Fancy new words Flashcards
Telos
An ultimate objective or aim, Greek for ‘end’.
Inculcate
To instil an idea or attitude through persistent instruction
Milieu
A person’s social environment
Circumscribe
Restrict something within limits
Materialism
The tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort more important than spiritual values
Burlesque
A parody; an absurd or comically exaggerated imitation of something
Eminence
Fame or acknowledged superiority within a particular sphere/an important or distinguished person.
Lachrymose
Tearful or given to weeping/tear-inducing
Sanctimonious
Making a show of being morally superior to others.
Assuage
To make an unpleasant feeling less intense/satisfy a desire
Forswear
To agree to give up or do without
Detractor
A person who disparages someone or something
Clandestine
Kept secret or done secretively
Upbraid
Scold/ find fault with
Invective
Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language
Paragon
A person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality
Enervate
The quality of lacking in/to drain someone of energy or vitality
Parvenu
A person of humble origin who has gained wealth, influence or celebrity.
Acerbic
Sharp and forthright
Sententious
Given to moralizing in a pompous or affected manner
Imbroglio
An extremely confused, complicated or embarrassing situation
Diatribe
A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something
Expedient
Convenient, practical and appropriate, although perhaps immoral
Extemporize
Improvise (compose/perform/produce without preparation)
Typology
The study and interpretation of types and symbols (particularly Biblical)
