Vocabulary 2 Flashcards
1
Q
raspy
adj
A
rasping; grating
easily irritated
A sound is raspy when it is rough or scratchy. If you get a bad cold or scream encouragement to a losing team for a few hours, you will end up with a raspy voice.
2
Q
rummage
v
A
To rummage is to look through something, especially an untidy pile of something. (verb)
When you look through your messy closet to find a shirt, this is an example of a situation where you rummage through your closet.
3
Q
welt
n, v
A
If someone hits you hard with a thin stick, your skin might rise up in a welt. Ouch. A welt is a swollen bruise. n
beat severely with a whip or rod v
4
Q
jabber
v
A
jabber
to speak or say quickly, incoherently, or nonsensically; chatter; gibber
5
Q
careen
v
A
To careen is to move quickly and wildly from side to side in a specific direction in an out of control manner. (verb)
When you lose control of a sled and start going rapidly downhill in an uncontrolled way, this is an example of a time when you careen down the hill.
stagger
6
Q
Stagger
v
A
Stagger means to move or stand unsteadily, to hesitate or to waver. (verb)
An example of stagger is a very drunk person walking across the room. An example of stagger is a woman losing her nerve just before asking a man out on a date.
7
Q
Seedy
adj
A
Seedy describes something shabby, ailing or sordid, or something with many seeds. (adjective)
A gross hotel that rents rooms by the hour and that has old dirty carpet, worn rooms, and soiled linens is an example of a seedy building. An old man who has a reputation for trying to pick up drunk young girls is an example of someone who would be described as seedy. A pomegranate is an example of a seedy fruit.
8
Q
Vile
adj
A
Vile means offensive in a way that makes you want to leave. (adjective)
An example of vile is a person’s tasteless joke.
Vile means evil or without morals. (adjective)
An example of vile is a person who takes advantage of the poor or sick.
Vile is low quality or worthless. (adjective)
An example of vile is a car the breaks down immediately after it is sold.
9
Q
exasperate
v
A
To exasperate is to cause someone to become greatly irritated or annoyed. (verb)
When you repeatedly poke someone while whining and yelling at him, this is an example of a situation where you are likely to exasperate him
10
Q
Aggravate
A
Aggravate means to make worse or to annoy. (verb)
An example of aggravate is a brother who won't stop teasing his younger sibling. An example of aggravate is to constantly pick at a wound and not allow it to heal.
11
Q
Muddle
v
A
Muddle means to mix up, confuse or think in a confused way, or to mix up a drink. (verb)
An example of muddle is to mix up a bunch of students' papers. An example of muddle is yo smash mint in a glass in order to prepare a mohito cocktail.
12
Q
budge
v
A
To budge is to move or change something a little. (verb)
An example of budge is get a large rock to move a tiny bit. An example of budge is to get someone to alter their beliefs slightly.
13
Q
sapling
n
A
a young tree
a youth
14
Q
Bounce
v, n
A
Bounce means to spring back, jump or move suddenly. (verb)
An example of bounce is for a ball to come back after hitting a wall.
A bounce is a leap, jump or a spring back. (noun)
An example of a bounce is the action a ball takes after you throw it down towards the floor.
15
Q
loll
v
A
To loll is to lay around in a casual way, or to hang loosely. (verb)
When you lay around casually slumped on the couch, this is an example of when you loll around. When a dog's tongue is hanging floppily out of its mouth, this is an example of when it lolls
16
Q
slough
n, v
A
A slough is the skin of a snake or a layer or covering that has been discarded. (noun)
An example of slough is the skin of an onion that’s been removed and thrown away.
Slough means to shed or throw away. (verb)
An example of slough is to exfoliate the skin on your body.
17
Q
wallow
v
A
To wallow means to roll in or indulge. (verb)
An example of to wallow is for a pig to roll about in the mud. An example of to wallow is to continuously feel bad for one's self and to have self-pity
18
Q
skiff
n
A
any of various small, light, open boats propelled by oars, motor, or sail
19
Q
shaky
adj
A
not firm, substantial, or secure; weak, unsound, or unsteady, as a structure, belief, etc.
trembling or tremulous nervous or jittery
20
Q
victuals
n
A
meals, fare, viands, sustenance, provisions, supplies; see also food.
21
Q
speculate
v
A
To speculate is to hypothesize or come up with a theory about something but not a full tested or researched answer. (verb)
An example of speculate is when you brainstorm reasons why something happens but don’t actually do anything to find out.
Speculate is to buy or sell land or other investments that are high risk, with the goal to make a very big profit. (verb)
An example of speculate is to buy land way out in the country to build housing because you hear that a new manufacturing plant might be built close buy.
22
Q
sprinkle
v
A
sprinkle v scatter with liquid; wet lightly v rain gently v distribute loosely cause (a liquid) to spatter about, especially with force
23
Q
hive
n
A
hive
a box or other shelter for a colony of domestic bees; beehive a colony of bees living in a hive; swarm a crowd of busy, very active people a place where many people are busy or actively engaged
24
Q
delirium
n
A
mental disorder marked by confusion; uncontrolled
excitement; ADJ. delirious
25
carcass
n
A carcass is a dead body, especially one of an animal that has been consumed or dressed for consumption. (noun)
The dead body of a chicken that is going to be eaten is an example of a carcass.
26
gaudy
adj
Gaudy describes something that is bright and ornate, but overdone to the point of being tacky. (adjective)
An example of something that might be described as gaudy is a large tiara completely covered in big fake diamonds.
flashy; showy
27
chuckle
n, v
A chuckle is a laugh in a soft, low tone. (noun)
An example of a chuckle is a somewhat quiet laugh to a funny joke.
Chuckle means to produce a soft, low laugh. (verb)
An example of chuckle is to laugh very softly at a movie.
28
hinge
n, v
hinge
A hinge is a type of joint that attaches two things together while allowing for limited movement. A door hinge fastens the door to the wall and lets the door swing open.
v attach with a hinge
29
scour
n, v
scour
If you're going to scour those dishes, you'll need a good scouring pad. To scour also means to examine something very, very closely. Having lost his contact lens at the party, Robert asked everyone to scour the room to help him find it.
30
tangle
v
tangle
to hinder, obstruct, or confuse by or as by covering, circling, entwining, etc.
to catch in or as in a net or snare; trap
to make a knot or snarl of; intertwist
tangled adj
in a confused mass
31
Abreast
adv
Abreast describes things that are next to each other. (adverb)
An example of abreast is a row of soldiers marching in a parade.
Abreast means to keep up with something and to stay up-to-date. (adverb)
An example of abreast is the president of a company that stays informed on the competition’s new products.
32
doze
n
Are you sleepy? Maybe you need to doze a little. To doze is to sleep lightly or to take a nap.
33
Snug
adj
describes something that is warm, cozy, tight, or hidden. (adjective)
An example of something snug is a blanket: a snug blanket.
An example of something snug is a studio apartment with efficient furniture: a snug apartment.
An example of something snug is a jacket that is one size too small: a snug fit.
An example of something snug is a hibernating animal: to hide snug.
دافئ, مريح, محمي, محكم التفصيل
34
gust
n
A gust is a powerful and unexpected rush of wind, air, rain, water, sound, smoke or fire. (noun)
An example of a gust is the air from a train going by very fast.
An example of a gust is the noise from a quickly opened door to a crowded dance club on an otherwise quiet street.
An example of a gust is the flames that happen just after a person squirts lighter fluid on a fire.
Gust is taste or the enjoyment of flavor. (noun)
An example of gust is the sweetness of a ripe pear.
An example of gust is swirling a fine wine in your mouth.
35
clump
n, v
clump
n: a lump; mass
a mass of bacteria
a cluster, as of shrubs or trees
the sound of heavy footsteps
intransitive verb
to walk heavily; tramp
to form clumps
36
unyielding
adj
adjective – resistant to physical force or pressure
adjective – stubbornly unyielding
37
Foreshadow
v
Foreshadow means to give a hint beforehand that something is going to happen. (verb)
An example of foreshadow is to introduce a weapon into a movie scene, which will later be used in combat.
38
Impinge
v
Impinge means to hit, trespass or have an effect on something. (verb)
An example of impinge is rain falling on a windshield.
An example of impinge is being in a person's personal space.
39
irrevocable
adj
The definition of irrevocable is something that cannot be undone or changed. (adjective)
An example of irrevocable is a contract that, once signed, cannot be cancelled.
40
Importune
adj, v
Importune describes requests that are urgent and often. (adjective)
An example of importune used as an adjective is importune barking, the begging of a dog to go outside.
To importune means to ask for something over and over. (verb)
An example of to importune is to beg someone for money.
41
entreat
v
To entreat is to beg for something or beg to do something. (verb)
An example of entreat is when you beg your mother to let you go to a party.
42
finagle
v
When you finagle, you get out of something using devious methods, like when you pretend you're sick to avoid taking a pop quiz
43
Avail
v
Avail means to help or give an advantage. (verb)
An example of avail is for medication to improve the condition of a sick person.
44
marginalize
v
To marginalize is to treat a person or group as unimportant, insignificant or of lower status. (verb)
When people who disagree with you are ignored and pushed to the outsides of your group, this is an example of a time when you marginalize those who disagree.
45
Oust
v
Oust means to get rid of something or someone. (verb)
An example of oust is to kick a tyrant out of power.
46
ebb
v
To ebb is to move out further into the sea and further from land or to gradually decline or lessen. (verb)
An example of ebb is when a wave moves out to sea.
When you were interested in learning about science but then you began to get bored and your interest lessened, this is a situation where your interest in science began to ebb.
47
Entail
v
Entail means to require something as necessary. (verb)
An example of entail is a job that demands a lot of over time.
48
champion
n, v
A champion is a person who is the best in his field or who has defeated all rivals. (noun)
An example of a champion is an Olympic gold medal winner.
To champion is to speak up in favor of or in support of a cause. (verb)
An example of champion is an active supporter of women's rights.
49
ossify
v
To ossify is to become bony or to turn into bone or bony tissue, or to stop developing and become stagnant. (verb)
When tissue starts to become bony, this is an example of a time when the tissue begins to ossify.
When a business becomes stagnant and stops growing, this is an example of a time when the business begins to ossify.
50
Sclerotic
adj
Sclerotic means hard or having scoliosis. (adjective)
An example of something sclerotic is a skeleton.
51
extinguish
v
أطفأ
حطم
وضع حدا
سدد
دين
52
Dim
v,n
Dim means not bright, somewhat dark or unclear. (adjective)
An example of something dim is a fading light.
Dim means to make or become darker. (verb)
An example of dim is to lower the lights.
Dim means headlights on a low beam. (noun)
An example of a dim is a low level headlight beam on a car.
53
aperture
n
An aperture is a crevice, hole, or separation. (noun)
An example of an aperture is the opening in a camera lense.
54
forte
n
Your forte is your area of expertise or the thing which you do very well. (noun)
An example of forte is skiing for an Olympic skiier.
55
exclaim
v
To exclaim means to cry out or speak suddenly. (verb)
An example of to exclaim is a child saying "mine" when another child tries to take their toy.
56
convulse
v
transitive verb convulsed, convulsing
to shake or disturb violently; agitate
to cause convulsions, or spasms, in
to cause to shake as with laughter, rage, or grief
57
Bade
v
Bade means expressed to someone else. (verb)
An example when someone bade farewell is when a friend said goodbye to another.
YourDict
58
Toil
n, v
Toil means continuous and hard work. (noun)
An example of toil is labor in a field for 10 hours a day.
Toil means to engage in difficult and continuous work. (verb)
An example of toil is to work in physical labor for 10 hours a day.
59
Rhapsody
n
Rhapsody is extended, emotional piece of music or literature, or an enthusiastic written or spoken response or feeling, or an ancient Greek epic poem. (noun)
George Gershwin's composition called "Rhapsody in Blue," an emotional musical piece, is an example of a rhapsody.
Enthusiastic praise of an artist expressed by an ardent fan is an example of a rhapsody of praise.
60
Surmise
v
Surmise means to guess. (verb)
An example of to surmise is to guess the answer on a test.
61
dysphoria
n
Psychol. a generalized feeling of ill-being; esp., an abnormal feeling of anxiety, discontent, physical discomfort, etc.
62
Drastic
adj
Drastic describes something radical or extreme. (adjective)
When you have very long hair and you suddenly shave your head, this is an example of a change that would be described as drastic.
acting with force; having a strong or violent effect; severe; harsh; extreme
63
Forthright
adj
Forthright describes a person, action or statement that is direct and straightforward. (adjective)
When you are not shy about stating your opinion and you say what you mean, this is an example of a forthright person.
Forthright also means proceeding directly forward. (adverb)
An army marching straight ahead is an example of the forthright movement of the army.
64
Chic
adj
Chic describes a person who is stylish or adopts current fashion trends. (adjective)
An example of chic is someone who fashions their clothing style from Vogue magazine.
65
corroborate
v
verb – support with evidence or authority or make more certain or confirm
verb – give evidence for
verb – establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts
66
Beatification
n
Beatification is the state of extreme happiness. (noun)
An example of beatification is nirvana, or the reaching of a transcendent state believed by some to be perfection.
67
litany
n
A litany is a long and tedious list. (noun)
When a person lists all the things that are wrong with his house, this is an example of a litany of complaints about his house.
68
rebuttal
n
A rebuttal is an opposing argument or debate. (noun)
An example of a rebuttal is a defense attorney responding to allegations made by a district attorney against their client.
69
avid
adj
adjective – marked by active interest and enthusiasm
adjective – (often followed by `for') ardently or excessively desirous
70
Defiant
adj
Defiant describes someone or something that resists behaving or conforming to what is asked or expected. (adjective)
An example of defiant is someone who is told to do something and immediately does the opposite.
71
Irresolute
adj
Irresolute means uncertain or showing signs of indecision. (adjective)
If you tentatively agree to go to a party, then change your mind, and then tentatively agree to go again, this is an example of being irresolute.
72
Splendid
adj
Splendid means gorgeous or wonderful. (adjective)
An example of splendid is a magnificent wedding celebration.
73
Intrigue
v
Intrigue means to do something that gets another person interested. (verb)
An example of intrigue is a man and woman having a conversation at a bar that makes them want to know more about each other.
An intrigue is something that is done secretly through plotting. (noun)
An example of intrigue is the story of two famous lovers played out in a gossip magazine.
74
Exhilaration
n
Exhilaration is a feeling of great happiness or excitement. (noun)
When you win the lottery, this is an example of a time when you feel exhilaration.
75
tame
v
To make tame, or domestic
Submissive; docile; fawning: tame obedience
Sluggish; languid; inactive: a tame river
76
venial
adj
that may be forgiven; pardonable
| that may be excused or overlooked; excusable: said as of an error or fault
77
stipulate
v
To stipulate is to specify, demand or require something. (verb)
An example of stipulate is when you demand a certain quality of material in a contract.
78
Resent
v
Resent means to feel hurt or offended by something or someone. (verb)
An example of resent is the feeling an older brother feels about the amount of attention paid to a younger sibling.
79
Recuse
v
Recuse means to withdraw from the decision making process because of personal interest or unfairness. (verb)
An example of recuse is a judge being removed from a court case because she dated the defendant.
80
Misconduct
n,v
Misconduct describes improper or unacceptable behavior or wrongdoing or the mismanagement or abuse of your position. (noun)
When you lie or engage in other bad behavior, this is an example of misconduct.
To misconduct is to manage badly, or to behave improperly. (verb)
An example of misconduct is to mismanage an investigation by not considering all alternatives.
81
malpractice
n
noun – a wrongful act that the actor had no right to do; improper professional conduct
noun – professional wrongdoing that results in injury or damage
82
Cupidity
n
Cupidity refers to extreme greed for money or material possessions. (noun)
An obsession with getting rich and buying stuff is an example of cupidity.
83
Insatiable
adj
Insatiable describes an appetite for something that cannot be satisfied. (adjective)
An example of insatiable is a dog who cannot ever get enough to eat.
An example of insatiable is a desire for more and more money that never goes away.
84
braggadocio
n
noun – vain and empty boasting
85
knack
n
A knack is a clever skill or special talent for doing something quickly. (noun)
An example of knack is the ability to cook something delicious for unexpected dinner guests.
86
Inscrutable
adj
Inscrutable describes someone or something that is hard to figure out, understand or interpret. (adjective)
An example of an inscrutable problem is one for which no solution can be quickly found.
87
figment
n
A figment is something imagined. (noun)
When you believe that a monster lives under your bed and there is no monster living there, the monster is an example of a figment of your imagination.
Something invented, made up, or fabricated: just a figment of the imagination.
88
keepsake
n
تذكار
89
Evident
adj
Evident means obvious or easily understand. (adjective)
An example of evident used as an adjective is an evident fact, which is that two plus two equals four.
90
unheralded
adj
adj without warning or announcement
“"a totally unheralded telegram that his daughter...died last night"- M.A.D.Howe”
Synonyms:
unannounced, unpredicted
unexpected
91
legacy
n, adj
The definition of legacy is something that is passed on to you from family, including reputation. (noun)
An example of legacy is family property that has been handed down for generations.
Legacy means having had a family member attend a university before you. (noun)
An example of a legacy is a college student who applies to Harvard because his grandfather and father both went there.
Legacy means an older style or system. (adjective)
An example of legacy is the filing system of a previous secretary at your new job.
92
Posterity
n
Posterity is the future generations of a family. (noun)
An example of posterity is grandchildren.
93
swelter
v
verb – be uncomfortably hot
verb – suffer from intense heat
94
confection
n
حلوى
معجون
ملبس
فاكهة
95
Brood
v,n
Brood is the offspring or children in a family. (noun)
An example of brood is baby chicks all mothered by the same hen.
Brood means to sit on eggs, protect babies or to worry. (verb)
An example of brood is a mom sitting up worrying about her child.
96
Axiomatic
adj
Axiomatic means self evident or obvious. (adjective)
The fact that two things that are equal to a third thing are also equal to each other is an example of something that is axiomatic.
38
97
dispel
v
To dispel is to get rid of something that's bothering or threatening you, regardless of whether that's warts, worries, or wild dogs.
Th
98
infatuated
adj
مفتون
مخبول
ب
99
besotted
adj
Strongly infatuated: "he became besotted with his best friend's sister".
Intoxicated; drunk.
100
timeliness
n
timeliness
1
n being at the right time
101
cavalier
adj
A cavalier is a knight or a courteous gentleman. (noun)
An example of cavalier is Sir Lancelot.
Cavalier describes an arrogant person or someone indifferent or casual about important matters. (adjective)
An example of cavalier is someone not really caring about receiving an eviction notice.
102
Retort
n,v
Retort means to reply to something, often in a witty or sarcastic way that turns the comment back to the previous speaker. (verb)
An example of retort is to talk back to someone making fun of another.
A retort is a quick or witty reply. (noun)
An example of a retort is a what a person would say if they were mocking someone back who just mocked her.
103
addendum
n
An addendum is something additional or something that is added, especially to the end of a book. (noun)
An example of the word addendum is when a legal document is written and an extra piece of information is added later.
104
don
v
To don is to put on a piece of clothing. (verb)
When you put a hat on, this is an example of when you don a hat.
105
fabulist
adj
المخرف الكذاب
106
plangent
adj
beating with a loud or deep sound, as breaking waves, etc.
| loud or resonant, and, often, mournful-sounding
107
Pastoral
adj
Pastoral describes something associated with or related to country life. (adjective)
An example of pastoral is a painting of a farm.
108
doyenne
n
A woman who is the eldest or senior member of a group.
109
consigliere
n
A consigliere, an alternative spelling for consigliore, is a top aide or advisor to a Mafia boss or criminal organization. (noun)
A man who provides counsel and advice to the head of a Mafia crime family is an example of a consigliere.
110
follies
حماقات
111
confide
v
To confide is to trust someone enough to tell your secrets, worries or thoughts. (verb)
An example of confide is when you confess your secret crush to a friend.
112
Demeanour
n
Demeanour is an alternative spelling of demeanor, which refers to your general personality and the way you behave. (noun)
A person who is generally friendly and kind to everyone he or she meets is an example of someone with a friendly demeanour.
113
disquiet
v
أقلق
أزعج
114
heretofore
When someone says heretofore, they're describing things that have happened up to the present moment. This formal word means "thus far" and often appears in legal or other official documents.
115
Entrench
v
Entrench means to surround or securely establish, or to invade personal space. (verb)
An example of entrench is to built trenches around an army campsite.
An example of entrench is to infringe on a person's right to do something the way they want to do it.
116
Restive
adj
Restive describes someone who feels nervous when criticized or controlled, or a person or animal that stubbornly refuses to move forward. (adjective)
An increasingly impatient child who is become more tense and unruly is an example of someone who would be described as restive.
A horse that won't move forward no matter how much you pull on the reins is an example of a horse that would be described as restive.
117
Feigned
adj
Feigned means pretended or simulated. (adjective)
If you pretended to be fascinated with your sister's 100 slides from her vacation but really you didn't care at all, this is an example of a time when you had feigned interest.
118
perquisite
n
دخل إضافي
بقشيش
علاوة
119
prop
n,v
دعم
سناد
تأيد
120
auspice
n
An auspice is a show of support or advocacy. (noun)
An example of an auspice is the support of the Democratic National Committee for the Democratic presidential candidate.
An auspice is an omen or prophecy. (noun)
An example of an auspice is birds flying in certain patterns.
An example of someone who make an auspice is a prophet.
121
Crux
n
Crux means the central point of something or is something that seems impossible to solve. (noun)
An example of a crux is the most important beliefs of a religion.
An example of a crux is a Rubik's cube.
122
malarkey
Slang :insincere, meaningless, or deliberately misleading talk; nonsense
Exaggerated or foolish talk, usually intended to deceive: “snookered by a lot of malarkey” (New Republic).
123
obduracy
n
The state or quality of being intractable or hardened.
124
Peevish
adj
Peevish means hard to please or having a bad temper. (adjective)
An example of a peevish person is someone who always starts arguments with others.
125
Freight
n
Freight describes cargo or goods transported by truck or other means of transportation, or the amount you are charged to transport goods. (noun)
An example of freight is raw lumber that is transported from loggers to a furniture factory.
126
treacly
n
Cloyingly sweet or sentimental.
127
Tawdry
adj
Tawdry means gaudy or cheap, or it means mean or nasty. (adjective)
An example of tawdry used as an adjective is the phrase tawdry jewelry which means cheap, plastic-looking jewelry with big fake stones.
An example of tawdry used as an adjective is the phrase tawdry person which means a cruel individual.
A tawdry is something cheap or gaudy. (noun)
An example of a tawdry is jewelry made of burnt plastic.
128
Bloviate
v
Bloviate is to speak for a long time in an arrogant way. (verb)
An example of bloviate is for a person to give a lengthy speech about how great he is.
129
Illusory
adj
Illusory means made to be or related to something fake or deceptive. (adjective)
An example of something illusory is a wild tale of science fiction; an illusory tale.
130
presumption
n
A presumption is an acceptance of something as true without proof, or an attitude of superiority. (noun)
An example of a presumption is someone assuming their opinion is the right one.
131
Hiss
v
Hiss means to make the sound of a snake or a long s. (verb)
An example of to hiss is to go "ssssssss."
A hiss is the sound of an angry animal or of escaping air or steam, or the sound of a long s. (noun)
An example of a hiss is the sound of a snake in distress.
To show dislike or disapproval of by hissing
132
Boo
Boo is said to show disapproval, or to scare or surprise someone.
133
stymie
n,v
A stymie is an obstruction. (noun)
An example of a stymie is a problem that needs to be solved before the next step can be taken.
To stymie means to hinder or block. (verb)
An example of to stymie is to jump in front of someone to prevent her from taking cookies.
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profligate
adj
The definition of profligate is acting wasteful or spending money too freely. (adjective)
An example of profligate is a newly rich person buying houses for all their friends.
Profligate means acting in a way that is immoral or wrong. (adjective)
An example of profligate is a congressman spending government money on personal projects.
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Blunder
n,v
Blunder means to say or do something in a careless or stupid way. (verb)
An example of blunder is someone tripping over their own foot.
A blunder is a foolish mistake. (noun)
An example of blunder is someone referring to a man's wife as his daughter.
136
Egalitarian
n,adj
Egalitarian describes a belief that everyone should be treated the same or equally and all should have the same rights. (adjective)
An example of egalitarian hiring methods is where people are not discriminated against on the basis of race of religion.
An egalitarian is a person who believes all people were created equal and should be treated equal. (noun)
An example of an egalitarian is a person who fights for civil rights, like Martin Luther King Jr.
137
plutocrat
n
a member of a wealthy ruling class
a person whose wealth is the source of control or great influence
138
Balk
v
Definition: Refuse to proceed or to do something
Usage: At the company retreat, he reluctantly agreed to participate in the ropes course, but balked at walking over hot coals as a “trust exercise.”
Related Words: Demur (show reluctance or object, especially for moral reasons, as in, “His colleagues wanted him to tell the client that their sales would double, but he demurred.”)
More Info: Balk comes from a word for a beam or ridge—when a horse or mule balks, it stops short and refuses to proceed. Occasionally, balk is used as a noun for an impediment, much like a beam or ridge, or a defeat.
139
Bygone
n
Bygone means something that is in the past. (noun)
An example of a bygone is an old fight that a couple decide to leave in the past.
140
Quondam
adj
that was at one time; former
141
culminate
v
Definition: Reach the highest point or final stage
Usage: A Ph.D. program generally culminates in a written dissertation and its defense to a committee.
Related Words: Acme, Summit, Pinnacle, and Apex are all words for a high point or peak. Denouement means conclusion or ending, such as of a literary work, esp. one that “wraps up all the loose ends.”
142
Dissent
v,n
Dissent means to differ in opinion. (verb)
An example of dissent is for two children to disagree over who gets to play with a specific toy.
Dissent is a disagreement in opinion. (noun)
An example of dissent is the decision to vote differently from one's friends in the student council election.
143
Splendor
n
Splendor means great brilliance, richness or glory. (noun)
An example of splendor is the decor in an elegantly decorated wedding reception hall.
144
Clime
n
Clime means climate. (noun)
An example of clime is the Atacama desert in Chile being the driest place on earth.
145
unimpeachable
adj
not impeachable; that cannot be doubted, questioned, or discredited; irreproachable
146
Jingoism
n
Jingoism is extreme and aggressive patriotism that results in aggressive foreign policy. (noun)
An example of jingoism is a cartoon that makes fun of the politics or politicians in a foreign country.
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Paranoia
n
Paranoia is a mental disorder with delusions or extreme irrational fear or distrust of others. (noun)
An example of paranoia is someone thinking that everyone is out to get them.
148
quip
n,v
A quip is a witty or funny comment or remark. (noun)
An example of a quip is the remark by Woody Allen: "In California, they don't throw their garbage away - they make it into TV shows."
To quip is to make a witty remark. (verb)
When Fred Allen made the funny remark "I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me," this is an example of a time when Fred Allen quipped.
149
stewing
n
n an extreme state of worry and agitation
150
retrofit
n,v
A retrofit is a change to improve an already existing thing. (noun)
An example of a retrofit is a newly-designed piece of equipment added to an older airplane to make it safer.
Retrofit means to add improvements to something that already exists. (verb)
An example of retrofit is to make it easier to find your direction in a car by adding a GPS system on the dashboard.
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Eureka
Eureka is a Greek word that means "I have found it!" and is a cry of happiness or satisfaction when you find something or have an achievement. (interjection)
If you've been looking for your keys for an hour and you finally find them, this is an example of a time when you would shout "Eureka!"
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reminiscence
n
A reminiscence is a memory, or a story about past events, or something that brings to mind another thing. (noun)
When you tell or think back on a story about your childhood, this is an example of a reminiscence.
When the works of a new artist resemble or bring to mind the works of an existing artist, this is an example of reminiscence.
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repine
v
to feel or express unhappiness or discontent; complain; fret
154
Notwithstanding
Notwithstanding means despite or although. (conjunction)
An example of notwithstanding is when you think the weather is nice in general, even though it has been rainy today.
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deplore
v
To deplore means to be sorry about or to strongly disapprove of something. (verb)
An example of to deplore is being very sad about the death of a friend.
to be regretful or sorry about; lament
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desolate
v
If you feel alone, left out, and devastated, you feel desolate. A deserted, empty, depressing place can be desolate too.
157
penniless
adj
without even a penny; extremely poor
158
Grandeur
n
Grandeur means magnificence, something very impressive and amazing, high moral character or intellectual greatness. (noun)
An example of grandeur is the look and design of the Palace of Versailles or other old famous castles.
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pauper
n
A pauper is a poor person or someone with limited or no financial resources. (noun)
A very poor person living on the streets with no money is an example of a pauper.
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bequest
v
the act of bequeathing
anything bequeathed
161
Fraternal
adj
Fraternal describes something like brothers, or an organization for men who have similar beliefs, or twins who are born at the same time but from different eggs. (adjective)
If you have someone that you treat as if he were your brother, this is an example of a relationship would be described as fraternal.
brotherly
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Mortification
n
Mortification is the feeling of humiliation or wounded pride, or something that causes such feelings. (noun)
An example of a mortification is having your pants split open while on a stage.
something causing shame, humiliation, etc.
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Culpable
adj
Culpable means deserving of blame. (adjective)
An example of culpable is a person who has committed a wrongdoing.
164
Savvy
n
Savvy is understanding or knowledge of how to do something. (noun)
An example of savvy is the person who friends call to help them when their computer is having problems.
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cutback
n
n a reduction in quantity or rate
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Largesse
n
Largesse means money given with ease. (noun)
An example of largesse is a donor who writes a big check at every fundraiser.
167
subsidy
n
Writing
A subsidy is money or grants given by the government to support a project, business or industry, or a grant of money or financial support offered to fund an artist, project or other endeavor. (noun)
When the government gives a tax break to a corporation who creates jobs in depressed areas, this is an example of a subsidy.
When the government gives money to a farmer to plant a specific farm crop, this is an example of a subsidy.
When you are given a partial scholarship to college, this is an example of a subsidy.
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faddish
adj
adjective – intensely fashionable for a short time
169
Vitriol
n
Vitriol is harsh, nasty criticism. You may have deserved some blame when the cake didn't rise, but the head chef's stream of vitriol was unnecessary.
n abusive or venomous language used to express blame or censure or bitter deep-seated ill will
170
Hauteur
n
Hauteur is arrogance. (noun)
An example of hauteur is not talking to someone because you think their clothes look cheap.
171
dash
v
To dash means to move quickly, to destroy or to add elements to something. (verb)
An example of to dash is to run down the hallway.
An example of to dash is to ruin a family's chance to go on a special vacation, to dash their hopes.
An example of to dash is to add a bit of pepper to a salad.
to depress; discourage
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affiliate
n
An affiliate is an arm of an organization or a subsidiary. (noun)
An example of an affiliate is a local Fox station that is overseen by the larger organization of Fox.
An affiliate is a person who is in some way connected to another person or organization. (noun)
An example of an affiliate would be a journalist for a newspaper.
To affiliate is to connect yourself with someone or something else. (verb)
An example of affiliate is when a person joins an organization.
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Consonant
adj
Consonant means in agreement. (adjective)
An example of consonant used as an adjective is the phrase "consonant points of view" which means points of view that work well together.
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Repulsive
adj
Repulsive means disgusting. (adjective)
An example of something repulsive is vomit.
175
Nurture
n,v
Nurture is someone or something that provides support or nourishment. (noun)
An example of nurture is a parent raising a child.
An example of nurture is a senior employee teaching a new employee the details of the job.
An example of nurture is a well balanced meal.
Nurture means to feed, train or help develop someone or something. (verb)
An example of nurture is a mother bird feeding her baby birds.
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Dwell
v
Dwell means to live somewhere, to remain for a time or to continue thinking, writing or speaking about a particular point. (verb)
An example of dwell is to live in a cottage by the sea for several years.
An example of dwell is to continue feeling angry about an argument, even though it is long over.
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alliance
n
تحالف
affinity
178
recluse
n
A recluse lives alone, works alone, eats alone, and generally stays away from other people. Anti-social old hermits are recluses, as are a lot of students during exam time.
179
fellow-feeling
understanding, compassion, sympathy, empathy
180
venue
n
A venue is the place where an event or meeting is happening. If you're going to see the best band ever, you should get to the venue early to get a good seat.
181
Uncanny
adj
Uncanny refers to something odd, mysterious or unexpected that makes you feel uneasy. (adjective)
An example of uncanny is when someone looks almost exactly like your spouse.
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catatonic
adj
Use the adjective catatonic to describe someone who is in an unresponsive stupor, as if suffering from a mental disorder. Sometimes in the summer it gets so hot that people lose all their energy and get catatonic.
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Ineffable
adj
Ineffable means something that is not able to be expressed. (adjective)
An example of ineffable is overwhelming sadness that one does not know how to show.
An example of ineffable is the name of a deity that cannot be said out of respect.
184
Pertinent
adj
Pertinent describes something that has a logical connection to the current subject. (adjective)
An example of pertinent is someone mentioning Martin Luther King Jr. during a civil rights discussion.
185
cursorial
adj
adj (of limbs and feet) adapted for running
186
Putative
adj
Putative refers to something commonly accepted as true or thought by most to be true. (adjective)
When everyone thinks a certain author wrote an anonymous book, this is an example of a situation where the certain author is considered the putative author.
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Complicit
adj
Complicit describes someone who participates in, or associates with people who are involved in, illegal activities. (adjective)
An example of complicit is a person who's part of a drug dealing cartel.
188
apprehension
n
apprehension, has a secondary definition meaning to grasp, understand.
189
languish
v
To languish is to fail to advance or move forward. It can also mean to grow weak. (verb)
An example of languish is a project that just sits on the shelf and never gets finished.
An example of languish is a plant that is never watered and that gets sicker and sicker.
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Preempt
v
If everyone at the lunch meeting is vying for the last roast beef sandwich, but you grab it first, you preempt your colleagues from getting it. Let them eat liverwurst. Preempt means to displace or take something before others can.
acquire for oneself before others can do so
191
apostasy
n
An apostasy is the act of leaving behind, or straying from, your religious or political beliefs or your principles. (noun)
An example of apostasy is when someone decides to become atheist.
192
Dispensation
n
Dispensation is special permission to not have to follow a rule or to not be bound by a particular code of behavior. (noun)
An example of dispensation is when your boss gives you special permission to skip a required training course.
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perusal
n
A perusal is the examination or reading of something paying attention to details. (noun)
An example of perusal is the reading of help wanted ads in hopes of securing a job.
194
disposal
n
arrangement in a particular order: the disposal of furniture in a room
a dealing with matters or settling of affairs
195
ramification
n
A development or consequence growing out of and sometimes complicating a problem, plan, or statement:
ex: the ramifications of a court decision.
196
Repression
n
Repression refers to controlling or limiting someone or something by force or by exercise of authority, or the unconscious exclusion of thoughts from the mind. (noun)
When women are not allowed by men in society to be equals and are kept in a state of forced subjugation, this is an example of repression.
When someone does not remembers a painful time in their early childhood, this is an example of repression.
197
Winsome
adj
Winsome describes someone or something that is attractive either physically or in actions and character, or charming in a childlike way. (adjective)
A shy, childlike smile is an example of a winsome smile.
198
cagey
n
sly; tricky; cunning
careful not to get caught or fooled
199
fairness
n
ability to make judgments free from discrimination or dishonesty
the quality of being good looking and attractive
200
bravura
n
ذكاء
201
Grave
adj
Grave describes something that is serious or taken seriously or doing something in a solemn or sedate manner. (adjective)
An example of grave is when you have a terminal disease.
An example of grave is when you have a serious look on your face.
202
Delineate
v
Delineate means to trace an outline, to sketch something or to describe with great specificity. (verb)
An example of delineate is to draw the outline of the United States.
An example of delineate is to explain a specific drawing down to the last detail.
203
prod
v
To prod is to encourage someone to do something, or to poke at someone with your finger, foot or other pointed object. (verb)
When you encourage your spouse to go back to school, this is an example of a time when you prod him to go to school.
When you poke someone with your finger, this is an example of a time when you prod.
204
louche
adj
questionable; shady; odd
Of questionable taste or morality; decadent:
205
foray
n
A foray is a sudden short attack or move into enemy territory, or is an effort to branch out and try something new. (noun)
When a military force suddenly goes into the territory of its enemy, this is an example of a foray.
When you start to try dabbling in cooking for the first time, this is an example of a foray into cooking.
206
buoy
n,v
To buoy is to raise someone's spirits or to keep something or someone afloat. (verb)
An example of buoy is when you try to cheer up someone who has just been fired and to encourage him to keep his hopes up.
An example of buoy is when a life jacket helps to keep you afloat.
A bouy is a floating object that is anchored to warn of danger or to mark a location. (noun)
An example of a bouy is a floating post with a light that shows the entry to the harbor.
207
Spawn
v,n
Spawn is to give birth to or produce. (verb)
An example of spawn is when you have a child.
Spawn refers to the offspring of a person or animal. (noun)
An example of spawn is a person's children.
208
Camaraderie
n
Camaraderie is the loyalty and warm, friendly feelings that friends have for each other. (noun)
An example of camaraderie is a group of women getting together to knit and talk on a weekly basis.
209
cachet
n
A cachet is a stamp, seal or other sign saying that something is official or approved, or a mark showing that something is superior quality or prestigious. (noun)
An example of a cachet is a vacation request with "approved" stamped in ink.
An example of a cachet is the US President's official seal on a letter to Congress.
210
oasis
n
An oasis is a fertile place where there is water in the midst of a desert or a place of calm in the midst of chaos. (noun)
An example of an oasis is an underground spring in a desert.
An example of an oasis is a calm and peaceful room in the midst of a chaotic house.
211
Fauna
n
Fauna are the animals characteristic of a particular time period or a particular location. (noun)
The animals that are characteristic of the rain forest are an example of its fauna.
212
grotto
n
A grotto is a small cave, the kind of place where you feel comfortable, cozy, and protected from the harsh realities outside.
213
Prejudice
n
Prejudice is an opinion or judgment that disregards the facts. (noun)
An example of prejudice is racism.
An example of prejudice is liking a person because they have blue eyes.
An example of prejudice is not liking someone because they don't share your religion.
214
Élan
n
Élan is the state of having a lot of self confidence or enthusiasm. (noun)
An example ofélan is believing that you can do anything.
215
monomania
n
an excessive interest in or enthusiasm for some one thing; craze
a mental disorder characterized by irrational preoccupation with one subject
216
artisan
n
An artisan is a skilled worker or craftsman. (noun)
A baker of specialty breads is an example of an artisan.
217
ham-handed
Lacking dexterity or skill; clumsy.
Lacking social grace or tact.
Having unusually large hands.
218
Sleek
adj
Sleek describes someone or something that is smooth, glossy, shiny, well-groomed or sophisticated. (adjective)
Shiny and well-groomed hair is an example of hair that would be described as sleek.
A shiny new sports car with clean lines is an example of a car that would be described as sleek.
219
Daring
adj
Daring describes brave, risk-taking, willingness to take risks, or to be bold. (adjective)
An example of someone daring is a stunt car driver.
An example of something daring is a memo to your boss that asks for big changes.
220
Appraise
v
Appraise means to determine the value or quality of something or what something is worth. (verb)
To inspect an area that was hit by a tornado to come up with a dollar figure on the damage it caused is an example of appraise.
221
Tortuous
adj
Tortuous refers to something very complex and difficult to follow, or something full of twists and turns. (adjective)
An example of tortuous is an argument that is complex and challenging to follow.
222
Adumbrate
v
Adumbrate means to suggest beforehand or to vaguely foreshadow. (verb)
An example of adumbrate is to introduce minor clues into the text of a murder mystery novel.
223
sang-froid,
n
If you have sang-froid, you can keep your cool, even under stress. Your feathers aren't easily ruffled.
This foreign-sounding word is another way of saying "poise under pressure." We borrowed it from French, where it literally means "cold blood." Great athletes who do well in the last two minutes of a game have sang-froid. James Bond definitely has sang-froid. You better have sang-froid when you're taking the SATs. If you're worried, nervous and starting to crack, you've pretty much lost your sang-froid.
224
Rampant
adj
Rampant describes something that exists in large quantities or that grows and expands unrestrained. (adjective)
An example of rampant is when ants have invaded your kitchen.
violent and uncontrollable in action, manner, speech, etc.
225
precis
n
A precis is a summary of something's main points. If you've ever jotted down notes about your main ideas before writing a persuasive essay, you've used a precis.
226
Askance
adv
Askance describes something done with a hint of suspicion, doubt or disapproval. (adverb)
An example of the word askance would be the look a parent gives a child when she suspects he is not telling the truth.
227
Unduly
adv
Unduly means excessively or improperly. (adverb)
When you are overly influenced by the opinions of others to an unhealthy degree, this is an example of when you are unduly influenced.
228
Hodgepodge
n
Hodgepodge describes a jumbled mixture. (noun)
An example of hodgepodge is if you have a collection of different buttons.
