Advanced Vocab Words - Set 1 Flashcards
Learn to understand and effectively use 100 advanced vocabulary words. Improve your test scores, or simply be more articulate in your daily life. Each word is used in context in a sample sentence and includes synonyms and a pronunciation guide. (200 cards)
1
Q
Define:
temerity
(tuh-mer-i-tee)
A
n. reckless confidence
The temerity of the pirate crew cost them their ship.
Root: temer (from Latin temere, meaning “rashly” or “recklessly”)
2
Q
Define:
depredate
(dep-rih-deyt)
A
v. to plunder, pillage, destroy
v. to exploit
The Vikings depredated the whole valley.
Prefix: de- (from Latin, meaning “down” or “away”), Root: pred (from Latin praedari, meaning “to plunder”)
3
Q
Define:
genuflect
(djen-yoo-flekt)
A
v. to bend knee to ground (as in worship)
v. to grovel
The king’s subjects genuflected when he entered the room.
Root: genuflect (from Latin genu, meaning “knee” and flectere, meaning “to bend”)
4
Q
Define:
wend
(wend)
A
v. to go, proceed, walk
We wended our way through the market.
Root: wend (from Old English wendan, meaning “to turn” or “to go”)
5
Q
Define:
pelagic
(puh-ladj-ik)
A
adj. relating to open seas rather than waters adjacent to land
The pelagic organism was only found in the deepest part of the ocean.
Root: pelag (from Greek pelagos, meaning “sea”)
6
Q
Define:
froward
(froh-werd)
A
adj. intractable, stubbornly disobedient, difficult to manage
The froward mule sat down and refused to move all afternoon.
Prefix: fro- (an old variant of “from”); Root: ward (indicating direction or tendency)
7
Q
Define:
punctilious
(puhngk-til-ee-uhs)
A
adj. precise, paying attention to trivialities of etiquette
A secretary who punctiliously records every detail.
Root: punct (from Latin punctum, meaning “point”); Suffix: -ilious (indicating having the quality of)
8
Q
Define:
aphorism
(af-uh-riz-uhm)
A
n. a tersely phrased truth or opinion; adage; epigram
n. a brief statement of principle; or general truth
The children had finally learned the meaning of the aphorism “You can’t have your cake and eat it too”.
Root: aphor (from Greek aphorizein, meaning “to define”); Suffix: -ism (indicating a practice or system)
9
Q
Define:
purloin
(per-loin, per-loin)
A
v. to steal
The manipulative thief purloined the diamonds after gaining the confidence of their location.
Prefix: pur- (from Old French pur, meaning “for”); Root: loin (from Old French loigner, meaning “to remove”)
10
Q
Define:
esoteric
(es-uh-ter-ik)
A
adj. intended for or understood only by a particular group
adj. not publicly disclosed; confidential
The esoteric ideas of the cult failed to enlighten many outsiders.
Root: esoter (from Greek esoterikos, meaning “inner” or “within”)
11
Q
Define:
succor
(suhk-er)
A
n. relief during a time of struggle
The Red Cross provides succor to refugees in emergency shelters.
Root: succor (from Latin succurrere, meaning “to run to help”)
12
Q
Define:
protean
(proh-tee-uhn)
A
adj. readily assuming different forms or characters, versatile
Fans regarded the protean actress as capable of playing any role.
Root: Proteus (from Greek mythology, a sea god known for changing shape)
13
Q
Define:
callous
(kal-uhs)
A
adj. insensitive; having no feeling
The callous remark upset the entire family.
Root: call (from Latin callum, meaning “hard skin”)
14
Q
Define:
proscribe
(proh-skrahyb)
A
v. to prohibit or forbid as harmful or unlawful
Citizens pushed to proscribe swimming in the polluted lake.
Prefix: pro- (indicating forward or forth); Root: scribe (from Latin scribere, meaning “to write”)
15
Q
Define:
denouement
(dey-noo-mahn)
A
n. an outcome or solution to a complex series of events
Though public interest slackened after the arsonist was caught, the denouement of the case was just as interesting as the manhunt that had preceded it.
Root: noue (from Latin nodare, meaning “to knot”); Prefix: de- (indicating removal or reversal)
16
Q
Define:
supercilious
(soo-per-sill-ee-uhs)
A
adj. arrogant, overbearing; displaying condescending superiority over someone else
His supercilious behavior drove away many of his peers.
Prefix: super- (meaning “above” or “over”); Root: cili (from Latin cilium, meaning “eyelid”)
17
Q
Define:
parley
(pahr-lee)
A
n. discussion between enemies, often to prepare terms of surrender
The longtime enemies held a parley to work on peace negotiations.
Root: parler (from French, meaning “to speak”)
18
Q
Define:
apoplectic
(ap-uh-plek-tik)
A
adj. furious; enraged; overcome with anger
When Jim found out he was fired, he apoplectically stormed out of the office.
Root: apoplex (from Greek apoplexia, meaning “a seizure”); Suffix: -tic (indicating pertaining to)
19
Q
Define:
simper
(sim-per)
A
v. to say with a coy smile; to smirk
Dave simpered a feeble attempt at an apology.
Root: simper (from Middle English simperen, meaning “to smile”)
20
Q
Define:
miscegenation
(mih-sedj-uh-ney-shuhn)
A
n. the interbreeding of different races
n. any mixture or hybrid
Miscegenation, the intermarriage or mixing of different racial groups, was historically met with social and legal barriers in many societies. But today, miscegenation is widely accepted in many societies, and interracial relationships are common and often celebrated as a sign of cultural diversity and tolerance.
Prefix: misc- (from Latin miscere, meaning “to mix”); Root: gen (from Latin genus, meaning “race” or “kind”); Suffix: -ation (indicating an action or process)
21
Q
Name the vocab term:
n. recklessness
Hint: starts with “t”
A
temerity
synonyms: arrogance, brashness, foolhardiness, audacity, impudence
His temerity in challenging the seasoned lawyer surprised everyone in the courtroom.
22
Q
Fill in the blank:
The invaders ________ the village, leaving little behind.
Hint: Starts with “d” and means “to plunder or destroy”.
A
depredated
depredate (dep-rih-deyt)
v. to plunder, pillage, destroy
v. to exploit
23
Q
Name the vocab term:
v. to bend knee to ground (as in worship)
v. to grovel
Hint: starts with “g”
A
genuflect
synonyms: kneel, beg, bow, prostrate, submit
The faithful genuflect before the altar during the ceremony.
He would rather leave the company than genuflect to the unreasonable demands of his boss.
24
Q
Fill in the blank:
After the meeting, she ________ her way through the crowded streets back home.
Hint: Starts with “w” and means “to go or proceed”.
A
wended
wend (wend)
v. to go, proceed, walk
25
# Name the vocab term:
adj. relating to open seas rather than waters adjacent to land
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
pelagic
## Footnote
synonyms: aquatic, oceanic, marine, deep-sea, oceanic
The _pelagic_ fish are adapted to life far from the shores, swimming in the deep ocean.
26
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ child refused to listen to any instructions from his teacher.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "f" and means "stubbornly disobedient".*
froward
## Footnote
*froward (**froh**-werd)*
adj. intractable, stubbornly disobedient, difficult to manage
27
# Name the vocab term:
adj. precise, paying attention to trivialities of etiquette
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
punctilious
## Footnote
synonyms: meticulous, careful, finicky, scrupulous, exacting, detailed
She was _punctilious_ about every detail of the formal dinner, ensuring everything was perfect.
28
# Fill in the blank:
His speech was filled with insightful \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ that resonated with the audience.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "tersely phrased truths".*
aphorisms
## Footnote
*aphorism (**af**-uh-riz-uhm)*
n. a tersely phrased truth or opinion; adage; epigram
n. a brief statement of principle; or general truth
29
# Name the vocab term:
v. to steal
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
purloin
## Footnote
synonyms: burglarize, cheat, swindle, filch, pilfer, take
The thief managed to _purloin_ several valuable paintings from the gallery.
30
# Fill in the blank:
The professor’s \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ lecture was difficult for those unfamiliar with the subject.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "e" and means "intended for a particular group".*
esoteric
## Footnote
*esoteric (es-uh-**ter**-ik)*
adj. intended for or understood only by a particular group
adj. not publicly disclosed; confidential
31
# Name the vocab term:
n. relief during a time of struggle
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
succor
## Footnote
synonyms: aid, comfort, refuge, support, assistance, help
The refugees sought _succor_ in neighboring countries after fleeing the conflict.
32
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ talent allowed him to excel in both acting and directing.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "able to change easily".*
protean
## Footnote
*protean (**proh**-tee-uhn)*
adj. readily assuming different forms or characters, versatile
33
# Name the vocab term:
adj. insensitive; having no feeling
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
callous
## Footnote
synonyms: soulless, cruel, heartless, unfeeling, unsympathetic
Her _callous_ remarks about the disaster shocked everyone.
34
# Fill in the blank:
The government decided to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the use of certain chemicals due to their harmful effects.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "to forbid or condemn".*
proscribe
## Footnote
*proscribe (proh-**skrahyb**)*
v. to prohibit or forbid as harmful or unlawful
35
# Name the vocab term:
n. an outcome or solution to a complex series of events
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
denouement
## Footnote
synonyms: finale, final achievement, resolution, conclusion, outcome
The _denouement_ of the mystery novel tied together all the loose ends.
36
# Fill in the blank:
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ attitude made her unpopular among her colleagues.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "s" and means "arrogantly disdainful".*
supercilious
## Footnote
*supercilious (soo-per-**sill**-ee-uhs)*
adj. arrogant, overbearing; displaying condescending superiority over someone else
37
# Name the vocab term:
n. discussion between enemies, often to prepare terms of surrender
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
parley
## Footnote
synonyms: conference, mediation, negotiation, dialogue, discussion
The generals held a _parley_ to negotiate the terms of the ceasefire.
38
# Fill in the blank:
He became \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ when he discovered the mistake in the report.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "overcome with extreme anger".*
apoplectic
## Footnote
*apoplectic (ap-uh-**plek**-tik)*
adj. furious; enraged; overcome with anger
adj. relating to a stroke
39
# Name the vocab term:
v. to say with a coy smile; to smirk
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
simper
## Footnote
synonyms: grin, leer, sneer, smirk, smirk, smile coyly
She _simpered_ at the compliment, clearly enjoying the attention.
40
# Fill in the blank:
The laws against \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ were finally repealed in the 20th century.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "m" and means "interbreeding of different racial groups".*
miscegenation
## Footnote
*miscegenation (mih-sedj-uh-**ney**-shuhn)*
n. the interbreeding of different races
n. any mixture or hybrid
41
# Define:
androgynous
| (an-**drodj**-uh-nuhs)
adj. not distinguishable between male and female
## Footnote
The name Sam is _androgynous_ because it could stand for Samantha or Samuel.
Prefix: *andro-* (from Greek *anēr*, meaning "man"); Suffix: *-gynous* (from Greek *gynē*, meaning "woman")
42
# Define:
covey
| (**kuhv**-ee)
n. a family of partridges
n. a small group
## Footnote
Outside the classroom was a _covey_ of giggling schoolgirls.
Root: *cov-* (from Middle English *covee*, meaning "brood of birds")
43
# Define:
supine
| (adj. soo-**pahyn**)
adj. inactive, lying on one's back apathetically
adj. morally slack
## Footnote
The officials exhibited a _supine_ acceptance of corruption.
Root: *supin-* (from Latin *supinus*, meaning "lying on the back")
44
# Define:
cozen
| (**kuhz**-uhn)
v. to cheat, beguile, or deceive
## Footnote
The corrupt televangelist _cozened_ money from viewers by lying about charitable intentions.
Root: *coz-* (from Italian *cozzonare*, meaning "to cheat")
45
# Define:
limpid
| (**lim**-pid)
adj. calm, untroubled, serene
adj. transparent, clear (as of water, air, or crystal)
## Footnote
The family flew a kite down by the _limpid_ blue pond.
Root: *limp-* (from Latin *limpidus*, meaning "clear")
46
# Define:
refulgent
| (rih-**fuhl**-juhnt)
adj. shining radiantly; brilliant
## Footnote
The _refulgent_ palace seemed out of place amid the poverty of the villages surrounding it.
Prefix: *re-* (from Latin, meaning "again" or "back"); Root: *fulg-* (from Latin *fulgere*, meaning "to shine")
47
# Define:
phlegmatic
| (fleg-**mat**-ik)
adj. hard to excite, calm, sluggish
adj. unemotional, stoic
## Footnote
Pete's _phlegmatic_ response was difficult for his friends to read.
Root: *phlegm-* (from Greek *phlegma*, meaning "inflammation" or "phlegm")
48
# Define:
attenuate
| (uh-**ten**-yoo-eyt)
v. to weaken or reduce in force or value
v. to make small or fine
## Footnote
The medicine _attenuated_ the fever's effect.
Prefix: *at-* (from Latin *ad-*, meaning "to"); Root: *tenu-* (from Latin *tenuis*, meaning "thin")
49
# Define:
disingenuous
| (diss-in-**djen**-yoo-uhs)
adj. lacking in sincerity or candor
## Footnote
When the oil prospector's promises were discovered to be _disingenuous_, he was run out of town.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "not"); Root: *ingenu-* (from Latin *ingenuus*, meaning "natural" or "honest")
50
# Define:
epistle
| (uh-**piss**-uhl)
n. a written message, usually a formal letter
## Footnote
The _epistle_ was hand-delivered by a confidant in order to avoid interception.
Root: *epist-* (from Greek *epistole*, meaning "letter")
51
# Define:
factitious
| (fak-**tish**-uhs)
adj. produced artificially; not natural
adj. fake
## Footnote
The _factitious_ laughter of insincere talk show hosts makes my skin crawl.
Root: *fact-* (from Latin *facere*, meaning "to make"); Suffix: *-itious* (indicating a tendency or quality)
52
# Define:
pied
| (**pahyd**)
adj. containing patches of two or more colors, usually in blotches
## Footnote
The jester's _pied_ coat was stitched together from scraps of blue and red fabric.
Root: *pie-* (from Middle English *pied*, meaning "having patches of two or more colors")
53
# Define:
militate
| (**mill**-ih-teyt)
v. to have substantial weight on preventing; to argue against; discourage.
## Footnote
The volatility of the situation _militated_ against any rash action.
Root: *milit-* (from Latin *militare*, meaning "to serve as a soldier")
54
# Define:
Stygian
| (**stidj**-ee-uhn)
adj. dark, gloomy, dismal
adj. infernal, hellish
## Footnote
The _stygian_ murk of the cave made it difficult to navigate.
Root: *Styg-* (from Greek *Styx*, meaning "the river Styx")
55
# Define:
gainsay
| (**geyn**-sey)
v. to declare false
v. to deny
v. to contradict or claim exception to
## Footnote
Evidence and witness testimony all _gainsaid_ the defendant's claims.
Prefix: *gain-* (from Old English *gean-,* meaning "against"); Root: *say* (from Old English *secgan*, meaning "to say")
56
# Define:
palliate
| (**pal**-ee-eyt)
v. to make something appear less serious; to mitigate; to alleviate
## Footnote
The student tried to _palliate_ the significance of his plagiarism.
Root: *palli-* (from Latin *palliare*, meaning "to cloak"); Suffix: *-ate* (used to form verbs)
57
# Define:
nostrum
| (**nos**-truhm)
n. cure-all, questionable remedy, or a placebo
## Footnote
An ad on television depicted a _nostrum_ that claims to cure hangovers.
Root: *nostr-* (from Latin *nostrum*, meaning "our" or "our own")
58
# Define:
obstreperous
| (uhb-**strep**-er-uhs)
adj. unruly, noisy, loudly stubborn
## Footnote
The _obstreperous_ two-year-old cried the entire train ride.
Prefix: *ob-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *streper-* (from Latin *strepere*, meaning "to make a noise")
59
# Define:
precocious
| (prih-**koh**-shuhs)
adj. unusually quick development or maturation, especially in intelligence
## Footnote
The child's _precocious_ understanding of calculus stunned his teachers.
Prefix: *pre-* (from Latin, meaning "before"); Root: *coc-* (from Latin *coquere*, meaning "to cook" or "to ripen")
60
# Define:
regale
| (rih-**geyl**)
v. to entertain; to supply lavishly
## Footnote
Steve _regaled_ his guests with exciting tales.
Root: *regal-* (from Old French *regaler*, meaning "to entertain or feast")
61
# Name the vocab term:
adj. hermaphroditic
adj. not distinguishable between male and female
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
androgynous
## Footnote
synonyms: cross-sexual, unisexual, trans-sexual, gender-neutral, ambiguous
The creature in the myth was portrayed as _androgynous_, embodying both male and female traits.
The _androgynous_ fashion trend blurred traditional gender lines in clothing.
62
# Fill in the blank:
We spotted a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of partridges in the field during our hike.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "a small flock or group".*
covey
## Footnote
*covey (**kuhv**-ee)*
n. a family of partridges
n. a small group
63
# Name the vocab term:
adj. inactive, lying on one's back apathetically
adj. morally slack
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
supine
## Footnote
synonyms: lying down, flat; apathetic, lazy, prostrate, recumbent
He lay _supine_ on the couch, unwilling to do anything productive.
The government’s _supine_ attitude towards corruption allowed it to flourish.
64
# Fill in the blank:
The con artist \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ people into giving him their life savings.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "to deceive or trick".*
cozened
## Footnote
*cozen (**kuhz**-uhn)*
v. to cheat, beguile, or deceive
65
# Name the vocab term:
adj. calm, untroubled, serene
adj. transparent, clear (as of water, air, or crystal)
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "l"*
limpid
## Footnote
synonyms: tranquil, peaceful; glassy, translucent, clear, unclouded, bright
The _limpid_ expression on her face showed she wasn’t worried at all.
The _limpid_ water of the lake made it easy to see the fish swimming below.
66
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ glow of the setting sun bathed the landscape in golden light.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "r" and means "shining brightly".*
refulgent
## Footnote
*refulgent (rih-**fuhl**-juhnt)*
adj. shining radiantly; brilliant
67
# Name the vocab term:
adj. hard to excite, calm, sluggish
adj. unemotional, stoic
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
phlegmatic
## Footnote
synonyms: apathetic, dispassionate, lethargic, unemotional, placid, indifferent
His _phlegmatic_ response to the exciting news surprised everyone.
The _phlegmatic_ soldier remained composed even in the face of danger.
68
# Fill in the blank:
The long drought \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the strength of the river’s current.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "weakened or reduced".*
attenuated
## Footnote
*attenuate (uh-**ten**-yoo-eyt)*
v. to weaken or reduce in force or value
v. to make small or fine
69
# Name the vocab term:
adj. lacking in sincerity or candor
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
disingenuous
## Footnote
synonyms: dishonest, crooked, deceitful, duplicitous, insincere
His _disingenuous_ apology did little to mend the rift between them.
70
# Fill in the blank:
The scholar wrote an \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ to his colleagues, detailing his latest findings.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "e" and means "a formal letter".*
epistle
## Footnote
*epistle (uh-**piss**-uhl)*
n. a written message, usually a formal letter
71
# Name the vocab term:
adj. produced artificially; not natural
adj. fake
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "f"*
factitious
## Footnote
synonyms: artificial, false, sham, manufactured, synthetic, spurious
The diamonds in the necklace were _factitious_ but still looked stunning.
His _factitious_ enthusiasm at the event was apparent to everyone.
72
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ horse stood out with its distinct black and white markings.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "having patches of different colors".*
pied
## Footnote
*pied (**pahyd**)*
adj. containing patches of two or more colors, usually in blotches
73
# Name the vocab term:
v. to have substantial weight or bearing on; to argue for or against
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "m"*
militate
## Footnote
synonyms: weigh, important, influential, affect, contribute, determine
The evidence presented in the trial will _militate_ heavily against the defendant.
74
# Fill in the blank:
The forest at night had a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ atmosphere, making it feel eerie and foreboding.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "s" and means "dark, gloomy, or hellish".*
stygian
## Footnote
*Stygian (**stidj**-ee-uhn)*
adj. dark, gloomy, dismal
adj. infernal, hellish
75
# Name the vocab term:
v. to declare false
v. to deny
v. to contradict or claim exception to
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "g"*
gainsay
## Footnote
synonyms: deny, disaffirm, disprove, contradict, refute, challenge
No one could _gainsay_ the facts presented in the report.
It was difficult to _gainsay_ her argument given the strong data backing it up.
76
# Fill in the blank:
The doctor prescribed medication to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the symptoms of the disease.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "to ease without curing".*
palliate
## Footnote
*palliate (**pal**-ee-eyt)*
v. to make something appear less serious; to mitigate; to alleviate
77
# Name the vocab term:
n. cure-all, questionable remedy, or a placebo
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "n"*
nostrum
## Footnote
synonyms: elixir, quick fix, aid, remedy, potion, fix
The herbalist claimed to have a _nostrum_ for every ailment, but none of them worked.
78
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ crowd refused to leave, even after the event was over.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "o" and means "noisily defiant or unruly".*
obstreperous
## Footnote
*obstreperous (uhb-**strep**-er-uhs)*
adj. unruly, noisy, loudly stubborn
79
# Name the vocab term:
adj. unusually quick development or maturation, especially in intelligence
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
precocious
## Footnote
synonyms: advanced, developed, quick, intelligent, mature, ahead of one's years, gifted
The _precocious_ child was reading at a college level by the age of 10.
80
# Fill in the blank:
He \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the guests with stories of his adventures abroad.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "r" and means "entertained or delighted".*
regaled
## Footnote
*regale (rih-**geyl**)*
v. to entertain; to feast
81
# Define:
ambit
| (**am**-bit)
n. the extent, boundary or scope of something
## Footnote
Though I find her actions reprehensible, she was acting within the _ambit_ of the law and so my hands are tied.
Root: *ambi* (from Latin *ambitus*, meaning "going around")
82
# Define:
apostate
| (uh-**poss**-teyt)
n. one who abandons a belief, cause, party or religion
## Footnote
The _apostate_ is dealt with very harshly in many religious traditions.
Prefix: *apo-* (from Greek, meaning "away from")
83
# Define:
sophistry
| (**sof**-uh-stree)
n. fallacious reasoning; faulty, although plausible, logic
## Footnote
The students were quickly convinced by the professor's _sophistry_ and did not inquire further.
Root: *soph* (from Greek *sophos*, meaning "wise")
84
# Define:
perspicuity
| (purr-spih-**kyoo**-ih-tee)
n. clarity or perceptiveness in speech, thought, or writing
## Footnote
The _perspicuity_ of the writing made a complicated topic easy for all to understand.
Root: *spec* (from Latin *specere*, meaning "to look")
85
# Define:
enjoin
| (en-**join**)
v. to command or direct an action with authority
v. to prohibit or forbid an action
## Footnote
The captain _enjoined_ his men to respect the local laws while on shore leave.
Prefix: *en-* (from Latin, meaning "in" or "on")
86
# Define:
fulsome
| (**fool**-suhm)
adj. offensively flattering or insincere.
adj. offensive to the taste
adj. generous or abundant
## Footnote
I prefer Sara's sincere criticism to all the _fulsome_ praise I receive from Deb.
Suffix: *-some* (from Old English, meaning "characterized by")
87
# Define:
imprecation
| (im-prih-**key**-shuhn)
n. a curse
## Footnote
The witch cast an _imprecation_ on the villagers.
Prefix: *im-* (from Latin, meaning "in" or "upon"), Root: *prec* (from Latin *precari*, meaning "to pray")
88
# Define:
extenuate
| (ik-**sten**-yoo-eyt)
v. to lessen the magnitude or seriousness of; to mitigate
## Footnote
The prisoner's illness may _extenuate_ the conditions of his captivity, but it shall not lead me to order his early release.
Prefix: *ex-* (from Latin, meaning "out"), Root: *tenu* (from Latin *tenuis*, meaning "thin")
89
# Define:
ineluctable
| (in-ih-**luhk**-tuh-buhl)
adj. certain, inevitable, unavoidable
## Footnote
A hectic lifestyle seems to be the _ineluctable_ product of modernity.
Prefix: *in-* (from Latin, meaning "not"), Root: *eluct* (from Latin *eluctari*, meaning "to struggle out")
90
# Define:
vitiate
| (**vish**-ee-eyt)
v. to reduce the quality of
v. to corrupt
## Footnote
The tear in the painting _vitiated_ its overall appeal and halved its appraisal cost.
Root: *vit* (from Latin *vitium*, meaning "fault" or "defect")
91
# Define:
turpitude
| (**tur**-pih-tood)
n. depravity, baseness
n. a vile or wicked act
## Footnote
Because of stealing, he was dismissed on grounds of moral _turpitude_.
Root: *turp* (from Latin *turpis*, meaning "shameful")
92
# Define:
plaintive
| (**pleyn**-tiv)
adj. mournful, sorrowful, melancholy
## Footnote
The procession was led by the _plaintive_ strains of the bagpipe.
Root: *plaint* (from Latin *plangere*, meaning "to lament")
93
# Define:
pertinacious
| (purt-n-**ey**-shuhs)
adj. holding tenaciously to a belief
adj. stubbornly unyielding
## Footnote
Her _pertinacious_ devotion to the debunked theory led her to be marginalized in the scientific community.
Prefix: *per-* (from Latin, meaning "thoroughly"), Root: *ten* (from Latin *tenere*, meaning "to hold")
94
# Define:
recreant
| (**rek**-ree-uhnt)
adj. unfaithful, disloyal to belief or principle
adj. cowardly or craven
n. one who is a coward, unfaithful, or disloyal
## Footnote
The _recreant_ knight ran from the battle.
Prefix: *re-* (from Latin, meaning "again" or "back"), Root: *cred* (from Latin *credere*, meaning "to believe")
95
# Define:
adduce
| (uh-**doos**)
v. to offer as proof in an argument
## Footnote
Seth _adduced_ several recent studies in support of his hypothesis.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to"), Root: *duc* (from Latin *ducere*, meaning "to lead")
96
# Define:
traduce
| (truh-**doos**)
v. to slander or speak maliciously of
## Footnote
As a "green energy" campaigner, I distrust politicians who habitually _traduce_ the motivations of environmentalists.
Prefix: *tra-* (variant of *trans-*, from Latin, meaning "across"), Root: *duc* (from Latin *ducere*, meaning "to lead")
97
# Define:
apposite
| (**app**-uh-zit)
adj. relevant, suitable, or fitting
## Footnote
Though clever, Dmitry's pun was not _apposite_ to the solemn occasion.
Prefix: *ap-* (variant of *ad-*, from Latin, meaning "to"), Root: *posit* (from Latin *ponere*, meaning "to place")
98
# Define:
discursive
| (diss-**kurr**-siv)
adj. rambling aimlessly through a wide range of subjects.
## Footnote
The poor speaker gave a rambling, _discursive_ speech.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart"), Root: *cur* (from Latin *currere*, meaning "to run")
99
# Define:
avocation
| (av-uh-**key**-shuhn)
n. an extracurricular activity; a hobby
## Footnote
My favorite _avocation_ is playing baseball in the summertime.
Prefix: *a-* (variant of *ab-*, from Latin, meaning "away from"), Root: *voc* (from Latin *vocare*, meaning "to call")
100
# Define:
adumbrate
| (uh-**duhm**-breyt)
v. to foreshadow vaguely
v. to produce a faint outline or resemblance of something
## Footnote
The first volume merely _adumbrates_ the basics of the story to be developed in the next two books.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to"), Root: *umbr* (from Latin *umbra*, meaning "shadow")
101
# Name the vocab term:
n. the extent, boundary or scope of something
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
ambit
## Footnote
synonyms: compass, extension, range, scope, reach, limits
The discussion remained within the _ambit_ of the assigned topics for the meeting.
102
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ was shunned by his former comrades after leaving the movement.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "one who abandons their faith or cause".*
apostate
## Footnote
*apostate (uh-**poss**-teyt)*
n. one who abandons a belief, cause, party or religion
103
# Name the vocab term:
n. fallacious reasoning; faulty, although plausible, logic
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
sophistry
## Footnote
synonyms: fallacy, inconsistency, misleading argument, specious reasoning
The politician's argument was nothing more than _sophistry_, designed to mislead the public.
104
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of her speech made even the most complex ideas easy to understand.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "clarity in expression".*
perspicuity
## Footnote
*perspicuity (purr-spih-**kyoo**-ih-tee)*
n. clarity or perceptiveness in speech, thought, or writing
105
# Name the vocab term:
v. to command or direct an action with authority
v. to prohibit or forbid an action
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "e"*
enjoin
## Footnote
synonyms: order, command; disallow, outlaw, dictate, direct, mandate
The court _enjoined_ the company to halt its illegal practices immediately.
The rules _enjoin_ students from bringing their phones to class.
106
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ praise made everyone uncomfortable, as it felt exaggerated and fake.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "f" and means "excessively flattering or abundant".*
fulsome
## Footnote
*fulsome (**fool**-suhm)*
adj. offensively flattering or insincere.
adj. offensive to the taste
107
# Name the vocab term:
n. a curse
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "i"*
imprecation
## Footnote
synonyms: spell, hex, malediction, anathema, curse
The angry witch muttered an _imprecation_ under her breath as she walked away.
108
# Fill in the blank:
The lawyer tried to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the defendant's actions by highlighting his difficult upbringing.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "e" and means "to lessen the seriousness of".*
extenuate
## Footnote
*extenuate (ik-**sten**-yoo-eyt)*
v. to lessen the magnitude or seriousness of; to mitigate
109
# Name the vocab term:
adj. certain, inevitable, unavoidable
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "i"*
ineluctable
## Footnote
synonyms: inescapable, destined, inevitable, unavoidable, certain
The _ineluctable_ passage of time affects everyone, no matter their status.
110
# Fill in the blank:
His repeated lies \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the credibility of his testimony.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "v" and means "spoiled or corrupted".*
vitiated
## Footnote
*vitiate (**vish**-ee-eyt)*
v. to reduce the quality of
v. to corrupt
111
# Name the vocab term:
n. depravity, baseness
n. a vile act
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
turpitude
## Footnote
synonyms: depravity, baseness, wickedness, immorality, corruption
The _turpitude_ of the criminal’s actions shocked the entire community.
His _turpitude_ was evident when he betrayed his own family for money.
112
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ melody of the violin expressed a deep sense of loss.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "expressing sorrow".*
plaintive
## Footnote
*plaintive (**pleyn**-tiv)*
adj. mournful, sorrowful, melancholy
113
# Name the vocab term:
adj. holding tenaciously to a belief
adj. stubbornly unyielding
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
pertinacious
## Footnote
synonyms: stubbornly unyielding, tenacious, persistent, dogged, resolute
The _pertinacious_ activist refused to back down, despite the opposition.
His _pertinacious_ nature made it difficult to convince him to change his mind.
114
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ knight abandoned his comrades in their hour of need.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "r" and means "cowardly or unfaithful".*
recreant
## Footnote
*recreant (**rek**-ree-uhnt)*
adj. unfaithful, disloyal to belief or principle
adj. cowardly or craven
n. one who is a coward, unfaithful, or disloyal
115
# Name the vocab term:
v. to offer as proof in an argument
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
adduce
## Footnote
synonyms: introduce, exhibit, cite, bring forward, present, mention
The lawyer _adduced_ several pieces of evidence to support her client's innocence.
116
# Fill in the blank:
He was quick to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ his rivals, spreading false rumors to damage their reputations.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "to speak maliciously or slander".*
traduce
## Footnote
*traduce (truh-**doos**)*
v. to slander or speak maliciously of
117
# Name the vocab term:
adj. relevant, suitable, or fitting
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
apposite
## Footnote
synonyms: pertinent, timely, appropriate, fitting, applicable, relevant
His _apposite_ remarks during the meeting helped to clarify the situation.
118
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ lecture covered topics ranging from philosophy to pop culture.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "rambling or wandering in speech".*
discursive
## Footnote
*discursive (diss-**kurr**-siv)*
adj. rambling aimlessly through a wide range of subjects
adj. drawing conclusions based on reason (as opposed to intuition)
119
# Name the vocab term:
n. an extracurricular activity; a hobby
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
avocation
## Footnote
synonyms: hobby, recreation, pastime, interest, pursuit, diversion
Her _avocation_ of painting provided a creative outlet outside of her day job.
120
# Fill in the blank:
The author \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the tragic ending early in the novel.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "to foreshadow or outline".*
adumbrated
## Footnote
*adumbrate (uh-**duhm**-breyt)*
v. to foreshadow vaguely
v. to produce a faint outline or resemblance of something
121
# Define:
alchemy
| (**al**-kuh-me)
n. the medieval study of transforming lead into gold
## Footnote
Although it was never proven possible, _alchemy_ is in many ways related to the chemistry we study today.
Prefix: *al-* (from Arabic, meaning "the"); Root: *chem* (from Greek *khemia*, meaning "art of transmuting metals")
122
# Define:
allege
| (uh-**ledge**)
v. to state that something is true without providing proof
## Footnote
The neighbors _alleged_ that it was the store owner who started the fire, but it turned out that he had been out of town after speaking with him.
Prefix: *al-* (from Latin *ad-*, meaning "to"); Root: *leg* (from Latin *legare*, meaning "to send" or "to bring")
123
# Define:
allude
| (uh-**lewd**)
v. to refer to another concept indirectly
## Footnote
She would occasionally _allude_ to a summer house, though nobody knew exactly where it was.
Prefix: *al-* (from Latin *ad-*, meaning "to"); Root: *lud* (from Latin *ludere*, meaning "to play")
124
# Define:
altruism
| (**al-**true-iz-um)
n. selfless concern for others
## Footnote
Many charities were formed thanks to Rajiv's _altruism_ and generosity.
Root: *altr* (from Latin *alter*, meaning "other")
125
# Define:
ambivalence
| (am-**biv**-uh-lunce)
n. confused or contradicting feelings
## Footnote
The bride's _ambivalence_ towards the color of the roses meant the groom had to decide.
Prefix: *ambi-* (from Latin, meaning "both"); Root: *val* (from Latin *valere*, meaning "to be strong")
126
# Define:
amble
| (**am**-bul)
v. to walk slowly
## Footnote
The old man _ambled_ over to our table and started up a conversation.
Root: *ambul* (from Latin *ambulare*, meaning "to walk")
127
# Define:
ameliorate
| (uh-**meal**-yuh-rate)
v. to make better
## Footnote
The new medicine _ameliorated_ her condition rather quickly.
Prefix: *a-* (from Latin *ad-*, meaning "to"); Root: *melior* (from Latin, meaning "better")
128
# Define:
amenable
| (uh-**men**-ih-bull)
adj. open to suggestion or criticism
adj. accountable
## Footnote
A good manager is _amenable_ to his employee's new ideas.
Prefix: *a-* (from Latin *ad-*, meaning "to"); Root: *men* (from Latin *minari*, meaning "to threaten")
129
# Define:
analgesic
| (ann-ul-**djee**-zick)
n. pain reliever
## Footnote
After the surgery, the doctor prescribed an _analgesic_ for her patient's leg.
Prefix: *an-* (from Greek, meaning "without"); Root: *alg* (from Greek *algos*, meaning "pain")
130
# Define:
anecdote
| (**ann**-ik-dote)
n. a story of a specific incident, used as an example or for entertainment
## Footnote
The actor's acceptance speech included an _anecdote_ about his first audition.
Prefix: *an-* (from Greek, meaning "not"); Root: *ecdote* (from Greek *ekdotos*, meaning "published")
131
# Define:
annul
| (uh-**null**)
v. to declare invalid
## Footnote
The couple had their marriage _annulled_ when it was revealed that the groom was still married to another woman.
Prefix: *an-* (from Latin *ad-*, meaning "to"); Root: *nul* (from Latin *nullus*, meaning "none")
132
# Define:
didactic
| (die-**dak-**tick)
adj. overly instructive, educational
## Footnote
He may mean well, but Pat's efforts to help came across as fussy and _didactic_.
Root: *didact* (from Greek *didaktikos*, meaning "apt at teaching")
133
# Define:
diffident
| (**diff**-ih-dunt)
adj. lacking confidence; restrained or reserved
## Footnote
Since it was her first day, Lucy ventured only _diffident_ answers to her superiors' requests for input.
Prefix: *dif-* (from Latin *dis-*, meaning "apart"); Root: *fid* (from Latin *fidere*, meaning "to trust")
134
# Define:
diffuse
| (v. dih-**fewz**; adj. dih-**fewss**)
v. to spread out
adj. widely spread, scattered
adj. wordy and rambling
## Footnote
Such a _diffuse_ network of law enforcement will not be able to eliminate all instances of crime.
Prefix: *dif-* (from Latin *dis-*, meaning "apart"); Root: *fus* (from Latin *fundere*, meaning "to pour")
135
# Define:
dilapidated
| (dih-**lap**-ih-date-id)
adj. ruined, worn down
## Footnote
The abandoned house was _dilapidated_ from years of neglect.
Prefix: *di-* (from Latin *dis-*, meaning "apart"); Root: *lapid* (from Latin *lapis*, meaning "stone")
136
# Define:
dilate
| (**die-**late)
v. to widen or enlarge
v. to give a long speech on a subject
## Footnote
The eye drops _dilated_ his pupils so the eye doctor could better examine them.
Prefix: *di-* (from Latin *dis-*, meaning "apart"); Root: *lat* (from Latin *latus*, meaning "wide")
137
# Define:
dilettante
| (**dill**-ih-tont)
n. a person with an interest in a topic without really commiting
n. a patron of the arts
## Footnote
The dance school accepted *_dilettante_*s as well as trained professionals.
Root: *dilett* (from Italian *dilettare*, meaning "to delight")
138
# Define:
dirge
| (**durge**)
n. a mournful song
## Footnote
We heard a chorus singing a _dirge_ as the funeral procession began.
Root: *dirg* (from Latin *dirigere*, meaning "to direct")
139
# Define:
disabuse
| (diss-uh-**bewz**)
v. to free from a misconception or error in thought
## Footnote
Luke made it his goal to _disabuse_ his students of the notion that they didn't need to work hard to do well.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart"); Root: *abuse* (from Latin *abuti*, meaning "to misuse")
140
# Define:
disaffect
| (diss-uh-**fect**)
v. to make someone lose loyalty or affection
## Footnote
Her attention-seeking behavior _disaffected_ many of her classmates.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart"); Root: *affect* (from Latin *affectus*, meaning "emotion")
141
# Name the vocab term:
n. the medieval study of transforming lead into gold
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
alchemy
## Footnote
synonyms: sorcery, wizardry, medieval science, magical transformation, mysticism, theurgy
Medieval scientists pursued _alchemy_, hoping to turn base metals into gold.
142
# Fill in the blank:
He \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ that the company was involved in illegal activities, but no evidence was presented.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "claimed without proof".*
alleged
## Footnote
*allege (uh-**ledge**)*
v. to state that something is true without providing proof
143
# Name the vocab term:
v. to refer to another concept indirectly
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
allude
## Footnote
synonyms: bring up, imply, mention, hint at, suggest, insinuate
The author _alluded_ to a famous historical event in the opening chapter of the novel.
144
# Fill in the blank:
Her decision to volunteer at the shelter was an act of pure \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "selfless concern for others".*
altruism
## Footnote
*altruism (**al-**true-iz-um)*
n. selfless concern for others
145
# Name the vocab term:
n. confused or contradicting feelings
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
ambivalence
## Footnote
synonyms: confusion, dilemma, hesitation, uncertainty, mixed feelings, conflict
His _ambivalence_ about moving to a new city made the decision difficult.
146
# Fill in the blank:
They \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ along the park path, enjoying the sunny afternoon.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "walked slowly and leisurely".*
ambled
## Footnote
*amble (**am**-bul)*
v. to walk slowly
147
# Name the vocab term:
v. to make better
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
ameliorate
## Footnote
synonyms: amend, help, improve, enhance, alleviate
The government launched several initiatives to _ameliorate_ living conditions in the city.
148
# Fill in the blank:
She was \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ to feedback and worked hard to improve her skills.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "open to suggestion or cooperation".*
amenable
## Footnote
*amenable (uh-**men**-ih-bull)*
adj. open to suggestion or criticism
adj. accountable
149
# Name the vocab term:
n. pain reliever
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
analgesic
## Footnote
synonyms: painkiller, soother, anodyne, remedy, analgesic agent
The doctor prescribed an _analgesic_ to help manage the patient's pain after surgery.
150
# Fill in the blank:
He shared a humorous \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ about his childhood during the family gathering.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "a short, amusing or interesting story".*
anecdote
## Footnote
*anecdote (**ann**-ik-dote)*
n. a story of a specific incident, used as an example or for entertainment
151
# Name the vocab term:
v. to declare invalid
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
annul
## Footnote
synonyms: void, abolish, cancel, invalidate, nullify, revoke
The court decided to _annul_ the contract due to a breach of terms.
152
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ tone made it difficult for the students to engage with the lesson.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "intended to teach".*
didactic
## Footnote
*didactic (die-**dak-**tick)*
adj. overly instructive or preachy
153
# Name the vocab term:
adj. lacking confidence; restrained or reserved
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
diffident
## Footnote
synonyms: hesitant, unconfident, shy, timid, self-doubting
Her _diffident_ manner made her seem shy during the presentation, though her ideas were strong.
154
# Fill in the blank:
The scent of flowers \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ through the air as we entered the garden.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "spread out or scattered".*
diffused
## Footnote
*diffuse (v. dih-**fewz**; adj. dih-**fewss**)*
v. to spread out
adj. widely spread, scattered
adj. wordy and rambling
155
# Name the vocab term:
adj. ruined, worn down
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
dilapidated
## Footnote
synonyms: ramshackle, wasted, decayed, crumbling, deteriorated, neglected
The _dilapidated_ house on the corner had been abandoned for years.
156
# Fill in the blank:
The doctor used eye drops to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ his pupils for the examination.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "to expand or speak at length".*
dilate
## Footnote
*dilate (**die-**late)*
v. to widen or enlarge
v. to give a long speech on a subject
157
# Name the vocab term:
n. a person with an interest in a topic without really commiting
n. a patron of the arts
## Footnote
Hint: starts with "d"
dilettante
## Footnote
synonyms: green, unskilled; artist, connoisseur, amateur, enthusiast, hobbyist
As a _dilettante_, he dabbled in painting but never took it seriously.
158
# Fill in the blank:
The choir sang a somber \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ at the funeral.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "a funeral song".*
dirge
## Footnote
*dirge (**durge**)*
n. a mournful song
159
# Name the vocab term:
v. to free from a misconception or error in thought
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
disabuse
## Footnote
synonyms: correct, debunk, enlighten, clarify, set straight
He worked hard to _disabuse_ his friend of the belief in a common conspiracy theory.
160
# Fill in the blank:
The manager’s harsh treatment of employees began to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ many from the company.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "to alienate the affection of".*
disaffect
## Footnote
*disaffect (diss-uh-**fect**)*
v. to make someone lose loyalty or affection
161
# Define:
discern
| (dih-**surn**)
v. to recognize, to recognize as different
## Footnote
From a distance, it was difficult for Josh to _discern_ who was waving at him.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "asunder"); Root: *cern* (from Latin *cernere*, meaning "to separate" or "to distinguish")
162
# Define:
discomfit
| (diss-**kum**-fit)
v. to unsettle
v. to upset or prevent from succeeding
## Footnote
The presence of the victim's family at the trial _discomfited_ the accused.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "asunder"); Root: *comfit* (from Latin *confīcere*, meaning "to make" or "to prepare")
163
# Define:
hackneyed
| (**hack**-need)
adj. overdone or cliché
## Footnote
The student's poem contained the _hackneyed_ expressions that typically fill teenage diaries.
Root: *hackney* (from Middle English, meaning "to use a horse for ordinary riding"), Suffix: *-ed* (used to form the past participle of regular verbs)
164
# Define:
hallmark
| (**hall-**mark)
n. a unique, identifying trait
n. a mark used to indicate the purity of certain metals
## Footnote
Complete obedience is the _hallmark_ of a good soldier.
Root: *hall* (from Old English *heall*, meaning "large room" or "hall"); Root: *mark* (from Old English *mearc*, meaning "boundary" or "sign")
165
# Define:
harangue
| (huh-**rang**)
v. to speak with intense emotions
n. a rant
## Footnote
The lobbyists arrived at the senator's office expecting to make a deal, but instead they received a 45-minute _harangue_ from the angry politician.
Root: *harangue* (from Old Italian *aringare*, meaning "to speak in public")
166
# Define:
hedonism
| (**heed-**in-iz-um)
n. dedication to pursuing pleasure
## Footnote
Jake's _hedonism_ became apparent when he quit his job rather than cancel his trip to the Bahamas.
Root: *hedon* (from Greek *hēdonē*, meaning "pleasure"); Suffix: *-ism* (from Greek *-ismos*, indicating a practice or belief)
167
# Define:
tan
| (**tan**)
v. to whip
v. to make leather out of animal hide
## Footnote
He spent days _tanning_ the leather properly.
Root: *tan* (from Old English *tannian*, meaning "to convert hide into leather")
168
# Define:
heretical
| (huh-**ret**-ih-kull)
adj. differing from official beliefs
## Footnote
Galileo's discoveries of the nature of Earth's place in the universe were considered _heretical_ at the time.
Root: *heretic* (from Greek *hairetikos*, meaning "able to choose"); Suffix: *-al* (forming adjectives, meaning "relating to")
169
# Define:
hieroglyphic
| (high-ruh-**glif**-ik)
adj. difficult to understand, mysterious
## Footnote
The students could not read the teacher's _hieroglyphic_ writing on the board.
Root: *hieros* (from Greek, meaning "sacred"); Root: *glyph* (from Greek *gluphē*, meaning "carving"); Suffix: *-ic* (forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")
170
# Define:
homogenous
| (hoe-**modj**-ih-nus)
adj. composed of similar or identical parts
## Footnote
The audience was mostly a _homogenous_ group of fashion design students, though one or two engineering students also attended.
Prefix: *homo-* (from Greek, meaning "same"); Root: *gen* (from Greek *genos*, meaning "kind" or "race"); Suffix: *-ous* (forming adjectives, meaning "full of")
171
# Define:
hone
| (**hone**)
v. to perfect
v. to sharpen
## Footnote
The swimmers spent all day in the water trying to _hone_ their skills before the meet.
Root: *hone* (from Old English *hān*, meaning "stone" or "rock")
172
# Define:
husband
| (**huz**-bund)
v. to conserve
## Footnote
The campers knew they would have to _husband_ their supplies on their trip.
Root: *hus* (from Old Norse *hús*, meaning "house"); Root: *band* (from Old Norse *bóndi*, meaning "occupier and tiller of the soil")
173
# Define:
nonplussed
| (non-**plust**)
adj. confused
## Footnote
She was _nonplussed_ when her mother scolded her for no apparent reason.
Prefix: *non-* (from Latin, meaning "not"); Root: *plussed* (from Latin *plus*, meaning "more")
174
# Define:
noxious
| (**knock**-shuss)
adj. harmful in a physical or moral way
## Footnote
Unfortunately, the group did not notice the _noxious_ gas until it had claimed several victims.
Root: *nox* (from Latin *noxius*, meaning "harmful"); Suffix: *-ious* (forming adjectives, meaning "characterized by")
175
# Define:
nuance
| (**new**-awnss)
n. a small difference
## Footnote
A trained scientist is sensitive to the _nuances_ between these two seemingly identical procedures.
Root: *nuance* (from Latin *nubes*, meaning "cloud")
176
# Define:
obdurate
| (**ob**-duh-ritt)
adj. stubborn; inflexible and unyielding
adj. emotionally cold; not compassionate
## Footnote
Even when the witness began to cry, the accused remained _obdurate_ and detached.
Prefix: *ob-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *dur* (from Latin *durus*, meaning "hard"); Suffix: *-ate* (forming adjectives, meaning "having the quality of")
177
# Define:
obsequious
| (ob-**see**-kwee-us)
adj. very submissive and flattering
## Footnote
In industries where _obsequious_ service is expected, one generally leaves a tip.
Prefix: *ob-* (from Latin, meaning "toward"); Root: *sequ* (from Latin *sequi*, meaning "to follow"); Suffix: *-ious* (forming adjectives, meaning "characterized by")
178
# Define:
obstinate
| (**ob**-stuh-nitt)
adj. stubborn, unyielding to change an opinion
## Footnote
The _obstinate_ woman refused to move out of the other customers' way.
Prefix: *ob-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *stin* (from Latin *stare*, meaning "to stand"); Suffix: *-ate* (forming adjectives, meaning "having the quality of")
179
# Define:
obviate
| (**ob**-vee-ehyt)
v. to anticipate and prevent
v. to make obsolete
## Footnote
The Internet has all but _obviated_ the need for radio stations.
Prefix: *ob-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *via* (from Latin, meaning "way" or "road"); Suffix: *-ate* (forming verbs, meaning "to make")
180
# Define:
occlude
| (uh-**clued**)
v. to close or block off
v. to combine opposite surfaces
## Footnote
The only way out of the cabin was _occluded_ by a mound of fresh snow.
Prefix: *oc-* (variant of *ob-*, from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *clude* (from Latin *claudere*, meaning "to close")
181
# Name the vocab term:
v. to see clearly
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
discern
## Footnote
synonyms: note, notice, focus, detect, perceive, distinguish
She was able to _discern_ the hidden meaning behind his words after careful reflection.
182
# Fill in the blank:
The unexpected question \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the speaker, causing him to lose his train of thought.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "embarrassed or disconcerted".*
discomfited
## Footnote
*discomfit (diss-**kum**-fit)*
v. to unsettle
v. to upset or prevent from succeeding
183
# Name the vocab term:
adj. overdone or cliché
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
hackneyed
## Footnote
synonyms: tired, common, trite, stale, unoriginal
The movie’s plot was filled with _hackneyed_ dialogue that felt tired and unoriginal.
184
# Fill in the blank:
Attention to detail is the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of a great designer.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "h" and means "a distinctive feature or trait".*
hallmark
## Footnote
*hallmark (**hall-**mark)*
n. a unique, identifying trait
n. a mark used to indicate the purity of certain metals
185
# Name the vocab term:
v. to speak with intense emotions
n. a rant
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
harangue
## Footnote
synonyms: diatribe, tirade, speech, lecture, oration
The coach _harangued_ his team after their lackluster performance.
His _harangue_ about politics lasted for nearly an hour.
186
# Fill in the blank:
His lifestyle of constant parties and indulgence was a clear example of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "h" and means "pursuit of pleasure".*
hedonism
## Footnote
*hedonism (**heed-**in-iz-um)*
n. dedication to pursuing pleasure
187
# Name the vocab term:
v. to whip
v. to make leather out of animal hide
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
tan
## Footnote
synonyms: flog, beat, treat, process, skin
In old times, sailors were often _tanned_ for disobedience.
The workers _tanned_ the hides to create durable leather goods.
188
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ views on religion caused him to be ostracized by the community.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "h" and means "holding beliefs contrary to accepted doctrine".*
heretical
## Footnote
*heretical (huh-**ret**-ih-kull)*
adj. differing from official beliefs
189
# Name the vocab term:
adj. difficult to understand, mysterious
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
hieroglyphic
## Footnote
synonyms: unclear, unreadable, cryptic, enigmatic, puzzling, obscure
The professor’s notes were so _hieroglyphic_ that no one could make sense of them.
190
# Fill in the blank:
The population of the small town was largely \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, with little cultural diversity.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "h" and means "of the same kind".*
homogenous
## Footnote
*homogenous (hoe-**modj**-ih-nus)*
adj. composed of similar or identical parts
191
# Name the vocab term:
v. to perfect
v. to sharpen
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
hone
## Footnote
synonyms: train, discipline; whet, grind, refine, enhance, improve
She spent years _honing_ her skills as a pianist to reach a professional level.
He used a stone to _hone_ the blade of his knife.
192
# Fill in the blank:
They carefully \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ their resources to ensure they would last through the winter.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "h" and means "to manage resources carefully".*
husbanded
## Footnote
*husband (**huz**-bund)*
v. to conserve
193
# Name the vocab term:
adj. confused
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "n"*
nonplussed
## Footnote
synonyms: perplexed, baffled, puzzled, bewildered, astonished, flabbergasted
He was _nonplussed_ by the strange behavior of his coworkers.
194
# Fill in the blank:
The factory emitted \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ fumes that were dangerous to both the environment and the workers.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "n" and means "harmful or poisonous".*
noxious
## Footnote
*noxious (**knock**-shuss)*
adj. harmful in a physical or moral way
195
# Name the vocab term:
n. a small difference
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "n"*
nuance
## Footnote
synonyms: degree, subtlety, shade, distinction, variation
The actor’s performance captured every _nuance_ of the character’s emotions.
196
# Fill in the blank:
Despite their pleas, the judge remained \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ in his decision to impose the harshest penalty.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "o" and means "stubbornly refusing to change".*
obdurate
## Footnote
*obdurate (**ob**-duh-ritt)*
adj. emotionally cold; not compassionate
197
# Name the vocab term:
adj. very submissive and flattering
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "o"*
obsequious
## Footnote
synonyms: flattering, sycophantic, servile, fawning, subservient
His _obsequious_ behavior towards his boss made him seem insincere and desperate for approval.
198
# Fill in the blank:
Despite all the evidence, he remained \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ in his opinion.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "o" and means "stubborn and inflexible".*
obstinate
## Footnote
*obstinate (**ob**-stuh-nitt)*
adj. stubborn
199
# Name the vocab term:
v. to anticipate and prevent
v. to make obsolete
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "o"*
obviate
## Footnote
synonyms: anticipate, counteract; inhibit, stymie, prevent, eliminate, preclude
The new safety measures were put in place to _obviate_ potential accidents.
The introduction of digital cameras quickly _obviated_ the need for film.
200
# Fill in the blank:
The dentist noticed that the patient’s teeth did not \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ properly, causing discomfort.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "o" and means "to block or close off".*
occlude
## Footnote
*occlude (uh-**clued**)*
v. to close or block off
v. to combine opposite surfaces
