Thoreau Vocab

Question 1

expedient

Answer 1

convenient and practical although immoral

Question 2

virile

Answer 2

having manly vigour, masculine energy

Question 3

naught

Answer 3

nothing

Question 4

scourge

Answer 4

someone or something that causes pain/trouble

Question 5

discretion

Answer 5

freedom to decide what should be done

Question 6

demagogue

Answer 6

someone who gains power by playing to prejudice/emotion

Question 7

gregarious

Answer 7

fond of others’ company

Question 8

homage

Answer 8

tribute

Question 9

impetuous

Answer 9

impulsive or rash

Question 10

philanthropist

Answer 10

lover of mankind, promotes welfare of others

Question 11

earnest

Answer 11

genuine, sincere

Question 12

free-trade

Answer 12

trade between nations free of government control

Question 13

superfluous

Answer 13

excessive

Question 14

invidious

Answer 14

meant to cause resentment/discord

Question 15

shire

Answer 15

quaint little village

Question 16

obstinate

Answer 16

firm, stubborn

Question 17

Orpheus

Answer 17

poet who tried to save his wife from the underworld but ended up losing her because he looked at her

Question 18

pretext

Answer 18

ostensible reason that hides the real truth

Question 19

abet

Answer 19

encourage, support by aid/approval

Question 20

infer

Answer 20

reason/deduce an implication

Question 21

repose

Answer 21

place something in another’s trust OR rest

Question 22

rectitude

Answer 22

righteousness

Question 23

avail

Answer 23

to be of use or value to

Question 24

sanction

Answer 24

permission/approval OR restriction/punishment

Question 25

snivel

Answer 25

cry/complain