GRE Vocab II

Question 1

Semantics

Answer 1

The study of the meaning of words and phrases in language; the meaning of words and phrases in a particular context

Question 2

Undermine

Answer 2

To make (someone or something) weaker or less effective usually in a secret or gradual way

Question 3

Contortion

Answer 3

To twist into an unusual appearance or shape

Question 4

Swindle

Answer 4

To take money or property from (someone) by using lies or tricks

Question 5

Tangential

Answer 5

Adj. Slightly or indirectly related to something: not closely connected to something

Question 6

Improvident

Answer 6

Adj. Not providing or saving for the future: not wise or sensible regarding money

Question 7

Taciturn

Answer 7

Tending to be quiet: not speaking frequently

Question 8

Quixotic

Answer 8

Adj. Hopeful or romantic in a way that is not practical

Question 9

Emblematic

Answer 9

Representing something (such as an idea, state, or emotion) that cannot be seen by itself)

Question 10

Utilitarian

Answer 10

Adj. Made to be useful rather than to be decorative or comfortable

Question 11

Presciently

Answer 11

Adv. The ability to know what will or might happen in the future. Noun: prescience

Question 12

Providential

Answer 12

Happening at a good time because of luck

Question 13

Simpatico

Answer 13

Agreeable; on the same wavelength

Question 14

Coalesced

Answer 14

to come together to form one group or mass

Question 15

Presage

Answer 15

Something that foreshadows or portends a future even; omen

Question 16

Inform

Answer 16

to give substance, character, or distinction

Question 17

Sentries

Answer 17

a soldier who guards a door, gate, etc

Question 18

Fecund

Answer 18

Producing or able to produce many babies, young animals, or plants

Question 19

Puissant

Answer 19

Powerful

Question 20

Restive

Answer 20

Feeling bored or impatient while waiting for something to happen or change

Question 21

Complaisant

Answer 21

Willing or eager to please other people

Question 22

Virescent

Answer 22

Beginning to be green; greenish

Question 23

Peccadillo

Answer 23

A small mistake or fault that is not regarded as very bad or serious

Question 24

Sanguine

Answer 24

Confident and hopeful

Question 25

Risible

Answer 25

Deserving to be laughed at

Question 26

Convivial

Answer 26

Of or relating to social events where people can eat, drink, and talk in a friendly way with others

Question 27

Motley

Answer 27

Made up of many different people or things