Vocab Flashcards
Epidemic vs. Pandemic
AN EPIDEMIC is a disease that affects a large number of people within a community, population, or region. A PANDEMIC is an epidemic that’s spread over multiple countries or continents.
What does ‘Ambivalent’ mean?
Having mixed or contradictory feelings about something or someone.
Example: She felt ambivalent about moving to a new city—excited for new opportunities but sad to leave her friends behind.
What is an ‘Enigma’?
A person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand.
Example: The disappearance of the ancient civilization remains an enigma to historians.
“Madeleine was still an enigma to him”
What does ‘Dispels’ mean?
To make a doubt, feeling, or belief disappear.
Example: The scientist’s research dispels the myth that vaccines cause illness.
What is ‘Cathartic’?
Providing psychological relief through the open expression of strong emotions.
Example: Writing in a journal every night was a cathartic experience that helped him process his emotions.
“Crying is a cathartic release”
What is an ‘Exhibitionist’?
A person who behaves in a way intended to attract attention or display their talents.
Example: The comedian was a natural exhibitionist, always performing for anyone who would listen.
“I am something of an exhibitionist”
What does ‘Arguably’ mean?
Used to indicate that a statement is open to disagreement but can be supported with reasoning.
Example: She is arguably the best player on the team, given her impressive record of wins.
What is ‘Sanctity’?
The state or quality of being holy, sacred, or morally valuable.
Example: The sanctity of the temple was preserved by generations of worshippers.
What does ‘Capable’ mean?
Having the ability, fitness, or quality necessary to do or achieve something.
Example: He is highly capable of leading the project, given his years of experience in management.
What does ‘Draconian’ mean?
Excessively harsh and severe (often referring to laws or rules).
Example: The new policy on late homework submissions was seen as draconian by students.
What does ‘Ossify’ mean?
To become rigid or inflexible in habits, attitudes, or beliefs; also, to turn into bone.
Example: Over time, his political views ossified, making it difficult for him to consider new perspectives.
What is ‘Omniscience’?
The state of knowing everything; unlimited knowledge.
Example: In many religions, God is believed to possess omniscience, seeing all things past, present, and future.
What does ‘Bureaucratic’ mean?
Relating to the complicated administrative procedures and rigid rules of government or organizations.
Example: The bureaucratic red tape made it nearly impossible to start a new business quickly.
What is ‘Ambiguity’?
The quality of being open to more than one interpretation; uncertainty or inexactness.
Example: The ambiguity in the contract’s wording led to a dispute between the two companies.
What does ‘A Walking Cacophony’ mean?
A person who creates constant noise, chaos, or conflicting messages.
Example: With his mismatched outfit, loud voice, and wild gestures, he was a walking cacophony.
What does ‘Egalitarian’ mean?
Believing in or based on the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.
Example: The new law was praised for its egalitarian approach to education, ensuring equal access for all students.
What is isopraxism?
Isopraxism refers to the tendency to imitate the actions of others.
“During the team-building retreat, the group’s natural isopraxism—mirroring each other’s body language and gestures—helped foster a sense of unity and trust.”
What does conciliatory mean?
Conciliatory means intended to placate or pacify.
“Her tone became conciliatory as she tried to ease the tension and find a compromise everyone could accept.”
What is a snafu?
Snafu is a situation marked by confusion or chaos.
“The event was going smoothly until a scheduling snafu caused two speakers to be booked at the same time.”
What does deferential mean?
Deferential means showing respect or yielding to the judgment of others.
“He was always deferential to his mentor, listening carefully and valuing her advice above all others.”
What does terse mean?
Terse means brief and to the point, often to the point of being rude.
“His terse reply made it clear he didn’t want to continue the conversation.”
What is the amygdala?
The amygdala is a small, almond-shaped part of the brain involved in processing emotions like fear, anger, and pleasure, and it plays a key role in memory and emotional reactions.
“When she heard the loud crash, her amygdala kicked into high gear, triggering an instant fight-or-flight response.”
What does credence mean?
Credence refers to belief in or acceptance of something as true.
“She gave little credence to the rumors, trusting her friend’s word over idle gossip.”
What does vituperative mean?
Vituperative means bitter and abusive in language.
“The debate quickly turned vituperative, with both candidates hurling harsh insults instead of discussing policies.”
