-djee)
## Footnote
synonyms: disease science, medicine, epidemiology
_Pathology_ plays a crucial role in diagnosing medical conditions.
The _pathology_ of the disease can vary significantly between patients.
200
# Which of your vocabulary words means the following?
n. a small amount
paucity
| (**paw**-suh-tee)
## Footnote
synonyms: lack, scarcity, dearth, insufficiency
There was a _paucity_ of evidence to support his claims.
