Deck 32 Flashcards
What does ‘peripatetic’ primarily mean?
Traveling from place to place, especially for work or based on a wandering lifestyle.
Secondary meaning relates to walking or movement.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘peripatetic’.
“As a peripatetic teacher, she moved between three schools every week.”
Another usage: “The philosopher enjoyed peripatetic discussions in the garden.”
What are synonyms for ‘peripatetic’?
- Itinerant
- Nomadic
- Roaming
- Wandering
- Vagabond
What is the primary meaning of ‘froward’?
Stubbornly contrary or disobedient; difficult to deal with.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘froward’.
“The froward child refused to listen to any instructions.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘froward’?
- Obstinate
- Contrary
- Recalcitrant
- Willful
- Perverse
What does ‘reconnoiter’ primarily mean?
To survey or explore an area to gather information, especially for military purposes.
Secondary meaning is to investigate or make a preliminary observation.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘reconnoiter’.
“The soldiers were sent to reconnoiter the enemy’s position.”
Another usage: “She reconnoitered the neighborhood before buying the house.”
What are synonyms for ‘reconnoiter’?
- Scout
- Survey
- Inspect
- Explore
- Examine
What is the primary meaning of ‘arbiter’?
A person with the authority to settle a dispute or judge something.
Secondary meaning is an ultimate authority or influencer in a particular domain.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘arbiter’.
“The arbiter decided in favor of the plaintiff.”
Another usage: “He was an arbiter of taste in the art world.”
What are synonyms for ‘arbiter’?
- Judge
- Referee
- Mediator
- Umpire
- Authority
What does ‘dross’ primarily refer to?
Waste or impurities removed from a metal during refining.
Secondary meaning refers to something considered worthless or of low quality.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘dross’.
“The dross was skimmed off during the smelting process.”
Another usage: “Critics dismissed the movie as pure dross.”
What are synonyms for ‘dross’?
- Waste
- Refuse
- Residue
- Scum
- Trash
What is the primary meaning of ‘eugenics’?
The science of improving a population by controlled breeding to increase desirable heritable traits.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘eugenics’.
“Eugenics programs were widely criticized for their ethical implications.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘eugenics’?
- Selective breeding
- Genetic improvement
What does ‘natty’ primarily mean?
Stylish and neat in appearance or dress.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘natty’.
“He looked natty in his tailored suit and polished shoes.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘natty’?
- Dapper
- Smart
- Chic
- Fashionable
- Snazzy
What is the primary meaning of ‘manse’?
A large house, typically one occupied by a minister of a church.
Secondary meaning refers to a mansion or impressive residence.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘manse’.
“The pastor lived in the old manse at the edge of the village.”
Another usage: “The historic manse was converted into a museum.”
What are synonyms for ‘manse’?
- Mansion
- Parsonage
- Rectory
- Residence
What does ‘hubris’ primarily mean?
Excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to downfall.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘hubris’.
“The hero’s hubris led him to underestimate his opponent.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘hubris’?
- Arrogance
- Conceit
- Pride
- Vanity
- Overconfidence
What does ‘posit’ primarily mean?
To assume or suggest something as a fact or basis for argument.
Secondary meaning is to place firmly or put forward.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘posit’.
“He posited that the universe is infinite.”
Another usage: “The researcher posited the device on the table for demonstration.”
What are synonyms for ‘posit’?
- Propose
- Postulate
- Assert
- Suggest
- Hypothesize
What does ‘compunction’ primarily mean?
A feeling of guilt or moral scruple that prevents or follows wrongdoing.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘compunction’.
“She felt no compunction about leaving her job abruptly.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘compunction’?
- Remorse
- Regret
- Guilt
- Contrition
- Repentance
What does ‘steel’ primarily mean?
To mentally prepare oneself to face something challenging or unpleasant.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘steel’.
“She steeled herself before entering the courtroom.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘steel’?
- Fortify
- Brace
- Prepare
- Harden
- Strengthen
What does ‘revile’ primarily mean?
To criticize or insult in an angry or abusive manner.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘revile’.
“The politician was reviled by his opponents during the debate.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘revile’?
- Abuse
- Condemn
- Scorn
- Vilify
- Denounce
What does ‘refectory’ primarily mean?
A communal dining hall, especially in a monastery or academic institution.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘refectory’.
“The students gathered in the refectory for lunch.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘refectory’?
- Dining hall
- Cafeteria
- Mess
- Banquet room
What does ‘alloy’ primarily refer to?
A mixture of two or more metals.
Secondary meaning is to combine or mix something with lesser value.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘alloy’.
“Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin.”
Another usage: “His joy was alloyed by a hint of regret.”
What are synonyms for ‘alloy’?
- Mixture
- Blend
- Fusion
- Amalgam
What does ‘traducer’ primarily mean?
To speak badly of or defame someone.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘traducer’.
“The tabloids traduced her reputation with baseless rumors.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘traducer’?
- Slander
- Defame
- Malign
- Vilify
- Libel
What does ‘militate’ primarily mean?
To have a strong influence against or in favor of something.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘militate’.
“The lack of funding militates against the project’s success.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘militate’?
- Oppose
- Hinder
- Obstruct
- Influence
What does ‘filigree’ primarily mean?
Delicate, intricate ornamental work, often in fine wire.
Secondary meaning refers to something intricate or fancy.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘filigree’.
“The necklace featured exquisite gold filigree.”
Another usage: “The story was a filigree of lies and half-truths.”
What are synonyms for ‘filigree’?
- Ornamentation
- Intricacy
- Embellishment
- Detail
What does ‘welter’ primarily mean?
A state of disorder or confusion.
Secondary meaning is to move in a turbulent or chaotic manner.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘welter’.
“The room was a welter of papers and books.”
Another usage: “The ship weltered in the rough seas.”
What are synonyms for ‘welter’?
- Chaos
- Turmoil
- Confusion
- Jumble
What does ‘blanch’ primarily mean?
To make white or pale by extracting color.
Secondary meaning refers to growing pale from fear or shock.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘blanch’.
“The vegetables were blanched before cooking.”
Another usage: “She blanched at the sight of the accident.”
What are synonyms for ‘blanch’?
- Whiten
- Bleach
- Pale
- Lighten
What does ‘scourge’ primarily mean?
A person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering.
Secondary meaning refers to a whip used as an instrument of punishment.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘scourge’.
“The disease became a scourge across the country.”
Another usage: “The prisoner was punished with a scourge.”
What are synonyms for ‘scourge’?
- Plague
- Bane
- Curse
- Affliction
What does ‘salient’ primarily mean?
Most noticeable or important.
Secondary meaning refers to projecting or pointing outward.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘salient’.
“The report highlighted the salient points of the proposal.”
Another usage: “The castle’s salient features included its massive towers.”
What are synonyms for ‘salient’?
- Prominent
- Significant
- Outstanding
- Noteworthy
What does ‘philology’ primarily mean?
The study of language in written historical sources.
Secondary meaning refers to the study of literary texts and their authenticity.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘philology’.
“Her expertise in philology helped uncover the origins of the manuscript.”
Another usage: “He devoted his career to philology and ancient languages.”
What are synonyms for ‘philology’?
- Linguistics
- Etymology
- Language studies
What does ‘nostrum’ primarily mean?
A medicine or remedy of doubtful effectiveness.
Secondary meaning refers to a scheme or idea for solving a problem, often unrealistic.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘nostrum’.
“The salesman offered a nostrum for all health problems.”
Another usage: “The politician proposed a nostrum to address the economic crisis.”
What are synonyms for ‘nostrum’?
- Panacea
- Cure-all
- Quack remedy
What does ‘antipodal’ primarily mean?
Diametrically opposite or entirely different.
Secondary meaning relates to being on the opposite side of the Earth.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘antipodal’.
“Their opinions were antipodal on the subject of climate change.”
Another usage: “Australia is antipodal to the United Kingdom.”
What are synonyms for ‘antipodal’?
- Opposite
- Contrasting
- Polar
What does ‘sentinel’ primarily mean?
A guard or watchman who keeps vigil.
Secondary meaning is something that acts as an indicator or protector.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘sentinel’.
“The sentinel stood watch at the entrance of the fortress.”
Another usage: “The old oak tree was a sentinel of the village’s history.”
What are synonyms for ‘sentinel’?
- Guard
- Lookout
- Watcher
What does ‘proscribe’ primarily mean?
To forbid or prohibit something.
Secondary meaning is to denounce or condemn something.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘proscribe’.
“The government proscribed the use of harmful chemicals in agriculture.”
Another usage: “The book was proscribed for its controversial views.”
What are synonyms for ‘proscribe’?
- Ban
- Forbid
- Outlaw
- Disallow
What does ‘vituperate’ primarily mean?
To criticize or blame someone in an abusive or harsh manner.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘vituperate’.
“He vituperated his colleagues during the heated argument.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘vituperate’?
- Berate
- Scold
- Revile
- Abuse
What does ‘fidelity’ primarily mean?
Faithfulness or loyalty to a person, cause, or belief.
Secondary meaning refers to accuracy in details or exactness.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘fidelity’.
“Her fidelity to her principles was admirable.”
Another usage: “The sound system provided high fidelity audio.”
What are synonyms for ‘fidelity’?
- Loyalty
- Devotion
- Faithfulness
- Accuracy
What does ‘necromancy’ primarily mean?
The practice of communicating with the dead, especially to predict the future.
Secondary meaning refers to sorcery or black magic.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘necromancy’.
“The old legends spoke of a wizard skilled in necromancy.”
Another usage: “They feared the dark arts of necromancy.”
What are synonyms for ‘necromancy’?
- Sorcery
- Witchcraft
- Divination
- Magic
What does ‘crucible’ primarily mean?
A severe test or trial.
Secondary meaning refers to a container used for heating substances to high temperatures.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘crucible’.
“The war was a crucible for the nation’s resilience.”
Another usage: “The molten metal was poured out of the crucible.”
What are synonyms for ‘crucible’?
- Trial
- Ordeal
- Test
What does ‘pantheon’ primarily mean?
A group of respected, famous, or important people or things.
Secondary meaning refers to a temple dedicated to all the gods.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘pantheon’.
“She joined the pantheon of great writers with her latest novel.”
Another usage: “The ancient Romans built the Pantheon as a temple.”
What are synonyms for ‘pantheon’?
- Canon
- Elite
- Icons
- Shrine
What does ‘misogynist’ primarily mean?
A person who dislikes, despises, or is strongly prejudiced against women.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘misogynist’.
“His remarks were criticized as misogynist and outdated.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘misogynist’?
- Woman-hater
- Chauvinist
What does ‘tumid’ primarily mean?
Swollen or distended.
Secondary meaning refers to overly grandiose or pompous in style.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘tumid’.
“The injury left his ankle tumid and painful.”
Another usage: “The tumid prose in the speech bored the audience.”
What are synonyms for ‘tumid’?
- Swollen
- Inflated
- Pompous
- Bloated
What does ‘filch’ primarily mean?
To steal something, especially in a sneaky or petty way.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘filch’.
“The boy filched candy from the store when no one was looking.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘filch’?
- Steal
- Pilfer
- Purloin
- Swipe
What does ‘preen’ primarily mean?
To groom oneself with care or to make oneself neat.
Secondary meaning is to take pride or satisfaction in oneself.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘preen’.
“The bird preened its feathers in the sunlight.”
Another usage: “He preened over his latest success at work.”
What are synonyms for ‘preen’?
- Groom
- Primp
- Flaunt
- Show off
What does ‘noisome’ primarily mean?
Having an extremely unpleasant smell.
Secondary meaning refers to something disagreeable or unpleasant.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘noisome’.
“The noisome odor from the garbage was unbearable.”
Another usage: “His noisome remarks made the meeting uncomfortable.”
What are synonyms for ‘noisome’?
- Foul
- Malodorous
- Offensive
- Repugnant
What does ‘distrait’ primarily mean?
Distracted or preoccupied, often due to anxiety or worry.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘distrait’.
“She seemed distrait, her thoughts clearly elsewhere.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘distrait’?
- Distracted
- Absent-minded
- Preoccupied
- Inattentive
What does ‘extrinsic’ primarily mean?
Not inherent or essential; coming from outside.
Secondary meaning refers to external or unrelated to the subject.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘extrinsic’.
“The motivation was extrinsic rather than internal.”
Another usage: “The decision was influenced by extrinsic factors.”
What are synonyms for ‘extrinsic’?
- External
- Outward
- Nonessential
- Peripheral
What does ‘hone’ primarily mean?
To sharpen a blade or improve a skill.
Secondary meaning is to refine or perfect something.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘hone’.
“He honed the knife until it was razor-sharp.”
Another usage: “She spent years honing her writing skills.”
What are synonyms for ‘hone’?
- Sharpen
- Refine
- Polish
- Improve
What does ‘fathom’ primarily mean?
To understand something deeply.
Secondary meaning refers to a unit of length (6 feet), used in nautical measurements.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘fathom’.
“She couldn’t fathom why he had left so suddenly.”
Another usage: “The depth of the ocean was measured in fathoms.”
What are synonyms for ‘fathom’?
- Comprehend
- Grasp
- Understand
- Probe
What does ‘condign’ primarily mean?
Deserved or appropriate, especially of punishment.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘condign’.
“The criminal received a condign punishment for his actions.”
No secondary usage.
What are synonyms for ‘condign’?
- Just
- Fitting
- Appropriate
- Deserved
What does ‘jejune’ primarily mean?
Lacking substance, significance, or interest.
Secondary meaning refers to being naive or simplistic.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘jejune’.
“The novel’s plot was jejune and uninspiring.”
Another usage: “His jejune understanding of the issue led to an oversimplified solution.”
What are synonyms for ‘jejune’?
- Uninteresting
- Dull
- Naive
- Superficial
What does ‘genuflect’ primarily mean?
To bend one knee to the ground as a sign of worship or respect.
Secondary meaning is to show excessive deference or servility.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘genuflect’.
“The congregation genuflected before the altar.”
Another usage: “He refused to genuflect to the demands of his critics.”
What are synonyms for ‘genuflect’?
- Kneel
- Bow
- Defer
- Submit
What does ‘volition’ primarily mean?
The power to make one’s own choices or decisions.
No secondary meaning.
Provide a contextual usage of ‘volition’.
“She joined the…
Contextual usage not fully provided.
What is the primary meaning of ‘genuflect’?
To bend one knee to the ground as a sign of worship or respect.
Contextual usage: ‘The congregation genuflected before the altar.’
What is a secondary meaning of ‘genuflect’?
To show excessive deference or servility.
Contextual usage: ‘He refused to genuflect to the demands of his critics.’
List synonyms for ‘genuflect’.
- Kneel
- Bow
- Defer
- Submit
What is the primary meaning of ‘volition’?
The power to make one’s own choices or decisions.
Contextual usage: ‘She joined the program of her own volition.’
Does ‘volition’ have a secondary meaning?
None.
List synonyms for ‘volition’.
- Free will
- Choice
- Determination
- Autonomy
What is the primary meaning of ‘verbiage’?
Excessive or unnecessary use of words.
Contextual usage: ‘The essay was criticized for its excessive verbiage.’
What is a secondary meaning of ‘verbiage’?
Style or manner of expression in words.
Contextual usage: ‘The legal document’s verbiage made it hard to understand.’
List synonyms for ‘verbiage’.
- Wordiness
- Redundancy
- Prolixity
What is the primary meaning of ‘blandish’?
To flatter or coax someone in a gentle manner.
Contextual usage: ‘She blandished her boss with compliments to get a promotion.’
Does ‘blandish’ have a secondary meaning?
None.
List synonyms for ‘blandish’.
- Flatter
- Coax
- Cajole
- Wheedle
What is the primary meaning of ‘pathology’?
The study of diseases and their causes or effects.
Contextual usage: ‘The doctor specialized in pathology to better understand cancer.’
What is a secondary meaning of ‘pathology’?
A deviation from normal or healthy behavior.
Contextual usage: ‘The pathology of his obsession became evident over time.’
List synonyms for ‘pathology’.
- Disease study
- Abnormality
What is the primary meaning of ‘pelagic’?
Relating to the open sea, away from the coast.
Contextual usage: ‘The pelagic fish lived far from the shore in deep waters.’
Does ‘pelagic’ have a secondary meaning?
None.
List synonyms for ‘pelagic’.
- Oceanic
- Deep-sea
- Marine
What is the primary meaning of ‘peremptory’?
Insisting on immediate attention or obedience in a commanding manner.
Contextual usage: ‘The officer issued a peremptory order to evacuate.’
What is a secondary meaning of ‘peremptory’?
Not open to appeal or challenge; final.
Contextual usage: ‘The judge’s decision was peremptory and unchangeable.’
List synonyms for ‘peremptory’.
- Authoritative
- Imperative
- Dictatorial
