Unit 8 Flashcards
Complacent
Adj. Satisfied with a situation that should be changed or improved.
Susanna saw that the children were becoming lazy and complacent, so she urged them to become involved in volunteer work.
Syn: smug
Placebo
N. Something which has a positive mental effect, but no physical effect.
Good news on the political front is often a placebo for the stock market, even if it becomes bad news again the next day.
Syn: quick fix
Placid
Adj. Calm; undisturbed
Tara’s placid expression never seemed to register the chaos around her.
Syn: peaceful Ant: agitated
Gratuitous
Adj. Unnecessary or unwanted or unwanted
Movies today are often criticized for gratuitous violence.
Syn: unessential Ant: important
Ingratiate
V. To gain another’s favor by flattery or false friendliness
Annie suspected that the student was trying to ingratiate himself with his teachers.
Ingrate
N. One who is not properly thankful
When Amber threw down her birthday present in disappointment, she seemed a spoiled little ingrate.
Docile
Adj. Easily taught; submissive to instruction
Ruffles who previously been the most docile of the cats, suddenly started hissing and biting.
Syn: obedient Ant: defiant
Indoctrinate
V. To teach a certain point of view to
The cult leader attempted to indoctrinate his new followers in the ways of his teachings.
Syn: instill
Doctrine
N. That which is taught; body of beliefs or ideas
Followers of this political doctrine believe that war is the solution to most political problems.
Syn: creed
Temper
V. To decrease the strength of
Serita tempers her spicy stew with a little milk or yogurt.
Temperance
N. Restraint or moderation, especially in regards to alcohol or food.
Jordan’s temperance at the buffet table spread her indigestion that I got.
Syn: frugality Ant: indulgence
Intemperate
Adj. Lacking moderation; severe or extreme
In terms of climate, the Sahara desert and Antarctica are two of the most intemperate places in the world.
Syn: rigorous
