Words You Should Know in High School 2 Flashcards
1
Q
ravenous (a)
/RA-vuh-nuss/
A
Extremely hungry or greedy for something; predatory. Intensely eager to be satisfied, to gratify desires.
Ravenous as they were, the team could hardly wait though the introductory banquet speeches before starting their meal.
2
Q
ravishing (a)
/RA-vih-shing/
A
Extremely beautiful, delightful, and pleasing to the eye.
As you would expect, the bride was ravishing as she walked down the chapel aisle.
3
Q
recalcitrant (a)
/rih-KAL-sih-trunt/
A
Stubbornly resistant to the control or authority of others. Difficult to deal with, work with, supervise.
The high school principal’s office was like a second home for some recalcitrant students.
4
Q
recapitulate (v)
/re-kuh-PIH-choo-late/
A
To summarize in concise form; to briefly retell the essential points of a story.
Great public speakers are known for their abilities to recapitulate and gesticulate.
5
Q
reciprocate (v)
/re-SIH-pro-kate/
A
To give or act in turn following the lead of another. To give or do in return for something else.
It was difficult to determine how best to reciprocate for all of the concern, caring, and help received after the twins were born.
6
Q
reclamation (n)
/reh-cluh-MAY-shun/
A
The conversion of unusable land into land suitable for farming or other uses.
The reclamation of the inner city was deemed miraculous by those who lived there.
7
Q
reclusive (a)
/rih-0KLOO-siv/
A
Withdrawn from the rest of the world; solitary and hermitlike. Shut off from the influences of the world or others.
After her husband died, Mrs. Hailton lived a reclusive life, rarely coming out of her house or speaking to anyone.
8
Q
recompense (v)
/REH-kum-pents/
A
To pay someone for work or services. To give compensation for suffering, loss or injury.
To recompense Mrs. Williams for all her suffering would be impossible.
9
Q
reconnoiter (v)
/reh-kuh-NOY-ter/
A
To explore an area in order to gather information, especially about the position and strength of the enemy. To engage in reconnaissance.
The overly zealous coach, who was prone to military metaphors, said he would be “reconnoiter” rather than scout the opposing team.
10
Q
recoup (v)
/ree-COOP/
A
To regain something lost; to make up for something lost. To make up for something that has been lost.
Habitual gamblers think they will recoup their losses if they just continue their risky behaviors.
11
Q
rectify (v)
/REK-tuh-fie/
A
To make sosmething right; to correct an error. Technically, to purify a substance through distillation.
As people get older, they are often inspired to rectify past mistakes, particularly those associated with family and friends.
12
Q
recuse (v)
/ree-KYOOZ/
A
To disqualify someone from judging or participating in something because of bias or personal interest. To withdraw oneself from judging or participating in something for personal reasons.
Seeking a balanced jury, the defense attorney recused many potential jurors until he approved of them all.
13
Q
refuge (n)
/REF-yooj/
A
A shelter or protected place that is safe from harm or threat. Protection or safe shelter from something or someone.
Many Cubans seek refuge in America and risk their lives to do so.
14
Q
regress (v)
/ree-GRES/
A
To return or revert to an earlier, less advanced, and generally worse state. To Move backwards.
After she worked hard to raise her grades, a sudden illness caused Mary to regress in her study habits.
15
Q
regurgitate (v)
/ree-GUR-jih-tate/
A
To bring undigested or partially digested food from stomach to mouth. To repeat or reproduce what has been heard, read, or taught in a purely mechanical way without evidence of thought or understanding.
For some courses, all that is necessary to receive good grades is to memorize and then regurgitate facts, figures, or definitions.
16
Q
reiterate (v)
/ree-IH-tuh-rate/
A
To say or do something repeatedly, often in a boring way.
The candidate reiterated her views at each campaign stop and in every interview.
17
Q
relinquish (v)
/ri-LIN-kwish/
A
To give up or surrender. To give something up or put it aside, emotionally or physically.
When he took ill, Tim’s father relinquished many of the more physical household chores.
18
Q
remedial (a)
/ruh-MEE-dyuhl/
A
Acting as a remedy or solution to a problem. Designed to help those with learning difficulties, or to improve skills or knowledge.
While some students are too embarrassed to track them down, remedial services available for those in need are often powerful and effective.
19
Q
reminisce (v)
/REH-muh-NISS/
A
To talk, write, or think about events remembered from the past.
It seems odd to parents to hear teens reminiscing about their elementary school years.
20
Q
remittance (n)
/ree-MIH-tunce/
A
The sending of money to pay for a service or merchandise.
Credit cards seem to some as magic money, until you have to send a remittance to their issuer every month.
21
Q
remunerate (v)
/rih-MYOO-nuh-rate/
A
To pay money for goods or services, or compensate someone for losses or inconvenience.
After the accident, the insurance company remunerated her for damages within twentry-four hours, so Martha got her car fixed.
22
Q
renaissance (n)
/REH-nuh-sans/
A
A rebirth or revival, as of something forgotten or that was one less known or popular.
The university’s renaissance pleased its alumni, who were happy to see it return to its former educational excellence.
23
Q
renege (v)
/rih-NIHG/
A
To go back on or break a promise, commitment, or agreement.
Some adolescents feel that parents often renege on promises of rewards for specific behavior, so family trust is tested.
24
Q
renunciation (n)
/re-nun-see-AY -shun/
A
A denial or rejection of something, often for moral or religious reasons.
Tim’s renunciation of alcohol and drugs had such great consequences that he made others wish to follow his example.
25
repartee (n)
/reh-pur-TEE/
Conversation consisting of witty remarks, or a witty remark or reply. Also, skill in making witty conversation.
It was amusing to watch the girls practice their repartee, hoping not to be embarrassed on their first dates.
26
replete (a)
/rih-PLEET/
Amply and completely supplied with something. Having eaten enough.
27
reprobate (n)
/REH-pruh-bate/
Disreputable, unprincipled, or immoral person. Someone whose soul is said to be damned.
Being called a reprobate was shocking to Blake, who thought his behavior normal for a teenager.
28
rescind (v)
/ri-SIND/
To remove or overrule the authority of something. To reverse a decision or act, making it null and void.
29
resilient (a)
/rih-ZUL-yunt/
Able to recover quickly from setbacks. Able to spring back into shape after being stretched, deformed, or bent.
Jane proved most resilient, as she was able to play in the season's final lacrosse game a few days after her knee injury.
30
resolute (a)
/reh-zuh-LOOT/
Possessing determination; motivated by or displaying determination and purposefulness.
Americans seemed even more resolute to fight terrorism after the horrendous events of September 11, 2001.
31
resonate (v)
/REH-zuh-nate/
To echo; to make something else vibrate or produce a similar sound. To produce a sympathetic response.
The crying of any infant resonates with those who are parents, as they are sensitive to these sounds and the feelings they inspire.
32
respite (n)
/REH-spit/
Brief period of rest and recovery between periods of exertion or after something disagreeable; a temporary delay or stay of execution.
The coach felt the girls had earned a respite from wind sprints because they were working so hard during practice.
33
restitution (n)
/res-ti-TOO-shun/
The return of something to its rightful owner. Compensation for a loss, damage, or injury.
A bill authorizing restitution to the citizens interned in the camps recently cleared Congress.
34
restive (a)
/RES-tive/
Stubborn and unwilling to accept rules or control; impatient with delay. Having little patience; unwilling to tolerate annoyances.
The restive players gathered around the coach, eager to get the game underway.
35
reticent (a)
/REH-tuh-sunt/
Unwilling to communicate very much, talk a great deal, or reveal all facts.
On the first day of high school even the most outgoing students seem a bit reticent.
36
retroactive (a)
/reh-troh-AK-tiv/
Reaching back into the past; effective as of an earlier date, especially in therms of contracts or agreement. Relating to or applying to things that have happened in the past as well as the present.
The reimbursement eligibility for those who paid the higher parking fee was made retroactive as of September 1.
37
retrospective (n)
/reh-truh-SPEK-tuv/
Something based on memory of past events, containing examples of work from many periods of an artist's life, or applying to things past as well as present.
38
revile (v)
/rih-VILe/
To make a fierce or abusive verbal attack; to curse or abuse in harsh language. To use insulting or abusive language; to denounce using harsh language.
39
rhetorical (a)
/ruh-TOH-rik-kul/
Asked with no expectation of response; often describes sarcastic questions, or those the questioner knows cannot be answered. Persuasive and skilful, as in argumentation.
The dean's rhetorical skills were much needed as he explained the new alcohol policy to the entire student body.
40
ribald (a)
/RIH-buld/
Humorous in a rude and vulgar way. Amusingly coarse, lewd, and off-color; often used to describe a joke about sex.
The football team became infamous for ribald behavior, and on occasion they were disciplined for it.
41
roguish (a)
/ROH-gish/
Mischievous, often in an unscrupulous or dishonest way. Like a rogue; known to have low morals and bad habits.
Roguish behavior is not to be appreciated or imitated, no matter the reputation of the rogue.
42
sagacious (a)
/suh-GAY-shuss/
Possessing excellent judgement and powers of discernment; that is, able to make wise decisions.
Professor Blake's sagacious reputation made him one of the university's most popular lectures and advisers.
43
salacious (a)
/suh-LAY-shuss/
Lewd, off-color; intended to titillate or arouse sexually with explicit erotic content. Exhibiting explicit or crude sexual desire or describing deliberately provocative pictures or writing.
44
salience (n)
/SAY-lee-uns/
The quality of being important or striking. A particularly important or striking feature or relevant point of discussion.
Teachers grade students essay on the salience of their thesis statements, supporting paragraphs, and conclusions.
45
saline (a)
/SAY-leen/
Salty; describes a solution of salt and distilled water, especially one having the same concentration of body fluids.
Judy was so dehydrated that the doctor had to give her an intravenous saline solution.
46
salutary (a)
/SAL-yoo-tare-ee/
Promoting good health. Of value or benefits to someone; conductive to good health.
The salutary effects of visiting a spa seem more psychological than physical.
47
sanctum (n)
/SANK-tuhm/
A scared place inside a church, mosque, or temple. A quiet and private place free of interference or interruption.
Many teens feel as if their rooms are sanctums, and they forbid anyone to enter without permission.
48
sanguine (a)
/SAN-gwinn/
Cheerfully optimistic; displaying a positive attitude. Also describes something blood-red in color, or flushed with a healthy rosy color.
After the accident, Ken remained sanguine, speeding his recovery and inspiring the nurses and doctors who treated him.
49
sardonic (a)
/sar-DON-ik/
Disdainful; ironic in a mocking way. Extremely sarcastic and scornful.
The more angry he became at his sister, the more sardonic Michael's comments sounded.
50
satchel (n)
/SA-chul/
A small bag, often with a shoulder strap, used for carrying books and personal belongings.
When the laptop computer became popular, everyone seemed to purchase and carry satchels.
51
saturnine (a)
/SAT-ur-neen/
Gloomy, moody, and morose.
Oddly, after the death of his father, Harry became hopeful and optimistic rather than saturnine.
52
savant (n)
/SUH-vont/
A wise or scholarly person, especially one with great knowledge in a very specialized field or area.
In an irony of nature, some autistic persons who cannot communicate normally posses intellectual powers that can only be described as those of a savant.
53
savory (a)
/SAY-voh-ree/
Salty or sharp tasting, rather than sweet. Having an appetizing taste or smell.
Mother's cooking was so savory that it could be smelled as we walked up the path to the front door.
54
scapegoat (n)
/SKAPE-goat/
Someone who is made to take the blame for others. Someone who is unjustly blamed for causing upset or distress.
Students become livid when they think they are being made the scapegoat for the acition of others.
55
scathing (a)
/SKAY-thing/
Severly critical and scornful, often referring to speech or writing about someone's conudct or performance.
The scathing review of the movie had no impact on its popularity or profitability.
56
schism (n)
/SKIH-zum/
Division of a group into mutually antagonistic and disagreeing factions. One faction formed after a disagreement.
Presidential elections recently have created schisms and anger among voters, rather than unified and motivated groups.
57
schmaltz (n)
/SHMALTS/
Exaggerated, histrionic speech or behavior meant to generate sympathy.
Planners often tyr to minimize the schmaltz when organizing fundraising event for fighting serious diseases.
58
schmooze (v)
/SHMOOZ/
To chat socially and agreeably. To talk persuasively to somebody, often to gain personal advantage.
Steve has been schmoozing his parents nonstop, a sure sign he wants something big.
59
scintilla (n)
/sin-TIH-luh/
A tiny amount of something. Also a spark, as in a small flicker of emotion.
The castways preserved a scintilla of hope, along with a scintilla of potable water.
60
scintillate (v)
/SIN-tul-ate/
To give off or reflect light as sparks or sudden flashes. To dazzle in a lively clever, or witty way.
News about the new film has been hard to come by, but a few scintillating details have leaked out.
61
scofflaw (n)
/SKAWF-lauw/
Someone who ignores, or scoff at, the law.
Eventually the scofflaw will pay for his actions, if not for his parking tickets.
62
scrimshaw (n)
/SKRIM-shauw/
The teeth or bones of whales and walruses, engraved with detailed drawings, usually sea related.
Collectors of scrimshaw understand how this part contributed to endangering whale population, but they continue to cherish their prize possessions.
63
script (n)
/SKRIP/
Paper currency or coupons issued for emergency use. A list, receipt, or short piece of writing. A doctor's prescription.
During World War II, script was use to purchase gas and other commodities that were being rationed.
64
semantics (n)
/suh-MAN-tiks/
The study of how language conveys meaning. An excessive focus on the way something is phrased, rather than what it says.
The coach's urging to "play aggressive" rather than "hurt the opponents" was a matter of semantics, and its interpretation depended upon which team you wanted to win.
65
semblance (n)
/SEM-blunts/
Outward appearance or show, usually not true. A representation, copy, or likeness.
When the principal entered the classroom being taught by a substitute, there appeared to be no semblance of order.
66
seminal (a)
/SEM-ih-nul/
Highly original and influential, as in ideas that inspire later developments. Relating to, containing, or carrying semen or seeds.
For many , the Ten Commandments are the seminal expression of laws, value, and societal norms.
67
sentient (a)
/SEN-shunt/
Capable of feeling and perceptions; the quality of being concious or aware. Capable of emotional response and of receiving impression from the senses.
Any sentient being should be able to notice the dreariness that comes with a cloud day.
68
sequester (v)
/si-KWES-ter/
To isolate, cut off from everyday life and outside influences. To take legal possession of someone's property until a debt is paid or dispute resolved.
When the judge adjourned court for the day, he also sequestered the jury for the remainder of the trial.
69
serendipitous (a)
/sare-un-DIH-pih-tuss/
Accidental in a happy and fortuitous way. Often describes useful discoveries made by accident, or important insights encountered as fortunate coincidences.
It was serendipitous that Phil won new golf club a week before the club championship.
70
serene (a)
/suh-REEN/
Clear and calm, without worry, disturbance, or stress. Bright without clouds.
Visiting the lake house always made her feel serene, so she went there before her wedding.
71
servitude (n)
/SIR-vuh-tood/
State of slavery, of being ruled or dominated. Work imposed as punishment.
Being force to paint the house in order to ear his allowance felt like servitude to Burt.
72
sesquicentennial (n)
/sess-kwa-sen-TEN-yuhl/
A 150th anniversary, celebration of a 150th anniversary, or a 150-year period.
Historians reveal that the U.S. sesquicentennial celebration in 1926 was much more reserved than the bicentennial of 1976.
73
severance (n)
/SEV-runts/
The act of cutting one thing of or free from another. In business, compensation to an employee who is fired or laid off.
Unsure of whether they would receive any severance, in the end they were happy to get three months' pay after the lay-off.
74
skulduggery (n)
/skul-DUG-guh-ee/
Practices carried out in a secretive way in order to trick people.
The skulduggery of the Watergate burglars has become infamous, for it forced a President to resign.
75
sobriquet (n)
/soh-brih-KAY/
An unofficial name or nickname, especially a humorous one. Something almost every high school student has, although some just do not know what other call them behind their back.
How embarrassing that she would call him "Pookie," a private sobriquet, in fron of others.
76
socialism (n)
/SOH-shuh-lih-zum/
A political theory that gives workers fair and equitable control over the goods and products they produce, as opposed to the free market principles and competition of capitalism.
Historically, socialism has proven to work in theory only, with little success in real-world application.
77
Socratic method (n)
/suh-CRA-tik METH-uhd/
A process of teaching and learning, in which the teacher asks questions that force the students to think and arrive at their own logical conclusions.
Many of the best law professors use the Socratic method to teach students.
78
solace (v)
/SOL-uss/
The family solaced each other with the knowledge she had fought her cancer bravely.
To comfort someone at a time of sadness, disappointment, or grief; to sympathize with and console.
79
soliloquy (n)
/suh-LIL-uh-kwee/
The act of talking to yourself, from the Latin for "speak alone." In theatre, a monologue that lets a character express inner emotions that would be difficult to communicate in dialogue.
The soliloquy is a dramatic device made famous by Shakespeare.
80
somnambulate (v)
/som-NAH-byoo-late/
To walk in your sleep
Kenny shocked his teammates when he somnambulist on their first road trip.
81
soothsayer (n)
/SOOTH-say-her/
Someone who predicts the future though magic, intuition, or other imaginative means.
Scientists are sceptical about anyone who claims to be a soothsayer, for they believe it impossible to foretell the future.
82
sophomoric (a)
/sah-fuh-MOH-rick/
Showing a lack of judgement characteristic of immaturity. Also, relating to sophomores.
How strange and confusing it was to hear the principal call the junior class prank sophomoric.
83
sordid (a)
/SORE-did/
Demonstrating the worst aspects of human nature; immoral, tawdry, greedy. Undignified; dirty and depressing.
Biographies are often profitable publications, especially those containing sordid details about the lives of famous people.
84
specious (a)
/SPEE-shuss/
Attractive on the surface, but actually of no real interest or value; deceptive. Appearing to be true, but really false.
At first it was thought that archeologistis found the remains of Jesus' brother James, but later all the evidence was proved specious.
85
speculative (a)
/SPEH-kyoo-luh-tiv/
Based on conjecture or incomplete information. Describes opinions or conclusions not based on facts.
Even most detailed statistical analyses of actuaries are only speculative in nature.
86
spurious (a)
/SPYUR-ee-us/
False. Illegitimate, as in a child. True and believable but on the outside only.
Eric's belief that has bad grades were because teachers did not like him was spurious, for in truth, he was very well liked.
87
spurn (v)
/SPERN/
To reject someone's offers or advanced with scorn and contempt.
The fear of being spurned prohibits so many form revealing their true feelings.
88
squalor (n)
/SKWAH-lur/
Shabbiness and dirtiness resulting from poverty or neglect. State of moral decay.
The investigation found that because the three children lived in squalor, they would be better off in a foster home.
89
stalwart (a)
/STAHL-wert/
Dependable, loyal, strong, sturdy, and courageous.
The stalwart support of his colleagues was what drove Dan to further achievements.
90
stately (a)
/STAYT-lee/
Impressive, dignified, and graceful in manner. Grad and imposing in appearance.
First-time visitors to the White House are always impressed by its stately interior and impressive grounds.
91
stigma (n)
/STIG-muh/
A sign of shame or disgrace attached to something socially unacceptable.
The stigma of having a child out of wedlock seemed to diminish in the late nineties.
92
stipulate (v)
/STIH-pyoo-late/
To specify a certain condition in an agreement or offer. To promise something formally or legally.
The will does stipulate that you must wait until you are thirty years old to receive the money.
93
subjugate (v)
/SUB-jih-gate/
To put someone, a group, or a nation under control. To cause to become subservient.
Throughout history, dictators' attempts to subjugate other countries have failed in the end.
94
sublimate (v)
/SUB-lih-mate/
To bury and conceal the energy of an impulse or desire, usually one having to do with sex, in a pursuit considered more proper.
An artist who can sublimate his feelings might find them transformed into great works.
95
sublime (a)
/suh-BLIME/
Awe-inspiring beauty that seems heavenly. Of the highest moral or spiritual value; lofty, splendid, or complete.
The climbers were rewarded at the top of mountain by a sublime view of the valley.
96
subservient (a)
/sub-SER-vee-unt/
Eager to follow wishes or orders. Bending to the will of another; servile.
In spite of how sexist it sounded, Ken thought that wives would be subservient to their husbands.
97
subversive (a)
/sub-VER-suv/
Intended to undermine a government or other institution, usually by secret action performed from the inside; undermining.
Antiwar protesters of the 1960s were thought by many to be subversive and by other to be patriots who personified the value of freedom of speech.
98
succinct (a)
/suk-SINKT/
Compact and clear, expressed without unnecessary words.
Thomas's acceptance speech was succinct, lasting only one minute and composed of less than a hundred words.
99
supercilious (a)
/soo-per-SIH-lee-uss/
Contemptuous, arrogant. Disdainful and haughty; overbearingly proud.
Wealthy individuals sometimes behave in a supercilious way, as if money justified overbearing behavior.
100
surreptitious (a)
/suh-rup-TISH-uss/
Secret or sneaky, especially in terms of actions and acquisitions. Stealthy.
Intelligence gathering is a surreptitious activity, accomplished covertly.
101
sycophant (n)
/SIH-kuh-fant/
Someone who falters a powerful person for personal gain; an ambitious flatterer who tries to improve his status by fawning over those in authority.
Presidents and world leaders should not surround themselves with sycophants, for they need to hear critical and realistic views regarding critical issues.
102
symposium (n)
/sim-POH-zee-uhm/
A gathering, for the purpose of discussing a particular subject and where learned people make presentations.
The symposium on how to teach high school students was very well attended by teachers and administators.
103
tableau (n)
/ta-BLOW/
A clear, descriptive representation of something; a picture. An artistic grouping of varied elements.
The prehistoric tableau in New York's Museum of Natural History are so lifelike that they sacred young children.
104
tacit (a)
/TA-sit/
Understood or implied without being stated; not spoken.
Each juror's tacit assumption must be that the defendant is innocent until proven guilty.
105
taciturn (a)
/TA-sih-turn/
Quiet, of few words. Regularly uncommunicative or reserved in manner and speech. Someone who avoids conversation.
Kenny was concerned that Emily's father's taciturn nature indicated that he disapproved of their dating.
106
tactile (a)
/TAK-tull/
Able to be felt or perceived by the sense of touch. Also, related to the sense of touch.
Velvet is pretty to look at, but it provides a mostly tactile pleasure.
107
talisman (n)
/TAH-lus-mun/
An object believed to give magical power to those who carry or wear it. Anything believed to have magical powers.
Many indigenous people wear a talisman to ward off evil.
108
tandem (a)
/TAN-dum/
Two-steated, as in a bicycle. An arrangement of two or more items in which one is placed behind the other; single file.
The team's warm-up featured a tandem lay-up drill that intimidated opponents and inspired the crowd
109
tangential (a)
/tan-JENT-shul/
Veering off from the main or current subject; departing from the plotted course. Peripheral.
Please stop; your tangential information is only serving to confuse our decision making.
110
tangible (a)
/TAN-juh-bull/
Able to be perceived with any sense, but especially via the sense of touch. Able to be understood and evaluated with the mind.
Sometimes tangible rewards of teaching, like salary, are not what matter, for the intangibles also pay off.
111
tantalizing (a)
/TAN-tuh-lie-zing/
Attractive and tempting, often due to unavailability or unattainably.
College is a tantalizing goal for many students, but low SAT scores and poor grades make this dream impractical for some.
112
Tao (n)
/DOW/
Literally, "the way." An Eastern philosophy founded by Lao-tzu and described in the Tao Te Ching. Basically, an expression of the ultimate reality, the universal energy that makes and maintains everything. The order and wisdom of life and harmony with the universe.
She was reading a book with a more philosophical look at relationships called The Tao of Dating.
113
tautology (n)
/tow-Tah-luh-gee/
A redundant repetition of meaning in a sentence or idea using different words.
Stating that you know a foreigner from another nation is a tautology, because all foreigners are from other countries.
114
tectonic (a)
/tek-TAH-nik/
Having to do with the geological structure of the earth, particularly the earth's crust. The study of tectonics investigates the way a plant's crust works, forming mountains and causing earthquakes.
115
telekinesis (n)
/tel-uh-kuh-NEE-siss/
The supposed psychic power to move objects with the mind.
Some comic book characters are known for their powers of telekinesis.
116
temblor (n)
/TEM-blor/
An earthquake. From the Spanish verb meaning "to quake."
Since the last earthquake all new construction was required to be built to withstand large temblors.
117
temerity (n)
/tuh-MARE-uh-tee/
Reckless confidence that may be offensive. Brashness; reckless disregard of danger or unpleasant consequences.
The temerity of being a teen often leads to reckless behavior and sadness for parents.
118
temperance (n)
/TEM-puh-rense/
Self-restraint in the face of temptation; moderation. Abstinence from drinking alcohol.
The new coaching staff demanded temperance of the football team during the season.
119
tempest (n)
/TEM-pust/
A severe storm with high winds, rain, hail, or snow. A severe commotion or disturbance, especially with emotional upheaval.
The tempest of Jim and Stephanie's argument was embarrassing to those who witnessed it.
120
tenable (a)
/THE-nuh-bull/
Justified in a fair or rational way; defensible based on sufficient evidence.
Investors determined that further support of the company's owners was no longer tenable, so they approved a takeover.
121
tenacity (n)
/tuh-NA-suh-tee/
The quality of being unyielding; stubborn. The ability or tendency to stick firmly to a decision or opinion, without doubt or potential to change.
Marybeth's tentacity was evident when she played the entire season half with a broken arm.
122
tenet (n)
/TEH-nut/
A set of established and fundamental beliefs, especially related to religion or politics; a principle.
The tenet that "All politics is local" is one that few candidates forget.
123
tenuous (a)
/TEN-yoo-uss/
Not based on anything substantial or significant; liable to break down easily when challenged. Thin, diluted, or insubstantial.
124
terminus (n)
/TUR-mih-nus/
The end point of a fixed transportation route, such as the beginning and end of railroad or bus line. A point where something stops or reaches its end.
When developers learned that Maplewood would become the terminus for the new rail system to New your City, they began buying up properties quickly.
125
terra cotta (n)
/TARE-uh KAH-tuh/
Pottery of a distinctive reddish-brown, usually unglazed at least in part. The earthware clay used to make such pieces.
Native American pottery made of terra cotta has become very popular among collectors of late.
126
testimonial (n)
/TESS-tuh-moh-nee-yul/
A favorable report supporting the existence of a thing's qualities and virtues.
At the honors ceremony, Jane offered a testimonial to all the teachers who had done so much to help her achieve all that she had.
127
theism (n)
/THEE-ih-zum/
Belief in the divine, in the form of one or many gods. Usually, the belief that one god created the world and is still evident in the works of creation.
As early civilizations progressed, theism became prominent and the worshipping of idols largely disappeared.
128
Thespian (n)
/THESS-pee-un/
An actor, especially a person who performs onstage in a play.
Thespian is an old-fashioned term for an actor, but it is one that some performer prefer.
129
throng (n)
/THRONG/
A large crowd of persons or objects. Definitely not to be used or confused with thong.
Let's wait here for fifteen minutes to avoid the throng of people trying to get to their cars in the parking lot.
130
thwart (v)
/THWORT/
To oppose, confuse, or defeat. To keep someone from achieving their goals or plans.
Steve's plan to surprise his parents was thwarted when his little sister left their present out in the open.
131
tirade (n)
/TIE-raid/
A long, overblown, angry speech, most often a criticism or denunciation; an extended outburst of harsh talk.
Sadly, Frank had come to fear his wife's triades so much that he avoided coming home.
132
titillate (v)
/TIH-tuh-late/
To excite or stimulate someone in a pleasurable way.
Stories about rock star romances seems always to titillate, no matter how old the listeners.
133
tome (n)
/TOAM/
A thick or heavy book on a serious subject.
Aren't you lucky you are reading a short book on words, rather than a tome on the history of the English language?
134
tort (n)
/TOART/
In legal terms, a wrongful act for which damages can be sought by an injured party, Not to be confused with torte, a rich cake of many layers sandwiched together with cream filling.
135
totalitarian (a)
/toh-TA-luh-tare-yun/
Centralized, in terms of official government power. Describes a form of government in which control is concentrated in the hands of one ruler or party, with no opposition permitted.
The totalitarian state of the Soviet Union ultimately fell, decades after it was founded.
136
traduce (v)
/tra-DOOCE/
To lie and create false impressions in order to make something or someone seem shameful or bad.
Angry over one thing or another, Page traduced her sister so frequently that her parents had no intervene.
137
tranquil (a)
/TRAN-kwill/
Calm, quiet. Free of disturbance or commotion. Unagitated, with no signs of anxiety or agitation.
After years of looking for the best vacation location, the Burtons found their lake home to be the most tranquil place.
138
transfiguration (n)
/tranz-FIG-yoor-ay-shun/
A dramatic change in appearance, especially one that glorifies or exalts someone.
The popular make-over shows bring about physical and emotional transfigurations for their participants.
139
transgress (v)
/tranz-GRESS/
To cross a line and do something wrong, often disobeying a command, guideline, moral code, or law.
David transgressed by crossing into Mr. Ptereson's yard to play ball.
140
transliterate (v)
/tranz-LIT-uh-rate/
Literally, "to write across." To write words from other languages in a familiar alphabet.
Thank goodness the prayer book was transliterated, for they did not know how to read the Hebrew alphabet.
141
travail (v)
/truh-VALE/
To work hard, especially over a long period of time, at a physically demanding job.
Harriet travailed all the way through her chemotherapy, which some say is as painful as the illness.
142
treachery (n)
/TREH-chih-ree/
An act of betrayal or deceit; treason. A severe violation of trust.
Benedict Arnold's name has become synonymous with the words treachery and traitor.
143
treatise (n)
/TREE-tiss/
A scholarly, formal written work that deals extensively with a given subject.
A systematic essay or written argument on a particular subject. What you will be able to write once you incorporate these words into your vocabulary.
144
trepidation (n)
/trepidation/
Fear about the future or a particular future event.
A look of trepidation was visible on his mother's face whenJustin went for his first driving lesson.
145
Triage (n)
/TREE-ahj/
The process of prioritizing sick or injured people for treatment, according to severity and condition.
It was amazing to see how calmly triage was completed at the site of the train crash.
146
tribunal (n)
/trie-BYOO-nul/
A defence, usually unofficial, of the rights of an individual. Also a court or other form where justice is meted out.
The military tribunal was formed to judge those suspected of terrorist activities.
147
trite (a)
/TRYTE/
Overused; lacking in interest or originality. Something you do not want someone to say about your writing or speech.
Oh, how trite every interview with a political candidate sounds.
148
tryst (n)
/TRIST/
A prearranged meeting, especially one made privately or secretly between lovers.
Both were nervous planning their tryst, for they feared their affair would somehow be revealed.
149
tumult (n)
/tuh-MULT/
A violent, chaotic, or noisy commotion; an uproar. A psychological or emotional upheaval or agitation.
The tumult of having twenty two-year-olds in the house for a birthday party was too much for Lisa's mother to handle.
150
ultimatum (n)
/ul-tih-MAY-tum/
An expression that includes a demand along with the consequences, usually negative, of failing to meet the demands.
Either pay the rent by midnight on the thirty-first, or be thrown out in the street: that was Simon's ultimatum.
151
umbrage (n)
/UM-brij/
Resentment or annoyance arising from an offence; something or someone causing intense irritation.
Principal Michaels took umbrage at suggestion that he was only concerned with test scores, and not with students.
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Uncharted (a)
/UHN-chart-uhd/
Not surveyed or recorded on a map. Not previously encountered, experienced, or investigated.
Boldly but stupidly, the group decided to embark on uncharted waters in their small boat.
153
Unctuous (a)
/UNG-chwuhs/
Slippery and greasy; oily. Smug and obsequious in an attempt to charm or convince. Describes a texture that is soft and smooth, like an oil and ointment.
Mud baths may not be healing, but they can be soothing, and they are the most definitely unctuous.
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undaunted. (a)
/un-DAHN-tud/
Not put off or deterred by the prospect or even the likelihood of failure, loss, or defeat.
Undaunted, the underdog football team faced the state champions and almost won.
155
underhanded (a)
/un-dur-HAN-dud/
Secret and dishonest, with intention to deceive or cheat. Most underhanded people seek to get the upper hand any way they can.
His attempts to discredit his opponent with rumors and lies were definitely underhanded.
156
underling (n)
/UN-dur-ling/
A servant or subordinate, especially one regarded with contempt or as of little importance.
Robin was not Batman's underling; who was his crime-fighting partner.
157
underwrite (v)
/UN-dur-wryt/
To insure someone or something by accepting liability for losses. To guarantee the sale of an issue of securities at predetermined price.
The fledgling filmmakers asked parents and friends to underwrite their first feature film.
158
unflinching (a)
/un-FLIHN-ching/
Strong and unhesitating, especially in the face of difficulty
Mary's unflinching dedication to her children was evidenced by her holding two jobs.
159
unorthodox (a)
/un-OR-thuh-docks/
Not following conventional or traditional beliefs or practices.
Her teaching methods may be unorthodox, but they clearly get results, as all of her students passed the state exam.
160
utilitarian (a)
/yoo-tih-lih-TARE-ee-un/
Designed for practical use rather than beauty; pragmatic. Characterized by a concern for the practical or useful.
In selecting a car to buy, Hank took a utilitarian approach, rather than choosing the one that was flashiest or most likely to impress.
161
utopian (a)
/yoo-TOH-pee-yun/
Typical of an ideal world, a perfect state or place.
The utopian dreams described in literature of the early twentieth century did not translate into realities.
162
utterance (n)
/UH-ter-runts/
Something uttered or vocalized; a word or sound spoken aloud.
How proud they were that the baby's first utterances sounded like "Daddy,"
163
vacillate (v)
/VA-suh-late/
To be indecisive; waver between options. To sway from side to side.
Wishing not to vacillate on the issue, the mayor stood firm on his position not to raise the sale tax.
164
vacuous (a)
/VA-kyoo-uss/
Lacking in ideas. Having no content; empty-headed. That which is empty is vacuous.
Some politicians are vacuous, telling constituents what polls reveal are the most popular positions on particular issue.
165
vagary (n)
/VAY-guh-ree/
An unpredictable, impulsive action. A turn of events that is unexpected or capricious.
The vagaries of the teenage mind frustrates many parents, as well as teachers.
166
vanity (n)
/VA-hun-tee/
Excessive pride especially in one's appearance. Something considered futile, worthless, or empty of significance.
Her vanity was legendary, as she could not pass a mirror without gazing into it and admiring herself.
167
variance (n)
/VAY-reeunts/
A difference or variation. A difference of options or attitude.
The variance between the positions of management and labour was so strong that a strike was inevitable.
168
vehement (a)
/VEE-uh-ment/
Expressed with intense feelings and conviction. Strongly felt, or marked by high emotion.
In the 1960s, many expressed vehement dissatisfaction with the administration policy regarding the Vietnam conflict.
169
venerable (a)
/VEH-nnuh-ruh-bul/
Worthy of respect as a result of age wisdom holiness, or achievement. Dignified and worthy of admiration.
The venerable professor amazes everyone with his wisdom, sensitivity, and concern for students who are now sixty years younger than he.
170
verbiage (n)
/VER-bee-ij/
Excessive words with confusing or minimal significance. Unnecessary words or overwrought language.
Good teachers inspire students to eliminate verbiage from their writing and express themselves succinctly.
171
verbos (a)
/ver-BOCE/
Using language that is long-winded, unnecessary, or complicated; wordy.
I really wanted to vote for him, because he appears intelligent, but I find his speeches are almost always verbose.
172
veritable (a)
/VER-ih-tuh-bull/
Something that is good as true; authentic and real. Undeniably legitimate or actual. Synonymous with verifiable.
Granny's attic is a veritable museum of 1950s clothing, records, and memorabilia.
173
vernacular (n)
/ver-NAK-yoo-lur/
The everyday language of people as spoken in a particular country or region, in contrast to an official or formal language.
The vernacular of rap musicians is full of expletives and is becoming more commonly using in public places.
174
vex (v)
/VECKS/
To cause irritation. That which aggravates cause vexation.
The constance demands of her two-year-old vexed Mary to the point of tears.
175
vicarious (a)
/vi-KARE-ee-uss/
Experienced though another person, via sympathy or imagination. To gain pleasure from actions not one's own.
Parents often live vicarious lives though their children, and they do so with great pride.
176
vigilant (a)
/VIH-juh-lant/
Watchful and alert, especially to danger or wrongdoing.
The family retriever was ever vigilant and barked whenever a stranger came to near the house.
177
vilify (v)
/VIH-luh-fie/
To make malicious and abusive statements about someone. To make someone appear as a villain.
Even before the trial began, the accused murderer was vilified in the press, so the defence attorney asked for a change in venue.
178
vindication (n)
/VIN-dih-KAY-shun/
The act of clearing someone or something from blame, guilt, suspicion, or doubt.
Graduating cum laude from the school that had once rejected him was vindication for Robert.
179
virulence (n)
/VEER-yoo-lunts/
Rapid, extreme, and malicious, as in quick and fatal diseases.
The virulence of AIDS was shocking to physicians who did not know what was causing so many unexplained deaths.
180
visceral (a)
/VIH-suh-rul/
Instinctive, rather than based on reasoned thinking. Deeply felt; showing basic emotions.
Not fearing any injury to herself, her visceral response was to lash out at those who threatened her children.
181
vitriol (n)
/VIH-tree-ahl/
Extreme bitterness and hatred. Writing or speech that expresses this feeling in caustic or harsh writing or speech.
How sad it is that vitriol of all parties in the Middle Eastern conflict could not be transformed into hope.
182
vociferate (v)
/voh-SIH-fuh-rate/
To shout something out loudly; to make a noisy exclamation, demanding attention.
Susie vociferated her strong objection to her parent's insistence that the babysit for her two younger sisters.
183
voracious (a)
/voh-RAY-shuss/
Ravenously hungry. Desiring or consuming things in great quantities.
It is hoped that after you finish this English literature course you will become a voracious reader of Shakespeare.
184
wanton (a)
/WON-tun/
Without restraint or inhibition, especially in sexual behavior. Without reason or provocation.
Such wanton disrespect for the law could not be ignored or excused.
185
warrant (v)
/WAR-unt/
To authorize or guarantee. To serve as a justifiable reason to do, believe, or think something.
The child's minor accident did not really warrant the temper tantrum that followed it.
186
watershed (n)
/WAH-ter-shed/
An important event, period, time, or factor that serves to distinguish two separate phases.
High school commencement is a true watershed even in a young person's life.
187
wayward (a)
/WAY-word/
Wilfully disobedient.Behaving in an erratic, perverse, or unpredictable manner.
Your wayward actions will cause you much pain, so please try to change your ways.
188
wearisome (a)
/WE-ree-sum/
Physically or mentally tiring or tedious. Not to be misused or confused with worrisome, which means causing anxiety or distress, or having a tendency to worry.
Of course I found the 10K run wearisome, wou;d not you?
189
whimsy (n)
/WIMM-zee/
The quality of being quaint, odd, and playfully humorous in an endearing way.
The idea of winning the lottery is for many simple whimsy, yet they buy a ticket each week.
190
whitewash (v)
/WITE-wash/
An attempt to conceal unpleasant facts by covering them over as though they did not exist.
How absurd his stories became whenever Brian attempted to whitewash his guilt.
191
wily (a)
/WHY-lee/
Skilled at using clever tricks to deceive people.
You shouldn't confuse "wily" with "intelligent," for deceiving others isn't really a smart thing to do.
192
winnow (v)
/WIH-noh/
To examine closely in order to separate the good from the bad, unusable, or undesirable components.
Investigators winnowed through thousands of pieces to reconstruct the plan and determine factors that caused the crash.
193
woebegone (a)
/WOE-buh-gone/
Feeling or looking distressed or sorrowful.
Please, Coach, go talk to the teach, for they look so woebegone after the loss.
194
wreak (v)
/REEK/
To inflict something violent, especially punishment or revenge.
It is shocking to see how much havoc a two-year-old can wreak in just a few minutes.
195
writhe (v)
/RYTHE/
To make a violent twisting and rolling movement, often as a result of severe pain.
The running back writhed in agony as he waited for the trainer to arrive.
196
xenophobe (n)
/ZEE-nuh-fobe/
Someone with an unreasonable fear or dislike of foreign people or foreign things.
Those who express concerns about the country's liberal immigration and open borders policies are regularly called xenophobes by those who oppose their views.
197
yahoo (n)
/YA-hoo/
No just an Internet portal-this word refers to an offensive, crude, or brutalise person, a bumpkin.
You shouldn't let yourself get upset by the cruel comments of yahoos like those guys.
198
yeoman (n)
/YOE-mun/
An attendant, servant, or lesser official in a royal or noble household. A petty officer performing chiefly clerical duties in the U.S. Navy. An assistant or subordinate.
All organizations need some who perform the roles of a yeoman, completing administrative tasks.
199
yuppie (n)
/YUH-pee/
A young, educated city-dwelling professional, usually regarded as materialistic and self-focused.
Do you remember when being called "yuppie" was a compliment?
200
zealous (a)
/ZEH-lus/
Actively and unreservedly enthusiastic; fervent or fanatical.
At first those students named to the hall patrol seemed overly zealous, giving summonses to almost everyone.
201
zenith (n)
/ZEH-nith/
The highest point or climax of a thing or event. The people or apex
It's hard to predict the zenith of an athlete's career, but it is easy to identify in hindsight.
202
zymurgy (n)
/ZIMM-ur-jee/
The scientific study of the brewing and distilling fermentation process.
No, I won't accept your excuse for drinking
