GRE Wordlist
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Monday, July 8, 2013
GRE word : ADMONISH (Verb)
ADMONISH (Verb)
Definition : To criticize (someone) usually gently so as to correct a faultBarrons GRE word : ABASE (With picture)
ABASE (verb)
tr.v. a·based, a·bas·ing, a·bas·esMeaning
- To lower in rank, prestige, or esteem, to humiliate.
- To humble or belittle (oneself, etc.)
- Behave in a way so as to belittle or degrade (someone).
Synonyms
- humiliate - lower - humble - degrade - demean - mortify
Antonyms
- dignify, honor, respect.
Usage
- He felt abased when his clothes were removed.
- He humiliated his colleague by criticising him in front of the boss.
- Hurt the feelings of; "She hurt me when she did not include me among her guests"; "This remark really bruised my ego"
GRE Word List Essential (900+ words)

- aberrantmarkedly different from an accepted normHitler’s derived personality profile also suggested that he probably had schizophrenic tendencies, including excessive grandiosity and aberrant thinking.
—Scientific American (Dec 19, 2011) abeyance
temporary cessation or suspension“Usually, at the conclusion of the proceedings, final disposition was held in abeyance, and the alien would remain on bond,” Ms. Galvin wrote.
—New York Times (Feb 18, 2012)abscond
run away; usually includes taking something or somebody alongPolice have said they are seeking help in locating a prisoner who absconded from a healthcare facility in Belfast.
—BBC (May 1, 2011)abstemious
marked by temperance in indulgenceGarnishes were simple, abstemious yet effective players on the plate: squash risotto, puréed fennel, bacon-onion jam.
—New York Times (Nov 20, 2010)abstruse
difficult to penetrate; incomprehensible to one of ordinary understanding or knowledgeOther artists produce maddeningly abstruse drawings that relate to their better-known performances.
—New York Times (Mar 24, 2011)absurd
inconsistent with reason or logic or common senseabyss
a bottomless gulf or pit; any unfathomable (or apparently unfathomable) cavity or chasm or void extending below (often used figuratively)acquiesce
to agree or express agreementAmerican officials initially tried to resist President Karzai’s moves but eventually acquiesced.
—New York Times (Mar 9, 2012)adamant
very hard native crystalline carbon valued as a gemadept
having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitudeadmonish
take to taskadulate
flatter in an obsequious mannerThe main man at SOM was David Childs, now aged 70, prominent for decades in American architecture but never adulated like its more glamorous stars.
—The Guardian (Jul 30, 2011)adulation
servile flattery; exaggerated and hypocritical praiseadulterate
corrupt, debase, or make impure by adding a foreign or inferior substance; often by replacing valuable ingredients with inferior onesadumbrate
describe roughly or briefly or give the main points or summary ofHe vaguely adumbrated what it was out of which she came.
—Wells, H. G. (Herbert George)adverse
in an opposing direction- aestheteone who professes great sensitivity to the beauty of art and nature
affable
diffusing warmth and friendlinessaffliction
a cause of great suffering and distressaffluent
having an abundant supply of money or possessions of valueaggrandize
add details toBeyond facial and vocal signs of disapproval, there are sometimes bizarre, exaggerated movements, like abrupt stops or aggrandized sidesteps.
—New York Times (Nov 7, 2011)agitate
move or cause to move back and forthagog
highly excitedalacrity
liveliness and eagernessThus far, although perhaps somewhat lacking in alacrity of persecution, no serious charges could be laid against him.
—Lea, Henry Charlesallegation
(law) a formal accusation against somebody (often in a court of law)allegiance
the act of binding yourself (intellectually or emotionally) to a course of actionally
a friendly nationamalgamate
to bring or combine together or with something elseambiguous
having more than one possible meaningambivalent
uncertain or unable to decide about what course to follow- ambrosialworthy of the gods
ameliorate
to make betteramenable
disposed or willing to complyanachronism
something located at a time when it could not have existed or occurredanalgesic
capable of relieving painannex
attach toOpponents say Ma’s moves will make it easier for Beijing leaders to eventually annex Taiwan, which they view as province of China.
—Forbes (Jan 13, 2012)annotate
add explanatory notes to or supply with critical commentsannul
cancel officiallyanomalous
deviating from the general or common order or typeantediluvian
of or relating to the period before the biblical floodantipathy
a feeling of intense dislikeantiseptic
thoroughly clean and free of or destructive to disease-causing organisms- aphoristicterse and witty and like a maximHis best writing has always had an aphoristic quality, and that’s true here.
—New York Times (May 10, 2011) apocryphal
being of questionable authenticityapparition
a ghostly appearing figureappraise
consider in a comprehensive wayapprehension
fearful expectation or anticipationapprise
inform (somebody) of somethingapprobation
official approval“Perhaps,” he said, “painting him was one way of trying to elicit more love and approbation.”
—New York Times (Apr 13, 2012)aptitude
inherent abilityaqueous
similar to or containing or dissolved in waterThe fact that an aqueous solution of these ashes affects the coloured parts of many plants was also noticed in early times.
—Muir, M. M. Pattison (Matthew Moncrieff Pattison)arable
(of farmland) capable of being farmed productivelyarbitrate
act between parties with a view to reconciling differencesarduous
characterized by effort to the point of exhaustion; especially physical effortarticulate
express or state clearlyascetic
someone who practices self denial as a spiritual disciplineascribe
attribute or credit toasperity
harshness of manner"Standin' an' looking at the blessed thing won't clear away this raffle," said the Old Man withasperity.
—Westerman, Percy F. (Percy Francis)aspersion
a disparaging remarkaspiration
a cherished desireassess
evaluate or estimate the nature, quality, ability, extent, or significance ofassuage
provide physical relief, as from painastringent
tending to draw together or constrict soft organic tissueastute
marked by practical hardheaded intelligenceatone
turn away from sin or do penitenceRegulators can begin to atone for their past laxity by helping the working group now.
—New York Times (Mar 1, 2012)atrophy
a decrease in size of an organ caused by disease or disuseattentive
taking heed; giving close and thoughtful attentionattenuate
become weaker, in strength, value, or magnitudeaudacious
disposed to venture or take risksaugment
enlarge or increaseauspicious
auguring favorable circumstances and good luckFive years later, the corporate law world is again abuzz over the firm, Dewey & LeBoeuf, but for less auspicious reasons.
—New York Times (Mar 15, 2012)austere
of a stern or strict bearing or demeanor; forbidding in aspectavarice
reprehensible acquisitiveness; insatiable desire for wealth (personified as one of the deadly sins)aver
to declare or affirm solemnly and formally as trueaverse
(usually followed by `to') strongly opposedavert
turn away or asideavid
marked by active interest and enthusiasmbaleful
threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developmentsbalk
refuse to complybanal
repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuseNor is it his material, which sticks to deft takes on relatively banal subjects like chain stores or hipster attitudes.
—New York Times (Mar 21, 2012)- banefuldeadly or sinister
banter
light teasing reparteebarefaced
with no effort to concealbask
be exposedbelie
be in contradiction withbellicose
having or showing a ready disposition to fightbenevolent
showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generositybenign
kindness of disposition or mannerbilk
cheat somebody out of what is due, especially moneySo-called boiler-rooms, where corrupt brokers bilked investors by manipulating stocks, were giving way to insider-trading.
—BusinessWeek (Dec 22, 2011)bizarre
conspicuously or grossly unconventional or unusualblandishment
flattery intended to persuadebleak
unpleasantly cold and dampblithe
carefree and happy and lightheartedblunder
an embarrassing mistake- boarda stout length of sawn timber; made in a wide variety of sizes and used for many purposes
- bogwet spongy ground of decomposing vegetation; has poorer drainage than a swamp; soil is unfit for cultivation but can be cut and dried and used for fuel
bogus
fraudulent; having a misleading appearancebolster
support and strengthenbombast
pompous or pretentious talk or writingBut he lost his nerve as a coproducer, going for stadium bombast instead of the unadorned grit these stories of hard times demand.
—Chicago Tribune (Mar 2, 2012)- boora crude uncouth ill-bred person lacking culture or refinement
breach
an opening (especially a gap in a dike or fortification)brisk
quick and energeticbrittle
having little elasticity; hence easily cracked or fractured or snappedbrood
hang over, as of something threatening, dark, or menacingburgeon
grow and flourishburlesque
a theatrical entertainment of broad and earthy humor; consists of comic skits and short turns (and sometimes striptease)buttress
a support usually of stone or brick; supports the wall of a building- cadgeobtain or seek to obtain by cadging or wheedling
cajole
influence or urge by gentle urging, caressing, or flattering- calisthenicslight exercises designed to promote general fitness
cant
a slope in the turn of a road or track; the outside is higher than the inside in order to reduce the effects of centrifugal forcecaprice
a sudden desireAt length, when they were fully out of earshot, Manners himself stopped, thinking that he had humoured his companion's caprices far enough.
—James, G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford)- captora person who captures and holds people or animals
castigate
inflict severe punishment oncatalyst
(chemistry) a substance that initiates or accelerates a chemical reaction without itself being affectedcaustic
of a substance, especially a strong acid; capable of destroying or eating away by chemical actioncavern
a large cave or a large chamber in a cavecensor
a person who is authorized to read publications or correspondence or to watch theatrical performances and suppress in whole or in part anything considered obscene or politically unacceptablecensure
harsh criticism or disapprovalcessation
a stoppingcharter
a document incorporating an institution and specifying its rights; includes the articles of incorporation and the certificate of incorporationchary
characterized by great caution and warinessMany, perhaps chary of the misspelling bell, backed away slowly after their word.
—New York Times (Mar 21, 2012)chicanery
the use of tricks to deceive someone (usually to extract money from them)circumlocution
an indirect way of expressing somethingcircumspect
heedful of potential consequencesclaim
assert or affirm strongly; state to be true or existing- clota lump of material formed from the content of a liquid
clumsy
lacking grace in movement or posture- coagulantan agent that produces coagulationThey were all suitable coagulants when used in quantity calculated from the discovered acidity, but produced rubber darker than ordinary when air-dried.
—Morgan, Sidney coerce
to cause to do through pressure or necessity, by physical, moral or intellectual means :"She forced him to take a job in the city"cogent
powerfully persuasivecognizance
having knowledge ofcoherent
marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of partscollusion
secret agreementcommensurate
corresponding in size or degree or extent“He was terribly hyper, ambitious,” Mr. Evtushenkov said — and thus, he implied, forgot the rule about operating commensurate with political influence.
—New York Times (May 4, 2012)commentator
an expert who observes and comments on somethingcomplacent
contented to a fault with oneself or one's actionscomplaisant
showing a cheerful willingness to do favors for otherscomposure
steadiness of mind under stressconcede
give over; surrender or relinquish to the physical control of anotherconceit
the trait of being unduly vain and conceited; false prideconcession
the act of conceding or yieldingconciliatory
making or willing to make concessionsconcoct
make a concoction (of) by mixingconcur
happen simultaneouslycondescend
behave in a patronizing and condescending mannerconducive
tending to bring about; being partly responsible forconfidential
(of information) given in confidence or in secretconfine
place limits on (extent or access)conflagration
a very intense and uncontrolled fireThere are concerns that the conflict could cause a regional conflagration that sucks in neighboring countries.
—Time (Mar 27, 2012)conflate
mix together different elementsconfound
be confusing or perplexing to; cause to be unable to think clearlyconfrontation
discord resulting from a clash of ideas or opinionscongruent
corresponding in character or kindconifer
any gymnospermous tree or shrub bearing conesconjecture
to believe especially on uncertain or tentative groundsconjure
summon into action or bring into existence, often as if by magicconscript
enroll into service compulsorilyconsensus
agreement in the judgment or opinion reached by a group as a wholeconsign
give over to another for care or safekeepingconsole
give moral or emotional strength toconspicuous
obvious to the eye or mindconspire
act in unison or agreement and in secret towards a deceitful or illegal purposeconsternation
fear resulting from the awareness of dangercontend
compete for something; engage in a contest; measure oneself against otherscontentious
inclined or showing an inclination to dispute or disagree, even to engage in law suitscontingent
determined by conditions or circumstances that followcontrite
feeling or expressing pain or sorrow for sins or offensescontroversial
marked by or capable of arousing controversyconvoke
call togetherconvoluted
rolled longitudinally upon itselfcorporal
affecting or characteristic of the body as opposed to the mind or spiritcorroborate
give evidence forcovert
secret or hidden; not openly practiced or engaged in or shown or avowedcovet
wish, long, or crave for (something, especially the property of another person)cower
crouch or curl upcoy
modestly or warily rejecting approaches or overturescrave
have a craving, appetite, or great desire forcraven
lacking even the rudiments of courage; abjectly fearful- creasean angular or rounded shape made by folding
credulity
tendency to believe readily- crockerytableware (eating and serving dishes) collectively
culpable
deserving blame or censure as being wrong or evil or injurious- curbthe act of restraining power or action or limiting excess
dabble
bob forward and under so as to feed off the bottom of a body of water- dampenlessen in force or effect
dangle
hang freely- dazzlebrightness enough to blind partially and temporarily
dearth
an insufficient quantity or numberdebacle
a sudden and violent collapsedebilitate
make weakdecorous
characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste in manners and conductdecorum
propriety in manners and conductdecree
a legally binding command or decision entered on the court record (as if issued by a court or judge)decry
express strong disapproval ofdedication
complete and wholehearted fidelitydefer
yield to another's wish or opiniondeference
courteous regard for people's feelingsdefiance
a hostile challenge- defiantboldly resisting authority or an opposing force
deft
skillful in physical movements; especially of the handsdelineate
represented accurately or preciselydeluge
a heavy rain- demoteassign to a lower position; reduce in rank
demur
take exception todenounce
speak out against- denunciationa public act of denouncing
deposition
the act of putting something somewheredeprivation
the disadvantage that results from losing somethingdeprive
take awaydescry
catch sight ofdesiccate
lacking vitality or spirit; lifelessdesperate
a person who is frightened and in need of helpdespicable
morally reprehensibledetached
no longer connected or joineddeter
turn away from by persuasiondevoid
completely wanting or lackingdiatribe
thunderous verbal attackdichotomy
being twofold; a classification into two opposed parts or subclassesdiffident
showing modest reservedigress
wander from a direct or straight coursedilettante
an amateur who engages in an activity without serious intentions and who pretends to have knowledgediligent
quietly and steadily persevering especially in detail or exactnessdin
a loud harsh or strident noisedirge
a song or hymn of mourning composed or performed as a memorial to a dead persondisabuse
free somebody (from an erroneous belief)- disassembletake apart into its constituent pieces
disburse
expend, as from a funddiscomfit
cause to lose one's composurediscourse
an extended communication (often interactive) dealing with some particular topicdiscreet
marked by prudence or modesty and wise self-restraintdiscrete
constituting a separate entity or partdisdain
lack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislikedisguise
any attire that modifies the appearance in order to conceal the wearer's identitydisinterested
unaffected by self-interestdislodge
remove or force from a position of dwelling previously occupieddisparate
fundamentally different or distinct in quality or kinddisparity
inequality or difference in some respectdispassionate
unaffected by strong emotion or prejudicedispel
to cause to separate and go in different directions- disproveprove to be false
- disrobeget undressed
dissemble
behave unnaturally or affectedlydissent
a difference of opiniondistend
cause to expand as it by internal pressuredistract
draw someone's attention away from somethingdistraught
deeply agitated especially from emotiondivest
take away possessions from someonedivulge
make known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secretdocile
easily handled or manageddogmatic
of or pertaining to or characteristic of a doctrine or code of beliefs accepted as authoritativedoleful
filled with or evoking sadnessdormant
inactive but capable of becoming activedrab
a dull greyish to yellowish or light olive brown- drawla slow speech pattern with prolonged vowels
droll
comical in an odd or whimsical mannerdrone
an unchanging intonationdrought
a shortage of rainfalldubious
fraught with uncertainty or doubtdumbfound
be a mystery or bewildering todupe
fool or hoax- dwarfa plant or animal that is atypically small
dwindle
become smaller or lose substanceebullient
joyously unrestrainedeclectic
selecting what seems best of various styles or ideasefface
remove by or as if by rubbing or erasingefficacious
marked by qualities giving the power to produce an intended effecteffrontery
audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right toegalitarian
favoring social equalityegregious
conspicuously and outrageously bad or reprehensibleelicit
call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)eloquence
powerful and effective languageelucidate
make clear and (more) comprehensibleelusive
skillful at eluding captureembellish
make more attractive by adding ornament, colour, etc.embrace
squeeze (someone) tightly in your arms, usually with fondnessemissary
someone sent on a mission to represent the interests of someone elseemollient
toiletry consisting of any of various substances in the form of a thick liquid that have a soothing and moisturizing effect when applied to the skinUnlike his emollient predecessor, Sir Rod Eddington, Walsh has an uncompromising style and has proved willing to confront unions head-on, with decidedly mixed results.
—The Guardian (Nov 20, 2010)- enchantcast a spell over someone or something; put a hex on someone or something
encomium
a formal expression of praiseencroach
advance beyond the usual limitencumber
hold backendeavor
attempt by employing effortendorse
be behind; approve ofenervate
weaken mentally or morallyengender
make childrenengrossed
giving or marked by complete attention toenigma
something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained- enlistjoin the military
- ensigna person who holds a commissioned rank in the United States Navy or the United States Coast Guard; below lieutenant junior grade
- enthralhold spellbound
entrenched
dug inephemeral
anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day in its winged formepistemology
the philosophical theory of knowledgeepistle
a specially long, formal letterepithet
descriptive word or phraseepitome
a standard or typical exampleequivocate
be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold informationequivocation
intentionally vague or ambiguouseradicate
destroy completely, as if down to the rootserratic
liable to sudden unpredictable changeerudite
having or showing profound knowledgeeschew
avoid and stay away from deliberately; stay clear ofesoteric
confined to and understandable by only an enlightened inner circleespouse
choose and follow; as of theories, ideas, policies, strategies or plans- espycatch sight of
ethos
(anthropology) the distinctive spirit of a culture or an eraeuphemism
an inoffensive or indirect expression that is substituted for one that is considered offensive or too harsheuphoria
a feeling of great (usually exaggerated) elationevanescent
tending to vanish like vaporevict
expel or eject without recourse to legal processevoke
call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)exacerbate
make worseexculpate
pronounce not guilty of criminal chargesexemplary
worthy of imitationexemplify
be characteristic ofexhort
spur on or encourage especially by cheers and shoutsexigent
demanding attentionexonerate
pronounce not guilty of criminal chargesexorbitant
greatly exceeding bounds of reason or moderationexpend
use up, consume fullyexpiate
make amends forexplicit
precisely and clearly expressed or readily observable; leaving nothing to implicationexploit
use or manipulate to one's advantageextant
still in existence; not extinct or destroyed or lost- extemporewith little or no preparation or forethought
extensive
large in spatial extent or range or scope or quantityextent
the point or degree to which something extendsextol
praise, glorify, or honorextravagant
recklessly wastefulexuberant
joyously unrestrainedfacetious
cleverly amusing in tone- faddishintensely fashionable for a short timeIn the West investing in fine wine instead of equities, bonds or commodities has become something of a faddish way to diversify one’s portfolio.
—Economist (Jan 20, 2011) fallacious
containing or based on a fallacyfallacy
a misconception resulting from incorrect reasoningfalter
move hesitatingly, as if about to give way- fanaticalmarked by excessive enthusiasm for and intense devotion to a cause or idea
fathom
a linear unit of measurement (equal to 6 feet) for water depth- fawna young deer
feckless
generally incompetent and ineffectualfeign
make believe with the intent to deceive- felicitateexpress congratulations
felon
someone who has committed a crime or has been legally convicted of a crimefervent
characterized by intense emotionfervid
characterized by intense emotionfervor
feelings of great warmth and intensityfeud
a bitter quarrel between two partiesfickle
liable to sudden unpredictable change- fidgetmove restlessly
finicky
exacting especially about detailsflamboyant
marked by ostentation but often tasteless- flatterpraise somewhat dishonestly
flaunt
display proudly; act ostentatiously or pretentiouslyfledgling
young bird that has just fledged or become capable of flyingflimsy
a thin strong lightweight translucent paper used especially for making carbon copiesflinch
draw back, as with fear or painflippant
showing inappropriate levityflirt
talk or behave amorously, without serious intentions- flopfall loosely
florid
elaborately or excessively ornamentedflounder
walk with great difficultyflout
treat with contemptuous disregardfluffy
like down or as soft as downfluke
a stroke of luckflustered
thrown into a state of agitated confusion; (`rattled' is an informal term)foible
a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individualfoment
try to stir up public opinionfoment
try to stir up public opinionfoolhardy
marked by defiant disregard for danger or consequencesfoppish
affecting extreme elegance in dress and manner- foreclosurethe legal proceedings initiated by a creditor to repossess the collateral for loan that is in default
forestall
keep from happening or arising; make impossibleforge
create by hammering- forgerycriminal falsification by making or altering an instrument with intent to defraud
formidable
extremely impressive in strength or excellenceforthright
directly and without evasion; not roundaboutfortuitous
occurring by happy chancefoster
providing or receiving nurture or parental care though not related by blood or legal tiesfracas
noisy quarrelfraud
intentional deception resulting in injury to another personfrenzy
state of violent mental agitationfret
be agitated or irritatedfrivolous
not serious in content or attitude or behaviorfrown
a facial expression of dislike or displeasurefulminate
cause to explode violently and with loud noisefurtive
secret and sly or sordidgaffe
a socially awkward or tactless actgainsay
take exception togarner
store graingarrulous
full of trivial conversationgauche
lacking social polishIt was not that long ago he appeared gauche and unco-ordinated, every bit a former second-row camping out on the wing.
—The Guardian (Feb 19, 2011)gaudy
tastelessly showygavel
a small mallet used by a presiding officer or a judgeghastly
shockingly repellent; inspiring horrorgird
bind with something round or circulargist
the central meaning or theme of a speech or literary workglib
artfully persuasive in speechgloat
dwell on with satisfactiongoad
stab or urge on as if with a pointed stickgorge
a deep ravine (usually with a river running through it)gossamer
a gauze fabric with an extremely fine texturegouge
an impression in a surface (as made by a blow)- gravelrock fragments and pebbles
gravity
(physics) the force of attraction between all masses in the universe; especially the attraction of the earth's mass for bodies near its surface- grazingthe act of grazing
gregarious
instinctively or temperamentally seeking and enjoying the company of othersgrill
a framework of metal bars used as a partition or a grategrovel
show submission or feargrudging
petty or reluctant in giving or spending- grumblemake complaining remarks or noises under one's breath
- guardedprudent
guile
shrewdness as demonstrated by being skilled in deceptionguileless
free of deceitgullible
naive and easily deceived or trickedhackneyed
repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse- hallucinateperceive what is not there; have illusions
hamper
prevent the progress or free movement ofhapless
deserving or inciting pityharangue
a loud bombastic declamation expressed with strong emotionharbor
a sheltered port where ships can take on or discharge cargo- herbaceouscharacteristic of a nonwoody herb or plant part
heretic
a person who holds religious beliefs in conflict with the dogma of the Roman Catholic Church- hereticalcharacterized by departure from accepted beliefs or standards
heterodox
characterized by departure from accepted beliefs or standardshoax
something intended to deceive; deliberate trickery intended to gain an advantageholster
a sheath (usually leather) for carrying a handgun- homeopathya method of treating disease with small amounts of remedies that, in large amounts in healthy people, produce symptoms similar to those being treated
hyperbole
extravagant exaggerationhypocritical
professing feelings or virtues one does not haveiconoclast
someone who attacks cherished ideas or traditional institutionsidiosyncrasy
a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individual- idolatrousrelating to or practicing idolatry
illicit
contrary to accepted morality (especially sexual morality) or conventionimbibe
take in liquidsimbue
spread or diffuse throughimmutable
not subject or susceptible to change or variation in form or quality or natureimpair
make worse or less effectiveimpassive
having or revealing little emotion or sensibility; not easily aroused or excitedimpecunious
not having enough money to pay for necessitiesimpede
be a hindrance or obstacle toimpediment
something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progressimperative
requiring attention or actionimperious
having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthyimpervious
not admitting of passage or capable of being affectedimpetuous
characterized by undue haste and lack of thought or deliberationimplacable
incapable of being placatedimposture
pretending to be another personimpregnable
immune to attack; incapable of being tampered withimpromptu
with little or no preparation or forethought- improvidencea lack of prudence and care by someone in the management of resources
improvise
manage in a makeshift way; do with whatever is at handimpudent
improperly forward or boldimpugn
attack as false or wrongimpunity
exemption from punishment or lossinadvertent
happening by chance or unexpectedly or unintentionallyinauspicious
not auspicious; boding illinchoate
only partly in existence; imperfectly formedincidence
the relative frequency of occurrence of somethingincipient
only partly in existence; imperfectly formed- incongruouslacking in harmony or compatibility or appropriateness
incorrigible
impervious to correction by punishmentincursion
the act of entering some territory or domain (often in large numbers)indelible
cannot be removed or erasedindict
accuse formally of a crimeindigenous
originating where it is foundindignant
angered at something unjust or wronginduce
cause to do; cause to act in a specified mannerindulge
yield (to); give satisfaction toineffable
defying expression or descriptioninept
generally incompetent and ineffectual- inextricablenot permitting extrication; incapable of being disentangled or untied
infiltrate
pass through an enemy line; in a military conflict- inflammableeasily ignited
- infusefill, as with a certain quality
ingenious
showing inventiveness and skillingenuous
lacking in sophistication or worldlinessingrained
(used especially of ideas or principles) deeply rooted; firmly fixed or heldinimical
not friendlyiniquitous
characterized by iniquity; wicked because it is believed to be a sininnocuous
not injurious to physical or mental healthinopportune
not opportuneinquisitive
inquiring or appearing to inquire- insatiateimpossible to satisfy
insensible
barely able to be perceived- insigniaa badge worn to show official position
insinuate
give to understandinsipid
lacking interest or significance or impactinsular
relating to or characteristic of or situated on an islandintact
undamaged in any wayinterregnum
the time between two reigns, governments, etc.intransigent
impervious to pleas, persuasion, requests, reasonintrepid
invulnerable to fear or intimidationintricate
having many complexly arranged elements; elaborateintrigue
a crafty and involved plot to achieve your (usually sinister) endsinundate
fill or cover completely, usually with waterinured
made tough by habitual exposureinvective
abusive or venomous language used to express blame or censure or bitter deep-seated ill willinvert
turn inside out or upside downinvigorate
give life or energy toinvoke
request earnestly (something from somebody); ask for aid or protectionirascible
quickly aroused to angerirate
feeling or showing extreme anger- jambupright consisting of a vertical side member of a door or window frame
jeer
laugh at with contempt and derisionjeopardy
a source of danger; a possibility of incurring loss or misfortunejest
activity characterized by good humorjocular
characterized by jokes and good humorjovial
full of or showing high-spirited merrimentjudicious
marked by the exercise of good judgment or common sense in practical matterslackluster
lacking brilliance or vitalitylaconic
brief and to the point; effectively cut short- lassoa long noosed rope used to catch animals
latitude
an imaginary line around the Earth parallel to the equatorlaudable
worthy of high praiselavish
very generous- leashrestraint consisting of a rope (or light chain) used to restrain an animal
leaven
a substance used to produce fermentation in dough or a liquidlethargic
deficient in alertness or activitylethargy
inactivity; showing an unusual lack of energylevee
a pier that provides a landing place on a riverleviathan
the largest or most massive thing of its kindlevy
impose and collectlibertine
unrestrained by convention or morality- ligneousconsisting of or containing lignin or xylemThe interior is filled with a powder that under the microscope appears to be made up of ligneousfilaments mixed with a few spores.
—Lloyd, C. G. - limericka humorous verse form of 5 anapestic lines with a rhyme scheme aabba“It was no problem,” said Ms. Campbell, who lives in Lake Oswego, Ore., and uses her iPad daily to write limericks and reread classic novels.
—New York Times (Sep 1, 2010) limp
walk impeded by some physical limitation or injury- linena fabric woven with fibers from the flax plant
literal
limited to the explicit meaning of a word or textlizard
relatively long-bodied reptile with usually two pairs of legs and a tapering tail- loaferperson who does no work
loll
be lazy or idleloom
a textile machine for weaving yarn into a textilelope
run easilyloquacious
full of trivial conversationlucid
(of language) transparently clear; easily understandablelucrative
producing a sizeable profitludicrous
incongruous;inviting ridiculelugubrious
excessively mournfullull
make calm or stilllumber
the wood of trees cut and prepared for use as building materialluminous
softly bright or radiantlustrous
reflecting lightmace
spice made from the dried fleshy covering of the nutmeg seedmacerate
soften, usually by steeping in liquid, and cause to disintegrate as a resultmagnanimity
liberality in bestowing gifts; extremely liberal and generous of spiritmalapropism
the unintentional misuse of a word by confusion with one that sounds similarmalevolent
wishing or appearing to wish evil to others; arising from intense ill will or hatredmalign
speak unfavorably aboutmalingerer
someone shirking their duty by feigning illness or incapacityStanford failed tests designed to expose malingerers, a psychologist testified yesterday in Houston.
—BusinessWeek (Dec 21, 2011)manifest
clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgmentmartial
suggesting war or military lifemartinet
someone who demands exact conformity to rules and formsmaverick
someone who exhibits great independence in thought and actionmeager
deficient in amount or quality or extentmeddle
intrude in other people's affairs or business; interfere unwantedlymediocre
moderate to inferior in quality- mendrestore by replacing a part or putting together what is torn or broken
mendacious
given to lyingmercenary
a person hired to fight for another country than their ownmercurial
liable to sudden unpredictable change- metaphysicsthe philosophical study of being and knowing
meticulous
marked by precise accordance with detailsmettle
the courage to carry on- mettlesomehaving a proud and unbroken spirit
minuscule
very smallmirth
great merrimentmisanthrope
someone who dislikes people in generalmisnomer
an incorrect or unsuitable namemisogynist
a misanthrope who dislikes women in particular- mistrustregard as untrustworthy; regard with suspicion; have no faith or confidence in
mitigate
lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent ofmoat
ditch dug as a fortification and usually filled with watermollify
cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will ofmollycoddle
treat with excessive indulgenceThe behaviorist John B. Watson argued that mollycoddled toddlers grew into weak and whiny adults.
—Slate (Dec 7, 2010)molt
cast off hair, skin, horn, or feathersThe challenging crabs had recently molted, so perhaps it wanted a good position to regain its bacterial covering.
—Scientific American (Dec 5, 2011)morose
showing a brooding ill humormosaic
art consisting of a design made of small pieces of colored stone or glassmundane
found in the ordinary course of eventsnadir
an extreme state of adversity; the lowest point of anything- narcotica drug that produces numbness or stupor; often taken for pleasure or to reduce pain; extensive use can lead to addiction
nausea
the state that precedes vomitingnefarious
extremely wickedneglect
leave undone or leave out- neuralgiaacute spasmodic pain along the course of one or more nerves
nocturnal
belonging to or active during the nightnoisome
causing or able to cause nauseanonchalant
marked by blithe unconcernnondescript
lacking distinct or individual characteristics; dull and uninteresting- nonplusedfilled with bewildermentMr. Reginald Kent looked rather nonplused and Mr. Tucker handed me his gun to hold while he rolled in the leaves for very joy.
—Speed, Nell - notea brief written record
notion
a general inclusive conceptoaf
an awkward stupid personobdurate
stubbornly persistent in wrongdoingobeisance
bending the head or body or knee as a sign of reverence or submission or shame or greetingobelisk
a stone pillar having a rectangular cross section tapering towards a pyramidal topobese
excessively fatobfuscate
make obscure or unclearobituary
a notice of someone's death; usually includes a short biography- objurgatecensure severely
- objurgationrebuking a person harshlyThen more blows, a general rising up of that part of the congregation, and a pouring out of profaneobjurgations that was surprising.
—McBride, R. E. - oblationthe act of contributing to the funds of a church or charity
obligatory
required by obligation or compulsion or conventionoblique
slanting or inclined in direction or course or position--neither parallel nor perpendicular nor right-angled- obliquitythe quality of being deceptive
obliterate
remove completely from recognition or memoryoblivion
the state of being disregarded or forgottenobloquy
a false accusation of an offense or a malicious misrepresentation of someone's words or actionsobnoxious
causing disapproval or protestobscure
not clearly understood or expressedobsequious
attempting to win favor from influential people by flatteryobsession
an unhealthy and compulsive preoccupation with something or someoneobsidian
acid or granitic glass formed by the rapid cooling of lava without crystallization; usually dark, but transparent in thin piecesobsolete
no longer in useobstetrician
a physician specializing in obstetricsobstreperous
noisily and stubbornly defiantobtrude
push to thrust outwardobtrusive
sticking out; protrudingobtuse
of an angle; between 90 and 180 degreesobviate
do away withobvious
easily perceived by the senses or grasped by the mindoccult
supernatural forces and events and beings collectivelyoculist
a person skilled in testing for defects of vision in order to prescribe corrective glassesodious
unequivocally detestableodium
hate coupled with disgustodoriferous
emitting an odorodorous
having odor or a characteristic odor- offalviscera and trimmings of a butchered animal often considered inedible by humans
- offertorythe offerings of the congregation at a religious serviceIt is very difficult to say whether they should be read before or after the offertory and prayer for the Church Militant.
—Unknown officious
intrusive in a meddling or offensive mannerogle
look at with amorous intentionsolfactory
of or relating to olfactionoligarchy
a political system governed by a few peopleominous
threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developmentsomnipotent
having unlimited poweromnipresent
being present everywhere at onceomniscient
infinitely wiseomnivorous
feeding on both plants and animalsonerous
not easily borne; wearingonomatopoeia
using words that imitate the sound they denoteonslaught
(military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)onus
an onerous or difficult concernopalescent
having a play of lustrous rainbow colorsopaque
not transmitting or reflecting light or radiant energy; impenetrable to sightopiate
a narcotic drug that contains opium or an opium derivativeopportune
suitable or at a time that is suitable or advantageous especially for a particular purposeopportunist
a person who places expediency above principle- opprobriousexpressing offensive reproach
opprobrium
a state of extreme dishonoroptician
a worker who makes glasses for remedying defects of visionoptimum
most desirable possible under a restriction expressed or impliedoptometrist
a person skilled in testing for defects of vision in order to prescribe corrective glassesopulence
wealth as evidenced by sumptuous livingopus
a musical work that has been createdoratorio
a musical composition for voices and orchestra based on a religious textordinance
an authoritative ruleorientation
the act of orientingorifice
an aperture or hole that opens into a bodily cavityorison
reverent petition to a deityornate
marked by elaborate rhetoric and elaborated with decorative detailsornithologist
a zoologist who studies birds- ornithologythe branch of zoology that studies birds
orotund
ostentatiously lofty in styleIt may, of course, vary in pitch, but tones of low pitch that are intended to be impressive are most suitably rendered in orotund quality.
—Ontario. Ministry of Educationorthography
a method of representing the sounds of a language by written or printed symbolsoscillate
move or swing from side to side regularly- ossifiedset in a rigidly conventional pattern of behavior, habits, or beliefsBut voters like George Pappas, 37, a physical therapist, say they're equally as angry at the ossifiedpolitics at home.
—Time (May 1, 2012) ostensible
appearing as such but not necessarily soostentatious
intended to attract notice and impress others- ostracismthe act of excluding someone from society by general consent
ostracize
expel from a community or group- outgrowththe gradual beginning or coming forth
outmoded
out of fashion- outsetthe time at which something is supposed to begin
- overhaulmake repairs, renovations, revisions or adjustments to
overt
open and observable; not secret or hiddenoverture
orchestral music played at the beginning of an opera or oratoriooverweening
presumptuously arrogantoverwrought
deeply agitated especially from emotionpan
shallow container made of metalpanegyric
formally expressing praiseparagon
an ideal instance; a perfect embodiment of a conceptparasite
an animal or plant that lives in or on a host (another animal or plant); it obtains nourishment from the host without benefiting or killing the host- parquetrya patterned wood inlay used to cover a floorHe seemed like a clumsy circus hero as he scraped his feet over the parquetry and attempted to kiss her hand.
—Huneker, James pathology
the branch of medical science that studies the causes and nature and effects of diseasespaucity
an insufficient quantity or number- pebblea small smooth rounded rock
peccadillo
a petty misdeedMr. Hurd’s supposed peccadilloes were a smoke screen for the real reason they got rid of an executive they didn’t trust and employees didn’t like.
—New York Times (Aug 13, 2010)pedant
a person who pays more attention to formal rules and book learning than they merit- pedantryan ostentatious and inappropriate display of learning
pedestrian
a person who travels by footpeer
look searchinglypenchant
a strong likingpenury
a state of extreme poverty or destitutionperch
an elevated place serving as a seatperemptory
putting an end to all debate or actionperennial
lasting three seasons or moreperfidious
tending to betray; especially having a treacherous character as attributed to the Carthaginians by the Romansperfidy
an act of deliberate betrayalperfunctory
hasty and without attention to detail; not thoroughpernicious
exceedingly harmfulperpetuate
cause to continue or prevailperplex
be a mystery or bewildering topertinent
being of striking appropriateness and pertinencepervade
spread or diffuse throughpestilence
any epidemic disease with a high death ratepetition
a formal message requesting something that is submitted to an authoritypetulance
an irritable petulant feelingpetulant
easily irritated or annoyedphilanthropist
someone who makes charitable donations intended to increase human well-beingphlegmatic
showing little emotionpillage
steal goods; take as spoilspine
a coniferous treepiquant
having an agreeably pungent tastepique
a sudden outburst of angerpitch
the property of sound that varies with variation in the frequency of vibrationpith
soft spongelike central cylinder of the stems of most flowering plantsplacate
cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will ofplacid
(of a body of water) free from disturbance by heavy wavesplaintiff
a person who brings an action in a court of lawplaintive
expressing sorrowplatitude
a trite or obvious remark- pleaa humble request for help from someone in authority
plead
appeal or request earnestlyplethora
extreme excess- plodwalk heavily and firmly, as when weary, or through mud
pluck
pull lightly but sharply with a plucking motionplumb
exactly verticalplummet
drop sharplypolemic
a controversy (especially over a belief or dogma)- polymatha person of great and varied learningOften described as a polymath, Sunstein is fluent in political science and churns out books.
—Slate (Apr 12, 2010) ponderous
having great mass and weight and unwieldinessposit
take as a given; assume as a postulate or axiomposture
the arrangement of the body and its limbspractitioner
someone who practices a learned professionpreamble
a preliminary introduction to a statute or constitution (usually explaining its purpose)precarious
not secure; beset with difficultiesprecedence
status established in order of importance or urgencyprecious
of high worth or costprecipice
a very steep cliffprecipitate
bring about abruptlyprecipitous
extremely steeppreclude
make impossible, especially beforehandprecursor
something that precedes and indicates the approach of something or someonepredilection
a predisposition in favor of somethingpredisposition
an inclination beforehand to interpret statements in a particular waypreen
clean with one's billpremise
a statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawnprerogative
a right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right)prescience
the power to foresee the futurepresume
take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proofpresumption
an assumption that is taken for grantedpresumptuous
excessively forwardprevaricate
be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold informationpristine
immaculately clean and unusedprobity
complete and confirmed integrity; having strong moral principlesproclamation
a formal public statementproclivity
a natural inclinationprodigal
recklessly wastefulprodigality
the trait of spending extravagantlyprodigious
so great in size or force or extent as to elicit aweprodigy
an unusually gifted or intelligent (young) person; someone whose talents excite wonder and admirationprofligate
unrestrained by convention or moralityprofound
situated at or extending to great depth; too deep to have been sounded or plumbedprofundity
the quality of being physically deepprofuse
produced or growing in extreme abundanceprolong
lengthen in time; cause to be or last longerprompt
according to schedule or without delay; on timeprone
having a tendency (to); often used in combinationpropensity
a natural inclinationpropitiate
make peace withproposition
a proposal offered for acceptance or rejectionpropriety
correct or appropriate behaviorprosaic
lacking wit or imaginationprotracted
relatively long in duration; tediously protractedprovocation
something that incites or provokes; a means of arousing or stirring to actionprovocative
serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate; stimulating discussion or exciting controversyprudent
careful and sensible; marked by sound judgmentprune
cultivate, tend, and cut back the growth ofpucker
to gather something into small wrinkles or foldspugnacious
tough and callous by virtue of experiencepundit
someone who has been admitted to membership in a scholarly fieldpungent
strong and sharp;"the pungent taste of radishes"pusillanimous
lacking in courage and manly strength and resolution; contemptibly fearfulputrefy
become putrid; decay with an offensive smellquack
the harsh sound of a duckquaff
to swallow hurriedly or greedily or in one draughtqualm
uneasiness about the fitness of an actionquarantine
isolation to prevent the spread of infectious diseasequash
declare invalid- quenchingthe act of extinguishing; causing to stop burning
quibble
evade the truth of a point or question by raising irrelevant objections- quiescencea state of quiet (but possibly temporary) inaction
- quintessentialrepresenting the perfect example of a class or quality
quiver
shake with fast, tremulous movementsquotidian
found in the ordinary course of eventsramification
a development that complicates a situationrampant
unrestrained and violent- rangeran official who is responsible for managing and protecting an area of forest
- rarefylessen the density or solidity of
rash
imprudently incurring riskrationale
(law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)recalcitrant
stubbornly resistant to authority or controlrecant
formally reject or disavow a formerly held belief, usually under pressurerecede
pull back or move away or backwardreciprocal
concerning each of two or more persons or things; especially given or done in returnreckless
marked by defiant disregard for danger or consequencesrecluse
one who lives in solituderecompense
make payment to; compensaterecondite
difficult to penetrate; incomprehensible to one of ordinary understanding or knowledgerecourse
act of turning to for assistanceredeem
exchange or buy back for money; under threatredoubtable
inspiring fearrefractory
stubbornly resistant to authority or controlrefurbish
make brighter and prettier- reinstatebring back into original existence, use, function, or position
- rejoicinga feeling of great happiness
remorse
a feeling of deep regret (usually for some misdeed)rescind
cancel officiallyreticent
reluctant to draw attention to yourselfreverberate
ring or echo with soundrigor
excessive sternnessrotundity
the roundness of a 3-dimensional objectThe greater bulk of the latter is situated immediately beneath the skin, and occasions that beautiful rotundity so much admired in children.
—Blacklock, Ambrosesalvage
the act of rescuing a ship or its crew or its cargo from a shipwreck or a firesate
fill to satisfactionsaturnine
bitter or scornfulsavant
someone who has been admitted to membership in a scholarly field- scatteredlacking orderly continuity
sedulous
marked by care and persistent effort- shatterbreak into many pieces
shirk
avoid (one's assigned duties)shrill
having or emitting a high-pitched and sharp tone or tones- shuckmaterial consisting of seed coverings and small pieces of stem or leaves that have been separated from the seeds
shun
avoid and stay away from deliberately; stay clear of- shunta conductor having low resistance in parallel with another device to divert a fraction of the current
simper
smile affectedly or derisivelysinister
stemming from evil characteristics or forces; wicked or dishonorable- sipdrink in sips
skeptical
marked by or given to doubt- sketchygiving only major points; lacking completeness
skiff
any of various small boats propelled by oars or by sails or by a motorslack
not tense or taut- sloppylacking neatness or order
slur
utter indistinctlysmother
deprive of oxygen and prevent from breathingsober
not affected by a chemical substance (especially alcohol)somber
grave or even gloomy in charactersordid
foul and run-down and repulsivespecious
plausible but false- spellwrite or name the letters that comprise the conventionally accepted form of (a word or part of a word)
spendthrift
someone who spends money prodigally- spinethe series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord
sporadic
recurring in scattered and irregular or unpredictable instancesspurious
plausible but falsesqualid
foul and run-down and repulsivesquander
spend thoughtlessly; throw away- squelchsuppress or crush completely
stake
a strong wooden or metal post with a point at one end so it can be driven into the groundstark
severely simple- startleto stimulate to action
steadfast
marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakablesteep
having a sharp inclinationstickler
someone who insists on something- stiffincapable of or resistant to bending
stifled
held in check with difficultystigma
a symbol of disgrace or infamy- stigmatizeto accuse or condemn or openly or formally or brand as disgraceful
stint
supply sparingly and with restricted quantitiesstipulate
specify as a condition or requirement in a contract or agreement; make an express demand or provision in an agreementstockade
fortification consisting of a fence made of a line of stout posts set firmly for defensestoop
bend one's back forward from the waist on downstrain
to exert much effort or energystray
wander from a direct course or at randomstriate
marked with stria or striationsstrive
attempt by employing effortstrut
to walk with a lofty proud gait, often in an attempt to impress otherssubdue
put down by force or intimidationsuborn
incite to commit a crime or an evil deedsubpoena
a writ issued by court authority to compel the attendance of a witness at a judicial proceeding; disobedience may be punishable as a contempt of courtsubsequent
following in time or ordersubside
sink to a lower level or form a depressionsubstantial
having substance or capable of being treated as fact; not imaginarysuccumb
consent reluctantlysupplant
take the place or move into the position ofsupplicate
ask for humbly or earnestly, as in prayersusceptible
(often followed by `of' or `to') yielding readily to or capable ofsway
move back and forth or sidewaysswift
moving very fastswindle
deprive of by deceit- syncopatedstressing a normally weak beat
tacit
implied by or inferred from actions or statementstaciturn
habitually reserved and uncommunicative- tamppress down tightly
tangential
of superficial relevance if anytangible
perceptible by the senses especially the sense of touch- tantalizeharass with persistent criticism or carping
- tapestrya wall hanging of heavy handwoven fabric with pictorial designs
tarnish
make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphoricallytaut
pulled or drawn tighttemperate
not extremetenable
based on sound reasoning or evidencetentative
unsettled in mind or opiniontepid
moderately warmtirade
a speech of violent denunciationtopple
fall down, as if collapsingtorment
intense feelings of suffering; acute mental or physical paintorpid
in a condition of biological rest or suspended animationtorpor
a state of motor and mental inactivity with a partial suspension of sensibilityJust as often, though, it was in search of an anchor, approaching torpor.
—New York Times (May 6, 2011)tout
advertize in strongly positive termstraitor
a person who says one thing and does another- trampletread or stomp heavily or roughly
transgress
act in disregard of laws, rules, contracts, or promisestreacherous
dangerously unstable and unpredictabletremor
an involuntary vibration (as if from illness or fear)trenchant
having keenness and forcefulness and penetration in thought, expression, or intellecttrepidation
a feeling of alarm or dread- trucea state of peace agreed to between opponents so they can discuss peace terms
- truculenceobstreperous and defiant aggressivenessHe shoved his horse past me and up to Miss Bennett, his red moustache bristling, truculence in every outline of his heavy shoulders.
—Ross, Martin turpitude
a corrupt or depraved or degenerate act or practicetyro
someone new to a field or activityunequivocal
admitting of no doubt or misunderstanding; having only one meaning or interpretation and leading to only one conclusionuntenable
(of theories etc) incapable of being defended or justifieduntoward
not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite societyuphold
stand up for; stick up for; of causes, principles, or ideals- uproara state of commotion and noise and confusion
usurp
seize and take control without authority and possibly with force; take as one's right or possessionvacillate
be undecided about something; waver between conflicting positions or courses of actionvagary
an unexpected and inexplicable change in something (in a situation or a person's behavior, etc.)vagrant
a wanderer who has no established residence or visible means of supportvaliant
having or showing valorvanity
feelings of excessive pride- varnisha coating that provides a hard, lustrous, transparent finish to a surface
vehemence
intensity or forcefulness of expressionvenerable
profoundly honoredvenerate
regard with feelings of respect and reverence; consider hallowed or exalted or be in awe ofveracious
habitually speaking the truthveracity
unwillingness to tell liesverdant
characterized by abundance of verdureveritable
not counterfeit or copiedvertigo
a reeling sensation; a feeling that you are about to fallvex
cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritationsviable
capable of life or normal growth and developmentvicious
having the nature of vicevigilance
the process of paying close and continuous attentionvigor
forceful exertionvilify
spread negative information aboutvindicate
show to be right by providing justification or proofvindictive
disposed to seek revenge or intended for revenge- vituperatespread negative information about
vituperative
marked by harshly abusive criticismTennessee Williams’s later work would be lucky to be deemed problematic, so vituperative have commentators been in their appraisals over time.
—New York Times (May 17, 2011)vogue
a current state of general acceptance and use- volubilitythe quality of being facile in speech and writing
- voluptuousdisplaying luxury and furnishing gratification to the senses
voracious
devouring or craving food in great quantitiesvulnerable
capable of being wounded or hurtwan
become pale and sicklywardrobe
a tall piece of furniture that provides storage space for clothes; has a door and rails or hooks for hanging clotheswary
marked by keen caution and watchful prudencewaver
pause or hold back in uncertainty or unwillingnessweary
physically and mentally fatiguedwelter
a confused multitude of thingswheedle
influence or urge by gentle urging, caressing, or flatteringwhimsical
determined by chance or impulse or whim rather than by necessity or reasonDessert is an afterthought at Topaz Thai: her daughter, Aliyah, concocts some whimsicalconfections, like fried Oreos and brownies served with ice cream.
—New York Times (Mar 9, 2012)- wilethe use of tricks to deceive someone (usually to extract money from them)
withhold
hold back; refuse to hand over or shareBy doing so, we are withholding from our neediest students any reason to read at all.
—New York Times (Apr 23, 2012)zealot
a fervent and even militant proponent of somethingTyranny likes courtiers, flatterers, followers, fawners, and superstition wants believers, disciples,zealots, hypocrites, and subscribers.
—Ingersoll, Robert Greenzenith
the point above the observer that is directly opposite the nadir on the imaginary sphere against which celestial bodies appear to be projectedPerformance increased at a slower pace after age 20, reaching a zenith of 83 percent correct responses for study volunteers between ages 30 and 34.
—US News (Dec 14, 2010)zephyr
a slight wind (usually refreshing)Thy zephyrs soft, thy falling showers, No more have charms for me; Maternal Summer, too, adieu!—
—Ballou, Maturin Murray
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