G2T - vocab Flashcards

Question

heterodox

Answer 1

heterodox characterized by departure from accepted beliefs or standards - **[adj]** *Heterodox* is from the Greek root words *heteros*, meaning "the other," and *doxa*, meaning "opinion." The adjective *heterodox* was first applied to people who held a different religious opinion from the standard beliefs and teachings. Today, although the religious meaning remains, the adjective *heterodox* can describe someone who adheres to any atypical beliefs, such as scientists who buck the current thinking or politicians who do not toe the party line. The word can be a synonym of *heretical*, which describes someone with contrary beliefs. If you are a teacher with a *heterodox* teaching style, you may win over students but alarm your more traditional colleagues.

Answer 2

hirsute having or covered with hair - **[adj]** What do Santa Claus, Bigfoot, and unicorns have in common? Aside from the fact that they’re completely real, they’re also *hirsute*: very, very hairy creatures. All mammals have hair, but the ones that have way more than others, you might call them hirsute. There are hirsute people, like lumberjacks with a jungle of chest hair, bearded ladies at a circus, or just someone with a scraggly hairdo. The word is pronounced "HER-suit," so if you see a woman wearing a furry jacket with matching pants, you could say, "Her suit is *hirsute*." Just make sure it’s actually a suit and not her real hair.

Answer 3

histrionic characteristic of acting or a stage performance; often affected - **[adj]** **histrionic** gestures Anything that has to do with actors or acting can be called *histrionic*, like a Broadway actor's *histrionic* voice projection that would sound strange in everyday life but is perfect for the stage. The adjective *histrionic*, pronounced "his-tree-ON-ic," comes from the Latin words *histrionicus* and *histrio* which mean "actor." It can describe things that have to do with acting on the stage, but it can also describe a person who in regular life is a little too dramatic and even over-acts, like your friend whose histrionic rantings make a trip to the grocery store seem like a matter of life and death.

Answer 4

homeostasis (physiology) metabolic equilibrium actively maintained by several complex biological mechanisms that operate via the autonomic nervous system to offset disrupting changes - **[n]** * Homeostasis* is a word you learn in biology. It refers to a cell's *home* state––the way it wants to be, and should be if everything that regulates the cell is working. Although seeing *stasis* inside the word *homeostasis* might make you think there's something static or still about it, there's not; *homeostasis* is only achieved through the running of complicated systems in the body that regulate metabolic activity. "Once all the poison had been flushed from the body, the patient's cells began again to maintain *homeostasis*. The patient's color returned and she was able to get out of bed."

Answer 5

homily a sermon on a moral or religious topic - **[n]** A *homily* is a sermon or religious speech offering encouragement or moral correction. Isn’t it strange how sometimes, when you're struggling with something, a preacher comes on TV giving a *homily* on that same problem?! Too bad it happens when you do bad stuff, too. In many churches and lecture halls, a homily is just a short message on a religious topic or moral issue that's meant to encourage those who hear it. Another type of homily, though, is one that's judgmental or condemning. If you hear a homily and feel better afterward, even if it delivers hard truths about right and wrong, you've heard an uplifting homily. One that leaves you mad and frustrated, however, might make you need another homily on forgiveness and self-control.

Answer 6

homogeneous all of the same or similar kind or nature - **[adj]** a close-knit **homogeneous** group If a group of things are *homogeneous*, they're all the same or similar, like a room full of identically dressed Elvis impersonators. The adjective *homogeneous* comes from the Greek *homogenes*, meaning "of the same kind." You can break down the root of the word further into two parts: *homos*, meaning "same," and *genos*, meaning "kind, gender, race, stock." It sounds very scientific, but if you look around the table at home and everyone is eating a bowl of oatmeal, you could safely describe your family’s breakfast tastes as homogeneous.

Answer 7

jaundiced affected by jaundice which causes yellowing of skin etc - **[adj]** showing or affected by prejudice or envy or distaste - **[adj]** looked with a **jaundiced** eye on the growth of regimentation "takes a **jaundiced** view of societies and clubs" So you wake up in the morning and look in the mirror. To your surprise, and horror, instead of your usual rosy complexion, your skin is yellow and the whites of your eyes are yellow, too! You, my friend, are *jaundiced*. *Jaundice* is from the Greek, *ikteros*, which referred to both the disease and a rare, yellow bird. It was thought that someone with *jaundice* could stare at this yellow bird, and the *jaundice* would be magically transferred to the bird. *Jaundiced* can also refer to ideas or feelings being distorted by negative views or qualities, since yellow has been associated with bitterness and envy. Too bad there is no bird to get rid of that!

Answer 8

jibe shift from one side of the ship to the other - **[v]** an aggressive remark directed at a person like a missile and intended to have a telling effect - **[n]** be compatible, similar or consistent; coincide in their characteristics - **[v]** To *jibe* with someone is to agree with them. *Jibe* can also mean "be compatible with or similar to." If two people *jibe*, they get along quite well. A *jibe* can also be an insulting remark as another way to spell *gibe*. If someone directs that kind of jibe at you, the best response is a really good comeback. And in nautical terminology, *jibe* refers to a particular manner of changing the course of a ship. How did this word come to have such different meanings? Your guess is as good as ours. Just try to remember that if you want to jibe with others, don’t insult them.

Answer 9

jocose characterized by jokes and good humor - **[adj]** Your friend Robert who always makes funny observations and light-hearted quips? He’s *jocose*, meaning he's good humored and jokes around a lot. Latin may not seem like a lot of laughs sometimes, but it is responsible for injecting a little humor into English words that have their origins in *jocus*, the Latin word meaning "joke" or "jest." *Jocose*, *jocular*, *joke* — they all come from *jocus*. *Jocose* first came into English in the seventeenth century as a way to describe something that’s characterized by a playful, merry humor.

Answer 10

juggernaut a massive inexorable force that seems to crush everything in its way - **[n]** *Juggernaut* means a massive force. If the army marching into your country is a *juggernaut*, you're doomed. If you're trying to market a new Cola product, you're up against corporate giant Coca-Cola, a beverage *juggernaut* if ever there was one. With its roots in Hindi, *juggernaut* originally referred to a crude statue from which the Hindu god, Brahma, turned into the living god, Krishna. There continues to be a festival in honor of this miracle, in which a statue of Krishna is carted through town. It is said that in times past, devotees would throw themselves under the cart’s wheels.

Answer 11

junta a group of military officers who rule a country after seizing power - **[n]** When a government is overthrown, the coalition or group that forms and takes control is called a *junta.* If the military has seized control, as so often happens, then the group is called a military *junta*. *Junta* is pronounced with an initial *h* sound, which gives you a clue to its origins. It’s from the Spanish *junta,* for a military or political group ruling the country after it has been taken over. Spanish got *junta* from the Latin *jungere,* to join. Remember, all the players in the junta must join together to over through the government.

Answer 12

juxtapose place side by side - **[v]** The fauvists **juxtaposed** strong colors See the word "pose" in *juxtapose*? When you *juxtapose*, you are "posing" or positioning things side by side. The verb *juxtapose* requires contrasting things placed next to one other: "The collage *juxtaposed* pictures of Jane while she was growing up and as an adult." *Juxtapose* is used often when referring to contrasting elements in the arts. "The music *juxtaposed* the instrumentation of jazz with the harmonies of soul."

Answer 13

iconoclastic characterized by attack on established beliefs or institutions - **[adj]** destructive of images used in religious worship; said of religions, such as Islam, in which the representation of living things is prohibited - **[adj]** The word *iconoclastic* is an adjective referring to a breaking of established rules or destruction of accepted beliefs. It might refer to an artist with an unorthodox style, or an *iconoclastic* attack, either physical or verbal, on a religious doctrine or image. Consider the Greek word *eikōn*, or "image," coupled with *-klastēs*, "one who breaks," and you get a good image of someone who is iconoclastic. An iconoclastic approach to religion involves tearing down the icons representing the church. While this was once done physically, through riots and mayhem, today’s iconoclasts usually prefer using words. Not all iconoclasts are destructive, however. An iconoclastic approach to art and music has given rise to the development of new genres and styles through breaking the rules.

Answer 14

idolatry the worship of idols; the worship of images that are not God - **[n]** religious zeal; the willingness to serve God - **[n]** * Idolatry* means the worship of images as if they were gods. Many religions prohibit *idolatry*, some even to the extent of forbidding any representational objects in houses of worship. * Idol* sits at the head of the word *idolatry*. If you worship––or even just look up to––a person or a thing, you are said to *idolize* them. For some modern *idolaters*, money is their idol, while for others it is celebrities and for still others their jobs.

Answer 15

igneous produced by the action of fire or intense heat - **[adj]** produced under conditions involving intense heat - **[adj]** like or suggestive of fire - **[adj]** rocks formed by **igneous** agents "**igneous** rock is rock formed by solidification from a molten state" "**igneous** fusion is fusion by heat alone" You might remember this one from earth science class. An *igneous* rock is one that forms through intense, fiery heat––usually in a volcano. It starts out molten (so hot it melts into liquid), then solidifies as it cools. So, it’s rock that has "ignited." *Igneous* comes from the Latin *ignis* "fire." Granite and basalt are good examples of igneous rock that started out as blazing hot lava and morphed into harder stuff as their temperature dropped. FYI, the other main types of rocks are sedimentary and metamorphic and, technically, you could use *igneous* to describe other things that are rare or fiery, but it would sound pretty stilted and most people wouldn’t know what you meant.

Answer 16

imbroglio an intricate and confusing interpersonal or political situation - **[n]** a very embarrassing misunderstanding - **[n]** An *imbroglio* is a complicated or confusing personal situation. To rephrase the J. Geils band song, "Love Stinks," if you love her and she loves him and he loves somebody else, you've got quite an *imbroglio*. Although an *imbroglio* is a tangled situation or a messy complicated misunderstanding, its history is just the opposite, clear as a bell. *Imbroglio* is just a borrowed word from Italian meaning "entanglement." If something embarrassing happens at a public event, such as a mishap during the musical performances at the Super Bowl, it is sometimes called an imbroglio.

Answer 17

immutable not subject or susceptible to change or variation in form or quality or nature - **[adj]** the view of that time was that all species were **immutable**, created by God If you can't change it, it's *immutable*. There are many things in life that are immutable; these unchangeable things include death, taxes, and the laws of physics. The adjective *immutable* has Latin roots that mean "not changeable." The Latin prefix for not is *in*, but the spelling changes when the prefix is put before the consonant *m*. It is *im* before a root word starting with *m* as in *immutable*. If you learn this rule, you'll know the immutable fact that immutable begins with *i*-*m*-*m*.

Answer 18

impair make worse or less effective - **[v]** make imperfect - **[v]** His vision was **impaired** If you make bad decisions in the morning after drinking coffee, you might conclude that caffeine tends to *impair* your judgment. When you *impair* something, you damage it or make it work poorly. The root of the verb *impair* traces back to the Latin word *pejorare*, meaning "to make worse," and that’s still what happens if you impair something. Whether it’s communication, visibility, or your marriage prospects, if you *impair* it, you make it worse. The word can be used for situations that describe something that has deteriorated, such as "Snow continued to *impair* driving conditions."

Answer 19

impassive having or revealing little emotion or sensibility; not easily aroused or excited - **[adj]** deliberately impassive in manner - **[adj]** her **impassive** remoteness ""he remained **impassive**, showing neither interest in nor concern for our plight"- Nordhoff & Hall" Someone who doesn't seem to react — who is always "taking a pass" in the conversation of life can be described as *impassive*. *Impassive* is tricky, as it sounds it should be the opposite of *passive.* It's not, though. The fact is you can be passive and impassive at the same time. When a passive person gets passed over for a promotion at work, their face might remain impassive upon hearing the news.

Answer 20

impecunious not having enough money to pay for necessities - **[adj]** If you are hard up, broke, penniless, or strapped for cash, you could describe yourself as *impecunious*. Then maybe you could make some money teaching vocabulary words. *Impecunious* comes from the old Latin word for money, *pecunia*, combined with the prefix *im*, meaning not or without. But *impecunious* doesn’t just mean having no money. It means that you almost never have any money. If you go into the arts, you are most likely facing an impecunious future. If you gamble away your cash instead of saving it for rent, your landlord might throw you out for being impecunious.

Answer 21

impede be a hindrance or obstacle to - **[v]** block passage through - **[v]** She is **impeding** the progress of our project To *impede* something is to delay or block its progress or movement. Carrying six heavy bags will impede your progress if you're trying to walk across town. *Impede* comes from the Latin *impedire* which literally means "to hold the feet," formed from the prefix *in-* "in" plus *pes* "foot." Think about walking with a cast on your foot––how slow and awkward that would be. If you have a hard time reading, that will impeded your progress in math. An *impediment* is something that impedes, such as a physical defect that affects speech––a speech impediment.

Answer 22

impermeable preventing especially liquids to pass or diffuse through - **[adj]** **impermeable** stone "an **impermeable** layer of scum" "a coat **impermeable** to rain" If you have a waterproof raincoat, you could say that your coat is *impermeable* to the rain. Something that is *impermeable* does not allow water or liquid to pass through it. Made up of the prefix *im*-, meaning "not," and the adjective *permeable*, meaning "allowing to pass through," *impermeable* is used in much the same way as *impervious* or *impenetrable*. However, more so than these words, *impermeable* is especially associated with liquids and is often used in a scientific or technical context. Some gadgets, like waterproof watches and underwater cameras, are designed to be impermeable.

Answer 23

imperturbable not easily perturbed or excited or upset; marked by extreme calm and composure - **[adj]** hitherto **imperturbable**, he now showed signs of alarm "an **imperturbable** self-possession" If you're *imperturbable* you are not easily upset. If your goal is to be *imperturbable*, then you can't let things bother you or get you stressed, confused, or angry. The adjective *imperturbable* is the flip side of *perturbable*, which comes from *perturb*, which in turn traces back to the Latin word *perturbare*, meaning "to confuse" or "to disturb." If something really annoying is going on, like one neighbor is jack-hammering his driveway and another has a dog that's barking while you're trying to sleep because you were up all night studying and you really really need a nap, but you stay calm and don’t get upset, you are imperturbable.

Answer 24

impervious not admitting of passage or capable of being affected - **[adj]** a material **impervious** to water "someone **impervious** to argument" An *impervious* surface is one that can't be penetrated. The word is often followed by "to," as in "His steely personality made him *impervious* to jokes about his awful haircut." Most of the sentences you'll run across using *impervious* will be followed by the word "to" and a noun. Things are often described as being impervious to physical assaults like *heat, water, bullets, weather,* and *attack*, but just as frequently to less tangible things, like *reason, criticism, pain,* and *pressure*. The word comes from Latin: *in-* + *pervius*, meaning "not letting things through." A common synonym is *impermeable*.

Answer 25

impinge impinge or infringe upon - **[v]** advance beyond the usual limit - **[v]** This **impinges** on my rights as an individual Whether you have a habit of standing too close when talking to others or bringing luggage on a crowded rush-hour subway car, you'll find people don't like it when you *impinge* on their personal space. When you impinge, you intrude on something, whether it’s someone else’s space, time, or rights. Think of it as moving in on someone’s territory. The word also can be used in the sense of affecting something, usually negatively, often by restricting it. For example, constantly inviting your friend to go shopping and meet you in nice restaurants might *impinge* on her desire to save money.

Answer 26

implacable incapable of being placated - **[adj]** an **implacable** enemy An *implacable* person just can’t be appeased. If you really offended your best friend and tried every kind of apology but she refused to speak to you again, you could describe her as *implacable*. *Implacable* is derived from the verb to *placate*, which means to soothe, or to appease. If you’re babysitting and the kid starts screaming the moment that his parents leave the house, and nothing you give him, be it a toy or ice cream, can calm him down, he might seem implacable. But try the TV. It tends to turn screaming kids into silent, happy zombies.

Answer 27

implausible highly imaginative but unlikely - **[adj]** having a quality that provokes disbelief - **[adj]** an **implausible** explanation "gave the teacher an **implausible** excuse" Something that's *Implausible* is farfetched or unlikely. If it's 3pm and you still have to study for three exams and write an essay before midnight, it’s *implausible* that you’ll also have time to watch a movie. The adjective *implausible* breaks down into *im*, meaning "not," and "plausible," meaning likely. So it simply means "not likely." Implausible ideas or stories usually get high marks for creativity, but they're just too crazy to be believable. But as philosopher Rene Descartes noted, "One cannot conceive anything so strange and so implausible that it has not already been said by one philosopher or another."

Answer 28

implicit implied though not directly expressed; inherent in the nature of something - **[adj]** being without doubt or reserve - **[adj]** an **implicit** agreement not to raise the subject "there was **implicit** criticism in his voice" "anger was **implicit** in the argument" Use the adjective *implicit* when you mean that something is understood but not clearly stated. You might think you and your boyfriend might have an *implicit* understanding that you are going to get married, but it's probably better to talk it through. A very near synonym of *implicit* in this particular meaning is the word *implied*. But the adjective *implicit* also means "complete without any doubt," so we can say that we have *implicit* trust or confidence in someone. The Latin root *implicāre* means "to involve or entangle." Another English word with a more obvious connection to the Latin is the verb *implicate*.

Answer 29

implode burst inward - **[v]** The bottle **imploded** When something *implodes*, it explodes inward — instead of outward. With extremely large buildings, it helps to *implode* them rather than explode them, because by falling inward they take up less space. Why bother to have a word like *implode* when you already have *explode*? Well, imagine there is something deep beneath the sea, being subjected to the intense pressure there. If the pressure is high enough that the object bursts, it would collapse in rather than out. It would, in fact, implode. People also sometimes use *implode* to describe a person subjected to intense pressures who, emotionally at least, bursts inward: "All that stress just made Jess *implode*."

Answer 30

imprecation the act of calling down a curse that invokes evil (and usually serves as an insult) - **[n]** a slanderous accusation - **[n]** he suffered the **imprecations** of the mob If you really don't like someone you can shout out an *imprecation* at them. More than simply the use of bad language (although that can be involved, too), an *imprecation* is a damning curse wishing them nothing but ill. Originally from a Latin word meaning to "invoke evil" or "bring down bad spirits upon." Not to be confused with *implication,* a similar-sounding word with the completely unrelated meaning of implying something indirectly. These are two very commonly confused words, so be careful. You don't want an imprecation blasted down upon you from someone who really cares about language.

Answer 31

impute attribute or credit to - **[v]** attribute (responsibility or fault) to a cause or source - **[v]** People **impute** great cleverness to cats "The teacher **imputed** the student's failure to his nervousness" The verb *impute* can be used to blame someone for doing something bad, give credit for good work, or just tell it like it is, like when you *impute* your lateness to my not telling you where to meet me. When you impute something, you name the cause of something that has happened. For example, you might impute your ability to sing well to the thousands of dollars your parents spent in voice lessons. In other words, you name the source. You can also impute a person, like imputing to a teacher your love of learning — he or she helped you become more interested in school and your classes.

Answer 32

inadvertently without knowledge or intention - **[adv]** *Inadvertently* is an adverb that means "without knowledge or intent," like when you *inadvertently* take someone else's coat from the coatroom because it looks just like yours. When you do something inadvertently, you don't mean to do it — you might inadvertently step in a puddle, leave something important at home, or hurt your friend's feelings. Some things that happen inadvertently aren't mistakes, though: They happen by chance. For example, if you just happen to park your car at the exact place that blocks a bus from hitting a pedestrian, you've inadvertently saved a life.

Answer 33

incarnate possessing or existing in bodily form - **[adj]** invested with a bodily form especially of a human body - **[adj]** represent in bodily form - **[v]** make concrete and real - **[v]** an **incarnate** spirit "a monarch...regarded as a god **incarnate**" *Incarnate* means "having a bodily form." If you encounter someone who pulls off butterflies’ wings for fun, you might describe that person as "evil *incarnate*." The meaning of *incarnate* is precisely what its Latin roots suggest. The prefix *in-* means "in" and *caro* means "flesh," so *incarnate* means "in the flesh." The word can be used in positive or negative situations, but it always describes an unusual, possibly miraculous instance in which something that can’t normally be seen or touched assumes a bodily form. For example, the Christian religion was founded on the belief that Jesus was God incarnate.

Answer 34

inchoate only partly in existence; imperfectly formed - **[adj]** a vague **inchoate** idea * Inchoate* means just beginning to form. You can have an *inchoate* idea, like the earliest flickers of images for your masterpiece, or it can be a feeling, like the *inchoate* sense of anger toward your new neighbor’s talking parrot. * Inchoate* comes from a Latin word for beginning. When something is inchoate, although you don’t yet understand what it is fully, you have a strong sense that it is indeed coming. It’s stronger than the wisp of an idea that never turns into anything. But it’s hard to really find the language to describe an inchoate idea. That’s the whole point: you don’t have the words for it yet!

Answer 35

incongruity the quality of disagreeing; being unsuitable and inappropriate - **[n]** *Incongruity* means out of place — something that doesn't fit in its location or situation. The art show patrons couldn't help but chuckle at the *incongruity* of a toilet sitting in the middle of an exhibition of Renaissance paintings. An *incongruity* is very different from everything around it, to the point of being inappropriate to the situation. A cat at a dog's birthday party would be an *incongruity*, as would a pacifist at a meeting of the War Lovers' Society. *Incongruity* is the idea that something is *incongruous*, or inappropriate. A purple towel is an incongruity in an all black-and-white bathroom.

Answer 36

inconsequential lacking worth or importance - **[adj]** not following logically as a consequence - **[adj]** his work seems trivial and **inconsequential** If something is considered of little worth or importance, it is *inconsequential.* If astronomers forecast a tremendous meteor shower, it might turn out to be no more than space junk, too *inconsequential* to record. You can use the adjective *inconsequential* to describe things that just don’t matter or are of no relevance, as in "the rainy forecast is totally *inconsequential* — the bowling tournament is inside!" It also describes things that don't make sense in a certain order, "trying to win their votes is *inconsequential*: the election's over." Something small or minor can be inconsequential too, though the red bump on your nose on picture-day may not seem as inconsequential to you as it does to the photographer.

Answer 37

incorporate make into a whole or make part of a whole - **[v]** form a corporation - **[v]** She **incorporated** his suggestions into her proposal "**incorporate** this document with those pertaining to the same case" To *incorporate* is to include or integrate a part into the whole. *Incorporate* is a more active version of the word "include"; if you *incorporate*, you are adding something to the mix. In the business world, to incorporate is a legal process. In other usages, the word *incorporate* really just means to include something or work something into whatever was already existing. You could incorporate your new roommate's furniture into the decor of your apartment, but you may not find a way to incorporate her cat's litter box.

Answer 38

incursion the act of entering some territory or domain (often in large numbers) - **[n]** the mistake of incurring liability or blame - **[n]** the **incursion** of television into the American living room When an army crosses a border into another country for battle, they are making an *incursion* into enemy territory. An *incursion* is an invasion as well as an attack. *Incursion* can also be used to describe other things that rush in like an army such as an invasive species into a new region or floodwaters entering your home. When an airplane heads onto a runway it is not supposed to land on, risking airport safety, it is known as a runway incursion. And an incursion of cold air could make September feel like December.

Answer 39

indeterminate not precisely determined or established; not fixed or known in advance - **[adj]** of uncertain or ambiguous nature - **[adj]** having a capacity for continuing to grow at the apex - **[adj]** not capable of being determined - **[adj]** not leading to a definite ending or result - **[adj]** of **indeterminate** age "a zillion is a large **indeterminate** number" "an **indeterminate** point of law" *Indeterminate* means not known or decided. When someone contracts a rare stomach parasite but has not been traveling internationally, you might say it had *indeterminate* origins. It's important to distinguish *indeterminate* from *undetermined*, which means not yet decided. When you buy an antique vase and don't know when it dates from, you might describe it as of an *indeterminate* era. If you are traveling and don't know when you plan to return home, you could say that your return is as yet *undetermined*.

Answer 40

indigence a state of extreme poverty or destitution - **[n]** their **indigence** appalled him *Indigence* is a synonym for *extreme poverty*. If you experience *indigence*, you have a critical need for food, money, and other resources. To correctly pronounce *indigence*, accent the first syllable: "IN-dih-genz." It means "great lack of material resources," like money. *Indigence* a noun, and *indigent*, an adjective, are related words that have to do with need. If you are indigent — suffering from extreme poverty — you are living in indigence, the state of extreme poverty.

Answer 41

indolent disinclined to work or exertion - **[adj]** (of tumors, e.g.) slow to heal or develop and usually painless - **[adj]** an **indolent** hanger-on "an **indolent** ulcer" "leprosy is an **indolent** infectious disease" *Indolent* is an adjective meaning slow or lazy. It can take an *indolent* teenager hours to get out of bed on a weekend morning. Often it's noon before he finally comes shuffling down to breakfast in his pajamas. An *indolent* person is slow and lazy — not the type of person you'd want running your corporation or competing with you in a relay race. Doctors use the word *indolent* to describe medical conditions that are slow to progress. If you're diagnosed with an illness, you'd prefer an *indolent* one over one that spreads quickly.

Answer 42

ineluctable impossible to avoid or evade:"inescapable conclusion" - **[adj]** an **ineluctable** destiny Huh? Are you scratching your head at this word? The *ineluctable* conclusion is that you haven't the faintest idea what it means. *Ineluctable* means impossible to avoid. A five syllable beauty like *ineluctable* is obviously not the kind of word you throw around in daily speech. It's far more often used as a written word, as in the common phrase "ineluctable conclusion." Used interchangeably with the more common *unavoidable,* though *ineluctable* implies an unsuccessful attempt to battle against whatever is ineluctable: after all, it comes from the Latin word "to struggle."

Answer 43

inert unable to move or resist motion - **[adj]** having only a limited ability to react chemically; chemically inactive - **[adj]** she was fat and **inert**"**inert** matter" Something that's unable to move or moving without much energy can be described as *inert*. Wind up in a body cast and you’ll find yourself not only itchy, but totally *inert*. When motion is restricted or sluggish, or when something or someone appears lifeless, the adjective to use is *inert*. A dog who's playing dead is inert, as is a really boring movie. Or for those of you paying attention in chemistry class, you may have heard of inert gases — those elements that won't react with other elements or form chemical compounds.

Answer 44

ingenuous lacking in sophistication or worldliness - **[adj]** characterized by an inability to mask your feelings; not devious - **[adj]** his **ingenuous** explanation that he would not have burned the church if he had not thought the bishop was in it "an **ingenuous** admission of responsibility" Someone who is *ingenuous* shows a childlike innocence, trust, and openness. One of the things kindergarten teachers value is the chance to work with kids while they're still relatively *ingenuous*––their open, trusting natures are a joy. A near synonym is *naive*. Its opposite is *disingenuous*, which means "giving a false impression of being honest and sincere." Don't confuse the word *ingenuous* with the similarly spelled *ingenious*, which means "very smart or clever." *Ingenuous* is from Latin *ingenuus* "having the qualities of people born free, noble, honest, open," ultimately formed from the prefix *in-* "in" plus *gignere* "to produce."

Answer 45

inherent existing as an essential constituent or characteristic - **[adj]** in the nature of something though not readily apparent - **[adj]** shortcomings **inherent** in our approach Use the adjective *inherent* for qualities that are considered permanent or cannot be separated from an essential character. We use the adjective *inherent* to describe attributes that are part of the essential nature of something. It's different from you being tall, rather than being a description, it has to be a quality and this quality is unchangeable. So, for example, if you have never been able to eat spinach, you have an *inherent* dislike of it.

Answer 46

innocuous not injurious to physical or mental health - **[adj]** lacking intent or capacity to injure - **[adj]** not causing disapproval - **[adj]** it was an **innocuous** remark "confined himself to **innocuous** generalities" If you want to reassure someone that something isn't harmful or likely to cause injury, call it *innocuous*. Even an *innocuous* letter from your boyfriend is embarrassing if your parents find it! The adjective, *innocuous,* does not really say what something is, but rather what it is not. Some chemicals, viruses, snakes or websites may be harmful, some remarks or questions may be offensive, but if one of these is innocuous, it is not. The word comes from the Latin roots *in-* "not" and *nocere* "to injure, harm."

Answer 47

insensible barely able to be perceived - **[adj]** incapable of physical sensation - **[adj]** unresponsive to stimulation - **[adj]** unaware of or indifferent to - **[adj]** an almost **insensible** change "**insensible** to pain" "**insensible** earth" The adjective *insensible* is used to describe someone who is unconscious. If you keep your bowling ball on the top shelf of the closet and it rolls out and conks you on the head, you will be probably rendered *insensible*. The adjective *insensible* describes a lack of emotional response or being indifferent. If your friend says that the roller coaster was so scary it nearly made him vomit and you shrug and say, "Eh, it was okay," he may think you are *insensible* to fear. A lack of physical sensation can also be described as *insensible*. If your nerve endings are not acute and you don't feel much pain, you are *insensible* to pain. This can be dangerous, though, because you might not notice if you get hurt skateboarding.

Answer 48

insinuate give to understand - **[v]** introduce or insert (oneself) in a subtle manner - **[v]** I **insinuated** that I did not like his wife "He **insinuated** himself into the conversation of the people at the nearby table" *Insinuate* means you imply or suggest something that may or may not be true. If you say things seemed to go wrong about the time your brother took over, you *insinuate* that he had something to do with the decline. There's another way to insinuate. Suppose you're in line to get into a popular dance club when a celebrity appears, surrounded by a big entourage. If you strike up a conversation with one of the entourage, you may be able to insinuate that you're part of the group and go in with them. Don't feel bad — people have been doing it at least since the 1520s, when *insinuate* evolved from the Latin word *insinuare*, meaning "wind one's way into."

Answer 49

insipid lacking interest or significance or impact - **[adj]** lacking taste or flavor or tang - **[adj]** an **insipid** personality "**insipid** hospital food" Some *insipid* is lacking in flavor or interest. You'll probably find the generic poems inside of greeting cards *insipid*. *Insipid* comes from the Latin *insipidus*, the opposite of *sapidus* which means flavorful. Because spices and salts are left out, hospital food is usually insipid. The most common use of the word is in a metaphorical sense for dull or flat. You might think that your goody-two-shoes cousin is the most insipid girl you've ever met.

Answer 50

insouciant marked by blithe unconcern - **[adj]** an utterly **insouciant** financial policy "an elegantly **insouciant** manner" Only people with no real troubles can afford to be *insouciant* during times like these. Runway models are great at looking *insouciant*, strolling the catwalk apparently without a care in the world. Some prefer their musical idols to be insouciant, seeming not to care what their fans think or want. Others like them more eager to please, happy to take requests and engage. The two obvious examples are Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis. Armstrong would smile and encourage the audience to participate, while Davis was the insouciant master who showed no concern for or interest in what his listeners might prefer: some people found his insouciant manner irresistible.

Answer 51

insularity the state of being isolated or detached - **[n]** The noun *insularity* refers to the quality of being isolated or detached. In fact, the word is based on the Latin word *insula*, for "island." The phrase "no man is an island" means that no one can be completely separate from others. The word *insularity* has a sense of detachment and insulation, but sometimes the meaning is extended to mean being narrow-minded. Parents always try to protect their kids from harm, but sometimes their insularity goes too far. If you grew up in the 1950s, for example, your parents may have wanted to protect you from the evils of Elvis and rock and roll.

Answer 52

insuperable incapable of being surmounted or excelled - **[adj]** impossible to surmount - **[adj]** **insuperable** odds "**insuperable** heroes" Perhaps if you are a superhero, you can tackle an *insuperable* problem — one that is considered impossible to overcome. *Insuperable* is an adjective that is often paired with nouns like *difficulty*, *obstacle*, and *barrier*. An insuperable difficulty is not just difficult; it’s impossible. And an insuperable obstacle is not like a hurdle on a running track that slows you down a little; it stops you entirely. The opposite of *insuperable* is, of course, *superable*, though it’s less commonly used than its negative counterpart.

Answer 53

intangible incapable of being perceived by the senses especially the sense of touch - **[adj]** lacking substance or reality; incapable of being touched or seen - **[adj]** (of especially business assets) not having physical substance or intrinsic productive value - **[adj]** hard to pin down or identify - **[adj]** assets that are saleable though not material or physical - **[n]** the **intangible** constituent of energy"- James Jeans" "that **intangible** thing--the soul" "**intangible** assets such as good will" You can't touch this word — it is *intangible.* You can grasp the meaning of the word in your head, but you can't close your hands around it; you'll just put fingerprints on your monitor. The Latin verb *tangere* means "to touch," and the 16th-century English word *tangible* comes from it. Something intangible can't be touched physically, but most of the time it is understandable or even felt in the heart. Sadness can't be picked up and thrown in the garbage can because it is intangible, but you can throw away the tissues wet with tears. Laughing is intangible too, but you can hold onto movies, pets, and friends that make you laugh.

Answer 54

interdict command against - **[v]** destroy by firepower, such as an enemy's line of communication - **[v]** *Interdict* means to forbid, to nix, to veto. If your parents find out you're planning a party for a time when they're away , they will *interdict* it. If your principal has interdicted gum-chewing at school, he might set up a few random check points, interdicting gum-chewing students with detentions and a command to instantly spit out their offensive, long-lasting candy. To *interdict*, pope-style, is to in essence excommunicate, or prohibit a person or especially a place from the functions and privileges of the church.

Answer 55

internecine (of conflict) within a group or organization - **[adj]** characterized by bloodshed and carnage for both sides - **[adj]** an **internecine** feud among proxy holders "**internecine** war" Prepare yourself, because *internecine* is a gloomy word. It’s an adjective you’d use to describe a bloody battle where both sides are badly hurt. On a lighter note, it can also mean a conflict that tears an organization apart. A combination of the Latin *inter*- ("among") and *necare* ("to kill"), *internecine* conflicts are full of blood and death, and they end up destroying everyone involved, which sounds fair but also awful. Many wars are internecine, as are most Shakespearean tragedies and Hollywood action films. An internecine meeting would be one where everyone gets mad, says really horrible things, and then suddenly leaves, plotting revenge. It’s probably the last meeting for that group, which might be a good thing.

Answer 56

interpolate insert words into texts, often falsifying it thereby - **[v]** estimate the value of - **[v]** In math, to *interpolate* means to estimate the value of something given certain data. If you are looking at a chart that gives the level of pollutants in a lake on Jan. 1 and Feb. 1, you must *interpolate* the level for Jan. 15. At a bake sale, if you check the cash box and look at how many cookies are left over, you can interpolate the results of your fundraiser. When you interpolate words into a text, you alter the text by adding words in. Scholars can identify the original text from material interpolated at a later date. If you are describing an author's work, you might want to interpolate a few examples of his writing into your description.

Answer 57

interregnum the time between two reigns, governments, etc. - **[n]** *Interregnum* describes the period between the reigns of two leaders. If you're a rebel leader, you may try to gain power during an *interregnum*. Pronounce *interregnum* with the accent on the third syllable: "in-ter-REG-num." It comes from Latin: *inter-* means "between" and *regnum* means "kingship, dominion, rule, realm." An interregnum can be marked by no government at all, or it can refer to a different kind of leadership between two similar regimes.

Answer 58

intimate imply as a possibility - **[v]** marked by close acquaintance, association, or familiarity - **[adj]** **intimate** friend ""**intimate** relations between economics, politics, and legal principles" - V.L. Parrington" "pretending she is on an **intimate** footing with those she slanders" *Intimate* means being close. A small restaurant is called *intimate* because you're sitting close to the other people, and your best friends are considered your *intimate* friends. This adjective can mean very friendly, or very personal or private. The original spelling was *intime*, from French, from Latin *intimus* "innermost," from *intus* "within." The related verb *intimate* means to hint or suggest. *Intimate* is also a noun meaning a close friend or associate. And when you get intimate with someone, it can mean that you're sexually involved.

Answer 59

intractable not tractable; difficult to manage or mold - **[adj]** an **intractable** disposition "**intractable** pain" "the most **intractable** issue of our era" Can't manage your stubborn little brother who won't do what anyone says? You could call him *intractable*, or you could call your mother. Problems are *intractable* when they can't be solved. *Intractable* means not *tractable*. Helpful, right? No? Let's break it down. In both words you see the word *tract*. A *contract* is a written document that explains how a legal situation is to be managed together. When someone is *tractable* they are able to be managed or handled. When they are *intractable*, they are as unmanageable as a hungry two-year old.

Answer 60

intransigence the trait of being intransigent; stubbornly refusing to compromise - **[n]** If you refuse to compromise with your sister about whose turn it is to do the dishes, your mother might accuse you both of *intransigence*. *Intransigence* is a stubborn refusal to change your views. Inside of *intransigence* you see the Latin *transigere* which means to come to an understanding. People who show intransigence refuse to do this. Nations are often accused of intransigence when they refuse to comply with international standards or will.

Answer 61

introspective given to examining own sensory and perceptual experiences - **[adj]** Someone who is *introspective* spends considerable time examining his own thoughts and feelings. If you take to your diary after an unhappy break-up, you are being *introspective*. The Latin word *introspicere* means to look inside, and that's what an introspective person does, metaphorically speaking. It's different from *meditative* and *pensive* in that they can refer to contemplating anything, whereas *introspection* involves specifically contemplating yourself.

Answer 62

inundate fill or cover completely, usually with water - **[v]** fill quickly beyond capacity; as with a liquid - **[v]** the basement was **inundated** after the storm To *inundate* means to quickly fill up or overwhelm, just like a flood. Your bathroom could be *inundated* with water if the pipes burst, and hopefully your inbox is *inundated* with nice emails on your birthday. Commonly used to refer to a deluge of water, *inundate* can also refer to an overflow of something less tangible, like information. Right before the holidays, toy stores are often inundated with eager parents scrambling to get the latest action figures and video games. Attempt to read the entire dictionary in one sitting and you'll inundate your mind with vocabulary. But you probably won't remember any of it tomorrow.

Answer 63

inured made tough by habitual exposure - **[adj]** a peasant, dark, lean-faced, wind-**inured**"- Robert Lynd" ""our successors...may be graver, more **inured** and equable men"- V.S.Pritchett" If you have gotten so many mosquito bites in your life that they no longer bother you, you have become *inured* to them. This means you have become accustomed to tolerating them. This adjective is derived from the 16th-century phrase *in ure,* meaning "in use" or "in practice." When you are inured to something, you have probably had a lot of persistent exposure to it, and it’s usually something negative. People can become inured to pain, inured to violence, and even inured to the sound of a little yappy dog that won’t stop barking.

Answer 64

invective abusive or venomous language used to express blame or censure or bitter deep-seated ill will - **[n]** * Invective* is harsh, abusive language, like, "you dirty rotten scoundrel." I'm sure you can think of harsher and more obscene examples, but we won't get into them here. * Invective* comes from the Latin for "abusive." It kind of sounds like a harsh word, actually, with those sharp, dagger-like V's. People usually put a colorful verb or phrase before it. Some examples: "She spewed *invective*," "She hurled *invective*," "She burst forth into *invective*." You can follow it with a phrase like, "picking up her plate and throwing it across the room."

Answer 65

inveigh complain bitterly - **[v]** speak against in an impassioned manner - **[v]** Picture an old man banging his fist on the dinner table, *inveighing* against the evils of teenagers' being allowed to listen to music and dance. *Inveigh* means to rail against something with hostility and passion. Related to *vehicle*, *inveigh* comes from Latin *in-* + *vehere* "to carry." During the Vietnam War, war protesters held rallies where young men burned their draft cards and inveighed against the imperialist motives by which our country was being driven and the war's escalation without its ever being properly authorized in Congress.

Answer 66

inveigle influence or urge by gentle urging, caressing, or flattering - **[v]** When you tell your boyfriend he’s not just the best boyfriend ever but also the world's best driver, and this makes him offer to drive the whole way on your upcoming road trip, then congratulations. You know how to *inveigle*, or use charm to coax someone into doing something. If you successfully *inveigle* your sister to doing something for you, she must be so caught up in your flattering that she is blind to your true intention. In fact, *inveigle* comes from the Middle French word *aveugler*, meaning "delude, make blind," which can be traced back to the Medieval Latin word *ab oculis*, or "lacking eyes." The people you inveigle don't see what you are really up to.

Answer 67

inveterate habitual - **[adj]** in a habitual and longstanding manner - **[adv]** If you're an *inveterate* doodler, all your notebooks are covered with drawings. If you're an *inveterate* golf player, you probably get twitchy if you haven't been out on a course in a week. In Middle English *inveterate* was associated with chronic disease. Now it simply refers to something that is a signature habit with a person. Unless you're an *inveterate* gambler, drinker or smoker––in which case you're addicted and we're back to talking about being sick.

Answer 68

invidious containing or implying a slight or showing prejudice - **[adj]** **invidious** comparisons Something can be described as *invidious* when it is resentful, discriminatory or envious, as in: "Fred was angered by the *invidious* gossip about his divorce being spread by his ex-wife's allies." The adjective *invidious* is used to describe an act, thought, opinion or critique that is full of ill will or prejudice. It comes from a Latin word that means "hostile." When the captain of a cheerleading squad says nasty things about an opposing cheer captain's new party dress, those are *invidious* comments.

Answer 69

irascible quickly aroused to anger - **[adj]** characterized by anger - **[adj]** an **irascible** response If you're *irascible*, you get angry easily — perhaps blowing up in rage when someone brushes into you. *Irascible* comes from the Latin root *ira*, which means "anger" or "rage," the same root that gives us the word *ire*, "anger." The *-sc* in the middle of *irascible*, means "becoming," so *irascible* doesn't just mean you're angry — it's got action built into it. If you're looking for a fight most of the time, then you're irascible — ready for the spark that's going to set you on fire.

Answer 70

irresolute uncertain how to act or proceed - **[adj]** the committee was timid and mediocre and **irresolute** * Irresolute* describes someone who feels stuck. A decision must be made, a plan acted on, but the *irresolute* person just doesn't know what to do. * Resolute* describes certainty. When someone is resolute, things get done: plans are made and carried out. But add the prefix *ir* to *resolute* and you get its opposite. An irresolute person isn't necessarily a slacker — he or she just doesn't know what to do. Maybe it's confusion. Maybe it's a matter of waiting for better information to come along. Either way, if someone is irresolute, you'll need to be patient — or willing to nudge him or her into action.

Answer 71

itinerant traveling from place to place to work - **[adj]** a laborer who moves from place to place as demanded by employment - **[n]** **itinerant** labor "an **itinerant** judge" "**itinerant** traders" An *itinerant* is a person who moves from place to place, typically for work, like the *itinerant* preacher who moves to a new community every few years. *Itinerant* is pronounced "eye-TIN-er-ant." It might remind you of *itinerary*, the traveler's schedule that lists flights, hotel check-in times, and other plans. It's no surprise that both words come from the Latin word *itinerare*, meaning "to travel." *Itinerant* was first used in the 16th century to describe circuit judges who traveled to faraway courtrooms. Today, almost anyone can be an itinerant.

Answer 72

kudos an expression of approval and commendation - **[n]** If you're really good at judo, you will get *kudos*, or praise and congratulations, for your speed and strength. You get *kudos* for doing something well, whether a class presentation, a chore, or a performance in a game or recital. Getting kudos for doing something that makes you famous or well-known is possible too, though it's easier to get kudos just for doing a good job. *Kudos* looks like a plural noun, but the *s* is just the ending of the original Greek word.

Answer 73

labile liable to change - **[adj]** (chemistry, physics, biology) readily undergoing change or breakdown - **[adj]** an emotionally **labile** person *Labile* is an adjective used to describe something that is easily or frequently changed. Radioactive elements, such as uranium or plutonium, are *labile*. It is this *lability* that makes them unstable and dangerous. From the Latin verb *lābī*, "to slide or slip," *labile* is often found in a technical context, especially in science, to refer to some sort of instability. For example, in chemistry, a compound that can be easily broken down by heat is called *labile*. The term can also be used in psychology to describe someone who is emotionally unstable.

Answer 74

laconic brief and to the point; effectively cut short - **[adj]** the **laconic** reply *Laconic* is an adjective that describes a style of speaking or writing that uses only a few words, often to express complex thoughts and ideas. A more *laconic* way to write that last sentence might be this: *laconic* means brief. There’s a friend of yours who doesn’t talk very much, and when he does, he says maybe three words and then becomes quiet again. You could describe that friend as laconic. The word comes from Laconia, a region in ancient Greece where the local Spartan rulers gave very short speeches. Being laconic can be bad when it sounds rude to be so brief, but it can be good if you’re in a rush to get somewhere.

Answer 75

lambaste censure severely or angrily - **[v]** beat with a cane - **[v]** To *lambaste* is to reprimand or berate someone severely. People *lambaste* those who have angered or disappointed them. Have you ever watched a basketball game and noticed a coach yelling like a maniac at a referee? That coach is lambasting the referee. Lambasting is also called chewing out, taking to task, scolding, reprimanding, berating, bawling out, and chiding. Parents lambaste disobedient kids. A boss might lambaste a worker who is late all the time. Lambasting is severe and goes way beyond criticizing. When you are lambasting, you are furious at someone and letting them know it.

Answer 76

lascivious driven by lust; preoccupied with or exhibiting lustful desires - **[adj]** Use *lascivious* to describe a person's behavior that is driven by thoughts of sex. If someone gives you a *lascivious* smile, they've got only one thing in mind. Latin-based *lascivious* and the Old English word *lust* both share the same Indo-European root *las-* "to be eager, wanton." The much older word *lust* originally meant "desire, pleasure" and over time developed to mean sexual desire. *Lascivious*, on the other hand, entered the English language in the early 15th century complete with the meaning "lewd, driven by sexual desire."

Answer 77

lassitude a feeling of lack of interest or energy - **[n]** weakness characterized by a lack of vitality or energy - **[n]** a state of comatose torpor (as found in sleeping sickness) - **[n]** If you are feeling *lassitude*, you're weary and just can't be bothered. Couch potatoes make *lassitude* into an art form. *Lassitude* might sound like *latitude,* but the two words don't mean the same thing. *Latitude* describes the distance of a particular location from the equator. *Lassitude* is the weariness you'd experience after attempting to run a marathon around the equator. *Lassitude* can also describe a lack of interest, like deciding you'd rather lie on your couch rather than run that marathon along the equator.

Answer 78

latent potentially existing but not presently evident or realized - **[adj]** (pathology) not presently active - **[adj]** a **latent** fingerprint "**latent** talent" "**latent** infection" *Latent* is an adjective that you use to describe something that is capable of becoming active or at hand, though it is not currently so. The adjective *latent* is a tricky word to define because it refers to something there but not there. That is, *latent* means something that is capable of becoming active or at hand but has not yet achieved that state. The word arrived in Middle English from the Latin word *latēre* which means "to lie hidden." It can have somewhat negative connotations because it is often used in a medical context, as in a *latent* illness or infection, but it can also mean good things, such as someone discovering they have *latent* talents or capabilities.

Answer 79

laud praise, glorify, or honor - **[v]** To *laud* someone doesn't mean to give them knighthood, but to praise them extravagantly — usually in a very public manner. Being *lauded,* of course, can have the same tonic effect as having been made a lord. Fun fact: the word *laud* is related to the drug *laudanum,* a potent combo of alcohol and opium first invented in the sixteenth century. Its creator, the alchemist Parcelsus, clearly knowing the effect it had on people, took its name from the Latin word *laudere,* meaning "to praise." Not surprisingly, it remained one of the world's most lauded drugs until its use became strictly controlled in the early twentieth century.

Answer 80

lethargic deficient in alertness or activity - **[adj]** bullfrogs became **lethargic** with the first cold nights When you feel *lethargic*, you're sluggish or lacking energy. Being sleepy or hungry can make anyone *lethargic*. Being lethargic makes it hard to get anything done: you feel weak and sleepy. Whatever the reason, a lethargic person needs to snap out of it and get some energy, maybe by eating something or by taking a nap. Being lethargic also goes well with watching TV, since that takes almost no energy at all. When you feel lethargic, you don't have any energy to spare.

Answer 81

levee a pier that provides a landing place on a river - **[n]** a formal reception of visitors or guests (as at a royal court) - **[n]** A *levee* is an embankment, like a dam, constructed to prevent the overflow of a body of water. It can also mean a formal reception. How do these two words relate? Read on... In French, *lever* means to lift and *se lever* means to rise, literally "lift yourself." When the king rose from his bed and received visitors, that was a levee. When you raise up dirt or other materials to build a dam or levee, that's also a levee. Now, official levees don't involve kings––but you might hear of "a governor’s *levee* at the state capital." And *levee* can be used as a verb, meaning to make an embankment, or shore up.

Answer 82

levity a manner lacking seriousness - **[n]** feeling an inappropriate lack of seriousness - **[n]** Joking that your dead grandmother "never looked better" could inject some *levity*, or frivolity, into her funeral, but your relatives might find your joke inappropriate to the occasion. *Levity* literally means "lightness," and it's often an attempt to inject some lightness or humor into an otherwise somber situation. Telling your Aunt Edna a joke while she recuperates from a skiing accident could provide the levity needed to brighten her mood. Yet *levity* is often used to describe humor that's not appropriate to the occasion, like telling your Aunt the joke, "Two corpses walk into a bar..." after her husband has just died.

Answer 83

libertine unrestrained by convention or morality - **[adj]** a dissolute person; usually a man who is morally unrestrained - **[n]** If you drink a lot, eat a lot, and live a wild and unrestrained life, you might be called a *libertine*. A *libertine* is someone who lives life unencumbered by morals. Although it can be use neutrally, often if someone calls you libertine, they disapprove of your lack of morality. The city of New Orleans, where the drinking age is 18 and prostitution is legal, might be called a libertine city. While not all of the people who live there are libertines, they tend to have libertine attitudes and views, and do not mind when tourists spend their money on libertine activity.

Answer 84

libido (psychoanalysis) a Freudian term for sexual urge or desire - **[n]** * Libido* is a person's sexual desire. Once a year? Once a week? Once a day? There is no correct answer, because everyone's *libido* is different. However, you hope your partner's is similar to yours! * Libido* has only been a word for about 100 years, though the urge to have sex has been around, well, as long as we have. It is Latin for "desire, lust." You may have heard that the libido changes over the course of a person's life, and that you can even "lose" it if you are, for example, depressed or taking certain medications. People often think famous psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud coined the term. It isn't true, though he did popularize it in his writings on sexual urges.

Answer 85

lilliputian very small - **[adj]** (informal) small and of little importance - **[adj]** a very small person (resembling a Lilliputian) - **[n]** a **lilliputian** chest of drawers "our worries are **lilliputian** compared with those of countries that are at war" Something that's *lilliputian* is extremely small, like the *lilliputian* tables and chairs that might surprise you when you visit your kindergarten classroom years later. The word *lilliputian* comes from Jonathan Swift's 1726 novel, *Gulliver's Travels*. Lilliput is the name of a fictional island whose people, the Lilliputians, stand only about six inches high. In addition to acting as an adjective to describe something that is very small — like the lilliputian cups and plates in a child's doll house — *lilliputian* can also be a noun that refers to extremely small people.

Answer 86

limn make a portrait of - **[v]** trace the shape of - **[v]** *Limn* is a verb that means to represent or portray. It is most often used to describe the act of drawing or painting a portrait, but it can also refer to describing or outlining a scene or event. The verb *limn* evolved from the Latin *lumināre*, "to illuminate." The word referred originally to coloring (illuminating) manuscripts. The sense of "portray" or "depict" did not come into use until the late 16th century, but that meaning is close to the original, since someone who paints a portrait usually illuminates something about the subject's character. The word is less often used of written description, as in "Her reviews tended to *limn* the worst aspects of the performance, ignoring the best."

Answer 87

limpid clear and bright - **[adj]** transmitting light; able to be seen through with clarity - **[adj]** (of language) transparently clear; easily understandable - **[adj]** **limpid** blue eyes "could see the sand on the bottom of the **limpid** pool" "writes in a **limpid** style" The adjective *limpid* describes something (often liquid) that is clear, serene and bright. Nature calendars often feature glamour shots of a *limpid* stream or a *limpid* lake. The adjective *limpid* may also describe language that is easily understandable. Your teacher might ask you to give an answer in a single limpid sentence. But he probably won't because *limpid* is a word that's fallen out of use. Maybe because it sounds too much like *limp*. Or maybe because it's associated with the king of all clichés: "Her eyes were like *limpid* pools."

Answer 88

linguistic consisting of or related to language - **[adj]** of or relating to the scientific study of language - **[adj]** **linguistic** behavior "a **linguistic** atlas" "**linguistic** theory" Use the adjective *linguistic* to describe anything related to language, like the *linguistic* difficulties you might have if you visit a place where you do not speak the same language as everyone else. The word *linguistic* combines the noun *linguist*, meaning "a master of language, one who uses his tongue freely," with the adjective suffix *-ic*. It describes something that’s related to language, such as a linguistic theory about why some people drop the *g* sound in saying words ending in *-ing*. Or, if you want to brag about how good your vocabulary is, then rave about your *linguistic* skills.

Answer 89

litany any long and tedious address or recital - **[n]** the patient recited a **litany** of complaints "a **litany** of failures" If you've got a whole slew of complaints to get off your chest or requests to make, you've got yourself a *litany* — a long, drawn-out list. From Greek origins meaning "entreaty" or "supplication," *litany* often refers to certain long responsive petitions offered to God, particularly by practitioners of the Christian faith. For some reason, *litany* is usually used in reference to negative things — such as a litany of complaints or a litany of injuries.

Answer 90

litigation a legal proceeding in a court; a judicial contest to determine and enforce legal rights - **[n]** *Litigation* is what goes on in court; it is the name for the process of suing someone or trying them for a crime. When families fight over their inheritance, the assets they want may end up being tied up for decades in *litigation*. If you paid a man to repair your roof and he never finished the job, and he ignores your calls, the best option is to bring litigation against him: take him to court! We can use *litigation* to talk about one court case, or about cases in general. When the Congress debates health care, they try to find ways to reduce for medical malpractice litigation, which is one of the most expensive aspects of medicine.

Answer 91

log a segment of the trunk of a tree when stripped of branches - **[n]** measuring instrument that consists of a float that trails from a ship by a knotted line in order to measure the ship's speed through the water - **[n]** a written record of messages sent or received - **[n]** the exponent required to produce a given number - **[n]** they kept a **log** of all transmission by the radio station "an email **log**" A *log* is the trunk of a tree minus the branches: *logging* is cutting down trees. A *log* is also a written record of something, and *logging* is keeping such a record. The first type of log is a tree that's been cut down with the branches stripped. Think of a log cabin: it's made up of logs. Logging is when trees are cut down for lumber. The other type of log is some type of written record or list of messages. A ship captain keeps a log of notes on the ship's status and progress. When you make such a record, you're logging. Logging can be written or orally recorded.

Answer 92

loquacious full of trivial conversation - **[adj]** A *loquacious* person talks a lot, often about stuff that only they think is interesting. You can also call them chatty or gabby, but either way, they're *loquacious*. Whenever you see the Latin *loqu-*, you can be sure that the word has something to do with "talking." So a loquacious person is a person who talks a lot, and often too much. Sitting next to a loquacious person at a dinner party can make dinner a real drag. Of course, if you've got nothing to say, a loquacious person might make a good dinner companion, because they'll do all the talking. All you will have to do is smile and eat.

Answer 93

lucid (of language) transparently clear; easily understandable - **[adj]** transmitting light; able to be seen through with clarity - **[adj]** **lucid** directions "a **lucid** moment in his madness" "a **lucid** thinker" Something that's *lucid* is clear and understandable. *Lucid* writing is important in journalism, so that readers easily get the point of the article they're reading. When what you write or say is lucid, it's straightforward and its meaning is crystal clear. You can also use the adjective *lucid* to describe your mind or thoughts when you're thinking in a rational, sensible way: "I was worried about my grandmother's confusion yesterday, but she seems really *lucid* today." Another meaning is "translucent," or letting light shine through — which makes sense since *lucid* comes from the Latin *lucidus*, "light or clear," with its root of *lux*, "light."

Answer 94

lucre informal terms for money - **[n]** the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time (including depreciation and other non-cash expenses) - **[n]** *Lucre* is another word for money, or profit. It's most often used to describe money gotten illegally, or immorally. Well-heeled bankers and lawyers make profits; drug dealers and bank robbers get filthy, rotten lucre. You might think of *lucre* as the term that gets at the dark side of capitalism. Some people will do anything in the pursuit of lucre. Political groups that call Hollywood immoral, still accept the lucre that it offers. We all love money, except when it causes us to do terrible things to ourselves and others. Then it's lucre.

Answer 95

luminous softly bright or radiant - **[adj]** a sky **luminous** with stars *Luminous* means full of or giving off light. During the winter holidays, with all their emphasis on light, you can see *luminous* displays of candles everywhere. This word has several figurative meanings that are related to the basic sense of something shining. For example, *luminous* prose is clear and easily understood. And a *luminous* career is bright and inspiring. The Middle English adjective is from Latin *luminosus,* from *lumen* "light."

Answer 96

lustrous reflecting light - **[adj]** made smooth and bright by or as if by rubbing; reflecting a sheen or glow - **[adj]** brilliant - **[adj]** **lustrous** auburn hair "she brushed her hair until it fell in **lustrous** auburn waves" "set a **lustrous** example for others to follow" In shampoo commercials, the hair you see swinging is *lustrous*. It is brilliant, in the shiny sense. *Lustrous* has its root in the Latin *lustrare* which means "to illuminate or shine light over." When something is lustrous, it reflects light in a glossy and shiny way. A bright smile and a glowing reputation are both lustrous. If someone has a long and successful work history, you might say their career is illustrious, meaning it has been lustrous for a long time.

Answer 97

machiavellian of or relating to Machiavelli or the principles of conduct he recommended - **[adj]** a follower of Machiavelli's principles - **[n]** **Machiavellian** thinking Especially when it's capitalized, the word *Machiavellian* is useful for talking about a person who follows Machiavelli's philosophical ideas. However, it's more frequently used to describe someone who is sneaky, cunning, and lacking a moral code. You can use the adjective *Machiavellian* to describe someone who is a fan of the Italian philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli. Modern psychiatrists even use the adjective to describe a specific kind of personality disorder, a cold selfishness. When Machiavelli's first works were published in the 1600s, they were seen by some to be dangerous and amoral, and the word *Machiavellian* was coined.

Answer 98

machinations a crafty and involved plot to achieve your (usually sinister) ends - **[n]** When a James Bond villain comes up with a plan to destroy the world, he doesn’t use a simple plan. No, he uses a *machination* — a complex plot that relies on numerous elements coming together to work. Not surprisingly, *machination* derives from the Medieval French *machina*, meaning "machine." And, like many a machine, a machination is subject to going wrong, often comically (see James Bond movies). Politicians love a good machination, and their machinations are frequently exposed in the press as scandals.

Answer 99

maelstrom a powerful circular current of water (usually the result of conflicting tides) - **[n]** A *maelstrom* is a powerful whirlpool. A luckless ship might go down in one, conflicting ocean currents might cause one. You hear it more often metaphorically, to describe disasters where many competing forces are at play. When an economy or a government fails, the situation is often described as a *maelstrom*. Following some precipitous event, all the forces at play––banks, governments, consumers––are trying as hard as they can to protect themselves. This creates a maelstrom — a perfect storm, so to speak — that drags any potential for rescue down with it. *Maelstrom* comes from an obsolete Dutch phrase meaning "whirling stream."

Answer 100

magnanimity liberality in bestowing gifts; extremely liberal and generous of spirit - **[n]** Magnanimous behavior is noble, generous, or unselfish, and to exhibit *magnanimity* is to be this way. He showed great *magnanimity* in not pressing charges when I drove his car into the pond. "Accidents happen my friend," he said, and patted me on the back. In Latin, *magnus* means "great": a magnate is a great man; a magnum is a great big bottle of champagne. *Magnanimity* is the generous greatness of spirit. When you are being the bigger person, you are behaving with *magnanimity*. "The supermodel grabbed the magnum of champagne, lifted it to her mouth and drained the bottle. With great *magnanimity*, her host smiled and offered her another."

Answer 101

malign speak unfavorably about - **[v]** evil or harmful in nature or influence - **[adj]** having or exerting a malignant influence - **[adj]** prompted by **malign** motives "believed in witches and **malign** spirits" "gave him a **malign** look" If you *malign* someone, you badmouth them — just like the jilted girlfriend who tells the whole school her ex has bad breath and head lice. It's no surprise that *malign* comes from a Middle English word that means "to attack." Because when you malign someone you're attacking their character or reputation with a lot of trash talk. That would actually make it appropriate to then describe you as "a *malign* influence" — in other words, evil and full of malignant purpose.

Answer 102

malleable capable of being shaped or bent or drawn out - **[adj]** easily influenced - **[adj]** **malleable** metals such as gold A *malleable* personality is capable of being changed or trained, and a *malleable* metal is able to be pounded or pressed into various shapes. It's easier to learn when you're young and *malleable*. Similarly, there are *ductile* metals that can be hammered out into wire or thread; gold, silver, and platinum are examples. The adjective *malleable* dates back to Middle English, from Old French, from Medieval Latin *malleābilis*, from *malleāre* "to hammer," from Latin *malleus* "a hammer."

Answer 103

maverick someone who exhibits great independence in thought and action - **[n]** an unbranded range animal (especially a stray calf); belongs to the first person who puts a brand on it - **[n]** independent in behavior or thought - **[adj]** **maverick** politicians A *maverick* is a rebel, someone who shows a lot of independence. A *maverick* on a motorcycle might blaze his own trail, or show a *maverick* touch in a rough sport by wearing a helmet with the word "Mom" inside a heart. Samuel A. Maverick owned a lot of cattle, and he let them roam around Texas without a brand, or identification mark, seared into their skins. Samuel was a maverick for going against the common practice of tracking his animals, and his last name became part of the English language as both an adjective and a noun in the 19th century. Someone who acts very independently is a maverick, and individual actions that stand out are maverick, as in "her *maverick* jumping style on the ice was both wild and delicate."

Answer 104

megalomania a psychological state characterized by delusions of grandeur - **[n]** * Megalomania* is a crazy hunger for power and wealth, and a passion for grand schemes. Comic book villains often suffer from *megalomania*. Their plans are thwarted only by superheroes. * Megalomania* comes from the Greek *megas* ("great") and *mania* ("madness"). It is a madness of greatness, but not a great kind of madness! *Megalomaniacs* in history: Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Napoleon Bonaparte, Josef Stalin, and maybe even the tycoon Donald Trump.

Answer 105

menagerie a collection of live animals for study or display - **[n]** the facility where wild animals are housed for exhibition - **[n]** A *menagerie* (pronounced muh-NA-juh-ree, with NA as in "national") is a collection of live animals that people visit, study, or keep as pets. If you really want a backyard *menagerie* of farm animals after visiting the petting zoo, take a long sniff and remember what comes with them. Pet lovers can have a menagerie of cats, dogs, and birds or exotic animals such as snakes, ferrets, and piranhas. Zoos have animal collections like the menagerie of sea creatures in the aquarium and the swinging apes in the jungle menagerie. And a science or medical center may have a menagerie of rats for studying behavior. If you want a menagerie, an ant farm is a good one: lots of animals in a container, always working, and never stinking up the place.

Answer 106

mendacious given to lying - **[adj]** intentionally untrue - **[adj]** a **mendacious** child "a **mendacious** statement" A *mendacious* person is one who tells lies habitually and intentionally. Don't get stuck at the water cooler or bus stop next to someone you consider *mendacious*! People may tell "white lies" if they forgot your birthday or really don't like your new haircut, but if you catch someone intentionally manipulating you with a falsehood, that person is just plain *mendacious*. So think of the most deceptive, insincere, perfidious, duplicitous, false person you've ever met, and then add the word *mendacious* to that list.

Answer 107

mendicant practicing beggary - **[adj]** a pauper who lives by begging - **[n]** a male member of a religious order that originally relied solely on alms - **[n]** **mendicant** friars People who live off begging can be called *mendicants*. However, you probably wouldn't call your kids *mendicants*, even though they beg you for stuff, because the word *mendicant* also implies extreme poverty. The noun *mendicant* can also refer to a man belonging to a religious order, such as the Franciscan Friars — who do not own personal property but live together in a monastery and survive off alms donated by others. As an adjective, *mendicant* describes someone who lives such an existence.

Answer 108

meretricious tastelessly showy - **[adj]** based on pretense; deceptively pleasing - **[adj]** like or relating to a prostitute - **[adj]** a **meretricious** yet stylish book "**meretricious** praise" "a **meretricious** argument" Have you ever heard the phrase "fake it until you make it"? That is advice that encourages you to be *meretricious*, pretending to be something you aren't, like the *meretricious* flaunting of gigantic fake diamond earrings, pretending they are real — and that you can afford them. To correctly pronounce *meretricious*, accent the third syllable: "mer-uh-TRISH-us." Don't mistake something that is meretricious for having merit. In fact, it is just the opposite. From an expensive restaurant that looks expensively furnished but when the lights are turned up, you can see that "leather" chairs are just cheap vinyl or a woman who pretends her counterfeit handbags are designer originals, meretricious actions are meant to deceive.

Answer 109

mesmerize attract strongly, as if with a magnet - **[v]** induce hypnosis in - **[v]** You meet someone and you can’t take your eyes off them, like you are connected by an invisible cord and can’t break free. Those kinds of people have the power to *mesmerize*, holding your attention like you’re under hypnosis. The word *mesmerize* comes from the last name of 18th century German physician Franz Mesmer, who believed that all people and objects are pulled together by a strong magnetic force, later called *mesmerism*. If you ever start to feel mesmerized, maybe it’s because you find someone fascinating, or maybe you’ve been hypnotized by a magician. Hard to tell from here.

Answer 110

metamorphosis a striking change in appearance or character or circumstances - **[n]** a complete change of physical form or substance especially as by magic or witchcraft - **[n]** the marked and rapid transformation of a larva into an adult that occurs in some animals - **[n]** the **metamorphosis** of the old house into something new and exciting In Kafka's novel entitled *Metamorphosis*, a man wakes up to find he has turned into a cockroach. That kind of complete and startling change pretty much sums up the word. When a caterpillar becomes a butterfly, it goes through a metamorphosis. An idea can undergo metamorphosis, or metamorphosize, too as can feelings. After you spend a full summer with your grandmother, your feelings about the woman may undergo a complete metamorphosis. While you were once afraid of the old woman, you now love her dearly.

Answer 111

meticulous marked by precise accordance with details - **[adj]** marked by extreme care in treatment of details - **[adj]** **meticulous** research "a **meticulous** craftsman" "almost worryingly **meticulous** in his business formalities" People who are *meticulous* can be pretty annoying, what with their extreme attention to detail. But if that person is, say, your surgeon or your accountant, you'll want them to be *meticulous*. The Latin root of *meticulous* is *metus*, which means "fear," so it's easy to see how eventually *meticulous* got its meaning. Someone who's *meticulous* is afraid of what will happen if they're not careful enough to get every detail right. "Detail oriented" and "perfectionist" are other ways of describing someone who cares deeply about the small things and about getting things exactly right, every time. Concert pianists must be meticulous, because audiences are always listening for wrong notes.

Answer 112

mettle the courage to carry on - **[n]** *Mettle* is the courage to carry on. If someone wants to "test your *mettle*," they want to see if you have the heart to follow through when the going gets tough. Having the *mettle* to do something means you have guts. In short, you're a pretty impressive person. If you have the intellectual *mettle* to enter a political debate, not only do you know a lot about politics, but you have the spunk to show it off. *Metal* and *mettle* were used interchangeably meaning a solid material like gold, and the "stuff a person is made of" until everyone got confused and the words went their separate ways.

Answer 113

microcosm a miniature model of something - **[n]** When you think of *microcosm*, picture your home town inside a snow globe. The teeny tiny city is a *microcosm* of the one you live in. It is that place in miniature. *Microcosm* can be used to describe anything that is a miniature representation of something else. Think of a specific event that symbolizes the way things always seems to go, like the way a kind act by your mom can represent the caring relationship you have with her. That weekend with your partner that started with laughter but ended in tears? That's a microcosm of the whole lousy relationship. The dance where you regretted your outfit, giggled with friends, annoyed a teacher, and missed your chance at dancing with your crush? A microcosm of high school.

Answer 114

militate have force or influence; bring about an effect or change - **[v]** Politeness militat**ed agains**t this opinion being expressed Your father's loss of his job may *militate* against the big family vacation your parents had been planning. To *militate* is to be a deciding factor for or against. The word *militate* descends from the same Latin word as *military*. Imagine armed soldiers at a check point. Their presence might militate against your plan of crossing the border, or it might militate for their bringing you in for questioning. When you are young, sometimes your age works for you, and sometimes it militates against you.

Answer 115

minatory threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments - **[adj]** * Minatory* means threatening. When you petition the school for higher academic standards––i.e. harder grading from teachers––you may receive some *minatory* looks, or even hate note, from the kids in your school. * Minatory* derives from the Latin *menatorius*, "menace," and has nothing at all to do with the Greek legends of the Minotaur. But think of the Minotaur anyway––it was half-man, half-bull, lived inside a labyrinth, and could only be appeased if it was being sent young women to devour. If that's not threatening, or minatory, behavior, nothing is.

Answer 116

minuscule very small - **[adj]** the characters that were once kept in bottom half of a compositor's type case - **[n]** a **minuscule** kitchen "a **minuscule** amount of rain fell" "e.e.cummings's poetry is written all in **minuscule** letters" When something is teeny tiny, it is *minuscule*. If your mother calls your miniskirt *minuscule*, it probably means she wants you to change into something a bit less revealing. In *minuscule*, you see the word, minus, which means lesser. The word *minuscule* has its roots in the Latin expression *minuscula littera*, a phrase used to describe the smaller letters in text. In the late 1800s, the use of the word expanded to mean very small in general — so the definition of *minuscule* became less minuscule.

Answer 117

misanthrope someone who dislikes people in general - **[n]** A *misanthrope* is a person who hates or mistrusts other people. Your great aunt Edna who lashes out at anyone who approaches, convinced they'll steal the jewelry she keeps in her handbag on her lap? A *misanthrope* indeed. This is a formal word, derived from Greek *misanthrōpos* "hating mankind," from *misein* "to hate" plus *anthrōpos* "a man." From the same root, we get the English word *anthropology* "the study of humans." If you make a statement or do something that is particularly hostile or untrusting, you can call that *misanthropic*.

Answer 118

miscellany a collection containing a variety of sorts of things - **[n]** an anthology of short literary pieces and poems and ballads etc. - **[n]** * Miscellany* is a collection of different sorts of things. If organization is not one of your strong points, your purse may contain a *miscellany* of surprising items. * Miscellany* comes from the Latin for "mix," and a *miscellany* is a mixture of things. If you don't clean your car out very often, there may be a miscellany of relics in the backseat: a flip flop left over from your last trip to the beach, a few stale French fries, your last report card, and maybe a magazine or two.

Answer 119

misogynist a misanthrope who dislikes women in particular - **[n]** If you're someone who believes women belong in the kitchen and shouldn't be accorded the same respect as men, you might be a *misogynist*. A *misogynist* is a person who hates or doesn't trust women. *Misogynist* is from Greek *misogynḗs,* from the prefix *miso-* "hatred" plus *gynḗ* "a woman." The English suffix *-ist* means "person who does something." The prefix *mis-*, a variant of *miso-* before a vowel, appears in the opposite term *misandrist,* which is a person who hates or doesn't trust men. The corresponding nouns are *mysogyny* and *misandry*.

Answer 120

mitigate lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent of - **[v]** make less severe or harsh - **[v]** **mitigating** circumstances Choose the verb, *mitigate,* when something lessens the unpleasantness of a situation. You can *mitigate* your parents' anger by telling them you were late to dinner because you were helping your elderly neighbor. The somewhat formal verb, *mitigate,* comes from the Latin roots *mītis* "soft" and *agere* "to do/act," which add up to "to soften." It is often used with words that indicate an outcome or something harmful. When you buy car insurance, you are trying to mitigate the risks involved with driving. Sunscreen is used to mitigate the effects of the sun on your skin.

Answer 121

mnemonic ``` of or relating to or involved the practice of aiding the memory - **[adj]** a device (such as a rhyme or acronym) used to aid recall - **[n]** ``` **mnemonic** device A *mnemonic* is a memory aid for something, often taking the form of a rhyme or an acronym. *I* before *E* except after *C*, is a *mnemonic* to help you remember how to spell words like "piece" and "receive." As an adjective, *mnemonic* describes something related to memory. "Spring forward, Fall back" is a mnemonic device to help you remember which way to set your clocks for daylight savings time. Set the clock forward an hour in the spring when daylight savings time begins, and set the clock back an hour in the fall when it ends. Well-known mnemonics exist to help you remember things like the planets, the digits of Pi, and the color spectrum.

Answer 122

modicum a small or moderate or token amount - **[n]** England still expects a **modicum** of eccentricity in its artists"- Ian Jack" If you want to describe a small amount of something, try *modicum.* If you have a *modicum* of interest in something, you are a little bit interested. *Modicum* comes from the Latin *modicus,* for moderate, and *modus,* for measure. We often use it to mean "any at all," as if "If you had a *modicum* of sense (i.e. any sense at all), you'd be able to see that the pencil you've spent the last five minutes looking for is tucked behind your ear."

Answer 123

mollify cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will of - **[v]** make more temperate, acceptable, or suitable by adding something else; moderate - **[v]** make less rigid or softer - **[v]** She managed to **mollify** the angry customer To *mollify* is to calm someone down, talk them off the ledge, make amends, maybe even apologize. *Mollify* comes from the Latin *mollificare* to "make soft," and that's still at the heart the word. When you *mollify* someone, you smooth things over, even if you're maybe still a little mad: "I was angry that the guy took my seat, but I was *mollified* when he offered me one closer to the band." Unlike the sharp sounds of *antagonize*, there are only soft sounds in this word that means to make someone feel soft and cuddly. Although dryer sheets might soften your clothes, they don't *mollify* them (unless your clothes were really mad at you before).

Answer 124

monolithic imposing in size or bulk or solidity - **[adj]** characterized by massiveness and rigidity and total uniformity - **[adj]** the **monolithic** proportions of Stalinist architecture "a **monolithic** society" "a **monolithic** worldwide movement" When something is *monolithic* it's big, and made of one thing. A large piece of stone jutting from the earth is a *monolith*, and Detroit's economy when it depended entirely on the auto industry was *monolithic*. Broken into its roots *mono* and *lithic*, *monolithic* means simply "one stone." When *monolithic* is used to describe something societal — like a religion or an organization — it has a slightly negative connotation. This is because anything made up of different people with different beliefs and goals is unlikely to be able to maintain *monolithic* status for long without force or oppression.

Answer 125

morose showing a brooding ill humor - **[adj]** a **morose** and unsociable manner A *morose* person is sullen, gloomy, sad, glum, and depressed — not a happy camper. When someone is morose, they seem to have a cloud of sadness hanging over them. This word is stronger than just *sad* — *morose* implies being extremely gloomy and depressed. We all can be morose at times, like after the death of a friend or family member. Whether you're morose due to an event or just because you're feeling blue, you should try skipping or whistling a little tune to perk things up.

Answer 126

motley consisting of a haphazard assortment of different kinds - **[adj]** having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly - **[adj]** a collection containing a variety of sorts of things - **[n]** a multicolored woolen fabric woven of mixed threads in 14th to 17th century England - **[n]** a garment made of motley (especially a court jester's costume) - **[n]** a **motley** crew "a jester dressed in **motley**" If you've encountered the word *motley*, it's most likely in the phrase "motley crew," which means a diverse and poorly organized group. Think of a band of pirates, or the assorted characters who became The Fellowship of the Ring. In contemporary usage, *motley* can be used in virtually any context as a synonym for mismatched, heterogeneous, or ragtag. But the word was first used to describe multicolored fabric, especially the type of material used in a jester's costume. This distinctive apparel was a sign of the fool's place outside the class system — and, in the Elizabethan era, it signified that the jester was beyond the sumptuary laws that determined who could wear what. Thus, the fool had the exceptional ability to speak freely, even to royalty.

Answer 127

multifarious having many aspects - **[adj]** **multifarious** interests "the **multifarious** noise of a great city" A person or thing with many sides or different qualities is *multifarious*. The Internet has multifarious uses, museums are known for their multifarious art collections, and Hindu gods are associated with multifarious incarnations. You can use the adjective *multifarious* to describe anything that has a lot of sides or aspects, and the 16th-century roots of the word come from *multi-,* or "many," parts or expressions. Comic actors who can morph their faces into a 1000 different looks are multifarious, and parents who can run businesses, coach soccer leagues, and tell good stories are pretty multifarious too.

Answer 128

mundane found in the ordinary course of events - **[adj]** concerned with the world or worldly matters - **[adj]** belonging to this earth or world; not ideal or heavenly - **[adj]** **mundane** affairs "yet a **mundane** wonder of unimagined kind" An ordinary, unexciting thing can be called *mundane*: "Superman hid his heroic feats by posing as his *mundane* alter ego, Clark Kent." *Mundane*, from the Latin word *mundus*, "world," originally referred to things on earth. Such things were supposed to be uninteresting when compared to the delights of Heaven; hence the word's present meaning. Writing about reality TV shows, a *Newsweek* writer opined, "In reality bizarro-world, the *mundane* is presented as the spectacular" — in other words, people's everyday routines are now televised as entertainment.

Answer 129

necromancy conjuring up the dead, especially for prophesying - **[n]** the belief in magical spells that harness occult forces or evil spirits to produce unnatural effects in the world - **[n]** Spooky, sneaky, powerful and strange, *necromancy* is the art of raising the spirits of the dead, either for their predictions about the future, or their ghostly help in making something happen. *Necromancy*, also called black magic, comes from the ancient Greek word for corpse *necro* and prophecy *mancy*. If you travel to the underworld to speak to the dead, then you have the power of necromancy, not to mention *geomancy*, the ability to read signs from the earth to find the *necropolis*, or city of the dead. As you might guess, necromancy isn’t discussed much these days. But if you’re reading about old witch trials, you might find accusations of necromancy abound.

Answer 130

negate make ineffective by counterbalancing the effect of - **[v]** deny the truth of - **[v]** prove negative; show to be false - **[v]** be in contradiction with - **[v]** This action will **negate** the effect of my efforts If something neutralizes the effect of something else, then you can say the effect is *negated*. Hanging a disco ball from your living room ceiling *negates* the sleek modern effect created by the contemporary furniture. If something is proved false or untrue, it has been *negated*. The discovery of one dinosaur jaw negated the conventional wisdom that all dinosaurs were vegetarians, since the tooth structure proved that guy definitely ate meat. The verb *negate* can also mean to counteract or counterbalance — so a really strong serve can negate your other weaknesses on the tennis court.

Answer 131

neologism a newly invented word or phrase - **[n]** the act of inventing a word or phrase - **[n]** A *neologism* is a made-up or new word. *Neologisms* can be fun-ti-ful, but the problem is making sure others understand what you mean. The word *neologism* was once a neologism itself. It was created by gluing the French prefix *neo-* onto the Greek *logos* or "word." People coin neologisms all the time, linguists track which ones stick, and eventually, we all feel they're old friends. Or maybe not: random samples from words coined in 2003 include: *adultolescence*, *pastability*, *pre-zactly*, and *neomaxizoomdweebie.*

Answer 132

neophyte any new participant in some activity - **[n]** a new convert being taught the principles of Christianity by a catechist - **[n]** a plant that is found in an area where it had not been recorded previously - **[n]** Look at the little freshies, said the football team captain to his friends. "Little *neophytes* come to learn how the big boys play....Let's get 'em!" *Neo-* means new, and *-phyte* is from the Greek *phuton* "plant"––like a baby plant, a *neophyte* is someone who is new to an activity. A political neophyte is someone who has just been elected and comes to Washington D.C. not understanding how the game of politics is played. A Frisbee neophyte is someone who has just thrown the disc for the first time.

Answer 133

nexus the means of connection between things linked in series - **[n]** a connected series or group - **[n]** If you happen to be at the *nexus* of something, this noun means that you are right in the middle. A *nexus* is a noun that stands for something at the center or that which others are gathered around. The word entered English during the seventeenth century from the Latin word *nectere* and means "to bind, tie." In the field of cell biology, a *nexus* refers to "a specialized area of the cell membrane involved in intercellular communication and adhesion," and implies that the *nexus* of a cell facilitates communication among the various parts and allows it to work properly.

Answer 134

nostalgia longing for something past - **[n]** Think of the noun, *nostalgia,* when you long for the good old days of the past. The noun *nostalgia* was invented by a Swiss doctor in the late 1600s. He put together the Greek *nostos* "homecoming" and *algos* "pain, distress" as a literal translation of the German *Heimweh* "homesickness." Originally, it was a medical diagnosis for mercenary soldiers. Today, it describes a bittersweet longing for the past. Think of the dreamy way your grandpa tells stories of his childhood — he's got nostalgia.

Answer 135

nostrum patent medicine whose efficacy is questionable - **[n]** hypothetical remedy for all ills or diseases; once sought by the alchemists - **[n]** Though you try many medicines that claim to cure your cold, none of them work. They turn out to be *nostrums*, or ineffective drugs. *Nostrum* refers to a cure-all, a drug, or a medicine that is ineffectual. Before drugs were regulated by the government, there were many nostrums sold to the public. "Snake oil" is one of the most well-known. Said to cure any ailment from achy joints to hair loss, snake oil concoctions could contain a number of ingredients — including camphor, red pepper, and turpentine.

Answer 136

nugatory of no real value - **[adj]** a **nugatory** law Something *nugatory* has no real value; it’s worthless. All your excuses for why you didn’t turn the bath tap off when you left the apartment are *nugatory*; they don’t change the fact that the tub overflowed and leaked into the apartment below. An adjective meaning "trifling, of no value," *nugatory* comes from the Latin *nugatorius* "worthless, futile," which in turn came from the also Latin *nugatory* — "jester, trifle." It’s a word you probably don’t hear too often, but it’s a fun and descriptive one to use. Describe something with no force or importance as *nugatory*. "Whether this rug is red or green is *nugatory* to someone who is colorblind."

Answer 137

obdurate stubbornly persistent in wrongdoing - **[adj]** showing unfeeling resistance to tender feelings - **[adj]** the child's misery would move even the most **obdurate** heart *Obdurate* is a formal word meaning stubborn. If you want to major in English, but your parents are *obdurate* that you should go premed, they might go so far as to threaten not to pay your tuition. This adjective descends from Latin *obdurare* "to harden." A near synonym is *adamant*, from Latin *adamas* "hard metal, diamond." So both of these synonyms derive from the quality of hardness being associated with a stubborn personality.

Answer 138

obsequious attempting to win favor from influential people by flattery - **[adj]** attentive in an ingratiating or servile manner - **[adj]** **obsequious** shop assistants If you disapprove of the overly submissive way someone is acting — like the teacher's pet or a celebrity's assistant — call them by the formal adjective *obsequious*. There are many words in the English language for a person or an action that is overly obedient and submissive. Obsequious people are usually not being genuine; they resort to flattery and other fawning ways to stay in the good graces of authority figures. An obsequious person can be called a bootlicker, a brownnoser or a toady. You can also say that someone gives an obsequious bow, a gesture that means, "your wish is my command."

Answer 139

obsequy a false accusation of an offense or a malicious misrepresentation of someone's words or actions - **[n]** state of disgrace resulting from public abuse - **[n]** If you are on the receiving end of *obloquy*, then society has turned against you and you are in a state of disgrace. Poor Hester Prynne who was forced to wear a red "A" on her chest for "adultery" knows all about *obloquy*. If you break the word *obloquy* into its two Latin roots, you have *ob*, meaning "against" and *loqui*, meaning "to speak" — so *obloquy* means "to speak against," in an especially mean way. *Obloquy* can also be the result of public shame, or criticism. Get scolded in front of the other shoppers by the grocery store manager for knocking over a display of bottles, and you will understand what obloquy is!

Answer 140

obviate do away with - **[v]** prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening - **[v]** To *obviate* means to eliminate the need for something or to prevent something from happening. If you want to *obviate* the possibility of a roach infestation, clean your kitchen regularly. The prefix *ob* means "to go against." That makes sense when you look at the words *obstruct* and *obstacle*, but how about *obstetrics*? Why does the name of the branch of medicine dealing with birth have the same root as words that mean "stop" or "get in the way"? Because a midwife stands opposite to, or against, the woman giving birth.

Answer 141

occlude block passage through - **[v]** * Occlude* means to obstruct, as with an opening. You hear this a lot in a medical context. Heart surgeons are looking for *occlusions* in blood vessels––things that *occlude* the flow of blood. * Occlude* does not exist only in a medical context. If you close the bathroom door so your little brother won't come in while you're trying out makeup with your friends, you're occluding the bathroom. Meanwhile, your makeup occludes your pores.

Answer 142

odyssey a long wandering and eventful journey - **[n]** Ever since Homer’s epic poem *The Odyssey* told the story of warrior Odysseus’ ten-year journey home from Troy, *odyssey* has meant any epic journey. As with the word *journey*, *odyssey* has both a literal meaning and a figurative one. A cross-country drive in which your car breaks down can be an odyssey, but so can the journey from orientation to finals that is the freshman year of college.

Answer 143

officious intrusive in a meddling or offensive manner - **[adj]** bustling about self-importantly making an **officious** nuisance of himself Though *officious* sounds like official, it means being annoyingly eager to do more than is required. "The *officious* lunch lady made everyone's food choices her business, and made nasty comments when students chose cookies over carrots." *Officious* is a tricky word as it seems like it might mean something like office or official. Instead, it is a word to describe someone that acts more official than they actually are. People who are *officious* are busybodies. They want to make their opinions known and followed, despite not having any kind of real power.

Answer 144

olfactory of or relating to olfaction - **[adj]** Something *olfactory* has to do with the sense of smell. The odor from that factory is a symphony of *olfactory* delights. Not. Though we typically think of dogs as the olfactory champions of the world, what with their remarkable ability to sniff out practically anything, the true title belongs to the polar bear. Healthy, adult polar bears possess *olfactory* gifts that boggle the mind: they can smell a seal under the ice from over a kilometer away. One way to try to remember the meaning of the word *olfactory* is to think of *factory*. Your nose is the "factory" where odors are processed. What *visual* is to the eyes, *olfactory* is to the nose.

Answer 145

oligarchy a political system governed by a few people - **[n]** one of his cardinal convictions was that Britain was not run as a democracy but as an **oligarchy**"the big cities were notoriously in the hands of the **oligarchy** of local businessmen" Does it ever feel like just a few people have all the power? If it's a government that's run like this, it's an *oligarchy*. A country that has this form of government is an *oligarchy* too. The political term, *oligarchy,* comes to English from the Greek with its meaning intact - a form of government run by a small number of people such as wealthy landowners, royalty or powerful military figures. If you say that you can't fight the oligarchy, you mean the leaders of such a place. Sometimes the word refers to the few powerful people in charge of a large company or system. A financial oligarchy might try to block reform.

Answer 146

onerous not easily borne; wearing - **[adj]** my duties weren't **onerous** If one teacher gives you three hours of homework a night, that's rough. But if all of your teachers do it, that makes the task of completing your homework an *onerous* one, to say the least. If something is *onerous*, it is very difficult to deal with or do. A near synonym is *burdensome*. In legal usage, *onerous* describes a contract or lease that has more obligations than advantages. *Onerous* derives from Middle English, from Old French *onereus*, from Latin *onerōsus*, from *onus* "burden." In English, an *onus* is a task or duty that is *onerous,* or very difficult.

Answer 147

onomatopoeia using words that imitate the sound they denote - **[n]** Boom! Bang! Crash! When a word is formed from the sound that an associated thing makes, call it an example of *onomatopoeia*. In Greek, *onomatopoeia* (on-uh-mah-tuh-PEE-ah) simply means "word-making," but in English it refers to a very specific process of word-making: an attempt to capture the sound of something. Examples of onomatopoeia in English include *burble, buzz, slosh, ratatat,* and *thud*. Words created by onomatopoeia can seem totally natural, but they can be surprisingly different from language to language: in Japanese, dogs say *wan wan*, but in Greek they say *gav gav*.

Answer 148

opprobrium a state of extreme dishonor - **[n]** state of disgrace resulting from public abuse - **[n]** the name was a by-word of scorn and **opprobrium** throughout the city If you go against or oppose what's good, you might earn *opprobrium* — the opposite of getting attention for something good. Bad behavior leads to *opprobrium*. If you throw a soft drink off the theater balcony, the *opprobrium* might keep you from getting dates to the movies. Even though the words aren't related, the "opp-" of the word *opprobrium* sounds a bit like the "app" part of "inappropriate." Opprobrium isn't an action that leads to disgrace, it's something that comes from the inappropriate thing that was done. A very inappropriate act leads to opprobrium for the person who did the act. "Infamy" — extreme dishonor, often with lasting consequences — is a synonym for *opprobrium*.

Answer 149

ornithologist a zoologist who studies birds - **[n]** An *ornithologist* is a type of zoologist who focuses on birds. If you want to know anything about our fine feathered friends, consult an *ornithologist*. Having a birdbath in your backyard doesn't make you an ornithologist. An ornithologist is someone who studies ornithology — the branch of science devoted to birds. Ornithologists study every aspect of birds, including bird songs, flight patterns, physical appearance, and migration patterns. Birds are genetically related to dinosaurs, which is something else an ornithologist might study.

Answer 150

oscillate move or swing from side to side regularly - **[v]** be undecided about something; waver between conflicting positions or courses of action - **[v]** the needle on the meter was **oscillating**"He **oscillates** between accepting the new position and retirement" On a hot day, you’ll be happy to have a fan that can *oscillate*, meaning it moves back and forth in a steady motion. The verb *oscillate* can be traced back to the Latin word *oscillum*, meaning "swing," so it makes sense that *oscillate* is used to describe an object like a fan or a pendulum that swings from side to side. The word also can be used to describe a different kind of motion — the wavering of someone who is going back and forth between conflicting beliefs or actions. If you’ve ever had trouble making up your mind about something, you probably know what it feels like to oscillate — back and forth from one decision and to another and then back again. And again. And again.

Answer 151

ostentatious intended to attract notice and impress others - **[adj]** (of a display) tawdry or vulgar - **[adj]** an **ostentatious** sable coat Reach for the adjective *ostentatious* when you want a flashy way to say — well, "flashy" or "showy." No one wants to be described as *ostentatious*, a word whose cousins include *pretentious*, *flamboyant*, and *gaudy*. It originates from the Latin word *ostentare*, "to display," but in English it's often used for displays of the crass or vulgar sort. A rapper's diamond-encrusted teeth might be an ostentatious display of "bling," and someone wailing especially loudly at a funeral of a distant acquaintance might be making an ostentatious show of sorrow.

Answer 152

overweening presumptuously arrogant - **[adj]** unrestrained, especially with regard to feelings - **[adj]** had a witty but **overweening** manner ""no idea how **overweening** he would be"- S.V.Benet" "**overweening** ambition" *Overweening* is a negative term meaning arrogant or excessive. People can be described as having *overweening* pride or *overweening* ambition. It's too much and not good. Confidence and pride are okay in moderation. *Overweening* means having too much of it though so that it overtakes the rest of your personality, and not in a good way. If your football team has won every game of the season, they need to watch that they don't become overweening and start playing games as if they have already won.

Answer 153

paean (ancient Greece) a hymn of praise (especially one sung in ancient Greece to invoke or thank a deity) - **[n]** a formal expression of praise - **[n]** A *paean* is a hymn of praise or thanksgiving. You might sing a *paean* in church, where many hymns extol the greatness of God. *Paean* was originally a song of praise for Apollo, or Paian as he was sometimes called. You can now use *paean* to mean any song of praise, regardless of the deity, or to mean a formal expression of praise, like a eulogy. At your mother's birthday dinner, it might be nice for you and your brothers and sisters to write and sing a paean to her good-natured love and support of you over many years.

Answer 154

paleontology the earth science that studies fossil organisms and related remains - **[n]** That five-year-old dinosaur expert who can tell a trilobite from a pterodactyl and tell you which thrived during the Jurassic period? She’s a budding *paleontology* expert. Scientific language aims at clarity, and scientists generally speak to each other in Greek and Latin. The commonly used suffix *-ology* comes from Greek, and it means "the study of." The prefix *paleo* means "old." So, paleontology is the study of that which is old—really, really old. The word *paleontology* entered the English language in the nineteenth century, just as scientists were making a systematic effort to analyze fossil records.

Answer 155

pallid abnormally deficient in color as suggesting physical or emotional distress - **[adj]** (of light) lacking in intensity or brightness; dim or feeble - **[adj]** lacking in vitality or interest or effectiveness - **[adj]** the **pallid** face of the invalid "a **pallid** sky" "a **pallid** performance" Santa looks a little *pallid*, meaning that he has a pale complexion, from spending too much time at the North Pole. A few days in Hawaii might do wonders to add color to his pale, bearded face. *Pallid* means pale, or lacking color. It's often used together with *complexion* to describe someone who has a pale face, either due to a lack of sunshine or some kind of emotional distress. A reclusive author could be pallid from spending too much time indoors. His books can also be called pallid if they're lacking in color and excitement.

Answer 156

panegyric formally expressing praise - **[adj]** a formal expression of praise - **[n]** A formal, high-minded speech can be described with a formal, high-minded word — the word *panegyric*, which is a very elaborate tribute to someone. You could consider most eulogies as *panegyrics*. It stands to reason that the original use of the word *panegyris*, from which *panegyric* derives, was to describe a public gathering in honor of a Greek god. The Latin, L. *panegyricus*, altered slightly to mean "public eulogy," which around the 16th Century shifted to the French *panégyrique*, which meant "laudation." In any case, the word today stands for high praise given in a speech or tribute as highfalutin as the word itself sounds.

Answer 157

paragon an ideal instance; a perfect embodiment of a concept - **[n]** model of excellence or perfection of a kind; one having no equal - **[n]** *Paragon* applies to someone who is a model of perfection in some quality or trait. We link *paragon* with other words that follow it, such as "*paragon* of virtue" or "*paragon* of patience." A *paragon* means someone or something that is the very best. The English noun *paragon* comes from the Italian word *paragone*, which is a touchstone, a black stone that is used to tell the quality of gold. You rub the gold on the touchstone and you can find out how good the gold is. You are hoping that it is the paragon of "goldness."

Answer 158

partisan a fervent and even militant proponent of something - **[n]** a pike with a long tapering double-edged blade with lateral projections; 16th and 17th centuries - **[n]** If something is prejudicial towards a particular point of view, you can call it *partisan*. You'll often hear of the *partisan* politics in the US — since politicians seem to be so devoted to either the Republican or Democratic parties. *Partisan* can be used to describe rabid supporters of any person or activity. In American English, however, it is most often used to refer to politics and the American two-party system of Democrats and Republicans. A bill introduced may have partisan support from the party that introduced the bill, or — more rarely it seems to American voters — the bill may even have bipartisan support. The prefix *bi* is added to show the support from both parties.

Answer 159

pathological of or relating to the practice of pathology - **[adj]** caused by or evidencing a mentally disturbed condition - **[adj]** **pathological** laboratory "a **pathological** liar" "a **pathological** urge to succeed" If something is caused by a physical or mental disease, it is *pathological*, like someone whose need to wash the floor every evening is part of a *pathological* compulsion for cleanliness, or a growth on someone's elbow that turned out to be a *pathological*. *Pathological* comes from a Greek word, *pathologikos*, which means "treating of diseases" — *pathos* means "suffering." Anyone who studies or works with diseases, from their causes to their symptoms, identifies how the disease affects its victims, in other words, its *pathological* effects. Remember that this is a medical distinction. If a person has, for example, obsessive-compulsive disorder, his or her repetitive actions are pathological.

Answer 160

pathos a quality that arouses emotions (especially pity or sorrow) - **[n]** a feeling of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others - **[n]** a style that has the power to evoke feelings - **[n]** the film captured all the **pathos** of their situation *Pathos* is a quality that stirs emotions. A song with a lot of *pathos* hits you right in the heart. You ever notice how some songs or movies appeal to your brains, while others appeal to your feelings? The ones that are all about feeling are full of pathos, an appeal to emotions that originally meant "suffering" in Greek. Often, this word has to do specifically with pity and sympathy: when someone tells a story about people suffering that makes you feel for them, that's pathos.

Answer 161

patois a regional dialect of a language (especially French); usually considered substandard - **[n]** a characteristic language of a particular group (as among thieves) - **[n]** The noun *patois* describes the way you talk, like the *patois* of New Englanders who tend to drop the letter *r*: "Drive yah cah to Hahvahd Yahd," while others say, "Drive your car to Harvard Yard." *Patois*, which rhymes with "voilà," is speech used in a particular region, profession, or group. It is a French word that originated as "rough speech." Examples of patois are found in every region of the world, but perhaps the most famous is Jamaican. "Ah wha dat yuh ah luok pan?," is Jamaican patois for, "What’s that you’re looking at?" *Patois* is also the "jargon" or "lingo" used by a group, such as musicians whose patois is lost on non-musicians.

Answer 162

paucity an insufficient quantity or number - **[n]** The word *paucity* means not enough of something. If you've got a *paucity* of good cheer, for example, you'd better cheer up! One good way to remember the meaning of *paucity* is that it's a bit like *pauper*, as in The Prince and the Pauper. The prince had too much money, and the pauper had a paucity. There are a lot of words that mean "little" or "small," but *paucity* is used when you mean specifically "not enough" or "too little." People in LA don't understand how New Yorkers can live with such a paucity of space. For what New Yorkers pay for a tiny apartment, Angelenos get a house and a yard.

Answer 163

pedant a person who pays more attention to formal rules and book learning than they merit - **[n]** A *pedant* is an annoying person who is focused on minor details and book knowledge rather than ordinary common sense. In war, it can be dangerous to have a pedant as commander––he'll insist on textbook maneuvers instead of adapting to circumstances on the ground. This word was borrowed from French *pédant* or Italian *pedante* "teacher, schoolmaster," but its ultimate origin is unknown. One theory is that the original meaning of Italian *pedante* was "foot soldier," associated with the Italian word *pedagogo* "teacher" because teachers are always on their feet. Another theory is that Italian *pedante* was formed from the root of Greek *paideuein* "to teach," which happens to be the source of English *pedagogue* "teacher." In fact, a *pedagogue* is a pedantic teacher.

Answer 164

pedantic marked by a narrow focus on or display of learning especially its trivial aspects - **[adj]** There's nothing wrong with focusing on the details, but someone who is *pedantic* makes a big display of knowing obscure facts and details. *Pedantic* means "like a pedant," someone who's too concerned with literal accuracy or formality. It's a negative term that implies someone is showing off book learning or trivia, especially in a tiresome way. You don't want to go antique-shopping with a pedantic friend, who will use the opportunity to bore you with his in-depth knowledge of Chinese porcelain kitty-litter boxes.

Answer 165

pellucid transmitting light; able to be seen through with clarity - **[adj]** (of language) transparently clear; easily understandable - **[adj]** a **pellucid** brook "**pellucid** prose" A sentence that teaches a new vocabulary word should always be *pellucid,* that is, its style and meaning should be easily understandable so that you can derive the definition from the sentence. You may have heard the word *lucid*, which means clear. Both *lucid* and *pellucid* derive from a Latin word that means "to shine through." Pellucid water is clear, a pellucid sky is a particularly intense shade of blue, pellucid prose is writing that's easy to understand, and pellucid singing is clear and light in tone.

Answer 166

penchant a strong liking - **[n]** the Irish have a **penchant** for blarney A *penchant* is a strong preference or tendency. If you have a *penchant* for pizza, you either eat it daily, or wish you did. *Penchant* borrows from French, in which *penchant* literally means inclined. It goes back to the Latin *pendere*, for hanging, which is also the source of *pendant*. In both French and English, speakers have long used the idea of *inclination* metaphorically: a hillside can be inclined in one direction or another, and so can a person's thoughts. But in English, *penchant* is only for desires.

Answer 167

peregrination traveling or wandering around - **[n]** If you went backpacking through Europe last summer, you could call your travels a *peregrination*. A *peregrination* is a long journey or period of wandering. *Peregrination* comes from the Latin *peregrinari*, which means "to travel abroad." A peregrination is a journey or pilgrimage, especially one that's made on foot. This word typically applies to traveling for an extended period of time or over a great distance. So, you wouldn’t call a trip to the grocery store a peregrination. However, if you traveled the globe looking for the world’s best grocery store, you could call that a peregrination.

Answer 168

peremptory putting an end to all debate or action - **[adj]** not allowing contradiction or refusal - **[adj]** offensively self-assured or given to exercising usually unwarranted power - **[adj]** a **peremptory** decree "spoke in **peremptory** tones" "**peremptory** commands" *Peremptory* comments are like orders. If you say something in a *peremptory* manner, you want people to stop what they’re doing and do what you say. *Peremptory* comments put an end to a discussion, and that’s final! The word *peremptory* comes from the Latin *peremptorius* for "decisive, final." Trace it further and find that *peremptor* means "destroyer," from *perimpere* for "destroy, cut off." Basically, peremptory commands destroy the conversation. They are given with an air of authority, and they are often barked. In the courtroom, peremptory orders are not open to appeal; they’re final. Outside of the courtroom, a peremptory manner is just plain rude.

Answer 169

perennial lasting three seasons or more - **[adj]** lasting an indefinitely long time; suggesting self-renewal - **[adj]** recurring again and again - **[adj]** (botany) a plant lasting for three seasons or more - **[n]** the common buttercup is a popular **perennial** plant "**perennial** happiness" "**perennial** efforts to stipulate the requirements" * Perennial* typically describes things that are permanent, constant, or repeated. If you fight with your parents every year over whether they really must invite your annoying cousins for Thanksgiving, you could call that a *perennial* conflict. * Perennial* typically describes things that are permanent, constant, or repeated: a *perennial* conflict. A *perennial* plant (also called a *perennial*) lasts more than two years because it produces flowers and seeds from the same root structure every year. *Perennial* is from Latin *perennis,* from the prefix *per-* "through" plus *annus* "year." Latin *annus* is also the source of our English word *annual*. An *annual* plant lives only one year or season.

Answer 170

perfidious tending to betray; especially having a treacherous character as attributed to the Carthaginians by the Romans - **[adj]** the **perfidious** Judas If someone accuses you of being *perfidious*, you should probably be offended — it means underhanded, treacherous, deceitful — even evil. If you betray people often, you're *perfidious*: traitors are extremely perfidious. Besides betrayal, this word implies lying and maybe other kinds of awful behavior, like stealing and taking bribes. Everyone tries to avoid perfidious people. *Perfidious* is kind of an old-fashioned word, but being perfidious will never go out of style, unfortunately.

Answer 171

perfunctory hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough - **[adj]** as a formality only - **[adj]** **perfunctory** courtesy *Perfunctory* means done as part of a routine or duty. If you give someone a gift and they look at it like it's roadkill and say nothing about it but a *perfunctory* "thank you," you might not be giving them another one anytime soon. A person who does something in a perfunctory way shows little enthusiasm or interest in what they are doing. Many of our everyday greetings are *perfunctory*. For example, when we say hello and how are you, it's usually done out of habit. *Perfunctory* is from Latin *perfunctus,* from *perfungi* "to get through with, perform," formed from the Latin prefix *per-* "completely" plus *fungi* "to perform."

Answer 172

perigee periapsis in Earth orbit; the point in its orbit where a satellite is nearest to the Earth - **[n]** The *perigee* is the point in the orbit of an object circling the Earth when that object is closest to the Earth. The best time to observe the moon is when the moon reaches its *perigee*. The Greek ancestor of the word *perigee* was originally used by Ptolemy, a Roman scientist and astrologer who lived almost 2,000 years ago. The opposite of *perigee* is *apogee.* A *perigee* is measured from the center of the earth to the center of the orbiting object. When the moon is at its perigee, it can appear up to 14 percent larger than when it is at its apogee, but you probably can't tell the difference with the naked eye.

Answer 173

permeable allowing fluids or gases to pass or diffuse through - **[adj]** **permeable** membranes "rock that is **permeable** by water" Something that is *permeable* can be passed through, especially by liquids or gases. "I wish I hadn't worn my *permeable* sweater to the picnic when the weatherman called for thunderstorms. The rain seeped right through the fabric, soaking me to the skin." A *permeable* surface allows materials like liquids to pass through — either in or out. Inside the body, the walls of cells are *permeable* membranes that allow fluids and nutrients to get in and nourish the cells. A *permeable* shirt is good to wear in the summer, because it helps release the sweat sticking to the skin.

Answer 174

perturb disturb in mind or make uneasy or cause to be worried or alarmed - **[v]** disturb or interfere with the usual path of an electron or atom - **[v]** She was rather **perturbed** by the news that her father was seriously ill "Fundamental Islamicists threaten to **perturb** the social order in Algeria and Egypt" "The electrons were **perturbed** by the passing ion" To *perturb* is to bug or bother someone by confusing them or throwing them off balance. You can try, but it's almost impossible to *perturb* the guards outside Buckingham Palace. If you're having trouble getting used to the word *perturb*, you're in luck! It's similar in meaning to the verb "disturb." That's right, to perturb is to disturb, but in a way that suggests you're throwing it off its usual path or routine. The movie *Born Free* truly perturbed widespread views about animals—people suddenly started seeing them as individuals. If you stare at a person you don't know, it won't be long before you perturb them.

Answer 175

pervasive spreading or spread throughout - **[adj]** the **pervasive** odor of garlic "an error is **pervasive** if it is material to more than one conclusion" When something is *pervasive*, it's everywhere. Common things are *pervasive* — like greed and cheap perfume. Ever notice how certain trends seem to spread all over the place? When something — like a hairstyle — is super-common, it's pervasive. Pervasive things can't be escaped. Playing video games is pervasive among kids. Talking about the weather is pervasive among adults. Ideas, diseases, habits, and all sorts of things can be pervasive. If you're sick of seeing something because you're seeing it again and again, it must be pervasive.

Answer 176

petulant easily irritated or annoyed - **[adj]** Choose the adjective, *petulant,* to describe a person or behavior that is irritable in a childish way. The adjective, *petulant,* is a disapproving term used to describe a bad-tempered child, an adult behaving like an angry child or behavior or this type. *Angry* or *annoyed* mean the same thing, but if you choose the word, *petulant,* you are indicating that it is unreasonable or unjustified. *Petulant* came to English in the late 16th century from the Latin *petulantem* "forward, insolent" but was not recorded to mean childishly irritable until the late 1700s.

Answer 177

phlegmatic showing little emotion - **[adj]** a **phlegmatic**...and certainly undemonstrative man Yes, *phlegmatic* has roots in that colorless, mucous stuff called phlegm, but people who are *phlegmatic* aren't called that because they have lots of mucous. They are just a little dull in expressing feelings or showing emotion. It may be their training more than their natural behavior, but those palace guards who wear the red coats and big hats and show absolutely no expression on their faces are phlegmatic. Attempts to make them laugh, smile, or twist their faces in irritation won’t work, because being phlegmatic is important to their role as stone-faced keepers of the palace. Phlegmatic people show less emotion on the outside — but who knows, they may be jumping up and down on the inside.

Answer 178

phoenix a legendary Arabian bird said to periodically burn itself to death and emerge from the ashes as a new phoenix; according to most versions only one phoenix lived at a time and it renewed itself every 500 years - **[n]** a large monocotyledonous genus of pinnate-leaved palms found in Asia and Africa - **[n]** If you want to see a *phoenix*, simply locate a unicorn or a centaur, and then you'll be in the right neighborhood. A *phoenix* is a mythical bird known for rising from its ashes. Don't try that at home! Accordingly to Arabian legend, the phoenix is a bird that periodically burns to death and is reborn from its own ashes. For this reason, the phoenix often serves as a symbol of renewal and rebirth. The name of Phoenix, Arizona, is a direct reference to this idea; Phoenix was built upon the ruins of a civilization that had collapsed long before, apparently due to drought.

Answer 179

physiognomy the human face (`kisser' and `smiler' and `mug' are informal terms for `face' and `phiz' is British) - **[n]** The meaning of *physiognomy* means the look of your face. When traveling in Italy, you may be struck by the wide eyes and pleasing *physiognomy* of the Italian people you meet. The reason *physiognomy* sounds like it should be something you study in school right after biology, geometry, and astronomy is that people used to think that it was a science by which you could tell someone's character through their facial features. If you've ever read any Nancy Drew stories, you will know how this plays out––anyone with "shifty eyes" is not to be trusted.

Answer 180

piety righteousness by virtue of being pious - **[n]** * Piety* is devotion to God or to religious practices. Nuns who pray all day long are famous for their *piety*. If you have filial *piety* it means you're devoted to your parents. * Piety* is sometimes used in a disapproving way to mean that the person is only pretending to be devoted or good. *Piety* was borrowed from French *pieté* "piety, pity," from Latin *pietas*, from *pius* "devoted, kind." This Latin adjective is the source of our English adjective *pious*.

Answer 181

piquant having an agreeably pungent taste - **[adj]** attracting or delighting - **[adj]** engagingly stimulating or provocative - **[adj]** a **piquant** face with large appealing eyes "a **piquant** wit" Feeling a little saucy? Perhaps a bit provocative — but in a good way? Then it's safe to say your personality is a little *piquant*. Coming to us from the French word *piquer*, which means "to prick," something that's piquant certainly piques your interest. Someone who's piquant engages you with charm and wit. A story that's filled with piquant details has plenty of juicy, provocative points. And grandma's homemade gravy? It's certainly zesty and piquant, even with all the lumps.

Answer 182

pique a sudden outburst of anger - **[n]** tightly woven fabric with raised cords - **[n]** The verb *pique* means to make someone angry or annoyed. But when something *piques* your interest or curiosity, here the verb *pique* just means to arouse, stimulate, or excite. Both the noun and verb are pronounced "pēk" and were borrowed from a French word meaning "a prick, irritation," from Old French, from *piquer* "to prick." So you can see how something that pricks you could make you both excited and angry. But it's frustrating––enough to make you want to storm away from learning vocab. That storming away, by the by, might be called a "fit of *pique*."

Answer 183

placate cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will of - **[v]** When a husband shows up with flowers after he's fought with his wife, he's trying to *placate* her. If you *placate* someone, you stop them from being angry by giving them something or doing something that pleases them. If your little sister is mad that the dog ate her favorite teddy bear, you could placate her by buying her an ice cream cone. A near synonym for *placate* is *appease*. The origin of *placate* is Latin *placare* "to calm or soothe." The related Latin verb *placere* is the source of English *please*.

Answer 184

placid (of a body of water) free from disturbance by heavy waves - **[adj]** not easily irritated - **[adj]** a ribbon of sand between the angry sea and the **placid** bay "not everyone shared his **placid** temperament" "remained **placid** despite the repeated delays" Call a body of water *placid* if it has a smooth surface and no waves. Call a person *placid* if they don't tend to make waves by causing a fuss. Coming from the Latin *placidus* "pleasing or gentle," *placid* is most commonly used to describe a person who is not easily irritated or a body of water such as a lake that does not have waves to disturb the surface. Synonyms of *placid* in both meanings include *calm,* *serene* and *tranquil.* In other uses, *placid* describes something with little disruption — like "a *placid* neighborhood."

Answer 185

plaintive expressing sorrow - **[adj]** *Plaintive* is an adjective for describing someone or something with a pleading, sorrowful, desperate tone. If you have ever heard the plaintive howl of a wolf, then you know what we are getting at here. A *plaint*, as in *complaint*, is an expression of sorrow or grief. This word has also been bent a little at the ends to become *plaintiff*, or *complainant*—the sufferer—in a lawsuit. So, whether you are hearing a plaintive tone in a courtroom, at a funeral, or in the wild (as in an animal's plaintive howl), you can be assured that someone or something desires something desperately.

Answer 186

plasticity the property of being physically malleable; the property of something that can be worked or hammered or shaped without breaking - **[n]** *Plasticity* means "changeability" or "moldability" — clay has a lot of *plasticity*, but a rock has almost none. It helps to think of *plastic* when learning what *plasticity* means. See how plastic can be molded into all sorts of things, and even when it's in a totally solid form, it's not hard like stone? *Plasticity* refers to things that can still change their shape or function. The brain is something with high plasticity: if you have a brain injury, other parts of the brain can change to pick up the slack. Anything that is capable of evolving or being reshaped has *plasticity*.

Answer 187

platitude a trite or obvious remark - **[n]** If an executive gives a speech that begins, "This business is all about survival of the fittest. You need to burn the midnight oil and take one for the team," his employees might get sick of listening to these meaningless clichés and tell him to cut the *platitudes.* The English language contains many old, worn-out clichés, or platitudes. Phrases like "ants in your pants" and "as American as apple pie" are so overused that they've almost lost their meaning. People rely on these tired old remarks when they can't think of anything original to say. Be warned: if you throw too many platitudes into your conversations, people are eventually going to get tired of listening to you.

Answer 188

platonic free from physical desire - **[adj]** **platonic** love *Platonic* describes a relationship that is purely spiritual and not physical. If a guy and a girl hang out all the time but aren't boyfriend and girlfriend, they'd describe their friendship as *platonic*. This word *platonic* refers to the writings of Plato, an ancient Greek philosopher who wrote on the interesting subject of love. Platonic love and platonic friendships are marked by the absence of physical or sexual desire. Plato did acknowledge physical desire, but thought that if two people truly inspired each other, their spiritual or ideal love would bring them closer to God.

Answer 189

plethora extreme excess - **[n]** * Plethora* means an abundance or excess of something. If you have 15 different people who want to take you on a date, you have a *plethora* of romantic possibilities. * Plethora* comes from the Greek for "fullness." Although it was originally used only in old-fashioned medicine to describe the condition of having too much blood, we use it to talk about any excessive supply. If you run a theater and all the seats are taken, that's a full house. But if the seats are full and people are standing in the aisles, you have a plethora of patrons. The stress is on the first syllable: PLETH-uh-ruh.

Answer 190

plumb exactly vertical - **[adj]** measure the depth of something - **[v]** completely; used as intensifiers - **[adv]** the tower of Pisa is far out of **plumb**"fell **plumb** in the middle of the puddle" To *plumb* a body of water, you measure its depth. To *plumb* a house, you connect all of its pipes. To make carpentry *plumb*, you get it exactly vertical. Originally, the verb *plumb* only meant "to measure the depth of water." These days, if you "*plumb* the depths" of something, you go in deep for knowledge and experience: your Heidegger seminar may plumb the depths of German Existentialism like Jacques Cousteau plumbed the depths of the ocean.

Answer 191

plummet drop sharply - **[v]** the metal bob of a plumb line - **[n]** The stock market **plummeted** The verb *plummet* means "to drop sharply," like eagles that *plummet* toward earth, seeking prey, or school attendance that *plummets* when there is a flu outbreak. To correctly pronounce *plummet*, say "PLUH-met." This verb describes something that drops sharply or quickly, like a roller coaster that plummets down a hill, temperatures that plummet overnight, or sales of roses and candy that plummet after Valentine's Day. If something plummets, this doesn't mean it will stay down or low forever, just that it has experienced a sharp drop.

Answer 192

plutocracy a political system governed by the wealthy people - **[n]** In a *plutocracy*, the people are ruled by the wealthy few. We know that's not true of our democracy. "One person, one vote" is how our system works. There's no *plutocracy* here. Rich people theoretically have no more power than do the poor. Whenever you see *cracy*, you know you're dealing with a form of rulership or government. The first part of the word comes from the Greek *ploutos*, meaning wealth. Put them together, and you get *plutocracy*, a government ruled by the rich. How does this differ from, say, an aristocracy? Well, the truth is that it isn't very different. Members of the aristocracy tend to be rich, but their money tends to be "old money." In a pure *plutocracy*, even the overnight billionaire can be a ruler.

Answer 193

porous full of pores or vessels or holes - **[adj]** allowing passage in and out - **[adj]** able to absorb fluids - **[adj]** our unfenced and largely unpoliced border inevitably has been very **porous**"the partly **porous** walls of our digestive system" "compacting the soil to make it less **porous**" If something is full of tiny holes or openings, you can describe it as *porous*. A sponge is *porous*, and if the border between countries is open for anyone to cross easily, it too can be called *porous*. You can see the word *pore* — meaning "a tiny opening" — in *porous*. When potters make a mug, they use special glazes to seal the porous clay, which otherwise would absorb the liquid you put in the mug. This meaning has expanded so *porous* can describe any barrier that allows easy passage in and out, like the porous border between two countries that allows residents to move easily between them.

Answer 194

poseur a person who habitually pretends to be something he is not - **[n]** Strike a pose, sang Madonna in her most famous song, "Vogue." But if the pose you're striking is fake, pretentious, or arrogant, you're a *poseur*. Be yourself: it's cooler. It's one thing to be smart, funny, or cool. It's another thing to pretend to be that way: that's the life of a poseur. (Say it in the French way: poh-ZUHR.) It's all too easy to spot a poseur from their ridiculous posing. Why poseurs think that they come across as anything other than fake is beyond me. They must be really insecure to think they need to pretend to be something they're not. Every once in a while, though, a poseur can fake it till they make it. Then they're no longer a poseur.

Answer 195

pragmatic concerned with practical matters - **[adj]** an imperial decree that becomes part of the fundamental law of the land - **[n]** not ideology but **pragmatic** politics To describe a person or a solution that takes a realistic approach, consider the adjective *pragmatic*. The four-year-old who wants a unicorn for her birthday isn't being very pragmatic. The opposite of *idealistic* is *pragmatic*, a word that describes a philosophy of "doing what works best." From Greek *pragma* "deed," the word has historically described philosophers and politicians who were concerned more with real-world application of ideas than with abstract notions. A pragmatic person is sensible, grounded, and practical — and doesn't expect a birthday celebration filled with magical creatures.

Answer 196

prate speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly - **[v]** idle or foolish and irrelevant talk - **[n]** To *prate* means to talk on and on about something. While it may be interesting to hear about other people’s vacations, when they *prate* about them until the wee hours, it becomes intolerable. There are more than a few instances where the famous have discouraged prating. Nursing great Clara Barton discouraged prating about "moral influences" when she encouraged a cigarette and a good, stiff glass of whiskey for Civil War soldiers. Herman Melville warned against mocking a lover’s wounded heart, saying "the stabbed man knows steel; *prate* not to him that it is only a ticking feather."

Answer 197

prattle speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly - **[v]** idle or foolish and irrelevant talk - **[n]** If your little sister won't stop talking about her latest crush and you don't want to hear it, you might say, "Stop prattling on about that loser!" To *prattle* is go on and on about something unimportant. *Prattle* can also be a noun. If your sister tattles about your comment regarding her prattling, you could defend yourself to your mother with: "I didn't mean to call Sophie's crush a loser, but she had driven me mad with her constant *prattle*." There are a lot of funny-sounding words with a meaning similar to *prattle* - *chatter, blether, blather, jabber, gabble, blabber*, and *babble*, to name a few.

Answer 198

preamble a preliminary introduction to a statute or constitution (usually explaining its purpose) - **[n]** make a preliminary introduction, usually to a formal document - **[v]** A *preamble* is a brief introduction to a speech, like the *Preamble* to the Constitution that starts out "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union...do ordain and establish this Constitution." *Preamble* comes from the Latin *praeambulus* which means "walking before." And that's what a *preamble* does — it "walks" before a speech, often explaining what's coming. It's like the White Rabbit introducing the Queen of Hearts in *Alice in Wonderland*. Since it goes before a speech, think of it as a *pre-ramble*. A *preamble* is usually used for formal documents; you wouldn't include one in a text to your best friend.

Answer 199

precarious not secure; beset with difficulties - **[adj]** affording no ease or reassurance - **[adj]** fraught with danger - **[adj]** a **precarious** truce "the **precarious** life of an undersea diver" Grab for the adjective *precarious* when something is unstable, dangerous or difficult and likely to get worse. Are you totally broke and the people you owe money to keep calling? You're in a *precarious* financial situation! The Latin root of *precarious* means "obtained by asking or praying." This fits well as *precarious* always signals that help is needed desperately. If your life is precarious or you are in a precarious situation, things could become difficult, maybe even dangerous, for you. If your footing or hold on something is precarious, it is unstable or not firmly placed, so that you are likely to slip or lose your grip.

Answer 200

precept rule of personal conduct - **[n]** a doctrine that is taught - **[n]** he believed all the Christian **precepts** A *precept* is a rule or direction, often with some religious basis, dictating a way you should act or behave. *Precepts* are little life lessons that are usually passed down to children by authority figures such as parents, teachers, or religious figures. They are not as simple or practical as "eat your vegetables"; they tend to be more weighty and pretentious. In *Hamlet*, the character Polonius dished out a few choice precepts to his son Laertes: "neither a borrower nor a lender be" and "give every man thy ear, but few thy voice." Of course Laertes never lived long enough to benefit from Polonius's sage advice, since Hamlet offed him with his own poisoned blade.

Answer 201

precipitate bring about abruptly - **[v]** fall from clouds - **[v]** The crisis **precipitated** by Russia's revolution "The bridge broke and **precipitated** the train into the river below" "Our economy **precipitated** into complete ruin" * Precipitate* usually means "bringing something on" or "making it happen" — and not always in a good way. An unpopular verdict might "*precipitate* violence" or one false step at the Grand Canyon could *precipitate* you down into the gorge. * Precipitate*, as a verb, can also mean specifically, "to fall from clouds," such as rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation. When used as an adjective, *precipitate* means "hasty" or "acting suddenly." If you decide to throw your class project in a trash masher just because someone in your class had a similar idea, then your actions might be described as precipitate. Or if you do that sort of thing regularly, you may be a precipitate person.

Answer 202

precursor something that precedes and indicates the approach of something or someone - **[n]** a person who goes before or announces the coming of another - **[n]** a substance from which another substance is formed (especially by a metabolic reaction) - **[n]** You've heard the old saying "Pride comes before the fall?" Well, you could just as easily say pride is a *precursor* to the fall. A *precursor* is something that happens before something else. You don't have to be a dead languages scholar to guess that this word springs from a Latin source — *praecursor*, "to run before." A precursor is usually related to what it precedes. It's a catalyst or a harbinger, leading to what follows or providing a clue that it's going to happen. Binging on holiday candy is a precursor to tummy aches and promises to exercise more. Draconian policies in unstable nations are often a precursor to rebellion.

Answer 203

preempt acquire for oneself before others can do so - **[v]** take the place of or have precedence over - **[v]** live broadcast of the presidential debate **preempts** the regular news hour "discussion of the emergency situation will **preempt** the lecture by the professor" If everyone at the lunch meeting is vying for the last roast beef sandwich, but you grab it first, you *preempt* your colleagues from getting it. Let them eat liverwurst. *Preempt* means to displace or take something before others can. *Preempt* combines the Latin prefix *prae-* "before" with *emere* "to buy." Think old-fashioned land grabs, midnight madness sales, and seating at concerts. It can also mean to replace one thing with another that’s more important. For instance, if the president is speaking or the football game is running long, brace yourself; the network just might preempt your favorite show.

Answer 204

prehensile adapted for grasping especially by wrapping around an object - **[adj]** having a keen intellect - **[adj]** immoderately desirous of acquiring e.g. wealth - **[adj]** a monkey's **prehensile** tail ""poets--those gifted strangely **prehensile** men"- A.T.Quiller-Couch" "**prehensile** employers stingy with raises for their employees" * Prehensile* means "able to grasp" and often refers to such body parts as claws, feet, and tails. Elephants curl their *prehensile* noses around objects in order to pick them up. * Prehensile* is an adjective that comes from a French word for "grasped." Humans and other primates (like monkeys, lemurs, and gorillas) have prehensile hands with curling fingers for grasping — a definite advantage over dogs, for instance, who can’t use a pencil when poetic inspiration strikes them. *Prehensile* can also mean "greedy" or "grasping for riches."

Answer 205

premonition an early warning about a future event - **[n]** a feeling of evil to come - **[n]** Some people claim to have *premonitions*, such as a dream about a friend they haven't seen in years the night before the friend dies. A *premonition* is a warning that comes in advance, or a feeling that something is going to happen. Like the synonym *foreboding*, a *premonition* usually refers to something bad or harmful. This noun is from Middle French *premonicion*, from Late Latin *praemonitio,* from Latin *praemonere* "to warn in advance," from the prefix *prae-* "before" plus *monere* "to warn."

Answer 206

presage a foreboding about what is about to happen - **[n]** a sign of something about to happen - **[n]** indicate by signs - **[v]** A *presage* is a sign that something bad is about to happen, like when you get that queasy feeling in your stomach because your mom found out you skipped band practice to go to the movies. *Presage*, pronounced "PREH-sige," can be a noun or a verb. As a noun, presage is a warning or omen of bad things to come, like a strange quiet and stillness in the air, presage to the coming tornado. As a verb, *presage* means "making a prediction or giving a warning of what's to come," like a terrible end-of-season football game's outcome game that *presaged* the struggles the team faced the next season.

Answer 207

presumptuous excessively forward - **[adj]** the duchess would not put up with **presumptuous** servants When someone takes liberties, doing things too boldly, you can describe them with the adjective *presumptuous*. *Presumptuous* comes from the Latin verb *praesumere* which means to take for granted. It means taking for granted your access to someone or power to do something. It's a very satisfying word and effective word because it belittles someone at the same time as criticizing him. In Shakespeare's "Henry VI," Northumberland calls Warwick "presumptuous and proud" for trying to get rid of the king. It's usually pronounced with all four syllables, pre-ZUMP-choo-us, although pre-ZUMP-chus is acceptable as well.

Answer 208

preternatural existing outside of or not in accordance with nature - **[adj]** surpassing the ordinary or normal - **[adj]** Beyond his **preternatural** affability there is some acid and some steel" - George Will" *Preternatural* describes something that seems oddly abnormal and out of sync with everything else. If you hear a *preternatural* dog's barking, maybe it sounds like a police siren instead of a howl. Note that *preternatural* contains the word *natural*. *Preter* comes from the Latin word *praeter* which means "beyond"; so something preternatural is beyond nature. It is less commonly used than *unnatural* or *supernatural* but means the same thing. If you lift a truck off the ground and hold it above your head, people will marvel at you and say you have preternatural strength.

Answer 209

prevaricate be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold information - **[v]** When you *prevaricate*, you lie or mislead. Now, go ahead and tell me whether you already knew that meaning, and don’t *prevaricate* about it — give me the story straight! While *prevaricate* basically means to lie, it also has the sense of making it hard to know exactly what the lie was. You talk in a confusing way, go back and forth, and as deliberately as possible mislead someone. Government officials, bureaucrats, and sneaky types prevaricate in the hopes that it will be too difficult to figure out whether they've been doing something wrong. Don't prevaricate with your parents — it will definitely make you look guilty, but they just won't be sure of what!

Answer 210

primordial having existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state - **[adj]** **primordial** matter "**primordial** forms of life" * Primordial*, an adjective, describes something that has been around forever, like cockroaches. * Primordial* comes the Latin words *primus*, meaning "first" and *ordiri*, "to begin." So it is easy to see that this adjective means "first of all, original. When something is primordial, it has existed since the earliest time, like the primordial mud some scientists believe was the source of all life on Earth. Remember that is it a scientific term — don't call your teacher "primordial" just because she's been teaching at your school since it opened.

Answer 211

pristine immaculately clean and unused - **[adj]** completely free from dirt or contamination - **[adj]** handed her his **pristine** white handkerchief "**pristine** mountain snow" If something is *pristine* it's immaculately clean or has never been used. So please check your shoes before walking on a *pristine* white carpet. A long, long time ago *pristine* was used to describe primitive or ancient things. It wasn’t until 1899 that the word grew to mean "unspoiled" or "pure." Ecologists strive to preserve pristine rain forests, just as vacationers are always looking for a pristine strip of beach to lounge on. A new car should arrive to you in pristine condition, and hopefully you'll do your best to keep it that way.

Answer 212

probity complete and confirmed integrity; having strong moral principles - **[n]** in a world where financial **probity** may not be widespread "he enjoys an exaggerated reputation for **probity**" Though *probity* sounds like what you might do with a sharp stick, it actually means being morally and ethically above reproach, having integrity. If you show fiscal probity, it means you are responsible and ethical with your money. The story of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree and refusing to lie about it is a story of probity. The story was first told by a pastor, who may have made the whole thing up according today's scholars, possibly to sell books –– no act of probity.

Answer 213

problematic making great mental demands; hard to comprehend or solve or believe - **[adj]** open to doubt or debate - **[adj]** a **problematic** situation at home "If you ever get married, which seems to be extremely **problematic**" Something *problematic* poses a problem or causes difficulties. Your ambitions to become the next great leader of Spain are great, but your inability to speak Spanish might prove *problematic*. Around 1600, the word *problematical* was shortened and *problematic* was born. Perhaps they wanted to make it less problematic for spellers. It's an adjective that means tough, hard to solve, or even questionable. A flat tire in the middle of the desert would certainly be problematic, as would a star witness with a history of telling lies.

Answer 214

prodigal recklessly wasteful - **[adj]** a recklessly extravagant consumer - **[n]** **prodigal** in their expenditures In the Bible, the *Prodigal* Son leaves home and wastes all his money, but when he returns, he feels sorry. Use the adjective *prodigal* to describe someone who spends too much money, or something very wasteful. *Prodigal* usually applies to the spending of money. In the Bible, the Prodigal Son leaves home and wastes all his money, but when he returns, he feels sorry. You could also use this word to describe something that is very abundant or generous in quantity, such as *prodigal* praise. *Prodigal* comes from Latin *prodigere* "to drive away, waste," from the prefix *prod-* "forth" plus *agere* "to drive."

Answer 215

profound situated at or extending to great depth; too deep to have been sounded or plumbed - **[adj]** coming from deep within one - **[adj]** showing intellectual penetration or emotional depth - **[adj]** of the greatest intensity; complete - **[adj]** (of sleep) deep and complete - **[adj]** the **profound** depths of the sea "a **profound** sigh" "the differences are **profound**" When you need a word that's deeper than "deep," consider *profound*. *Profundus* meant literally "deep" in Latin, and *profound* had the same meaning when it entered English in the 14th century. But even then, it also meant "figuratively deep" — that is, very great or intense: "The new laws have had a *profound* impact." Of people, it means "very knowledgeable or insightful," but sometimes if a person tries to sound profound they're really just giving you superficial knowledge dressed up with big words.

Answer 216

prohibitive tending to discourage (especially of prices) - **[adj]** the price was **prohibitive** If something's so expensive you can't touch it, it's *prohibitive*. That Ferrari in the showroom? You may want it, but its price is *prohibitive*. *Prohibitive* originally referred to something (often a law) that prohibits or forbids something, but came to mean conditions (often prices or taxes) so high or great they restrict or prevent something: "To some, the cost of child care is *prohibitive*." The stress is on the second syllable, just like the verb: pro-HIB-itive. If it's a matter of expense, a synonym is *exorbitant*.

Answer 217

proliferate grow rapidly - **[v]** cause to grow or increase rapidly - **[v]** Pizza parlors **proliferate** in this area "We must not **proliferate** nuclear arms" When something *proliferates*, it's growing, spreading or multiplying really quickly. Bunny rabbits have a habit of *proliferating*, as do dandelions in untended gardens and funny YouTube videos on the internet. *Proliferate* was originally a biological term used to describe the growth of cells and producing offspring. It wasn’t until 1961 that we started to use *proliferate* more generally to talk about everything from the spread of nuclear weapons to the wide growth of Walmart. Other similar words include *expand*, *reproduce*, *snowball*, and *spawn*.

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propensity a natural inclination - **[n]** an inclination to do something - **[n]** a disposition to behave in a certain way - **[n]** the **propensity** of disease to spread A *propensity* is a natural tendency to behave in a certain way. We all have *propensities* — things we tend to do. Dogs have a *propensity* to bark, and many people have a *propensity* for getting annoyed by it. If you have a propensity for something, then it's something that comes naturally to you or something you just do a lot. Some people have a propensity to laugh. Other people have a propensity for making others laugh, or for being generous, or for getting angry. It's hard to change your propensities. Sometimes a propensity is a bad thing, as in a criminal with a propensity for theft or murder.

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propitiate make peace with - **[v]** If you forgot flowers on your Mom's birthday, you can still *propitiate* her by sending a bouquet the next day. *Propitiate* means to appease someone or make them happy by doing a particular thing. Handy strategy for lovers, too. One of the most common uses of *propitiate* historically was in the sense of appeasing the Gods, often with a gift in the form of an animal or human sacrifice. Fortunately, for most people today flowers and candy will do the trick. But then again, some Moms can be tough to appease.

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propriety correct or appropriate behavior - **[n]** *Propriety* is following what is socially acceptable in speech and behavior. If you are someone who cares about always doing the right and proper thing, your friends might accuse you of being obsessed with *propriety* and beg you to loosen up. In the Victorian Age, both sexes had well-defined roles and were expected to exercise self-restraint. Except for the men. Everyone looked the other way when they went out on benders. Their wives at home however, were so confined by the era's standards of *propriety* that if a woman so much as referred to the fact that she was pregnant, everyone would cover their mouths and gasp. She'd committed an *impropriety*.

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proscribe command against - **[v]** To *proscribe* something is to forbid or prohibit it, as a school principal might *proscribe* the use of cell phones in class. *Proscribe* sounds similar to the word *prescribe*, but be careful: these words are essentially opposite in meaning. While *proscribe* means forbid, *prescribe* is used when a doctor recommends a medicine or remedy. Of course, if you want an excuse for not following your doctor’s orders, you could say you were confused about the meaning of these two words — but that would be lying, which is proscribed by most people’s value systems. And it would also be bad for your health.

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Provident ## Footnote providing carefully for the future **[adj]** careful in regard to your own interests **[adj]** wild squirrels are **provident**"a **provident** father plans for his children's education""wild squirrels are **provident**" If you are *provident*, that means you plan carefully for the future. You have your Christmas lights up in early December, you have a well-stocked pantry, and you have some savings tucked away just in case. The word *provident* traces back to the Latin word *providere,* meaning ""foresee, provide."" The word can be used to describe someone who looks into the future — foresees the future, in a sense — and makes decisions based on future needs. It’s often used to describe a thrifty individual who denies himself something today in order to save up for tomorrow, but it can describe actions as well — such as a provident decision that ends up preventing ruin down the road.

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Puissant ## Footnote powerful **[adj]** *Puissant* means powerful and in possession of authority, and is often used to describe the political power of someone, like a prince or president. Said the English poet, historian, and arguably puissant scholar John Milton, "Methinks I see in my mind a noble and *puissant* nation rousing herself like a strong man after sleep, and shaking her invincible locks." Synonyms for this somewhat rarely used adjective include *forcible*, *mighty*, *strong*, *steady*, *unyielding*, and *vigorous*.

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Punctilious ## Footnote marked by precise accordance with details **[adj]** **punctilious** in his attention to rules of etiquette A *punctilious* person pays attention to details. Are you always precisely on time? Is your room perfectly neat? Do you never forget a birthday or a library book's due date? Then you are one of the *punctilious* people. The adjective *punctilious*, pronounced ""punk-TIL-ee-us,"" is related to the Italian word *puntiglio*, meaning ""fine point."" For someone who is *punctilious* no point is too fine, no detail too small, to be overlooked. The word is often used to describe people, but it can be used more broadly to apply to observations, behavior, or anything else that is characterized by close attention to detail.

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Purport ## Footnote have the often specious appearance of being, intending, or claiming **[v]** propose or intend **[v]** the intended meaning of a communication **[n]** the pervading meaning or tenor **[n]** The letter **purports** to express people's opinion Use *purport* when you want to convince people about something that might not be true, like when you *purport* that the dog ate your homework. The verb *purport* can mean ""to claim"" — whether you mean it or not — or ""to intend,"" like when you purport to study all night. So it makes sense that as a noun, *purport* means the intention or purpose, like the purport of political candidate's speech was to get your vote. If the speech was long and hard to follow, you might be lucky just to get the purport, which here means ""the main point or meaning.""

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Pusillanimous ## Footnote lacking in courage and manly strength and resolution; contemptibly fearful **[adj]** You can describe someone who lacks courage as *pusillanimous*, such as a *pusillanimous* student who is too afraid to speak out against someone who is bullying others. Its Latin origin — *pusillus* and *animus* — tells us that *pusillanimous* means ""very small spirit."" If you are pusillanimous, pronounced ""pew-sill-AN-ih-mus,"" you don't have the spirit — or the confidence or drive — to step up when it matters. The pusillanimous person stays quiet, doesn't get involved, waits for someone else to take a stand — not out of laziness, but out of fear.

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Quagmire ## Footnote a soft wet area of low-lying land that sinks underfoot **[n]** A *quagmire* is a dangerous place, like the muddy shoreline of a pond. The more you try to climb out of a *quagmire*, the more you seem to slip. That's because as you step on the mud, it oozes everywhere. Long ago, *quag* was a synonym for ""bog"" or ""marsh,"" a swampy area where water seems to sit instead of drain out. *Mire* is another word to describe such a place. As a verb *mire* means ""stuck,"" like someone who is mired in quicksand or mired in work — both prevent you from going anywhere. In a quagmire, you get stuck physically — or, using its other meaning, in a situation that is hard to escape because there is no easy solution.

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Quail ## Footnote small gallinaceous game birds **[n]** draw back, as with fear or pain **[v]** Smaller than the chicken and not as well known as the pigeon, *quail* is like the often-overlooked middle child of the ground-dwelling bird family. Everyone always asks, "What’s that one’s name again?" about this bird. Every time. *Quail* is a broad, catchall word; it can refer to any one of many small domestic game birds. So if you’re bragging about the quail you shot on a hunting trip to your uptight, bird-obsessed pals, they might demand to know if it was the Bobwhite quail, the Valley quail or the Scaled quail, to name just a few.

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Qualified ## Footnote meeting the proper standards and requirements and training for an office or position or task **[adj]** holding appropriate documentation and officially on record as qualified to perform a specified function or practice a specified skill **[adj]** limited or restricted; not absolute **[adj]** restricted in meaning; (as e.g. `man' in `a tall man') **[adj]** contingent on something else **[adj]** many **qualified** applicants for the job"gave only **qualified** approval" * Qualified* means something depends on another action occurring. If your friend receives a *qualified* offer on her house, that means something else has to happen — like a bank approving the loan — before it's sold. * Qualified* is an adjective with multiple meanings. Employers seek the most qualified applicants, meaning those who have the most experience and relevant training. Being qualified might also mean you have paperwork that shows you had certain training or meet certain standards. Or *qualified* can mean ""partial"" or ""incomplete."" If you approve of something but others need to agree before it's final, you would give your qualified approval.

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Quibble ## Footnote evade the truth of a point or question by raising irrelevant objections **[v]** argue over petty things **[v]** an evasion of the point of an argument by raising irrelevant distinctions or objections **[n]** Let's not **quibble** over pennies A *quibble* is a small argument or fight. As a verb, it means to pick a mini-fight over something that doesn't really matter. ""Let's not *quibble* over price,"" people will say, usually when they plan to gouge you. It's better to watch figure skating with the sound off, rather than listening to the announcers quibble over a not-fully-rotated knee or the slightly diminished altitude of a jump. Sometimes a quibble between neighbors over two feet of property can escalate into a major feud.

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Quiescent ## Footnote being quiet or still or inactive **[adj]** marked by a state of tranquil repose **[adj]** not active or activated **[adj]** (pathology) causing no symptoms **[adj]** the **quiescent** melancholy of the town"the **quiescent** level of centimeter wave-length solar radiation""a **quiescent** tumor" The adjective *quiescent* means ""being quiet and still,"" like the *quiescent* moments lying in a hammock on a beautiful summer Sunday. To be *quiescent*, pronounced ""qwhy-ESS-ent,"" is to be quiet, resting, which is exactly what its Latin origin *quiescens* means: In our busy world, it is hard to find a place to be quiescent. It has a second meaning: ""causing no symptoms."" For example, if a disease is quiescent, you probably won't know you have it. And finally, *quiescent* can mean ""not activated,"" like quiescent cleaning products that don't get the stains out.

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Quorum ## Footnote a gathering of the minimal number of members of an organization to conduct business **[n]** A *quorum* is not necessarily a majority of members of a group, but the minimum needed in order to conduct business. For example, if two members of a group are absent, there can still be a *quorum*, meaning the meeting can go on without them. The noun *quorum* is plural of *qui* in Latin, meaning ""of whom."" The first *quorum* was an eminent group of justices of the peace. The word *quorum* was used in the commission papers that gave them the authority to act. Over time the current meaning, the minimum number needed to conduct business, was added, but the word still retains the meaning of a select group, as well.

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Raconteur ## Footnote a person skilled in telling anecdotes **[n]** *Raconteurs* are gifted storytellers, able to spin amusing tales from everyday life. Who is the biggest *raconteur* in your group? He or she's the one who always tells the best stories — or jumps in when another storyteller isn't being vivid enough. Do you make going to the store to buy groceries a fascinating experience? Do you offer witty observations of the people you pass on the street? If so, you're a raconteur, someone who can regale his or her listeners with riveting stories, usually funny, sometimes dramatic. *Raconteur* comes from the French word ""raconter,"" meaning ""to recount."" Note its ""eur"" ending, signaling its French origin.

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Rail ## Footnote a horizontal bar (usually of wood or metal) **[n]** complain bitterly **[v]** any of numerous widely distributed small wading birds of the family Rallidae having short wings and very long toes for running on soft mud **[n]** he traveled by **rail**"he was concerned with **rail** safety""**rail** in the old graves" The verb *rail* means to criticize severely. When you *rail* against increased taxes at a town meeting, you speak openly and loudly about how wrong the increase is and point out the problems it will cause. *Rail* can also mean ""to complain."" When your mom asks you to vacuum the house, you might rail against this chore by saying that you ALWAYS do the vacuuming, that vacuuming is SO hard, and that you hate the stupid vacuum! *Rail* can also mean to spread negative information about someone in an abusive way. If your ""friends"" rail against you to everyone in school, they're spreading nasty rumors about you, and you should find new friends!

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Raiment ## Footnote especially fine or decorative clothing **[n]** provide with clothes or put clothes on **[v]** * Raiment* is an old-fashioned word for clothing, particularly fancy clothing, like ladies who always wore their best *raiment* when calling on friends. * Raiment* is formal clothing. It comes from the Old French word *areer* or ""to array,"" which describes dressing in decorative clothing, or adorning yourself in the very best. The word *raiment* has mostly gone out of use, much like the rare practice of getting very dressed up.

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Ramification ## Footnote a development that complicates a situation **[n]** the act of branching out or dividing into branches **[n]** the court's decision had many unforeseen **ramifications** A *ramification* is an accidental consequence that complicates things. Remember that time you borrowed your father's car without asking? The *ramification* was that Dad missed an important meeting, his company went under, and he had to sell the car. Oops! The *ramifications* are the broader effects that fan out into the world from one situation, or decision, that kicks it all off. *Ramification* also refers to something branching out, like limbs on a tree — which is what bad decisions tend to do. *Ramification* is like *consequence*, but usually unintended and bad. The word is often used in political discussions about laws or government decisions because they might be made locally but could affect people worldwide.

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Rarefied ## Footnote of high moral or intellectual value; elevated in nature or style **[adj]** having low density **[adj]** lightheaded from the **rarefied** mountain air Use the adjective *rarefied* to describe things that are so stylish, smart, or moral that they seem elevated above the ordinary, like the *rarefied* conversation of brilliant scholars. To correctly pronounce *rarefied*, accent the first syllable: ""RARE-uh-fied."" In addition to high-minded conversation, the word *rarefied* can also describe the air in high elevations that has less oxygen, like the rarefied air that can be challenging to mountain climbers. Sometimes the quality of airlessness shades the other meaning of the word, implying that the rarefied world of elegant people isn't comfortable to everyone.

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Rebus ## Footnote a puzzle where you decode a message consisting of pictures representing syllables and words **[n]** A *rebus* is a puzzle that uses symbols or pictures to represent the sounds of words. A picture of an eye, a heart, and a ewe might be used to say ""I love you."" Isn't that sweet? A rebus uses pictures and symbols to convey a message in what may be considered a fun code. The letters *ICU* might be used to stand for the sentence "I see you." The word *rebus* could be depicted with the letters *RE* followed by a picture of a school bus. Some children's books use rebuses as a way of introducing kids to the reading process, but rebuses can also be quite challenging, even for the adult mind.

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Recalcitrant ## Footnote stubbornly resistant to authority or control **[adj]** marked by stubborn resistance to authority **[adj]** the University suspended the most **recalcitrant** demonstrators If someone is so pig-headed that he won't budge on an issue, call him *recalcitrant*. Not that it will make a difference... *Recalcitrant* is from Latin *calcitrare*, meaning ""to kick,"" so someone who is recalcitrant is kicking back against what's wanted of them. Synonyms are *unruly, intractable,* and *refractory,* all referring to what is difficult to manage or control. Writers are frequently referring to recalcitrant Democrats and Republicans, since many people are stubbornly loyal to their political parties and unwilling to change.

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Recant ## Footnote formally reject or disavow a formerly held belief, usually under pressure **[v]** If you're someone who speaks before you think, you may need to *recant*, or take back, that overly honest assessment of your friend's new haircut. *Recant* comes from two Latin roots: the prefix *re-*, meaning ""back,"" and the verb *cantare*, meaning ""to sing."" It has been suggested that *recant* was first used when someone reversed a charm, curse, or some other type of magical spell that would have been chanted or sung. Regardless of whether this is true or not, we suggest that you refrain from singing when you need to recant — unless you've been casting nasty spells on people.

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Recluse ## Footnote one who lives in solitude **[n]** withdrawn from society; seeking solitude **[adj]** A *recluse* lives alone, works alone, eats alone, and generally stays away from other people. Anti-social old hermits are *recluses*, as are a lot of students during exam time. In the early 13th century, a *recluse* was a person who shut out the world to go meditate on religious issues. But nowadays recluses can think about whatever they want while they're sitting in solitude — they're simply people who shy away from social interaction and live secluded lives. Or think of the Brown Recluse spider, who likes to hide out in dark old boots or undisturbed corners of the basement.

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Recondite ## Footnote difficult to penetrate; incomprehensible to one of ordinary understanding or knowledge **[adj]** some **recondite** problem in historiography It's rather difficult to penetrate the meaning of *recondite*. Fitting, because it's an adjective that basically means hard for the average mind to understand. If it's really hard to comprehend, then it's safe to say it's recondite. In the same family as ""abstruse,"" ""esoteric"" and ""totally deep, man,"" *recondite* is a very serious word that you could use to describe obscure philosophy books, high level mathematical theory, and the series finale of The Sopranos — you know, things that make your brain hurt.

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Redoubtable ## Footnote inspiring fear **[adj]** worthy of respect or honor **[adj]** a tougher and more **redoubtable** adversary than the heel-clicking, jackbooted fanatic"- G.H.Johnston""born of a **redoubtable** family" *Redoubtable* means honorable, maybe even intimidatingly so. If your grandmother worked tirelessly to raise four kids on her own and start her own taxi cab business and to this day, keeps all of her cabbies in line, she is without a doubt *redoubtable*. The adjective *redoubtable* traces back to the French word *redute*, meaning "to dread," a combination of the prefix *re-*, which adds emphasis, and *duter*, which mean "to doubt." But it isn't the redoubtable person that you doubt — it's yourself or your ability to compete against or be compared to him or her. That's where the dread comes in. But you can learn a lot from and be inspired by redoubtable people, if you can just get over being afraid of them.

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Refractory ## Footnote stubbornly resistant to authority or control **[adj]** not responding to treatment **[adj]** temporarily unresponsive or not fully responsive to nervous or sexual stimuli **[adj]** lining consisting of material with a high melting point; used to line the inside walls of a furnace **[n]** a **refractory** child"a **refractory** case of acne""the **refractory** period of a muscle fiber" Imagine yourself pulling a dog who doesn't want to walk. The dog is *refractory*, or stubbornly resisting your authority. The word *refractory* comes from a Latin word meaning obstinate and can also be used to mean not responsive to something. If you have a cold you can't shake, you could say you have a refractory cough. The word can also be used to describe a material that maintains its strength at very high heats. The outside of the space shuttle is made of refractory material, so that it can reenter the atmosphere without burning up.

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Refute ## Footnote overthrow by argument, evidence, or proof **[v]** prove to be false or incorrect **[v]** The speaker **refuted** his opponent's arguments The verb *refute* is to prove that something is wrong. When the kids you're babysitting swear they brushed their teeth, you can *refute* their claim by presenting the dry toothbrushes. Evidence and arguments are used to refute something. So are facts. For example, if children who eat chocolate before going to bed go straight to sleep, that refutes the idea that sugar keeps them up. *Refute* comes from the Latin *refutare* for ""to check, suppress."" A near synonym is *confute*, but save *refute* as an everyday word for proving something is false.

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Regale ## Footnote provide with choice or abundant food or drink **[v]** You may have heard it said that the fastest way to a person’s heart is through his stomach. So, if you need to please or impress someone, *regale* them — that is, treat them to lavish food and drink. While food is reliable way to regale someone, *regale* can also involve providing forms of entertainment such as music or storytelling. *Regale* is akin to the word *gala*, meaning "a festive party," and *gallant*, which can mean "spirited and adventurous" (though *gallant* can also mean "noble and brave"). If you regale someone with a gala attended by partygoers who are gallant, in either sense of the word, everyone should have a pretty good time.

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Relegate ## Footnote assign to a lower position; reduce in rank **[v]** assign to a class or kind **[v]** refer to another person for decision or judgment **[v]** expel, as if by official decree **[v]** People argue about how to **relegate** certain mushrooms"She likes to **relegate** difficult questions to her colleagues" * Relegate* means assign to a lower position. If the quarterback of the football team stops making decent throws he might be *relegated* to the position of benchwarmer, while another kid is given the chance to play. * Relegate* rhymes with *delegate*––both words derive from the Latin *legare* ""send."" *Relegate* means to send someone down in rank. *Delegate* means to send someone in your place to complete a task. In the workplace, managers who can't figure out how to delegate may get relegated to a lesser rank.

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Renege ## Footnote fail to fulfill a promise or obligation **[v]** the mistake of not following suit when able to do so **[n]** To *renege* is to go back on your word or fail to keep a promise. Not quite lying, *reneging* is more a sin of omission — failing to do what you said you would. The Latin *neg?re* means ""to deny,"" so by reneging on your word, you are denying someone whatever you promised them. In card games, you are said to renege if you play against the rules. To renege may be wrong, but it's not necessarily a punishable offense (unless you put that promise legally binding in writing). Still, it certainly doesn't make you look good!

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Reparation ## Footnote something done or paid in expiation of a wrong **[n]** the act of putting something in working order again **[n]** an act for which there is no **reparation**"Germany was unable to pay the **reparations** demanded after World War I" If you guessed that *reparation* is related to the word *repair*, you were right. Both come from the Latin word meaning ""to restore."" While *reparation* has a range of meanings, they all convey the sense of fixing or making up for a past wrong. In contemporary usage, the plural form is more common than the singular. Victims of a crime, for example, may receive *reparations* from the perpetrators. A defeated nation may be forced to pay *reparations* to its victorious enemies. Many have suggested that the United States government should provide *reparations* to the descendants of slaves. The word almost always has legal or political connotations, and it conveys the sense of restitution — often expressed in money — for wrongdoing.

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Repine ## Footnote express discontent **[v]** The verb *repine* describes expressing gloom or discontent. Brooding, fretful, and sad — these are the traits of people who *repine* at their circumstances in life. Early American poet Anne Bradstreet used *repine* in her well-known poem, ""Upon the Burning of Our House July 10th 1666,"" describing how the speaker got over the loss: ""And when I could no longer look, / I blest His grace that gave and took, / That laid my goods now in the dust. / Yea, so it was, and so 'twas just. / It was his own; it was not mine. / Far be it that I should *repine*.""

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Reprise ## Footnote repeat an earlier theme of a composition **[v]** *Reprise* means ""repeat an earlier role."" If you’re asked to *reprise* your role as ""kid entertainer"" at the annual family reunion, that means people want you to do it again this year. Early on, *reprise* was a part in a song or other musical composition that is repeated. The word still carries that meaning, but now it's more likely to be used as a verb to describe an action or part that is repeated, often a performance. For example, if you played a role in a wildly successful film that is going to have a sequel, you would reprise your role. The word comes from the French word *repris*, meaning ""take back.""

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Reproach ## Footnote express criticism towards **[v]** a mild rebuke or criticism **[n]** disgrace or shame **[n]** The president **reproached** the general for his irresponsible behavior"words of **reproach**""he brought **reproach** upon his family" *Reproach* means to mildly criticize. If you show poor manners at your grandmother's dinner table, she will *reproach* you. The verb *reproach* means to express disapproval or criticism of; as a noun it means blame or criticism. If you are *beyond reproach* that means no one could find anything to criticize about you. Synonyms for reproach are the verbs *admonish, reprove, rebuke, reprimand*. As a noun, *reproach* can also be shame. If you are caught lying, it is a reproach that might bother you for a while.

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Reprobate ## Footnote a person without moral scruples **[n]** reject (documents) as invalid **[v]** the **reprobate** conduct of a gambling aristocrat"These ideas were **reprobated**""God **reprobated** the unrepenting sinner" There's no way around it, a *reprobate* is a bad egg. The black sheep of the family, missing a moral compass — a *reprobate's* been called everything from a deviant to an evildoer to a scoundrel. Selfish, depraved, disreputable, a *reprobate* is not known for his inner goodness. In fact, *reprobates* were once considered ""rejected by God,"" the meaning of the noun in the 1500s. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, a *reprobate* was a popular literary character, sometimes amusing, as noted in Henry James' *Daisy Miller*, ""What a clever little *reprobate* she was, and how smartly she played an injured innocence!""

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Repudiate ## Footnote refuse to acknowledge, ratify, or recognize as valid **[v]** cast off **[v]** The woman **repudiated** the divorce settlement"**repudiate** a debt""She **repudiated** the accusations" To *repudiate* something is to reject it, or to refuse to accept or support it. If you grow up religious, but *repudiate* all organized religion as an adult, you might start spending holidays at the movies, or just going to work. This verb usually refers to rejecting something that has authority, such as a legal contract, doctrine, or claim. In connection with debts or other obligations, *repudiate* is used in the specialized sense ""to refuse to recognize or pay."" If referring to a child or a lover, *repudiate* is used in the sense ""to disown, cast off."" This verb is derived from Latin *repudiare* ""to put away, divorce.""

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Rescind ## Footnote cancel officially **[v]** If get a call saying a company has decided to *rescind* your job offer, it's back to the classifieds for you. *Rescind* is an official reversal. Things that are *rescinded:* policies, court decisions, regulations, and official statements. What all these examples have in common is that they are on the record. Also, *rescind* usually refers to promises instead of tangible objects. You can't *rescind* a shirt a friend has borrowed from you, but you can *rescind* your offer to loan them your jeans.

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Resolution ## Footnote finding a solution to a problem **[n]** analysis into clear-cut components **[n]** (music) a dissonant chord is followed by a consonant chord **[n]** the trait of being resolute **[n]** they never did achieve a final **resolution** of their differences"it was his unshakeable **resolution** to finish the work""he always wrote down his New Year's **resolutions**" The noun *resolution* has a few related meanings having to do with being firmly determined about something. If you lack determination, you'll never fulfill your New Year's *resolutions*. *Resolution* is the noun form of the verb *resolve*, which comes from Latin *resolvere*, ""to loosen, undo, settle."" We can still see this meaning in *resolution*, in the sense of ""an explanation"" or ""a solution""; when a problem, conflict or mystery reaches its resolution, it has been ""undone,"" so to speak. Another common meaning is ""determination, resolve"": ""Jose approached the task with *resolution*."" A related sense is ""a decision to do something"": ""My *resolution* is to go to the gym three times a week.""

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Resolve ## Footnote find the solution **[v]** make clearly visible **[v]** understand the meaning of **[v]** he **resolved** never to drink again"can this image be **resolved**?" To *resolve* is to settle or make a decision about something — often formal. A college's board of directors might resolve to recruit more minority students. As a noun, *resolve* refers to a strong determination to do something. If you make a New Year's *resolution* to exercise every day, you'll need plenty of resolve to stick with your program. The verb descends from Middle English *resolven* ""to dissolve,"" from Latin *resolvere* ""to untie."" In English, the obsolete sense of ""to dissolve"" can be seen in this line from Shakespeare: ""O, that this too too solid flesh would melt, thaw, and *resolve* itself into a dew.""

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Resolve ## Footnote find the solution **[v]** make clearly visible **[v]** understand the meaning of **[v]** he **resolved** never to drink again"can this image be **resolved**?" To *resolve* is to settle or make a decision about something — often formal. A college's board of directors might resolve to recruit more minority students. As a noun, *resolve* refers to a strong determination to do something. If you make a New Year's *resolution* to exercise every day, you'll need plenty of resolve to stick with your program. The verb descends from Middle English *resolven* ""to dissolve,"" from Latin *resolvere* ""to untie."" In English, the obsolete sense of ""to dissolve"" can be seen in this line from Shakespeare: ""O, that this too too solid flesh would melt, thaw, and *resolve* itself into a dew.""

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Reticent ## Footnote reluctant to draw attention to yourself **[adj]** cool and formal in manner **[adj]** temperamentally disinclined to talk **[adj]** *Reticent* means either quiet or restrained. If you're *reticent* about your feelings, you like to keep them to yourself, and you're probably quiet in rowdy groups where everyone is talking over each other. The original meaning of *reticent* describes someone who doesn’t like to talk. Be careful in your context, however. *Reticent* can refer to someone who is restrained and formal, but it can also refer to someone who doesn’t want to draw attention to herself or who prefers seclusion to other people. Don’t confuse *reticent* with *reluctant,* which means unwilling.

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Reverent ## Footnote feeling or showing profound respect or veneration **[adj]** showing great reverence for god **[adj]** maintained a **reverent** silence When you have great awe and respect for someone or something, and you show it by respectfully worshiping that person, thing, deity, or musical group, you are being *reverent*. Originally, the word *reverent* was used only in religious contexts, but now it works when people are just acting like they’re in a religious setting (even if the object of their worship is a sports star or political pundit). People are occasionally *reverent* in regard to antique cars, supermodels, spelling bee champions and giant TV screens. *Reverent* is related to the verb *revere*, which is also about having or showing respect for someone or something.

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Rococo ## Footnote having excessive asymmetrical ornamentation **[adj]** fanciful but graceful asymmetric ornamentation in art and architecture that originated in France in the 18th century **[n]** an exquisite gilded **rococo** mirror *Rococo* describes a very ornate style originating in Europe. It you love tons of decoration and fancy details, then you'll love the *rococo* style of architecture and music. Modern design is all simplicity: clean lines and no clutter. Rococo design — which came and went in Europe in the 1700s — is the opposite: it explodes with detail, ornament, patterns, and decoration. If something other than an actual work of design or music is described as *rococo*, it means wildly detailed, to the point of excess. They sat me next to Diana, who told me the whole rococo story of her divorce. Hours had passed before she even got to the part about the affair.

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Rubric ## Footnote category name **[n]** an authoritative rule of conduct or procedure **[n]** an explanation or definition of an obscure word in a text **[n]** adorn with ruby red color **[v]** it is usually discussed under the **rubric** of `functional obesity' A *rubric* is a heading or a category in a chart, or a rule of conduct. A teacher's grading *rubrics* may include participation, homework completion, tests, quizzes, and papers. A *rubric* can also mean a rule or a procedure. If you use ""might makes right"" as the rubric for the formation of a list of classroom rules, you'll have a different-feeling classroom culture than if your rubric is ""everyone deserves respect.""

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Ruse ## Footnote a deceptive maneuver (especially to avoid capture) **[n]** Movie bank robbers always seem to pull some kind of *ruse*, a deceptive trick or tactic like hiding the money underneath the bank while they drive off in the getaway car to avoid capture by the police. You'd use a *ruse* if you were up to something sneaky and were trying to get away with it without being discovered. The wife planning a surprise birthday party for her husband could send him out to the supermarket as a *ruse*, a trick so she could sneak one hundred of his closest friends into the house without him noticing.

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Sage ## Footnote a mentor in spiritual and philosophical topics who is renowned for profound wisdom **[n]** any of various plants of the genus Salvia; a cosmopolitan herb **[n]** Use the word *sage* for someone or something wise and judicious. Thanks to the *sage* advice of your friend, you didn't write your teacher an angry e-mail! Although you might think of a wizard when you hear the word *sage*, really it means a wise man. Today you see it used to refer to someone who has insight in a particular field. If someone is a policy sage, he knows just what advice to give politicians to make them understand the issue and respond successfully to it. In a totally unrelated use, there is also a plant called sage that is useful in home remedies and cooking.

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Salacious ## Footnote suggestive of or tending to moral looseness **[adj]** characterized by lust **[adj]** **salacious** limericks"a **salacious** rooster of a little man" Something *salacious* is full of juicy details — but they're the kind of raunchy, lusty, dirty details you probably don't want to hear. Implying a certain kind of moral looseness, *salacious* is often used to describe nasty gossip, obscene reports and steamy tales. Salacious things are usually not fit for general public consumption and probably need some kind of parental guidance warning. Think of the tawdry accounts of some politician's affair with a staffer, or a particularly sex-filled reality show on TV.

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Salubrious ## Footnote promoting health; healthful **[adj]** favorable to health of mind or body **[adj]** the **salubrious** mountain air and water"- C.B.Davis""not the most **salubrious** campsite""one of the less **salubrious** suburbs" *Salubrious* is a fancy way to describe something that’s good for you or is generally favorable to mind or body, but it need not be limited to describing healthy foods or liquids. We salute each other with the cheer, ""To your health!"" as we chug down something that probably isn’t that good for us. But if it were salubrious, it would be. The two words, *salute* and *salubrious* stem from the same *salus*, meaning ""welfare, health." Maybe next time, raise a glass of wheatgrass instead of vino!

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Salutary ## Footnote tending to promote physical well-being; beneficial to health **[adj]** the **salutary** influence of pure air Use *salutary* to describe something that's good for your health, like the *salutary* benefits of exercise, laughter, and getting enough sleep every night. When you look at the word *salutary*, you might expect it to have something to do with showing respect to military personnel, perhaps by saluting. In fact, *salutary* and *salute* do share a Latin root: *salus*, which means ""good health."" When you salute someone, or say ""Salud!"" before clinking glasses and taking a first sip, you're essentially giving your salutary wish — in other words, hoping a person enjoys good health.

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Sanction ## Footnote official permission or approval **[n]** formal and explicit approval **[n]** the act of final authorization **[n]** a mechanism of social control for enforcing a society's standards **[n]** give authority or permission to **[v]** it had the **sanction** of the church *Sanction* has two nearly opposite meanings: to sanction can be to approve of something, but it can also mean to punish, or speak harshly to. Likewise, a sanction can be a punishment or approval. Very confusing––the person who invented this word should be publicly sanctioned! See if you can guess the meaning of sanction in the following contexts. Before invading Iraq, the US and its allies first imposed sanctions on the country, refusing to supply the country with much-needed trade items. Did you guess sanction=punishment? You were right! But by trading with China at the same time, the US quietly sanctioned that nation's known instances of human rights abuses. Did you guess sanction=approval? You're right again!

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Sardonic ## Footnote disdainfully or ironically humorous; scornful and mocking **[adj]** his rebellion is the bitter, **sardonic** laughter of all great satirists"- Frank Schoenberner" If someone is being scornful and mocking in a humorous way, call her *sardonic*. If you want to write comic sketches for late-night talk shows, work on being *sardonic*. *Sardonic* comes from the Greek adjective *Sardonios*, which actually describes a plant from a place called Sardinia that supposedly made your face contort into a horrible grin...right before you died from its poison. The Greeks used *sardonic* for laughter, but we only use it when someone's humor is also mocking or ironic.

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Sartorial ## Footnote of or relating to a tailor or to tailoring **[adj]** of or relating to the sartorius muscle **[adj]** If it's the day before a big event and you have no idea what to wear and nothing in your closet is going to cut it, you are facing a *sartorial* dilemma — one that pertains to clothing, fashion or dressing. *Sartorial* comes from the Modern Latin word *sartor* which means ""tailor,"" literally ""one who patches and mends."" In English the adjectives *sartorial* and *sartorially* are used to refer to any matter pertaining to the consideration of clothing or fashion. The root word *sartor* has also made its way into the field of biology. The sartorius — a muscle in the leg and the longest muscle in the human body — gets its name because it is used when crossing the legs, also known as the "tailor's position.""

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Satiate ## Footnote fill to satisfaction **[v]** overeat or eat immodestly; make a pig of oneself **[v]** supplied (especially fed) to satisfaction **[adj]** If you just can't get enough popcorn, even the jumbo tub at the movie theater may not be enough to *satiate*, or satisfy, your desire. *Satiate* is often used in situations in which a thirst, craving, or need is satisfied. However, when *satiate* is used to describe eating, it can take on a more negative, or even disgusted, tone. If you comment that the diners at the world's largest all-you-can eat buffet were satiated, you might not mean that they were merely satisfied. You could be implying that they've been gluttons, and that they are now overstuffed with fried chicken wings and mac and cheese.

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Saturate ## Footnote infuse or fill completely **[v]** cause (a chemical compound, vapour, solution, magnetic material) to unite with the greatest possible amount of another substance **[v]** The verb *saturate* means to cause something to be fully soaked to the point where it can't take on anything else. A heavy rainstorm can *saturate* the ground, leaving puddles on the lawn because no more water can be absorbed. The word *saturate* comes from the Latin word *saturatus*, meaning ""to fill full, sate, drench."" *Saturate* is often used to describe the aftermath of a big rainstorm, but other things can be saturated as well. If you're a workaholic, you might saturate all your free time with work, leaving no time to spend with your family. In chemistry, *saturate* describes causing one substance, like a solution, to take on the greatest amount of another substance.

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Saturnine ## Footnote bitter or scornful **[adj]** showing a brooding ill humor **[adj]** the face was **saturnine** and swarthy, and the sensual lips...twisted with disdain"- Oscar Wilde"""a **saturnine**, almost misanthropic young genius"- Bruce Bliven" Medieval alchemists ascribed to the planet Saturn a gloomy and slow character. When people are called *saturnine*, it means they are like the planet––gloomy, mean, scowling. Not exactly the life of the party. *Saturnine* is a word you don't hear often nowadays, though you probably know people with saturnine dispositions. The ultimate saturnine character in literature is Heathcliff––and for clarification's sake, that would be the brooding, bitter, obsessed hero of ""Wuthering Heights,"" not the lovably pudgy cat of comic-strip fame.

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Satyr ## Footnote ``` one of a class of woodland deities; attendant on Bacchus; identified with Roman fauns **[n]** man with strong sexual desires **[n]** ``` In classical mythology, *satyrs* were companions to Pan, a fertility god, and Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy. As you might guess, *satyrs* were not known for their mild-mannered ways: Like their patrons, they were excessively fond of women, drink, and song. In Greek art, the satyr was depicted as a man with the ears and tale of a horse. Roman artists emphasized this creature's relationship to the goat-god Pan by giving the satyr a goat's ears, horns, and haunches. In both cases, the satyr's animal aspect symbolized his immoderate appetites. This noun can also be used metaphorically for a man whose sexual desire is stronger than his sense of decency.

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Savor ## Footnote the taste experience when a savoury condiment is taken into the mouth **[n]** have flavor; taste of something **[v]** give taste to **[v]** taste appreciatively **[v]** derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in **[v]** **savor** the soup Whether it’s a feeling of joy or a piece of pecan pie — when you *savor* something, you enjoy it to the fullest. When you savor something, you enjoy it so much that you want to make it last forever. With that in mind, *savor* carries a connotation of doing something slowly. If you savor that flourless chocolate tart, then you eat it slowly, bit by bit, deliberately picking every last crumb off the plate. The word is often applied to eating, but you can savor any pleasurable experience, whether it’s the winning touchdown or your moment in the spotlight.

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Schematic ## Footnote represented in simplified or symbolic form **[adj]** diagram of an electrical or mechanical system **[n]** Use the adjective *schematic* to describe a drawing that's very simple and symbolic. That drawing your cousin made of a house with a pointy roof, smiling stick figures, and a round yellow sun? Very *schematic*. The word *schematic* can apply to ideas as well as drawings. In this case, *schematic* describes an overly simple interpretation of something complex, like a work of literature or a detailed plan for social change. Think of it like the drawing of a boxy house and stick figures, only applied to ideas — it's an outline of something that may not capture all the important details.

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Secrete ## Footnote generate and separate from cells or bodily fluids **[v]** place out of sight; keep secret **[v]** **secrete** digestive juices"The money was **secreted** from his children" *Secrete* is all about secrets. It means both ""to hide"" and ""to release."" When you squeeze a lemon, it *secretes* juice. When you stuff your money in a mattress, you *secrete* it there. It's easy to remember that *secrete's* all about secrets when you see the word secret inside *secrete*. Imagine the first person who squeezed a lemon and secreted the juice. Probably felt like he'd discovered a secret stash of citrus goodness. If he was greedy, maybe he gathered all the lemons he could find and secreted them away in a box so no one else would learn the secret of the juice-secretion.

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Sedition ## Footnote an illegal action inciting resistance to lawful authority and tending to cause the disruption or overthrow of the government **[n]** * Sedition* is the illegal act of inciting people to resist or rebel against the government in power. It's what the southern states did at the start of the Civil War. * Sedition* is the rebellious talk and encouragement that might lead to a mutiny, and can be charged as a crime, like treason. The Alien and *Sedition* Acts passed into law in the late 1700s were challenged by none other than Thomas Jefferson as a violation of Americans' First Amendment rights to free speech. The *Sedition* Act quietly expired a few years later but was essentially replaced in the early 1900s by what is called the Espionage Act, which was later repealed as well. Proving *sedition* can become a murky business. When should the expression of one's activism be considered ""free speech"" and when should it be considered *sedition*?

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Sedulous ## Footnote marked by care and persistent effort **[adj]** **sedulous** pursuit of legal and moral principles A *sedulous* person is someone who works hard and doesn't give up easily. If you make repeated and *sedulous* attempts to fix a leaky pipe and it only makes things worse, it might be time to go online and find the number of a plumber. There are a couple of words that basically mean the same thing as *sedulous* but are a little more common, namely *assiduous*, *painstaking*, and *diligent*. Like *sedulous*, all of these adjectives can be turned into adverbs by adding the suffix *ly*: ""He *assiduously* tried to fix the pipe, but to no avail.""

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Seismic ## Footnote subject to or caused by an earthquake or earth vibration **[adj]** For the ancient Greeks, ""seismos"" meant an earthquake. Later on, when the study of earthquakes became a science, anything *seismic* meant anything related to the study of the pressures in the Earth's crust. The English language has a long and proud tradition of stealing scientific words and applying them in all sorts of ways that scientists probably wish they didn't: Darwinian, tempestuous, evolutionary — to name but three. It's the same with *seismic,* which is now far more likely to be applied to political or psychological turmoil than anything to do with the earth opening up and molten hot lava spewing out.

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Sensual ## Footnote marked by the appetites and passions of the body **[adj]** sexually exciting or gratifying **[adj]** a **sensual** delight in eating"music is the only **sensual** pleasure without vice""**sensual** excesses" * Sensual* means physically pleasing. It often is used in a sexual context, but is not exclusively sexual in meaning. * Sensual* has to do with the five senses, but it comes with a hint of lewdness, a suggestion of sex. Although you could have a sensual meal or experience that doesn’t involve romance, if you want a word that refers to the five senses without any unsavory connotations, use its cousin *sensuous*.

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Sensuous ## Footnote taking delight in beauty **[adj]** the **sensuous** joy from all things fair Anything that is pleasing to the senses can be called *sensuous*. The feel of a soft cashmere sweater on your skin, the taste of dark chocolate, even the smell of your favorite person — all of these can be *sensuous* experiences. *Sensuous* describes anything that feels, tastes, smells, looks, or sounds good. Eating delicious food or relaxing in a warm bath are sensuous activities. But something intellectually satisfying, like doing a crossword puzzle or solving a math problem, is not exactly sensuous, even if you really like doing it. Use *sensuous* to describe stuff that makes your five senses happy.

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Servile ## Footnote submissive or fawning in attitude or behavior **[adj]** relating to or involving slaves or appropriate for slaves or servants **[adj]** spoke in a **servile** tone"the incurably **servile** housekeeper""**servile** tasks such as floor scrubbing and barn work" If you want to get someone to like you, don't offer to fetch them a Coke, rub their feet, or do their homework. They won't like you any better, and your *servile* attitude will only cost you their respect. To remember *servile*, just think of the word *servant*––they both derive from the Latin *servus* ""slave."" In fact, *servile* also means anything characteristic of a slave. ""After winning the lottery, the ex-slave shed first his servile clothes, later his servile manner. The transformation was complete.""

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Sextant ## Footnote a measuring instrument for measuring the angular distance between celestial objects; resembles an octant **[n]** a unit of angular distance equal to 60 degrees **[n]** A *sextant* is a tool for measuring the angles between heavenly bodies — the kind found in outer space. Used as a navigational tool out at sea, it helps determine a ship's longitude and latitude. There is nothing sexy about a sextant, unless you're a sailor. Even then, in today's world of sophisticated instrumentation, it's considered quaint and old-fashioned. The noun *sextant* dates back to the late 16th century, from the Latin word *sextans*, meaning ""sixth part."" The sextant uses a graduated arc of 60° (there's the *six* reference) for measuring the altitude of the planets and stars.

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Shard ## Footnote a broken piece of a brittle artifact **[n]** If you break a mirror, the thin sharp pieces you want to avoid are *shards*. A *shard* is simply a broken piece of metal, glass, stone, or pottery with sharp edges. Don't confuse *shard* with shred, meaning to cut into strips, or chard, a leafy green vegetable. You could use a shard of metal to shred chard into salad, but be careful that you don't cut your hands to shreds!

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Sidereal ## Footnote of or relating to the stars or constellations **[adj]** (of divisions of time) determined by daily motion of the stars **[adj]** **sidereal** bodies"the **sidereal** system""**sidereal** time" Far out, man. I mean really far out — as in related to the distant stars of the universe. That's what *sidereal* means. *Sidereal* is an adjective that first popped up in the 17th century, and stems from the Latin word *sidereus*, which means ""star."" Anything that's sidereal has something to do with stars and constellations. And if you measure the days and weeks by the movement of the stars across the sky, that's called sidereal astronomy or sidereal time. But if you've got someplace to be, you'd be better off with a good calendar and a wristwatch.

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Simian ## Footnote relating to or resembling an ape **[adj]** an ape or monkey **[n]** **simian** features As a noun, a *simian* is a monkey or ape. Something monkey- or ape-like can be described using the adjective *simian*. So: something can be *simian* without being a *simian*. Got it? The first syllable in *simian* rhymes with *dim* and gets the accent: ""SIM-ee-an."" This is a case in which the adjective form came before the noun. How? *Simian* comes from the Greek word *simos*, meaning ""snub-nosed, bent upward."" It wasn't until the late nineteenth century that this description became the label for those animals whose noses *simian* describes.

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Simile ## Footnote a figure of speech that expresses a resemblance between things of different kinds (usually formed with `like' or `as') **[n]** Use the noun *simile* when describing a comparison between two fundamentally different things, such as: ""His voice was smooth, like butter in a warm pan."" A *simile* (pronounced SIM-uh-lee) is a comparison that usually uses the words ""like"" or ""as"": ""Me without a mic is like a beat without a snare,"" rapped Lauryn Hill in the song ""How Many Mics."" The word comes from *similus*, a Latin word meaning ""the same."" A simile is different from a *metaphor*, in which the comparison is less explicit, as in Shakespeare's line ""All the world's a stage.""

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Sinecure ## Footnote an office that involves minimal duties **[n]** a benefice to which no spiritual or pastoral duties are attached **[n]** If you have a cushy job — one that pays, but involves minimal work — then you have a *sinecure*. ""Because he was the brother of the CEO, he was offered a *sinecure* in the company: he showed up each day and collected a pay check, but others actually did his work."" The noun *sinecure* comes from the Latin root words *sine cura* meaning ""without care."" It originally was used to describe a church position that did not include caring for the souls of parishioners, but that meaning is considered archaic now. The word is now usually associated with political appointments.

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Singular ## Footnote being a single and separate person or thing **[adj]** composed of one member, set, or kind **[adj]** the single one of its kind **[adj]** unusual or striking **[adj]** beyond or deviating from the usual or expected **[adj]** can the **singular** person be understood apart from his culture?""every fact in the world might be **singular**...unlike any other fact and sole of its kind"-William James""a **singular** example" If something is extraordinary, remarkable, or one of a kind, you can say it is *singular*. A *singular* opportunity to sing onstage with a rock star is a remarkable opportunity. Seeing the *single* inside *singular* can help you understand its meaning in the sense of one. In grammar, *singular* means one, as opposed to plural, which means more than one. But *singular’s* not always––or singularly––about being unique. Walking through a foggy cemetery might give you a singular feeling––or a feeling that’s odd and peculiar––that ghosts could possibly be real.

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Sinuous ## Footnote curved or curving in and out **[adj]** *Sinuous* means winding or curvy. If you get lost on a *sinuous* mountain path, you'll need a compass or a GPS to figure out which direction leads back to camp. The adjective *sinuous* comes from the Latin word *sinus*, which means to curve or bend. If you have a sinuous body, then you have lots of curves. Snakes use sinuous movements to travel. Live Oak trees have particularly sinuous branches. We usually use *sinuous* to talk about physical shapes of bodies or pathways, but you could also describe someone's logic as sinuous if it wanders all over the place when they're trying to explain something.

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Skeptic ## Footnote someone who habitually doubts accepted beliefs **[n]** A *skeptic* is a doubter. The one who can't be convinced. The guy who's ready to poke holes in the most brilliant argument you've ever made. For every great idea, there are probably 100 skeptics waiting to shoot it down. These are the naysayers that didn't think rock music would last, questioned the usefulness of seat belts, and even wondered if the internet would catch on. Coming from the Greek word *skeptikos*, which means ""thoughtful or inquiring,"" it's no surprise that a skeptic is someone who asks a lot of questions — and isn't easily convinced, even by the smartest answers.

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Sobriety ## Footnote the state of being sober and not intoxicated by alcohol **[n]** a manner that is serious and solemn **[n]** moderation in or abstinence from alcohol or other drugs **[n]** abstaining from excess **[n]** *Sobriety* is the state of being sober, which can mean either not intoxicated or being solemn. If he takes a drink, an alcoholic ends a stretch of *sobriety.* You might note *sobriety* in the stands when your team is losing. When thinking about *sobriety*, think about the Puritans, and the way they kept the Sabbath. For them, even laughing on a Sunday was seen as an excessive display. Known for sobriety, they preferred a day marked by prayer and contemplation. It goes without saying that they frowned upon the consumption of any form of alcohol––favoring sobriety of both kinds.

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Sodden ## Footnote wet through and through; thoroughly wet **[adj]** the speaker's **sodden** collar Pull out your galoshes. When it's been raining for days, there are puddles everywhere, and the grass is thoroughly soaked, it's safe to say the ground is *sodden*. Coming from the Middle English word for ""boiled,"" *sodden* is certainly closely tied with lots and lots of liquid. Saturated, soppy and soaking, anything that's sodden is drenched to the core and probably a mess. That goes for people, too: You can call someone *sodden* if they're acting stupid or dull, especially if they've had too much to drink.

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Solicitous ## Footnote full of anxiety and concern **[adj]** showing hovering attentiveness **[adj]** **solicitous** parents"**solicitous** about the future""**solicitous** about her health" When you hear the word *solicitous*, think of your mom — attentive, caring and concerned. It's nice when your waiter gives you good service, but if he or she is *solicitous*, the hovering might annoy you. *Solicitous* comes from the Latin roots *sollus* ""entire"" and *citus* ""set in motion."" If someone is solicitous, they are entirely set in motion caring for you. Your neighbors are solicitous if they try to help your family out all the time. Use this word too if you're eager to do something. A good student will be solicitous to appear interested in what the teacher says — even when it's not that interesting.

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Soliloquy ## Footnote speech you make to yourself **[n]** a (usually long) dramatic speech intended to give the illusion of unspoken reflections **[n]** Ever see someone talking to himself while on a stage? That's what you call a *soliloquy* — a character's speech voicing his or her own thoughts as if to himself. Shakespeare's plays are full of *soliloquies*. The noun, *soliloquy,* comes from the Latin roots, *solus* ""alone"" plus *loqui* ""speak"" meaning ""a talking to oneself."" A soliloquy is a speech a character gives of his thoughts and reflections. Some of the most famous lines in drama are taken from soliloquies. Take ""to be or not to be..."" and ""Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow, Creeps in this petty pace..."" as two examples of lines from soliloquies that have tortured high school students around the globe. Not the Globe Theater, Silly.

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Solvent ## Footnote capable of meeting financial obligations **[adj]** a liquid substance capable of dissolving other substances **[n]** a statement that solves a problem or explains how to solve the problem **[n]** the **solvent** does not change its state in forming a solution *Solvent*’s meaning changes pretty drastically depending on its part of speech. As a noun, *solvent* is either a certain kind of chemical or an idea that solves a problem. As an adjective, *solvent* describes someone who's got cash on hand. A solvent dissolves other chemicals, which is why it's also easy to remember: *solvent* is a chemical used to dis*solve* other chemicals. The adjective *solvent*, on the other hand, comes from a French verb that means ""loosen."" In these tough economic times, only those banks that are solvent are in a position to loosen the cash flow and start lending money. No cash? You're not solvent.

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Somatic ## Footnote affecting or characteristic of the body as opposed to the mind or spirit **[adj]** a **somatic** symptom or somatic illness * Somatic* is a fancy word that just means dealing with the body. You may be tired of hearing your great-grandfather's *somatic* complaints, but give him a break - his body has been working for 80 years! * Soma* means body in Latin, so *somatic* means of the body and is most often used in connection with one's health. You may be more familiar with the related word, psychosomatic, which describes a physical condition or illness caused by the mind rather than a virus or a sprain. If you don't want to go to school so much that you begin to feel sick, that is psychosomatic. But sometimes, your somatic symptoms mean you really do have a cold!

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Soporific ## Footnote sleep inducing **[adj]** inducing mental lethargy **[adj]** a drug that induces sleep **[n]** Something that is *soporific* is sleep-inducing. Certain medicines, but also extreme coziness, can have a *soporific* effect. In the 1680’s, *soporific*, which doubles as both adjective and noun, was formed from the French *soporifique*. That word, in turn, came from the Latin *sopor* "deep sleep." Beloved *Peter Rabbit* author Beatrix Potter once noted that, "It is said that the effect of eating too much lettuce is '*soporific*'.""

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Sordid ## Footnote foul and run-down and repulsive **[adj]** morally degraded **[adj]** unethical or dishonest **[adj]** meanly avaricious and mercenary **[adj]** **sordid** shantytowns""the **sordid** details of his orgies stank under his very nostrils"- James Joyce""a **sordid** political campaign" Describe a person's actions as *sordid* if they are so immoral or unethical that they seem dirty. Think of the worst parts of a bad soap opera! *Sordid* comes from the Latin word *sordes* ""dirt."" Something that is filthy or run down such as a neighborhood or someone's living conditions can be called sordid, but it is usually used figuratively to mean immoral or dishonest. If you want to hear the sordid details of someone's actions, it's because they were extremely dishonest or sexually immoral and also because they were supposed to be kept a secret.

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Specious ## Footnote plausible but false **[adj]** based on pretense; deceptively pleasing **[adj]** a **specious** claim Use *specious* to describe an argument that seems to be good, correct, or logical, but is not so. We live on the earth, therefore the earth must be the center of the universe has been proven to be a *specious* theory of the solar system. *Specious* is pronounced ""SPEE-shuhs."" Something that is *specious* is attractive in a deceptive way, and if you follow the word's etymology, you'll see why. In Middle English, this adjective meant ""attractive,"" from Latin *speci?sus* ""showy, beautiful,"" from *speci?s* ""appearance, kind, sort."" Latin *speci?s* is also the source of English *species*.

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Spectrum ## Footnote a broad range of related objects or values or qualities or ideas or activities **[n]** an ordered array of the components of an emission or wave **[n]** A *spectrum* is a broad range of similar things or qualities. Like the wide *spectrum* of political beliefs in this country, ranging anywhere from super conservative to uber-liberal and everything in between. Our modern definition of *spectrum* started out in the 1600s, when scientists used it to refer to the band of colors formed by a beam of light, like a rainbow. In physics, it’s a word that describes the distribution of something, like energy or atomic particles. We still use those scientific meanings today, but *spectrum* can also apply to non-science related groupings or ranges of related things.

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Spendthrift ## Footnote someone who spends money prodigally **[n]** recklessly wasteful **[adj]** A *spendthrift* person is reckless and wasteful with his money. *Spendthrifts* who like to take you out to nice lunches are good people to be friends with, but it's generally a bad way to handle your own bank account. *Spendthrift* was created by sticking two opposite words together: *spend* and *thrift*, which means "savings, wealth." So a *spendthrift* spends all of his savings. Spendthrift people are the worst nightmare of retirement planners and Scrooges all over the globe. So unless you want to be called a spendthrift, think twice about your next purchase.

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Sporadic ## Footnote recurring in scattered and irregular or unpredictable instances **[adj]** a city subjected to **sporadic** bombing raids *Sporadic* is an adjective that you can use to refer to something that happens or appears often, but not constantly or regularly. The mailman comes every day but the plumber visits are *sporadic*––he comes as needed. A specialized use of *sporadic* is to describe a disease that appears only occasionally in random cases, and is therefore not an *epidemic*. English borrowed the word *sporadic* from Greek *sporadikós* ""scattered."" A very near synonym is *intermittent*.

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Staccato ## Footnote separating the notes; in music **[adv]** (music) marked by or composed of disconnected parts or sounds; cut short crisply **[adj]** play this **staccato**, please"**staccato** applause""a **staccato** command" *Staccato* is a musical term for notes that are played quickly and sharply. It can also refer to anything characterized by similar beats, such as the *staccato* clacking of a woman's high heels on a tile floor. There is nothing quite so pleasant as lying in bed on a Saturday morning listening to the staccato tapping of rain on the roof, knowing that everything you had planned will now be canceled. Other staccato sounds are not so pleasant––your neighbor learning to play the drums, a jack hammer right outside your window.

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Stanch ## Footnote stop the flow of a liquid **[v]** Use the verb *stanch* to describe stopping a liquid from spreading, like a bandage that *stanches* bleeding or thick towels that *stanch* the flow of water across the kitchen floor when you drop a full glass of water. The vowel sound in *stanch* most frequently sounds like *on*: ""stonch."" *Stanch* can also be pronounced to rhyme with *branch*. Though it's a verb mostly commonly associated with keeping blood from flowing from a wound, the origin is likely the Latin word *stagnum*, meaning ""pond, pool."" This word is related to *stagnate*, describing water that has no movement.

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Stentorian ## Footnote used of the voice **[adj]** The adjective *stentorian* describes a booming voice. If you're teaching a group of unruly kids, you'll need to practice a *stentorian* voice to be heard above the din. The adjective *stentorian* comes from Greek mythology. Stentor was a herald in the Trojan War, mentioned in Homer's ""Iliad."" Homer wrote of brazen-voiced Stentor, whose cry was as loud as that of fifty men together. So anyone with a stentorian voice has a voice like the mythic Stentor. You can also use *stentorian* to describe a style of speaking that emphasizes boom and power.

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Stigma ## Footnote a symbol of disgrace or infamy **[n]** a skin lesion that is a diagnostic sign of some disease **[n]** the apical end of the style where deposited pollen enters the pistil **[n]** an external tracheal aperture in a terrestrial arthropod **[n]** If something has a negative association attached to it, call this a *stigma.* Bed-wetting can lead to a social *stigma* for a six year old, while chewing tobacco might have the same effect for a sixty year old. *Stigma,* from the Greek word of the same spelling meaning ""mark, puncture,"" came into English through Latin to mean a mark burned into the skin to signify disgrace. It did not take long for *stigma* to be used figuratively, as it is commonly used today, for the negative stereotype or reputation attached to something such as ""the *stigma* of divorce.""

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Stint ## Footnote supply sparingly and with restricted quantities **[v]** smallest American sandpiper **[n]** her **stint** as a lifeguard exhausted her The noun *stint* means a set amount of time in which you do something — often work of some sort. ""She served a *stint* in the army, followed by a *stint* in an office setting, before settling on a career as a lounge singer."" Unlike a project or vocation, a *stint* can refer to the stretch of time spent doing a particular job. You apply for a job, but you refer to your past *stint* in the Peace Corps. As a verb, *stint* means to be sparring or frugal, or restrict in a stingy manner (""to skimp""). ""The school board chose to make cuts at the administrative level, rather than *stint* on the children's education.""

Answer 310

Stint ## Footnote supply sparingly and with restricted quantities **[v]** smallest American sandpiper **[n]** her **stint** as a lifeguard exhausted her The noun *stint* means a set amount of time in which you do something — often work of some sort. ""She served a *stint* in the army, followed by a *stint* in an office setting, before settling on a career as a lounge singer."" Unlike a project or vocation, a *stint* can refer to the stretch of time spent doing a particular job. You apply for a job, but you refer to your past *stint* in the Peace Corps. As a verb, *stint* means to be sparring or frugal, or restrict in a stingy manner (""to skimp""). ""The school board chose to make cuts at the administrative level, rather than *stint* on the children's education.""

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Stipulate ## Footnote specify as a condition or requirement in a contract or agreement; make an express demand or provision in an agreement **[v]** make an oral contract or agreement in the verbal form of question and answer that is necessary to give it legal force **[v]** give a guarantee or promise of **[v]** The will **stipulates** that she can live in the house for the rest of her life"The contract **stipulates** the dates of the payments""They **stipulated** to release all the prisoners" To *stipulate* something means to demand that it be part of an agreement. So when you make a contract or deal, you can *stipulate* that a certain condition must be met. Anytime you draw up a legal agreement, you can stipulate a requirement that has to be met for that agreement to be complete. This stipulation might put some sort of limit on the agreement. For example, if you run a fencing company and offer a sale, you can stipulate that to get the sale price, the fence must be ordered by a certain date. Your customer, in turn, might stipulate that the work must be finished before the ground freezes.

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Stratified ## Footnote deposited or arranged in horizontal layers **[adj]** (used of society) socially hierarchical **[adj]** arranged in a sequence of grades or ranks **[adj]** **stratified** rock"American society is becoming increasingly **stratified**""**stratified** areas of the distribution" Use the adjective *stratified* to describe something with many layers, either physically (like the layers of your skin) or socially (a kingdom with the king at the top and peasants at the bottom). If you’ve ever studied geology, you’ve heard about strata: layers of sand, clay, and rock spread out one on top of the other. A lot of things can be described like that. The Amazon jungle is stratified — with massive trees up high and shrubbery below. The division between rich and poor people is an example of a stratified society. And when you spread peanut butter onto bread, and then add jelly on top of that, well, sure, that’s a stratified sandwich.

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Striated ## Footnote marked with stria or striations **[adj]** mark with striae or striations **[v]** If a field is plowed into furrows, it's *striated*––or, technically, it's marked with *striae*, which are stripes or grooves. When you see *striate*, think of stripes. When you draw a row of stripes in clay with the tines of a fork, you're *striating* it. A striated rock surface might show evidence of the movement of glaciers thousands of years ago. Striated muscle has a striped appearance.

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Stricture ## Footnote severe criticism **[n]** abnormal narrowing of a bodily canal or passageway **[n]** One meaning of *stricture* is a nasty criticism, while the other is a sharp contraction of a tube or canal in the body. Either meaning can mean great pain to the person experiencing the *stricture*. The noun *stricture* finds its roots in the Late Latin word *strict?ra*, which came from the stem *stringere*, ""to draw tightly."" You might remember that meaning by its relationship with the word *constrict*, meaning ""to tighten or draw in."" The additional meaning, that of "a critical remark," is often used in the plural form — like ""the critical *strictures* against cheating.""

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Strident ## Footnote unpleasantly loud and harsh **[adj]** conspicuously and offensively loud; given to vehement outcry **[adj]** being sharply insistent on being heard **[adj]** of speech sounds produced by forcing air through a constricted passage (as `f', `s', `z', or `th' in both `thin' and `then') **[adj]** **strident** demands"**strident** demands" Feminists are often characterized by people who don't like them as *strident*. *Strident* describes their voices, raised in anger, as loud and harsh. Being a *strident* feminist isn't very ladylike. But making less money than a man when you do the same work is worse. *Strident* is related to the Latin word *strix* ""screech owl."" This is a kind of owl that doesn't hoot. It screeches in a *strident* way. Don't confuse strident with *striding*, which means walking quickly, with a wide step. If you're angry at your brother, you might come striding into his room and begin making a strident case for why he has done you wrong.

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Strut ## Footnote to walk with a lofty proud gait, often in an attempt to impress others **[v]** a proud stiff pompous gait **[n]** brace consisting of a bar or rod used to resist longitudinal compression **[n]** He **struts** around like a rooster in a hen house When you *strut*, you walk with a proud swagger that has a little arrogance thrown in, like the prance of a running back who has just flown past the 250-pound linebackers and planted the ball in the end zone. You can't strut and be shy about it — when you strut, you know people are watching you. The big boss in a gangster film, a model on the runway, and the rap artist whose album has just gone platinum all know how to strut. The noun form of *strut* has a little less flash and refers to a vertical or horizontal support that holds something up, like the long steel bars holding up a building.

Answer 317

Strut ## Footnote to walk with a lofty proud gait, often in an attempt to impress others **[v]** a proud stiff pompous gait **[n]** brace consisting of a bar or rod used to resist longitudinal compression **[n]** He **struts** around like a rooster in a hen house When you *strut*, you walk with a proud swagger that has a little arrogance thrown in, like the prance of a running back who has just flown past the 250-pound linebackers and planted the ball in the end zone. You can't strut and be shy about it — when you strut, you know people are watching you. The big boss in a gangster film, a model on the runway, and the rap artist whose album has just gone platinum all know how to strut. The noun form of *strut* has a little less flash and refers to a vertical or horizontal support that holds something up, like the long steel bars holding up a building.

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Stultify ## Footnote deprive of strength or efficiency; make useless or worthless **[v]** cause to appear foolish **[v]** prove to be of unsound mind or demonstrate someone's incompetence **[v]** Their behavior **stultified** the boss's hard work"He **stultified** himself by contradicting himself and being inconsistent""nobody is legally allowed to **stultify** himself" When something *stultifies* you, it drains you of your energy, enthusiasm, or pleasure. A well-acted Shakespeare play can be a thrill. A poorly-acted one can *stultify* like nothing else. The verb *stultify* is sometimes used in place of ""bore"" or ""exhaust,"" but only if something is so boring or exhausting that it makes you feel as though you might just die. It's a very negative word. If you're in a relationship that's *stultifying*, you should find a way out. Relationships should make you feel more alive, not less. Constant construction noise can have a stultifying effect, leaving a person almost unable to function.

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Stupefy ## Footnote make dull or stupid or muddle with drunkenness or infatuation **[v]** make senseless or dizzy by or as if by a blow **[v]** be a mystery or bewildering to **[v]** Don't be embarrassed if the magician's tricks *stupefy* you. It means you're amazed. Who doesn't want to be stopped in his tracks sometimes? *Stupefy* looks a lot like *stupid*. But intelligence has nothing to do with being stupefied, which comes from Latin and means ""to make stunned."" Anyone can be stupefied by something scary, mysterious, or just plain remarkable. Think of tourists visiting New York City for the first time. They stare up at the skyscrapers, lost in wonder. Taking that moment to let themselves be amazed? Nothing stupid about it, unless they step on someone's foot, of course.

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Stygian ## Footnote dark and dismal as of the rivers Acheron and Styx in Hades **[adj]** hellish **[adj]** upon those roseate lips a **Stygian** hue"-Wordsworth"""Hence loathed Melancholy.../In **Stygian** cave forlorn"- Milton"

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Subpoena ## Footnote a writ issued by court authority to compel the attendance of a witness at a judicial proceeding; disobedience may be punishable as a contempt of court **[n]** serve or summon with a subpoena **[v]** The witness and her records were **subpoenaed** A *subpoena* is a document that requires its recipient to appear in court as a witness. If you receive a *subpoena*, it doesn't mean you've done anything wrong; it just means you may have information that's needed by the court. *Subpoena* can also be a verb: You can subpoena someone by giving them a subpoena. If you receive a subpoena but fail to carry out its instructions, you're in big trouble. This fact is suggested by the Latin roots of this word: the prefix *sub-* means ""under"" and *poena* means ""penalty."" One nice thing about a subpoena is that it's not a summons; if you get one of those, it means you're being sued.

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Subside ## Footnote sink to a lower level or form a depression **[v]** descend into or as if into some soft substance or place **[v]** sink down or precipitate **[v]** wear off or die down **[v]** the valleys **subside**"She **subsided** into the chair""the mud **subsides** when the waters become calm" To *subside* is to die down or become less violent, like rough ocean waves after a storm has passed (or your seasickness, if you happened to be sailing on that ocean). *Subside* comes from the Latin prefix *sub-* (meaning ""down"") and the Latin verb *sidere* (meaning ""to settle""). *Subside* is often used when a negative situation has improved significantly. For example, violence, disease, and unemployment can all subside. Here's hoping that they do.

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Substantiate ## Footnote establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts **[v]** represent in bodily form **[v]** solidify, firm, or strengthen **[v]** make real or concrete; give reality or substance to **[v]** The painting **substantiates** the feelings of the artist"The president's trip will **substantiate** good relations with the former enemy country""our ideas must be **substantiated** into actions" To *substantiate* is to give support to a claim. We’d really like to believe in the Tooth Fairy; however, more evidence is needed to *substantiate* her existence (besides that quarter in your pocket). *Substantiate* is related to the word *substantial*, which means ""solid."" So, to substantiate a claim is to make it solid or believable. If the evidence given in support of an argument is weak and unconvincing, that evidence can be described as insubstantial. Of course, in special cases like the Tooth Fairy, having substantial evidence doesn’t seem to matter; fans just keep on believing.

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Substantive ## Footnote having a firm basis in reality and being therefore important, meaningful, or considerable **[adj]** being on topic and prompting thought **[adj]** defining rights and duties as opposed to giving the rules by which rights and duties are established **[adj]** any word or group of words functioning as a noun **[n]** **substantive** law When you talk about *substantive* change, you mean change that really makes a difference. After a *substantive* discussion, you will have an in depth understanding of what you are talking about. When something is *substantive*, there is a lot of there there, be it meaning or volume of things. The word brings a serious tone. While it is often used to talk about problems and their solutions, a big steak dinner could be called *substantive* as could a very long piece of writing. In any case, you use it when there is a lot of *substance* involved.

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Subsume ## Footnote contain or include **[v]** consider (an instance of something) as part of a general rule or principle **[v]** This new system **subsumes** the old one * Subsume* means to absorb or include. A successful company might *subsume* a failing competitor through a merger, or love may *subsume* you in the early stages of a romance. * Subsume* is a verb that comes from the Latin words *sub*, which means "from below," and *sumere*, which means "take." So *subsume* means "to take from below," like a sneak attack by some kind of deep-sea creature. Sailors and scuba divers should beware of monsters from the blackest depths waiting to subsume them.

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Subversive ## Footnote in opposition to a civil authority or government **[adj]** a radical supporter of political or social revolution **[n]** You might want to call someone *subversive* if they are sneakily trying to undermine something, from the social structure of your high school to an entire system of government. You can use *subversive* as a noun or an adjective without changing it one whit. Note the prefix *sub* meaning ""underneath"" with the remainder coming from the Latin *vertere* ""to turn."" Think about a subversive as a sneaky kind of revolutionary who tries to turn the system from underneath. Art or literature is considered subversive if it attempts to undermine the morals and traditions of a society.

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Succor ## Footnote assistance in time of difficulty **[n]** help in a difficult situation **[v]** *Succor* is relief or help. If you've just woken up in the midst of a lion's den, wearing nothing but raw meat pajamas — sounds like you could use some *succor*! In archaic times, *succor* meant a reinforcement of troops during a hard battle. These days though, those reinforcements are a bit more figurative. Succor is a helping hand in a time of need, relief when the going gets tough. *Succor* can also be used as a verb, as in, ""After Bob fell overboard, he was saved — *succored* by a life preserver.""

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Sundry ## Footnote consisting of a haphazard assortment of different kinds **[adj]** **sundry** sciences commonly known as social"- I.A.Richards" A woman emptying out her purse after many years might find an old stick of gum, a pair of broken sunglasses, a few movie tickets, and *sundry* items, meaning that that her purse was filled with a random collection of unrelated things. Most people associate the word *sundry* with the old-fashioned drugstore in their neighborhood that used to sell all sorts of odds and ends, from magazines to hairbrushes. The word is typically used as an adjective to describe a collection of various different items found in one place, as in — ""I discovered records, perfume bottles, and *sundry* items at my neighbor's yard sale."" The phrase ""all and *sundry*"" refers collectively to a group of people, as in, ""I invited *all and sundry* of my relatives to my tea party.""

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Supersede ## Footnote take the place or move into the position of **[v]** If you click on the link after this description, a new screen will *supersede,* or replace, this one. A longer description will supplant, or *supersede*, by replacing this brief one. Most words that include *super* have something good going on. *Supersede* is from the 16th-century Latin for ""sit on top,"" and it often means to replace with something better. A version 10 of a computer game will *supersede*, version 9, making it more exciting. Unfortunately, a person might be replaced too, as in ""the younger running back will supersede the veteran player as he gets older."" To *supersede* is generally a good thing, but being superseded is not always that great for the replaced person.

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Supine ## Footnote lying face upward **[adj]** offering no resistance **[adj]** No other colony showed such **supine**, selfish helplessness in allowing her own border citizens to be mercilessly harried"- Theodore Roosevelt" One can be described as *supine* when lying face up (""his favorite yoga poses were always the *supine* ones""); or, if one is very passive or lethargic (""*supine* in the face of their threats and insults""). The adjective *supine* comes from a Latin word, *supinus*, which means "thrown backwards" or "inactive." Whenever a person or animal is lying on its back, belly-up, it is *supine*. When your hand is open, palm-up, it is also *supine*. *Supine* can even describe a person who gives insufficient resistance, or who is lazy and ineffectual. ""When Jack refused to object to the landlord’s repeated — and gouging — rent increases, he was *supine*.""

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Supplant ## Footnote take the place or move into the position of **[v]** the computer has **supplanted** the slide rule Kate was out sick for a month with mono, and when she came back to school, Jessie had *supplanted* her as the funny girl at the lunch table. *Supplant* means to take the place of. Being *supplanted* is something that often happens to ideas or ways of thinking. Encouraging children's freedom has supplanted old ideas about children being better seen than heard. After a shocking upset at Wimbledon, a new tennis player has supplanted the reigning champion.

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Suppliant ## Footnote humbly entreating **[adj]** one praying humbly for something **[n]** a **suppliant** sinner seeking forgiveness"a **suppliant** for her favors" * Suppliant* means someone who is asking humbly. You enter church as a *suppliant*, asking God to spare you from illness. You ask in a *suppliant* (humble) manner, because you know God is stern and demands total faith. * Suppliant* is not a word you hear often these days–-it was tailor-made to be used in the days when common people spent much of their lives on their knees in big stone buildings begging for things from monarchs or from God––think hair shirts, prayer, suppliants begging the lord of the manor not to kill them for missing a payment on the rent.

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Supposition ## Footnote the cognitive process of supposing **[n]** a message expressing an opinion based on incomplete evidence **[n]** a hypothesis that is taken for granted **[n]** A *supposition* is a guess or a hypothesis. Your *supposition* that your kids will automatically wash their hands before dinner is probably false. You'd best remind them to do it or risk dirty hands at dinner. What's the difference between an *assumption* and a *supposition* — both nouns that are often taken as synonyms for each other? An assumption is an idea or theory that is usually made without proof. A supposition, on the other hand, has the connotation that the idea or theory is testable and provable. If you are to meet someone named Hunter, you may make the assumption that you are meeting a man. But if you know that Hunter lives in an all-female dorm, you may have the supposition that Hunter is a woman.

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Syllogism ## Footnote deductive reasoning in which a conclusion is derived from two premises **[n]** A *syllogism* is a type of logical reasoning where the conclusion is gotten from two linked premises. Here’s an example: An apple is a fruit. All fruit is good. Therefore apples are good. Used properly, syllogism can be a good way of reasoning, but it’s very easy to make sloppy syllogisms by messing up the middle term that links the premises together, as in: ""President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was an Aquarius. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was great. Therefore all Aquariuses are great."" Because so many are made poorly, the syllogism has a bad reputation. Poor, misleading, or tricky reasoning is often called "mere syllogism."

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Sylvan ## Footnote relating to or characteristic of wooded regions **[adj]** a spirit that lives in or frequents the woods **[n]** a shady **sylvan** glade The adjective *sylvan* refers to a shady, wooded area. The word suggests a peaceful, pleasant feeling, as though you were far away from the noise of modern life. As a noun, *sylvan* means a being that inhabits the woods. The Roman god of woods and fields was known as *Silvanus*, sometimes also known as the half-man, half-goat *sylvan* called Pan. Shakespeare’s character Puck, in ""A Midsummer Night's Dream,"" seems based on a sylvan, and other authors used the image as well. The adjectival use of the Middle French word *sylvain* evolved in the mid-16th century. The word is most often used today to describe an idyllic wooded area.

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Tacit ## Footnote implied by or inferred from actions or statements **[adj]** a **tacit** agreement Something *tacit* is implied or understood without question. Holding hands might be a *tacit* acknowledgment that a boy and girl are dating. The adjective *tacit* refers to information that is understood without needing to acknowledge it. For example, since we know that the sky is blue, that kind of assumption is *tacit*. Lawyers talk about "*tacit* agreements," where parties give their silent consent and raise no objections.

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Talisman ## Footnote a trinket or piece of jewelry usually hung about the neck and thought to be a magical protection against evil or disease **[n]** A *talisman* is a charm that is supposed to ward off evil or illness. Your rabbit's foot key chain may be your lucky *talisman*, but it wasn't so lucky for that rabbit, of course. The word *talisman* has been around in English since the 1630s and it has roots in both Arabic and Greek words. A talisman is usually worn around the neck but could exist in other forms, like a ring or inscribed stone. You can think of a talisman as a good luck charm, but people tend to take talismans more seriously â€" as if they are empowered with magic to ward off evil spirits.

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Tangential ## Footnote of superficial relevance if any **[adj]** of or relating to or acting along or in the direction of a tangent **[adj]** a **tangential** remark"**tangential** forces" *Tangential* refers to something that's not part of the whole. If you make a comment that is *tangential* to the story you're telling, it's a digression. The story could still be understood without it. In geometry, a tangent is a line that touches a curve in one spot but doesn't intersect it anywhere else. *Tangential* means something that goes off in one direction that way and doesn't return. People can feel tangentialâ€"â€"as though they're inessential and not relevant to a larger group.

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Tenet ## Footnote a religious doctrine that is proclaimed as true without proof **[n]** A *tenet* is a principle or belief honored by a person or, more often, a group of people. "Seek pleasure and avoid pain" is a basic *tenet* of Hedonism. "God exists" is a *tenet* of most major religions. *Tenet* is pronounced "tenâ€™it." The word evolved from the Latin *tenere* "to hold." The noun *tenet* is an opinion or doctrine one holds. It usually refers to a philosophy or a religion, but it doesn't have to â€" for instance, Eastern medicine has different tenets from Western medicine. One of the central tenets of succeeding in the workplace is that a good offense is the best defense.

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Tenuous ## Footnote very thin in gauge or diameter **[adj]** having thin consistency **[adj]** lacking substance or significance **[adj]** a **tenuous** thread"a **tenuous** fluid""a **tenuous** argument" If something is *tenuous* it's thin, either literally or metaphorically. If you try to learn a complicated mathematical concept by cramming for 45 minutes, you will have a *tenuous* grasp of that concept, at best. *Tenuous* comes from the Latin word *tenuis*, for thin, and is related to our word *tender*. Something can be physically tenuous, like a spiderweb or ice on a pond. We more often use it in a metaphorical sense, to talk about weak ideas. Tenuous arguments won't win any debate tournaments. Synonyms for *tenuous*, also used physically or metaphorically, are *flimsy* and *shaky*.

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Terrestrial ## Footnote of or relating to or characteristic of the planet Earth or its inhabitants **[adj]** concerned with the world or worldly matters **[adj]** of this earth **[adj]** of or relating to or inhabiting the land as opposed to the sea or air **[adj]** operating or living or growing on land **[adj]** this **terrestrial** ball"he developed an immense **terrestrial** practicality""the nearest to an angelic being that treads this **terrestrial** ball" Not straying far from its Latin root "terra" meaning "earth," *terrestrial* means "of the earth." If it's *terrestrial*, you'll find it on earth. If it's extra*terrestrial*, you'll find it emerging from a UFO. The adjective *terrestrial* can also be used to describe something that lives on land (as opposed to living in water, for example). "On their trip to the rain forest, the scientists were charged with cataloging *terrestrial* animals. Another group was going to be in charge of cataloging the aquatic animals." The adjective can also be used to describe something that is mundane in character. The teenager cried, "My life is boring and full of *terrestrial* events like going to band practice and to class!"

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Theocracy ## Footnote a political unit governed by a deity (or by officials thought to be divinely guided) **[n]** the belief in government by divine guidance **[n]** When religious doctrine is the law of the land, most likely you're living in a *theocracy*. There's not a lot of room for dissent in *theocracies,* where priests are in charge and say they are speaking for God. Notice the similarities between *theocracy* and *democracy*? In Greek, *theo-* means "God" and *-kratia* "power or rule." A *democracy* is ruled by *dÄ"mos*, "the people." An *autocracy* is one ruled by a single person with absolute power, like a king (or your mom). In *theocracies*, God rules.

Answer 343

Thespian ## Footnote a theatrical performer **[n]** of or relating to drama **[adj]** the movie director had **thespian** cooperation *Thespian* is a fancy word for actor. Since this word is related to Thespis, the guy who first took the stage in Ancient Greece, you can feel real scholarly using the word *thespian*. As an adjective, you can use the word *thespian* to describe something that is related to drama. If you enjoy theater, you can say you enjoy thespian pursuits. Many high school drama clubs offer *Thespian* status to club members who earn a certain number of points by acting in shows or working on backstage tech for them. Note that the word *thespian* is sometimes capitalized because it is taken from a person's name.

Answer 344

Timbre ## Footnote (music) the distinctive property of a complex sound (a voice or noise or musical sound) **[n]** the **timbre** of her soprano was rich and lovely *Timbre* is a word that describes the tone or unique quality of a sound. If you play the same note on a piano and on a guitar, each note will have its own *timbre*. Though an electric saw has its own *timbre*, as does the sound of a tree whooshing through the air, don't confuse *timbre* with "*Timber!*" the word you shout when chopping down trees. *Timbre* comes from the Greek word that means drum. *Timber* stems from an Old English word for building materials.

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Tirade ## Footnote a speech of violent denunciation **[n]** A *tirade* is a speech, usually consisting of a long string of violent, emotionally charged words. Borrow and lose your roommateâ€™s clothes one too many times, and you can bet youâ€™ll be treated to a heated *tirade*. The noun *tirade* is related to the Italian word *tirata*, which means "volley." So imagine a very angry person lobbing harsh words and strings of profanity in your direction when you want to remember what *tirade* means. Although, *tirades* don't necessarily have to include bad words â€" any long, drawn out speech or epic declaration can be called a *tirade*.

Answer 346

Toady ## Footnote a person who tries to please someone in order to gain a personal advantage **[n]** try to gain favor by cringing or flattering **[v]** You can call the kid who is always really nice to the teacher in hopes of getting a good grade a brown-noser or, if you want to sound clever, a *toady*. The word *toady* has a gross, yet engaging history. Back when medicine was more trickery than science, traveling medicine men would come to a town. Their assistant would eat a toad (you read that right) that was assumed poisonous so that the medicine man could "heal" him. Who would want that job, right? So toad-eater, later shortened to toady, came to mean a person who would do anything to please his boss.

Answer 347

Tome ## Footnote a (usually) large and scholarly book **[n]** A *tome* is a large book. If you're pre-med, chances are you're going to have one heck of a *tome* for your biology class. *Tome* is often used to refer to a book that is not only really large but also unusually important. If you generally carry more than one *tome* to class, invest in a bag with wheels so you don't hurt your back. A tome is big and heavy. "Wow! This tome weighs a ton!" Whatever you do, don't leave your tome at homeâ€"you'll wind up in detention! You can also use *tome* sarcastically to describe a book that clearly isn't large or important. But sarcasm is for advanced users only.

Answer 348

Torpor ## Footnote a state of motor and mental inactivity with a partial suspension of sensibility **[n]** inactivity resulting from lethargy and lack of vigor or energy **[n]** he fell into a deep **torpor** * Torpor* is a state of mental and physical inactivity. "After a huge Thanksgiving meal, my family members fall into a *torpor*; no one can even pick up the TV remote." * Torpor* can be used in everyday speech, but it's also a scientific term for a state of deep sleep that allows animals to conserve energy. Certain species of bats, birds, and frogs rely on *torpor* for survival during tough times. While humans don't technically belong to this group of animals, they certainly appear to, especially after a large meal and on most Monday mornings.

Answer 349

Torque ## Footnote a twisting force **[n]** If you have ever tightened a bolt with a wrench, or tried to get the lid off a jar of strawberry jam, then you have dealt with the concept of *torque* â€" a twisting action or a turning force. The word *torque*, which rhymes with *fork*, is used in the field of physics as a measure of rotational force. For example, how much strength does it take to move an object, such as a screwdriver, around an axis, such as a screw? In ancient times, a torque was a necklace made of twisted metal. Now, torque is commonly used to describe the power of sports cars and their ability to accelerate, since car engines operate with rotating parts.

Answer 350

Tortuous ## Footnote marked by repeated turns and bends **[adj]** highly complex or intricate and occasionally devious **[adj]** not straightforward **[adj]** a **tortuous** road up the mountain"**tortuous** legal procedures""**tortuous** negotiations lasting for months" *Tortuous* means twisting or complicated. "James Bond drove his custom BMW 120 mph on the road that was *tortuous* in its twists and turns. He had to stop the evil madman's plan for world domination that was so *tortuous* even 007 could not understand it." From Latin *torquere* "to twist," *tortuous* means something with twists and turns â€"â€" a path, an argument, a story. It is important not to confuse it with *torturous*, which means characterized by great pain. "The contemporary string quartet was *tortuous* in its tonal shifts, but only *torturous* at the point where the violinist ran her nails up and down a chalkboard."

Answer 351

Tout ## Footnote advertize in strongly positive terms **[v]** one who sells advice about gambling or speculation (especially at the racetrack) **[n]** someone who buys tickets to an event in order to resell them at a profit **[n]** This product was **touted** as a revolutionary invention To *tout* means to praise, boast, or brag about. If you like to *tout* your skill as a skier, you tell people you can go down expert-level hills. Sometimes parents will get into bragging wars about their children, each touting the accomplishments of his or her child. Sometimes the word means more of "to claim." The company touted the lotion as a solution to wrinkles. Broccoli has been touted as the cancer-fighting vegetable. In England, a tout is a person who gives advice about gambling. If you're looking to play some money on the ponies, go see the tout who hangs out at Jackieâ€™s bar for a tip.

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Tractable ## Footnote ``` easily managed (controlled or taught or molded) **[adj]** readily reacting to suggestions and influences **[adj]** ``` **tractable** young minds"the natives...being...of an intelligent **tractable** disposition"- Samuel Butler" If your little brother quietly obeys your instructions and waits for you at the food court while you and your friends wander around the mall, he's probably a *tractable* child, meaning he's obedient, flexible, and responds well to directions. Note the similarity between *tractable* and *tractor*. Both come from the Latin word *tractare*, which originally meant "to drag about." You can think of a tractable person as someone who can be dragged about easily, like a plow being dragged by a tractor.

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Transgression ## Footnote the act of transgressing; the violation of a law or a duty or moral principle **[n]** the spreading of the sea over land as evidenced by the deposition of marine strata over terrestrial strata **[n]** the boy was punished for the **transgressions** of his father A *transgression* is something that is against a command or law. Whether you are cheating on a test, or cheating on a spouse, you are committing *transgressions* that are not easily forgiven. A *transgression* can be a failure to do your duty. A *sin* is a *transgression* against God. The noun *transgression* is from Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin "act of crossing, passing over," from *transgredi* "to step or pass over."

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Transient ## Footnote lasting a very short time **[adj]** of a mental act; causing effects outside the mind **[adj]** youth's **transient** beauty"**transient** laborers" Use the adjective *transient* to describe something that always changes or moves around, like how a teenage girl can have a temporary crush on one boy one week and another boy the next week. *Transient* is most often used to modify nouns like *nature, threat, source* and *cause*, which suggests that the word often shows up in formal contexts, such as analysis of finance or global terrorism. But it can also be used for anything that moves quickly from one thing to another, like a transient feeling or facial expression. *Transient* is also a noun meaning "a person who moves from place to place; a homeless person." The word comes from Latin *transire*, "to pass over," so you can think of it as describing things that are quickly passed over.

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Translucent ## Footnote allowing light to pass through diffusely **[adj]** **translucent** amber A *translucent* material lets light pass through, but objects on the other side can't be seen clearly. Think: Shrinky Dinks or stained glass. In contrast, a *transparent* material allows you to clearly see the objects on the other side. Frosted glass is *translucent*, and regular glass is *transparent*. But *opaque* glass doesn't let any light through at all, and so you can't see through it. The adjective *translucent* is from Latin *translucens*, from *translucere* "to shine through."

Answer 356

Travail ## Footnote use of physical or mental energy; hard work **[n]** concluding state of pregnancy; from the onset of contractions to the birth of a child **[n]** If youâ€™ve had to bust your behind, burn the midnight oil, and shed blood, sweat, and tears to get where you are today, you could say youâ€™ve endured significant *travail*. In other words, back-breakingly hard mental exertion or physical labor. *Travail* comes to us from a sinister Latin word: *trepalium*, meaning â€œinstrument of torture.â€ The closest English word is probably toil, though *travail* means youâ€™re not just exerting monumental effort but suffering as you do so. If your life has been hard-knock enough to be the stuff of old blues songs or Shakespearean tragedies, youâ€™ve had your share of travails. In French, incidentally, *travail* simply means work. The Spanish *trabajo* (work) is closely related.

Answer 357

Travesty ## Footnote a composition that imitates or misrepresents somebody's style, usually in a humorous way **[n]** a comedy characterized by broad satire and improbable situations **[n]** make a travesty of **[v]** A *travesty* is a cheap mockery, usually of something or someone serious, such as a *travesty* of justice. A *travesty* is a silly imitation, like a tall young man dressed up like a little old lady. *Travesty* and *transvestite* both come from French *travesti* meaning "dressed in disguise," so it helps to remember the definition of *travesty* by thinking of that football player in drag. A *travesty* can be more than that, though. A *travesty* of justice, for example, is a court case that makes a mockery of the system, or so you might think if the verdict isn't in your favor. There are lots of examples in literature: the book *Don Quixote* is a *travesty* of Medieval Romance.

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Treatise ## Footnote a formal exposition **[n]** Our principal published her fifty-page "*Treatise* on Gum Chewing" days before she was carted away by men in white coats. *Treatises* are formal papers that treat a specific subject. Gum chewing shouldn't merit one. *Treatise* is related to the verb *treat*, which means "deal with." A doctor treats a patient. A teacher treats the senator's child with kid gloves. *Treatise* means a written paper or exposition that deals with or treats a specific subject.

Answer 359

Tremulous ## Footnote (of the voice) quivering as from weakness or fear **[adj]** spoke timidly in a **tremulous** voice Something *tremulous* is shaky and quivering, usually from fear or lack of strength. If you're nervous at your first big job interview, your hands might be a little *tremulous*. Youâ€™ve likely heard the unsteady voice of a person close to tears, or seen the trembling legs of a frightened child â€" both could certainly be described as *tremulous*. But you can also use this adjective to describe a statement or action that lacks resolution and courage, or even simply something that's shivering from the cold.

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Trepidation ## Footnote a feeling of alarm or dread **[n]** When plain old "fear" isn't enough to get across a deep feeling of dread about something on the horizon, use the more formal word *trepidation*. It was with a certain *trepidation* that I attended an advance screening of Rob Zombie's *Halloween* in Hollywood last night," wrote a film reviewer. Some dictionaries note that *trepidation* carries connotations of apprehension about an upcoming threat. In most cases, though, you can get by with the simpler word *fear* â€" why use three syllables when you could make do with one? The word comes from the Latin verb *trepidare*, "to tremble."

Answer 361

Truculence ## Footnote obstreperous and defiant aggressiveness **[n]** If you get into fights all of the time, you might be accused of *truculence* and sent for anger management classes. *Truculence* is showing a fierce kind of aggression. If your basketball team wins a game by sheer truculence, it means that they win not by skill or talent, but by playing with ferocious aggression. It would be a dirty win, one with lots of fouls and thrown elbows. *Truculence* comes from the Latin word for *trux* meaning fierce or wild.

Answer 362

Tryst ## Footnote a secret rendezvous (especially between lovers) **[n]** a date; usually with a member of the opposite sex **[n]** A meeting is when people get together for any reason. But when they are sneaking to meet, notably as secret lovers, it's called a *tryst*. The origin of the word *tryst* comes from Middle English, and originally referred to a designated hunting station. Today it has come to refer to mainly romantic meetings, often with a secretive feel to it. (That's appropriate â€" arenâ€™t we all hunting for love?) The word *tryst* might also suggest a hint of danger or intrigue. Perhaps the most romantic *tryst* in literature was the meeting between Romeo and Juliet â€" and just look where they ended up!

Answer 363

Tumid ## Footnote of sexual organs; stiff and rigid **[adj]** abnormally distended especially by fluids or gas **[adj]** ostentatiously lofty in style **[adj]** **tumid** political prose To understand *tumid*, think about how your belly feels after Thanksgiving when you've just polished off that third helping of turkey with stuffing and Brussels sprouts. Gassy? Full? Distended? That's *tumid* for you. *Tumid* is also used by critics all over to describe their subjects (or rather "victims"). Any art form, particularly writing or acting, is ripe for description as *tumid* if it's overblown, bombastic and, well, gassy. Often used interchangeably with *turgid* in this sense.

Answer 364

Turbid ## Footnote (of liquids) clouded as with sediment **[adj]** If a liquid is dark and murky and you can't see through it, it's *turbid*. Itâ€™s usually used as a criticism â€" a *turbid* river is generally a polluted one, but then again a good pint of real ale should be *turbid*. Go figure. *Turbid* comes from the Latin word *turbidus*, which means "muddy, full of confusion." Although itâ€™s usually used to describe liquid, like that turgid creek your rain boot disappeared in, it can also be used to describe writing thatâ€™s unclear. If your teacher says your essay for English is turbid, itâ€™s time to go back to work! Outlines and thesis statements can help clear up turbid prose.

Answer 365

Turgid ## Footnote ostentatiously lofty in style **[adj]** abnormally distended especially by fluids or gas **[adj]** * Turgid* describes something that's swollen, typically by fluids, like a *turgid* water balloon that's way too big to resist dropping on your friend's head. * Turgid* comes from the Latin word *turgidus*, meaning "swollen, inflated." Turgid can be used in a figurative sense to describe things that are overblown. That might remind you of some people's egos! If a famous singer wants to showcase his incredible vocal range and his love of yodeling in a single song, the result may well be turgid, something so swollen with notes and styles that it seems ready to burst.

Answer 366

Tutelary ## Footnote providing protective supervision; watching over or safeguarding **[adj]** **tutelary** gods The adjective *tutelary* describes something that is supervising or guarding something else, like the *tutelary* duties of a babysitter who makes sure the kids don't hurt themselves at the playground. To correctly pronounce *tutelary*, say "TOO-tuh-leh-ree." *Tutelary* comes from the Latin word *tutus*, meaning "watch over." You see this root in words like *tutor* and *tutorial*, which also involve watching over, though in a more specific sense that applies primarily to instructing. *Tutelary*'s suffix *-ary* means "having to do with." So something that is tutelary has to do with keeping watch, like the tutelary presence of a parent supervising a child, or even a tutelary god in an ancient society.

G2T - vocab Flashcards

(390 cards)