To make another feel ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, or humiliated.
To make someone feel uncomfortable, including yourself, or to cause someone to lose composure. (Hey, isn’t that the definition of what people do in junior high?)
Traditionally, high school athletes abash new team members; some call it rookie or freshmen hazing.
To put an end to, diminish, or reduce something in intensity. To lessen or weaken another thing.
With a zit on your face, you may fear that your potential to date will rapidly abate.
To formally give up a position or responsibility; commonly, refers to royalty renouncing the throne. To step down from a high government office or other powerful position. “You’re abdicating your responsibilities” may be a fancy phrase you’ve heard from Mom, Dad, or the principal.
King Edward VIII, as you may know, abdicated the throne rather than give up the woman he loved.
A departure (usually temporary) from what is normal, desirable, or expected; divergence from a moral standard; deviation from a customary, natural course of action. Also a defect in a lens or mirror that causes a distorted image. A fancy way to say something strange.
Justin’s one bad grade seemed to be an aberration given his history of strong academic performance.
To assist someone in an activity that is probably illegal. To encourage or assist with a plan or activity, as in the case of an accomplice to a robbery. Yes, it’s easier to say help, but it doesn’t sound as impressive.
You often hear the phrase “aid and abet” on crime shows like Law and Order.
To find something or someone loathsome, contemptible, reprehensible, or repulsive. While it rhymes with adore, this word means quite the opposite.
Many abhor reality shows that feature plastic surgery because they find the visual images detestable and the topic contemptible.
To patiently wait or tolerate. To abide is to endure; to bear or accept a person or condition; to withstand or persevere. In the old days, it meant to live or reside in a place; one would “abide” in an “abode.” While you may abide someone or something, you really don’t want that person or thing by your side.
Sitters can only abide the constant whining of misbehaving children for so long before they threaten to call their parents.
Allowing no hope of improvement or relief. In a state of hopelessness, destitution, or resignation. Describes the most miserable kind of situation; the most wretched or degraded person or thing. Can also mean extremely humble, as in an apology or request. Rather than feeling pity, some might object to an abject thing or person.
Many spring break partiers are not aware that in many Caribbean countries, abject poverty is often found side-by-side with luxury hotels, spas, and resort properties.
To renounce, repudiate, or give up one’s previously held beliefs. To solemnly swear off or recant. Busted teens abjure (even if they don’t know it) when they swear they’ll give up their troubled ways and be good forever.
When taking the U.S. oath of citizenship, one must abjure allegiance to any other nation.
An act of ceremonial washing or cleansing, usually religious, as in a priest’s hands during Mass. Can also refer to any cleansing, purification, or purging.
Getting pushed into the gym pool and yelling “Holy cow, that’s cold!” doesn’t count as an ablution.
To renounce something or deny it to yourself, in particular something considered vital or important, such as food in the case of a hunger strike. To give up, as in rights or claims.
Stephanie abnegated fried food and soda before the prom, hoping to fit into her newly purchased dress.
Indigenous or native; something that existed first, or an area’s first inhabitants. Used in reference to the Aborigines of Australia. The root “original” is part of this word and communicates much of the meaning of “aboriginal.”
In most cases, aboriginal people sadly have little or no say in issues related to their original homeland.
Failing to reach completion; unsuccessful or fruitless.
Apollo 13 was the most famous abortive mission of the U.S. space program.
To wear away, rub off, or erode through friction. To break or wear down in a spiritual sense. Over time, a wood post will abrade a braided rope.
In the past, revelations about infidelity abraded voter support for candidates, but now such character traits don’t seem that important.
To formally (and with authority) repeal or cancel something, such as an agreement or a contract. To take official action leading to such an end. To abrogate a bad deal early or late is just as great.
The two business partners agreed to abrogate their contract after they discovered their venture was no longer profitable.
To run away secretly, often to avoid arrest or criminal charges, and hide yourself. Absconding with funds isn’t fun; it’s a crime, so you’ll do the time.
The plan was to rob the jewelry store, abscond to a safe location, and later fence the goods.
To publicly or formally pronounce someone guiltless and blameless. To release someone from any responsibility for an alleged misdeed or, for a priest, to forgive them of sins. When a crime is solved, some are absolved, while the guilty parties are arrested or jailed.
Over the objections of the district attorney, the judge absolved the accused of all charges.
Not overindulgent in food or drink; moderate in terms of consumption. The abstemious abstain, and as a result, weigh less.
In these days of conspicuous consumption, it is harder to find individuals following an abstemious lifestyle.
Obscure, complex, and difficult to comprehend. Refers to something that requires special effort to grasp. Many high school students find parents to be abstruse.
After the first few classes, Jack thought calculus was an abstruse collection of abstract ideas, and at the end of the semester, he realized his initial impressions were correct.
Without accompaniment from musical instruments, usually in reference to singing, often in a rhythmic and inventive vocal style. Don’t try out to be the pianist for an a capella group, because you won’t get the job.
Singing groups are so popular at that college that every weekend brings at least one a capella concert.
To give consent or agree to something. To attain or formally accept a high position, or to be party to an international agreement or treaty.
It is the policy of the U.S. government to never accede to the demands of terrorists.
To make a feature of something more noticeable. To put emphasis on a syllable, word, or phrase. To strengthen or heighten the effect of something. Comedians sometimes accentuate accents to get laughs.
The architects determined that large bay windows would accentuate the colonial style of the new home.
An expression of high praise and esteem. Acknowledgement, praise, and public recognition of an achievement.
Students who enroll in Ivy League schools usually have a history of accolades and academic achievements.
Accolade— In medieval times, men were knighted in a ceremony called the accolata (from the Latin ac, “at,” and collum, “neck”), named for the hug around the neck received during the ritual, which also included a kiss and tap of a sword on the shoulder.
From accolata, we get the English word accolade for an award or honor.
To gather over a period of time; accumulate or grow. To realize an increase or accumulation by gradual means. A crew can accrue possessions in a week, or maybe two.
Money held in a bank will accrue interest over time.
Passive agreement without objection. Assent or compliance with another’s demands. A fancy way to say, “No problem, man.”
Being a physician requires complete acquiescence to the intellectual and emotional demands of the career, from the first day of medical school onward.
Strong and bitter in smell or taste. Unpleasantly pungent to the smell or taste. Can also describe a bitter tone or harsh verbal exchange. Acid would smell acrid, and harsh words do stink.
Her anger was released in the acrid remarks she hurled at her father.
Bitter, angry, or filled with resentment. Used to describe mean-spirited or ill-natured language or exchanges that are filled with animosity. “Acrid” and “acrimonious” have the same first three letters as well as similar meanings.
Acrimonious marriages cause stress and anxiety for all involved and inevitably end in divorce.
A word that is formed from the initials or other parts of several words, such as NATO (for “North Atlantic Treaty Organization”).
GIGO is an acronym that computer programmers created to stand for the phrase “garbage in, garbage out.”
An irrational fear of high places, characterized by feelings of dread, danger, and helplessness.
It’s almost impossible to find a roofer with acrophobia, at least one who isn’t unemployed.
Quick insight. Also, the ability to make fast, accurate evaluations or judgments about people, situations, or things.
Laurie was said to have great business acumen because every venture she became involved in quickly turned a profit.
Extremely serious, painful, sharp, shrewd, perceptive, or severe. Keenly perceptive, intellectual, and sensitive to details. Also used in reference to a disease that is severe and quick to crisis.
Most teenage girls have acute skills when it comes to identifying a cute boy; it’s like a form of radar.
A short traditional saying that expresses something accepted as a general truth. Examples of these brief, commonly accepted expressions include “A stitch in time saves nine” and “Actions speak louder than words.”
Though it is a cliché, athletes are fond of quoting the adage, “We’ll take one game at a time.”
Very determined and not influenced by appeals to reconsider or change one’s mind. Stubborn and unyielding. Most adolescents are adamant that they are right and that everyone else, particularly parents, is WRONG!
Despite the concerns of his parents, Steve was adamant about not attending college after graduating from high school.
Something added, or a supplement to a book or magazine. If you are addin’ ’em, it’s an addendum.
No matter how thorough the committee’s report was, someone always wanted to suggest an addendum.
Highly proficient, skilled, or expert.
The league’s most valuable player was adept at hitting home runs, particularly with men on base late in the game.
Set up in response to a particular situation or problem; not focused on general issues. Formed for immediate or specific need. From the Latin meaning “for this purpose.”
As a response to student concerns, an ad hoc committee was formed to investigate the current dress code.
Forever, or for so long as to seem endless. This Latin phrase translates as “to infinity.” Can be used to describe some lectures given by parents or teachers.
After reading an initial draft of the speech, the candidate’s aide commented that the speech rambled on ad infinitum, and so it was thoroughly edited.
To reach a judicial decision. To use an official procedure to hear and settle a case, usually within a legal setting. A judge tried the case, so he could adjudicate.
Those on the Supreme Court adjudicate only the most difficult cases and only those with constitutional implications.
Endowed with physical or mental skills. Ingenious, nimble, expert, or skillful; adept at accomplishing a goal.
Michael Jordan, a supremely adroit basketball player, wasn’t nearly as skilled when he played minor league baseball.
Sensitive to or appreciative of art or beauty. Relating to aesthetics, the branch of philosophy that examines the nature of beauty.
The aesthetic qualities of the house didn’t match the high price its sellers were asking, for it was rather simple and unassuming.
A natural attraction or inherent similarity between two people or things. To be similar in structure or closely connected, as with ideas or concepts.
Dr. Seuss’s affinity for rhyming words resulted in much happiness for several generations of children.
To increase the size, scope, power, wealth, status, or influence of someone or something. To make someone or something appear bigger or better, often through exaggerated praise. You can aggrandize a guy’s ego to a grand size.
The boxer Muhammad Ali was known to aggrandize his own abilities, just before pulverizing his opponents.
Related by blood. Similar or closely related to someone or something; related by common features or qualities. A “kin” is “akin” to a family member.
Jodi’s constant exaggerations were akin to lies, but she believed they were just embellishments.
Promptness; eager and speedy readiness. Action characterized by speed and politeness.
Mark’s alacrity when a call came for help was always appreciated.
To calm a strong emotion like anger, fear, or suspicion. To relieve, ease, or reduce pain or painful feelings.
The CEO met with the entire staff to allay their fears regarding possible layoffs and firings.
To refer to someone or something without using a name or identification, while still making clear who or what is being referenced. To make passing reference. Sometimes it’s best to allude to a dude, but not use his name, for it would be crude.
Politicians often allude to their “esteemed opponent”, and everyone knows exactly who they mean.
Behavior or attitude that is unselfish and intended for the welfare of others. The belief that acting for the benefit of others is good.
It is very gratifying to see that wealthy individuals can display altruism as well as business acumen.
To combine two or more groups into a whole, or to join multiple things together to form a unified unit. In technical terms, to alloy or unite a metal with mercury.
Anticipating that the two departments would soon amalgamate, the members held several strategic planning meetings.
The typical atmosphere, feeling, or mood of a place.
The new restaurant became popular for its ambiance as well as for its food and drink.
Able to use the left or right hand with equal skill.
While it appeared she was naturally ambidextrous, her ability to shoot jump shots with either hand came only after years of practice.
Ambidextrous— This word combines two Latin roots: ambi-, meaning “both,” and dexter, meaning “right.” The word therefore implies that being ambidextrous gives you two right hands, as the right hand has long been thought to be superior to the left. You might think of this word as the complete opposite of saying someone has two left feet, an expression for clumsiness.
Uncertain, with mixed or conflicted feelings. Of two minds regarding a potential course of action.
Although he was ambivalent about both candidates, when election day came Gregory made his choice and cast his ballot.
To walk leisurely and slowly in a relaxed manner; to saunter or stroll.
Some tourists amble up and down the boardwalk in Atlantic City, while others remain firmly in one seat, playing blackjack.
To improve or upgrade. To make better or put right. When an unacceptable state of affairs is changed for the better, it is said to have been ameliorated.
The marriage counselor’s attempts to ameliorate conflicts between the Smiths were welcomed, but, unfortunately, they were not successful.
Agreeable to suggestions; likely to cooperate; accountable for actions. Parents and teachers would like high school students to be amenable.
Students were amenable to a new dress code if they were asked to give input when it was being decided.
To formally change a document in order to improve or correct. To rectify or improve upon. To alter in face of new circumstances or information. If I amend, I mend the broken and make it better.
Representative Smith’s expertise surfaced when she was asked to amend the appropriations bill in ways amenable to members of both parties.
A useful, attractive, or pleasant feature. A service, manner, or feature that gives pleasure or satisfaction.
No longer satisfied with a minor amenity like a mint on the pillow, frequent guests at five-star hotels demand much more.
Pleasant and friendly; cordial, with a happy disposition, and easy to get along with.
My friend Amy is able to get along with everyone because she is amiable.
Without any clear shape or structure; formless. Vague or poorly defined.
The editor found the manuscript an amorphous collection of ideas, scenes, and characters, and not yet a well-crafted novel.
Something out of place because it is from a different period of time. A person, idea, or action that belongs to a different time in history. Something or someone in the wrong historical or chronological setting.
Shakespeare was famous for surprising readers and audiences with anachronisms, like clock chimes during the days of Julius Caesar, well before the invention of such timepieces.
A word or phrase spelled from the rearranged letters of another word or phrase: “no more stars” is an anagram of astronomers.
Anagrams can be used as memory devices and can also be enjoyed as fascinating word puzzles.
Similar to another person, idea, or thing; as in ideas or concepts, possessed of similarities that would allow an analogy to be made among them. Also used to describe body parts or organs with equivalent functions.
For athletes in sports such as water polo or gymnastics, winning an Olympic gold medal is analogous to winning the Super Bowl or the World Series.
The absence of any system of government. A disordered, chaotic, and uncontrolled situation. A description of most high school boys’ locker rooms and bedrooms.
Too often, the presence of a substitute teacher leads to anarchy in the classroom.
Someone or something that is greatly disliked, detested, or shunned. Someone or something cursed, denounced, or excommunicated by a religious authority.
The events of the Holocaust are anathema to all moral and civilized human beings.
In a position of secondary or lesser importance; subordinate. Responsible for providing support or performing support duties. My Aunt Hillary is ancillary to my mom, but I still listen to her.
Those who serve in ancillary roles are often unsung heroes and deserving of more kudos than they regularly receive.
A short personal account of an interesting incident or event. Often confused with antidote, which is a medical remedy.
Steve had a gift for telling simple anecdotes in a way that was wildly funny.
Intense hostility toward a person or thing, usually taking the form of action. A bitter dislike directed at something or someone.
Clyde’s first few months on the job were fine, but after he was transferred to a new department he came to harbor real animosity toward his supervisor.
Something that deviates from the norm or from expectations; a seemingly abnormal example.
It seems an anomaly when a college athlete is also recognized for academic performance.
Pertaining to the period preceding a war, in particular the American Civil War. From the Latin for “before the war.”
For those once held in slavery, the antebellum period was not to be remembered with fond or romantic thoughts of Southern traditions.
The thing that happened or existed before the thing or idea in question. A preceding trend, idea, fashion, or event.
The military Humvee all-terrain vehicle was the antecedent of the consumer vehicle so popular today.
Anger, hostility, and aversion directed toward a particular person or thing. The object of someone’s anger, hostility, or disgust.
His antipathy toward animals originated from an attack he experienced as a youth.
Ancient history, especially ancient Greek or Roman civilization. Antiquities are decorative, valuable, or interesting objects that dates from ancient times.
Museums display the treasures of antiquity for all to enjoy.
The exact opposite of an idea, characteristic, or concept; a proposal that is the opposite of another idea already proposed. A word or phrase that contrasts with another to create a balanced effect. Parents are often the antithesis of cool.
Early in the season, the young quarterback seemed the antithesis of an MVP because he threw so many interceptions.
A succinct saying that expresses an opinion or a general truth. A concise summation of opinion or wisdom, such as “People who live in glass houses should not throw stones, nor should they get dressed in their living rooms.”
Aphorisms may seem oversimplified to some, but when you think about it, their basic wisdom is often quite striking.
Confidence, skill, and poise in difficult or challenging situations. Remaining calm around a bomb is a sure sign of aplomb.
The entire family handled the difficult period of the memorial service and funeral with aplomb.
Probably not true, but widely believed to be so. Generally accepted or repeated as fact, though excluded from the official version of events. A story that is fabricated long after the fact is considered apocryphal. Did George Washington really have “a pocket full” after chopping down the cherry tree?
It is hard to believe that some still think that the Apollo missions, with men landing on the moon, are apocryphal.
An apparently supernatural vision or being, as in a spirit or ghost. Anything that appears strange, quickly and unexpectedly, as though supernatural.
Bob’s quick appearances at breakfast, as he rushed off to school, caused his parents to jokingly call him an apparition.
To give notice to someone about something. To bring up to date or inform. Bill was excited when he was apprised he won a prize.
The teacher promised she would apprise all class members of their semester grades as soon as possible.
Appropriate in a particular situation; relevant and fitting. From the French for “to the purpose.”
Stan’s parents did not think jeans apropos for his sister’s wedding ceremony.
Someone with the authority to settle a dispute or decide an issue. Someone with great influence over what others think, say, or do.
If arguments between two persons cannot be resolved, an arbiter is sometimes called in to solve them.
Based solely on personal wishes, feelings, or perceptions, not on objective facts, reasons, or principles. Chosen or determined at random. Decided on discretion of an individual judge or court, rather than any pre-existing rule or law.
Lynne thought her parents’ rules about dating were truly arbitrary, for they were not like any her friends had to follow.
Passionate, or full of great enthusiasm or eagerness. Emotionally intense and devoted. Hot, or glowing brightly.
Ryan was an ardent supporter of his school’s lacrosse team; he went to every home and away game each season.
Difficult, requiring continuous effort and hard work. Challenging to travel, endure, or overcome.
Exam period was arduous, to say the least, even for the most dedicated students.
To assign cause to a person or thing; to give responsibility to a particular person for creation of something. To identify someone or something as belonging to a particular group.
While there was no name on the paper, the teacher was able to ascribe it to Mark, for his writing style was quite distinctive.
False accusation; slander; a statement that attacks someone’s character or reputation.
Angry individuals are likely to cast aspersions on the targets of their hostility.
A strong desire to achieve something; a motivating goal or ambition. In a technical sense, it is the suction of fluids or gases from the body, or the drawing of matter into the lungs along with the breath.
Most Little Leaguers have aspirations to become famous major league baseball stars.
Careful and constant in terms of the attention paid to something; diligent and persistent.
The author was assiduous in his efforts to complete the manuscript by the deadline.
To state that something exists or is true or valid, especially in a formal written statement. To make a firm assertion regarding the validity of a statement, idea, or claim.
The prosecutor attested over and over that the defendant was guilty of murder.
Brazen, daring, or fearless. Bold, unrestrained, or uncompromising, especially in terms of behavior that challenges conventions.
The audacious behavior of the fans almost caused the team to be penalized and have to forfeit the game.
To increase in growth, size, strength, loudness, or scope.
To finish the remodeling job, the foreman said he would augment his crew as well as the pool of bulldozers on site.
The support, encouragement, permission, or patronage of a person or organization. Not to be confused or misused with the next word, auspicious.
Doctors and nurses were able to travel safely throughout the war zone under the auspices of the Red Cross.
Marked by lucky signs or good omens, with the promise of success. Full of encouragement, hope, or reason for optimism, often describing the beginning of an activity or event.
Everyone in attendance agreed that it was an auspicious sign that the clouds parted and the sun shone just fifteen minutes before the commencement ceremony was scheduled to begin.
Self-disciplined or strict to a high degree. Somber and self-controlled, without ornamentation, self-indulgence, decoration, or luxury.
To the surprise of many, the austere town librarian had bequeathed more than a million dollars to the local college.
Politically independent; self-governing, with ability to make decisions. Free from restraint, control, or regulation.
It is thought that autonomous leaders have the potential to become dictators, so checks and balances were written into the Constitution.
Artistically innovative, experimental, or unconventional. Used to describe members of the intelligentsia (such as writers, artists, musicians, or film makers).
It was hard for the untrained eye to determine if the art in the new museum was avant-garde, or just bad.
Unreasonably strong desire for money and riches. Extreme greed.
Some believe that avarice drove the recent corporate wrongdoings, which resulted in several CEOs being tried and convicted of crimes.
A frank and open admission or statement. An open declaration; an unconcealed confession.
The teachers’ avowal of support for the students accused of cheating shocked almost everyone in the school.
A statement or idea accepted as self-evident, requiring no proof. A basic proposition of a system that, although unproven, needs no proof, yet is used to prove other propositions. Common in scientific or mathematic theory, but used to describe any logically related series of thoughts or hypotheses.
“A straight line is the shortest distance between two points” is an axiom for both mathematicians and travelers.
The degree bestowed upon completion of a course of undergraduate college study (bachelor’s degree). Also a farewell address to a graduating class.
I received my baccalaureate in 1975 from the University of Pennsylvania, but my education truly began at commencement.
Senseless or nonsense talking or writing; a ridiculous, senseless, or worthless idea or suggestion.
How embarrassing for your favorite English teacher to call your essay balderdash!
To exchange, trade, or pass words or blows. To exchange witticisms or insults.
The two brothers were known to bandy both words and loving punches, but they never came to serious blows.
Ruinous or destructive; capable of spoiling or causing utter destruction. Deadly and likely to cause ruin.
The baneful influence of gangs on their young members is without question.
Wet, dirty, unkempt, or in a general condition of disarray. She was so bedraggled she looked like she’d been dragged from bed just seconds before.
When the campers returned from three days in the woods, they were bedraggled and tired, but happy.
To confuse or perplex, mystify, or confuse. To make someone inebriated and/or unable to think clearly.
The absent-minded professor’s lectures so befuddled his students that they were quickly as confused as he was.
To father, as in a child; to cause or inspire the existence of something.
Despite the term’s biblical overtones, it is correct to say that the first edition of my book begat the second edition.
Late or tardy; delayed after the specified time. Past due, often too late to be effective.
Belated gifts and good wishes should be graciously received and appreciated, though this is hard for some to do.
To harass someone and make them feel embattled and under pressure. To constantly confront with obstacles. To besiege (surround with an army).
With the crowd becoming more and more unruly, the beleaguered umpires finally called the game.
Ready or inclined to quarrel, fight, or go to war. Warlike or hostile in manner or temperament.
It is ominous when leaders engage their nations in bellicose behavior, for little good can come of such actions.
Ready to start a war or fight; hostile, aggressive, or pugnacious. Describes participants in a war or fight.
Football players, especially those who play on defense, often psych themselves into a belligerent state prior to each game.
Confused, puzzled, preoccupied, and unable to think clearly; bewildered, perplexed, or lost in reflection. You can be amused and bemused if confused.
College students often appear bemused right before an exam, for they are focusing intently on their studies.
A formal blessing or expression of good wishes. A prayer at the end of a service that asks for God’s blessing.
After the benediction, the congregation would meet for lunch and then work on community service projects.
Kind or full of good will. Motivated by charity rather than desire to profit. From the Latin for “well wishing.”
The benevolent behavior of the wealthy sometimes appears insincere when it is publicized widely.
To leave personal property to someone after death by means of a will. To hand down something from one generation to another. Bea bequeathed her teeth after she died.
Steve had always hoped that his grandfather would bequeath him his classic 1965 Mustang convertible.
To beg or ask earnestly. To entreat, implore, or request forcefully.
The students beseeched the teacher to delay the quiz until the next day, as most were not prepared.
To swindle or cheat. To defraud a person or institution of funds or goods. To escape from someone or manage to lose a pursuer.
The swindler denied that he had ever bilked any person of money or property.
Composed of two parts and elements; of or pertaining to two. Describes a number system that only uses the two digits zero and one.
It is truly amazing to think that all computer software programming has evolved from a binary number system, giving zero and one the power to change the world.
Not worried about something, often because of previous experience. Unimpressed; bored.
Much to the surprise of her classmates, Cindy was blasé about being named to be the commencement speaker.
To talk nonsense in an inane manner and at great length. To gabble or talk ridiculously. People who blabber until they lather are said to blather.
While there are no warning labels on bottles of beer, people should be warned that overindulging in alcohol can cause one to blather, leading to embarrassment and the need for many apologies.
To beat repeatedly with a heavy object. To bully or coerce someone into doing something against their will. There’s no doubt that there would be blood on Jon if he were bludgeoned.
Forensic experts determined that the victim was bludgeoned with a baseball bat by someone over six feet tall and weighing about 200 pounds.
To speak loudly, arrogantly, and boisterously. To behave in a bullying way. To blow in loud gusts, as in the wind.
Senators filibuster while bullies bluster, and both verbal strategies yield little action.
Someone, often an artist or writer, who does not live according to conventions of society. Denotes a lifestyle free of mainstream concerns.
According to Jim, he was a bohemian; according to his parents, he was just lazy, unkempt, and lacking in ambition.
Bohemian — This word was first used during the Middle Ages to mean a gypsy or vagabond. At that time, many mistakenly believed gypsy tribes came from the ancient kingdom of Bohemia (now the Czech Republic). Bohemian came to be synonymous with a poor writer or artist thanks to French novelist Henri Murger’s stories in Scènes de la vie de bohème (1848), the book that inspired Puccini’s opera La Bohème.
Speech or writing full of long and pretentious words, usually meant to impress others. Haughty, overblown, or pompous language. A verbal bomb blast of long words is a bombast.
The senatorial candidate did not instill confidence in voters, for his announcement speech seemed little more than bombast.
Bombast — Originally, this word referred to a cotton used as a padding or stuffing for clothes, derived from the word bombyx, for “silkworm” or “silk,” which was used for cotton as well. Just as stuffing or padding in clothing was called bombast so, eventually, was padded, stuffed, inflated, grandiose speech.
Authentic, actual, or genuine. Not deceptive; indisputably legitimate.
Mr. and Mrs. Stevens bought a painting at a garage sale for $50, and they later found it to be a bona fide masterpiece worth $50,000.
Crass, insensitive, ill-mannered, and offensive. Lacking in social graces. Boars are pigs, as are boors.
Fraternity boys are notorious for boorish behavior.
To remove parts of a work of literature considered objectionable, indecent, or offensive. Coined after Thomas Bowdler, who published an expurgated edition of Shakespeare in 1818.
The editor bowdlerized the author’s first draft to make the book marketable to a broader audience.
Someone who makes overexaggerated claims or empty boasts. Also, empty boasts and swaggering self-aggrandizement. Braggarts, dolts all, are acting with braggadocio.
Fighters who can back up their boasts are not simply full of braggadocio, but they are still often controversial.
Braggadocio — In his epic poem The Faerie Queene, Edmund Spenser (1552–1599) gave the name Braggadochio to a loudmouthed braggart who was revealed as a coward. The word came to refer to any braggart and finally also to mean empty or loud boasting.
To wave something, especially a weapon, in a threatening or menacing way. To wave something in defiance, as a warning of potential future harm, or out of pride, as a sign of status.
The hockey player suddenly, without warning, brandished his stick and skated toward the frightened crowd.
Real or pretended display of courage. An open display of boldness. Brave Otto proved ultimately to be most courageous, with strong bravado.
The mayor’s swaggering attitude of bravado was of little help when the town was finally attacked.
Short or brief in duration. Economical use of words in writing or speech. “Briefly” defines brevity.
Brevity, combined with the use of the very best words, is the mark of a quality essay.
Abrupt, blunt, short, or curt in manner or speech. Impatient (and showing it).
Her brusque actions appeared unfriendly at first, but later they were perceived as honest and sincere.
Something that causes fear, annoyance, trouble, worry, or dismay. An imagined threat or problem. To those with arachnophobia, a bug causes fear, and the word “boo” causes worry, so both are bugaboos.
Not swimming for an hour after eating seemed a bugaboo to him, rather than good advice.
An administrative system, especially in government, that organizes work into categories and departments. The people hired to work within such a system. An organization operated by a hierarchy of officials, often characterized by adherence to routine and lack of innovation.
The student government turned into an inefficient bureaucracy, not a group representing the interests of its constituents.
A deliberately false report, rumor, or fabrication intended as a joke. Also, a small projection like a wing near the nose of an airplane. It’s only a silly rumor that April 1 will be named Canard Day.
Wally’s story about how the dog ate his paper was clearly a canard, but the teacher took pity and accepted the excuse.
Canard — In French, canard means “duck.” Its meaning of “a ridiculously false story” comes from the French expression vendre un canard à moitié, literally, “to sell half a duck.” The expression means to make a fool out of a buyer, or anyone else, with a false story.
Honesty, directness, and openness. Freedom from prejudice or bias. Purity of heart; lack of malicious feelings. A lack of equivocation or doubletalk.
Politicians who speak with candor are an endangered species, one that is nearly extinct.
To surrender according to specific conditions. To accede to demands. To give in to an argument, request, or pressure. To capitulate early or late still means to give in to demands or debate.
Finally, after long hours of discussion, the parents’ committee did capitulate and allow the Junior Prom to take place — though under very specific guidelines.
Unpredictable, impulsive; prone to making sudden unplanned changes. That fool, who thinks he’s cool, may be capricious if without thinking he jumps in the pool.
Given his capricious approach to life, it is not surprising that Andrew never settled into one field of employment.
Always finding fault and making trivial and excessive criticisms. Intending to confuse someone in an argument. You’ve known people like this, and you just didn’t have the right word to describe them — now you do!
The stereotypical, nagging mother-in-law is captious to an extreme, and teens tend to think that their parents are as well.
A drawing, description, or other depiction that exaggerates someone’s characteristics. An inappropriate and ridiculous version of an attempt to do something. It takes a character to draw a caricature, but these words are not the same.
Political cartoons always show a candidate’s caricature, magnifying a nose, ears, smile, or particular body or head shape.
Permission given to someone to do entirely as they wish. French for “blank document,” signifies the freedom to write one’s own ticket without restrictions. Carte Blanche was the name of an old credit card, and if someone gave you carte blanche to use it, the bill would likely be huge.
The homeowners gave carte blanche to the talented interior decorator, knowing their new room would be beautiful as well as expensive.
A group of companies or individuals formed to control production, competition, and prices of a certain product or good. A political alliance among parties or groups with common goals. You would care if there were a car cartel, for it would control the automobile industry.
The oil cartel has for many years controlled the world’s energy prices and sought to influence political developments as well.
A social class whose boundaries are defined by strong hereditary and cultural ties. In some cultures, notably in India, applies to a system that divides people into classes according to the family into which they are born.
While people in some Hindu countries are born into a certain caste, some believe that financial castes exist in all societies.
Something that increases the rate of a chemical reaction. Something or someone that makes a change happen or initiates a process or event. A person or thing that sets off new events.
Together, alcohol and automobiles serve as catalysts for trouble among teenagers.
A problem whose only solution is eliminated by some characteristic of the problem itself. A situation that is illogical and self-contradictory and, often, that presents a hidden trap.
The absent-minded professor created a catch-22 for the teaching assistant by requiring him to be certified before taking on any students while also refusing to grant the certification until he had experience teaching students.
Catch-22 — The phrase comes from Joseph Heller’s 1961 novel of the same name. In this story of American pilots in Italy during World War II, the catch was this. If you were crazy, you could get out of flying any more dangerous combat missions just by asking. However, asking not to fly any more dangerous missions showed that you were clearly sane, which meant you had to fly them.
An experience or feeling of spiritual or emotional release arising from an intense experience. A release of repressed emotions that identifies and relieves related feelings and confusions. A cleansing of the mind or soul preceded by amazing insight. A fancy way to say emotional release.
Characters in many novels undergo a catharsis after dramatic or traumatic experiences, thereby revealing much to readers.
Corrosive or capable of burning. Acidic; able to eat away at something else. Used to describe sharp and malicious speech.
Jane’s caustic speech caused all the members to reexamine their support of her candidacy.
Arrogant, with disregard or lack of respect for someone or something. Unconcerned about things considered important; nonchalant, especially in regard to serious matters. As a noun, interestingly enough, this word defines a gallant or chivalrous gentleman, especially one who is escorting a lady, although the adjective describes almost the opposite.
The lacrosse player’s cavalier attitude toward school may someday interfere with his dream of playing the sport in college.
To raise objections based on small and unimportant points; to find fault on trivial matters or raise petty objections. Hey, to no avail, parents who cavil will find fault, no matter how small.
Laura caviled about the length of her altered skirt, but she later realized that the extra quarter-inch made no difference.
Severe criticism; an official show of disapproval or blame. A formal rebuke or stern condemnation. Watch out for words that are close but not at all the same: A censor is someone who examines, judges, and controls the content of films, plays, or writings; and a sensor is a device capable of detecting and responding to movement, light, or heat.
Censure is less severe than impeachment, but elected officials should take care to avoid both.
A stop, pause, interruption, or permanent discontinuation. An end to something; the reaching of a point of conclusion.
The substitute teacher prayed for a cessation of the rude behavior in his classroom.
A feeling of humiliation due to disappointment. Humiliation, embarrassment, or disappointment; anxiety about oneself. Chagrin does not mean that “she grin”; more appropriate would be a grimace or frown.
Much to the chagrin of his family and friends, Suzanne rejected Bill’s proposal.
Possessing great charm or influence, with a special quality of leadership, authority, confidence, and overall appeal. Also used to describe Christian sects whose practices include healing, prophecy, and speaking in tongues.
The charismatic entertainer was more than a singer, actress, and model; many felt she had the potential to be an elected official.
Someone who lies, claiming a special talent, skill, or expertise. A fake or humbug. Charlie the charlatan claimed his pills made one instantly tan.
Ultimately, the healer was proven to be a charlatan, but not before several people had suffered and died.
Deception or trickery, especially that achieved by clever argument or manipulation of facts or language. What most teens try when they get caught doing something wrong, though few succeed.
The actions and oratory of Professor Harold Hill, that famous character in the musicalThe Music Man, are often held up as perfect illustrations of chicanery.
Chicanery — This word for trickery, especially legal dodges and quibbles, came into English through a French word with the same meaning. It seems to be derived from the Persian chaugan, for the crooked stick used in polo. The stick’s name somehow came to mean a dispute in polo and other games, then took on the meaning of a crooked practice in those games and in general.
Honorable and courteous, as in a code of behavior followed by medieval knights. Considerate, especially toward women, the poor, or the defeated.
Placing one’s coat over a puddle for a lady was once thought chivalrous, but it’s now more likely to be thought crazy.
Ill-bred, surly, sullen, or miserly. Unmannered; boorish and vulgar. Boy, don’t we all know someone who deserves to be called this dramatic word?
Churlish behavior is never acceptable, no matter the person or the circumstances, but it is very hard to stop.
Evasiveness in speech or writing. The use of excess language to avoid saying something directly or truthfully. Overblown and tedious writing or speech. Don’t try to get around good elocution with circumlocution; speak and write directly and well.
The use of circumlocution can lengthen term papers and help students meet a predetermined word count or page requirement, but it can also often lead to lower grades.
To avoid rules or laws without actually breaking them. To evade by means of a gray area or loophole. To maneuver around authority.
To circumvent the no-short-skirt rule, many of the girls took to wearing Daisy Duke shorts.
The ability to see things beyond normal vision, events from the future, or those who have died. From the French for “clear sight,” the ability to perceive things beyond the range of human perception.
Clare’s claims of seeing into the future, and her amazing talent for predicting outcomes, still didn’t prove her clairvoyance.
Hidden, secret; concealed from general view or, if illegal, from authorities.
The clandestine activities of spies may seem glamorous in books and movies, but to those who really work in intelligence gathering, life can be dull as well as dangerous.
A show of mercy or leniency toward a wrongdoer or opponent, under appropriate circumstances.
Jack’s parents showed clemency and allowed him to keep his car even after his speeding conviction, inspiring him to drive more carefully.
Forceful, convincing, compelling; appealing effectively to the intellect or reason.
Although it took a while, he eventually convinced the rest of the student council with his cogent arguments.
Mental ability; the process of acquiring knowledge through reason, intuition, or perception. Can also mean knowledge. Yes, it’s just a fancy way to talk about thinking, but it’s definitely an impressive word.
The young parents were excited to see the process of cognition developing in their daughter, as she began to take tiny steps with her feet and giant leaps with her mind.
A supporter, accomplice, or associate of a particular leader to whom special treatment is given. A member of a united group or group sharing a common characteristic like age, income, or gender, especially in statistical surveys. Originally referred to one of ten divisions of a Roman legion, composed of soldiers with strong ties of comradeship.
Stephanie and her cohorts on the soccer team all shared physical qualities like blonde hair, as well as mental ones, such as the drive to win.
Someone who works with other people to achieve something. Also a person who betrays others by working with an enemy, especially an occupying army.
The local collaborators who supported the German occupation of France were severely punished after the Allied victory.
Conversation, discussion, or conference; often formal. A literary work written in the form of dialogue. The adjective colloquial means breezy, informal communication. A colloquialism is a common phrase of a conversational nature. So from noun to adjective to noun, from colloquy to colloquial to colloquialism, the definitions become less formal and more conversational.
Our member of the House of Representatives often holds a colloquy for discussing specific legislation, rather than just talking about general topics.
Secret cooperation among a number of people, usually to accomplish something illegal or wrong. A conspiratorial or secret understanding to join a secret plot or plan. Not a collision, but sometimes a collusion can also yield serious results.
We suspect collusion when the price of gas rises and all stations charge the same higher rates, but it may just be the power of supply and demand.
Physically good-looking, pleasing, fetching, inviting, or attractive; usually referring to women.
Comely women hope that love is more than skin deep and that men are attracted to them for more than just their looks.
Properly or appropriately proportionate. Of the same size, with an equal measure or equivalent duration. You can say equal, but “commensurate” is a much more powerful word.
Stewart’s grades were, unfortunately, commensurate with the small amount of time and energy he invested in his academics.
To express sympathy or sorrow; to share in another’s sorrow or disappointment.
After the game, the first thing the team did was commiserate with the parents of the player who was seriously injured.
Containing a wide range of information in a concise form; usually a piece of writing. Composed of all necessary or essential components, yet concise and succinct.
Words You Should Know in High School is both compendious and tremendous, or you wouldn’t be reading it, would you?
Willing to please others. Eager to make others happy; agreeable to the wishes of others. Not to be confused with complacent, which means “self-satisfied.”
Once Principal McAdams spoke honestly with Catherine, she transformed from an oppositional brat into a complaisant achiever.
To behave in a particular way. To agree or be consistent with something or someone. Those who comport well deport themselves with equal composure, conducting themselves in particular positive ways.
The chaperones on the trip expected everyone to comport themselves appropriately and politely.
Feelings of guilt, shame, and regret about doing something wrong. Remorse or uncertainty about a decision or course of action. Some punks shun others, then feel guilty and express compunction.
It is extremely sad when you see friends behaving badly yet showing no compunction.
Planned by two or more persons working together on an action or effort. Mutual, as in actions taken toward an established goal. Also describes music written for several soloists. Much fancier way of saying together.
Musicians in concert act as performers concerted to achieve common creative objectives.
From the Latin for “to have a conversation with,” to chat or discuss something informally. Can describe engaging, extravagant storytelling. Also, to invent and believe stories to fill mental gaps due to memory loss or dementia. The noun confab means a casual discussion or chat, or a gathering of people for a discussion. Talk about a fancy word for talking — confabulate takes the prize.
The two drivers stopped the flow of traffic east and west in order to confabulate about who had caused the accident.
A point where two or more streams flow together. A point of meeting, flowing together, or joining. To increase your word influence, use confluence when speaking or writing about meeting.
If you think about it, most of the world’s religions have common origins and many points of confluence.
Present or existing from birth, as in an unusual physical condition. Frankly, most things congenital are not very congenial.
It was very sad for John and Patricia to learn that their newborn had a congenital respiratory disorder, but they were happy to discover that it was treatable.
To perform illusions and magic using agile hand movements. To summon or call upon, as if by supernatural means.
On the anniversary of Houdini’s death, many try to conjure up the image of this famous magician who spent his life exploring the potential to communicate with the dead.
The implied, figurative, or suggested additional meaning of a word or phrase, apart from the literal dictionary meaning. In contrast, the word denotation means the literal definition or meaning.
As society changes, the connotations of particular words also change, and what was once an appropriate word sometimes becomes politically incorrect.
A group set up for a common purpose that would be beyond the capabilities of a single member. A union, partnership, or alliance. Also a legal term for the rights of married persons.
The Career and Internship Connection is a consortium of about a dozen schools that participate in four off-campus recruiting events.
Bewilderment, amazement, alarm, or dismay caused by something unexpected. Amazement or confusion at a turn of events.
Much to the consternation of her parents, Stephanie, who was only eighteen, announced her engagement to a man twice her age.
To interpret or understand meaning of a word, gesture, or action in a particular way. To translate or analyze the grammar of a piece of text. To construe is to reach a conclusion based on review.
It is often an attorney’s job to construe the meaning of a contract, then share that interpretation with a client and, if needed, with a judge or jury.
To bring something such as a business deal to a conclusion or desired end; to achieve, fulfill, complete, or finalize. Also, for a couple to make a marriage legally valid by having sexual relations.
By consummating an agreement, and then signing the letter of intent, the high school All-American football player committed to attending Notre Dame.
Feeling, expressing, or demonstrating strong dislike, disdain, or scorn for someone or something. Showing an utter lack of respect for tradition or convention.
The contemptuous behavior of gang members is perhaps the most difficult issue faced in many urban areas today.
The words, phrases, or passages before and after a particular word or passage that help to explain its complete meaning. The circumstances or events related to an incident or action.
The context of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, famous “I Have a Dream” speech is important for understanding the full impact this oration had on its audience.
To disagree with or oppose a decision or statement; go against or deny. To oppose something by action or argument. To break a rule or law. To be mean, you would contravene (or deny), often making others cry.
The decisions of coaches are rarely contravened by players.
A cleverly made, unusual device or machine. A clever way to acquire something; a plot or scheme. A plan intended to deceive.
The contrivances of alchemists were machines that attempted — and failed — to turn base metals into gold.
Time spent resting, recovering, and regaining one’s health after an illness or medical treatment. From the Latin for “to grow stronger.”
Those people who believe convalescence is done better at home don’t have two-year-old twins.
Enjoyable because of friendliness and amicability; festive and sociable. Given to eating, drinking, and socializing.
It was very surprising that the prom was so convivial, given that adolescents can often be competitive and taunting.
Too complex or intricate to understand easily. Complicated, with many twists or folds. Literally, folded into a coil or spiral. Most often used to express an extreme state of complication, intricacy, or interdependency.
Relationships can be convoluted and difficult, but they are ultimately worth the effort.
Produced in large quantities; abundant.
Copious notes can be a student’s best study tools.
To give evidence of the truth; confirm or increase in certainty. To provide testimony that supports previous theories or opinions.
Jim said his bother would corroborate his story, proving he was nowhere near the scene of the crime.
A binding agreement or contract between two or more parties. In biblical terms, the promise binding the ancient Israelites to God.
Some teenagers believe promises made by parents, particularly regarding cars and curfews, should be thought of as covenants.
Secret or covered over. Concealed or surreptitious. Not intended to be known or seen.
Many covert operations contributed to the success of D-day, but it took decades for anyone involved in them to be honored.
To study a subject intensively for an imminent exam. To eat food hastily and with greed. To force persons or objects into a space or container too small to comfortably fit them all.
Cramming for exams is an attempt to quickly force large quantities of facts into your memory, which, ideally, can retain all the pertinent information.
A belief in something as factual, based on the degree that something is plausible. Faith in a thing’s legitimacy.
The defendant’s claims of innocence lost credence as more evidence was uncovered and made public.
Too easily convinced that something is true; given to accept or believe readily. Accepting of even outlandish assertions easily.
Credulous consumers are likely to spend thousands of dollars on diets and exercise equipment that don’t really work.
Related to food or cooking. Commonly used to describe the type of school where chefs are trained. If you want to follow the recipe for good usage, use “culinary” rather than “cooking.”
The sale of culinary books and related items increased dramatically as the popularity of television cooking shows rose.
To reach a climax or a high point of development. To conclude or reach fulfillment; to come to a dramatic end.
To no one’s surprise, Aaron’s constant detentions and oppositional behavior culminated in his suspension from school.
Deserving blame or punishment for something wrong; accountable for errors or misdeeds.
Mr. Hartland was culpable for the errors he made while grading the English exams, so he gave the students an extra ten points on each essay.
As conceived and defined by Professor E.D. Hirsch, Jr., “the background knowledge necessary for functional literacy and effective national communication”; from the subtitle of his book, What Every American Needs to Know. The information authors assume readers have at certain stages of education; the educational background necessary for effective communication of ideas.
The debate regarding cultural literacy and its part in our elementary and secondary school curricula continues to this day.
Awkward to carry or handle; hard to manage because of bulk, weight, size, or shape. Difficult to deal with because of length or complexity. Not a cummerbund — that’s a pleated, often colored sash worn by men as part of formal attire.
While desktop computers have become smaller and lighter, they are still cumbersome when compared to laptop models.
Greed; extreme desire for money and possessions. Cupid is a symbol of love, and cupidity is the love of money and things.
Unrealistic cupidity of youth, often expressed by spoiled children, should with time be replaced by the work ethic of an adult.
Able to restore health; curing; serving to provide a remedy.
The curative regimen of the spa involved diet and hot baths, as well as exercise and massage.
The theoretical realm where electronic information exists or is shared. The imaginary world of virtual reality.
It’s fun to think of e-mails as floating in cyberspace, but they are actually a series of impulses sent and received over a variety of fiber-optic or traditional telephone lines.
A lighthearted undertaking; carefree, frivolous, inconsequential, or idle wasting of time. An amorous flirtation, distraction, or affair.
Stephanie could not forgive her husband’s dalliance, so she asked for a divorce.
Damp and chilly; unpleasantly cold and moist. Dank is damp, but not necessarily dark.
The Williams’ basement was dank even before the rainy winter season.
Something that becomes a disaster, defeat, or failure. Utter collapse or rout; complete, often humiliating failure.
Wars often seem justified at first, but they tend to become debacles if an exit strategy is not devised and implemented.
To weaken or sap strength from someone or something.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, debilitates those who suffer from it, and it is ultimately fatal.
Shedding or losing foliage at the end of the growing season. Falling off or shedding at a particular time, season, or stage of growth. Not lasting; ephemeral.
Some Native American tribes marked the change of seasons by the deciduous clues around them, including deer shedding antlers, leaves falling from certain trees, and feathers molting from specific birds.
Dignity or correctness that is socially expected; dignified conduct. A harmonious compatibility of elements in a piece of art or literature. Not to be confused with décor, which is the style of furniture and accessories in a room, house, or stage scenery.
A visit to the Supreme Court will reveal the meaning of true decorum.
In very poor condition; old, overused, or not working efficiently. Lessened in strength or ability, as in old age. Used to describe a person, object, or idea that is weak and past its prime. Please don’t call someone decrepit if they are just old; use this word appropriately.
Most of the buildings in the so-called poor part of town were indeed decrepit and dangerous to live in.
To reach a logical conclusion by using what is known, without all necessary information. To infer or derive from evidence or assumption. To deduce is not to take your best guess; it means a logical leap.
It is the job of detectives to deduce the circumstances of crimes, for they rarely have all the facts.
False, baseless attack on a person’s or group’s reputation, name, or character. The act of defaming or bringing disgrace.
Defamation seems to be the purpose of many newspapers that focus on sensational stories about stars and celebrities.
Polite respect or submission to the judgment, opinion, or wishes of another. The act of yielding to another higher, senior, or more authoritative person.
In deference to the memory of his brother, Ken did not speak about the details of his accident with anyone.
To do something in a way that shows it is beneath one’s dignity. To agree in a very condescending way to do something. To deign is sometimes to feign that actions are okay — or so you say.
Please don’t deign to support our fundraising efforts if you are truly not on board with our program.
Delicious; absolutely delightful, pleasing, or attractive. From the Latin for “delightful.”
Italian and Jewish grandmas are famous for their delectable dishes, served with a bit of guilt on the side.
With harmful or damaging effect on something or someone. As a legal term, communicates the assessment of harm, injury, or loss.
It is now accepted as fact that smoking is deleterious to one’s health as well as highly addictive, but year after year more teenagers still take it up.
To describe or explain something in detail. To outline, sketch, graph, chart, or draw something. To describe the principal points of something.
The proctor clearly delineated the instructions for the essay exam, in writing and out loud.
Modest, reserved, or shy in appearance. Used to describe sober, retiring, or sedate behavior.
Demure actions and attitudes are much more proper than oppositional and defiant behavior.
To designate or refer to somebody or something in particular. To define something literally, as in a dictionary definition. To announce or make known. The opposite of connote, which means to imply or suggest something in addition to its literal meaning.
Before the camping trip, each student received specific instructions regarding what would denote a rules infraction that would be punished by being sent home.
Public accusation or condemnation. An accusation that someone has done a misdeed.
It’s common for litigants in a divorce to issue strong mutual denunciations.
Worthy of severe condemnation, censure, and denunciation. Also, wretched or grievous because of neglect, poverty, or misfortune. Deplorable is a strong word to use for those who abuse and also for the people and things that are misused.
Some poor children live in deplorable conditions that diminish their potential for physical, psychological, and intellectual development.
State of moral corruption and reprehensibility. A morally corrupt or wicked act.
The depravity of those who committed the Holocaust will never be forgotten.
To belittle or express disapproval of someone or something. To cut down verbally. Teens can deprecate those they hate, or, in humor, those they date. Most high school humor is deprecating in nature. Get it, geek?
Verbal bullies deprecate others rather than using their fists, but the words hurt just the same.
Deliberate neglect of obligations, duty, or responsibility. The act of abandoning or deserting a building.
Dereliction of duty is a serious charge for those in the military.
Ridicule, contempt, or mockery. From the verb deride, meaning “to belittle something or someone.” Derision deprecates, and bears emotional weight, so think about what you say before it’s too late.
Whenever these two schools compete in a sporting event, all you hear is derision chanted back and forth from one side to the other.
The path of descent for something, such as a name or word, that traces back to the source. A mathematical or logical argument flowing from initial assumptions, to proofs, and then to conclusion. Not to be confused with deviation (a change from the norm, expected or planned), for it is a direct and clear path from a source or to a conclusion.
Etymologists, who study the derivation of words, should not be confused with entomologists, who study insects, or etiologists, who study the causes or origins of disease.
Extremely unhappy, depressed, dejected, or discouraged. Despairing, with the feeling that all hope is in vain.
Divorce respondents are often despondent, if depressed about the breakup or, most likely, the attorney fees.
Authoritarian rule by a tyrant, dictator, or despot. Rule by one dominant person who exercises complete power. High school students sometimes describe principals, parents, or coaches as despots, and occasionally they are right.
The rise of despotism is often linked to poverty, when the poor hope a powerful leader can bring positive change.
Easy and skilled in movement, usually in tasks completed with the hands.
The word’s root (like that of ambidextrous) is in the Latin for “right,” because most people are more skillful with this hand.
The director was looking for a dexterous actor who could succeed both in doing stunts and in playing the dramatic role.
A bitter verbal or written attack; a denunciation. Also, a pointed and abusive critique.
Angry at being caught cheating, the student launched a profanity-laced diatribe on the test proctor.
Two parts, ideas, or concepts that differ from, contradict, or perfectly complement each other. Contrasting halves, pairs, or sets. A division of mutually exclusive ideas or groups.
The dichotomy of good and evil is a theme in almost all classic novels read in high school.
Focused on communicating a moral, political, or educational message. Presenting a clear vision of right and wrong; projecting morality. Not to be confused with eclectic, which means composed of elements from varied sources, or dialectic, which is the tension between conflicting elements, forces, or ideas.
Some authors and lecturers are subtly didactic, while others are more obvious and preachy.
Lacking self-confidence. Shy, unassertive, or with a low sense of self-worth. Reserved or restrained in the way one behaves. Don’t confuse with defendant, which is a person answering criminal charges, or dissident, a person who disagrees with an established political or religious authority.
Diffident individuals don’t belong in sales positions, which require assertiveness and risk-taking.
Very small, or smaller than usual. This idea is often communicated by attaching a suffix to the noun being described, as in kitchenette (suffix “-ette”) or booklet (suffix “-let”).
The diminutive yet amazing basketball player proved the axiom “Good things do come in small packages.”
To throw someone into a state of confusion; to utterly take aback. A great word to use, but don’t confuse, or you will discombobulate or give someone the blues.
The attempt to see everything at Disneyland in one day can discombobulate even the calmest parents.
Causing unease, confusion, or dismay. Upsetting harmony or balance.
Many actions that are typical of teens are disconcerting to their parents and teachers.
Less than honest, scheming, insincere, crafty, or sly. Withholding known information; intending to deceive. If dis or dat is less than genuine and honest, it is disingenuous.
Mary did not look Jim in the eye when she explained why she missed their date, so he suspected she was being disingenuous.
Things or people so dissimilar they cannot be compared. Two things fundamentally different. Do not confuse with disparage, which refers to disapproving; desperate, which means overwhelmed with anxiety to the point of losing hope; or dissipate, which is to cause something to disappear or evaporate.
Neil Simon’s play The Odd Couple was about two disparate men who learned their friendship could overcome all differences.
To show off, draw attention to oneself, or behave in a playful way. If dis sport is a diversion, you’re said to disport at a sporting event.
Those two teens are acting like little kids as they disport at Disneyland.
To distribute or spread information or something else; to spread far and wide.
Once information about colleges was received, the counselor had to decide how to disseminate the brochures and flyers.
The disintegration of a thing into fragments, parts, or smaller, more basic units. The destruction of an organization or institution; the breakup of a legal relationship, partnership, or marriage.
The dissolution of the twenty-five-year marriage appeared sad to outsiders, but it made those involved feel happy and free.
Incompatibility among ideas, actions, or beliefs; disharmony between several sounds. The antonym of consonance, which means agreement, harmony, close similarity, or pleasing and simultaneous sounds. Dissonance is truly an annoyance, for it is disharmonious.
Adolescence is often described as a period of dissonance, when young men and women face challenges, confusion, and conflict as they forge new beliefs that are often incompatible with past behaviors.
To persuade someone against a course of action; to convince an audience not to think, feel, or believe a certain thing. To convince another to take alternate action.
Tim’s classmates dissuaded him from cutting class and risking a detention.
The acronym for “deoxyribonucleic acid,” the molecule that carries genetic information in all life forms. The workings of DNA are central concerns of biology and genetics.
DNA is commonly referred to as the “blueprint for life,” for it carries the genetic codes associated with the post-fertilization development of an organism.
Quiet, easy to control or teach; unlikely to cause trouble. A crocodile is rarely docile.
It is unusual to find a truly docile wolf, for these animals are wild by nature.
Strong expression or adherence to beliefs or opinions. Related to or expressing religious, political, philosophical, or moral dogma.
Students believe some teachers are dogmatic, not willing to change their views or consider ideas counter to their own.
An occupied house, apartment, or residence; a legal, permanent home. Don’t confuse it with docile, for a home is not easy to teach or control.
Homeless individuals, by definition, have no domicile, so it is difficult if not impossible for them to get certain financial benefits.
A collection of documents related to a particular person or topic.
The personnel office keeps a dossier on all employees.
A company created to provide service or information over the World Wide Web. Also refers to Web sites on the Internet with the suffix “.com,” compared to “.edu,” “.org,” or other suffixes.
Initial public offerings, or the first public trading of stock in dot-com companies, created many instant millionaires.
Amusing in a wry, odd, or funny way. Trolls might be droll, if they are funny and amusing.
Norma’s peers considered her droll, for she was always able to make them laugh with her offbeat comments.
A learning disorder marked by difficulty in spelling or reading.
Her learning disabilities, including dyslexia, frequently caused her to transpose letters in words.
Full of cheer, enthusiasm, or optimism, as expressed in speech, writing, or behavior.
Ebullient game-show hosts are talented in very special ways.
Unconventional, unpredictable, or erratic behavior or quality. The behavior of a person who is prone to odd behavior. A very fancy way of saying strange, and a word that often describes characters in novels. Remember Jay Gatsby?
William was thought to be odd in general, but one of his eccentricities, his making of unusual noises, could have been a symptom of Tourette’s syndrome.
Made up of parts from various sources or origins; diverse items, styles, or things. Eclectic simply means varied, but using it in papers enhances your chances of earning better grades.
Eclectic musical tastes are unusual in teenagers, as they most often focus on the most popular groups or styles.
Instruction or enlightenment, often involving moral or spiritual teachings. Not a word to be confused with edifice, an impressive building or large complex structure, but similar to its soundalike, education.
The evangelical preacher’s edification of church members and others in the community was known to all.
To elicit, derive, or draw something out, often as in a logical conclusion. To reason or conclude from given facts. Related to deduce, which implies reaching a conclusion without all information, but not to reduce, which means to lessen.
Myron’s attempts to educe his sister’s whereabouts were futile.
An attitude or action notable for being bold, impudent, shameless, or arrogant. Effrontery in front of others is insulting.
Sean had the effrontery to ask his parents for a new car immediately after he had an accident that was a result of drinking and driving.
Related to or arising from a belief that all people are equal and should enjoy equal rights. Fair toward all parties. Not related to eagles, unless you believe that metaphorically all persons should be as free as these amazing birds.
It is unusual to see egalitarian behavior among high school students, who often act as if rights are related to grade, age, and how cool someone seems.
Selfish; interested only in oneself, and not in the needs or feelings of others. Narrow-mindedly focused on self rather than other people. Sounds like eccentric, and while egocentrics can be odd or unusual, the two words are not synonyms — you shouldn’t confuse them.
Not surprisingly, the egocentric author’s greatest achievement was an autobiography.
Incorrect to an extraordinary level. Bad in a flagrant, blatant, or ridiculous way.
An egregious error is one so obvious it should not have been made, nor should it be easily forgiven.
To cause, produce, or bring out a reaction. To evoke, stimulate, or generate a response. Too often confused with illicit, which means improper or illegal. While something illicit can elicit a reaction from the police, these two words are not synonyms.
The calling of each graduate’s name elicited cheers and applause from family and friends.
A manner or style of speaking, especially public speaking; the art of speaking well in public. Elocution refers to the way language is spoken; eloquence refers to the way ideas are expressed.
The candidate’s elocution was so poor that it diminished her ability to convey a coherent message.
The ability to speak forcefully, expressively, and persuasively. Convincing and pleasant language.
The professor’s eloquence made her very popular among students and, ultimately, led to her being granted tenure.
To explain, clarify, or provide key information. To throw light on and clarify a subject. Related to the adjective lucid, meaning emitting light, rational, or clear and easily understood. Ed would elucidate his feelings, transforming Stephanie into a lucid date.
Only Jordan could elucidate upon his motivations and why he behaved in certain ways.
Difficult to find, catch, understand, perceive, comprehend, or describe. Not easily recalled or understood. Though it sounds like elucidate, this word has an opposite meaning.
Elusive goals are often the sweetest to gain because you have to work so hard to obtain them.
To come from or come out of someone, something, or somewhere. To flow from a specific source.
The glow and heat that emanated from the fireplace made everyone feel warm and safe.
To free or liberate from slavery, restraint, oppression, or bondage.
Many young people feel that an eighteenth birthday has the power to emancipate them from their parents’ rules.
To increase the beauty of something by adding ornaments. To improve in appearance by adornment. To exaggerate the facts of a matter to make its description more interesting.
Jim embellished his tale of almost catching an elusive catfish until it began to resemble the story of Ahab’s quest for the great white whale.
To identify with and understand another’s feelings, emotions, and challenges. Not to be confused or misused with emphasize, which means to stress or give importance to something.
The counselor tried to empathize with students in order to earn their trust.
To attempt to match or surpass someone or something by imitation. To act using another as a model. Emus emulate ostriches; one flightless bird mimicking another.
Young children definitely emulate older brothers or sisters, so siblings must pay attention to who is watching them.
Indigenous to a certain place, region, or group, as in characteristics, species, or disease. Something that describes and is confined to a particular area. In contrast, pandemic means existing in a wide area, such as in many countries.
Pines of that type were endemic to only a specific region, one that was clearly identifiable by what was called the treeline.
To weaken someone’s physical, mental, or moral vitality. To deprive or diminish vitality, strength, or endurance. The antonym of energize, it is still sometimes misused to mean pepping somebody up when in fact it means bringing that person down.
Activity-packed family vacations that are intended to provide rest and recuperation often enervate all involved.
Someone or something that is not easily explained; that which is puzzling, perplexing, inexplicable, or ambiguous. Enigmas, dilemmas, mysteries, and conundrums all involve situations that are difficult to explain or solve.
The Mona Lisa’s smile is probably the most popular enigma in the world of art.
As a body or group; together. A French term that translates loosely as “in the form of a crowd.” Definitely try this one in your next conversation or paper, and then see the reactions. They will be positive en masse.
Teenage girls seem to move en masse, almost always in a group.
To involve, entangle, or implicate someone in a way that makes it hard for them to extricate themselves. Literally, it means to catch with a mesh net. Enmeshed in mesh nets, it was hard for fish to get loose.
When Julie got home, she was immediately enmeshed in the raging argument between her brother and sister.
Extreme ill will, hatred, and mutual antagonism between enemies. Not to be confused with enigma, which means a mystery, puzzle, or confusing person or thing. Sadly, it is a powerful and applicable word, today and every day.
The enmity between terrorists and those they consider enemies grows day by day.
To protect and preserve from change; to cherish as though sacred.
The most significant honor an athlete can receive is to be enshrined in a sport’s hall of fame.
Delightful, fascinating, or engaging someone’s attention; beautiful, captivating, mesmerizing, or spellbinding.
For most teenage boys, the beauty of swimsuit models is enthralling, to say the least.
To pronounce distinctly; articulate. To give a speech that explains something clearly and lucidly. When you enunciate, you also elucidate and educate, so don’t wait.
The speech therapist worked with Sam on his inability to properly enunciate words that began with the letter T.
Epicure — The ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus argued that true pleasure means peace of mind and freedom from want and pain, to be achieved through noble thoughts, self-control, and moderation. Students distorted his teachings completely, using them as an excuse for selfish indulgence, so that an epicure became one devoted to gluttony and debauchery. Centuries later, the word took on its current meaning of gourmet or connoisseur, one with refined tastes and knowledge of food and drink.
Someone with a refined taste for food and drink; a connoisseur. An epicure often needs an epic cure for heartburn and hangovers, even after eating good food and drinking fine wines.
To an epicure, a fast food restaurant is an affront and not worthy of discussion.
A sudden intuitive leap of understanding, often with credit given to divine inspiration. A sudden manifestation of the essence or meaning of something; a revelation. When capitalized, refers to the Christian festival celebrating the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles.
Seemingly miraculous circumstances, such as an unexplained recuperation from serious illness, often lead a person to an epiphany regarding the blessings of life.
Even temper and calm, usually displayed under stress; composure in a difficult situation. Not to be confused with equality, to value all in a group equally, or anonymity, the state of being unknown or not identifiable.
Equanimity is a quality to be revered and one that can be taught, practiced, and perfected.
Either of the two days in a year when the sun crosses the celestial equator and day and night are approximately equal.
The vernal equinox occurs in the spring, and the autumnal equinox occurs in the fall.
To destroy, get rid of, or do away with utterly. To wipe a thing out, leaving no sign, so it cannot recur or return.
It is the greatest hope of many medical researchers to eradicate cancer within the next twenty years.
Being an imitation or substitute for something of better quality. Characteristic of an unconvincing substitute that is not the real deal. If you err and sit on the ersatz chair, you might fall and hurt your derriere.
Margarine is really just ersatz butter, so it doesn’t taste as good.
Having or showing extensive knowledge gained from studying and reading; learned and scholarly. A person with either subject-specific knowledge or a broad and well-rounded education. Airheads are the opposite of erudite.
Once you complete college, one should at least be able to describe you as erudite.
Intended to be understood by a select and initiated few. Secret or highly confidential; accessible to insiders only. Using the word esoteric is quite esoteric. Get it? If so, you’re among the select few who do!
Esoteric historians are not overly popular among college freshmen, but senior history majors tend to like them.
To adopt, support, or advocate a particular belief or cause. Also, to take in marriage.
Presidential candidates tend to espouse centrist causes as the election draws nearer.
To cause someone to stop feeling friendly, affectionate, or sympathetic; to alienate or remove from a relationship.
Today it is not unusual for family members to be estranged, either not living with or not caring about each other.
The study of word origins and how words have evolved into their current forms or meanings. The lineage of a word; description of origin and how the word came into its current use.
Those who have studied Greek or Latin can make educated and often correct guesses regarding a word’s etymology.
A word or phrase used in place of another because it is less direct, unpleasant, offensive, or blunt. A nice way of saying something harsh, offensive, or vulgar.
You say these are going to be times of challenge for this company; isn’t that just a euphemism for times of decreased profitability?
Disappearing after only a short time; likely to vanish, like vapor. The name of a popular musical group, this word also describes the fate of most such groups.
Some stellar phenomena appear to astronomers, even those using the most sophisticated equipment, as evanescent events, visible for only fractions of seconds.
To bring to mind a memory or feeling from the past, one that carries a particular reaction or feeling.
For college freshmen, first visits back to high school evoke many positive memories and sentimental feelings.
To worsen or aggravate an already bad situation. To make something even more unpleasant or severe.
Lying almost always exacerbates a bad situation; that’s one reason that honesty is the best policy.
To free from blame or accusation of guilt. To clear one’s name.
DNA evidence has been used to exculpate those accused and convicted of many serious crimes.
To urge someone strongly and earnestly to follow a course of action. To give urgent or earnest advice.
Some believe it is an axiom that a crowd of cheering fans can exhort players to achieve their maximum capability.
An urgent situation requiring immediate action or attention. An unexpected development that puts pressure on those involved. An exigency sounds like its near synonym, emergency. Don’t confuse with the meaning of the adjective exiguous, which means scanty or meager.
When the woman on the plane complained of labor pains, the flight attendant fully understood the exigency of the situation.
Officially declare someone not guilty of a crime or blameless for an act. To relieve someone from obligation or responsibility. Similar to exculpate, but used in an official context.
The jury exonerated him of any guilt in the case, but many people believed he was still somehow responsible.
Speedy, prompt, and efficient.
My expeditious completion of all chores meant I could leave the house immediately after dinner.
An exclamation, interjection, or profanity. In grammar, the part of speech that conveys or expresses emotion without having a strict literal meaning, as in Oh! or Ah ha!
One of the editor’s jobs was to expurgate expletives from the manuscript in order to make the final copy acceptable to all readers.
To cleanse something, like a book or music lyrics, of material that is vulgar, obscene, or otherwise objectionable. A very fancy way to say censor.
The Federal Communications Commission motivates broadcasters to expurgate offensive material by levying fines on stations that receive complaints from listeners.
To make a mistake, fault, or error seem less serious by providing mitigating excuses.
Dylan managed to extenuate his tardiness and avoid a week’s detention.
To use known facts as a starting point, and then draw conclusions about something unknown. To estimate by examining unknown values that fall outside a range of known variables.
Crime scene investigators are known for their abilities to extrapolate information about a victim’s last hours, based upon forensic evidence.
A component, dimension, or aspect; one of several parts. One face of a cut stone or smooth, polished surface.
In order to do well on the history exam, Jay had to study all facets of the Civil War and the antebellum period.
Intended to be humorous, but often silly or inappropriate. Playful and communicated in jest. That which is frivolous or wryly humorous is facetious.
Parents are being facetious when they suggest that children whining about being bored should go play in traffic.
To help along in order to make something easy, or easier to do. To decrease resistance in order to ease the flow of information, or the progress of someone or something.
Web-based reservation systems facilitate the making of personal travel and vacation plans, diminishing the need for travel agents.
Something done, decided, already concluded, or seemingly unalterable. From the French for “accomplished fact,” an act or event presented as beyond change or dispute. While done deal is nice, “fait accompli” will suffice if you wish to impress teachers and others.
Applying to some colleges for early decision means that if admitted, it is a fait accompli that you will attend.
Concerned over the perfection of even the smallest detail. Meticulous and exacting; compulsive in terms of cleanliness.
Robbie’s mom is known as a fastidious housekeeper, so we all took our shoes off at the door.
Revealing a lack of intelligence, as well as a lack of awareness. Stupid, foolish, or idiotic; without personal responsibility. Many teens are fatuous when expressing what they think is humor.
Comedians that are fatuous, rather than thoughtfully sarcastic or clever, are not funny or worthy of their audience’s approval.
An embarrassing social blunder; a behavioral error. French for “false step.”Stepping on kitty’s four paws is clearly a faux pas.
To avoid committing a faux pas, Wendi read several etiquette books before embarking on her trip to Europe.
Unable or unwilling to do anything useful. Lacking the thought or organization necessary to succeed. Ineffective or feeble. Without initiative or ability in a specific field.
It is frustrating when the most vocal person in a group of volunteers also proves to be the most feckless.
Happiness, contentment, and bliss. Something that inspires sublime contentment. An appropriate or pleasing manner. Use this word in lieu of happiness, and those around you will be felicitous.
The baby’s after-meal felicity was a relief to his tired mother.
Having the qualities of a wild beast; undomesticated. Feral ferrets are fearsome, so watch out.
Legends of feral children, those reared by wolves or apes, are common in folklore and literature.
The extreme intensity of an emotion or belief. An intense craze or state of emotion. An abnormally high temperature. Similar to but not to be confused with fever.
Overcome by the fervor of the game, not the heat, the players on the winning team took off their jerseys and threw them to the crowd.
A total, humiliating, or ludicrous failure.
It was harsh, but accurate, to call their first date a fiasco, for both Barbara and Charles agreed to never speak to each other again.
Fiasco — This word, meaning “a total, foolish failure,” derives from the Italian word fiasco, for “bottle,” but no one seems to know why. Used in England as a theatrical term in the late nineteenth century, the word may have something to do with a bottle breaking — either accidentally or as part of the plot — in some forgotten yet very bad play. It might also be that a brand of wine in some bottles was flat or sour — a complete failure or fiasco — or that imperfect bottles made by glassblowers were called fiascos.
The use of delaying tactics to prevent things from getting done in a legislative assembly. Obstructionist tactics, especially prolonged speeches, whose purpose is to delay legislative action.
James Stewart gained fame, as well as an Oscar nomination, for his filibuster in the movie Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
To display in an ostentatious way; to lack shame, modesty, or humility. To show off a characteristic or possession in an outrageous way. Not to be confused, as often happens, with flout (defined on the next page).
Rappers flaunt their income with what they call “bling,” and what others call ostentatious jewelry.
A young bird whose flight feathers have just grown in. A young or inexperienced person. The fledging of the fledgling’s feathers forecast flight for that night.
Th e fledgling golfer became frustrated after most shots but quite excited when a ball landed close to the hole.
Showing a lack of appropriate seriousness. A disrespectful disregard for decorum, often expressed by tactless chatter and jabber. Being flip to his aunt was thought flippant by his uncle and earned Joe punishment.
His flippant actions and words earned a few laughs from his peers, but they also got him several days of detention and a bad reputation.
To show contempt by openly breaking a law, rule, or tradition. Fools flout the rules in front of police and end up in jail.
Leaving one’s hat on during the playing of the national anthem flouts a tradition and it is considered highly disrespectful.
An idiosyncrasy, small weakness, failing, fault, or character flaw that is comparatively insignificant.
A common foible is to surround yourself with those who flatter, rather than those who will be honest.
To unload something undesirable, false, or inferior on the pretence that it is genuine, valuable, or desirable; to pawn off something undesirable.
This project was foisted off on us because everyone believed it was impossible and because we were considered the worst department in the organization.
An initial attempt at a new activity or occupation. A short trip or visit to a place; a particular purpose. A sudden military attack or raid.
Elizabeth’s foray into the world of publishing was not without some disheartening moments.
By chance, accidental; lucky or fortunate. Unplanned but yielding a pleasant outcome.
After years of trial and error, Dr. Powers made a fortuitous discovery when he mistakenly combined two chemical compounds.
Irritable and quarrelsome. Likely to misbehave or complain; unruly. Likely to cause disturbance or trouble. Not related in meaning to fraction, a number that is not a whole number or a small portion of an entire thing.
For some strange reason, the saying “Boys will be boys” is often used to describe fractious male teens who act out in public.
The point at which something comes to maturity or reaches a desired outcome. The achievement of something desired or labored. Literally and figuratively, “to reap the fruit of one’s labors.”
All those years of studying reached fruition when Ted was accepted to the college he had dreamed of.
To criticize or denounce loudly, dramatically, or forcefully. In another sense, to detonate an explosion.
By now, we had all grown tired of listening to our father fulminating against “those crooked politicians.”
Reminiscent of, related to, or suitable for a funeral. Solemn, mournful, dark, brooding, and dismal. Clearly a very dramatic adjective — just be careful to spell it correctly, or you may be mournful.
After they lost the state championship, the football team’s locker room could be accurately described as funereal.
Surreptitious, sly, stealthy; meant to escape detection. Describes a person with something to hide. High school students are furtive in many circumstances because they often have something to hide. So you can use this fancy word on numerous occasions.
Prior to the surprise party, Stacy’s friends appeared furtive as they made plans, purchased gifts, and transported supplies.
Someone who typically worries about trivial things. A word most famously applied to Charlie Brown’s friend Lucy.
Most fussbudgets seem to have an unlimited supply of fuss and bother because they never run out of either.
Not thinking clearly, or not expressing ideas or thoughts clearly; inarticulate.
A fuzzy-headed morning often follows a fun night.
Courtesy, thoughtfulness, and bravery; nobility or chivalry, especially in actions toward women. Grand, majestic, or showy dress, style, or action.
Some say that chivalry and gallantry are dead, but if you look hard you can see that they are still alive and well in many modern attitudes and actions.
To walk or run in a clumsy and boisterous way. To move heavily, with thudding steps.
Today’s athletes galumph in triumph after a touchdown, basket, or goal; they have no concern for the sportsmanship of the past.
To stimulate someone or something into action, especially muscle fibers, by means of electric current. In a technical sense, to coat a metal with zinc to prevent corrosion.
The hardships of winter galvanize the isolated residents of Maine to help one another whenever needed.
Strategies used to gain an advantage in sports, life, business, or politics. Unconventional but not strictly illegal tactics employed to gain an advantage.
Pre-game chatter with opposing team members is a sure sign of gamesmanship, and it can backfire at times.
The full range or extent. A critic once famously slammed an early performance of Katharine Hepburn’s as running the “gamut of emotions from A to B.” In music, refers to the entire series of standard musical notes.
His house featured an entertainment center whose components ran the gamut of state-of-the-art equipment.
To earn, acquire, collect, amass, gather, or accumulate something by effort. To gather something into storage.
Jamie, always a good student, garnered many honors at commencement, including that of valedictorian.
To add something to food or drink to enhance flavor or appearance; to decorate something, usually food, with an ornament.
Tony would garnish his wedding cakes with rose blossoms, enhancing their appearance as well as fragrance.
Excessively talkative; using many, many, many, too many words.
Drunks are often described as garrulous.
The art or appreciation of preparing and eating good food. Those who practice gastronomy don’t necessarily have gas, but their efforts do focus on things “gastro,” relating to the stomach or belly.
Those knowledgeable in gastronomy don’t consider hot dogs bought and eaten at a sporting event to be epicurean delights, but true fans do.
Lacking grace or tact in a social situation. Describes a socially inappropriate remark or action.
Justin’s constant belching at the table was clearly gauche, but he believed such behavior was normal for a teenager.
Brightly colored, showy; decorated in a tasteless or vulgar way. Tacky or excessively ornamental.
Those who win the lottery or acquire other unexpected riches often quickly adorn themselves with gaudy jewelry.
Refined, good-mannered; typical of high social standing. Overdoing the refined behavior considered typical of the upper class. At the risk of provoking giggles, please do not confuse this well-mannered word with genital, which refers to external sexual organs.
Cynthia took care to make sure she ate properly and conversed politely at her first experience with her genteel future in-laws.
Suitably related to something, especially the topic being discussed. Not to be confused with the noun German, which is someone raised and born in Germany, the official language of Germany, or something from Germany. The word “German” is only germane when you are speaking about Germany.
Let’s see what Bill has to say, as his contributions are always germane.
To divide an electoral district so as to give a political advantage to a particular party. To divide a geographic area into voting districts so as to give advantage to one party in elections.
The state legislature’s attempt to gerrymander was deemed illegal and voided by the state supreme court.
The carrying of offspring in the womb. The necessary period of time for the development of a fetus during pregnancy. Also, the development of a concept, idea, or plan. Not a “gas station,” where you purchase gas.
The gestation of one’s candidacy for president begins well before and goes well beyond the primary elections.
A movement of hands or arms that accompanies speech, usually for emphasis. An expression made with hands and arms, and not a vulgar one-finger gesture.
Great orators are versed in gesticulation as well as verbal eloquence.
An overly complicated device, usually mechanical. A gadget is a gizmo, and a gizmo is a gadget. Yes, they are synonyms.
Justin’s father is always designing and building gizmos that cost more than things he could just get from the store.
A Soviet policy permitting greater openness, discussion, and disclosure of ideas and information. Used by Mikhail Gorbachev, former Soviet premier, to describe the less repressive policies of the Soviet Union in the 1980s.
A period of glasnost preceded the downfall of the Soviet Union and foretold of an independent and democratic Russia.
The time of fading light after sunset, just before dark.
The gloaming is sometimes gloomy, but often serene.
An alphabetical collection of specialist terms and meanings, often an appendix to a book — or, in the case of this publication, an entire book.
A glossary is a special list for specialists, containing words and definitions.
Someone who eats and drinks to excess, or who overindulges in a particular behavior.
For Terri to keep misbehaving like that, she must be a glutton for punishment.
To provoke, invite, stimulate, urge, or prod, especially toward a specific action. Originally, the word meant a pointed stick used to prod animals.
As a form of initiation, or hazing, members of the football team would goad freshmen into running naked across the field.
Something or someone large in size and stature; giant. When capitalized, refers to the biblical giant who was slain by David with a sling and stone.
The goliath sundae, made with four flavors of ice cream and five toppings, was too large for one person to finish.
Someone who conducts a conversation about personal or intimate rumors or facts, especially those that are malicious to and about others.
Stacie was a notorious gossipmonger, yet she still had the ears of many in the twelfth grade.
A series of gradual and progressive degrees, steps, or stages. A move that is made in measured, distinct stages. Gradation is gradual progress, and not to be confused with graduation, which is often the result of a four-year process.
The gradation of colors in the sunset covered the whole range of the spectrum.
The use of dishonest or illegal means to gain money or property, often by someone in a position of power or elected office. Personal profit made in an illicit way because of official standing.
The game had been sold out for months, and the mayor’s easy acquisition of choice tickets led to whisperings of graft in the administration.
The quality of being great, grand, or very impressive; extravagance in scale or appearance.
The grandeur of Buckingham Palace impresses all who have the honor to visit.
A pompous or lofty manner of speech. Bombast; language that is full of long, pretentious words. Also an attitude of haughtiness.
Politicians in love with their own grandiloquence may not always be good at solving problems and keeping campaign promises.
Pretentious, pompous, and imposing. Can be used to describe pretensions or ambitions that go beyond abilities or means.
It is surprising when grandiose schemes become realities, but that is why so many reach for the stars.
Unnecessary, out of place, excessive, and unjustifiable. Received or given without payment or charge.
Gratuitous violence and nudity has become prevalent in movies and video games.
A serious and solemn attitude or way of behaving.
A funeral is an appropriate place for gravitas.
Very friendly, sociable, outgoing, or cordial; happy in the company of others.
Gregarious individuals are often suspected of having hidden agendas when they are really just being friendly.
Gruesomely unpleasant or creating a sense of horror. Not to be confused with grizzly, which is a type of bear.
Seeing grizzlies eating the carcasses of their prey is a grisly sight.
To act in a servile way. To show exaggerated and false respect, intending to please or out of fear. To crawl or lie face down in humility or fear.
Prisoners were forced to grovel before their guards, fearing torture and abuse if they did not.
A loud and raucous laugh.
Robert’s guffaw was embarrassing to his wife, so she grimaced whenever they went to a humorous play.
Cunning, deceitful, and treacherous quality or type of behavior. Skill and cleverness used to trick, deceive, or mislead people.
No matter how smart you think you are, you are no match for the guile of an experienced street con seeking to separate you from your money.
Haggard — This words originates with the 3,000-year-old sport of falconry. A haggard bird is one trapped as an adult and very difficult to train, unlike a bird captured as a nestling. The word came to mean a wild, intractable person, and it later took on the meaning of a terrified, anxious, or exhausted expression on a human face. This finally evolved to mean gaunt, drawn, wasted, or exhausted.
Made commonplace, less significant, and stale by overuse or common use. Strictly, refers either to a carriage for hire or to a horse suited only for routine riding or driving.
Soap operas are now hackneyed caricatures of dramas appearing on television daily.
Showing signs of tiredness, anxiety, or hunger. Wild and unruly in appearance.
After a twelve-hour shift at the hospital, anyone would look haggard.
Tranquil, prosperous, carefree; free from disturbance The word also refers to a bird related to the kingfisher, which in myth could calm ocean storms.
The company’s halcyon years were behind it; all was in chaos now.
In robust good health. Used most often in the phrase “hale and hardy.”A robust word to use in writing or speech.
After recovering from a bout of flu, Mitch was finally feeling hale again.
A formal and fancy way of referring to very bad breath. If you use this word about your friend it might not embarrass him as much; on the other hand, if he had used a mint, you wouldn’t have to use this word at all.
Knowing about Skip’s halitosis, I decided to wait for the next elevator after I saw him get on one.
A mark showing something is of high quality, or one identifying purity of certain metals or the maker of specific crafted items. A feature of something that distinguishes it from similar items. No, it’s not just a type of greeting card. The hallmark of Mark’s hall was an amazing mural.
Each college has a building that serves as a hallmark of that institution.
Hallmark — These “marks of excellence on products,” originated as the official stamp of the Goldsmiths’ Company of London. In 1300, Edward I ordered that all gold and silver be struck with such a mark to indicate its purity. They were called hallmarks because the stamping was done at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London.
To make someone or something holy. To have great respect or reverence, the highest possible honor for a person or thing.
Many football fans hallow the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field where the Green Bay Packers play.
The tendency to judge someone as being totally good because one particular aspect of his or her character is good, or because those around him or her are also good.
The halo effect helps us assume that young men and women who sing in church choirs and participate in church youth groups are free of behavioral problems, but it’s not always true.
A small village or group of houses, homesteads, or households. Not just the name of Shakespeare’s melancholy Dane. If you describe certain residences as a hamlet, it will be quite quaint and impress your readers or listeners.
During their summer trip to North Carolina, the Harrisons visited many hamlets and stayed at some phenomenal bed-and-breakfast inns.
Happening or done in a way not planned; irregular; governed by chance. Something not guided by a regular or predetermined method. Haphazard golfers often happen to be in a hazard.
After several rounds using a haphazard approach to the game, Mark decided that golf lessons were definitely in order.
Unlucky, unfortunate, or inauspicious. Haphazard hunters may appear hapless, but a little planning may give them better luck.
High school freshmen seem so hapless during the first few weeks of school, but they later appear more confident.
To rant. To criticize or question in a very loud, forceful or angry way. To scold sternly, often openly in public. It’s embarrassing when harangued about poorly baked meringue.
Peter’s parents would regularly harangue him regarding inappropriate dress and behavior, but it never seemed to help.
Someone or something that brings about a major change. One that foreshadows or anticipates something still to come.
Employment figures are accepted as harbingers of economic trends and, during election years, of political success or failure.
Superior, condescending, or arrogant. Rather than using the “B” word, it’s more polite to describe someone as haughty.
The haughty behavior of those who were members of the country club was not appreciated by their friends.
Traditional, classic, high-quality French cooking or general gourmet preparation of food. Can refer to the preparation of meals like artwork.
Gourmets, though not necessarily gourmands, prefer haute cuisine, because they believe more in quality rather than quantity.
Stands for “hazardous material.” The label given a team of professionals who deal with hazardous material.
More than ever, HAZMAT training and team members are critical.
Describing information that is heard from other people, and not from the person or persons who made the original statement. Information gained from another party, not as a result of observing the original action.
Hearsay evidence is not admissible in a court of law.
Control or dominating influence by one person or group over others; dominance. Most often the dominance of one political group over society, or one nation over another. Predominant influence, especially in reference to the affairs of nations. To say one nation practices hegemony over another is to suggest that it exercises undue influence over conduct, mores, or administration within that nation.
England has throughout history been accused of trying to achieve hegemony, particularly with regard to past members of the British Empire.
Shockingly wicked, evil, or reprehensible. Far exceeding the norms of morality.
Because of the heinous nature of terrorist attacks, the world has united against those committing these evil acts.
Something valuable handed down from one generation to the next. An item that is a part of an estate, with a legal heir to inherit it. An ancient hair loom, used to make hair rugs, could be a valued heirloom.
The cameo brooch that Mrs. Powell wore was an heirloom passed on by her grandmother to her mother and from her mother to her.
The practice of creating coats of arms and determining those who are entitled to bear them. Coats of arms and symbols associated with specific birth rights. Pomp and ceremony.
The study of medieval heraldry can be fascinating.
Eating only grass and plants, not meat. An antonym of carnivorous.
Even herbivorous dinosaurs would have been intimidating by virtue of their size, though not necessarily their eating habits.
Strong and powerful; relating to or resembling Hercules. Daunting, formidable, extremely difficult, requiring a great deal of strength, stamina, effort, or resources.
The herculean efforts of the 1969 Mets to win the World Series will go down in baseball history.
History presented from a feminist perspective or with an emphasis on the point of view of women. The study or recording of life experiences, achievements, or ambitions of a particular woman or group of women. A new word that originated in the feminist lexicon, yet is now commonly used.
The herstory of the women’s suffrage movement is in many ways the story of Susan B. Anthony’s life.
Consisting of unrelated parts or elements. Different and not related.
While admissions offices do admit many students with similar profiles, a college is still a heterogeneous and diverse community.
The time of someone’s or something’s greatest popularity, success, or power.
While it was thought that the 1960s were the heyday of the bell-bottom, this fashion trend seems to be making a revival today.
A break in something where there should be continuity; an interruption or gap.
After his refusal to submit to the draft and his long hiatus from boxing, Muhammad Ali returned to the ring and won back the heavyweight title.
An organization or group with members arranged by ranks, in order of seniority or power. Categorization by order of importance or status. A normal chain of command. Originally referred to the division of angels into ranks.
The military hierarchy is clear and obvious by title and uniform.
The realization or analysis of an event after it has happened. Perception of the past, in retrospect.
Hindsight is twenty-twenty, and lessons learned by analyzing history should prove valuable when planning for the future.
Overdramatic in reaction or behavior; theatrical. Related to acting or actors.
The histrionics associated with two adolescents breaking up is hard for adults to deal with.
Acronym for “human immunodeficiency virus.” Refers to a retrovirus that destroys the immune system and causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).
Although we are working hard to discover a cure for HIV, we must continue to be careful about sexually transmitted diseases.
To trick someone into believing something is real when it is not.
They hoaxed us by burying false fossils in the old excavation site.
Involving all of something; specifically, all of someone’s physical, mental, and social conditions, not just the physical when treating an illness.
Holistic medicine, addressing all contributing factors of illness, is increasingly popular.
Show of reverence, honor, and respect; a formal public acknowledgment, reverence, allegiance, or honor.
By visiting the lacrosse hall of fame, the team paid homage to the sport they played.
A primate belonging to a particular biological family, all extinct except for modern human beings. Humans and their ancestors.
The more archeologists and anthropologists study, the more they agree that Africa was the birthplace of hominids.
A word that sounds and is spelled the same as another word but with a different meaning.
“Tee fore too” and “tea for two” are phrases full of homonyms.
Excessive pride or arrogance. The excessive pride and ambition that often leads to the downfall of a hero in a classical tragedy. Hubris can refer to the “fatal flaw” of ancient Greek drama, or, generally, to any disproportionate pride or self-love.
It was clear that the immaturity and hubris displayed by many dot-com millionaires led to the downfall of their companies and the financial woes of many shareholders.
Deliberate and obvious exaggeration used for effect; an extravagant overstatement.
The hyperbole associated with being worth one’s weight in gold is one that some would like to test in reality.
Dangerously low body temperature caused by prolonged exposure to cold; extreme loss of body heat. From the Greek for “below heat.”
Most of the fatalities associated with the sinking of the Titanic were as a result of hypothermia.
Someone who lives or was born or raised in Spain or Portugal, or one who lived on the Iberian Peninsula.
While Iberians share a common geography, those from Spain and Portugal want to be perceived as a unique people.
A simple symbol of Christianity that resembles a fish, consisting of two curves that bisect each other.
People sometimes put ichthus bumper stickers on their cars, often to let others know they are born-again Christians.
Someone who challenges or overturns traditional customs, beliefs, and values.
Iconoclasts are always controversial, and often they are perceived as dangerous.
Iconoclast — This word for a debunker, one who attacks cherished beliefs, dates from the time of Byzantine emperor Leo III, who in 726 began a program of destroying icons, or images, in churches because he believed his people actually worshipped the icons, not the religious figures they represented. The monks fanatically opposed Leo and called him, among other things, an iconoclast, “image breaker.”
A closely organized system of beliefs, values, and ideas, especially one that forms the basis of a social, economic, or political philosophy. A system of thought that shapes the way an individual group thinks, acts, and views the world. Not to be confused with idolatry, the worship of idols or false gods, or the extreme admiration or fanatical devotion to someone or something.
For some extreme fans, Star Trek is the foundation of an ideology and not just a science fiction television show.
A phrase whose usage is peculiar to a particular language, in terms of grammar or in meaning. An expression whose meaning cannot be figured out from the grammatical combination of individual words, such as “He puts me in stitches.” The way of using a language that comes naturally to native speakers and involves knowledge of grammar and usage.
For the recent immigrant from Brazil, idioms such as “beating a dead horse” were quite difficult to understand and sometimes rather disturbing.
Serenely beautiful, untroubled, and happy. Like an idyll, which is a scene, event, or experience characterized by tranquility and simple beauty.
As they arrived at the bed and breakfast at sunset, it seemed an idyllic place to stay for their honeymoon.
Characterized by a total loss of dignity and pride; shamefully weak, ineffective, or disgraceful. Used to describe public humiliation or failure.
Richard Nixon’s ignominious resignation of the presidency will forever remind those in high office to be honest and not cover up errors in judgment.
An idiot, dolt, or someone who is ignorant.
Someone who ignores his studying may not be smart, but he should not be called an ignoramus.
Not allowed by law; wrong, unacceptable by prevailing standards; illegal or morally unjustifiable.
Gains acquired by illicit activities often yield more guilt than wealth.
To drink something, especially alcohol or alcoholic beverages. To take in or absorb something into the mind, like an idea. It’s hard to thrive when you regularly imbibe.
Although it sounds better to say “imbibe” and “inebriated,” you might just as well say “booze it up” and “drunk.”
A confusing, messy, or complicated situation, especially one that involves disagreement or intrigue. An entanglement or complicated misunderstanding. Describes a delicate situation from which it is difficult to extricate oneself.
Soap opera characters become entangled in one imbroglio after another, never learning from their mistakes.
To saturate something with a substance, particularly a liquid or dye. To make something or someone rich with a particular quality, or to transmit an idea, feeling, or emotion.
Good teachers seek to imbue students with the love of learning in addition to facts and subject knowledge.
Someone who comes to a country to settle there. Sounds like its antonym, emigrant, which is someone who leaves a place, especially his or her native land, to live in another country.
Almost every American immigrant dreams of success, wealth, and happiness.
About to happen, or threatening to happen. Not to be confused with its homonym, immanent, which means existing within or inherent in something, extending to all parts of the created world.
Everyone knew that the victory was imminent, so they left the game early.
Not changing, or not able to be changed.
Some believe that criminals are truly immutable and cannot change their ways.
Not capable of being perceived with the sense of touch, or not capable of being perceived by the senses. Difficult to understand or grasp; difficult to perceive or interpret.
The impalpable dark left him with only the vague impression that someone else had just left the room.
To give or bestow a particular quality upon something. To communicate information or knowledge.
Professor Green daily sought to impart wisdom to his students.
A point or situation with no solution, or when no further progress can be made or agreement reached. A situation that seems to offer no solution or escape. A road or passage that has no way out: literally, a dead-end street or passage.
The research team’s efforts had come to an impasse, so they brought in new members to inspire innovative approaches.
To charge a government official with serious misconduct while in office. To remove an official, including a president, from public office for having committed high crimes and misdemeanors. To make an accusation against, challenge the validity of, or discredit someone or some document.
It is the responsibility of a good attorney to impeach the credibility of witnesses, although it often appears to be an aggressive and mean-spirited strategy.
Perfect, flawless; beyond criticism or sin. From the Latin for “without sin.”
While we may expect all priests to be morally impeccable, recent events prove that even they are human.
Absolutely necessary, unavoidable, obligatory, or mandatory. Forceful and demanding obedience and respect.
As the fire swept closer, it became imperative to evacuate.
Boldness or rudeness; brash behavior showing a shocking lack of respect for a superior. Disrespectful action or comment. Inappropriate to a particular matter or issue.
Too often confused with courage, impertinence is unacceptable in most circumstances.
Remaining unmoved and unaffected by other’s opinions or actions. Impossible to alter or affect; incapable of being diverted from a given course.
Everyone knows Superman was impervious to pain, except that caused by Kryptonite.
Tending to act on the spur of the moment, without consideration of consequences. Impulsive; passionate. Characterized by great force and energy.
Some believe the phrase “impetuous youth” is redundant, for acting without thinking is one way to define adolescence.
The energy or motivation behind an accomplishment or undertaking. The force that causes the motion of an object to overcome resistance and maintain velocity.
The impetus for Jorge’s business successes seemed to be a quest for his father’s approval.
To strike or run into something, with force. To have an effect on something. Also, to encroach upon the limits of something, especially a right or law; to cause some kind of restriction.
Censorship most definitely impinges on the right of free speech, which is why we hold the first amendment sacred.
To show that someone or something played a part in or is connected to an activity, such as a crime. To imply or involve something as a consequence.
Being at the scene of the vandalism wouldn’t necessarily implicate anyone, but it would cast suspicion and motivate investigators to look further.
Implied or understood, though not expressed directly. An understanding that parties abide by but do not set out in specific language.
They had an implicit agreement not to bring up the subject of their huge fight of the year before.
To beg or pray for something fervently. To plead urgently.
No matter how Bob implored her, the teacher would not allow him to make up the exam.
Showing no care, forethought, or judgment. Lacking discretion. As a teenager, even dear Prudence was imprudent, always acting without thinking. (Not to be confused with impudent, which means lacking modesty, being contemptuous, or cocky.)
Buying cigarettes and alcohol for her teenage friends was certainly imprudent, as well as illegal and improper.
To suggest that someone or something cannot be trusted. To challenge someone’s honesty or motives. Not to be confused with the next entry, impunity, which sounds alike but basically means “unable to be impugned.”
The defense attorney sought to impugn the prosecutor’s witness.
Exemption from punishment, harm, penalty, or recrimination.
It is feared that possessing wealth is the same as possessing impunity.
An artificial environment, such as a test tube, rather than inside a living organism. Describes an egg that is fertilized outside of the mother and then implanted in the womb.
In vitro fertilization is a miraculous procedure for those who thought they would never be able to conceive a child.
Having little sense or importance; empty, vacuous, unsubstantial, pointless, or lacking in meaning.
Inane comments are best ignored, even if they are made by someone who should know better.
Impossible to deny or take an opposing view from. The position of most parents, when a teenager comes home hours after curfew.
Alex’s assertions regarding who manufactured a particular car model were inarguable.
Suggesting that the future is not very promising or that success is unlikely. Marked by a sign of some kind that things might not work out as well as planned.
The inauspicious beginning of their trip was marked by a speeding ticket and a flat tire, making them fear what would next go wrong.
Inauspicious — Like many words used today, this word, meaning “unlikely to lead to success,” made its debut in the works of Shakespeare. In Romeo and Juliet, Romeo cries: “Here, here, will I remain. And shake the yoke of inauspicious stars. From this world-wearied flesh.” Shakespeare probably invented inauspicious, as he did auspicious (in The Tempest), meaning favorable, marked by lucky signs or good omens, conducive to success. Its roots are in the Latin auspex, a corruption of avispex, for the Roman bird-watcher who deduced omens from the flight of birds.
Describes the deliberate burning of property. Designed to excite or inflame, as in causing civil unrest. Able to catch fire spontaneously or easily.
His incendiary remarks were certainly not necessary, as the crowd was already emotionally charged.
Continuing unstopped for a long time. From the Latin roots for “without end.”
The children’s incessant singing on the bus gave the teacher and chaperone headaches.
Beginning to appear or develop; at an early stage. Sounds like and shares a root with inception, the beginning of something.
Incipient bad behavior of puppies must be addressed quickly, as it quickly becomes difficult to change their habits.
Quick to understand, analyze, or act. Sharp in analysis, observation, or action; from the Latin for “cutting.”
Matt’s incisive essay earned him an A, and it assured him a great grade point average for the semester.
With one’s identity disguised or hidden, as when using a false name. Describes the action of taking an assumed name or intentionally changing appearance and hiding from public recognition by making one’s real identity unknown.
Rock stars, actors, and other famous people wear sunglasses and hats, seeking to be incognito at restaurants; these disguises rarely work, though, and they are often recognized.
Unsuitable, strange, not matching. Out of place in a particular context or setting; discordant. If you attended a formal wearing jeans with holes, you could say you felt incongruous, or you are a teen who shopped at Aber-crombie.
The mourner’s smiles and giggles were completely incongruous at the funeral.
Certain, undeniable, and not open to question or controversy. Impossible to dispute; unquestionable.
The district attorney attempted to present incontrovertible proof of the defendant’s guilt.
Impossible to correct or reform. Very difficult to control or keep in order. If you babysit often, you probably have lots of opportunities to use this word.
It’s premature to call a challenging kindergartener incorrigible, but those who had dealt with Katie were greatly tempted to do so.
Unable or unwilling to believe something. Unconvinced, or demonstrating disbelief. This is a look you’ve seen often on your parents’ faces; now you know what to call it.
The teenager was incredulous when accused of cheating, for he was a good student.
To fix something firmly in someone’s mind using frequent and forceful repetition. To teach by means of repetition or instruction. To impress an idea upon someone with urging or earnest example.
Police use “scared straight” strategies with at-risk youth, inculcating them with lessons related to the negative consequences of their actions, and instilling the fear of incarceration.
To incriminate someone or put the blame for something on someone. Blame for a wrongdoing.
Motive and opportunity are two of the critical factors determined to inculpate suspects for murder.
Never showing signs of getting tired, or of relaxing an effort; unyielding stamina.
Michael Jordan seemed indefatigable, playing as hard in the fourth quarter as he did in the first.
Lazy, lethargic, not showing interest in making an effort, as a way of life. Inactive and unlikely to exert oneself. Also used to describe a disease or condition that is slow to develop or heal, yet causes no pain. “Indolent adolescent” seems a little redundant.
Indolent youths don’t participate in athletics or in anything else.
To cause someone to become drunk or intoxicated; to make excited or exhilarated.
Prior to the state championship game, the anticipation and excitement inebriated all of the players.
Incapable of being expressed in words; indescribable. To an extreme degree or unbelievable degree. Also describes things or subjects that should not be spoken of.
John Kennedy’s ineffable charisma as projected via the first-ever televised debate was credited by some as a reason he won the close 1960 presidential election.
Unyielding. Something that is stubborn or unwavering is inexorable. This is a good word to describe the power of a chocolate chip cookie over the average chocoholic.
“The inexorable advance of our troops,” the Union general said happily, “will complicate things for Mr. Davis.”
Incapable of being explained, justified, or interpreted. For someone who is not a chocoholic, the power of chocolate is inexplicable.
Peter’s failure to show up for his final exam was inexplicable.
Incapable of making a mistake. Certain not to fail. Beyond error in religious matters of doctrine or dogma.
Those who believe computers are infallible have never had a software virus.
To conclude something on the basis of evidence or reasoning. To suggest or lead to a conclusion. Too often confused with imply, which means to make something understood without expressing it directly.
You can infer from her absence that she does not support the actions of her neighbors to remove the old oak trees.
The foundation or structure of a system or organization. The large-scale public systems, services, and facilities of a country or region necessary for economic activity. The essential primary components of a system, organization, or structure.
A city’s infrastructure influences its potential for future growth and greatness, or decline and failure.
To try to gain someone’s favor, especially in order to gain an advantage. Sounds like but not the same as ingrate, a person who does not show or express gratitude.
When he first met his fiancée’s parents, Chuck tried to ingratiate himself with his future father-in-law.
An innate characteristic of something; intrinsic or essential to something. Not to be confused with inherit, which means to become an owner of something when someone dies, in accordance with terms of a will.
Dwayne’s inherent reluctance to entrust newcomers with tasks of any significance was a major problem for the company.
Characteristic or quality possessed at birth; inborn or central to a person.
Lana’s ability to do mathematics problems since early childhood seemed innate.
Not intended to cause offense or provoke a strong reaction. Lacking conflict or drama. Harmless, of minimal significance, interest, or prominence.
Teasing is thought to be innocuous, until someone gets angry and fighting begins.
Hard to interpret because something is not expressed obviously. Dense or difficult to understand or to decipher.
The Mona Lisa’s inscrutable smile has inspired eclectic emotions and thoughts in those privileged to view the painting.
Dull, lacking in vigor and character. Used to describe bland ideas, personalities, or works of art. From the Latin for “without taste.”
The film critic seemed to describe most movies as insipid, so readers hoped he was not accurate all the time.
Showing aggressive lack of respect; rude and arrogant in speech or behavior or disrespectful.
Many adolescent boys appear insolent, when some are just naturally challenging authority.
Unable to pay debts. Related to people or businesses that are bankrupt.
It sounds so much nicer to say “I’m insolvent,” rather than “I’m broke,” but they mean the same.
Something that stimulates creative thoughts and actions, or the making of a work of art. A sudden brilliant idea. Someone or something that inspires somebody. Divine guidance and influence.
Some idiosyncratic artists think procrastination precedes inspiration.
Someone who rebels against authority or leadership. Refers especially to those involved in an uprising against a government. Member of a political party who rebels against party leaders or policies.
The government admitted that some parts of the country were under the control of insurgents.
The act of pleading on someone’s behalf. The attempt to settle a dispute; mediation of a conflict by acting or speaking in someone’s behalf.
The coach’s quick intercession stopped the fight before anyone from either team was ejected.
To insert something, often unnecessary, between two elements. To add comments or extra words to a written text or conversation, altering or falsifying its meaning. To estimate the value of a mathematical function that lies between known values, usually done by projecting graph points.
Actuaries use statistics to interpolate customers’ potential life expectancy, and that’s how they figure out how much to charge for an insurance policy.
A firm, unyielding, or unreasonable refusal to even consider changing a decision or attitude. Being uncompromising, beyond appeal or negotiation. This word might describe your parents when you suggest a new motorcycle for the purposes of transportation.
The intransigence of the union negotiators meant that the strike would continue.
Belonging to something as a basic and essential element. By itself, rather than because of an association or consequences. Essential in nature; fundamental in character.
The intrinsic conflict between good and evil is a constant theme in literature.
State of being aware of or knowing something through direct insight without any reasoning. Something believed or known instinctively without tangible evidence. Immediate knowledge of something.
Martin’s intuition inspired him to buy an initial public offering of a stock that quickly rose greatly in value.
A flood of water. Also, an overwhelming amount of things to deal with.
The newlyweds returned home to an inundation of family and friends who wanted to see them, but they wanted some time alone.
Abusive expression, or language used to denounce, attack, or blame someone. Extremely harsh speech or writing.
Angry over being charged with a foul, the basketball team’s best player shouted invectives at the referee, and he was immediately ejected from the game.
The use of words to suggest the opposite of their literal meaning, often used in humor. Something that happens that is not what might be expected, especially when it seems absurd, laughable or coincidental. That you can’t iron iron could be called an irony.
The irony was that even as leaders of the former Soviet Union protested American capitalism, Levi jeans were the hottest and most expensive items on Moscow’s black market.
Lacking in respect. Displaying behavior that is disrespectful. A reverend is rarely irreverent.
Irreverent comedians often use words that are considered expletives.
An instance or the act of repeating something. A series of steps that is repeated to get closer to a desired outcome. A different version of something, as in a newer version of a video game.
After several iterations, the chefs found the best recipe for chocolate cheesecake.
Uninteresting and intellectually undemanding. Dull or lackluster. Can also mean lacking in sophistication or insight. Lacking proper nourishment. Not very fertile.
Many of those taking their first music lessons have jejune dreams of fame, fortune, and standing room only gigs.
Zealous patriotism, especially in hostility toward other countries. Aggressive and overbearing patriotism; blindly nationalistic.
Jingoism usually manifests at times of war or just prior to war.
Jingoism — A refrain from a British music hall song that urged Great Britain to fight the Russians and prevent them from taking Constantinople goes: “We don’t want to fight, yet by Jingo, if we do, we’ve got the ships, we’ve got the men, and the money, too.”This is the origin of this expression for “chauvinism or excessive patriotism.” Jingo is a euphemism for “by Jesus” that dates back to the late seventeenth century.
The corrupt practice of making private gains from public office. This one’s easy to remember: Jobbery is robbery by a politician.
The senator was accused of jobbery by his opponent, yet he was never charged formally.
Having a playful, joking disposition. Intended to be funny; made in jest.
Stan’s always jocular behavior and attitude was out of place during serious times.
Energy and love of life. Originally a French phrase, but now commonly used in English.
The joie de vivre she demonstrated in the most difficult circumstances was an inspiration to everyone around her.
Cheerful in mood or disposition. Synonymous with jocular, and another way to say happy and funny.
Winning that much money on a lottery ticket would certainly put anyone in a jovial mood.
Jovial— Derived from the Latin jovialis, of or pertaining to Jupiter or Jove, the chief god of the Romans (equivalent of the Greek god Zeus). Describing a hearty, merry person, it is said to have been first used by British author Gabriel Harvey in about 1590. At least, Thomas Nash claimed Harvey invented the word, along with conscious, extensively, idiom, notoriety, and rascality— all of which Nash disliked and said would not last.
Showing wisdom, good sense, or discretion, often with the intention of avoiding trouble or waste.
Since his earlier troubles, Jonah was very judicious whenever he partied with friends.
A force that is relentlessly destructive and that crushes all obstacles in its way.
The Green Bay Packers of the early 1960s were considered a professional football juggernaut.
Group of military officers who have taken control of a county following a coup. A small group secretly assembled for a common goal.
During difficult economic times, leaders of young democracies are fearful of military juntas.
The authority to enforce laws or pronounce legal judgments; power or authority generally.
Judge Judy’s jurisdiction seemed to reach far beyond specific geographic boundaries.
An expert in the science or philosophy of law, especially a judge or legal scholar. Not to be confused with juror,who is someone sworn to an oath to serve on a jury.
All Supreme Court justices are jurists and legal scholars beyond question.
To build something in a makeshift way, or fit something with makeshift equipment. Despite including the word jury,the term has nothing to do with law.
Stranded in the desert, the team had to jury-rig tools and parts to repair the truck when it broke down.
To place (or pose) two or more things together, side by side for comparison and contrast, or to suggest a link between them.
Juxtaposed, the pictures of Jay and his son showed an amazing family resemblance.
Related to, typical of, or similar to the work of Franz Kafka, a writer whose novels and plays were quite complicated and often disturbing. Overly complex, seemingly pointless, and impersonal. If you use this word, you’ll sound smart, especially if you know who Kafka is and if you’ve read one of his works. How about The Metamorphosis?
Her short story had a very Kafkaesque atmosphere, but it still wasn’t very good.
An unofficial court that is set up on the spot to deliver a judgment that had already been decided in advance. A situation when someone is prejudged and unable to receive a fair hearing or trial. From history, when those convicted of crimes were sent from Britain to Australia, where this large leaping animal is indigenous.
Recently, a defense attorney was placed in jail for referring to the proceedings as a kangaroo court.
A small item or gift kept to evoke memories of something, an event, or someone.
Before she left for college, Samantha gave her mom the tassel from her high school graduation cap as a keepsake.
A reaction that is quick and violent, as when a chainsaw bites into metal.
Also money received illegally in return for a secret agreement (also usually illegal).
The contractor was accused of taking kickbacks from suppliers who charged excessive prices.
Pertaining to, caused by, or producing motion. Kinetic energy is the energy associated with the movement of a system or body.
Alexander Calder is credited for inventing the mobile, a kinetic sculpture with hanging pieces that move and flow.
To kneel with forehead touching the ground to worship or show respect. To be extremely submissive to please someone in authority.
Prior to the French Revolution, all citizens would kowtow to anyone who was royal, for fear of punishment or death.
Kowtow — The Chinese k’-o-t’ou, spelled in English as kowtow, means “know your head” — that is, to kneel and bow before a superior by touching the floor with your forehead. Mandarins required the k’-o-t’ouof their “inferiors.” Explorers visiting China at the end of the nineteenth century brought back the word. To kowtowto someone has come to mean to act in an obsequious and groveling way — that is, doing pretty much everything short of touching your head on the floor.
Praise, credit, glory, honor or accolades for an achievement. A black belt in judo earns tons of kudos.
Kudos were offered to all graduates at the commencement ceremony and during the receptions that followed it.
Requiring a great deal of effort. Showing signs of effort or difficulty, rather than easy, naturalness, or fluency.
Most high school boys find any work, no matter how hard or long it is, to be laborious.
A maze or maze-like structure. In Greek mythology, the maze designed by Daedalus for King Minos of Crete to confine the Minotaur.
The hallways of the new high school seemed like a labyrinth to the new freshmen, and many became lost on their first days.
Using very few words; concise or terse writing or speech.
A laconic politician is hard to find, so if you can identify a candidate who is concise and honest, vote for him or her.
Someone who or something that falls behind and does not keep up with others. One who lags behind or loiters. Most often used as a negative description.
It was insensitive and unprofessional of the teacher to refer to those who were falling behind in the difficult mathematics class as laggards.
The principle that the best economy is one that does not regulate private industry and leaves markets free. Noninterference in the affairs of others; letting others do as they wish.
Ironically, many who believe in economical laissez-faire often support governmental interference in the affairs of other nations.
Followers of a religion who are not clergy; lay persons. All who are not members of a specific profession.
The laity of the Catholic Church is growing more and more independent and less likely to follow the dictates of the Pope.
To criticize someone or something severely; to reprimand sharply or attack verbally. To beat or whip someone. Originally meant “to beat harshly.”
Teenagers are lambasted for staying out past curfew so commonly that it might be called a rite of passage.
Lacking vigor and energy. Listless, indifferent, sluggish, or slow.
Those who are frequently languid may be suffering from some malady or disability.
To undergo hardship as a result of being deprived of something, typically independence, attention, or freedom. To decline steadily, becoming less vital, strong, or successful. To long for something being denied.
Famous musicians often languished for years in obscurity before being discovered and catapulted overnight to stardom.
Generous gifts, often in the form of money or favors. The gifts given as a result of someone’s generosity. Generosity in spirit or attitude; a generous nature. Largish gifts reveal largess of givers.
The largess of wealthy individuals is often surprising, for some believe them to be less than generous.
Not strict, tight, or tense; not easily controlled. Lacking attention to detail.
After the investigation it was concluded that Bob had been lax when inspecting the bridge for structural faults.
Well-educated and very knowledgeable. Describes behavior or knowledge that is acquired through training.
The learned scholar was greatly respected among those who studied anthropology.
A university lecturer or one who reads passages from the Bible to a congregation at a service, or during a meal.
The lector stood very formally, in academic regalia, ready to deliver the annual lecture on abstinence and temperance.
Acronym for “light-emitting diode.” A semiconductor that emits light when a current passes through it. Used as indicators on electronic devices.
Once a novelty,LED displays in automobiles are now standard equipment.
Relating to or involving skills or knowledge that is analytical or linguistic, believed associated with the left half of the cerebrum.
Left-brain thought was required for mathematics exams, while right-brain effort was required for the music appreciation tests.
The principles of the Left; liberal, socialist, or communist political and social movements or reform.
It seems that conservatives are always accusing those who disagree with them of leftism.
Money or property that is left someone in a will. Something handed down that remains in a family from a previous generation or time.
The classic Model T Ford is a legacy passed down within the family from its original owner, great-grandfather Joseph.
Punishment, judgment, or action that is not too severe. Personal quality of being lenient and forgiving; mercy.
The suspect admitted his guilt, hoping that it would lead to leniency at sentencing.
Sluggish; inactive to such a degree as to resemble sleep or unconsciousness. A lethargic person is difficult to rouse to action.
After many long hours of work, Pat and Corey were lethargic but still unable to accept the necessity of calling it a night.
Large beast or sea monster, originally from the Bible. Something extremely large and powerful in comparison to others of its kind. A whale or other large sea animal.
Cruise ships are getting bigger and bigger, appearing as leviathans as they move across the ocean’s horizon.
Remarks or behavior intended to be amusing, usually out of keeping with a serious situation. Light-hearted comments or behavior.
Sometimes levity is a way of relieving the anxiety of a crisis situation.
A reference book composed of an alphabetized listing of words and meaning, especially one dealing with a specific, narrowly defined audience or ancient language. Lexicon can also mean the entire collection of words associated with a specific discipline or group.
The lexicon of rap music seems a different language to many parents, but it is an adaptation of street English.
An exchange of information among separate groups or individuals. A person responsible for maintaining communication between one group and another.
An intimate, romantic relationship between unmarried people.
Nurse Sheffield was appointed to be the pediatric department’s liaison with the transplant unit.
An alcoholic beverage offered or accepted in celebration. Originally, pouring out of liquid such as wine or oil as a sacrifice to a god or in honor of the dead in a religious ceremony. In other words, a fancy way of saying “shot” or “chug.”
Some think it is adult to consume a libation every evening, and others think it quite immature.
A theory found in both economics and in politics. In economics, it emphasizes the freedom of the individual consumer and of the market. In politics, it is founded on the protection of civil liberties and on a belief in progress toward a better society.
Economic and social liberalism are not at all the same things.
Sexual drive. The psychic and emotional energy associated with basic human instincts, including the sex drive.
The libido of adolescents is sometimes difficult to understand and to control.
Lacking restraint when it comes to pursuing desires aggressively and selfishly, including those of a sexual nature. Unchecked by morality.
Wealth and power are not acceptable excuses for licentious behavior.
A responsive prayer marked by much repetition. A long and repetitious list of things such as complaints or problems.
Whenever his father got angry, Brad had to listen to the entire litany of his faults.
Having the ability to read and write. Well educated; skilled and cultured, particularly in regard to literature and writing. A good understanding of a particular subject.
Literate students are a teacher’s delight.
Overly inclined to quarrel and argue. Tending to engage in lawsuits. Related to litigation.
It’s difficult to say how much attorneys have promoted the litigious trends apparent today, or whether they are the responsibility of society in general.
Discolored, as in a bruise. Also a change from normal coloring, whether from a lack of it or an excess. Very angry.
Justin’s father was livid when he found out his son was buying alcohol with a counterfeit driver’s license.
To attempt to persuade a political representative or influential person to support a fight, particular cause, or specific vote. Guess how this activity got its name? From where it usually happened — in the lobby prior to a vote.
The firearms lobby in the United States is so strong that it has always managed to defeat most gun control legislation.
A phrase or expression typically used by a group of people. The way someone or some groups speak; style of speaking. Also a particular word, expression, or phrase.
Because Jacqueline was unfamiliar with this group’s particular locutions, much of what they said was odd to her.
Tending to talk a great deal. Extremely talkative. Someone prone to nervous chatter could be said to be loquacious.
It was difficult to tell whether Julia’s loquacious behavior was caused by nervousness, or whether she always spoke incessantly.
Clear and easily understood; intelligible. Rational and mentally clear. Also means filled with light.
After the accident Alex was lucid for a while, but he soon lost consciousness and his friends feared the worst.
Utterly ridiculous, absurd, incongruous, implausible, impractical, or unsuitable.
It’s ludicrous to expect that teenagers will behave all of the time, in all circumstances.
Extremely sad or gloomy. Lugubrious describes someone who is mournful to an inappropriate degree. Realizing that you’re ludicrous may make you lugubrious.
It was too bad that the football team lost in the season finale, but it doesn’t really justify going around with a lugubrious expression for weeks afterward.
An eminent or famous person. A glowing object, especially a celestial body that emits light.
Crowds at the Academy Awards hope to see a luminary arriving for the ceremonies.
Emitting light produced by means other than heat.
Luminescent paint that glows under special lights was popular in the 1960s.
Gruesome or sensationalistic. Causing horror, lust, shock, or disgust. Lurid movies are a lure to certain viewers, especially men in their late teens and early twenties.
The lurid details of the prison abuses were discussed widely, but few pictures were shown on television.
Radiant; shining; having a sheen or glow. Brilliant, outstanding, or exceptional.
Gloria’s lustrous performance earned her critical acclaim and the recognition of her thespian peers.
Using death as subject, as in movies, books, or conversation; focused on the morbid and grisly. Horrifying.
Macabre movies are very popular with almost all teen viewers, male and female.
Exaggerated sense or display of masculinity. An emphasis on qualities typically considered male, such as strength, courage, aggressiveness, and lack of emotion.
Driving a motorcycle is for some a demonstration of machismo.
The study of economics that focuses on the big picture, especially the systems that make up a national or international economy. Also, a study of the ways different parts of the overall system are connected.
Those studying macroeconomics learn about supply and demand and other factors that impact the nation’s economy.
An expert in an art, especially music; a conductor, composer, or music teacher of high regard.
The violin students eagerly awaited the maestro, who was teaching them a complex arrangement that he would then conduct at their spring performance.
Very generous, kind, or forgiving. Has nothing to do with volcanoes or magma.
In a magnanimous gesture, the wealthy alumnus, who had once been suspended for bad grades, donated $10,000,000 to his alma mater.
Fast powerful computer with a large storage capacity that has a number of terminals for individual users connected to it.
As personal computers became faster and cheaper, the university had less need (and less room) for its mainframes.
A disease or illness of the body or the mind. An unhealthy, problematic condition that causes discomfort and requires a remedy.
New doctors sometimes fear that an undiagnosed malady will cause a patient’s death.
General feeling of illness or sickness. Vague sense of worry, discontent, or dissatisfaction and the bad feelings that come with it. Not to be confused with Malaysian, a person from Malaysia.
Doctors could not diagnose any particular disorder, yet Page still suffered from a malaise she could not overcome.
Misuse of a word through confusion with another word that sounds similar, especially with a humorous or ridiculous effect. “The physical year ends in June” is a malapropism for “The fiscal year ends in June.”Those who confuse and misuse words make many a malapropism.
Demonstrating or having a desire to harm others. Malicious and viciously ill-willed.
The two boxers stood toe to toe, each with a malevolent glare focused on the other.
To say or write bad, unpleasant, and disparaging things that are potentially damaging and may not be true.
Stuart’s editorial clearly sought to malign the reputation of fraternities, for he thought they should be eliminated.
Relating to or affective by mania; extremely or excessively happy, busy, active, agitated, of high excitement or nervous energy.
Chaperones are suspicious of manic behavior in teens at dances, for sometimes it means they have been drinking.
A public, written declaration of principles, policies, and objectives. Often issued by a political movement, candidate, or leader.
The Communist Manifesto, by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, inspired a political and economic movement that lasted decades yet ultimately proved finite.
Very small in scale or importance, as written in a margin. Not of central importance or relevance. Close to the lowest acceptable value or limit. In business terms, barely able to cover the costs of production when sold or when producing goods for sale; not truly profitable.
Trudy studied harder, but there was only marginal improvement in her grades, so she agreed to get a tutor.
Someone who chooses to die rather than deny religious, political, or other strong beliefs. Someone who suffers or sacrifices to advance a cause or principle. Someone who experiences great and constant pain. Someone who complains a great deal to solicit sympathy.
Seeking to become martyrs, kamikaze pilots of World War II flew their explosive-laden planes into enemy targets.
Martyr — Derived from the Greek word for “witness,” early Christians used this word to honor those who preferred to accept the penalty of death rather than renounce their faith.
To grind, pulverize, or chew using the teeth and jaws. To grind or crush something until it turns to pulp.
Grandpa, always an extravagant speaker, referred to his dentures as his “ masticating companions.”
To enroll as a member of a specific group or body, especially a college or university. Don’t confuse with masticate, which means to chew.
After all of the admissions challenges and decisions, it was a relief for Kim to finally matriculate to the University of Rochester.
A situation, circumstance, or substance that allows for origin, development, or growth of something. A substance within which something is embedded or enclosed. It’s more than just a movie title!
Necessity often seems to be the matrix of innovative thinking.
An admission of one’s own guilt. Formal apology or acknowledgement of responsibility. Latin for “on my head.”
Bradley offered a mea culpa after he lost the tickets to the concert.
Pleasant and soothing to listen to; sweet or rich in tone. Filled with a smooth, sweet substance.
The voices of passionate preachers are mellifluous, making the congregation feel as if they were singing their sermons.
Deliberate untruthfulness; a lie or falsehood. A very fancy, yet powerful way to say “a lie.”Even after he was caught red-handed, Brian still thought his mendacities would be believed.
Someone, often older or more experienced, who is trusted to advise, counsel, and teach another person who is younger or less experienced.
Each freshman was assigned a mentor from the senior class who was meant to provide help in adjusting to campus life more quickly and easily.
Lively, witty, fast-talking, hard to catch, and likely to do the unexpected. Caused by or containing mercury. Originally, relating to the god Mercury or born under that planet.
His mercurial ways made Matthew hard to understand and even harder to get to know.
A complete or significant change of the body, appearance, character, or condition. A transformation caused by supposed magic or supernatural powers. Franz Kafka’s famous story, The Metamorphosis,describes a man who changes into a cockroach.
The caterpillar’s metamorphosis into a butterfly is one of nature’s most amazing transformations.
Mentor — Mentor, in Greek mythology, was the friend of Odysseus who took charge of his household when the hero of Homer’s Odysseywent off to war. When problems arose, Pallas Athena descended from heaven to inhabit Mentor’s body and, through him, to give good advice to Odysseus’s son Telemachus. Mentor has since meant an adviser, teacher, or coach.
A model that represents a larger system; literally, a miniature world.
The characters and settings of the novelThe Great Gatsby show us the social issues and concerns of the 1920s in microcosm.
To manage a business or organization by paying extreme (and usually exces-sive) attention to small details. To retain personal responsibility for overseeing all details of an organization or project.
Some who micromanage contribute a great deal, yet others do more harm than good.
Moving as part of a bird, fish, or animal population from one region to another every year. Relating to movement of people or animals from one place to another. Tending to wander from one region to another without settling down for any length of time.
Migratory birds are good indicators of seasonal changes.
A stone or other marker on a road that indicates the number of miles to a given place. A significant or important event in someone’s life or in the history of a country, a family, or an organization.
The bar mitzvah celebrated by Jewish young men when they are thirteen is a milestone for the entire family.
The surroundings or environment that someone lives in and is influenced by.
Describing the circumstances or environment around a person or thing. A fancy way of saying “what’s around you.”
The principal thought a positive and friendly milieu would benefit the new students, so she approved some renovations to the cafeteria.
To imitate someone; to copy someone’s voice, gestures, or appearance. To resemble someone or something to be a deliberate copy.
Many popular comedians tell stories of how they used to mimic teachers, friends, and family when they were young.
To get stuck in mud, either yourself or something else. To make something muddy or dirty. To involve or entangle someone or something in difficulty.
Often a part of the phrase “muck and mire.”
Many college students become mired in credit card debt soon after commencement.
Someone who hates mankind in general, or dislikes and distrusts other people, avoiding them. A person with contempt for the human race.
Scrooge is perhaps literature’s most famous misanthrope, so much so that his name is now synonymous with that word.
To understand or interpret incorrectly; misinterpret. To make an error of analysis.
Many of the candidate’s statements were misconstrued, and she lost the election by a landslide.
A disorderly collection or confused mixture of things; a jumble. Not to be confused with mismatch,which means a pairing or combination of people or things that are incompatible or ill-suited.
When young children dress themselves, parents are not surprised to find they choose a mishmash of colors and styles.
Hatred of women. A bitter contempt for all women.
Trying to drown his sorrows after breaking up with his girlfriend, Jim’s inebriated ranting sounded much like misogyny.
To make an offense or crime less serious or more excusable. To lessen harshness, severity, violence, impact, or degree.
By turning state’s evidence and testifying against the suspected embezzlers, Mark hoped to mitigate his own guilt and contributions to the shady business deal.
The process by which a cell divides into two cells, with each having the same number of chromosomes as the original cell.
Mitosis is fundamental to the subject of biology, and students must understand it if they plan to learn about genetics.
Any device, like a rhyme or phrase, meant to make memorizing easier. It could be as simple as tying a string on one’s finger, or using an acronym, anagram, or sentence.
ROY G. BIV is a mnemonic used to remember all of the colors in the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
A small amount, especially of something abstract such as a quality or characteristic.
The police had hoped to hear at least a modicum of truth as they questioned the suspects about the robbery.
Either of the two parts, not necessarily equal, into which something is divided. A part, portion, or share. Either of two kinship groups divided by and defined by descent, that together make up a tribe or society.
The hungry fishermen divided their small catch, and each ate his moiety with great appreciation.
To calm or soothe someone who is upset; to appease someone’s anger. To lessen the impact of.
The father’s attempts to mollify his two arguing daughters were unsuccessful, so the screaming and crying went on for hours.
A scholarly academic-focused article, paper, or essay on a single topic. It is easy to imagine most monographs being read in a monotone.
Professor Smith’s monograph on religious philosophy was his first serious academic publication since his doctoral thesis.
Nearly dead. Having lost all sense of purpose or vitality. Becoming obsolete or about to die. Literally, “bound toward death.”
It was sad to visit Grandpa after his stroke, for this once energetic man lay moribund in bed, hardly speaking or moving.
Having a withdrawn or gloomy personality; melancholy or sullen.
As the shells landed closer, the enemy soldiers grew more morose as their chances of survival lessened.
Certain to die eventually. Being the cause of death, as in a mortal wound or injury. Extreme, as in a mortal enemy, or intensely felt, as in mortal terror.
Teenagers who often cross the street without looking seem unaware that they are mortal.
Agreement that lets someone borrow money against a valuable piece of property, such as a house, giving the lender the right to seize the property if the loan is not paid. A written contract between borrower and lender, or the total amount of money lent. Also the amount paid by the borrower, usually every month, until the sum is repaid.
If they could get a mortgage, the newlyweds would be able to buy their dream house.
To control or put an end to bodily desires by means of abstinence from pleasure and self-inflicted pain. Deep shame and humiliation caused by a blow to one’s pride.
A deep sense of mortification overcame the congregation when they learned how little had been pledged for the new rectory.
Composed of people or things that are very different and don’t seem to belong together. Made of different colors.
As a caring Little League coach, Paul was highly motivated to turn his motley group of kids into a confident team.
With many different talents, qualities, or features; possessing many facets, dimensions, or cut surfaces.
Spencer Tracy was a multifaceted actor, equally proficient at drama or comedy.
Commonplace, boring; ordinary or everyday. Relating to or pertaining to concerns of the workaday world.
After visiting Stephanie at college, her parents were surprised at how mundane the life of this high school partier had become.
A common condition that causes an inability to see things clearly from far away; nearsightedness. To lack foresight or long-term planning.
After the strategic planning meeting, it became evident that the sales team suffered from myopia and could not see their manager’s vision for success.
Too great a number to be counted; innumerable. Made of many different elements.
Elaine’s myriad talents were all used in her new job directing the all-school musical.
Myriad — Before the idea of a million was introduced in about the twelfth century, the largest number word was myriad,which derives from a Greek word meaning countless, infinite, and was also the Greek word for 10,000. Today, myriadis used chiefly to mean countless or innumerable.
You’re now halfway through with the list. What do you think? A good way to study up on your new words is to pick one that starts with each letter, A through M, and make a vocabulary list for next week. Then use the words from your list in speech or writing. You can’t lose!