title Flashcards
objective
protégé
a person who is guided and supported by an older and more experienced or influential person
unsubstantiated
not supported by evidence
petulant
childishly sulky or bad-tempered
diffuse
spread over a wide area or among a large number of people
envision
imagine as a future possibility; visualize
tawny
of an orange-brown or yellowish-brown color
behoove
it is a duty for someone to do something
overhaul
a thorough examination of a system with changes made if necessary
breach
make a gap in and break through
abrasion
an area damaged by scraping or wearing away
annal
chronological record
bandit
a robber or outlaw belonging to a gang and typically operating in an isolated or lawless area
introspection
the examination of one’s own mental and emotional processes
trinket
a small item of little value
suppress
forcibly put an end to
whirlwind
used to describe a very energetic or tumultuous person or process
garish
obtrusively bright and showy; lurid
impermanent
not permanent
misguided
showing faulty judgment
expropriate
take away property from its owner
evergreen
retaining freshness and interest
tumultuous
excited, confused, disorderly
confidant
a person with whom one shares a private matter
conversant
familiar with or knowledgeable about something
suboptimal
of less than the highest standard
fruition
the point at which a plan or project is realized
uptick
a small increase
disfavor
treat someone or something with disapproval
touchstone
a standard by which something is judged
faineant
lazy, idle
formative
serving to form something, especially having a profound and lasting influence on a person’s development
tacit
understood or implied without being stated
magnify
make something appear larger than it is
jaded
tired, bored, or lacking enthusiasm, especially after having had too much of something
geriatric
relating to old people, especially in regard to their healthcare
pushback
a negative or unfavorable reaction
modernity
the quality of being modern
suggestible
easily swayed
rationalize
attempt to explain or justify with logical, plausible reasons, even if they’re not true
stipulate
demand or specify a requirement, typically as part of a bargain or agreement
equipoise
balances of forces or interests
good-natured
kind, friendly, and patient
supernumerary
present in excess of the normal or requisite number
emasculate
deprive a man of his male role or identity
quandary
a state of perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation
dispositive
relating to the settlement of an issue
muse
a person or personified force who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist
draconian
(of laws or their application) excessively harsh and severe
epistolary
relating to the writing of letters
orator
a public speaker, especially one who is eloquent or skilled
splinter
separate into smaller units, typically as a result of disagreement
commensurate
corresponding in size or degree
evince
reveal the presence of (a quality or feeling)
inapt
not suitable in the circumstances
mulish
stubborn
urbane
courteous and refined in manner
quash
put an end to; suppress
charade
an absurd pretense intended to create a pleasant appearance
willful
intentional; deliberate
furtive
attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive
reparation
the making of amends for a wrong one has done
elegy
a poem of serious reflection
minutiae
the small, precise, trivial details of something
brunt
the worst part or chief impact of a specified thing; the principal force, shock, or stress
actionable
giving sufficient reason to take legal action
probe
physically explore or examine something
lavish
sumptuously rich, elaborate, or luxurious; bestow something in generous quantities on
increasingly
to an increasing extent
decedent
a person who has died
entourage
a group of people surrounding an important person
pablum
bland intellectual fare
reprisal
an act of retaliation
astringent
slightly acidic or bitter
crucible
a situation of severe trial, or in which different elements interact, leading to the creation of something new
shirk
avoid or neglect a duty
irascible
tendency to be easily angered
dislodge
knock or force out of position; remove from a position of power
elapse
to slip or pass by
optics
the way in which something is seen by the public
efface
make oneself appear insignificant or inconspicuous
distasteful
offensive
forcible
done by force
unsanctioned
lacking effective or authoritative approval or consent
paradox
a logically self-contradictory statement
indelible
not able to be forgotten
stalwart
loyal, reliable, and hardworking; a loyal, reliable, and hardworking supporter or participant in an organization or team
pinnacle
the most successful point
unconscionable
not right or reasonable
relinquish
voluntarily cease to keep or claim; withdraw or retreat from
wordsmith
a person who has skill with using words
teeter
be unable to decide between different courses; waver
cognizable
perceptible; clearly identifiable
inequitable
unfair; unjust
slosh
move irregularly with a splashing sound
dismay
distress, typically that caused by something unexpected
zilch
nothing
ineffectual
not producing any or the desired effect
dalliance
a casual romantic or sexual relationship
trajectory
the path followed by a projectile flying or an object moving under the action of given forces
retroactively
with effect from a date in the past
siege
a military operation in which enemy forces surround a town or building, cutting off essential supplies, with the aim of compelling the surrender of those inside
unseemly
not proper or appropriate
coup
a sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from government
incorrigible
(of a person) not able to be corrected
laconic
using very few words
deranged
insane
avid
characterized by enthusiasm and vigorous pursuit
amnesty
a general pardon for offenses
predispose
make someone inclined to a specific attitude, action, or condition
facilitate
to make something easier
litany
repetitive series (e.g., he has a litany of grievances against his former employer)
enfeeble
make weak or feeble
anemic
suffering from anemia
labyrinth
maze
truculent
easily annoyed and always ready to argue
disclaim
refuse to acknowledge
toothless
lacking effectiveness
adaptable
able to adjust to new conditions
recompense
compensate
calibrate
adjust to take external factors into account or to allow comparison with other data
disavow
deny any responsibility or support for
hiatus
a pause or gap in a sequence, series, or process
reel
lose one’s balance and stagger violently
mastery
comprehensive knowledge in a subject or accomplishment
soured
having become bitter
dizzying
causing someone to feel unsteady, confused, or amazed
per se
by itself; intrinsically
gainfully
in a way that serves to increase wealth or resources
stochastic
randomly determined
acrimonious
(of speech or a debate) angry and bitter
repository
a place where things are stored
inflect
vary the pitch of the voice; change the form of a word to express a particular grammatical function
relic
an object surviving from an earlier time, especially one of historical or sentimental interest
crude
in a natural or raw state; not yet processed or refined; offensively coarse (rude) or explicit
prosperity
the condition of being successful or thriving
squalid
extremely dirty and unpleasant, especially as a result of poverty or neglect
scathing
severely critical
prolific
present in large numbers or quantities
trailblazing
innovative, pioneering
hivemind
an entity consisting of a large number of people who share their knowledge or opinions with one another, regarded as producing either uncritical conformity or collective intelligence
tacit
understood or implied without being stated
cavort
apply oneself enthusiastically to sexual or disreputable pursuits
exaltation
a state of extreme happiness
unwittingly
unintentionally
ornate
made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns
poise
graceful and elegant bearing in a person
concur
to agree
feral
in a wild state, especially after escape from captivity
meander
wander aimlessly
utopian
idealistic
captive
imprisoned or confined
viability
ability to work successfully
intrepid
brave
defeatist
a person who expects or is excessively ready to accept failure
calculated
done with full awareness of the likely consequences
insatiable
impossible to satisfy
invocation
the action of invoking something or someone for assistance
bashful
reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy
beget
give rise to
empower
give someone the authority or power to do something; make someone stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life
pawn
a person used by others for their own purposes
vaunt
boast about or praise something, especially excessively
spineless
lacking resolution; weak and purposeless
diminution
a reduction in the size, extent, or importance of something
fastidious
very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail
optical
relating to sight
bungle
carry out a task clumsily or incompetently
coax
gently and persistently persuade someone to do something
foment
instigate or stir up
pious
devoutly religious
accost
approach someone boldly or aggressively
mind-numbing
so intense as to prevent normal thought
skirmish
an episode of unpremeditated fighting
fortuitous
happening by accident rather than design
self-revelation
disclosure of one’s character or motives, especially inadvertently
spurt
gush out in a sudden and forceful stream
interrelate
relate to one another
tarnish
lose or cause to lose luster
solace
comfort in a time of distress
beleaguered
in a very difficult situation
drab
lacking brightness or interest
infidelity
the action of being unfaithful to a spouse or other sexual partner
pleonasm
the use of more words than are necessary to convey meaning, either as a fault of style or for emphasis (e.g., “see with one’s eyes”)
shafted
cheat or trick someone, or treat someone unfairly
banish
send someone away from a country or place as an official punishment
compelling
evoking interest, attention, or admiration; not able to be refuted
exhortative
serving to exhort
patronizing
apparently kind or helpful but betraying a feeling of superiority
abode
a place of residence
resounding
unmistakable
controvert
deny the truth of something
unmitigated
absolute
fine-tune
make small adjustments to something to achieve the best performance
atrocity
an extremely cruel attack, typically one involving physical violence or injury
gloat
contemplate or dwell on one’s own success or another’s misfortune with smugness
crestfallen
disappointed, sad
makeshift
serving as a temporary substitute
miscreant
a person who behaves badly or in a way that breaks the law
acrid
having an unpleasant taste or smell
benefactor
a person who gives money or other help to a person or cause
harbor
shelter or hide (a criminal or wanted person); keep (a thought or feeling, typically a negative one) in one’s mind, especially secretly
simulacrum
a representation of someone or something
flaunt
display ostentatiously
nativism
the policy of protecting the interests of native-born or established inhabitants against those of immigrants
conspicuous
obvious to the eye or mind
forge
create (a relationship)
motley
incongruously varied in appearance or character
indignant
showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment
unsuspecting
not aware of the presence of danger
subsist
maintain or support oneself, especially at a minimal level
risqué
slightly indecent and liable to shock, especially by being sexually suggestive
veiled
expressed in an indirect way
dissension
disagreement
teem
be full of or swarming with
transient
lasting only for a short time
fora
plural of forum
discordant
disagreeing
gimmick
a trick intended to attract attention, publicity, or business
stalwart
loyal, reliable, hardworking
granular
highly detailed
botch
carry out a task poorly or carelessly
arrears
money that is owed and should have been paid earlier
interlocutor
a person who takes part in a dialogue
unavailing
achieving little or nothing
pedantic
like a pedant
lobotomize
to perform a lobotomy on
prelude
an action or event serving as an introduction to something more important
insurmountable
too great to be overcome
emodiversity
a balance of different emotions
existential
relating to existence
pithy
concise and forcefully expressive
steadfast
resolutely firm
conciliate
placate, pacify
nakedly
blatantly; without concealing anything
profess
claim that one has a quality or feeling, especially when this is not the case
flatulent
gassy
judicious
done with good judgment
breadth
wide range or extent
upend
set something upside down
extract
remove
fair-minded
impartial in judgment
bristle
be covered with or abundant in
imperious
assuming power or authority without justification
adulation
excessive admiration or praise
erudite
having or showing great knowledge or learning
slated
planned or scheduled
desensitized
having been made less sensitive
contrition
feeling remorseful and penitent
stray
move away aimlessly from a group
caliber
the quality of someone’s character or the level of their ability
visceral
relating to deep inward feelings rather than to the intellect; relating to the internal organs of the body
ingest
absorb (information)
dazzled
amazed or overwhelmed with a particular impressive quality
disenchantment
a feeling of disappointment about someone or something you previously respected or admired
busk
perform music or other entertainment in the street or another public place for monetary donations
vigilante
a member of a self-appointed group of citizens who undertake law enforcement in their community without legal authority, typically because the legal agencies are thought to be inadequate
penitentiary
a prison for people convicted of serious crimes
disparage
regard as being of little worth
evade
avoid giving a direct answer to a question
extrapolate
extend the application of to an unknown situation by assuming that existing trends will continue
flex
put a skill to use
happenstance
coincidence
misconstrue
interpret wrongly
vilify
speak or write about in an abusively disparaging manner
caveat
a warning or proviso of specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations
codicil
an addition or supplement that explains, modifies, or revokes a will or part of one
impetus
the force that makes something happen
zonked
exhausted; under the influence of drugs or alcohol
nonstarter
a person, plan, or idea that has no chance of succeeding
ungainly
(of a person or movement) awkward; clumsy
shortsighted
lacking imagination or foresight
inexorable
impossible to stop
disarm
allay hostility/suspicion
grandstand
act or speak in a way intended to attract attention and to influence the opinion of people who are watching
weaponize
adapt for use as a weapon
side-eye
a sidelong glance expressing disapproval
revocation
official cancellation of a decision or promise
post hoc
done after the event, especially with reference to the fallacious assumption that the occurrence in question has a logical relationship with the event it follows
earmark
designate funds for a particular purpose
sizable
fairly large
topple
cause to become unsteady and fall
incredulity
the state of being unwilling or unable to believe something
torrid
very hot and dry
instrumental
serving as a means of pursuing an aim
oblique
not stated directly
truncate
shorten the duration or extent of
transfix
cause someone to become motionless with horror, wonder, or astonishment
limelight
the focus of public attention
brisk
active, fast, and energetic
diffident
modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence
precarious
not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse
inconsequential
not important or significant
inadvertently
unintentionally
categorical
unambiguously explicit and direct
subjective
based on personal opinions and feelings rather than facts
dismantle
take to pieces
shrewd
showing sharp powers of judgment
ridicule
subject someone to contemptuous and dismissive language or behavior
sham
something that’s not what it’s purported to be
extirpate
root out and destroy completely
materialize
become actual fact; happen
bustling
full of activity
fragility
the quality of being easily broken, delicate, vulnerable
restitution
the restoration of something lost or stolen to its proper owner
premeditated
planned beforehand
gushing
effusive
resourcefulness
the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties
moratorium
a temporary prohibition of an activity. In a legal context, temporary suspension of a law to allow a legal challenge to be carried out
florid
excessively intricate
prospect
the possibility or likelihood of some future event occurring
perturbed
feeling anxiety or concern
ravishing
delightful; entrancing
idealize
regard as perfect or better than in reality
vandalize
destroy/damage public/private property
erratic
not even or regular in pattern of movement; unpredicted
acquaint
make someone familiar with
gaunt
lean and haggard, especially because of suffering, hunger, or age
overlook
fail to notice something
obliquely
indirectly
mishap
an unlucky accident
semblance
the outward appearance or apparent form of something, esp. when the reality is different
sunder
split apart
unhurried
moving, acting, or taking place without haste or urgency
commensurate
corresponding in size or degree; in proportion to
co-opt
adopt an idea or policy for one’s own use
embroil
involve someone deeply in an argument
bypass
go past
far-reaching
having important and widely applicable effects or implications
impinge
have an effect on, especially a negative one
fallacious
based on a mistaken belief
efficacy
the ability to produce a desired or intended result
obviate
remove a need or difficulty
render
cause to be or become
subliminal
below the threshold of sensation or consciousness; affecting someone’s mind without their being aware of it
jovial
cheerful and friendly
imitative
following a model or example
duly
in accordance with what is required or appropriate; as might be expected or predicted
clandestine
kept secret, especially because illicit
evasive
tending to avoid commitment or self-revelation, especially by responding only indirectly
pliable
easily bent; easily influenced
unswerving
steady, constant
betray
unintentionally reveal; be evidence of
weary
cause to become tired
wheelhouse
one’s area of expertise
quintessential
representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class
inebriated
intoxicated
immaculate
perfectly neat and clean
gratuitous
uncalled for, lacking good reason
harangue
a lengthy, aggressive speech
alas
an expression of grief, pity, or concern
stagger
walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall
bombast
high-sounding language with little meaning, used to impress people
constable
a peace officer with limited policing authority, typically in a small town
finagle
obtain something by devious or dishonest means
galvanize
shock or excite into taking action
mendacious
lying
remiss
lacking care or attention to duty; negligent
marginal
small or not very important
recede
move further away from a previous position
typify
be a representative example of
rehash
put old ideas or material into a new form without significant change or improvement
frenetic
fast and energetic in a wild and uncontrolled way
scant
barely sufficient or adequate
derive
obtain something from
zenith
the time at which something is most powerful or successful
mediocre
of only moderate quality
squabble
a noisy quarrel over something trivial
terse
abrupt
enclave
a place or group that is different in character from those surrounding it
decisively
in a manner that settles an issue convincingly or produces a definite result
supposition
an uncertain belief
dub
give an unofficial name or nickname to
tic
an idiosyncratic and habitual feature of a person’s behavior
hypochondriac
a person who is abnormally anxious about their health
canonical
conforming to a general rule
impute
represent (something, especially something undesirable) as being done, caused, or possessed by someone; attribute
blackmail
demand money or another benefit from someone in return for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them
sweeping
wide in range or effect
duress
the act of using force, false imprisonment, coercion, threats, or psychological pressure to compel someone to act contrary to their wishes or interests
kindred
one’s family and relations
negligible
so small or unimportant as to be not worth considering; insignificant
grit
courage and resolve; strength of character
quarrel
a heated argument or disagreement
tender
to present for acceptance
conscientious
wishing to do what is right, esp. to do one’s work well and thoroughly
bucolic
relating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside and country life
stipulation
a condition or requirement that is specified as part of an agreement
humility
humbleness
subsidiary
less important than but related or supplementary to something
titled
(of a person) having a title indicating high social or official rank
insignia
a badge or distinguishing mark of military rank, office, or membership of an organization; an official emblem
hedge
limit or qualify by conditions or exceptions
cognition
Cognition – the mental action or process
insistent
insisting or demanding something; regular and repeated, and demanding attention
incantation
a series of words said as a magic spell
imbue
permeate with (a feeling or quality)
trounce
defeat heavily in a contest
hybrid
mixture
import
the meaning or significance of something, especially when not directly stated
wane
decrease in vigor, power, or extent
improvident
not showing foresight; thoughtless
effuse
talk in an unrestrained, excited manner
mum
keeping quiet
apex
the highest part of something, especially one forming a point
handsomely
substantially
memento
an object kept as a reminder of a person or event
resultant
occurring as a result of something
senseless
lacking common sense
depraved
morally corrupt; wicked
antecedent
a thing or event that existed before or logically precedes another
polymath
a person of wide-ranging knowledge
defy
openly resist; challenge someone to do or prove something
bevy
a large group of people/things
doggedly
in a manner that shows tenacity and grim persistence
nifty
particularly skillful or effective; stylish
prudent
acting with or showing care and thought for the future
cataclysmic
used to emphasize the extent of something bad or unwelcome
palatial
relating to a palace
scant
barely sufficient
ward
a separate room in a hospital, typically one allocated to a particular type of patient
reclaim
retrieve or recover something previously lost, given, or paid
zealot
a person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, political, or other ideals
slipshod
characterized by a lack of care, thought, or organization
unhinged
mentally unbalanced
lampoon
publicly criticize by using ridicule, irony, or sarcasm
squelch
a soft sucking sound made when pressure is applied to liquid or mud
ipse dixit
a dogmatic and unproven statement
albatross
a psychological burden that feels like a curse
enigma
a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand
imposing
grand and impressive in appearance
rash
displaying a lack of careful consideration of the possible consequences of an action
carnage
the killing of a large number of people
dapple
mark with spots
woefully
in a manner expressing sorrow or misery
unflappable
showing calmness in a crisis
repose
a state of rest, sleep, or tranquility
convoluted
extremely complex and difficult to follow
instigate
bring about or initiate
mendacity
untruthfulness
conundrum
a confusing and difficult problem or question
inconsolable
not able to be comforted or alleviated
trivialize
make something seem less important, significant, or complex than it actually is
unveil
show or announce publicly for the first time
caustic
sarcastic in a scathing and bitter way
mirage
something that appears real or possible but is not in fact so. An optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, especially the appearance of a sheet of water in a desert or on a hot road caused by the refraction of light from the sky by heated air
impertinent
not showing proper respect, rude; irrelevant
swift
happening promptly
inordinate
unusually or disproportionately large; excessive
au fait
having good knowledge of
ostensibly
apparently or purportedly, but perhaps not actually
deliberative
intended for consideration or discussion
necessitate
make necessary
wide-ranging
covering an extensive range
dispassionate
not influenced by strong emotion
sputter
make a series of soft, explosive sounds, typically when being heated or as a symptom of a fault
stim
to engage in repetitive physical movements or articulated noises, often in reaction to a mental or emotional state: especially common in young children and those with developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder
prequel
a story or movie containing events that precede those of an existing work
stupendous
extremely impressive
hubris
excessive pride or self-confidence
steel
mentally prepare oneself to do or face something difficult
indivisible
unable to be divided or separated
descend
move or fall downward
legion
great in number
debased
reduced in quality/value
tawdry
showy but cheap and of poor quality
congruent
in agreement or harmony
pique
stimulate interest
splay
thrust or spread out
dystopian
denoting an imagined state or society where there is great suffering or injustice
precipitate
cause to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely
duty-bound
morally or legally obliged to do something
power grab
to obtain control over something in an opportunistic way
succinct
briefly and clearly expressed
amble
walk or move at a slow, relaxed pace
slate
criticize severely
amalgamation
the action of combining or uniting
ordain
make someone a priest or minister
err
be mistaken or incorrect
resurface
come back up to the surface
reverberate
be repeated several times as an echo
debrief
a series of questions about a completed mission
nullity
an act or thing that is legally void; a thing of no importance or worth
gala
a social occasion with special entertainment or performances
cynical
believing that people are motivated by self-interest
inextricable
impossible to escape from
strained
showing signs of tiredness
morose
sullen and ill-tempered
primordial
existing at the beginning of time; basic and fundamental
onslaught
a fierce or destructive attack; a large quantity of people or things that is difficult to deal with
palpable
so intense as to seem almost tangible
ruse
a trick
denizen
an inhabitant or frequenter of a particular place
chicanery
the use of tricks to deceive someone
tactic
a strategy carefully planned to achieve a specific end
empathic
showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another
preordained
decided beforehand
magisterial
having or showing great authority
tuneful
having a pleasant tune
polemicist
a person who engages in controversial debate
scoundrel
a dishonest person
scapegoat
a person who is blamed for wrongdoings
conflate
combine into one
mounting
increasing, often in a manner that causes anxiety
pundit
an expert in a particular field who is frequently called on to give opinions about it to the public
duplicitous
deceitful
beacon
a fire or light set up in a high or prominent position as a warning, signal, or celebration
ho-hum
used to express boredom
ascribe
attribute something to (a cause)
hyperbole
exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally
diffuse
spread out over a large area
budding
beginning and showing signs of promise in a particular career or field
transgress
go beyond the bounds of
picayune
petty; worthless
fulsome
flattering to an excessive degree; generous or abundant
rigor
extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate
malaise
a general feeling of discomfort, illness, or uneasiness
gleam
shine brightly
eclectic
deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources
gawk
stare openly and stupidly
stew
a state of great anxiety
cadaverous
resembling a corpse in being very pale, thin, or bony
spirited
full of energy, enthusiasm, and determination
creditable
deserving public acknowledgment and praise but not necessarily outstanding or successful
turbulent
characterized by conflict, disorder, confusion; not controlled or calm
portend
be a sign or warning that something momentous is likely to happen
mangle
severely disfigure or damage
compulsory
required by law or a rule; obligatory
trace
find or discover by investigation
fantastical
based on or existing only in fantasy
institutionalize
keep someone in a residential institution
rift
a crack, split, or break in something
integrate
combine one thing with another
meddle
interfere unwantedly
dynamism
characterized by vigorous activity and progress
practitioner
a person actively engaged in an art, discipline, or profession, especially medicine
vandal
a person who deliberately destroys public or private property
predicate
found or base something on
facile
appearing neat and comprehensive only by ignoring the true complexities of an issue
beholden
owing thanks or having a duty to someone in return for help or a service
handily
in a skillful manner; easily
directive
an official instruction
inundate
overwhelm someone with things; flood
voluble
talking fluently, readily, or incessantly
unabashed
not embarrassed or ashamed
envelop
surround completely
myopic
lacking imagination, foresight, or intellectual insight
sustenance
food and drink regarded as a source of strength; the maintaining of someone or something in life or existence
sojourn
a temporary stay
economical
careful not to waste money or resources
proponent
a person who advocates a theory, proposal, or project
unspoiled
(of a place) not marred by development
notwithstanding
in spite of
inherently
in a permanent, essential or characteristic way
salutation
a gesture or utterance made as a greeting or acknowledgment of another’s arrival or departure
summon
urgently call on someone to be present
innuendo
an allusive or oblique remark or hint, typically a suggestive one
pretext
a reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason
emaciated
abnormally thin or weak, especially because of illness or starvation
showcase
display
twilight
a period of obscurity, ambiguity, or gradual decline
yearn
have an intense feeling of longing for something
devalue
reduce or underestimate the importance of
induction
the process of giving rise to something
cater
provide what someone wants or needs
conjure
call upon (a spirit or ghost) to appear, by means of a magic ritual
widow
a woman who has lost her spouse by death and has not remarried
brusque
abrupt or offhand in speech or manner
endeavor
an attempt to achieve a goal
focused
attentive
prestigious
having high status; inspiring respect
mirth
amusement, especially as expressed in laughter
gingerly
in a careful and cautious manner
extant
still existing
proprietary
relating to an owner or ownership
bon vivant
a person who enjoys a sociable and luxurious lifestyle
unnerve
make someone lose courage or confidence
suborn
bribe or induce someone to commit an unlawful act such as perjury
befuddling
confusing or perplexing
recant
say that one no longer holds an opinion or belief
trepidation
a feeling of fear about something that may happen
gnaw
bite at or nibble something persistently; cause persistent and wearing distress
iconic
widely recognized
fusion
the process or result of joining two or more things together to form a single entity
incipient
in an initial stage
hone
refine or perfect something over a period of time
renowned
known or talked about by many people; famous
provocateur
agitator
pry
inquire too closely into a person’s private affairs
presumptive
presumed in the absence of further information
indulge
become involved in (an activity, typically one that is disapproved of); allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of
tangential
diverging from a previous course or line; erratic
unequivocal
leaving no doubt
vis a vis
with regard to
charismatic
exercising a compelling charm that inspires devotion in others
intractable
hard to control or deal with
impulsive
tending to do things suddenly and without careful thought
opinionated
conceitedly assertive and dogmatic in one’s opinions
benighted
in a state of pitiful or contemptible intellectual or moral ignorance, typically owing to a lack of opportunity
bromide
a trite and unoriginal idea or remark, typically intended to placate
parodic
having the nature of parody
akin
of similar character
foreclose
prevent a course of action
compunction
a feeling of guilt
incandescent
passionate
profusely
to a great degree
flurry
a small swirling mass of something
humility
humbleness
undermine
lessen the effectiveness, power, or ability of, especially gradually
apathetic
showing no interest, enthusiasm, or concern
proverbial
well known, especially so as to be stereotypical
pure-minded
having a mind that is free from moral taint or defilement
dutifully
in a conscientious or obedient manner
perpetuate
make something continue indefinitely
double down
strengthen one’s commitment to a particular strategy or course of action, typically one that is potentially risky
transgression
an act that goes against a law, rule, or code of conduct; an offense
underpinning
a set of ideas, motives, or devices that justify or form the basis for something
impede
hinder
dither
be indecisive
affluence
wealth
estranged
no longer close or affectionate to someone
recalcitrant
having an uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline
reservations
implies reluctance
cull
obtain from a variety of sources
non sequitur
a conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement
vigil
a period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep
gander
to look or glance
defile
sully, mar, or spoil
ultraviolent
characterized by extreme acts of violence
juncture
a place where things join; a particular point in time
dignified
having a composed manner that is worthy of respect
shepherd
guide or direct in a particular direction
hamstring
severely restrict the efficiency of
illicit
forbidden by laws, rules, or custom
prideful
having an excessively high opinion of oneself
gripe
complain about something in a persistent, irritating way
volition
the power of using one’s will
centerpiece
an item, issue, etc. intended to be a focus of attention
plummet
drop straight down at a high speed
ironclad
so secure as to be unbreakable
incendiary
designed to cause fires
scruple
a feeling of doubt or hesitation with regard to the morality of a course of action
abstain
restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something
diminutive
extremely small
brute
a savagely violent person
assemble
gather together in one place for a common purpose
intemperate
showing a lack of self-control
eternal
existing forever
ludicrous
ridiculous
indelicate
having a lack of sensitive understanding or tact
grievous
very severe
triumphant
having won a battle; victorious
interface
a point where two systems, subjects, organizations, etc. meet and interact
serendipitous
occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way
truce
an agreement between enemies to stop fighting for a certain time
stupor
a state of near-unconsciousness
gravity
seriousness
behemoth
something enormous, especially a big and powerful organization
parting
done when leaving someone
indeterminate
not exactly known, established, or defined
lecherous
showing excessive sexual desire
shellshock
a state of severe shock
perilous
full of danger or risk
desecrate
to treat a sacred place or thing with violent disrespect
indoctrinate
teach a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically
summarily
in a summary manner; without the customary formalities
tortious
constituting a tort; wrongful
well-versed
very knowledgeable
loiter
stand or wait around without apparent purpose
capsize
overturn in the water
niche
a suitable position in life or employment; a specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service
vestige
a trace of something that is disappearing or no longer exists
air
an impression of a quality given by someone; express an opinion publicly
gush
speak with effusiveness or exaggerated enthusiasm
intimate
imply or hint at
lucid
expressed clearly; bright
stringency
strictness
artifice
clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially as used to trick or deceive others
foreboding
a feeling that something bad will happen; implying that something bad will happen
entrancing
capable of attracting and holding interest
consternation
feelings of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected
edgy
tense, nervous, irritable; at the forefront of a trend
salvo
a sudden, vigorous, or aggressive act or series of acts
vile
extremely unpleasant
ambivalent
having mixed feelings
exodus
a mass departure of people, especially emigrants
immaterial
unimportant under the circumstances
unbidden
without having been commanded or invited
conviction
a firmly held belief
bereft
lacking something; sad and lonely, especially through someone’s death or departure
impressionable
easily influenced because of a lack of critical ability
blanket
total and inclusive; covering all cases or instances
phonetic
relating to speech sounds
well-nigh
almost
raucous
loud noise
propulsive
having the quality of pushing forward
insensibility
unconsciousness
indolent
lazy
woe
great sorrow, distress
indemnify
compensate someone for harm or loss
repetitious
another term for repetitive
expiate
atone for guilt or sin
onus
one’s duty
incurious
not eager to know something; lacking curiosity
commendation
praise
explicable
able to be accounted for or understood
contort
twist or bend out of normal shape
ineptitude
lack of skill or ability
spur
give an incentive or encouragement to (someone)
dosage
the size or frequency of a dose of a medicine or drug
expend
spend or use up (a resource such as money, time, or energy)
drawback
disadvantage
patois
the dialect of the common people of a region, differing in various respects from the standard language of the rest of the country
sensationalize
(especially of a newspaper) present information about something in a way that provokes public interest and excitement at the expense of accuracy
counterbalance
an influence that offsets an opposing force
intuitive
based on what one feels to be true even without conscious reasoning
suggestive
tending to suggest an idea
credence
belief in or acceptance of something as true
looming
(of an event regarded as threatening) about to happen
rousing
exciting
entrenched
firmly established and difficult to change
recur
occur again
avant-garde
new and unusual or experimental ideas, especially in the arts
primitive
relating to an early stage in the evolutionary development of something
incontrovertible
not able to be disputed
Monday morning quarterback
a person who passes judgment on and criticizes something after the event
expedient
convenient and practical although possibly improper
galore
in abundance
kosher
genuine and legitimate
opaque
not able to be seen through
concentric
denoting circles or other shapes that share the same center
disquieting
inducing feelings of worry
cacophony
a harsh discordant mixture of sounds
pendent
undecided; pending
vogue
the prevailing fashion or style at a particular time
rudimentary
involving basic principles
interplay
the way in which two or more things have an effect on each other
nix
put an end to
unabated
without any reduction in intensity or strength
inter
place a corpse in a grave or tomb
churlish
rude in a mean-spirited and surly way
bohemian
a socially unconventional person, especially one who is involved in the arts
multi-hyphenate
a person with several professions/skills
smattering
a small amount of something
insulate
protect something by interposing material that prevents the loss of heat or the intrusion of sound
stringent
strict, precise, exacting
precocious
having developed certain abilities at an earlier age than usual
upside
a positive aspect of something
seaworthy
in good enough condition to sail on the sea
subserve
help to further or promote
intercept
obstruct someone or something so as to prevent them from continuing to a destination
faction
a small organized dissenting group within a larger one, especially in politics
memoir
a historical account or biography written from personal knowledge or special sources
scour
to search a place carefully
syndicate
a group of individuals or organizations combined to promote common interest
audit
an official inspection of an individual’s or organization’s accounts, typically by an independent body
conclusive
serving to prove a case
maroon
leave someone trapped and isolated in an inaccessible place, especially an island
self-sufficient
needing no outside help in satisfying one’s basic needs; emotionally and intellectually independent
debase
degrade
confluence
an act or process of merging
revelation
a surprising and previously unknown fact
devolution
the transfer or delegation of power to a lower level, especially by central government to local or regional administration
resonate
evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief with someone
expiate
atone for guilt or sin
sprightly
(especially of an old person) lively; full of energy
mystify
utterly bewilder or perplex
tactical
constituting actions carefully planned to gain a specific military end
expediency
the quality of being convenient and practical despite possibly being improper or immoral
sensical
making sense, rational
snug
tight or close-fitting
incumbent
the holder of an office; necessary for someone as a responsibility
appropriation
the action of taking something for one’s own use typically without the owner’s permission
abrogate
repeal or do away with; evade a responsibility
frenzy
a state of uncontrolled excitement or wild behavior
brazen
bold and without shame
prowess
expertise in a particular activity or field
constellation
a cluster of related things
overstep
exceed
onerous
involving an amount of effort that is oppressively burdensome
skid
slide, typically sideways, on slippery ground or as a result of stopping or turning too quickly
sanguine
optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation
writhe
make squirming movements
equitable
fair and impartial
trope
a figurative or metaphorical use of a word or expression
contrivance
the use of skill to bring something about or create something
underscore
to stress; emphasize
activism
the policy or action of using vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change
attributable
regarded as being caused by
inviolability
the quality of being safe from assault, trespass, or violation
amid
in the middle of
grounded
well-balanced and sensible
tut-tut
expressing disapproval or annoyance
jubilant
feeling great happiness and triumph
heresy
belief contrary to orthodox religious (esp. Christian) doctrine
hearken
listen
wield
have and be able to use power and influence
fickle-minded
likely to change frequently without good reason
replete
well-supplied with something
predicate
base something on
insuperable
impossible to overcome
assuage
make an unpleasant feeling less intense
domineering
asserting one’s will over another in an arrogant way
gritty
showing courage and resolve
intransigent
unwilling to change one’s views
combative
eager to fight
ilk
a type of people or things similar to those already referred to
concede
admit that something is true or valid after first denying or resisting it
softball (adjective)
easy
meager
lacking in quantity or quality
sulky
morose, bad-tempered, resentful
menacing
threatening
sagacious
quick and wise in understanding and judgment
ensue
occur as a result
reify
make (something abstract) more concrete or real
repurpose
adapt for use in a different purpose
recumbent
lying down
sanctuary
a place of refuge or safety
hasten
be quick to do something
spastic
relating to muscle spasms
disreputable
not considered to be respectable in character or appearance
scattershot
denoting something that is broad but random and haphazard in its range
addlepated
confused; mixed up
sedate
calm, dignified, unhurried
phenomenon
a fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen, especially one whose cause or explanation is in question
fruitful
productive
deep-six
destroy or dispose of something irretrievably
hapless
unfortunate
languish
grow weak or feeble
soft-pedal
refrain from emphasizing the more unpleasant aspects of something
afflict
cause pain or suffering to
cadence
inflection of the voice
masquerade
a false show or pretense
sequestered
isolated and hidden away
radiant
shining brightly
accomplice
a person who knowingly gives assistance to another in the commission of a crime
dislocation
disturbance from a proper or usual place or state
aspirate
inhale
heuristic
enabling someone to discover or learn something for themselves
reconvene
convene again
theologian
someone who studied the nature of God and religion
deserving
worthy of being treated in a particular way
conjecture
an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information
implicit
implied, not plainly expressed
preface
introduce or begin something with
bearish
pessimistic
fundamentally
in central or primary respects
repatriate
send someone back to their own country
prissy
excessively respectable
concurrently
simultaneously
severed
having been cut or sliced off
odious
deserving hatred
seasonable
usual for or appropriate to a particular season of the year
occult
supernatural, mystical, or magical beliefs
attune
make aware
procure
obtain something with care and effort
vexatious
causing annoyance
cavalcade
a formal procession of people walking, on horseback, or riding in vehicles
disreputable
not considered to be respectable in character or appearance
rejuvenate
give new energy or vigor to; revitalize
derail
cause to leave its tracks accidentally
nudge
prod someone in order to draw their attention to something
forlorn
sad and abandoned
disposition
the way in which something is arranged, especially in relation to other things; a person’s inherent qualities of mind and character
heady
having a strong or exhilarating effect
refine
remove impurities or unwanted elements from; improve by making small changes
promulgate
promote or make widely known
veer
change direction suddenly
redress
remedy an unfair situation
discernible
able to be discerned
formality
something done simply to comply with requirements of etiquette
entrust
assign responsibility for doing something to someone
unprompted
said, done, or acting without being encouraged
feeble
lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness
seminal
strongly influencing later developments
unwieldy
difficult to carry or move because of its size, shape, or weight
salivate
display great relish at the sight or prospect of something
inoculate
to introduce a microorganism into; vaccinate
evangelical
according to the teaching of Christianity
proverb
a short saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice
frolic
play or move about cheerfully
sabbatical
a period of paid leave granted to a university professor for study or travel, traditionally one year for every seven years worked
assail
violently attack
incursion
an invasion or attack
marquee
a canopy projecting over the entrance to a theater, hotel, or other building
retribution
punishment inflicted on someone as vengeance for a wrong act
peremptory
insisting on immediate attention or obedience
immeasurable
too large or extreme to measure
lurid
very vivid in color, especially so as to create an unpleasantly harsh or unnatural effect; presented in vividly shocking or sensational terms, especially giving explicit details of crimes of sexual matters
foresee
predict
disillusion
disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be
pogrom
an organized massacre of a particular ethnic group
disseminate
spread something, especially information, widely
dearth
scarcity
disinformation
false or misleading information that is spread deliberately to deceive
voluptuous
characterized by luxury or sensual pleasure
catastrophize
to imagine the worst possible outcome of an action
armchair
lacking direct experience
exempt
free from an obligation
uphold
confirm or support; maintain
dwindle
diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
invasive
intruding on a person’s thoughts or privacy
vanilla
ordinary, standard
unassuming
not pretentious or arrogant; modest
revisit
visit again
linchpin
a person/thing vital to an organization
bestow
present (an honor, right, or gift)
vengeance
punishment inflicted for an injury
antipathy
a deep-seated feeling of dislike
tidbit
a small and particularly interesting item of gossip or information
boast
talk with excessive pride about one’s achievements, possessions, or abilities
earnest
showing sincere conviction
declamatory
vehement or impassioned in expression
contiguous
next or together in sequence; sharing a common border, touching
mania
an excessive enthusiasm; obsession
cursory
hasty and therefore not thorough or detailed
pummel
criticize; strike repeatedly
inescapably
in a way that cannot be avoided or ignored
tedium
the state of being tedious
contrive
create or bring about by deliberate use of skill and artifice
unbridled
uncontrolled
murderous
dangerously violent
indigent
poor; needy
punctilious
showing great attention to detail or correct behavior
rebuff
reject someone or something in an abrupt or ungracious manner
immolate
kill or destroy, esp. by fire
foreground
make something the most prominent or important feature
summate
to add together
self-abasing
belittling oneself
maverick
unorthodox
degenerate
an immoral or corrupt person
counteract
act against something to reduce its force or neutralize it
exuberant
characterized by a lively energy and excitement
leverage
use something to maximum advantage
vengeful
seeking to harm someone in return for a perceived injury
mar
impair the appearance of
illuminating
helping to clarify or explain something
malleable
easily influenced, pliable
avert
turn away one’s eyes or thoughts; prevent
ration
a fixed amount of a commodity officially allowed to each person during a time of shortage, as in wartime
misfeasance
a transgression, especially the wrongful exercise of lawful authority
shifty
appearing deceitful or evasive
resolve (noun)
resoluteness; firm determination to do something
decadent
reflecting a state of moral or cultural decline
belittle
make someone or something seem unimportant
genesis
the origin of something
emphatic
expressing something forcibly and clearly
proliferate
increase rapidly in number
archetype
a very typical example of a person or thing
capricious
given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior
partition
divide into parts
elitist
considered superior by others or by themselves, an in intellect, talent, power, wealth, or position in society
unscrupulous
having or showing no moral principles
wince
give a slight involuntary grimace out of or in anticipation of pain or distress
wasteland
a bleak, unattractive, and unused or neglected urban or industrial area
androgynous
partly male and female in appearance
tactful
showing an ability to do or say things without offending other people
shameless
showing a lack of shame
synergy
the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
savage
fierce, violent, uncontrolled
purgatory
having the quality of cleansing or purifying
convalesce
recover one’s health and strength over a period of time after an illness or operation
floored
to surprise someone so much that they don’t know what to say or do
parabole
a formal simile used in poetry
pompous
irritatingly grand, solemn, or self-important
employ
make use of
tasteless
lacking in aesthetic judgment
foremost
most prominent in rank, importance, or position
palindrome
a word, phrase, or sequence that reads the same backwards as forward (e.g., madam)
naivety
lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment; innocence or unsophistication
priggish
self-righteously superior
arbitrary
based on random choice or person whim, rather than any reason
haven
a place of safety or refuge
pliable
flexible; easily influenced
thankless
(of a job) difficult or unpleasant
vacillate
alternate between different options
preclude
prevent from happening
ply
to keep giving someone something, especially food or drink
luxuriate
enjoy oneself in a luxurious way; take self-indulgent delight
rupture
break or burst suddenly
mount
organize and initiate
forensic
relating to the application of scientific methods and techniques to the investigation of crime
forgiving
willing to forgive
nuisance
a person, thing, or circumstance causing inconvenience or annoyance
vendetta
a blood feud in which the family of a murdered person seeks vengeance on the murderer or the murderer’s family
derogation
an exemption from a rule/law
about-face
a complete change of opinion or behavior
besmirch
damage the reputation of
eudaemonic
conducive to happiness
sparing
economical
feckless
lacking initiative or strength of character; irresponsible
remuneration
payment or compensation received for services or employment
salient
most noticeable or important
marvel
be filled with wonder or astonishment; a wonderful or astonishing person or thing
temperament
a person’s nature, especially as it permanently affects their behavior
barrage
bombard someone with something
orchestrate
arrange the elements of a situation to produce a desired effect, especially surreptitiously
poised
having a composed and self-assured manner
genial
friendly and cheerful
resourceful
having the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties
militate
be a powerful or conclusive factor in preventing
ravaged
severely damaged
metastasize
(of a cancer) spread to other sites in the body
protracted
lasting for a long time or longer than expected
persecute
subject someone to hostility and ill-treatment
propel
spur into a particular situation
indignity
circumstances that cause one to feel shame
misanthrope
a person who dislikes humankind
omnipotent
having unlimited power
shoddy
badly made or done
deafening
so loud as to make it impossible to hear anything else
incisive
intelligently analytical and clear-thinking
plethora
a large amount of something
downplay
make something appear less important than it really is
adjourn
break off (a meeting, legal case, or game) with the intention of resuming it later
resuscitate
revive someone from apparent death
adroit
clever or skillful
idyllic
extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque
armistice
an agreement made by opposing sides in a war to stop fighting for a certain time
frailty
weakness in character or morals
ideation
the formation of ideas
coalition
a group of people or organizations working together to achieve something
doubly
to twice the normal extent; especially
ideally
preferably
stasis
a period of inactivity or equilibrium
unctuous
excessively flattering
impetuous
characterized by sudden/rash action/emotion
compulsion
the state of being forced to do something; an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against one’s conscious wishes
catatonia
abnormality of movement and behavior arising from a disturbed mental state
abashed
feeling uneasy and self-conscious
implore
beg someone earnestly to do something
untenable
not able to be defended against attack or objection
mull
think about (a fact, proposal, or request) deeply and at length
sloven
a person who is habitually messy/careless
indulgent
having a tendency to be overly generous to or lenient with someone
raunchy
vulgar and often sexually explicit
magnate
a wealthy and influential person, especially in business
demonstrably
clearly apparent
grisly
causing horror or disgust
luster
a glow of reflected light
regurgitate
repeat information without analyzing or comprehending it
slothful
lazy
dialectical
relating to the logical discussion of ideas and opinions
intersect
divide something by passing or lying across it
bravado
a bold manner intended to impress
crass
lacking sensitivity or intelligence
fraternize
form a friendship with someone, especially when one is not supposed to
censure
express severe disapproval of, especially in a formal statement
deface
spoil the appearance of
cascade
pour downward rapidly and in large quantities
zealous
passionate
buttress
reinforce; strenghten
affinity
a natural liking or sympathy for someone or something
conviviality
friendliness
ubiquitous
present everywhere
dismal
dreary
retort
say something in response to a remark or accusation, typically in a sharp, angry, or incisive manner
consummate
showing a high degree of skill and flair
trifle
a thing of little value or importance
animated
lively
implicate
show someone to be involved in a crime; imply
self-serving
having concerns for one’s own welfare and interests before those of others
reckoning
a view, opinion, or judgment
sap
gradually weaken or destroy
shortcoming
a fault or failure to meet a certain standard
deft
demonstrating skill and cleverness
eclipse
obscure the light from or to
absquatulate
leave abruptly
effectuate
put into force
self-deprecating
modest about or critical of oneself, especially humorously so
normalize
return to a normal or standard condition
gleeful
exuberantly or triumphantly joyful
pyrrhic
(of a victory) won at too great a cost to have been worthwhile for the victor
buoy
keep someone or something afloat
solarium
a room with extensive areas of glass to admit sunlight
phalanx
a body of troops or police officers standing or moving in close formation
mushroom
to become enlarged
spurn
to reject with disdain or contempt
seemingly
so as to give the impression of having a certain quality
hankering
a strong desire to have or do something
atone
to make amends
countenance
a person’s face or facial expression; support
renunciation
the formal rejection of something, typically a belief, claim, or course of action
belatedly
later than should have been the case
genuflect
show deference/servility
eminent
famous and respected within a particular sphere or profession
broach
raise a sensitive or difficult subject for discussion
consult
seek advice from
indelicate
having a lack of sensitive understanding or tact
echo
be reminiscent of or have shared characteristics with
commune
a group of people living together and sharing possessions and responsibilities
decadence
moral or cultural decline as characterized by excessive indulgence in pleasure or luxury
haughty
arrogantly superior and disdainful
glib
fluent and voluble but insincere and shallow
ephemeral
lasting for a very short time
crisp
briskly decisive and matter-of-fact, without hesitation or unnecessary detail
malice
desire to cause pain or distress to another
corollary
a proposition that follows from one already provided
impale
to pierce or transfix with a sharp object
ascent
a climb to the summit of a mountain
connotation
an idea that a word invokes in addition to its literal meaning
supplant
supersede and replace
markedly
significantly
speculative
based on conjecture rather than knowledge
amplify
cause to become more marked or intense
forthwith
immediately; without delay
incendiary
designed to cause fires
discursive
digressing from subject to subject
dogmatic
inclined to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true
serial
taking place in a series; repeatedly committing the same offense
self-righteous
characterized by a certainty, especially an unfounded one, that one is totally correct or morally superior
upturn
an improvement or upward trend, especially in economic conditions or someone’s fortunes
injurious
likely to cause damage
notoriety
the state of being well known for some bad quality or deed
culminate
reach a point of highest development
nonsensical
making no sense
coarse
rude, crude, or vulgar
unreflecting
not engaging in reflection or thought
impanel
enroll someone onto a jury
wallow
indulge in an unrestrained way
venerate
regard with great respect
posthumously
after the death of the originator
inattentive
not paying attention
unremarkable
ordinary; unlikely to be noticed
martyr
a person who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs
recuse
to disqualify oneself as a judge in a particular case
renege
go back on a promise or undertaking
astute
showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn it to one’s own advantage
peruse
read something, typically in a thorough way
decree
an official order issued by a legal authority
recuse
challenge as unqualified to perform legal duties because of a potential conflict of interest or lack of impartiality
reconcile
restore friendly relations between; cause to coexist in harmony
dissonance
a clash resulting from the combination of two dis harmonious or unsuitable elements
oversight
an unintentional failure to notice or do something
abyss
a profound difference between people; a deep bottomless chasm
pockmark
a pitted scar or mark on the skin left by a pustule or pimple
batter
censure, criticize, or defeat severely
cower
crouch down in fear
overt
done or shown openly
corpulent
fat
apparatus
the technical equipment or machinery needed for a particular activity or purpose
imagery
visually descriptive or figurative language, esp. in literally work
temperate
showing self-restraint
forthright
direct and outspoken
nicety
a fine detail or distinction, especially one regarded as intricate and fussy; a minor aspect of polite social behavior
inanity
a nonsensical remark or action
contention
heated disagreement; an assertion
affectedly
in a way that is artificial, pretentious, and designed to impress
veracious
speaking or representing the truth
dutybound
obligated
pester
annoy someone with frequent requests or interruptions
perennial
lasting for a long time
derision
ridicule; mockery
practicable
able to be put into practice successfully
contemptuous
showing contempt
buoyant
cheerful and optimistic
psyche
the human soul, mind, or spirit
glaring
staring fiercely
ethereal
extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world
affiliate
officially attach or connect a subsidiary group or organization to an organization
leary
suspicious, wary
pernicious
having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual way
laud
praise highly
maniacal
exhibiting extremely wild or violent behavior
inimical
tending to obstruct or harm
plenary
absolute; a meeting attended by all participants at a conference or assembly
instinctively
without conscious thought
immunize
make immune to infection
sully
damage the integrity of
pontificate
express one’s opinions in a way considered annoyingly pompous and dogmatic
aver
assert to be the case
aroma
a distinctive, typically pleasant smell
indicia
signs, indications, or distinguishing marks
telling
significant
tiff
a petty quarrel, especially one between friends or lovers
quiver
tremble or shake with a slight rapid motion
infuse
fill, pervade
distill
extract the essential meaning of
postulate
suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief
vitriol
cruel criticism
usury
the illegal practice of lending money at unreasonably high rates of interest
endemic
regularly found among particular people or in a certain area
objective
not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts
admirable
deserving respect and approval
inquisitive
curious
unyielding
(of a person) unlikely to be swayed; (of a structure) not giving way to pressure
weighty
of great seriousness and importance
supersede
take the place of; supplant
aberration
a departure from what is normal, typically one that is unwelcome
tamper
interfere with in order to cause damage or make unauthorized alterations
imbibe
drink alcohol; absorb ideas or knowledge
stricture
a restriction on a person or activity
hound
harass, persecute, or pursue relentlessly
spite
a desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone
induce
give rise to
counterargument
an argument put forward to oppose an idea or theory in another argument
conceit
excessive pride in oneself
pillage
rob a place using violence, especially in wartime
antics
foolish, outrageous, or amusing behavior
goad
provoke or annoy someone so as to stimulate some action or reaction
gumption
shrewd or spirited initiative and resourcefulness
rarity
the quality of being rare
gambit
a device, action, or opening remark, typically one entailing a degree of risk, that is calculated to gain an advantage
countervail
offset the effect of something by countering it with something of equal force
trailblazer
a pioneer; an innovator
delinquent
showing a tendency to commit crime, particularly minor crime
delineate
describe or portray something precisely
consequential
following as a result or effect; important, significant
pejorative
expressing disapproval
ever-present
always present
deride
ridicule
vitality
the state of being strong and active
conducive
making a certain situation or outcome likely
deplete
use up the supply or resources of
larceny
theft of personal property
havoc
widespread destruction
encroach
intrude on
fury
wild or violent anger
constituent
a component part of something
heartfelt
sincere
meek
quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive
conservatory
a college for the study of classical music or other arts
temperance
abstinence from alcoholic drink
calamity
an event causing great and often sudden damage or distress
unearth
discover by investigating
exasperated
frustrated
luminary
a person who influences others, especially one prominent in a particular sphere
prim
stiffly formal and respectable; showing disapproval of anything regarded as improper
charitable
relating to the assistance of those in need; apt to judge others leniently or favorably
arguably
it may be argued
exhibitionist
a person who behaves in an extravagant way
ingenuity
the quality of being original, clever, inventive
miser
a person who hoards wealth and spends as little money as possible
exonerate
absolve someone from blame
apprehend
arrest someone for a crime; understand or perceive
disparaging
expressing the opinion that something is of little worth
denigrate
criticize unfairly; disparage
bemoan
express discontent over something
iconoclasm
attacking cherished beliefs and institutions or established values
stampede
rush wildly in a sudden mass panic
smear
damage the reputation of someone by making false accusations
fixity
the state of being permanent
craven
contemptibly lacking in courage; cowardly
visionary
thinking about the future with imagination
clamorous
making a loud and confused noise; characterized by vehement protests or demands
incredulously
in a manner indicating disbelief
jarring
causing a physical shock
unflinching
not showing fear or hesitation in the face of danger or difficulty
piety
the quality of being religious or reverent
jaundice
influenced by envy, distaste, or hostility
entail
involve something as a necessary or inevitable part or consequence
polarizing
to cause people to separate into opposing groups
overshadow
appear much more prominent or important than
remit
send money in payment or as a gift
excavate
make a hole or channel by digging
backpedal
reverse one’s previous action or opinion
untoward
unexpected and inappropriate
inconstant
frequently changing
undercurrent
a hidden opinion, feeling, or tendency contrary to the one publicly shown
devoid
entirely lacking
revive
restore to life or consciousness
ledger
a book or other collection of financial accounts of a particular type
whereby
by which
ramification
a consequence of an action, especially one that’s unwelcome
proffer
an offer or proposal
debunk
expose the falseness of
gung-ho
unthinkingly enthusiastic and eager, especially about taking part in fighting or warfare
oasis
a fertile spot in a desert, where water is found
reverent
showing deep and solemn respect
ingrained
firmly fixed or established; difficult to change
supple
bending and moving easily and gracefully; flexible
muddled
in a state of confusion or disorder
lowly
low in status or importance; humble
ploy
a cunning plan designed to turn a situation to one’s own advantage
keen
highly developed
anodyne
not likely to provoke dissent or offense; inoffensive
ricochet
rebound one or more times off a surface
heedful
aware of
impotent
lacking in power or influence
à la
in the style or manner of
measly
contemptibly small or few
resonant
deep, clear, and continuing to sound or ring
reservoir
a large natural or artificial lake used as a source of water supply
incivility
rude or unsociable speech or behavior
haggard
looking exhausted and unwell, especially from fatigue, worry, or suffering
blissful
full of joy
glistening
shining with a sparkling light
unspool
unwind
prurient
having an excessive interest in sexual matters
exemplary
serving as a desirable model; (of a punishment) serving as a warning or deterrent
despotism
the exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way
unravel
investigate and solve
cathartic
providing psychological relief through the open expression of strong emotions
exactitude
the quality of being exact
irreverent
showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously
wile
devious stratagems employed to persuade someone to do something
historicity
historical authenticity
stealth
cautious action or movement
coddle
treat with excessive care
hard-pressed
burdened with urgent business
entrap
trick or deceive someone, especially by inducing them to commit a crime to secure their prosecution
regale
amuse someone with talk
legerity
physical or mental quickness
poignant
evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret
impending
about to happen; forthcoming
candor
the quality of being open and honest in expression
ransack
go hurriedly through a place stealing things and causing damage
prevaricate
speak/act evasively
countervailing
offsetting an effect by countering it with something of equal force
elan
energy, style, enthusiasm
disjointed
lacking a coherent sequence
dagger
a short knife with a pointed and edged blade, used as a weapon
peril
serious and immediate danger
iterate
perform or utter repeatedly
presume
suppose that something is the case
virtuoso
a person highly skilled in music or another artistic pursuit
uncouple
to release the link between
glean
extract information from various sources
outweigh
be more significant than
uninterested
not interested
indefinite
lasting for an unknown or unstated length of time
travesty
a distorted representation of something
elucidate
make something clear; explain
belie
fail to fulfill or justify (a claim or expectation)
riveting
completely engrossing; compelling
dilettante
a person who cultivates an area of interest, such as the arts, without real commitment or knowledge
imperceptible
impossible to perceive
prose
talk tediously; written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure
avail
help or benefit
unvarnished
plain and straightforward
enrich
improve or enhance the quality or value of
novice
a person inexperienced in a field or situation
accolade
an award or privilege granted as a special honor or as an acknowledgment of merit
apt
appropriate in the circumstances; having a tendency to do something
virtuous
having or showing high moral standards
stilted
stiff and self-conscious; unnatural
ill-conceived
poorly planned
spasmodic
occurring in brief, irregular bursts
bespoke
made for a particular customer
beaming
radiant, bright
allegiance
loyalty of a subordinate to a superior or of an individual to a group or cause
incongruous
not in harmony with other aspects of something
postmortem
occurring or performed after death
awed
filled with awe or wonder
godspeed
an expression of good wishes to a person starting a journey
agile
able to move quickly and easily
hearty
(of food) wholesome and substantial; loudly vigorous and cheerful
bastardize
change something in such a way as to lower its quality, typically by adding new elements
emboss
carve, mold, or stamp a design on
castigate
reprimand someone severely
ingratiate
bring oneself into favor with someone by flattering them
requiem
an act of remembrance
rubric
a statement of purpose or function
copacetic
in excellent order
reticent
not revealing one’s thoughts or feelings readily
streamline
make more efficient by employing faster or simpler working methods
prolific
plentiful
importune
harass someone persistently for or to do something
philologist
someone who studies the history of languages
zest
great enthusiasm and energy
maladaptive
not providing adequate adjustment to the environment or situation
effectively
actually but not officially or explicitly
extrinsic
coming or operating from outside
prime
prepare someone for a situation so they know what to do
unforgivable
so bad as to be unable to be forgiven or excused
intact
not damaged or impaired in any way
routinize
make something into a matter of routine
hibernal
characteristic of or occurring in winter
depravity
moral corruption, wickedness
farcical
relating to farce (entertaining the audience through situations that are highly exaggerated, extravagant, and thus improbable)
herculean
requiring great strength or effort
sprawling
spreading out over a large area in an untidy or irregular way
indecent
obscene
garden-variety
of the ordinary type
escapism
the tendency to seek distraction from unpleasant realities, esp. by seeking entertainment or engaging in fantasy
imputable
capable of being credited to
innocuous
not harmful or offensive
equate
consider one thing to be equivalent to another
colloquy
a conversation
vigor
physical strength and good health
defer
put off to a later time; allow someone to decide something
rigmarole
bothersome nonsense
blistering
expressed with great vehemence; extremely fast, forceful, or impressive
affix
stick, attach, or fasten something to something else
guarantor
a person, organization, or thing that guarantees something
dichotomy
a division or contrast between two things that are entirely different
haphazard
lacking any obvious principle of organization
contrarian
opposing popular opinion
extrajudicial
not legally authorized; (of a settlement, statement, or confession) not made in court
tangent
a completely different line of thought or action
laden
heavily loaded or weighed down
retreat
an act of moving back or withdrawing
bile
anger; irritability
subtlety
the quality of being subtle
fervent
displaying a passionate intensity
surface
rise to the surface
obsequious
attentive to an excessive degree
erode
gradually wear away; gradually destroy
pragmatic
dealing with things realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations
punctuate
occur at intervals throughout (a continuing event or a place)
quibble
a slight objection or criticism about a trivial matter
blasphemy
great disrespect to God or something holy
diabolic
characteristic of the devil
euphemism
a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant
widower
a man who has lost his spouse by death and has not remarried
customarily
in a way that follows customs or usual practices
stammer
stutter
evaluative
involving judging the quality, importance, amount, or value of something
eviscerate
deprive something of its essential content
heinous
utterly wicked
gut-wrenching
extremely unpleasant or upsetting
withdrawn
not wanting to communicate with other people
divert
to turn from one course to another
shrivel
wrinkle, especially due to loss of moisture
nomological
denoting certain principles, such as laws of nature, that are neither logically necessary nor theoretically explicable, but are simply taken as true
lambast
criticize harshly
snafu
a confused or chaotic state
portentous
done in an overly solemn manner so as to impress
preparedness
a state of readiness
ventilation
public discussion or examination of an opinion, issue, or complaint
infirm
not physically or mentally strong, especially through age or illness
gravitas
dignity, seriousness, or solemnity of manner
revere
feel deep respect or admiration for
proximate
closest in relationship (especially of the cause of something)
inferential
involving conclusions reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning
arid
having little or no rain, too dry to support vegetation; lacking in interest, excitement, or meaning
riotous
marked by public disorder
embolism
obstruction of an artery
habitué
a resident of or frequent visitor to a particular place
shut-eye
sleep
duplicity
deceitfulness
sublimate
divert or modify an instinctual impulse into a culturally higher or socially more acceptable activity
destabilizing
causing unrest
grandiose
impressive and imposing in appearance or style, esp. pretentiously so
petulance
the quality of being childishly sulky or bad-tempered
disprove
prove that something is false
even-keeled
characterized by stability and consistency
perverse
corrupt, improper
specter
something widely feared as a possible unpleasant or dangerous occurrence
parochial
relating to a church parish; having a narrow outlook
pitfall
a hidden danger or difficulty
accord
grant someone power, status, or recognition
posh
elegant
grift
engage in small-scale swindling
defray
provide money to pay an expense
screed
a long speech or piece of writing, typically one regarded as tedious
materially
substantially; considerably
scrawl
write something in a hurried, careless way
immiseration
economic impoverishment
seamless
smooth and continuous
overture
an introduction to something more substantial
emeritus
having retired but allowed to retain their title as an honor
divisive
tending to cause disagreement or hostility between people
chide
scold
interpose
place between one thing and another
enumeration
the action of mentioning a number of things one by one
operatic
overly dramatic
parrot
repeat mechanically
squalor
the state of being extremely dirty or unpleasant
ad nauseum
referring to something that has been done or repeated so often that it has become annoying or tiresome
disenfranchise
deprive someone of a right or privilege
mollify
appease the anger or anxiety of someone
callous
having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others
heretic
someone whose beliefs or actions are considered wrong by most people because they disagree with beliefs that are generally accepted
venerable
accorded a great deal of respect, especially because of age, wisdom, or character
reproachful
expressing disapproval or disappointment
trove
a store of valuable things
salvage
to save something that is in danger
implacable
not able to be appeased
lifeline
a thing on which someone or something depends or which provides a means of escape from a difficult situation
overshadow
appear much more prominent or important than
pseudonymous
written under a false name
triumph
a great victory or achievement
abridge
curtail a right or privilege
philanthropist
a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by donating to good causes
nullify
make legally null and void; invalidate
cryptic
having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure
inane
silly, stupid
neologism
a new word, usage, or expression
jurist
an expert in or writer on law
uncompromising
showing an unwillingness to make concessions to others, especially by changing one’s ways or opinions
en masse
all together
pariah
an outcast
shtick
a gimmick, comic routine, style of performance, etc. associated with a particular person
asinine
extremely foolish
pungent
having a sharply strong taste or smell
flail
wave or swing wildly
eminently
very
proxy
a figure that can be used to represent the value of something
insidious
proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects
furlough
a temporary leave of employees due to special needs of a company
pedant
a person who is excessively concerned with minor details and rules or with displaying academic learning
tender (adjective)
showing gentleness and concern
nexus
connection
dormant
temporarily inactive
abdicate
fail to fulfill or undertake; renounce one’s throne
purport
appear to be or do something, especially false
miniscule
tiny
banal
so lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring
disband
(of an organized group) break up and stop functioning
dispossess
deprive someone of land, property, or other possessions
chill
to horrify someone
grimace
an ugly, twisted expression on someone’s face, typically expressing disgust or pain
propensity
an inclination or natural tendency to behave in a particular way
respectable
regarded by society to be good, proper, or correct
vacuous
having or showing a lack of thought or intelligence; mindless
muzzle
prevent a person from expressing their opinions freely
agentic
expressing agency; proactive
besiege
crowd around oppressively; be inundated by large numbers of requests or complaints
decry
publicly criticize
obstinate
stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so
hasty
done with excessive urgency
incinerate
destroy by burning
levity
humor, especially the treatment of a serious matter with humor or in a manner lacking due respect
disciple
a follower or student of a teacher, leader, or philosopher
misandry
dislike of men
edict
an official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority
lithe
thin, supple, and graceful
disillusionment
a feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be
disingenuous
not candid or sincere
apprehension
fear that something bad will happen
connote
imply or suggest an idea or feeling in addition to the primary meaning
unprompted
said, done, or acting without being encouraged
stifle
suffocate; restrain a reaction or stop oneself from acting on an emotion
lenity
kindness; gentleness
surreptitious
kept secret, especially because it would not be approved of
advertent
giving attention
adage
a short statement expressing a general truth
primacy
the fact of being primary or more important
virulent
bitterly hostile
purge
rid (someone or something) of an unwanted quality, condition, or feeling
liminal
occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a threshold
debilitating
making someone very weak
sway
to persuade
invective
insulting, abusive
unconditional
not subject to any conditions
mimic
imitate
salacious
having or conveying undue or inappropriate interest in sexual matters
monogamous
involving marriage to one person at a time
operative
functioning or having effect
stewing
being in a state of worry
harness
control and make use of natural resources
impecunious
having little or no money
foreseeable
able to be predicted
contour
an outline, especially one representing the shape of something
meritless
worthless
wretched
in a very unhappy or unfortunate state
unorthodox
not conforming to rules, traditions, or modes of conduct
propriety
the quality of conforming to conventionally accepted standards of behavior
peripheral
relating to or situated on the edge or periphery of something
deference
humble submission and respect
tantamount
equivalent in seriousness to
dox
search for and publish private or identifying information about an individual on the Internet, typically with malicious intent
jettison
get rid of something that is not useful
dawdle
waste time; be slow
conscription
compulsory enlistment for state service, typically into the armed forces
interstice
an intervening space, especially a very small one
discredit
harm the good reputation of
malign
speak about someone in a spitefully critical manner
fledgling
a person or organization that is immature, inexperienced, or underdeveloped
ludic
showing spontaneous and undirected playfulness
purview
the scope of the influence or concerns of something
proselytize
attempt to convert someone from one religion, belief, or opinion to another
organic
relating to living matter
unencumbered
not having any burden or impediment
tenacity
the quality of being very determined
latent
(of a quality or state) existing but not yet developed
flagrant
obviously offensive
adversary
one’s opponent in a conflict
duel
a contest with deadly weapons arranged between two people to settle a point of honor
rigidity
inability to be changed or adapted
futile
pointless
bane
a cause of great distress or annoyance
harrowing
acutely distressing
illusory
based on illusion; not real
opportunist
a person who exploits circumstances to gain immediate advantage rather than being guided by consistent principles or plans
devolve
transfer to a lower power
epitomize
be a perfect example of
peculiar
unusual
rancid
smelling or tasting unpleasant as a result of being old and stale
sensible
chosen in accordance with wisdom or prudence
synonymous
closely associated with
thrust
push someone or something suddenly or violently in a specified direction
wave
a sudden occurrence of or increase in a specified phenomenon, feeling, or emotion
paucity
scarcity
parse
analyze a sentence into its parts
accentuate
make more noticeable or prominent
displace
take over the place, position, or role of
burnish
polish something by rubbing
fluke
an unlikely chance or occurrence
chastening
having a restraining or humbling effect
oust
drive out or expel someone from a position or place
desolate
deserted of people and in a state of dismal emptiness
strife
conflict
omniscient
knowing everything
propaganda
information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view
deadlock
a situation, typically involving opposing parties, in which no progress can be made
eke
manage to make a living with difficulty
impermissible
too bad to be allowed
engulfed
sweep over something so as to cover it completely
antagonize
cause someone to become hostile
meticulous
showing great attention to detail
discord
disagreement between people
edification
the instruction of a person morally or intellectually
inflame
provoke or intensify (strong feelings, especially anger) in someone
mischievous
causing trouble in a playful way
ably
competently
animus
hostility
unfounded
having no foundation or basis in fact
dissonant
lacking harmony
pedagogy
the method and practice of teaching
globe-trot
travel widely
invigorating
making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy
humble
lower in dignity or importance
anoint
smear or rub with oil, typically as part of a religious ceremony
fraught
filled with; causing stress
tussle
a vigorous struggle, typically to achieve something
impart
make information known; bestow (a quality)
rival
seem to be equal or comparable to
muster
collect or assemble
portent
a sign that something, especially something momentous, is likely to happen
assaultive
tending or likely to commit assault
overreach
reach too far
coy
making a pretense of shyness or modesty that is intended to be alluring
perma
permanent or permanently
predilection
a preference or special liking for something; a bias in favor of something
commemorate
recall and show respect for; celebrate by doing or building something
snarl
make an aggressive growl with bared teeth
wholehearted
characterized by complete sincerity and commitment
denote
indicate; stand as a name or symbol for
awry
away from the appropriate, planned, or expected course
posture
behave in a way that is intended to impress or mislead
ascend
go up or climb
ambush
a surprise attack by people lying in wait in a concealed position
bumbling
incompetent, acting in a confused way
abreast
side by side and facing the same way
legion
a vast number of people or things
splurge
an act of spending money freely or extravagantly
cloistered
sheltered
impassioned
showing great emotion
underwhelming
failing to impress
sterile
not able to produce children; totally clean
catapult
launch something in a specific direction
culpable
deserving blame
deleterious
causing harm or damage
amass
accumulate over a period of time
manifest
obvious to the eye or mind; display a quality or feeling by one’s acts or appearance
putative
generally considered to be
earth-shattering
extremely important, interesting, or surprising
cumbersome
large or heavy and therefore difficult to carry or use; unwieldy; inefficient
tinge
color slightly
deplorable
deserving strong condemnation
specious
superficially plausible, but actually wrong
extol
praise enthusiastically
atrophy
gradually decline in effectiveness or vigor due to underuse or neglect
despondent
in low spirits from loss of hope or courage
epitome
a person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type
sullen
gloomy
vapid
offering nothing stimulating or challenging
excoriate
criticize severely
malfeasance
wrongdoing, especially by a public official
lax
not sufficiently strict, severe, or careful
burly
(of a person) large and strong
rheum
a watery fluid that collects in or drips from the nose or eyes
presage
be a sign or warning that something bad will happen
swindle
use deception to deprive someone of money or possessions
ineffable
too great or extreme to be described in words
stifling
very hot and causing difficulties in breathing; making one feel constrained
perpetual
never ending or changing
diatribe
a forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something
resilient
able to recover quickly from difficult conditions
preliminary
denoting an action preceding or done in preparation for something more important
microcosm
a community, place, or situation regarded as encapsulating in miniature the characteristic qualities or features of something much larger (e.g., Berlin is a microcosm of Germany)
sanctity
the quality of being holy, sacred, or saintly
solemn
formal and dignified; serious; characterized by deep sincerity
milk-toast
lacking in boldness or vigor; spineless
casanova
a smooth-talking charmer
recoup
regain
flaccid
not firm or stiff
étagère
a piece of furniture with a number of open shelves for displaying ornaments
wholly
entirely
propound
put forward an idea or theory for consideration by others
savant
a learned person, especially a distinguished scientist
effusive
expressing feelings of gratitude, pleasure, or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner
frazzle
cause to feel completely exhausted
stature
a person’s natural height
mire
involve someone or something in a difficult situation
practical
concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than with theory and ideas
fatuous
silly and pointless
lauded
highly praised
masterful
performed very skillfully
offset
a consideration or amount that diminishes or balances the effect of a contrary one; counteract something by having an opposing force or effect
balmy
pleasantly warm
grapple
engage in a close fight without weapons; try to deal with a problem
carcass
the dead body of an animal
missionary
a person sent on a religious mission, especially one sent to promote Christianity in a foreign country
giddy
lighthearted
revel
enjoy oneself in a lively and noisy way, especially with drinking and dancing
misjudge
form a wrong opinion or conclusion about
gait
a person’s manner of walking
indicative
serving as an indication
sever
divide by cutting or slicing, especially suddenly and forcibly
pervade
(of an influence, feeling, or quality) be present throughout
resolute
admirably purposeful; determined
neurotic
behaving in an anxious way
elicit
evoke, draw out
compound
intensify the negative aspects of
dishonorable
bringing shame or disgrace on someone or something
newfound
recently discovered or established
confiscate
seize someone’s property with authority
apoplectic
overcome with anger
victor
winner
petrify
frighten
posit
assume as a fact; put forward as a basis or argument
lackluster
lacking in vitality, force, or conviction; uninspiring
pecuniary
involving money
demotivate
make someone less eager to work or study
scurry
move hurriedly
sequestration
the action of taking legal possession of assets until a debt has been paid or other claims have been met
miff
annoy
crystallize
make or become definite or clear
patently
clearly, without doubt
manifestly
plainly or obviously
chic
elegantly fashionable
colorable
apparently correct or justified
usurp
take illegally or by force
swimmingly
smoothly and satisfactorily
negate
cause to be invalid
tenable
able to be maintained or defended against attack or objection
nefarious
wicked or criminal
squander
waste in a reckless manner
ruminate
think deeply about something
sanctimonious
making a show of being morally superior to other people
foothold
a secure position from which further progress may be made
unfettered
unrestrained or uninhibited
tact
a keen sense of what to do or say to maintain good relations with others or avoid offense; sensitivity in dealing with difficult issues
inscrutable
impossible to understand or interpret
curt
rudely brief
moribund
(of a person) at the point of death; (of a thing) in terminal decline; lacking vitality
staid
sedate, respectable, and unadventurous
correlational
a mutual relationship or connection between two or more things
unwavering
steady, resolute
ancillary
providing necessary support to the primary activities or operation of an organization; a person whose work provides necessary support to the primary activities of an organization
blustery
characterized by strong winds
latitude
scope for freedom of action or thought
unholy
dreadful
flippant
not showing a serious or respectful attitude
upheaval
a violent change to something
scintillating
sparkling or shining brightly
haste
excessive speed or urgency of movement or action
gravitate
move toward or be attracted to a place, person, or thing
antiquated
old-fashioned, outdated
etymology
the study of the origin of words and the way in which their meaning has changed throughout history
dispel
make (a doubt, feeling, or belief) disappear
boorish
rough, bad-mannered, coarse
insurrection
a violent uprising against an authority or government
smite
be strongly attracted to someone or something
exploit
to make productive use of
avarice
extreme greed for wealth
platitude
a remark, especially one with moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful
well-crafted
skillfully constructed
thwart
prevent someone from accomplishing something
stench
a strong and unpleasant smell
irksome
irritating
complicit
involved with others in an illegal activity or wrongdoing
mobilize
prepare and organize for active service
propagate
spread and promote widely
convivial
friendly, lively, enjoyable
rendition
a performance or interpretation; the practice of sending a foreign criminal or terrorist suspect covertly to be interrogated in a country with less rigorous regulations for the humane treatment of prisoners
unruffled
not agitated or disturbed; calm
embody
be an expression of
inauthentic
not in fact what it is said to be
austere
severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance
sly
having a cunning, deceitful nature
artfully
in a way that is clever or skillful and cunning
acronym
an abbreviation formed from the initial letters of other words and pronounced as a word (e.g., NASA)
distal
situated away from the center of the body
pantomime
the art of conveying a story by bodily movements only
wrench
a feeling of distress caused by one’s own or another’s departure
percussive
relating to percussion
abysmal
appalling
quarrel
a heated argument, typically about a trivial issue and between people who are usually on good terms
rest assured
something definitely is the case, so no need to worry about it
inchoate
just begun and so not fully formed or developed
uninhibited
expressing one’s feelings or thoughts without restraint
tight-lipped
with the lips firmly closed, especially as a sign of suppressed emotion or determined reticence
intricacy
the quality of being intricate
exegesis
critical explanation or interpretation of a text
nomenclature
the choosing of names for things, especially in a science or other discipline
meddling
intrusive or unwarranted interference
sinister
giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen
jest
joke
heap
a large amount or number of
alliance
a union formed for mutual benefit
sandbag
to deceive
scintilla
a tiny trace of a quality or feeling
revamp
give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to
ouster
dismissal from a position
affront
an action or remark that causes outrage
prosaic
commonplace; unromantic
recoil
suddenly flinch back in fear, horror, or disgust
probative
having the function of proving something
extricate
free someone or something from a constraint or difficulty
branded
having a brand name
nascent
having recently come into existence
cunning
having skill in achieving one’s ends by deceit or evasion
blunder
a stupid or careless mistake
cogitate
think deeply about something
enjoin
instruct or urge someone to do something
metamorphosis
a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one
hokey
mawkishly sentimental
blackball
reject, typically by means of a secret ballot
precipitous
done suddenly and without careful consideration
prowl
move around restlessly or stealthily, especially in search of prey
convulse
suffer violent involuntary contraction of the muscles
stimulating
encouraging or arousing interest
sordid
dirty; arousing moral distaste
undercut
offer goods or services at a lower price than a competitor
paradigm
a typical example of something
discontinue
cease doing or providing something
disgrace
loss of reputation or respect as the result of a dishonorable action
inartful
awkwardly expressed but not necessarily untrue
insipid
lacking flavor, vigor, interest
cinch
an extremely easy task
broadside
a strongly worded critical attack
rapacious
aggressively greedy
momentous
of great importance or significance, especially in its bearing on the future
gargantuan
enormous
antidote
a medicine taken to counteract a particular poison
raddled
showing signs of age or fatigue
exhaustive
considering all aspects; comprehensive
butch
having an appearance or other qualities of a type traditionally seen as masculine
engrossing
absorbing all one’s attention or interest
spectacle
a visually striking performance or display
proclivity
an inclination toward a particular thing
displace
take over the place, position, or role of
ghastly
causing great horror
segue
move without interruption from one topic, song, etc. to another
parlance
a particular way of speaking, especially a way common to those with a particular job or interest
preclusive
preventing something from happening
sleuth
carry out a careful investigation; a detective
abet
encourage someone to do something wrong
advent
the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event
ill-suited
unsuitable
clout
a heavy blow with the hand or hard object; influence, especially in politics or business
orthodox
conforming to what is generally accepted as right or true
ward
a separate room in a hospital, typically one allocated to a particular type of patient
sappy
excessively sentimental
disarry
a state of disorganization
guffaw
a loud and boisterous laugh
insinuate
suggest or hint in an indirect and unpleasant way
lofty
of imposing height
embedded
fixed firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass
swanky
very expensive and fashionable
dashing
attractive, adventurous, and full of confidence
upshot
the eventual outcome or conclusion of a discussion, action, or series of events
truce
an agreement between opponents to stop fighting or arguing for a certain amount of time
baffle
totally bewilder or perplex
jostle
bump against someone roughly, typically in a crowd; compete forcefully for
moralize
comment on issues of right and wrong, typically with an unfounded air of superiority; reform the character of
unruly
disorderly and disruptive
rescind
revoke, cancel, repeal
residual
remaining after the greater part has gone
myriad
a countless or extremely large number
frivolous
not having any serious purpose or value
dynamic
characterized by constant change, activity, or progress
dire
extremely serious or urgent
talisman
a person regarded as representing and inspiring a particular group
consonant
in agreement or harmony with
subsume
include or absorb something in something else
bribe
persuade someone to act in one’s favor, typically illegally or dishonestly
captivating
capable of attracting and holding interest
malady
a disease or ailment
traverse
travel across or through
affectless
characterized by a lack of emotion
regrettably
unfortunately
unconventional
not conforming to what is generally done or believed
solicitous
showing interest or concern
solidify
make stronger; reinforce
self-contained
quiet and independent
douse
drench
instill
gradually but firmly establish (an idea or attitude, especially a desirable one) in a person’s mind
lest
to avoid the risk of
embolden
give someone the confidence to do something or behave in a certain way
liaison
communication or cooperation that facilitates a close working relationship between people or organizations
enthrall
capture the fascinated attention of
principled
acting in accordance with morality; showing recognition of right and wrong
daring
adventurous or audaciously bold
simmering
be in a state of suppressed anger or excitement
arraign
call or bring someone before a court to answer a criminal charge
rubber stamp
approve automatically without proper consideration
adorn
make more beautiful or attractive
solitary
done or existing alone
vista
a pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening; a mental view over a stretch of time or series of events
sinewy
lean and muscular
unceremoniously
roughly or abruptly
venture
a risky journey or undertaking
unsavory
disagreeable and unpleasant because morally disreputable
elude
evade or escape from (a danger, enemy, or pursuer), typically in a skillful way
sly
having a cunning or deceitful nature
adventitious
happening by chance rather than design
spawn
to produce or deposit
cavalier
showing a lack of proper concern
bigotry
unreasonable attachment to an opinion, belief, or faction; in particular, prejudice against a person or people on the basis of their membership of a particular group
wayfarer
a person who travels on foot
sheepish
showing embarrassment from shame or a lack of self-confidence
malignant
malevolent (showing a wish to do evil to others)
disapproving
expressing an unfavorable opinion
cistern
a tank for storing water
sheer
nothing other than; unmitigated (used for emphasis)
détente
the relaxation of strained relations
salvific
having the power to save or redeem
tottering
feeble; unsteady
knack
an acquired or natural skill at performing a task
sedative
promoting calm or inducing sleep
snarky
critical or mocking in an indirect or sarcastic way
adrift
floating without being steered; feel alone with no clear idea of what to do
wont
one’s customary behavior in a particular situation
attribute
regard something as being caused by
amiss
not quite right; inappropriate or out of place
proviso
a condition attached to an agreement
consensus
a general agreement
padawan
a youthful/untrained person
forthcoming
willing to give information
tenuous
very weak or slight
overbearing
tending to overwhelm
impoverished
made poor; deprived of strength or vitality
ajar
(of a door) slightly open
burrow
a hole dug by a small animal
undertaking
a formal pledge to do something; a task that is taken on
audacious
showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks
imprimatur
a person’s acceptance that something is of a good standard
adverse
unfavorable
withering
intended to make someone feel mortified or humiliated
valiant
showing courage or determination
grave
serious
straightjacket
anything that hinders
wanton
deliberate and unprovoked
expound
present an idea or theory in detail
accompaniment
something that is supplementary to or complements something else, typically food
indebted
owing gratitude for a service or favor
outlandish
bizarre
omnipresent
widely encountered
court
be involved with romantically, typically with the intention of marrying
irreparable
impossible to repair
enormity
the seriousness of something
wager
bet; used to express certainty
rattled
nervous, worried
vexing
causing annoyance or frustration
cauterize
burn the skin or flesh of a wound with a heated instrument, typically to stop bleeding or prevent the wound from becoming infected
falsity
the fact of being untrue
irresolute
uncertain; showing hesitancy
graceful
having grace or elegance
nebulous
unclear, vague, or ill-defined
weather (verb)
wear away or change the appearance or texture of something by long exposure to air; come safely through (a storm)
violative
violating
heed
pay attention to
conclusory
relating to a conclusion for which no supporting evidence is offered
falter
start to lose strength or momentum
echelon
a level or rank in an organization, profession, society
surly
bad-tempered and unfriendly
vitriolic
filled with bitter criticism or malice
kerfuffle
a commotion or fuss, especially one caused by conflicting views
amiable
having a pleasant manner
jeremiad
a list of woes
codify
arrange into a systematic code
attribution
the action of regarding something as being caused by a person or thing
mutilate
inflict a violent injury on
prescient
having knowledge of events before they take place
exemplar
a person or thing serving as a typical example
fret
be visibly worried or anxious
anarchy
absence of government
standard-bearer
a leading figure in a movement
rouse
cause to feel angry or excited; awaken
calamitous
catastrophic or disastrous
expressly
explicitly; clearly
inexplicably
in a way that cannot be explained
blotter
a temporary recording book, especially a police charge sheet
unbecoming
not flattering, not appropriate
idolatry
extreme admiration for something or someone
barren
too poor to produce vegetation; bleak and lifeless
deflect
cause something to change direction by interposing something; turn aside from a straight course
pseudonym
a fictitious name
trivial
of little importance
afield
at a distance
plunder
steal goods from (a place or person), typically using force and in a time of war or civil disorder
spout
express one’s views in a lengthy, declamatory, and unreflecting way
legitimize
make legitimate
divest
deprive someone of power, rights, or possessions
sacrosanct
regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with
eschew
deliberately avoid using; abstain from
stark
very obvious
utmost
greatest
obscure
uncertain
garner
gather or collect something, especially information or approval
high-minded
having strong moral principles
hedonistic
engaged in the pursuit of pleasure
capitulate
cease to resist an opponent or an unwelcome demand; surrender
unnerving
causing one to lose courage or confidence
musculature
refers to all the muscles in a body, or to a system of muscles you use to perform a particular type of action
imprint
impress or stamp a mark or outline on a surface or body
crapshoot
a risky or uncertain matter
façade
the face of a building, especially the principal front that looks onto a street; an outward appearance that is maintained to conceal a less pleasant reality
prerogative
a right or privilege exclusive to a particular individual or class
preemptive
intended to forestall something
infamy
the state of being well known for something bad
undue
unwarranted or inappropriate because excessive or disproportionate
undergird
provide support for
upholster
provide furniture with a soft, padded covering
utterly
absolutely
insurgent
a rebel or revolutionary
placate
make someone less angry or hostile
passel
a large group of people or things of indeterminate number
penitent
showing regret for having done wrong
excise
a tax levied on certain goods and commodities produced or sold within
distressing
causing anxiety, sorrow, or pain
preferential
involving preference
iteration
the repetition of a process or utterance
vile
extremely unpleasant
conversely
introducing an idea which reverses one that has just been made
tantalizing
tormenting or teasing with the sight or promise of something unobtainable
confound
cause surprise or confusion in someone, esp. by acting against their expectations
unscathed
without suffering any injury, damage, or harm
impudent
not showing due respect for another person
array
an impressive display or range of a particular type of thing
mismatch
failure to match
interim
the intervening time
unmoored
insecure, confused, or lacking contact with reality
speculate
form a theory about a subject without firm evidence
percolate
filter gradually through a porous surface or substance
conniption
a fit of rage
endearing
inspiring love or affection
juxtaposition
the fact of two things being placed close together with contrasting effect
fervor
intense and passionate feeling
remission
a diminution of the seriousness or intensity of disease or pain; a temporary recovery
recompense
make amends to someone for loss or harm suffered
elated
extremely happy
palatable
pleasant to taste
torpedo
to destroy, reject
braggadocio
boastful or arrogant behavior
pendency
the state, condition, or period of being pending or awaiting settlement
trite
overused and consequently of little import; lacking originality or freshness
gravamen
the most important part of a complaint
averse
having a strong dislike of or opposition to something
acclimate
become accustomed to a new climate or conditions
uncanny
strange or mysterious, especially in an unsettling way
portmanteau
a word blending the sounds and combining the meaning of two others; ex: brunch (‘breakfast’ and ‘lunch’)
quadriplegic
relating to paralysis of all four limbs
irrevocable
not able to be changed, reversed, or recovered
waffle
fail to make up one’s mind
unforgivable
so bad as to be unable to be forgiven
espouse
adopt or support a cause, belief, or way of life
torpor
a state of mental/physical inactivity
clemency
mercy, lenience
concoct
create or devise a story or plan
invidious
likely to arouse anger in others
deracinate
uproot someone from their natural geographical, social, or cultural environment
equivocate
use ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself
disinterested
unbiased, objective
bout
a short period of intense activity of a specified kind
concession
a thing that is granted, especially in response to demands
unmask
expose the true character of
rote
a mechanical or habitual repetition of something to be learned
cripple
cause severe and disabling damage to
spunky
courageous and determined
beneficent
generous
pesky
annoying
attenuated
having been reduced in force, effect, or value
disarming
having the effect of allaying suspicion or hostility, especially through charm
labored
done with great effort and difficulty
snub
rebuff, ignore, or spurn disdainfully
stalemate
a situation in which further progress seems impossible
secular
denoting attitudes, activities, or other things that have no religious basis
jubilation
a feeling of great happiness and triumph
obscene
offensive to moral principles; repugnant
cesspool
a disgusting or corrupt place
barricade
block or defend with an improvised barrier
strong-arm
to force someone to do something
leaven
a pervasive influence that modifies something or transforms it for the better
smarmy
ingratiating and wheedling in a way that is perceived as insincere or excessive
preeminent
surpassing all others
chattel
an item of property other than real estate
offhand
ungraciously or offensively nonchalant in manner
indispensable
absolutely necessary
spooked
frightened
assent
express approval or agreement
mouthpiece
one that expresses or interprets another’s views
reinstate
restore someone or something to their former position or condition
tutelage
protection of or authority over someone
desensitized
having been made less sensitive
hunch
a feeling or guess based on intuition rather than known facts
wrangling
engagement in a long, complicated dispute or argument
vacate
leave a place that one previously occupied
disadvantaged
in unfavorable circumstances, especially with regard to financial or social opportunities
smug
having excessive pride in oneself
contraband
goods that have been imported or exported illegally
ardent
enthusiastic or passionate
tepid
only slightly warm; showing little enthusiasm
blasé
unimpressed or indifferent to something because one has experienced or seen it so often before
deferential
showing deference; respectful
obtrusive
prominent in an unwelcome way
hue
a color or shade
emanate
issue or spread out from a source
inertia
a tendency to do nothing or to remain unchanged
feat
an achievement that requires great courage, skill, or strength
ogle
stare at in a lecherous manner
fortify
strengthen with defensive works so as to protect it against attack
clouded
make less clear or transparent
dispositional
relating to a natural tendency toward a particular condition or action
behest
a person’s orders
piecemeal
in an unsystematic way
whim
a sudden desire or change of mind
pretense
an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true
platonic
intimate and affectionate but not sexual
adamant
utterly unyielding in attitude or opinion in spite of urgings
morale
the confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a person or group at a particular time
crux
the decisive or most important point at issue
forbidding
unfriendly in appearance
disinclined
unwilling, reluctant
incompetent
not competent
unsurprisingly
in a way that does not cause surprise
internalize
make attitudes or behavior part of one’s nature by learning or unconscious assimilation
pseudointellectual
a person who claims proficiency in scholarly or artistic activities while lacking in-depth knowledge or critical understanding
ignoble
not honorable in character or purpose
pointed
(of a remark or look) expressing criticism in a direct or unambiguous way
relent
abandon or mitigate a harsh intention or cruel treatment
zeal
great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of an objective
power hungry
having a strong desire for power
retronym
a new term created from an existing word in order to distinguish it from the meaning that has emerged through progress or technological development
scree
a mass of small loose stones that form or cover a slope on a mountain
indiscriminately
in a random manner
incredulous
unable to believe something
corrode
destroy or damage slowly
apathy
lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
awestruck
filled with awe
aphorism
a concise, terse, laconic, or memorable expression of a general truth or principle; often handed down by tradition
detract
diminish the worth or value of
foregone
past
arduous
involving strenuous effort
schism
a split between strongly opposed sections or parties, caused by differences in opinions and beliefs
reap
receive a reward or benefit as a consequence of one’s own or other people’s actions
novel
a new and unusual kind
postscript
an additional statement or action that provides further information
ordure
excrement; something regarded as abhorrent
agency
the capacity to act
sprawl
an ungainly or carelessly relaxed position in which one’s arms and legs are spread out
consign
deliver something to a person’s custody, typically for it to be sold
demolition
the action of demolishing something
skittish
playfully frivolous or unpredictable
composed
calm
inure
accustom someone to something, especially something unpleasant
endanger
put someone or something in danger
in vain
without success or a result
perfunctory
carried out with minimum effort or reflection
earshot
the range over which one can hear or be heard
brandish
wave or flourish something, esp. a weapon, as a threat
infallible
incapable of making mistakes or being wrong
incidence
the frequency of a disease, crime, or something else undesirable
waive
refrain from insisting on or using a right or claim
industrious
diligent and hard-working
prod
poke someone
blight
a thing that spoils or damages something
barter
exchange goods or services for other goods or services without using money
safeguard
a measure taken to protect someone or something; to protect from harm
intuition
the ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning
flout
openly disregard
bar
prevent someone from doing something or going somewhere
restful
having a quiet and soothing quality
adversarial
characterized by conflict or opposition
encapsulate
express the essential features of something succinctly
iota
an extremely small amount
incensed
enraged
contemptible
deserving contempt; despicable
degenerative
tending to deteriorate
reinvigorate
give new energy or strength to
culpability
responsibility for a fault or wrong
pugnacious
eager to argue
schematic
symbolic and simplified
abhorrent
inspiring disgust
balk
hesitate to accept something
unmoved
not affected by emotion or excitement
implode
collapse; fail
implausible
failing to convince
formidable
inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable
undeterred
persevering with something despite setbacks
risible
provoking laughter
acculturation
assimilation to a different culture, typically the dominant one
satirist
a writer of satire
mawkish
sentimental in a sickly way
sobriety
the quality of being staid or solemn
insufferable
intolerable; having unbearable arrogance
compromised
impaired or diminished in function
summative
cumulative
ascertain
find something out for certain
hermetic
complete and airtight
zinger
a striking remark
expeditious
done with speed and efficiency
sub rosa
done in secret
brash
self-assertive in a rude, noisy, or overbearing way
restive
unable to keep still or silent and becoming increasingly difficult to control, especially because of impatience, dissatisfaction, or boredom
humanize
make something more humane or civilized
inquire
ask for information from someone
exhort
strongly encourage one to do something
valiant
showing courage
adept
very skilled at something
phenotype
the composite observable characteristics of an organism
slew
slide uncontrollably
hawker
a person who travels around selling goods, typically advertising them by shouting
discord
disagreement
testament
something that serves as evidence of a specified fact, event, or quality
derogate
detract from
gateway
access or entry to a place
dotage
the period of life in which someone is old and weak
entangle
cause to become twisted; involve someone in a complicated circumstance
ire
anger
transcend
go beyond the limits of
murky
not fully explained or understood; dark and gloomy, especially due to thick mist
quibble
raise objections about a trivial matter
cultivate
try to acquire (a quality, sentiment, or skill)
first-rate
excellent
surmise
suppose that something is true without having evidence to confirm it
abscond
leave hurriedly and secretly, typically to avoid detection
affable
friendly, good-natured, and easy to talk to
scandalous
causing general public outrage by a perceived offense against morality or law
loathsome
causing hatred or disgust
embellish
make something more attractive by adding decorative details or features; make a story more interesting by adding extra details, especially ones that are not true
noble
having high moral principles and ideals
backfire
to have a result opposite to what was planned
rectitude
morally correct behavior or thinking
pervasive
spreading widely throughout an area or group of people
ponderous
slow and clumsy because of great weight
gaudy
extravagantly bright or showy, typically so as to be tasteless
dicey
unpredictable and potentially dangerous
exhume
dig out from underground
alight
descend from a train, bus, or other form of transport
recidivism
the tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend
sneer
smile or speak in a contemptuous or mocking manner
stonewall
delay or block by refusing to answer questions or by giving evasive replies
vociferous
vehement or clamorous
spate
a large number of similar things or events happening in quick succession
deprecate
express disapproval of
hospitable
friendly and welcoming to strangers or guests
quip
a witty remark
elevate
raise to a more important or impressive level
inept
having no skill
pragmatist
a person who is guided more by practical considerations than by ideals
hurl
utter abuse vehemently
impasse
a situation in which no progress is possible, especially because of disagreement; a deadlock
assimilate
take in information, ideas, or culture and understand fully
ultracrepidarian
expressing opinions on matters outside the scope of one’s knowledge
exceptional
outstanding
detritus
waste or debris of any kind
dubious
doubting; not to be relied upon; suspect
reminiscent
tending to remind one of something
sodomize
have anal intercourse with
sedition
conduct or speech inciting people to rebel against authority
wrongheaded
misguided; showing bad judgment
outlay
an amount of money spent on something
blip
an unexpected, minor deviation from a general trend
pent-up
closely confined or held back
insolent
showing an arrogant lack of respect
precipitous
done suddenly and without careful consideration; dangerously high or steep
incriminating
making someone appear guilty of a crime
catalyst
a person or thing that precipitates an event
morph
to gradually change
conduit
a channel for conveying water or other fluid
paragon
a model of excellence/perfection
fittingly
in a way that is appropriate under the circumstances
effigy
a sculpture or model of a person
stooge
a person who serves merely to support others, particularly in doing unpleasant work
monotony
lack of variety and interest; tedious repetition and routine; sameness of pitch or tone in a sound or utterance
empirical
based on or verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic
gaggle
a flock of geese; a disorderly or noisy group of people
progeny
offspring
unrelenting
not yielding in strength, severity, or determination
inviolate
free of injury or violation
incontinent
lacking self-restraint; uncontrolled
denounce
publicly declare to be wrong or evil
inter alia
among other things
garnishee
a third party who is served notice by a court to surrender money in settlement of a debt or claim
sophistical
plausible but misleading
aesthetic
concerned with beauty
collateral
additional but subordinate; secondary
insensate
lacking sense or awareness; lacking sympathy
tizzy
a state of nervous excitement or confusion
veracity
accuracy
jubilee
a special anniversary of an event, especially one celebrating twenty-five or fifty years of a reign or activity
hijack
unlawfully seize (an aircraft, ship, or car) in transit and force it to go to a different destination or use it for one’s own purposes
inapposite
out of place
litigious
unreasonably prone to go to law to settle disputes
escapade
an act involving excitement, daring, or adventure
mea culpa
an acknowledgment of one’s fault or error
monumental
great in importance, extent, or size
mindless
acting without concern for consequences; so repetitive as to be performed automatically without thought
opsimath
a person who begins to learn or study only late in life
compartment
divide something into separate parts
dawning
the beginning or first appearance of something
seriatim
taking one subject after another in regular order; point by point
foist
to force someone to accept or deal with something they do not want
afoul
into conflict or difficulty with
alchemy
a seemingly magical process of transformation, creation, or combination
jeer
make rude and mocking remarks, typically in a loud voice
grim
forbidding or uninviting
annex
add as an extra or subordinate part, especially to a document
amalgam
a mixture/blend
panacea
a solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases
feign
pretend to be affected by a feeling, state, or injury
clairvoyant
having an ability to perceive events in the future or beyond normal sensory contact
harebrained
rash; ill-judged
surrogate
a substitute, especially a person deputizing for another in a specific role or office
erudition
having great knowledge
chasm
a profound difference between people, viewpoints, feelings, etc.
dignify
make something seem worthy and impressive
befall
(of something bad) happen to someone
cede
give up power or territory
dyad
something that consists of two elements or parts
unparalleled
having no parallel or equal
revulsion
a sense of disgust and loathing
penchant
a strong liking for something or tendency to do something
fixate
cause someone to acquire an obsessive attachment to someone or something
magnitude
extent of something
twinge
a sudden, sharp localized pain
requisite
made necessary by particular circumstances
alacrity
brisk and cheerful readiness
complacency
a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one’s achievement
undertone
an underlying quality or feeling
dovetail
to fit together closely or neatly
posterity
all future generations of people
extemporaneous
spoken or done without preparation
nuanced
involving subtle distinctions
triage
assign degrees of urgency to
formidable
causing fear, dread, or apprehension
cohort
companion, colleague
quagmire
an awkward or complex situation
actualize
make a reality of
tenement
a large, old building that is divided into a number of individual apartments
demur
to raise doubts, show reluctance
contravene
violate the order of (a law, treaty, or code of conduct)
abject
experienced or present to the maximum degree
boorish
optimistic
imperturbable
unable to be upset or excited; calm
impose
force something unwelcome to be accepted
explication
the process of analyzing and developing an idea in detail
egregious
outstandingly bad
torrent
a sudden, violent, and copious outpouring of words or feelings
flounder
struggle helplessly
wry
expressing dry, especially mocking, humor
relegate
consign or dismiss to an inferior rank or position
squarely
in a direct and uncompromising manner
soporific
tending to induce sleep
irate
characterized by great anger
travail
painful/laborious effort
hooey
nonsense
macabre
disturbing and horrifying because of involvement with or depiction of death and injury
mercurial
subject to unpredictable changes of mood
iridescent
showing luminous colors that seem to change when seen from different angles
tremor
an involuntary quivering movement
remonstrate
make a forcefully reproachful protest
analogously
similarly
ablaze
burning fiercely; filled with anger or another strong emotion
invaluable
valuable beyond estimation; priceless
indisposed
slightly unwell; averse, unwilling
tireless
showing great effort or energy
ruthless
showing no pity or compassion for others
spearhead
lead an attack or movement
egalitarian
relating to or believing in the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities
trumpet
proclaim widely
scuttlebutt
rumor, gossip
ballistic
suddenly excited, upset, or angry
wholesome
promoting moral well-being; suggestive of good health
goings-on
events or behavior, especially of an unusual or suspect nature
shoehorn
force into an inadequate space
saturate
cause something to become thoroughly soaked with liquid so that no more can be absorbed
permissiveness
excessive freedom of behavior
viable
feasible
sensational
very impressive
acuity
sharpness or keenness of thought, vision, or hearing
forcefully
in a strong and assertive manner
ardor
enthusiasm or passion
heedless
showing a reckless lack of care or attention
sumptuous
splendid and expensive-looking
