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148 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
- 3rd side (hint)
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Cognitive |
of, relating to, or involving conscious mental activities (such as thinking, understanding, learning, and remembering) |
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Dynamo |
: a machine that produces electricity: someone who has a lot of energy |
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Coltish |
Young male horse with 4age |
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Garner |
to collect or gather (something): to get or receive (something wanted or valued)Full Definitiontransitive verb1 a : to gather into storage b : to deposit as if in a granary <volumes in which he has garnered the fruits of his lifetime labors — Reinhold Niebuhr>2 a : to acquire by effort : earn b : accumulate, collect |
ExamplesShe garnered more evidence to support her theory.The senator has spent much time garnering financial support for his upcoming campaign.The novel has garnered much praise and several awards. |
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Homage |
Expressipn of great respect or honor: something that is done to honor someone or something |
Her book is a homage to her favorite city.the poem is a moving homage to all who have served in our nation's armed services |
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Conciliatory |
to make (someone) more friendly or less angry
Appease,pacify , reconcile, please |
ExamplesIt can be difficult to reconcile your ideals with reality.historians have never been able to reconcile the two eyewitness accounts of the battle |
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Sage |
Very wise |
sage suggestion that she think long and hard before deciding to marry at such a young age |
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Equivocates |
to use unclear language especially to deceive or mislead someone |
The applicant seemed to be equivocating when we asked him about his last job.When asked about her tax plan, the candidate didn't equivocate. |
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Aesthetics |
Relating to beauty or art Good,fair,cute,beautiful |
There are practical as well as aesthetic reasons for planting trees.making aesthetic improvements to the building |
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Transgressions |
Violation of law breach, crime, debt, error, lawbreaking, malefaction, misdeed, misdoing, sin, offense, trespass, violation, wrongdoing |
acts that are transgressions against the laws of civilized societies everywherea dying woman asking for divine forgiveness for a lifetime of transgressions |
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Extraneous |
not forming a necessary part of something : not important Not essential |
She sped up the process by eliminating all extraneous steps.the architect's streamlined modern style shuns any sort of extraneous ornamentation |
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Shuns |
to avoid (someone or something) Escape |
the architect's streamlined modern style shuns any sort of extraneous ornamentation |
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Disinterested |
not influenced by personal feelings, opinions, or concerns: having no desire to know about a particular thing : not interested |
the disinterested pursuit of truththe city's philistines, naturally disinterested in art, voted to cut the museum's budget |
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Solicitous |
: showing concern or care for someone's health, happiness, etc. Attentive |
I appreciated his solicitous inquiry about my health.He had always been solicitous for the welfare of his family. |
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Sporadic |
Irregular |
ExamplesSporadic cases of the disease were reported.sporadic loud noises kept startling everyone |
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Onerous |
difficult and unpleasant to do or deal with
Burdensome bitter, brutal, burdensome, cruel, excruciating, grievous, grim, hard, hardhanded, heavy, inhuman, murderous, harsh, oppressive, rough, rugged, searing, severe, stiff, tough, |
The government imposed onerous taxes on imports.had the onerous and stressful job of notifying the families of soldiers killed in action |
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Antipathy |
Strong feeling of dislike |
There has always been strong antipathy between the two groups.The author's antipathies and prejudices are obvious. |
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Prejudice |
to cause (someone) to have an unfair feeling of dislike for someone or something: to have a harmful effect on (something, such as a legal case) an unfair feeling of dislike for a person or group because of race, sex, religion, etc.: a feeling of like or dislike for someone or something especially when it is not reasonable or logical |
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Tirade |
Long and angry speech |
He went into a tirade about the failures of the government.The coach directed a tirade at the team after the loss. |
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Precipitates |
Resultant, consequences, flow suddenly, rain,to separate d |
Her death precipitated a family crisis.The budget problem was precipitated by many unexpected costs.minerals that precipitate from seawater |
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Vituperative |
Abusive Censure severely abuse, assail, bash, belabor, blast, castigate, excoriate, jump (on), lambaste (or lambast), potshot, savage, scathe, slam, trash, attack |
every week the minister would ascend the pulpit and vituperate the parishioners for a litany of vices |
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Ascend |
o go up : to rise or move toward the sky: to slope or lead upward: to rise toa higher or more powerful position in a government, company, etc. |
They watched their balloons slowly ascend into the sky.Divers must not ascend too rapidly to the water's surface.She believed that when she died, her soul would ascend to heaven. |
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litany |
prayer in a Christian church service in which the people at the service respond to lines spoken by the person who is leading the service: a long list of complaints, problems, etc. |
He has a litany of grievances against his former employer.The team blamed its losses on a litany of injuries. |
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Ascetic |
relating to or having a strict and simple way of living that avoids physical pleasure |
an ascetic diet of rice and beans |
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Placate |
to cause (someone) to feel less angry about somethingFull Definitiontransitive verb: to soothe or mollify especially by concessions : appease |
The administration placated protesters by agreeing to consider their demands.The angry customer was not placated by the clerk's apology. |
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cacophony |
marked by cacophony : harsh-sounding, noisy Unpleasant loud sound ca·coph·o·nous·ly adverbExamplesthe cacophonous chaos on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange |
The sounds of barking dogs and sirens added to the cacophony on the streets.the cacophony of a pet store full of animals |
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Viscous |
of a liquid : thick or sticky : not flowing easilyExamplesviscous syrup that takes forever to pour from a narrow-neck bottle |
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Plasticity |
: the quality of being able to be made into different shapes Full Definition1 : the quality or state of being plastic; especially : capacity for being molded or altered2 : the ability to retain a shape attained by pressure deformation3 : the capacity of organisms with the same genotype to vary in developmental pattern, in phenotype, or in behavior according to varying environmental conditions4 : the capacity for continuous alteration of the neural pathways and synapses of the living brain and nervous system in response to experience or injuryExampleswe chose that type of clay for its greater plasticity |
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Pristine |
in perfect condition : completely clean, fresh, neat, etc.: not changed by people : left in its natural state Full Definition1 : belonging to the earliest period or state : original <the hypothetical pristine lunar atmosphere>2 a : not spoiled, corrupted, or polluted (as by civilization) : pure <a pristine forest> b : fresh and clean as or as if new <used books in pristine condition>pris·tine·ly adverbExamplesMy office is a mess but her office is always pristine.He was wearing a pristine white shirt. |
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Viable |
capable of being done or used: capable of succeeding: capable of living or of developing into a living thing Full Definition1 : capable of living; especially : having attained such form and development as to be normally capable of surviving outside the mother's womb <a viable fetus>2 : capable of growing or developing <viable seeds> <viable eggs>3 a : capable of working, functioning, or developing adequately <viable alternatives> b : capable of existence and development as an independent unit <the colony is now a viable state> c (1) : having a reasonable chance of succeeding <a viable candidate> (2) : financially sustainable <a viable enterprise>vi·a·bil·i·ty \ˌvī-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ nounvi·a·bly \ˈvī-ə-blē\ adverbExamplesa viable solution to the problemHe could not suggest a viable alternative.Is she a viable candidate?
Synonyms: achievable, attainable, doable, feasible, practicable, realizable, possible, workable |
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Obviate |
: to make (something) no longer necessary : to prevent or avoid (something) : to anticipate and prevent (as a situation) or make unnecessary (as an action) ExamplesThe new medical treatment obviates the need for surgery.The new treatment obviates many of the risks associated with surgery. |
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Facetious |
Humorous used to describe speech that is meant to be funny but that is usually regarded as annoying, silly, or not proper Full Definition1 : joking or jesting often inappropriately : waggish <just being facetious> 2 : meant to be humorous or funny : not serious <a facetious remark> Examplesthe essay is a facetious commentary on the absurdity of war as a solution for international disputesa facetious and tasteless remark about people in famine-stricken countries being spared the problem of overeating. |
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Prodigal |
carelessly and foolishly spending money, time, etc. Full Definition1 : characterized by profuse or wasteful expenditure : lavish <a prodigal feast> <prodigal outlays for her clothes>2 : recklessly spendthrift <the prodigal prince>3 : yielding abundantly : luxuriant — often used with of <nature has been so prodigal of her bounty — H. T. Buckle>Examplesthe prodigal child always spent her allowance the minute she got it Synonyms: extravagant, high-rolling, profligate, spendthrift, squandering, thriftless, unthrifty, wasteful |
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Superficial |
concerned only with what is obvious or apparent : not thorough or complete: affecting only the outer part or surface of something : not deep or serious: lying close to the surface Full Definition1 a (1) : of, relating to, or located near a surface (2) : lying on, not penetrating below, or affecting only the surface <superficial wounds>b British of a unit of measure : square <superficial foot>2 a : concerned only with the obvious or apparent : shallowb : seen on the surface : externalc : presenting only an appearance without substance or significance Examplesa superficial analysis of the resultsThey had a superficial knowledge of the topic.These superficial changes don't address the underlying problem. |
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Apparently |
: easy to see or understand: seeming to be true but possibly not trueFull Definition1 : open to view : visible2 : clear or manifest to the understanding <reasons that are readily apparent>3 : appearing as actual to the eye or mind4 : having an indefeasible right to succeed to a title or estate5 : manifest to the senses or mind as real or true on the basis of evidence that may or may not be factually valid <the air of spontaneity is perhaps more apparent than real — J. R. Sutherland>ExamplesFrom the beginning, it was apparent that she was not an ordinary child.He started yelling and throwing things for no apparent reason.We disagreed on the apparent meaning of the movie. |
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Yell |
: to say (something) very loudly especially because you are angry, surprised, or are trying to get someone's attention: to make a sudden, loud cry Full Definition1 : to utter (complete,make,say) a loud cry, scream, or shout2 : to give a cheer usually in unisontransitive verb: to utter or declare with or as if with a yell : shoutExamplesWe saw people yelling for help.I heard someone yelling my name.The crowd was yelling wildly |
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Recant |
to publicly say that you no longer have an opinion or belief that you once had Full Definitiontransitive verb1 : to withdraw or repudiate (a statement or belief) formally and publicly : renounce2 : revokeintransitive verb: to make an open confession of errorsynonyms see abjure ExamplesChurch officials asked the minister to recant.Witnesses threatened to recant their testimony when the court released their names to the paper.Synonyms: abnegate, forswear (also foreswear), abjure, renege, renounce, repeal, repudiate, retract, take back, unsay, withdraw |
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Mitigate |
: to make (something) less severe, harmful, or painful Full Definition1 : to cause to become less harsh or hostile : mollify <aggressiveness may be mitigated or…channeled — Ashley Montagu>2 a : to make less severe or painful : alleviate b : extenuatesynonyms see relieve ExamplesEmergency funds are being provided to help mitigate the effects of the disaster.medicines used to mitigate a patient's suffering Synonyms: allay, alleviate, assuage, ease, help, mollify, palliate, relieve, soothe |
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Equanimity |
calm emotions when dealing with problems or pressureFull Definition1 : evenness of mind especially under stress <nothing could disturb his equanimity>2 : right disposition : balance <physical equanimity>Other forms: plural equa·nim·i·tiesExamplesan Olympic diver who always displays remarkable equanimity on the platform |
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Impassive |
not showing emotion, emotionless, expressionless , passionless Full Definition1 a archaic : unsusceptible to pain b : unsusceptible to physical feeling : insensible c : unsusceptible to or destitute of emotion : apathetic2 : giving no sign of feeling or emotion : expressionless ExamplesHer face remained impassive throughout the trial.she remained impassive as the officers informed her of her son's death |
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Misanthrope |
person who does not like other peopleFull Definition: a person who hates or distrusts humankindExamplesa former misanthrope who now professes a newly discovered love of mankind |
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Zealot |
person who has very strong feelings about something (such as religion or politics) and who wants other people to have those feelings : a zealous personFull Definition1 capitalized : a member of a fanatical sect arising in Judea during the first century a.d. and militantly opposing the Roman domination of Palestine2 : a zealous person; especially : a fanatical partisan <a religious zealot> Exampleszealots on both sides of the issue resorted to name-calling and scare tactics |
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Tangential |
slightly or indirectly related to something : not closely connected to somethin |
Their romance is tangential to the book's main plot. |
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Digress |
to speak or write about something that is different from the main subject being discussedFull Definitionintransitive verb: to turn aside especially from the main subject of attention or course of argumentsynonyms see swerveExamplesHe digressed so often that it was hard to follow what he was saying.If I can digress for a moment, I'd like to briefly mention her earlier film |
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Penchant |
strong liking for something or a strong tendency to behave in a certain wayFull Definition: a strong and continued inclination; broadly : likingsynonyms see leaningExamplesa penchant for sitting by the window and staring moodily off into space |
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Leaning |
a preference for something or tendency to do somethingFull Definition: a definite but not decisive attraction or tendency — often used in plural <radical leanings>Examplesthe news media are often accused of having liberal leaningsdespite what his athletic leanings might suggest, he was actually a very lazy kid |
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Inclination |
feeling of wanting to do something : a tendency to do something: a slanting surface: the act of bending your head or body forward : the act of inclining your head or body |
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Abstemious |
not eating and drinking too muchFull Definition: marked by restraint especially in the consumption of food or alcohol; also : reflecting such restraint <an abstemious diet> ExamplesShe is known as an abstemious eater and drinker.being abstemious diners, they avoid restaurants with all-you-can-eat buffets |
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Foment |
to cause or try to cause the growth or development of (something bad or harmful) Provoke
Full Definitiontransitive verb: to promote the growth or development of : rouse, incite <foment a rebellion>synonyms see inciteExamplesHe was accused of fomenting violence.John Adams's wife, Abigail, told him that if women were not remembered by the new American government, they would “foment a Rebellion and will not hold ourselves bound by any Laws in which we have no voice or Representation”. s: abet, brew, ferment, foment, incite, pick, provoke, raise, stir (up), whip (up) |
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Anachronism |
something (such as a word, an object, or an event) that is mistakenly placed in a time where it does not belong in a story, movie, etc.: a person or a thing that seems to belong to the past and not to fit in the present Full Definition1 : an error in chronology; especially : a chronological misplacing of persons, events, objects, or customs in regard to each other2 : a person or a thing that is chronologically out of place; especially : one from a former age that is incongruous in the present3 : the state or condition of being chronologically out of place ExamplesThe novel is full of anachronisms.He's an old-fashioned politician who is seen by many of his colleagues as an anachronism. |
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Tacit |
expressed or understood without being directly stated Full Definition1 : expressed or carried on without words or speech <the blush was a tacit answer — Bram Stoker>2 : implied or indicated (as by an act or by silence) but not actually expressed <tacit consent> <tacit admission of guilt> ExamplesShe felt that she had her parents' tacit approval to borrow the car.There was a tacit agreement that he would pay off the loan.Synonyms: implied, implicit, unexpressed, unspoken, unvoiced, wordless |
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Salubrious |
Healthful |
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Disparate |
Dissimilar |
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Ambivalence |
State of having conflicting emotion |
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Gullible |
Easily deceived |
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Disseminate |
Spread , scatter dispersed |
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Loquacious |
liking to talk and talking smoothly and easilyFull Definition1 : full of excessive talk : wordy2 : given to fluent or excessive talk : garruloussynonyms see talkative |
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Precarious |
not safe, strong, or steadyFull Definition1 : depending on the will or pleasure of another2 : dependent on uncertain premises : dubious <precarious generalizations>3 a : dependent on chance circumstances, unknown conditions, or uncertain developments b : characterized by a lack of security or stability that threatens with dangersynonyms see dangerousExamplesHe earned a precarious livelihood by gambling.The strong wind almost knocked him off of his precarious perch on the edge of the cliff. |
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Magnanimous |
having or showing a generous and kind natureFull Definition1 : showing or suggesting a lofty and courageous spirit <the irreproachable lives and magnanimous sufferings of their followers — Joseph Addison>2 : showing or suggesting nobility of feeling and generosity of mind <too sincere for dissimulation, too magnanimous for resentment — Ellen Glasgow> ExamplesShe was too magnanimous to resent all the things others had said to her.a magnanimous donation to the town's animal shelter |
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Neophyte |
: a person who has just started learning or doing something: a person who has recently joined a religious group Full Definition1 : a new convert : proselyte2 : novice 13 : tyro, beginner Examplesneophytes are assigned an experienced church member to guide them through their first year |
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Presumptuous |
too confident especially in a way that is rude : done or made without permission, right, or good reason Bold Full Definition: overstepping due bounds (as of propriety or courtesy) : taking liberties Examplesit's a little presumptuous of you to assume that I'm your new best friend just because I invited you alongthe presumptuous doctor didn't even bother to explain to me the treatment that I would be receiving |
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Igneous |
formed when hot, liquid rock cools and becomes hard |
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Approbation |
praise or approval Full Definition1 obsolete : proof2 a : an act of approving formally or officially b : commendation, praise ExamplesThe company has even received the approbation of its former critics.that plan has the approbation of the school board |
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Occluded |
to close up or block off : obstruct <a thrombus occluding a coronary artery>; also : conceal 2 : sorbintransitive verb1 : to come into contact with cusps of the opposing teeth fitting together <his teeth do not occlude properly>2 : to become occludedOther forms: oc·clud·ed; oc·clud·ing Examplesa blood clot had occluded a major artery in his body |
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Conceal |
: to hide (something or someone) from sight: to keep (something) secret |
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Exacerbated |
to make (a bad situation, a problem, etc.) worse Full Definitiontransitive verb: to make more violent, bitter, or severe <the new law only exacerbates the problem>ExamplesThe proposed factory shutdown would only exacerbate our unemployment problems.His angry comments have exacerbated tensions in the negotiation process |
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Appropriate |
: to get or save (money) for a specific use or purpose: to take or use (something) especially in a way that is illegal, unfair, etc.Full Definitiontransitive verb1 : to take exclusive possession of : annex <no one should appropriate a common benefit>2 : to set apart for or assign to a particular purpose or use <appropriate money for the research program>3 : to take or make use of without authority or right Take over ExamplesThe town has appropriated funds to repair the bridge and work should begin this summer.The economy has been weakened by corrupt officials who have appropriated the country's resources for their own use.Elements of the design were appropriated from other architects. Synonyms: arrogate, commandeer, convert, expropriate, pirate, preempt, press, seize, take over, usurp |
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Permeable |
: allowing liquids or gases to pass through Full Definition: capable of being permeated : penetrable; especially : having pores or openings that permit liquids or gases to pass through <a permeable membrane> <permeable limestone>ExamplesThe cell has a permeable membrane.a permeable fabric that allows your body heat to escape will be much more comfortable in the summertime Synonyms: passable, penetrable, pervious, porous |
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Sensuous |
affecting the senses in a pleasing way : pleasant, attractive, or appealing in a way that produces or suggests feelings of physical or sexual pleasure Full Definition1 a : of or relating to the senses or sensible objectsb : producing or characterized by gratification of the senses : having strong sensory appeal <sensuous pleasure>2 : characterized by sense impressions or imagery aimed at the senses <sensuous verse>3 : highly susceptible to influence through the senses ExamplesThe sensuous sounds of soul music created a warm atmosphere.A gentle, sensuous breeze caressed our faces. Synonyms: sensational, sensitive, sensorial, sensory |
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Cravens |
having or showing a complete lack of courage : very cowardly Full Definition1 archaic : defeated, vanquished2 : lacking the least bit of courage : contemptibly faintheartedsynonyms see cowardlyExamplesa craven refusal to deliver the unwelcome news personally |
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Cowardly |
: someone who is too afraid to do what is right or expected : someone who is not at all brave or courageous Full Definition: one who shows disgraceful fear or timidity Examplesa proven coward who had deserted his troopsthe soldiers who ran as soon as the first shots were fired were branded as cowards |
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Vitiate |
Impair the quality of, corrupt morally. to make (something) less effective : to ruin or spoil (something)Full Definitiontransitive verb1 : to make faulty or defective : impair <the comic impact is vitiated by obvious haste — William Styron>2 : to debase in moral or aesthetic status <a mind vitiated by prejudice>3 : to make ineffective <fraud vitiates a contract>synonyms see debase
ExamplesThe impact of the film was vitiated by poor acting.believed that luxury vitiates even the most principled person |
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Impair |
: to make (something) weaker or worse Full Definition: to damage or make worse by or as if by diminishing in some material respect <his health was impaired by overwork> <the strike seriously impaired community services>synonyms see injure ExamplesSmoking can impair your health.Drinking impairs a person's ability to think clearly.His memory was so impaired by age that he often forgot where he was. |
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Castigation |
: to criticize (someone) harshly Full Definitiontransitive verb: to subject to severe punishment, reproof, or criticismsynonyms see punishExamplesThe author castigated the prime minister as an ineffective leader.castigated him for his constant tardiness |
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Homogeneous |
made up of the same kind of people or things |
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Banal |
boring or ordinary : not interestingFull Definition: lacking originality, freshness, or novelty : tritesynonyms see insipid ExamplesHe made some banal remarks about the weather.The writing was banal but the story was good. |
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Salutary |
having a good or helpful result especially after something unpleasant has happened Expecting improvement Full Definition1 : producing a beneficial effect : remedial <salutary influences>2 : promoting health : curativesynonyms see healthful Synonyms: advantageous, benefic, beneficent, benignant, favorable, friendly, good, helpful, kindly, profitable, beneficial ExamplesThe accident should be a salutary lesson to be more careful.the low interest rates should have a salutary effect on business |
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Disabuse |
: to show or convince (someone) that a belief is incorrect Full Definitiontransitive verb: to free from error, fallacy, or misconception Exampleslet me disabuse you of your foolish notions about married life |
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Burgeon |
: to grow or develop quicklyFull Definitionintransitive verb1 a : to send forth new growth (as buds or branches) : sprout b : bloom2 : to grow and expand rapidly : flourish ExamplesThe market for collectibles has burgeoned in recent years.the trout population in the stream is burgeoning now that the water is clean |
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Sprouts |
to produce new leaves, buds, etc.: to grow or develop (something): to appear suddenly and in large numbers Full Definitionintransitive verb1 : to grow, spring up, or come forth as or as if a sprout2 : to send out new growthtransitive verb: to send forth or up : cause to develop : grow Examplesseeds sprouting in the springPotatoes will sprout in the bag if kept in a warm place.The garden is sprouting weeds. |
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Flourish |
to grow well : to be healthy: to be very successful : to do very well: to hold up and show (something) in an excited or proud way |
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Contentious |
likely to cause people to argue or disagree: involving a lot of arguing: likely or willing to argue
Quarrelsome,causing quarrel |
After a contentious debate, members of the committee finally voted to approve the funding.The dispute involves one of the region's most contentious leaders.Origin: (see contention ).First use: 15th centurySynonyms: aggressive, agonistic, argumentative, assaultive, bellicose, brawly, chippy, combative, confrontational, belligerent, discordant, disputatious, feisty, gladiatorial, militant, pugnacious, quarrelsome, scrappy, truculent, warlike |
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Probity |
the quality of a person who is completely honest Full Definition: adherence to the highest principles and ideals : uprightnesssynonyms see honesty Examplesa person of indisputable probity must head the disciplinary panelthe defense attorney questioned the probity of the witness |
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Cosmology |
the scientific study of the origin and structure of the universe |
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Pedant |
person who annoys other people by correcting small errors and giving too much attention to minor details |
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Effete |
lacking strength, courage, or spirit: resembling a woman |
effete members of the aristocracythe soft, effete society that marked the final years of the Roman empire |
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decadent |
having low morals and a great love of pleasure, money, fame, etc.: attractive to people of low morals who are only interested in pleasure: extremely pleasing |
The book condemns some of society's wealthiest members as decadent fools.a wealthy and decadent lifestylea decadent hotel room, complete with a hot tub |
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degenerate |
having low moral standards : not honest, proper, or good |
He criticizes what he believes is a degenerate society.a degenerate society in which people had no sense of being citizens, only consumers |
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Depleted |
: to use most or all of (something important) : to greatly reduce the amount of (something) |
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Vitality |
a lively or energetic quality: the power or ability of something to continue to live, be successful, etc. Liveliness |
Her prose is full of vitality.These scandals could threaten the vitality of the sport.the economic vitality of our cities |
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Prose |
Ordinary writing |
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Inchoate |
Imperfect ly formed not completely formed or developed yetFull Definition: being only partly in existence or operation : incipient; especially : imperfectly formed or formulated : formless, incoherent <misty, inchoate suspicions that all is not well with the nation —
Examplesinchoate feelings of affection for a man whom she had, up till now, thought of as only a friend |
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deference |
way of behaving that shows respect for someone or something Full Definition: respect and esteem due a superior or an elder; also : affected or ingratiating regard for another's wishessynonyms see honorin deference to : in consideration of <returned early in deferenceto her parents' wishes>ExamplesHer relatives treat one another with deference.He is shown much deference by his colleagues. |
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Irascible |
Irritable
: becoming angry very easily : having a bad temper Full Definition: marked by hot temper and easily provoked anger Examplesan irascible old football coachHe has an irascible disposition |
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Emulate |
Imitate or copy : to try to be like (someone or something you admire)Full Definitiontransitive verb1 a : to strive to equal or excel b : imitate; especially : to imitate by means of an emulator2 : to equal or approach equality with ExamplesShe grew up emulating her sports heroes.artists emulating the style of their teachers |
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Erudite |
: having or showing knowledge that is learned by studying Full Definition: having or showing knowledge that is gained by studying : possessing or displaying erudition <an erudite scholar> Examplesthe most erudite people in medical research attended the conferencean erudite lecture on the latest discoveries in astronomySynonyms: educated, knowledgeable, learned, lettered, literate, scholarly, well-readAntonyms: benighted, dark, ignorant, illiterate, uneducated, unlearned, unlettered, unscholarly |
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Baffle, perplex,confound |
to confuse (someone) completely |
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Ebullient |
lively and enthusiastic |
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Bombast |
speech or writing that is meant to sound important or impressive but is not sincere or meaningful |
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Pompous |
: having or showing the attitude of people who speak and behave in a very formal and serious way because they believe that they are better, smarter, or more important than other people |
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Recalcitrant |
stubbornly refusing to obey rules or orders |
the manager worried that the recalcitrant employee would try to undermine his authoritya heart-to-heart talk with the recalcitrant youth revealed that he had a troubled life at home |
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Resist |
o fight against (something) : to try to stop or prevent (something): to remain strong against the force or effect of (something) : to not be affected or harmed by (something): to prevent yourself from doing something that you want to do |
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Vacillate |
to repeatedly change your opinions or desiresFull Definitionintransitive verb1 a : to sway through lack of equilibrium b : fluctuate, oscillate2 : to waver in mind, will, or feeling : hesitate in choice of opinions or coursessynonyms see hesitate ExamplesShe has vacillated on this issue.vacillated for so long that someone else stepped in and made the decision |
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Irresolute |
not certain about what to do : not resolute(determined) |
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Empirical |
based on testing or experience ExperiencedFull Definition1 : originating in or based on observation or experience <empirical data>2 : relying on experience or observation alone often without due regard for system and theory <an empirical basis for the theory>3 : capable of being verified or disproved by observation or experiment <empirical laws>4 : of or relating to empiricism ExamplesThey collected plenty of empirical data from their experiments.guidelines for raising children that are based on empirical evidence |
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Opprobrium |
very strong disapproval or criticism of a person or thing especially by a large number of people |
They're going ahead with the plan despite public opprobrium.saw no reason why “secretary” should suddenly become a term of opprobrium among the politically correct |
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Disgrace |
to cause (someone) to feel ashamed: to cause (someone or something) to lose or become unworthy of respect or approval |
ExamplesMany feel that the mayor has disgraced the town government by accepting personal favors from local businesspeople.He felt he had disgraced himself by failing at school.First use: 1580Synonyms: abase, chasten, cheapen, debase, degrade, demean, discredit, humble, dishonor, foul, humiliate, lower, shame, sink, smirch, take down |
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Contempt |
Disrespect |
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Commensurate |
Proportional |
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Qualified |
having the necessary skill, experience, or knowledge to do a particular job or activity : having the qualifications to do something: not complete : limited in some way |
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Vapid |
Tasteless,dull |
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Obsequious |
too eager to help or obey someone important Over submissive. Full Definition: marked by or exhibiting a fawning attentivenesssynonyms see subservient ExamplesShe's constantly followed by obsequious assistants who will do anything she tells them to. |
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Chicanery |
actions or statements that trick people into believing something that is not true : deception or trickery Trick |
He wasn't above using chicanery to win votes.that candidate only won the election through chicanery |
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Exigency |
something that is necessary in a particular situation Crisis, urgent requirement |
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Insensible |
Unconscious, unresponsive |
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Skeptic |
One who doubt's |
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Insipid, vapid |
Lack of flavor, dull |
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Garrulous |
Talkative |
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Burnished |
To polish |
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Endemic |
growing or existing in a certain place or region: common in a particular area or field Inherent, belonging to same area |
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Tortuous |
having many twists and turns: complicated, long, and confusing |
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Venerated , deference |
Respected, honor,adore |
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Superseded |
to take the place of (someone or something that is old, no longer useful, etc.) : to replace (someone or something) |
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Meretricious |
attractive in a cheap or false way falsely appearing to be fair, just, or right : appearing to be true but actually false Full Definition1 obsolete : showy2 : having deceptive attraction or allure3 : having a false look of truth or genuineness : sophistic <specious reasoning> ExamplesHe justified his actions with specious reasoning.a specious argument that really does not stand up under close examination |
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Quiescent |
Not active |
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Coagulated, viscous, |
Thicken , congealed |
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Relegated |
: to put (someone or something) in a lower or less important position, rank, etc.: to give (something, such as a job or responsibility) toanother person or group: to move (a sports team) to a lower position in a league Full Definitiontransitive verb1 : to send into exile : banish2 : assign: as a : to assign to a place of insignificance or of oblivion : put out of sight or mind b : to assign to an appropriate place or situation on the basis of classification or appraisal c : to submit to someone or something for appropriate action : delegate d : to transfer (a sports team) to a lower ranking divisionsynonyms see commit ExamplesThe bill has been relegated to committee for discussion.courtiers and generals who incurred the emperor's disfavor were soon relegated to the farther reaches of the empire |
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Ineluctable |
not able to be avoided or changedFull Definition: not to be avoided, changed, or resisted : inevitable <an ineluctable fate> Examplesthe ineluctable approach of winter had many worried about the cost of heating their homes |
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Extrapolation |
Conclude, decide , judge. to form an opinion or to make an estimate about something from known facts Full Definitiontransitive verb1 : to infer (values of a variable in an unobserved interval) from values within an already observed interval2 a : to project, extend, or expand (known data or experience) into an area not known or experienced so as to arrive at a usually conjectural knowledge of the unknown area <extrapolates present trends to construct an image of the future> b : to predict by projecting past experience or known data <extrapolate public sentiment on one issue from known public reaction on others>ExamplesWe can extrapolate the number of new students entering next year by looking at how many entered in previous years.With such a small study it is impossible to extrapolate accurately. |
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Capricious |
Fickle |
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Stigma |
: a set of negative and often unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about somethingbotany : the top part in the center of a flower which receives the pollen |
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Concomitant |
happening at the same time as something else |
The drug's risks increase with the concomitant use of alcohol.an improvement in the facilities led to a concomitant improvement in morale |
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Umbrage |
feeling of being offended by what someone has said or done |
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Conundrum |
a confusing or difficult problemFull Definition1 : a riddle whose answer is or involves a pun2 a : a question or problem having only a conjectural answer b : an intricate and difficult problemExamplesthe conundrum of how an ancient people were able to build such massive structures without the benefit of today's knowledge and technology |
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Protagonist |
the main character in a novel, play, movie, etc.: an important person who is involved in a competition, conflict, or cause Full Definition1 a : the principal character in a literary work (as a drama or story) b : a leading actor, character, or participant in a literary work or real event2 : a leader, proponent, or supporter of a cause : championExamplesShe was a leading protagonist in the civil rights movement.Milton Friedman is usually cited as the leading American protagonist of monetarism |
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Fib |
Unimportant lie an untrue statement about something minor or unimportantFull Definition: a trivial or childish lieExamplesI have to admit that I told a fib when I said I enjoyed the movie.Is she telling fibs again? |
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Garnish |
to put something on (food) as a decoration ; also : to be added as a decoration to (food)Full Definition transitive verb1 a : decorate, embellish b : to add decorative or savory touches to (food or drink)2 : to equip with accessories : furnish3 : garnisheesynonyms see adorn ExamplesChocolate curls garnished the cake.a chef who never served any dish without first garnishing it |
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Unwavering |
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Careen |
to go forward quickly without control
Full Definitiontransitive verb1 : to put (a ship or boat) on a beach especially in order to clean, caulk, or repair the hull2 : to cause to heel overintransitive verb1 a : to careen a boat b : to undergo this process2 : to heel over3 : to sway from side to side : lurch <a careening carriage being pulled Examplesthe sled careened as it barreled down the hillhe careened unsteadily to the couch after hitting his head |
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Usury |
the practice of lending money and requiring the borrower to pay a high amount of interest archaic : interest2 : the lending of money with an interest charge for its use; especially : the lending of money at exorbitant interest rates3 : an unconscionable or exorbitant rate or amount of interest; specifically : interest in excess of a legal rate charged to a borrower for the use of money |
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exorbitant |
going far beyond what is fair, reasonable, or expected : too high, expensive, etc.Full Definition1 : not coming within the scope of the law2 : exceeding the customary or appropriate limits in intensity, quality, amount, or sizesynonyms see excessive ExamplesThey were charged exorbitant rates for phone calls.the cost of our stay was so exorbitant you would have thought that we had bought the hotel and not just spent a few nights there |
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Odyssey |
long journey full of adventures: a series of experiences that give knowledge or understanding to someoneFull Definition1 : a long wandering or voyage usually marked by many changes of fortune2 : an intellectual or spiritual wandering or questOther forms: plural od·ys·seysExamplesThe story is about the emotional odyssey experienced by a teenage girl.the spiritual odyssey of the deeply religious |
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Fawn |
to try to get the approval of an important or powerful person by giving that person praise, special attention, etc. Seeking favour by flattering |
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Flatter |
to praise (someone) in a way that is not sincere: to cause (someone) to feel pleased by showing respect, affection, or admiration: to show or describe (someone or something) in a way that is very favorable or too favorableFull Definitiontransitive verb1 : to praise excessively especially from motives of self-interest2 a archaic : beguile 4 b : to encourage or gratify especially with the assurance that something is right <I flatter myself that my interpretation is correct>3 a : to portray too favorably <the portrait flatters him> b : to display to advantage <candlelight often flatters the face> |
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Goad |
a pointed rod used to make an animal move forward: someone or something that urges or forces someone to do somethingFull Definition1 a : something that pains as if by pricking : thorn b : something that urges or stimulates into action : spur2 : a pointed rod used to urge on an animal Prod on or urge on |
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Prod |
to push someone or something with your finger or a pointed object: to persuade or try to persuade (someone) to do something She gave him a sharp prod in the back.He picked up a stick and used it as a prod to get the donkey moving.He needed a few prods to remember his lines. |
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Analgesic |
medical : a drug that relieves painFull Definition: an agent for producing analgesiaanalgesic adjectiveExamplesthe doctor prescribed an analgesic and rest for my injured knee |
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Demographic |
of or relating to the study of changes that occur in large groups of people over a period of time : of or relating to demographyFull Definition1 : of or relating to demography or demographics2 : relating to the dynamic balance of a population especially with regard to density and capacity for expansion or decline the qualities (such as age, sex, and income) of a specific group of people: a group of people that has a particular set of qualities |
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