Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM

Browse over 1 million classes created by top students, professors, publishers, and experts.


See full index

GRE Vocab Genius > Advanced Vocab Words - Set 8 > Flashcards

Advanced Vocab Words - Set 8 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.

You may prefer our related Brainscape-certified flashcards:
GRE® Vocabulary flashcards GRE® Psychology flashcards
1
Q

Define:

nonchalant

(non-shuh-lont)

A

adj. casually unconcerned

Lauren was nonchalant about being chosen as valedictorian; she simply didn’t think it was a big deal.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Define:

oscillate

(oss-ih-lehyt)

A

v. to move or swing from side to side

v. to waver between conflicting positions

Her feelings towards her cynical commanding officer oscillated between admiration and disgust.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Define:

ostentatious

(oss-ten-tay-shuss)

A

adj. intended to impress

adj. characterized by pretension

She loves to show off that ostentatious ring her rich husband got for her.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Define:

overwrought

(oh-vur-rawt)

A

adj. deeply agitated or anxious

Everyone in the family was overwrought with the thought that the children might be in danger .

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

Define:

pacific

(puh-sif-ick)

A

adj. of a peaceful nature

adj. promoting peace and conflict resolution

The government decided to pursue a pacific policy and call back its troops on the border.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Define:

palatable

(pal-ih-tuh-bull)

A

adj. acceptable to one’s taste or mind

Though clearly necessary to balance the budget, unpopular tax increases are not palatable to any political party.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

Define:

perennial

(puh-ren-ee-ul)

A

adj. endless

adj. recurring over and over

Not being able to pay rent on time was a perennial problem for him.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

Define:

perfidy

(per-fih-dee)

A

n. a betrayal of trust

The soldier was known for his loyalty, so his act of perfidy was particularly shocking to his superior officers.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

Define:

perfunctory

(per-funk-tuh-ree)

A

adj. done as a formality, without attention to detail

Her apology was clearly only a perfunctory gesture and not truly heartfelt.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

Define:

pernicious

(per-nish-us)

A

adj. harmful; hurtful, especially in a slow or subtle way

The pernicious effects of money in politics are hardly unique to this country.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

Define:

perspicacity

(per-spih-kass-ih-tee)

A

n. sharp powers of observation

The writer’s perspicacity made it easy for her to understand and write about human nature.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

Define:

perturb

(purr-turb)

A

v. to disturb or cause disorder, esp. in one’s mental state

Even her sleep was perturbed by her obsession over her credit card debt.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

Define:

placate

(play-kate)

A

v. to ease another’s anger

Lewis attempted to placate the angry woman whose car had been hit, but she continued screaming and pacing back and forth.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

Define:

placid

(plass-id)

A

adj. free from disturbance

There currently reigns a placid atmosphere at City Hall, but don’t expect it to last much longer.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Define:

pivotal

(piv-uh-tul)

A

adj. of crucial importance

The audience was enraged when the film reel broke during a pivotal scene in the movie.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

Define:

pragmatic

(prag-mat-ick)

A

adj. guided by practical experience and observation

Her pragmatic attitude often put her at odds with her idealistic peers, whom she called unrealistic and naive.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

Define:

predilection

(pred-ih-leck-shun)

A

n. preference; a strong liking for

He had a predilection for expensive cars that was hard on his wallet.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

Define:

preside

(prih-zahyd)

A

v. to be in a position of authority over a group

The newly-elected president presided over the first meeting of the council in September.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

Define:

prevaricate

(pruh-vair-ih-kate)

A

v. to be deliberately ambiguous in order to hide the truth; to lie

The guest chose to prevaricate by answering the host’s questions with unrelated anecdotes.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

Define:

probity

(pro-bih-tee)

A

n. honesty and decency

The group chose Eduardo to represent them, not only because he was the eldest, but because he had shown the most probity during their discussions.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. casually unconcerned

A

nonchalant

(non-shuh-lont)

synonyms: easygoing, careless, indifferent, unconcerned

The student remained nonchalant despite the looming exam.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to move or swing from side to side

v. to waver between conflicting positions

A

oscillate

(oss-ih-lehyt)

synonyms: dangle, sway; change, alternate, fluctuate, vacillate

The pendulum began to oscillate steadily after being released.

She continued to oscillate between two job offers without making a decision.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. intended to impress

adj. characterized by pretension

A

ostentatious

(oss-ten-tay-shuss)

synonyms: showy, flashy, pretentious, flamboyant, extravagant

His ostentatious display of wealth drew unwanted attention.

She wore an ostentatious gown that outshone everyone at the party.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. deeply agitated or anxious

A

overwrought

(oh-vur-rawt)

synonyms: frantic, wound up, nervous, agitated, anxious

She felt overwrought after hearing the unsettling news.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. of a peaceful nature

adj. promoting peace and conflict resolution

A

pacific

(puh-sif-ick)

synonyms: soothing, peaceful, conciliatory, calm, tranquil

The pacific tone of the speaker calmed the restless crowd.

Her pacific approach to conflict resolution was admirable.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. acceptable to one’s taste or mind

A

palatable

(pal-ih-tuh-bull)

synonyms: delicious, agreeable, acceptable, tasty, enjoyable

The dish was surprisingly palatable, even for the picky eater.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. endless

adj. recurring over and over

A

perennial

(puh-ren-ee-ul)

synonyms: enduring, perpetual, ceaseless, everlasting, constant

The garden was filled with perennial flowers that bloomed each spring.

Her perennial optimism inspired those around her.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a betrayal of trust

A

perfidy

(per-fih-dee)

synonyms: treachery, betrayal, corruption, disloyalty, faithlessness

His perfidy shattered the friendship they had built over the years.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. done as a formality, without attention to detail

A

perfunctory

(per-funk-tuh-ree)

synonyms: automatic, habitual, careless, routine, mechanical

She gave a perfunctory nod, barely listening to the conversation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. harmful; hurtful

A

pernicious

(per-nish-us)

synonyms: damaging, devastating, harmful, malignant, destructive

The pernicious effects of the pollution were evident in the dying trees.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
31
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. acute perception

A

perspicacity

(per-spih-kass-ih-tee)

synonyms: insight, astuteness, discernment, perception, sharpness

Her perspicacity allowed her to see through the deception.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
32
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to disturb or cause disorder, esp. in one’s mental state

A

perturb

(purr-turb)

synonyms: unsettle, alarm, disturb, agitate, trouble

The unexpected news began to perturb her usual calm demeanor.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
33
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to ease another’s anger

A

placate

(play-kate)

synonyms: soothe, pacify, appease, calm, assuage

She tried to placate her friend after their heated argument.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
34
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. free from disturbance

A

placid

(plass-id)

synonyms: composed, calm, tranquil, serene, peaceful

The lake was placid, reflecting the clear blue sky.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
35
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. of crucial importance

A

pivotal

(piv-uh-tul)

synonyms: critical, crucial, essential, key, significant

His research proved to be pivotal in the development of new treatments.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
36
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. guided by practical experience and observation

A

pragmatic

(prag-mat-ick)

synonyms: businesslike, efficient, practical, realistic, sensible

The committee took a pragmatic approach to solving the issue.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
37
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. preference; a strong liking for

A

predilection

(pred-ih-leck-shun)

synonyms: inclination, love, fondness, preference, tendency

She has a predilection for classic literature over modern novels.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
38
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to be in a position of authority over a group

A

preside

(prih-zahyd)

synonyms: administer, conduct, direct, oversee, manage

The judge will preside over the case next week.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
39
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to be deliberately ambiguous in order to hide the truth; to lie

A

prevaricate

(pruh-vair-ih-kate)

synonyms: deceive, garble, misrepresent, equivocate, lie

When questioned, he tended to prevaricate rather than give a straight answer.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
40
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. honesty and decency

A

probity

(pro-bih-tee)

synonyms: goodness, honor, integrity, virtue, morality

Her probity in all dealings earned her the trust of her colleagues.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
41
Q

Define:

proclivity

(pro-kliv-ih-tee)

A

n. a natural inclination

Her proclivity for laziness is going to be a problem when we begin the new project.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
42
Q

Define:

prodigal

(prod-ih-guhl)

A

adj. lavishly wasteful

adj. being generous or giving abundantly

n. one who spends recklessly

The woman ended up regretting her prodigal lifestyle when she went bankrupt after a few years.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
43
Q

Define:

pugnacious

(pug-nehy-shuss)

A

adj. combative in nature

The pugnacious young man was eventually suspended for constantly fighting with other students.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
44
Q

Define:

quandary

(kwon-duh-ree)

A

n. a state of uncertainty, a dilemma

After receiving several great offers, I was in a quandary as to which I should accept.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
45
Q

Define:

quash

(kwash)

A

v. to forcibly suppress

v. to extinguish

The prosecution’s star witness quashed any chance the defense had of winning the trial.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
46
Q

Define:

quibble

(kwib-ul)

A

v. to evade the truth or importance of an issue by raising trivial objections

n. a trivial objection

The argument grew even more aggravating when my opponent began to quibble with me over semantics.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
47
Q

Define:

quiescent

(kwee-ess-unt)

A

adj. being quiet or still

The outlying region, usually a quiescent outpost of the empire, was the unlikely origin of the rebellion that would unseat the emperor.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
48
Q

Define:

rancor

(rang-kur)

A

n. a feeling of deep and bitter anger

Once the game ended there was no rancor between the opponents, despite the intensity of their match.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
49
Q

Define:

recalcitrant

(rih-kal-sih-trunt)

A

adj. stubborn and defiant of authority

Instead of obeying the police’s instructions, the protesters became recalcitrant and refused to move.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
50
Q

Define:

recess

(ree-sess)

A

v. to suspend proceedings

n. a break from class or business

n. an indented or hollowed-out space

The legislative body will recess next week.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
51
Q

Define:

redoubtable

(rih-dow-tuh-bull)

A

adj. fearsome or awe-inspiring

I knew Mauricio would be a redoubtable opponent after hearing my own coach sing his praises.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
52
Q

Define:

sagacious

(suh-gehy-shuss)

A

adj. very insightful or shrewd

My best friend is quite sagacious, so I know I can always turn to her for wise advice.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
53
Q

Define:

salubrious

(suh-loo-bree-uss)

A

adj. healthy or health-promoting

My new exercise routine has had a salubrious impact on my life.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
54
Q

Define:

salutary

(sal-yuh-tare-ee)

A

adj. beneficial, esp. relating to health

Anti-pollution laws have salutary effects for humans and animals.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
55
Q

Define:

satiate

(sehy-she-ehyt)

A

v. to fill to satisfaction

Sasha knew that the small portions served in the cafeteria would not satiate him.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
56
Q

Define:

scruple

(skrew-pull)

A

n. an ethical or moral concern

v. to hesitate on moral grounds

The man scrupled to tell a blatant lie, but eventually realized that he had no choice.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
57
Q

Define:

sedentary

(sed-en-tair-ee)

A

adj. sitting or seated

adj. tending to stay in the same place

Ming wanted to quit his sedentary job at the library and become a police officer.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
58
Q

Define:

sediment

(sed-ih-munt)

A

n. matter deposited by some natural process

n. settled matter at the bottom of a liquid

Kate refused to drink the water from the well when she noticed the sediment at the bottom of the bucket.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
59
Q

Define:

sordid

(sore-did)

A

adj. dirty or rundown

adj. immoral or unethical

During the divorce trial, the husband was asked to reveal the sordid details of his affair.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
60
Q

Define:

specious

(spee-shuss)

A

adj. plausible but false

adj. deceptively pleasing

After doing some research of my own, I realized that his argument was specious at best.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
61
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a natural inclination

A

proclivity

(pro-kliv-ih-tee)

synonyms: tendency, disposition, leaning, inclination, propensity

His proclivity for music was evident from a young age.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
62
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. lavishly wasteful

adj. being generous or giving abundantly

adj. one who spends recklessly

A

prodigal

(prod-ih-guhl)

synonyms: excessive, luxurious, copious, wasteful, extravagant

His prodigal spending habits led to financial trouble.

The prodigal soon realized the importance of saving.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
63
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. combative in nature

A

pugnacious

(pug-nehy-shuss)

synonyms: hostile, belligerent, combative, aggressive, quarrelsome

The pugnacious dog barked at every passerby.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
64
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a state of uncertainty, a dilemma

A

quandary

(kwon-duh-ree)

synonyms: dilemma, predicament, uncertainty, confusion, stalemate

She found herself in a quandary about which job offer to accept.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
65
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to forcibly suppress

v. to extinguish

A

quash

(kwash)

synonyms: defeat, destroy, squash, suppress, extinguish

The court decided to quash the earlier ruling.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
66
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to evade the truth or importance of an issue by raising trivial objections

n. a trivial objection

A

quibble

(kwib-ul)

synonyms: split hairs, trifle, detail, nitpick, cavil

Don’t quibble over small details; focus on the big picture.

His quibble about the terms was unnecessary.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
67
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. being quiet or still

A

quiescent

(kwee-ess-unt)

synonyms: inactive, motionless, inert, dormant, still

The quiescent village was a stark contrast to the bustling city.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
68
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a feeling of deep and bitter anger

A

rancor

(rang-kur)

synonyms: antagonism, hatred, bitterness, resentment, spite

There was no rancor between the players after the game.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
69
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. stubborn and defiant of authority

A

recalcitrant

(rih-kal-sih-trunt)

synonyms: disobedient, resistant, rebellious, obstinate, uncooperative

The recalcitrant student refused to follow the school rules.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
70
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to suspend proceedings

n. a break from class or business

n. an indented or hollowed-out space

A

recess

(ree-sess)

synonyms: halt, breather, nook, break, pause

The committee will recess for lunch before continuing the discussion.

During the recess, the students chatted happily.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
71
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. fearsome or awe-inspiring

A

redoubtable

(rih-dow-tuh-bull)

synonyms: dreadful, admirable, worthy, formidable, fearsome

He was a redoubtable opponent on the chessboard.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
72
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. very insightful or shrewd

A

sagacious

(suh-gehy-shuss)

synonyms: smart, acute, sensible, insightful, shrewd

Her sagacious advice always proved valuable.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
73
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. healthy or health-promoting

A

salubrious

(suh-loo-bree-uss)

synonyms: beneficial, good, hygienic, healthful, wholesome

The salubrious climate attracted many retirees.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
74
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. beneficial, esp. relating to health

A

salutary

(sal-yuh-tare-ee)

synonyms: aiding, restorative, beneficial, advantageous, helpful

The salutary effects of exercise are well-documented.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
75
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to fill to satisfaction

A

satiate

(sehy-she-ehyt)

synonyms: satisfy, stuff, gratify, fulfill, quench

She hoped the meal would satiate her hunger.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
76
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. an ethical or moral concern

v. to hesitate on moral grounds

A

scruple

(skrew-pull)

synonyms: conscience, qualm, hesitation, misgiving, doubt; to balk at

He had a scruple about lying to his friend.

She scrupled at the idea of cheating.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
77
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. sitting or seated

adj. tending to stay in the same place

A

sedentary

(sed-en-tair-ee)

synonyms: desk-bound, motionless, stationary, inactive, immobile

His sedentary lifestyle contributed to his weight gain.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
78
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. matter deposited by some natural process

n. settled matter at the bottom of a liquid

A

sediment

(sed-ih-munt)

synonyms: debris, deposit, residue, precipitate, dregs

The sediment at the bottom of the lake was thick and dark.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
79
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. dirty or rundown

adj. immoral or unethical

A

sordid

(sore-did)

synonyms: nasty, vile, corrupt, filthy, disreputable

The sordid details of the affair were shocking.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
80
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. plausible but false

adj. deceptively pleasing

A

specious

(spee-shuss)

synonyms: misleading, deceptive, apparent, fallacious, specious

Her specious argument failed to convince the jury.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
81
Q

Define:

sporadic

(spuh-rad-ik)

A

adj. occurring occasionally and without pattern

Our vacation plans were ruined by sporadic rain that seemed to start every time we headed towards the beach.

82
Q

Define:

spurious

(spure-ee-us)

A

adj. intending to deceive

adj. not valid or genuine

The tabloid writers made up spurious accusations against the young actor.

83
Q

Define:

squalor

(skwol-er)

A

n. filth; poverty

The town’s poorest inhabitants live in squalor due to their inability to access clean water.

84
Q

Define:

stark

(stark)

A

adj. complete or extreme

adj. very simple

adj. bare or blunt

The expensive car that he parked outside stood in stark contrast to the impoverished neighborhood surrounding it.

85
Q

Define:

stoic

(stow-ick)

A

adj. indifferent to pleasure or pain

n. one who is indifferent to pleasure or pain

The defendant remained stoic throughout the trial despite the harshness of the prosecution’s questions.

86
Q

Define:

stratum

(strat-um)

A

n. a horizontal layer of material

n. a level of society composed of people with similar social, cultural, or economic status

Friction between two social strata can often lead to political upheaval.

87
Q

Define:

stria

(strahy-uh)

A

n. a linear mark, ridge, or groove, esp. one of a number of similar parallel features

We examined the striae on the rocks to see if they were really from the same underground cave.

88
Q

Define:

strident

(strahyd-unt)

A

adj. unpleasantly loud and harsh

Her strident voice made me dread our weekly phone conversations.

89
Q

Define:

stringent

(strin-djunt)

A

adj. strictly controlled or enforced

Since accidents on roller coasters can often be fatal, amusement parks must undergo stringent testing before being opened to the public.

90
Q

Define:

stymie

(stahy-mee)

A

n. a situation that defies progress or resolution

v. to prevent or hinder the progress of something

The guard dogs managed to stymie the thief as he tried to break into the house.

91
Q

Define:

succinct

(suck-singkt)

A

adj. brief

Since there were only a few minutes left in the meeting, the final speaker had to keep his comments succinct and to the point.

92
Q

Define:

transient

(tran-zee-uhnt)

A

adj. not permanent

adj. moving from place to place

n. one who moves from place to place

The transient relied on the kindness of strangers whenever he arrived in a new town.

93
Q

Define:

trepidation

(trep-ih-dehy-shun)

A

n. a feeling of fear or agitation

Janice had to face her trepidation about flying in order to make the trip to California.

94
Q

Define:

turbid

(tur-bid)

A

adj. clouded due to sediment

adj. confused

I dropped my phone in the lake and couldn’t find it in the turbid water.

95
Q

Define:

ubiquitous

(you-bick-wih-tuss)

A

adj. present everywhere

In her neighborhood, Starbucks shops had become ubiquitous; she couldn’t walk two blocks without passing one.

96
Q

Define:

unfeigned

(un-feynd)

A

adj. sincerely felt or expressed

Although it seemed a ridiculous concern to us, Joyce’s preoccupation with her little sister’s sprained ankle was unfeigned.

97
Q

Define:

unimpeachable

(un-im-pee-chuh-bull)

A

adj. beyond doubt or suspicion

To win the case, the defense would need an unimpeachable witness to prove their client’s virtuous character.

98
Q

Define:

untenable

(un-ten-ih-bull)

A

adj. impossible to maintain or defend, as of an opinion

Kate is argumentative enough to support even the most untenable positions.

99
Q

Define:

vacillate

(vass-ih-lehyt)

A

v. to waver between conflicting positions

Both sides made such convincing arguments that the judge vacillated between them for days before coming to a decision.

100
Q

Define:

vacuous

(vak-yoo-us)

A

adj. devoid of significance or matter; empty

adj. lacking serious purpose or occupation

I told him pointedly to stop wasting my time with his vacuous comments.

101
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. occurring occasionally and without pattern

A

sporadic

(spuh-rad-ik)

synonyms: random, scattered, seldom, intermittent, occasional

The sporadic rain made planning difficult.

102
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. intending to deceive

adj. not valid or genuine

A

spurious

(spure-ee-us)

synonyms: deceitful, false, inaccurate, fraudulent, bogus

The spurious claims were quickly debunked.

103
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. filth; poverty

A

squalor

(skwol-er)

synonyms: dirtiness, destitution, filth, misery, deprivation

They lived in squalor, struggling to make ends meet.

104
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. complete or extreme

adj. very simple

adj. bare or blunt

A

stark

(stark)

synonyms: absolute, utter, austere, barren, severe

The stark contrast between rich and poor was evident.

105
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. indifferent to pleasure or pain

n. one who is indifferent to pleasure or pain

A

stoic

(stow-ick)

synonyms: apathetic, detached, impassive, indifferent, unemotional

The stoic soldier bore his injuries without complaint.

The stoic remained calm during the chaos, showing no signs of distress.

106
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a horizontal layer of material

n. a level of society composed of people with similar social, cultural, or economic status

A

stratum

(strat-um)

synonyms: layer, gradation, tier, level, section

Archaeologists studied the stratum to understand past civilizations.

107
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a linear mark, ridge, or groove, esp. one of a number of similar parallel features

A

stria

(strahy-uh)

synonyms: banding, groove, stripe, line, marking

The striae on the surface revealed the rock’s history.

108
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. unpleasantly loud and harsh

A

strident

(strahyd-unt)

synonyms: grating, shrill, loud, discordant, jarring

Her strident voice carried over the crowd.

109
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. strictly controlled or enforced

A

stringent

(strin-djunt)

synonyms: binding, strict, rigorous, severe, exacting

The stringent regulations ensured safety at the event.

110
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a situation that defies progress or resolution

v. to prevent or hinder the progress of something

A

stymie

(stahy-mee)

synonyms: confound, impede, obstruct, hinder, block

The ongoing conflict created a stymie for negotiations.

They tried to stymie our efforts at reform.

111
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. brief

A

succinct

(suck-singkt)

synonyms: blunt, compact, brief, concise, terse

Her succinct explanation clarified the complex topic.

112
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. not permanent

adj. moving from place to place

n. one who moves from place to place

A

transient

(tran-zee-uhnt)

synonyms: passing, fleeting, ephemeral, temporary, short-lived

The transient nature of his job meant he frequently relocated.

The city has many transient workers who stay for the summer.

113
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a feeling of fear or agitation

A

trepidation

(trep-ih-dehy-shun)

synonyms: anxiety, worry, apprehension, fear, unease

He approached the stage with trepidation before his performance.

114
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. clouded due to sediment

adj. confused

A

turbid

(tur-bid)

synonyms: cloudy, muddled, sedimentary, opaque, confused

The turbid waters made it difficult to see the bottom.

115
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. present everywhere

A

ubiquitous

(you-bick-wih-tuss)

synonyms: everywhere, omnipresent, pervasive, universal, all-over

Smartphones have become ubiquitous in modern society.

116
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. sincerely felt or expressed

A

unfeigned

(un-feynd)

synonyms: genuine, heartfelt, sincere, honest, true

Her unfeigned gratitude was evident in her warm smile.

117
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. beyond doubt or suspicion

A

unimpeachable

(un-im-pee-chuh-bull)

synonyms: blameless, spotless, immaculate, irreproachable, undeniable

The witness’s unimpeachable testimony helped secure the verdict.

118
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. impossible to maintain or defend, as of an opinion

A

untenable

(un-ten-ih-bull)

synonyms: inexcusable, faulty, indefensible, unsustainable, unmaintainable

Their argument became untenable after the new evidence emerged.

119
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to waver between conflicting positions

A

vacillate

(vass-ih-lehyt)

synonyms: fluctuate, hesitate, to be unsure, waver, dither

She began to vacillate between two job offers, unsure of which to choose.

120
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. devoid of significance or matter; empty

adj. lacking serious purpose or occupation

A

vacuous

(vak-yoo-us)

synonyms: lacking, vacant, empty, insipid, purposeless

His vacuous remarks contributed nothing to the discussion.

121
Q

Define:

vociferous

(voe-siff-er-uss)

A

adj. loud and insistent, esp. to compel attention

The vociferous mob gathered outside the store and awakened its owner.

122
Q

Define:

wanderlust

(wawn-der-lust)

A

n. the desire to travel

A sudden feeling of wanderlust encouraged me to pack my bags and head to Mexico.

123
Q

Define:

wheedle

(weed-ul)

A

v. to coax or persuade

Eventually the ice-cream truck driver was wheedled into giving the sullen child a free scoop.

124
Q

Define:

volatile

(voll-ih-tull)

A

adj. likely to change suddenly

adj. liable to lead to violence

adj. evaporating easily

The situation in the war-torn country soon became too volatile for most reporters and travelers to stay there safely.

125
Q

Define:

zenith

(zee-nith)

A

n. the highest point or peak

n. the point directly above one’s head

Climbing to the zenith of the mountain will be difficult, but it has been a dream of mine since childhood.

126
Q

Define:

abjure

(ab-djoor)

A

v. to renounce or reject solemnly; to recant or avoid

The monks had to abjure all indulgences.

127
Q

Define:

condign

(kon-dahyn)

A

adj. deserved, adequate

Though I believe I am compassionate, I will not hesitate to mete out a condign punishment to wrongdoers.

128
Q

Define:

debonair

(deb-uh-nair)

A

adj. suave, urbane, affable, genial, charming,stylish

The ladies were all drawn to the debonair newcomer.

129
Q

Define:

inveigle

(in-vey-guhl)

A

v. to obtain by deception or flattery

He inveigled the information from the president’s wife.

130
Q

Define:

philistine

(fil-uh-steen)

A

adj. barbaric; lacking culture

n. an individual guided by commonplace, rather than artistic or intellectual, values

Why, the philistine even declared that he hated the theater!

131
Q

Define:

suffuse

(suh-fyooz)

A

v. to spread through or over something, as with liquid, color, or light

The sky was suffused with deep colors.

132
Q

Define:

mettlesome

(met-uhl-sum)

A

adj. courageous, high-spirited

The mettlesome police officer saved the hostage.

133
Q

Define:

compunction

(kuhm-punk-shun)

A

n. hesitation or unease at committing (or having committed) an act

A hardened criminal usually has no compunction about hurting bystanders in order to evade the police.

134
Q

Define:

contravene

(kon-truh-veen)

A

v. to violate, or to conflict with a rule or principle

Until recently, Americans could not visit that country without contravening federal law.

135
Q

Define:

limn

(lim)

A

v. to draw; to describe; to depict

Here, the philosopher limns a basic theory of just governance.

136
Q

Define:

obloquy

(ob-luh-kwee)

A

n. abusive language; damage to one’s reputation; disgrace

The president earned obloquy for his tax hikes.

137
Q

Define:

abate

(uh-behyt)

A

v. to decrease in intensity

The ferocity of the fighting has started to abate, though the civilian population is still in great danger.

138
Q

Define:

abdicate

(ab-dih-kate)

A

v. to willingly let go of; to relinquish

The king abdicated the throne rather than expose his nation to a potentially crippling civil war.

139
Q

Define:

aberrant

(ab-buh-runt)

A

adj. abnormal, deviating from the norm

The aberrant accounting numbers led officials to conclude that a crime had been committed.

140
Q

Define:

abrade

(uh-brehyd)

A

v. to erode or rub away

The statue’s hand was abraded from all of the tourists rubbing it for luck.

141
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. loud and insistent, esp. to compel attention

A

vociferous

(voe-siff-er-uss)

synonyms: clamorous, noisy, distracting, boisterous, uproarious

The vociferous crowd demanded answers from the officials.

142
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. the desire to travel

A

wanderlust

(wawn-der-lust)

synonyms: journey, wayfaring, excursion, travel desire, exploration

Her wanderlust led her to explore new countries every year.

143
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to coax or persuade

A

wheedle

(weed-ul)

synonyms: to influence through flattery, to entice, coax, persuade

He tried to wheedle his way into getting a free meal.

144
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. likely to change suddenly

adj. liable to lead to violence

adj. evaporating easily

A

volatile

(voll-ih-tull)

synonyms: explosive, changeable, inconsistent; vaporizable, unpredictable, unstable

The political climate became increasingly volatile as tensions rose between the opposing factions.

The volatile chemicals in the lab required careful handling to prevent harmful fumes from escaping.

145
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. the highest point or peak

n. the point directly above one’s head

A

zenith

(zee-nith)

synonyms: acme, summit, pinnacle, peak, apex

Reaching the zenith of her career, she was celebrated worldwide.

146
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to renounce or reject solemnly; to recant or avoid

A

abjure

(ab-joor)

synonyms: forswear, abandon, renounce, reject

He chose to abjure his previous beliefs in favor of a new philosophy.

147
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. deserved, adequate

A

condign

(kon-dahyn)

synonyms: appropriate, proper, fair, deserved, fitting

The judge handed down a condign sentence that matched the severity of the crime.

148
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. suave, urbane, affable, genial, charming

A

debonair

(deb-uh-nair)

synonyms: refined, well-bred, sophisticated, charming, suave

The debonair host made everyone feel at ease at the party.

149
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to obtain by deception or flattery

A

inveigle

(in-vey-guhl)

synonyms: manipulate, cajole, ensnare, entice, lure

He managed to inveigle the secret from his friend by feigning interest.

150
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. barbaric; lacking culture

n. an individual guided by commonplace, rather than artistic or intellectual, values

A

philistine

(fil-uh-steen)

synonyms: coarse, crass, barbarian, boor, unrefined

His philistine attitude was evident when he dismissed the importance of classical music.

Despite his wealth, he was considered a philistine for his disregard of fine art and literature.

151
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to spread through or over something, as with liquid, color, or light

A

suffuse

(suh-fyooz)

synonyms: bathe, cover, saturate, permeate, infuse

The sunset suffused the sky with brilliant shades of orange and pink.

152
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. courageous, high-spirited

A

mettlesome

(met-uhl-sum)

synonyms: plucky, spirited, valiant, courageous, brave

The mettlesome knight charged bravely into battle.

153
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. hesitation or unease at committing (or having committed) an act

A

compunction

(kuhm-punk-shun)

synonyms: regret, sorrow, qualm, guilt, remorse

She felt a pang of compunction after lying to her friend.

154
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to violate, or to conflict with a rule or principle

A

contravene

(kon-truh-veen)

synonyms: breach, break, defy, violate, transgress

His actions contravene the company’s code of conduct.

155
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to draw; to describe; to depict

A

limn

(lim)

synonyms: characterize, chart, depict, illustrate, outline

The artist limns the landscape with delicate strokes.

156
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. abusive language; damage to one’s reputation; disgrace

A

obloquy

(ob-luh-kwee)

synonyms: defamation, slander, disgrace, reproach, insult

The politician faced obloquy after the scandal was exposed.

157
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to decrease in intensity

A

abate

(uh-behyt)

synonyms: lessen, moderate, diminish, decrease, reduce

The storm began to abate, allowing us to go outside.

158
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to willingly let go of; to relinquish

A

abdicate

(ab-dih-kate)

synonyms: abandon, leave, relinquish, resign, vacate

The king chose to abdicate rather than face civil unrest.

159
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. abnormal, deviating from the norm

A

aberrant

(ab-buh-runt)

synonyms: atypical, bizarre, deviant, abnormal, irregular

The aberrant behavior of the dog raised concerns among its owners.

160
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to erode or rub away

A

abrade

(uh-brehyd)

synonyms: rub, chafe, wear down, erode, scrape

The rough surface began to abrade the paint on the wall.

161
Q

Define:

abridge

(uh-bridge)

A

v. to condense; to shorten

The author threw a fit when his editor suggested that he abridge his novel in order to make it more accessible.

162
Q

Define:

abscond

(ab-skond)

A

v. to run away secretly and hide

The guilty man absconded during the night and was never heard from again.

163
Q

Define:

abstruse

(ab-strewss)

A

adj. difficult to comprehend

That film has been praised as a visionary masterpiece, but I found it more abstruse than enlightening.

164
Q

Define:

accolade

(ack-uh-lehyd)

A

n. recognition for an accomplishment

Cindy received accolades in the media for her breathtaking performance.

165
Q

Define:

acerbic

(uh-sir-bick)

A

adj. sour or bitter tasting, or of a bitter temperament

My friends’ acerbic reaction to bringing my boyfriend to the game led me to believe that they didn’t care much for him.

166
Q

Define:

acumen

(ack-cue-men)

A

n. insightfulness

Kofi was known for his acumen in literary analysis.

167
Q

Define:

adhesion

(ad-hee-zhun)

A

n. the state of being physically attached

n. the state of belonging to an organization

Adhesion to the regional economic union became a popular cause among the elites of the recession-weary nation.

168
Q

Define:

admonish

(ad-mon-ish)

A

v. to warn, to gently reprimand

The pilot admonished the passengers to remain seated during take off.

169
Q

Define:

adroit

(ad-royt)

A

adj. skillful, competent

The boy scout was an adroit survivalist and so managed to cling to life until a rescue team arrived.

170
Q

Define:

adulate

(adge-uh-lehyt)

A

v. to give excessive praise

Rather than adulate his superiors, Moncef preferred to show his regard by emulating them.

171
Q

Define:

affable

(aff-uh-buhl)

A

adj. gentle, friendly, or of a kind nature

Stacy was an affable acquaintance to many but a real friend to few.

172
Q

Define:

affluent

(aff-loo-uhnt)

A

adj. wealthy

Membership in the private club was only open to affluent members of society.

173
Q

Define:

aggrandize

(uh-gran-dahyz)

A

v. to exaggerate; to increase the scope of or to make greater

Luke had aggrandized his credentials so much that he was fired on the spot when it was discovered that he was just a novice.

174
Q

Define:

affront

(uh-front)

A

n. an offensive act or statement

v. to insult openly

Lucia’s ingratitude was an affront to all of us who had supported her.

175
Q

Define:

agrarian

(uh-grair-ee-uhn)

A

adj. pertaining to farming or land matters

The farmer switched from his habitual agrarian routine to that of a high-powered business CEO in just a few years.

176
Q

Define:

alacrity

(uh-lack-ruh-tee)

A

n. enthusiasm; speed

Children approach their homework with more alacrity if they know that a reward awaits them when they finish.

177
Q

Define:

vug

(vuhg)

A

n. a small cavity in a rock

She hid her trinkets in the vug for safekeeping.

178
Q

Define:

petrous

(pet-ruhss)

A

adj. rock-hard; stony

The skull of the fetus has not yet become petrous; in fact, it is still translucent to x-rays at this stage.

179
Q

Define:

tautology

(tawt-aw-luh-djee)

A

n. a statement that is trivially true; unnecessary repetition

It is no help to anybody when you spout tautologies like “Whatever will be will be”.

180
Q

Define:

gambol

(gam-buhl)

A

v. to skip playfully, to frolic

The youngsters went gamboling through the fields.

181
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to condense; to shorten

A

abridge

(uh-bridge)

synonyms: reduce, refine, abbreviate, shorten, condense

The editor decided to abridge the lengthy manuscript.

182
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to run away secretly and hide

A

abscond

(ab-skond)

synonyms: depart, escape, flee, run away, vanish

The thief managed to abscond with the jewelry before anyone noticed.

183
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. difficult to comprehend

A

abstruse

(ab-strewss)

synonyms: abstract, enigmatic, incomprehensible, obscure, confusing

The professor’s lecture on quantum physics was incredibly abstruse.

184
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. recognition for an accomplishment

A

accolade

(ack-uh-leyhd)

synonyms: acclaim, kudos, honor, praise, recognition

She received accolades for her outstanding contributions to science.

185
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. sour or bitter tasting or with bitter temperament

A

acerbic

(uh-sir-bick)

synonyms: acrid, caustic, sharp, biting, sarcastic

His acerbic comments often left others feeling hurt.

186
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. insightfulness

A

acumen

(ack-cue-men)

synonyms: acuteness, intelligence, insight, discernment, sharpness

Her business acumen helped the company thrive in a competitive market.

187
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. the state of being physically attached

n. the state of belonging to an organization

A

adhesion

(ad-hee-zhun)

synonyms: adherence, membership, attachment, bonding, allegiance

The adhesion of the paint to the wall was remarkable.

188
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to warn, to gently reprimand

A

admonish

(ad-mon-ish)

synonyms: check, counsel, scold, notice, reprimand

The teacher admonished the student for being late.

189
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. skillful, competent

A

adroit

(ad-royt)

synonyms: adept, apt, expert, skillful, proficient

His adroit handling of the situation impressed everyone.

190
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to give excessive praise

A

adulate

(adge-uh-lehyt)

synonyms: fawn, acclaim, laud, flatter, idolize

The critics adulated the film as a masterpiece.

191
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. gentle, friendly, or of a kind nature

A

affable

(aff-uh-buhl)

synonyms: cordial, pleasant, friendly, sociable, genial

Her affable personality made her popular among her peers.

192
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. wealthy

A

affluent

(aff-loo-uhnt)

synonyms: rich, prosperous, wealthy, opulent, well-to-do

The affluent family hosted a lavish charity gala.

193
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to exaggerate; to increase the scope of

A

aggrandize

(uh-gran-dahyz)

synonyms: enlarge, glorify, augment, amplify, elevate

She tried to aggrandize her achievements during the interview.”

194
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. an offensive act or statement

v. to insult openly

A

affront

(uh-front)

synonyms: criticize, antagonize, offend, insult, provoke

His rude comment was seen as an affront to her dignity.

To affront someone in public is considered disrespectful.

195
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. pertaining to farming or land matters

A

agrarian

(uh-grair-ee-un)

synonyms: agricultural, country, rural, farming, pastoral

The agrarian policies aim to support local farmers.

196
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. enthusiasm; speed

A

alacrity

(uh-lack-rih-tee)

synonyms: liveliness, fervor, eagerness, readiness, enthusiasm

She accepted the invitation with alacrity.

197
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a small cavity in a rock

A

vug

(vuhg)

synonyms: cavity, depression, hole, recess, hollow

The geologist found a vug filled with sparkling crystals.

198
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

adj. rock-hard; stony

A

petrous

(pet-ruhss)

synonyms: rugged, rocky, petrified, stony, hard

The petrous surface of the mountain made climbing challenging.

199
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

n. a statement that is trivially true; unnecessary repetition

A

tautology

(tawt-aw-luh-djee)

synonyms: equivalence, redundancy, repetition, circular reasoning, tautological statement

His explanation contained a tautology that added no new information.

200
Q

Which of your vocabulary words means the following?

v. to skip playfully, to frolic

A

gambol

(gam-buhl)

synonyms: cavort, skip, rollick, frolic, play

The children began to gambol in the sunny meadow.

GRE Vocab Genius (9 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2024 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions