OWS Flashcards
Become less intense and widespread
ABATE (V)
“Abate” means to lessen in intensity or amount. It’s not as commonly used in everyday speech as verbs like “run” or “eat,” but it’s still a useful word.
- Weather: “The storm finally abated, and we were able to go outside.”
- Pain: “Her pain abated after taking the medication.”
- Conflict: “As the protests continued, the tension between the groups began to abate.”
To remember “abate,” think of the word “reduce” or “lessen.” You can create a mental association with a storm calming down or pain subsiding. Imagine a storm that “abates” by visualizing it becoming less intense, which can help you retain its meaning.
You can use a mnemonic device to fix the meaning in your mind. For example:
- After a long Battle, the storm Abated and The sun Emerged.
This sentence encapsulates the idea of something intense (like a battle or storm) lessening over time.
- Abate: To lessen in intensity or amount.
- Example Sentence: “The noise from the construction site finally abated.”
- Mnemonic: “A storm abates after it reduces in intensity.”
Using these techniques should help you remember and properly use the word “abate.”
A place where animals are slaughtered for consumption as food
Abattoir (N)
Abattoir (pronounced: \ˈa-bə-ˌtwär) is a noun that means a slaughterhouse, where animals are killed for their meat.
- Industry Context: “The regulations for maintaining hygiene in an abattoir are very strict.”
- Descriptive Context: “She couldn’t bear the thought of visiting an abattoir because of her love for animals.”
- Historical Context: “In the 19th century, abattoirs were often located on the outskirts of cities.”
To remember “abattoir,” you can associate it with the concept of a place where animals are killed for meat. The word has a somewhat formal and perhaps slightly euphemistic connotation, compared to “slaughterhouse.”
Think of the first part of the word “abattoir” as “aba,” which sounds like “a bad.” Then, think of “toir” as similar to “tour.” Imagine “a bad tour” of a place where animals are killed, which can help you remember that “abattoir” means slaughterhouse.
- Abattoir: A slaughterhouse, a place where animals are killed for meat.
- Example Sentence: “The new abattoir was designed to handle large numbers of livestock efficiently.”
- Mnemonic: “A bad tour” helps recall that an abattoir is a slaughterhouse.
To reduce to a shorter form intended to stand for the whole
Abbreviation
The superior of a monastery
Abbot (N)
Abbot (pronounced: ˈऐबट्) is a noun that refers to the head or leader of a monastery, particularly in communities of monks in the Christian tradition.
- Religious Context: “The abbot led the monks in their daily prayers and rituals.”
- Historical Context: “During the medieval period, the abbot held significant power within the monastery and often influenced local politics.”
- Descriptive Context: “The abbot’s wise and compassionate leadership was respected by all the monks.”
To remember “abbot,” you can think of the role similar to a leader or head of a religious community. The word has a distinct association with monasteries and the monastic life.
Think of “abbot” as “a bit” like a “bishop” in terms of authority within the monastery. The similarity in the starting sounds (“abb-“ and “bish-“) can help link the terms in your mind.
- Abbot: The head or leader of a monastery.
- Example Sentence: “The abbot was known for his deep spiritual insight and guidance.”
- Mnemonic: “A bit” like a “bishop” helps recall that an abbot is the leader of a monastery.
Using this explanation and mnemonic should help you remember and correctly use the word “abbot.”
To give up onc’s authority or throne
Abdicate (V)
Act of giving(renouncing )up the throne
Abdication (N)
Deviation from the right course
Aberration (N)
The act of washing oneself
Ablution (N)
To refuse or deny oneself
Abnegate (V)
Formally put an end to a system, practice , or institution
Abolish (V)
Existing in a land from the earliest times or from before the arrival of colonists
Aboriginal (adj)
The original inhabitant/native of a country
Aborigines (N)
To shorten a piece of writing without losing the sense
Abridge (V)
Abridge is a verb that means to shorten or condense a written or spoken text while retaining its essence or main points.
- Literary Context: “The editor abridged the lengthy manuscript to make it more accessible to readers.”
- Speech Context: “Due to time constraints, the speaker had to abridge her presentation.”
- Legal Context: “The lawyer explained that certain rights cannot be abridged by the government.”
To remember “abridge,” think of it as similar to “bridge,” which connects two points but in this case, it connects the original text with its shortened version, preserving the essential points.
Think of “abridge” as “a bridge.” Just as a bridge connects two points, abridging connects the original text with its condensed version, preserving the main points.
- Abridge: To shorten or condense a written or spoken text while retaining its essence or main points.
- Example Sentence: “The film was an abridged version of the novel, capturing the key elements of the story.”
- Mnemonic: “A bridge” helps recall that abridge means to connect the original text with its shortened version while preserving the main points.
A shortened version of a large work
Abridgement (N)
Abridgement (also spelled “abridgment”) is a noun that refers to a shortened or condensed version of a written work, typically a book or document, while retaining the main ideas and essential points.
- Literary Context: “The teacher assigned the students to read the abridgement of the classic novel.”
- Legal Context: “The lawyer provided the court with an abridgement of the contract for easier reference.”
To remember “abridgement,” think of it as similar to “abbreviation” but specifically applied to written works. It’s like condensing a lengthy text into a shorter form while still capturing its essence.
Think of “abridgement” as “abbreviated management.” Just as management involves organizing and overseeing a process, abridgement involves condensing and organizing a written work.
- Abridgement: A shortened or condensed version of a written work, preserving its main ideas.
- Example Sentence: “The abridgement of the dictionary omitted less commonly used words.”
- Mnemonic: “Abbreviated management” helps recall that abridgement involves condensing a written work while preserving its main ideas.
Cancel or do away with ( a law or agreement)
Abrogate (V)
Abrogate (pronounced: \ˈa-brə-ˌgāt) is a verb that means to repeal or abolish a law, agreement, or custom formally.
- Legal Context: “The new government sought to abrogate several outdated laws from the previous administration.”
- Treaty Context: “The two countries agreed to abrogate the treaty that had been in place for decades.”
- Custom Context: “The company decided to abrogate the traditional dress code policy in favor of a more casual approach.”
To remember “abrogate,” associate it with the idea of nullifying or canceling something, especially in a formal or legal context. Think of it as similar to “revoke” or “annul.”
Think of “abrogate” as “abrupt negate.” The idea of abruptly negating something implies the sudden cancellation or repeal of a law, agreement, or custom.
- Abrogate: To repeal or abolish formally, especially a law, agreement, or custom.
- Example Sentence: “The council voted to abrogate the outdated regulations.”
- Mnemonic: “Abrupt negate” helps recall that abrogate means to cancel or repeal formally.
To go away suddenly and secretly in order to escape from somewhere
Abscond (V)
Abscond (pronounced: \ab-ˈskänd) is a verb that means to leave hurriedly and secretly, typically to avoid detection or arrest.
- Escape Context: “The thief absconded with the stolen jewels before the authorities arrived.”
- Avoidance Context: “He absconded from the meeting to avoid facing the consequences of his actions.”
To remember “abscond,” associate it with the idea of someone running away or escaping secretly to avoid getting caught. Think of it as similar to “absent” or “absent-minded,” where someone is not present, but in this case, they’re intentionally avoiding being found.
Think of “abscond” as “absent and gone.” The similarity in sound between “abscond” and “absent” can help you remember that abscond means to leave secretly or escape.
- Abscond: To leave hurriedly and secretly, especially to avoid detection or arrest.
- Example Sentence: “The prisoner absconded from the jail during the night.”
- Mnemonic: “Absent and gone” helps recall that abscond means to leave secretly or escape.
Formal forgiveness of a person’s sins
Absolution (N)
Absolution (pronounced: \ˌab-sə-ˈlü-shən) is a noun that refers to the act of forgiving someone for their sins or wrongdoing, or the formal declaration of forgiveness by a religious authority, especially in the Christian faith.
- Religious Context: “After confessing his sins, he received absolution from the priest.”
- Figurative Context: “She sought absolution for her past mistakes by volunteering to help those in need.”
To remember “absolution,” associate it with the idea of being “absolved” or freed from guilt or responsibility for something you’ve done wrong. Think of it as a form of forgiveness, especially within religious contexts.
Think of “absolution” as “absolute resolution.” The idea of absolute resolution implies a complete forgiveness or resolution of wrongdoing, which aligns with the concept of absolution.
- Absolution: Forgiveness for sins or wrongdoing, especially in a religious context.
- Example Sentence: “The priest granted her absolution, assuring her that she was forgiven.”
- Mnemonic: “Absolute resolution” helps recall that absolution means forgiveness or resolution of wrongdoing.
Wildly unreasonable, illogical and ridiculous
Absurd (adj)
To increase the speed
Accelerate (V)
Any award honour or lauditory notice
Accolade (N)
A person who helps another to commit a crime or do something morally wrong // a partner in crime
Accomplice (N)
Accolade (pronounced: \ˈa-kə-ˌlād\ or \ˌa-kə-ˈlād) is a noun that refers to an award, honor, or expression of praise. It signifies recognition of merit or achievement.
- Award Context: “She received numerous accolades for her groundbreaking research.”
- Praise Context: “The film garnered accolades from critics worldwide.”
To remember “accolade,” associate it with awards and honors. Think of ceremonies where people receive medals, trophies, or public praise.
Think of “accolade” as “a cool aid” or “a cool award.” Imagine someone receiving “a cool award” or recognition, which can help you remember that an accolade is an honor or praise.
- Accolade: An award, honor, or expression of praise.
- Example Sentence: “The author’s new novel earned her the highest accolade in the literary world.”
- Mnemonic: “A cool award” helps recall that an accolade is an honor or expression of praise.
We harmonious or consistent with
Accord (V)
Accord can be both a noun and a verb.
Accord (pronounced: \ə-ˈkȯrd) as a noun refers to an agreement or harmony between people, groups, or nations.
- Agreement Context: “The two countries signed a peace accord to end the decade-long conflict.”
- Harmony Context: “There was a sense of accord among the team members as they worked towards a common goal.”
Accord as a verb means to give or grant someone power, status, or recognition. It can also mean to be in harmony or agreement.
- Granting: “The committee accorded him the highest honor for his contributions to science.”
- Agreement: “Her actions did not accord with her words, causing confusion.”
To remember “accord,” think of the phrase “in accord,” which implies agreement or harmony. For the verb form, think of “accord” as something that you give or grant, such as respect or honor.
For the noun:
- Agreement and Concordance Create Overall Resolved Disputes.
For the verb:
- “Accord” as a verb means to Award or Assign.
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Accord (Noun): An agreement or harmony.
- Example Sentence (Noun): “The historic accord between the nations was celebrated worldwide.”
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Accord (Verb): To give or grant; to be in agreement.
- Example Sentence (Verb): “The president accorded the medal to the brave soldier.”
A person whose profession is to keep accounts
Accountant (N)
Sharp, bitter or harsh in temper, language etc
Acerbic (adj)
Acerbic (pronounced: \ə-ˈsər-bik) is an adjective that describes a sharp and forthright manner of speaking. It often implies a biting, harsh, or bitter tone, especially in criticism or remarks.
- Literary Context: “The author’s acerbic wit made his social commentaries both entertaining and thought-provoking.”
- Personal Interaction Context: “Her acerbic comments about the new policy left many of her colleagues feeling uncomfortable.”
- Media Context: “The critic’s acerbic review of the film sparked a lot of debate among moviegoers.”
To remember “acerbic,” think of “acid” or “acidic,” which can describe something that has a sharp or biting quality. The similarity in the sound and meaning can help you associate “acerbic” with sharpness in tone.
Imagine someone with a sharp tongue delivering comments that are as biting as acid. The “ac” in “acerbic” and “acid” can help you make this connection.
- Acerbic: Describes a sharp, biting, and forthright manner of speaking, often harsh or critical.
- Example Sentence: “His acerbic sense of humor was not appreciated by everyone, but those who understood it found him hilarious.”
- Mnemonic: Think of “acerbic” as similar to “acid,” indicating a sharp and biting quality in speech.
The scientific study of sound
Acoustics (N)
Acoustics (pronounced: \ə-ˈkü-stiks) is a noun that refers to the branch of physics concerned with the study of sound. It also refers to the qualities of a room, building, or other space that determine how sound is transmitted in it.
- Scientific Context: “He specializes in acoustics, focusing on how sound waves behave in different environments.”
- Architectural Context: “The concert hall was designed with excellent acoustics to ensure that every note could be heard clearly.”
- Descriptive Context: “The poor acoustics in the room made it difficult to hear the speaker.”
To remember “acoustics,” associate it with sound and how it behaves in different spaces. The term is often used when discussing sound quality, especially in contexts like music, architecture, and engineering.
Think of the word “acoustics” as starting with “a” like “audio” or “auditory,” which are both related to sound. This can help link the term to its meaning in your mind.
- Acoustics: The science of sound and the properties of spaces that affect how sound is transmitted.
- Example Sentence: “The acoustics of the new auditorium were so well-designed that even the softest whispers could be heard clearly.”
- Mnemonic: “A” for “audio” helps recall that acoustics is related to the study and quality of sound.
An entertainer who performs difficult physical feats
Acrobat (pronounced: \ˈa-krə-ˌbät) is a noun that refers to a person who performs spectacular gymnastic feats, such as tightrope walking, tumbling, and other physical stunts, typically as part of a circus or entertainment show.
- Performance Context: “The acrobat amazed the audience with her daring trapeze act.”
- Metaphorical Context: “He handled the complex situation with the skill of an acrobat, balancing all the demands perfectly.”
To remember “acrobat,” think of the word “acro” which relates to heights or high places, and “bat,” which suggests agility and movement. An acrobat is someone who performs high and agile feats.
Think of “acrobat” as “acro” (high) + “bat” (agile). Imagine a bat flying high and performing agile maneuvers, similar to an acrobat’s stunts.
- Acrobat: A person who performs spectacular gymnastic feats.
- Example Sentence: “The circus featured an acrobat who performed breathtaking aerial tricks.”
- Mnemonic: “Acro” (high) + “bat” (agile) helps recall that an acrobat performs high and agile feats.
And abbreviation formed from the initial letters of other words and pronounce as a word
Acronym (n)
Acronym (pronounced: \ˈa-krə-ˌnim / एक्रोनिम) is a noun that refers to a word formed from the initial letters of a multi-word name or phrase, with those letters being pronounced together as one word.
- Common Example: “NASA is an acronym for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.”
- Everyday Use: “The acronym ‘ASAP’ stands for ‘as soon as possible’.”
To remember “acronym,” think of it as a shortcut for longer phrases, where each letter represents a word in the original phrase.
Think of “acronym” as “a condensed name.” The “acro-“ part suggests “top” or “beginning,” and “-nym” means “name.” Together, they indicate a name made from the beginnings (initial letters) of words.
- Acronym: A word formed from the initial letters of a multi-word name or phrase.
- Example Sentence: “The acronym ‘UNICEF’ stands for the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund.”
- Mnemonic: “A condensed name” helps recall that an acronym is a word formed from the initial letters of other words.
Fear of great heights
Acrophobia (n)
Acrophobia (pronounced: \ˌa-krə-ˈfō-bē-ə / एक्रोफोबिया) is a noun that refers to an extreme or irrational fear of heights.
- Psychological Context: “Her acrophobia prevented her from enjoying the view from the rooftop.”
- Everyday Use: “Due to his acrophobia, he avoids activities like hiking in the mountains.”
To remember “acrophobia,” think of “acro-“ which relates to heights or high places, and “-phobia,” which means fear. Together, they indicate a fear of heights.
Think of “acrophobia” as “acro” (high) + “phobia” (fear). Imagine someone standing on a high place and feeling an intense fear.
- Acrophobia: An extreme or irrational fear of heights.
- Example Sentence: “His acrophobia was so severe that he couldn’t even look out the window of a tall building.”
- Mnemonic: “Acro” (high) + “phobia” (fear) helps recall that acrophobia means a fear of heights.
The ability to make good judgement and take quick decisions// sharpness and accuracy of judgement
Acumen (n)
Acumen (pronounced: \ˈa-kyə-mən / अक्यूमन) is a noun that refers to the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domain or field of expertise.
- Business Context: “Her financial acumen allowed her to make profitable investments.”
- Leadership Context: “The CEO’s strategic acumen led the company to great success.”
To remember “acumen,” think of it as being sharp or keen in a specific area, like having a keen sense of judgment or insight.
Think of “acumen” as “accurate mind.” The word “accurate” implies precision and correctness, which aligns with the idea of making good judgments and decisions.
- Acumen: The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a specific domain or field.
- Example Sentence: “His acumen in technology helped the team solve complex problems efficiently.”
- Mnemonic: “Accurate mind” helps recall that acumen means having a sharp and insightful mind.
To decide and state officially in court that somebody is not guilty of a crime
Acquit (v)
Acquit (pronounced: /əˈkwɪt/ / अक्विट) is a verb that refers to the act of freeing someone from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty or to conduct oneself in a specified manner.
- Legal Context: “The jury acquitted the defendant after reviewing all the evidence.”
- General Use: “She acquitted herself well in the challenging interview.”
To remember “acquit,” think of it as someone being “quit” or released from blame or charges.
Think of “acquit” as “a quit.” When someone is acquitted, they are “quit” of the charges against them, meaning they are free from blame.
- Acquit: To free someone from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty or to conduct oneself in a specified manner.
- Example Sentence: “The jury acquitted him of all charges due to lack of evidence.”
- Mnemonic: “A quit” helps recall that acquit means to be freed from charges.
The money paid to former wife, husband or partner when the marriage is ended
Alimony (n)
Alimony (pronounced: /ˈæl.ɪˌmoʊ.ni/ / ऐलिमोनी) is a noun that refers to a financial support payment one spouse is ordered to make to the other spouse following a divorce or separation.
- Legal Context: “The court ordered him to pay alimony to his ex-wife every month.”
- Financial Context: “She relied on the alimony payments to support herself after the divorce.”
To remember “alimony,” think of it as “a lemony” deal, where one party has to pay support money, often considered a sour part of the divorce process.
Think of “alimony” as “all money”—the paying spouse must give financial support, as if giving “all money” to the other.
- Alimony: A financial support payment one spouse is ordered to make to the other spouse following a divorce or separation.
- Example Sentence: “The judge determined the amount of alimony based on their standard of living during the marriage.”
- Mnemonic: “All money” helps recall that alimony involves financial support to a former spouse.