Vocabulary 2 Flashcards
Frenetic
(adjective)
“Frah-neh-tick”
Definition: Fast and energetic in an uncontrolled way.
The young child were frenetic, playing their first game of soccer.
The Straw That Broke The Camel’s Back
Meaning: Refers to a person’s limits or breaking point
Origin: A camel can carry 1200 pounds. Perhaps one more straw could break its back.
The straw that broke the came;’s back was when the transmission failed; I sold the car.
Tranquility
(noun)
“Trank-qwill-ih-tee”
Definition: peace and harmony
The peace agreement created a period of tranquility between two nations.
Apprehensive
(adj.)
“App-pre-hen-siv”
Definition: fearful and nervous
Once I climbed to the top of the rock, I was a bit apprehensive about jumping into the water below.
Nest Egg
Meaning: Some money that you have saved
Origin: Clay eggs were sometimes used to encourage hens to lay more eggs.
I had to dipinto my nest egg in order to fix the car.
Apprehensive
(adj.)
“App-pre-hen-siv”
Definition: fearful and nervous
Once I climbed to the top of the rock, I was a bit apprehensive about jumping into the water below.
The apple does not fall far from the tree
Meaning: The child is similar to the parent
Origin: This is a metaphor that comes from nature
The minute I met his parents, I know the apple had not fallen far from the tree.
Begrudge (verb)
Pronunciation (Bee - grudge)
Definition: To hold something against someone.
Nobody begrudges that fact that he broke down in tears.
Playing the field
Meaning: To date a variety of people with out committing to one
Origins: is a British racing team which means to be on every horse except for the favourite.
After a difficult breakup, Oliver thought it best to play the field for awhile.
Phenomenon (noun)
Pronunciation: “Feh-nohm-eh-nohn”
Definition: Anything that is experienced or felt; it is notice because it is unusual or new.
The recent earthquake was a phenomenon that was new to most residents.
Alienate (verb)
Pronunciation: (A - lee -em -ate)
Definition: To separate form the group
Her behaviour gradually alienated her from her friends.
