APS SAT Word List - 2005 - KMSchecter

equilibrium ee kwuh LIB ree um

a state of balance between opposing forces The acrobats need a good sense of equilibrium in order to perform the tricks. Synonyms : balance, poise Antonyms : imbalance Derivatives : equilibriums, equilibrize, equilibrate Lesson: 35 Word: 5

dither DITH ur

a state of trembling excitement or fear; vacillation; a trembling; vibration I am in a dither about whose offer to accept to the prom. Synonyms : Antonyms : action with assurance Derivatives : dithered, dithering, dithery Lesson: 37 Word: 7

cascade kas KADE

a steep waterfall or series of waterfalls, a continuous series The canoe disappeared under the cascade of water into the hidden passageway in the cliff. Synonyms : Antonyms : trickle of water Derivatives : cascaded, cascading Lesson: 58 Word: 4

stoic STOW ik

a stoical person; not showing passion or feeling, indifference, impassive The umpire remained quite stoic despite the manager's screaming and the intense booing of the crowd. Synonyms : apathetic, phlegmatic, stolid Antonyms : impassioned; ardent Derivatives : stoical, stoically, stoicism Lesson: 10 Word: 20

prostration pros TRAY shun

a stretching out due to lacking vitality and being completely overcome During late summer football practices, players sometimes suffer from heat prostration. Synonyms : Antonyms : vitality Derivatives : prostrate, prostrator, prostrating Lesson: 22 Word: 17

bulwark BOOL wark

a strong defense or something that defends Nuclear arms are our bulwark against invasion. Synonyms : Antonyms : weakness Derivatives : bulwarks Lesson: 37 Word: 3

revulsion reh VUL shun

a strong feeling of disgust or repugnance Everyone should have a revulsion for child abuse. Synonyms : Antonyms : attraction; appreciation Derivatives : revulsant,revulsionary, revulsive Lesson: 35 Word: 20

wanderlust WAHN dur lust

a strong impulse to travel The wanderlust inside me was so strong that I could not keep from traveling during the summer. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : wanderlustful Lesson: 63 Word: 25

penchant PEN chunt

a strong inclination He has a penchant for chemistry, and he has won many science awards. Synonyms : leaning, proclivity, propensity Antonyms : disinclination Derivatives : penchants Lesson: 13 Word: 19

forte FORE tay

a strong point of a person; that in which one excels Judging from the poorly baked chicken, cooking is not her forte. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 59 Word: 9

alloy AL oh ee

a substance that is a mixture of metals This alloy is less expensive than pure gold since it is composed of a mixture of metals. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : alloyed, alloying, alloyage Lesson: 31 Word: 1

nuance NOO awns

a subtle distinction or difference The nuance of flavor cannot be described adequately. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : nuances, nuanced, nuancing Lesson: 20 Word: 16

whim HWIM

a sudden and impulsive action Our trip to Washington was a mere whim. Synonyms : caprice, crotchet, vagary Antonyms : Derivatives : whims, whimmed, whimming Lesson: 35 Word: 25

recapitulation ree kuh pich uh LAY

a summary It is usually a good idea for a teacher to give a recapitulation of the previous day's topics. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : recapitulate, recapitulationist, recapitulative, recapitulatory, recapitulatively Lesson: 23 Word: 23

epitome eh PIT uh mee

a summary or brief representation of something That student is the epitome of the successful graduate. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : epitomator, epitomical, epitomic, epitomist, epitomize, epitomizer Lesson: 41 Word: 5

codicil KODD uh sil

a supplement or an amendment (usually to a will) The boy was left a small inheritance by the codicil in his father's will. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : codicillary Lesson: 48 Word: 5

buttress BUH tris

a support or prop Many cathedrals are supported by buttresses. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : buttresses, buttressless Lesson: 8 Word: 4

curmudgeon kur MUJ un

a surly, ill-mannered person; a grumpy person -- usually an old man Grandpa, being dissatisfied with everything, has become a curmudgeon. Synonyms : Antonyms : placid person Derivatives : curmudgeonly Lesson: 51 Word: 7

ambience AM bee uns

a surrounding or pervading atmosphere The girl was hesitant to move out into the world and away from the ambience of exclusively female friendships. Synonyms : environment Antonyms : Derivatives : ambient, ambiences Lesson: 59 Word: 1

moratorium mor uh TORE ee um

a suspension of activity The major nuclear nations have passed a moratorium on nuclear weapons testing. Synonyms : Antonyms : period of activity Derivatives : moratory Lesson: 43 Word: 17

dogma DOG muh

a system of beliefs or principles The foreigner was anxious to learn the dogma of the church since he had never been exposed to it. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : dogmatic Lesson: 27 Word: 7

epithet EP uh thet

a term or phrase describing or characterizing The "sultan of swat" is an epithet describing Babe Ruth. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : epithetic, epithetical, epithetize Lesson: 54 Word: 5

diorama die uh RAM uh

a three-dimensional miniature scene with painted model figures The student built a diorama for his project. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : dioramic Lesson: 59 Word: 6

fiasco fee AS ko

a total failure and a mess The man's attempt to run the business was such a fiasco that a small fortune was lost because of his failure. Synonyms : Antonyms : unqualified success Derivatives : fiascoes, fiascos Lesson: 30 Word: 10

maelstrom MALE strum

a turbulent whirlpool It is dangerous to swim close to a dam because of maelstroms. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : maelstroms Lesson: 63 Word: 13

sieve SIV

a utensil for sifting or straining The manager complained that his second baseman fielded ground balls like a sieve. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sieving Lesson: 60 Word: 22

paradigm PAIR uh dim, -dime

a very good example or model The English teacher gave the students a sample outline as a paradigm of good work. Synonyms : Antonyms : a bad example Derivatives : paradigmatic, paradigmatical, paradigmatically, paradigmatize Lesson: 36 Word: 15

myriad MIR ee id

a very large and indefinite number The myriad of races and cultures that make up America is said to resemble a mosaic. Synonyms : Antonyms : small number Derivatives : myriadfold, myriadly Lesson: 32 Word: 17

edifice ED uh fis

a very large building This particular edifice has the title of being the tallest building in the world. Synonyms : Antonyms : shack; small building Derivatives : Lesson: 27 Word: 8

precipice PRES uh pis

a very steep cliff or mass of rock, the brink of something dangerous Some mountain climbers enjoy climbing a steep precipice. Synonyms : Antonyms : cavern Derivatives : precipices Lesson: 40 Word: 20

anathema uh NATH uh muh

a vigorous denunciation; one who is intensely disliked The rebellious boy continued in his wayward actions despite the anathema pronounced by his father. Synonyms : imprecation, curse Antonyms : Derivatives : anathemas, anathematic, anathematical, anathematically, anathemation, anathematize, anathemize Lesson: 32 Word: 2

annulment uh NUL munt

a voiding, invalidation The two parties sought an annulment to the contract that bound them together. Synonyms : abrogation, invalidation, negation, nullification, extirpation Antonyms : consummation Derivatives : annul, annulled, annulling, annulable Lesson: 18 Word: 2

vagrant VAY grunt

a wanderer who does not have a home There are many vagrants who sleep under freeways in urban areas. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vagrance, vagrancy, vagrantly Lesson: 19 Word: 25

profligate PROF luh git

a wasteful person; extremely wasteful, given to licentiousness The profligate son wasted the family fortune on wine, women, and song. Synonyms : Antonyms : thrifty Derivatives : profligacy, profligated, profligately, profligateness Lesson: 15 Word: 18

dowager DOW uh jur

a widow who holds a title from her husband, an elderly woman of society That little resort town is a favorite place of many wealthy dowagers. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : dowagers Lesson: 52 Word: 6

adage AD ij

a wise saying The early bird catches the worm is an old adage. Synonyms : proverb, maxim, motto Antonyms : Derivatives : adagial Lesson: 49 Word: 1

coquette ko KET

a woman who flirts with men without sincere affection The young woman flirted coquettishly with the man. Synonyms : Antonyms : prude Derivatives : coquetry, coquet, coquetted, coquetting, coquettish, coquettishly, coquettishness Lesson: 65 Word: 5

malapropism MAL eh prop iz um

a word that is used incorrectly in a ridiculous manner Archie Bunker is known for his malapropisms. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : malapropos, malaprop, malapropian Lesson: 65 Word: 14

compliance kum PLY uns

a yielding; acquiescence We intend to be in full compliance with the court order. Synonyms : Antonyms : rebellion Derivatives : compliant, compliantly, compliancy, compliable, compliableness, compliably Lesson: 19 Word: 5

whelp HWELP

a young offspring of a mammal We saw the tracks of the mother wolf and two large whelps. Synonyms : Antonyms : parent Derivatives : whelpless Lesson: 46 Word: 25

compost KOM post

a composition of largely decaying matter used as fertilizer A compost plant produces fertilizer from garbage. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : composts Lesson: 51 Word: 6

coda KO duh

a concluding portion of a musical or dramatic work The composition had a coda that was in itself delightful. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : codas Lesson: 46 Word: 3

mobile (noun) MO bul, MO beel

a construction consisting of parts that move as a result of air currents The geometry classroom was decorated with many mobiles hanging from the ceiling. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : mobiles Lesson: 64 Word: 13

automaton aw TOM uh ton

a creature acting in a mechanical way with no indication of intelligence Television often produces dull, unthinking human automatons. Synonyms : robot Antonyms : Derivatives : automatous, automatons Lesson: 58 Word: 2

malefactor MAL uh fak tur

a criminal The candidate for attorney general said that he will see that all malefactors are locked up. Synonyms : Antonyms : law-abiding citizen Derivatives : malefaction, malefactress, maleficence, malefice, maleficent Lesson: 40 Word: 15

barb BARB

a critical or caustic remark He started the speech with a few barbs for his opponent. Synonyms : Antonyms : kind remark Derivatives : barbs Lesson: 61 Word: 3

eddy ED ee

a current of air or water moving contrary to the main current (circularly) An eddy of wind picked up debris in the street and scattered it along the walks. Synonyms : whirlpool Antonyms : Derivatives : eddies, eddyings Lesson: 26 Word: 9

pestilence PES tuh lens

a deadly epidemic disease; something considered harmful or evil The bubonic plague was a pestilence that killed thousands of people. Synonyms : Antonyms : something harmless Derivatives : pestilent, pestilently, pestilential, pestilentially, pestilentialness Lesson: 45 Word: 17

disinclination dis in kluh NAY shun

a desire to avoid, aversion I have a disinclination to go to Europe this summer since the dollar is worth less. Synonyms : hesitance, loathing, reluctance Antonyms : eagerness Derivatives : disincline, disinclined Lesson: 61 Word: 5

stand STAND

a determined effort for or against something; a determined position taken We must take a stand on this political issue. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 50 Word: 21

lexicon LEK suh kon

a dictionary or alphabetical listing of the words of a profession or subject We looked in many lexicons before we found the definition of that arcane word. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : lexical, lexicality, lexically, lexicographer, lexicography, lexicographically, lexicologist, lexicology Lesson: 62 Word: 11

antithesis an TI thuh sis

a direct opposite, a contrast Good is the antithesis of evil. Synonyms : Antonyms : duplicate; same Derivatives : antithetic, antithetical, antithetically Lesson: 2 Word: 1

malady MAL eh dee

a disease or unwholesome condition The poor old woman seems to suffer one malady after another. Synonyms : Antonyms : good health Derivatives : maladies Lesson: 64 Word: 11

antipathy an TIP uh thee

a dislike, distaste, or enmity The woman's obvious antipathy toward snakes surfaced when she came into contact with the slithering reptile. Synonyms : animosity, animus, antagonism, hostility, rancor Antonyms : propensity; amity Derivatives : antipathetic, antipathic, anthipathist, antipathize, antipathies Lesson: 12 Word: 3

vista VIS tuh

a distant view seen through an opening As he reached the forest, he saw vistas of stone passages leading in many directions. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vistaed, vistas Lesson: 29 Word: 25

aura AW ruh

a distinctive quality about a person, thing, or place Those at the inauguration ceremony had the aura of greatness. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : auras, aural Lesson: 56 Word: 2

hallmark HALL mark

a distinguishing characteristic or trait Honesty is the hallmark of a good judge. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : hallmarks Lesson: 60 Word: 8

schism SIZ um

a division of a group into two discordant groups The club lost half its members because of a schism in the body. Synonyms : breach, faction, discord, disharmony Antonyms : unification Derivatives : schismatic, schisms, schismatical, schismatically, schismatist, schimatize Lesson: 39 Word: 24

oculist OK yuh list

a doctor who specializes in treatment of the eyes The eye disease had to be treated by an oculist. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : ocular, ocularly, oculogyric, oculomotor, oculate Lesson: 62 Word: 13

tenet TEN ut

a doctrine or principle held as being true The principle that only men may become priests is a tenet of that church. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : tenets Lesson: 29 Word: 23

portal PORE tul

a doorway (especially a large one) She stood for a moment in the portal before stepping into the room. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : portaled, portals Lesson: 63 Word: 16

visionary VIZH uh ner ee

a dreamer; one who is impractical Only a visionary would believe that a perfect society is possible. Synonyms : Antonyms : a practical person Derivatives : visionariness Lesson: 54 Word: 24

dolt DOLT

a dull, stupid person; blockhead Hearing stupid statements from such a dolt is not surprising. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : doltish, doltishly, doltishness Lesson: 56 Word: 6

effigy EF eh jee

a dummy or image of a person (usually one who is not liked) The ball team hung the opponent's mascot in effigy at the pep rally before the game. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : effigies Lesson: 28 Word: 9

feint FAYNT

a false appearance, a fake punch to occupy defenses allowing a real blow. Fooled by his opponent's feint, the boxer dropped his guard and was knocked down. Synonyms : artifice, ruse, stratagem, trick, wile Antonyms : Derivatives : feign, feigned, feigning, feignedly, feigner Lesson: 40 Word: 8

matriarchy MAY tree ar kee

a family or state headed or ruled by a female The old woman is the matriarch of the family. Synonyms : Antonyms : patriarchy Derivatives : matriarch, matriarchal, matriarchate Lesson: 40 Word: 16

chimera kuh MEER uh

a fantasy; a horrible creature of the imagination He is not the chimera your fears have made him in your mind. Synonyms : fantasy , vision Antonyms : gentle creature Derivatives : chimerical, chimeric, chimerically Lesson: 10 Word: 5

failing (noun) FAY ling

a fault or defect His main failing is his refusal to admit that he is sometimes wrong. Synonyms : foible, fragility, vice Antonyms : strength Derivatives : failings Lesson: 59 Word: 8

compatriot kum PAY tree ut

a fellow countryman The Lewis and Clark expedition was a journey of two compatriots exploring the unknown regions. Synonyms : Antonyms : traitor Derivatives : compatriotism Lesson: 38 Word: 5

palisade pal eh SADE

a fence made of stakes The soldiers built palisades for protection from the enemy. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : palisading, palisado Lesson: 49 Word: 15

toady TOE dee

a flatterer; an obsequious sycophant The man flattered the woman so much that he appeared like a toady. Synonyms : fawner, yes-man, parasite Antonyms : Derivatives : toadied, toadying, toadyish, toadyism Lesson: 34 Word: 23

influx IN fluks

a flowing or coming in Due to the humid weather, an influx of mosquitoes is expected. Synonyms : Antonyms : outpouring Derivatives : influxion Lesson: 47 Word: 12

adherent ad HEER unt

a follower of something such as a leader, party, philosophy, or profession He is an adherent of the Democratic party. Synonyms : disciple, follower, partisan Antonyms : dissenter Derivatives : adhere, adherer, adherence, adherently Lesson: 29 Word: 1

premonition pree muh NISH un

a forewarning; a feeling of anxiety over a future event He had a vague premonition of danger. Synonyms : presentiment Antonyms : Derivatives : premonitory Lesson: 50 Word: 16

bastion BASS chun

a fortification, a stronghold The enemy could not get past the bastion of the fort and therefore lost the battle. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : bastioned Lesson: 17 Word: 4

sonnet SON it

a fourteen line form of poetry The sonnet is a favorite form of poetry with many writers. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sonnets Lesson: 26 Word: 22

dormer DOR mur

a gabled extension of an attic room; window in such an extension The cat perched on the roof of the dormer and looked down below. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : dormers Lesson: 58 Word: 9

zephyr ZEF ur

a gentle breeze, the west wind The girl's long hair gently rose and fell at the hand of the zephyr. Synonyms : Antonyms : tornado Derivatives : zephyrs, zephryous Lesson: 55 Word: 25

legacy LEG uh see

a gift by will, something handed down by an ancestor or predecessor Most presidents wonder what their legacy to the country will be. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : legacies Lesson: 53 Word: 11

crescendo kruh SHEN doe

a gradual increase in volume and intensity The music began to crescendo into a loud blare. Synonyms : Antonyms : decrescendo; decrease in sound Derivatives : crescendoed, crescendoing Lesson: 48 Word: 6

panache puh NASH

a grand or flamboyant manner; verve; style; flare The actor who plays that role must have panache. Synonyms : Antonyms : drabness Derivatives : Lesson: 52 Word: 15

conservatory kun SIR vuh tor ee

a greenhouse or place where plants are raised; a school for music and art The flower show will be held at the conservatory on the fair grounds. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : conservatories Lesson: 60 Word: 2

fold (noun) FOLD

a group bound together by common beliefs; fenced enclosure for sheep We need to convince him to return to the fold. Synonyms : Antonyms : individuals Derivatives : folds Lesson: 35 Word: 8

archipelago are kuh PEL uh go

a group of islands Synonyms : Antonyms : The sailors were excited when they reached the archipelago. Derivatives : archipelagic Lesson: 21 Word: 2

junta HOON tuh

a group of people who join in running a government (after a revolution) In the early 1980s, Argentina was governed by a military junta composed of generals. Synonyms : Antonyms : patriots Derivatives : juntas, junto Lesson: 51 Word: 11

aplomb uh PLUM

a handling of something with confidence and composure; self-assurance The debutante handled herself with aplomb at the ball. Synonyms : assurance, self-possession, poise Antonyms : undignified behavior Derivatives : aplombs Lesson: 58 Word: 1

misanthrope MIS un thrope

a hater of mankind Hopefully, nuclear weapons will never fall into the hands of a misanthrope. Synonyms : misanthropist Antonyms : philanthropist Derivatives : misanthropy, misanthropic, misanthropically, misanthropical, misanthropism, misanthropize Lesson: 9 Word: 16

altercation al ter KAY shun

a heated or angry dispute; noisy argument or controversy We were not surprised at the altercation of the two enemies; they often fought in public. Synonyms : quarrel, contention Antonyms : accord; agreement Derivatives : altercate, altercated, altercating Lesson: 31 Word: 2

hemophilia hee muh FIL ee uh

a hereditary disease where blood does not coagulate to stop bleeding Getting a slight cut is dangerous for him because of his hemophilia; a small cut can cause him to bleed to death. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : hemophile, hemophiliac, hemophilic, hemophiliod Lesson: 38 Word: 10

pastiche pa STEESH

a hodgepodge The poem is nothing more than a pastiche of images, allusions, and symbols. Synonyms : Antonyms : concert; union Derivatives : pasticheur, pasticcio Lesson: 57 Word: 14

aperture AP uh ture

a hole or an opening The farmer discovered an aperture in his fence that had allowed some cows to escape. Synonyms : Antonyms : closure Derivatives : apertural, apertures, apertured Lesson: 48 Word: 2

cache KASH

a hole or hiding place used to store supplies The child hid his treasured toy in a cache in the corner. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : cached, caching Lesson: 29 Word: 3

abode uh BODE

a home Even though the house is small, he is proud of his humble abode. Synonyms : dwelling, residence, domicile Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 62 Word: 1

stratum STRAY tum, STRAT

a horizontal layer The geologist said that this stratum is composed of limestone. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : stratums Lesson: 58 Word: 22

scribe SKRIBE

a journalist, a public secretary or clerk Sportswriters are often referred to as scribes. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : scribal Lesson: 44 Word: 20

trek TREK

a journey (usually slow and difficult), to migrate The men took a short trek through the mountains. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : trekker, trekking Lesson: 47 Word: 23

tact TAKT

a keen sense for what is appropriate or tasteful in delicate situations The diplomat handled the situation with much tact and courteous behavior. Synonyms : diplomacy, perception, sensitivity, poise Antonyms : Derivatives : tactful, tactfully, tactfulness Lesson: 12 Word: 22

apathy AP uh thee

a lack of concern or feeling, indifference The man looked upon the turn of events with apathy. Synonyms : phlegm, stoicism, stolidness Antonyms : enthusiastic devotion Derivatives : apathetic, apathetical, apathetically Lesson: 13 Word: 2

dearth DERTH

a lack, a scarcity The dearth of water in the arid country led to numerous deaths. Synonyms : paucity Antonyms : adequate supply Derivatives : dearths Lesson: 7 Word: 7

conflagration kon fluh GRAY shun

a large fire Some believe that the earth will be destroyed by a large conflagration. Synonyms : Antonyms : small flame Derivatives : conflagrations, conflagrant, conflagrate, conflagrator, conflagratory Lesson: 7 Word: 6

array uh RAY

a large grouping of things; regular order or arrangement; to clothe The group consisted of an impressive array of scholars. Synonyms : arrange, place; apparel, dress, attire; ornament, adorn, Antonyms : Derivatives : arraying, arrays, arrayed, arrayal Lesson: 48 Word: 3

caldron KAL drun

a large kettle used for boiling The witches stirred their brew in a large caldron. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : caldrons Lesson: 55 Word: 4

floe FLOW

a large sheet of floating ice The tanker had to be careful to avoid the ice floe in the ocean. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : floes Lesson: 46 Word: 8

lampoon lam POON

a light and mocking satire; writing that ridicules in a malicious way The politician was lampooned by the cartoonists. Synonyms : satire, ridicule Antonyms : to glorify Derivatives : lampooner, lampoonery, lampoonist, lampooned, lampooning, lampoons Lesson: 49 Word: 13

affinity uh FIN uh tee

a likeness, a natural relationship, a kinship Having suffered himself, he felt an affinity for the homeless. Synonyms : Antonyms : repulsion Derivatives : affinitive Lesson: 8 Word: 2

by-line BY line

a line at the head of a written article giving the writer's name The young writer looked anxiously at the article to see his name in the by-line. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : byliner Lesson: 53 Word: 3

repertoire REP ur twar

a list of works of music or readings that are ready for performance The orchestra has added some selections of Mozart to its repertoire. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : repertorial, repertorium, repertory Lesson: 17 Word: 20

eon EE un, EE on

a long period of time It seems like it will be eons before I am allowed to date. Synonyms : Antonyms : short time Derivatives : aeon, aeonian, eonian, aeonic, aeonial Lesson: 28 Word: 10

retrospection re truh SPEK shun

a looking back or contemplation of the past A retrospection of his life will reveal that he always worked hard and tried to live by the Golden Rule. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : retrospect, retropsective, retrospectively Lesson: 52 Word: 19

dashiki da SHE kee

a loose and brightly colored tunic or garment The woman's dashiki was purple and gold. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 53 Word: 5

peal PEEL

a loud ringing (usually of bells) The church bells pealed at noon to celebrate the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : pealed, pealing Lesson: 59 Word: 16

repast reh PAST

a meal The governor showed the dignitaries into a large hall for a sumptuous repast. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : repasts, repasted, repasting Lesson: 60 Word: 20

sectarian sek TARE ee un

a member of a sect that is a faction with extreme beliefs His sectarian beliefs marked him as being extremely narrow-minded. Synonyms : narrow-minded Antonyms : broad-minded Derivatives : sectarianism, sectarianize Lesson: 22 Word: 20

postscript POSTskript

a message appended at the end of a letter Sometimes a person will add information in a postscript when he forgets to include it in the letter. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : postscripts Lesson: 65 Word: 19

sluggard SLUG urd

a person who is lazy Let's fire him. Not only is he slovenly, but he is also a sluggard. Synonyms : Antonyms : energetic person Derivatives : sluggardly, sluggardness Lesson: 16 Word: 22

recluse REK loos

a person who lives in solitude, a hermit Howard Hughes is the most famous recluse of the century. Synonyms : Antonyms : cosmopolitan Derivatives : reclusion, reclusive Lesson: 9 Word: 20

epicure EP uh kyoor

a person who understands a lot about food and drink, a connoisseur The extravagant party was enjoyed most by the epicure who indulged in sensual delight. Synonyms : gastronome, gourmet, gourmand Antonyms : ascetic Derivatives : epicureal, epicurial, epicurean, epicureanism, epicureous, epicurism, Lesson: 53 Word: 8

bourgeois BOOR zhwah

a person with the traits or viewpoints of the bourgeoisie Your outdated ideas are so bourgeois. Synonyms : middle class, mediocre Antonyms : Derivatives : bourgeoisie Lesson: 32 Word: 5

plenitude PLEN eh tood

abundance, a lot I can always find a plenitude of advice but rarely a plausible solution. Synonyms : Antonyms : dearth; scarcity Derivatives : plenitudinous Lesson: 33 Word: 16

copious KO pee us

abundant I always take copious notes in my history class. Synonyms : ample Antonyms : sparse Derivatives : copiousness, copiously Lesson: 22 Word: 5

luxuriant lug ZHOOR ee unt

abundant in growth, very fertile The luxuriant farmland of Iowa provides an abundant amount of food. Synonyms : lavish, lush, prodigal, profuse Antonyms : scanty Derivatives : luxuriance, luxurancy, luxuriantly, luxuriate, luxurious, luxuriously, luxuriousness, luxury Lesson: 12 Word: 13

prolific pro LIF ik

abundantly fruitful, marked by great productivity Since he has written a great number of books in a short period, Stephen King is known as a prolific writer. Synonyms : fecund, fertile Antonyms : barren; unfruitful Derivatives : proliferation, proliferate, proliferative, proliferous, proliferously Lesson: 2 Word: 21

vituperation vie too puh RAY shun

abusive remarks He expressed his contempt with vituperation. Synonyms : Antonyms : praise; commendation Derivatives : vituperate, vituperative, vituperator, vituperatory, vituperous Lesson: 56 Word: 24

autocrat AW toe krat

a person with unlimited influence and authority (usually a negative word) The people wanted to overthrow the despotic autocrat. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : autocracy, autocratic, autocratical, autocratically Lesson: 57 Word: 3

mosaic mow ZAY ik

a picture made by using various small pieces of multicolored material The myriad of races and cultures that make up America is said to resemble a mosaic. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : mosaicist, mosaically, mosaical Lesson: 35 Word: 13

icon EYE kon

a picture, image, or other representation Different programs on some computer menus are represented by icons. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : iconic, iconical, iconically, iconicity Lesson: 59 Word: 10

conduit KON doo it

a pipe or tube for conveying water or other fluids, flume The water ran through a conduit to the outside of the building. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 55 Word: 5

aviary A vee air ee

a place for keeping birds Many birds were in the aviary. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : aviaries Lesson: 41 Word: 2

bedlam BED lum

a place or scene of wild and mad uproar; an extremely confusing scene After the arousing speech, the meeting became utter bedlam. Synonyms : Antonyms : a peaceful and calm scene Derivatives : bedlamer, bedlamite Lesson: 64 Word: 2

entreaty en TREE tee

a plea, an earnest request The lawyer made a lengthy entreaty to the jury before they retired to chambers. Synonyms : adjuration, appeal, suit, importunity, supplication Antonyms : denial Derivatives : entreat, entreatingly, entreatment Lesson: 10 Word: 8

juncture JUNGK chur

a point of joining His new book emphasizes the importance of the juncture of poetry and music into a new art form. Synonyms : Antonyms : separation Derivatives : junctural, junctional Lesson: 65 Word: 13

caricature KARE uh kuh chur

a portrayal where features are distorted, a parody The caricature of the presidential nominee was hysterical. Synonyms : burlesque, travesty Antonyms : somber portrait Derivatives : caricatured, caricaturing, caricaturist Lesson: 13 Word: 4

sleeper SLEE pur

a possible winner of a contest that is given little chance to win That horse paid such good odds because he was a real sleeper. Synonyms : Antonyms : predicted winner Derivatives : sleepers Lesson: 63 Word: 19

effusion eh FYOO zhun

a pouring forth (usually overdone in writing or speech) The effusion of profane language in his speech offended many. Synonyms : Antonyms : restraint; reserve Derivatives : effuse, effusive, effusiveness, effusively Lesson: 29 Word: 9

catharsis kuh THAR sis

a purification or purging of emotions that brings about spiritual renewal The child had so many repressed emotions that a catharsis was needed to restore his normal state of mind. Synonyms : Antonyms : repression Derivatives : catharses, cathartic, cathartically Lesson: 27 Word: 6

neophyte NEE uh fite

a recent convert, beginner, novice Being a neophyte to surfing, he is having trouble catching a wave. Synonyms : Antonyms : veteran Derivatives : neophytic, neophytism Lesson: 24 Word: 15

reprise reh PRIZE

a recurrence, renewal, or resumption of an action The battle was noted for the reprise of attacks by the enemy. Synonyms : recapitulation, repetition Antonyms : Derivatives : reprisal, reprised, reprising Lesson: 43 Word: 21

refrain (noun) reh FRAIN

a recurring phrase or verse The congregation joined in singing the refrain of the hymn. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : refrainment Lesson: 48 Word: 18

facsimile fak SIM uh lee

a reproduction or exact copy The artist was commissioned to paint a facsimile of the masterpiece. Synonyms : Antonyms : original Derivatives : facsimiles, facsimilist, facsimilize Lesson: 50 Word: 8

respite RES pit

a rest, a delay, a period of relief I enjoy a quiet lunch that serves a respite from my tense job of being an air traffic controller. Synonyms : Antonyms : continuance Derivatives : respiteless Lesson: 14 Word: 22

homage HOM ij

a reverential regard; respect shown by external action The people went to pay homage to their respected leader. Synonyms : honor, reverence, deference, obeisance Antonyms : disrespect Derivatives : homages,homager Lesson: 33 Word: 9

precept PREE sept

a rule guiding conduct or imposing a standard A favorite precept by which many people live is "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : preceptist, preceptive Lesson: 44 Word: 18

swatch SWOCH

a sample piece from some cloth or other item He brought a book of swatches to help me choose the material for the curtains. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : swatches Lesson: 53 Word: 21

maxim MAK sim

a saying of proverbial nature; a general truth or principle; rule of conduct The maxim "a penny saved is a penny earned" is a favorite with many people. Synonyms : proverb Antonyms : Derivatives : maxims, maximist Lesson: 53 Word: 12

savant suh VAHNT, SAY vant

a scholar, a learned person Woodrow Wilson is an example of a savant who became president . Synonyms : Antonyms : dunce Derivatives : savants Lesson: 24 Word: 20

sycophant SIK uh funt

a self-serving flatterer, a brownnoser A wise ruler will not pay attention to the many sycophants who will try to gain his attention. Synonyms : leech, sponge, toady Antonyms : Derivatives : sycophancy, sycophantic, sycophantical, sychophantically, sychophantize, sychophantish, sychophantishly Lesson: 6 Word: 23

dotard DOE turd

a senile person Talking to the dotard was difficult because he often forgot where he was. Synonyms : Antonyms : youth Derivatives : dotards, dotage Lesson: 46 Word: 5

calamity kuh LAM uh tee

a serious event causing distress or misfortune The earthquake in Mexico was a calamity. Synonyms : cataclysm, catastrophe Antonyms : good fortune Derivatives : calamitous, calamitously, calamitousness Lesson: 5 Word: 7

demarcation dee mar KAY shun

a setting or marking of a boundary Latitudinal or longitudinal lines are often used as demarcation lines between states or countries. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : demarcate, demarcated, demarcating, demarcator Lesson: 59 Word: 5

epilogue EP uh log

a short addition to a literary work, a short speech given at the end of a play The author's intent in writing the novel can be found in the epilogue. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : epilog, epilogist, epilogues, epologuize Lesson: 33 Word: 5

vignette vin YET

a short descriptive literary sketch or a short scene from a movie During the sesquicentennial, some television stations presented one-minute vignettes about the state's history. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vignetter, vignetting, vignettist Lesson: 50 Word: 24

parable PAIR uh bul

a short fictitious story that has a moral Jesus often imparted knowledge to his disciples through parables. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : parables Lesson: 24 Word: 17

anecdote AN ek dote

a short story of an interesting or amusing incident A raconteur is a person who is very good at telling anecdotes. Synonyms : story, tale, narrative Antonyms : Derivatives : anecdotage, anecdotal, anecdotic, anecdotical, anecdotalist, anecdotally, anecdotically Lesson: 65 Word: 3

portent PORE tent

a sign or forewarning The stock market crash was a portent of the coming of a depression. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : portentive, portentous, portentously, portentousness Lesson: 14 Word: 19

simper SIM pur

a silly or self-conscious smile, smirk The young man made the silly remark with a simper. Synonyms : Antonyms : frown Derivatives : simperer, simpering, simpered, simperingly Lesson: 61 Word: 23

somnambulist som NAM byuh list

a sleepwalker Many people with sleeping disorders are classified as somnambulists. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : somnambulic, somnambulant, somnambular, somnambulation, somnambule, somnambulism, somnambulistic Lesson: 25 Word: 18

peccadillo pek uh DILL oh

a slight offense, a small fault The I. R. S. does not consider failure to pay taxes a mere peccadillo. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : peccadilloes Lesson: 60 Word: 16

snippet SNIP it

a small amount, morsel The professor learned mere snippets about the tribes he had visited. Synonyms : Antonyms : large amount Derivatives : snippiness, snippety, snippy Lesson: 34 Word: 20

spangle SPANG gul

a small circular piece of glittering material used for decorating garments Her dress was decorated with multi-colored spangles. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : spangled, spangly Lesson: 46 Word: 22

coterie KO tuh ree

a small group that shares interests Fraternities and sororities were formed from coteries. Synonyms : Antonyms : individual Derivatives : coteries Lesson: 43 Word: 5

melodeon muh LOW dee un

a small reed organ Music poured forth from the melodeon after he put in a nickel. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : melodeons Lesson: 56 Word: 13

knoll NOLE

a small round hill The young deer stood upon the knoll and looked out over the pond that lay beneath him. Synonyms : Antonyms : mountain Derivatives : knolls Lesson: 41 Word: 9

rivulet RIV yuh let

a small stream, brook The small rivulet had almost dried up for lack of rain. Synonyms : Antonyms : river Derivatives : rivulets Lesson: 57 Word: 18

balm BALLM

a soothing substance or one that gives relief The balm caused the pain of the sunburn to subside and then to diminish. Synonyms : Antonyms : irritant Derivatives : balmily, balminess, balmy, balms, balmed, balming Lesson: 60 Word: 1

baneful BANE ful

a source of harm or destruction; harmful, destructive Overeating was the bane of her existence. The baneful herbs made the woman extremely ill. Synonyms : deleterious, detrimental, noxious, pernicious Antonyms : benign influence; harmless Derivatives : baneful, banefully, banefulness Lesson: 15 Word: 4

cleft CLEFT

a space or opening made by cleavage, a split The cleft in the mountain side was so great that it could not be crossed. Synonyms : fissure, crevice, crack, rift, cranny, chasm, crevasse Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 44 Word: 4

soliloquy suh LIL uh kwee

a speech or dramatic monologue made to oneself to reveal thoughts Hamlet's soliloquy in the graveyard is a popular piece to memorize. Synonyms : Antonyms : conversation; dialogue Derivatives : soliquist, soliloquize, soliloquizer, soliloquizingly Lesson: 62 Word: 21

incantation in kan TAY shun

a spell, written or recited formula of words designed for a particular effect The purpose of the witch doctor's incantations was to scare evil spirits. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : incant, incantational, incantatory Lesson: 19 Word: 12

pulchritude PUL kreh tood

beauty, comeliness Members of the drill team must have talent and pulchritude. Synonyms : Antonyms : ugliness Derivatives : pulchritudinous Lesson: 43 Word: 20

intrinsic in TRIN sik

belonging to or pertaining to the essential nature of a thing Although the intrinsic value of this ring is small, its sentimental value is great since it is from my first love. Synonyms : Antonyms : extraneous Derivatives : intrinsically, intrinsicalness, intrinsical Lesson: 43 Word: 15

subterranean sub tuh RAY nee un

below ground The subterranean tunnel connected the two buildings. Synonyms : Antonyms : above ground Derivatives : subterraneous, subterraneanly Lesson: 63 Word: 20

sinuous SIN yoo us

bending in and out in a serpentine or wavy form The land was covered with a sinuous system of canals and irrigation ditches. Synonyms : winding, intricate, complex Antonyms : straight Derivatives : sinuosity, sinuously, sinuousness Lesson: 36 Word: 20

stooped STOOPD

bent forward from the middle of the back Some farm workers become stooped from many years of bending over in the fields. Synonyms : Antonyms : erect Derivatives : stoop, stooping, stoops Lesson: 57 Word: 21

corrugated KOR uh gay ted

bent into folds A corrugated box absorbs shock and helps to protect its contents. Synonyms : Antonyms : smooth Derivatives : corrugate, corrugating Lesson: 21 Word: 7

superfluous soo PUR floo us

beyond what is needed or required, an overflow The meeting lasted so long because of many superfluous comments by some of the speakers. Synonyms : Antonyms : necessary Derivatives : superfluously, superfluousness, superfluent, superfluity Lesson: 1 Word: 24

rancor RANG kur

bitter deep-seated ill will, enmity I was full of rancor when I learned that the men had killed my parents. Synonyms : animosity, animus, antagonism, antipathy, hostility Antonyms : affection; kindness Derivatives : rancored, rancorous, rancorously Lesson: 6 Word: 22

diatribe DIE uh tribe

bitter denunciation or criticism, anathema The new actress could not take the vicious diatribes of the critics. Synonyms : Antonyms : acclaim; praise Derivatives : diatribes Lesson: 39 Word: 7

scathing SKAY thing

bitterly severe; harmful, injurious The critics gave a scathing review of the play. Synonyms : Antonyms : harmless Derivatives : scathingly Lesson: 43 Word: 22

palette PAL it

board on which a painter mixes paints The artist mixed her colors on the palette rather than on the canvas. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : palettes Lesson: 48 Word: 14

hilarity heh LAR eh tee

boisterous merriment, mirth The party was marked by great hilarity. Synonyms : glee, jollity Antonyms : gloominess Derivatives : hilarious, hilariously, hilariousness Lesson: 32 Word: 13

bestial BES chul

brutal without reason, having the attributes of a savage The bestial traits of the man were offensive to refined ladies. Synonyms : Antonyms : civilized Derivatives : bestiality, bestialize, bestialized, bestializing Lesson: 36 Word: 3

interred in TURD

buried He was interred by the avalanche. Synonyms : Antonyms : exhumed; disinterred Derivatives : inter, interment Lesson: 35 Word: 11

malleable MAL ee uh bul

capable of being shaped, influenced, or altered; tractable Gold is a malleable metal. Synonyms : plastic, pliable, pliant, ductile Antonyms : unpliable Derivatives : malleability, malleabilization, malleableize, malleableness Lesson: 15 Word: 14

tensile TEN sul

capable of being stretched The material could be made to fit several sizes because it was tensile. Synonyms : Antonyms : inelastic Derivatives : tensibility, tensible, tensibleness, tensibly Lesson: 58 Word: 23

tangible TAN juh bul

capable of being touched; real or actual rather than imaginary The man had no tangible assets such as a home or a car, but he had much to offer in terms of personality. Synonyms : palpable, corporeal; certain, genuine Antonyms : imaginary; not able to be touched Derivatives : tangibility, tangibleness, tangibly Lesson: 51 Word: 22

versatile VUR suh til

capable of doing many things; having many uses Colleges are seeking versatile students who will be active in many areas of collegiate life. Synonyms : Antonyms : unadaptable Derivatives : versatilely, versatileness, versatility Lesson: 46 Word: 24

buoyant BOY unt

capable of floating; cheerful Because the log was buoyant, it stayed afloat. The girl's buoyant spirit made her pleasant company. Synonyms : Antonyms : likely to sink Derivatives : buoyancy, buoyance, buoyantly, buoyantness, buoy Lesson: 5 Word: 5

fallible FAL uh bul

capable of making an error All humans are fallible because none are perfect. Synonyms : Antonyms : not likely to be erroneous Derivatives : fallibilism, fallibilist, fallibilistic, fallibility, fallibleness, fallibly Lesson: 43 Word: 11

fecund FEE kund, FEK und

capable of reproducing, intellectual productivity The Amazon, with abundant plant and animal life, is a fecund area. Synonyms : fertile, fruitful, prolific Antonyms : barren Derivatives : fecundate, fecundation, fecundative, fecundator, fecundity Lesson: 26 Word: 12

viable VIE uh bul

capable of working, functioning, or developing adequately He is a viable candidate because he has experience and can attract votes. Synonyms : Antonyms : moribund; incapable of Derivatives : viability, viably Lesson: 10 Word: 25

variegated VAR ee uh gay tid

changed in appearance by using or applying different colors The variegated roses were not only beautiful, but were also extremely unusual. Synonyms : Antonyms : same; alike Derivatives : variegate, variegation, variegator Lesson: 25 Word: 23

capricious kuh PRISH us

changing suddenly, fickle Her capricious moods are difficult to anticipate. Synonyms : inconstant, mercurial, unstable Antonyms : stable Derivatives : caprice, capriciously, capriciousness Lesson: 2 Word: 7

mercurial mur KYOOR ee ul

changing unpredictably, fickle Due to his mercurial temperament, employees always approached him carefully, unsure of what his mood would be. Synonyms : capricious, inconstant, unstable Antonyms : stolid Derivatives : mercuriality, mercurially Lesson: 20 Word: 15

vacillating VAS uh lay ting

changing, fluctuating I have vacillating opinions concerning my future career. Synonyms : Antonyms : static; stable; not easily changed Derivatives : vacillate, vacillatingly, vacillation, vacillatory, vacillator Lesson: 6 Word: 24

resolute REZ uh loot

characterized by a decided purpose The business was run by a resolute man who set his mind on a goal and followed through with it. Synonyms : staunch, steadfast, determined, resolved, faithful, firm Antonyms : Derivatives : resoluter, resolutest, resolutely, resoluteness, resolution, resolutionary, resolutioner, resolutive Lesson: 22 Word: 19

sedentary SED un ter ee

characterized by a sitting posture Because he could not stand, he looked for a sedentary occupation. Synonyms : Antonyms : characterized by a standing position Derivatives : sedentarily, sedentariness Lesson: 50 Word: 20

agile AJ uhl

characterized by ability to move quickly with suppleness and grace The girl's agile movements were the mark of a great gymnast. Synonyms : nimble, brisk, spry Antonyms : clumsy Derivatives : agilely, agility Lesson: 11 Word: 2

unctuous UNGK choo us

characterized by excessive piousness or moralistic fervor The unctuous young man was determined to become a monk. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : unctuosity, unctuousness, unctuously Lesson: 52 Word: 23

congenial kun JEEN yul

characterized by friendly sociability The family decided to settle in the congenial little town. Synonyms : compatible, consonant, genial, pleasant, attractive Antonyms : Derivatives : congeniality, congenially, congenialness Lesson: 20 Word: 6

nomadic no MAD ik

characterized by moving about from place to place as nomads The nomadic people traveled across the continent. Synonyms : transient Antonyms : not mobile; stationary Derivatives : nomad, nomadism, nomadically, nomadize Lesson: 19 Word: 15

emotive eh MOE tive

characterized by or relating to emotion Love is one of the emotive capacities of man. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : emotively, emotiveness, emotivity Lesson: 46 Word: 6

satiric suh TER ik

characterized by satire (a branch of literature ridiculing vice or folly) The political cartoonist was known for his satiric drawings. Synonyms : sarcastic, sardonic, ironic Antonyms : Derivatives : satire, satirical, satirically, satirism, satirist, satirize, satirizer Lesson: 20 Word: 21

grievous GREE vus

characterized by severe suffering or sorrow, serious or grave You made a grievous error when you spoke to your parents in such a horrible fashion. Synonyms : Antonyms : minor Derivatives : grievously, grievousness Lesson: 56 Word: 10

diligent DIL eh junt

characterized by steady, attentive and energetic effort in a pursuit or study The students in the special course were studious and diligent. Synonyms : industrious, assiduous, sedulous Antonyms : Derivatives : diligence, diligency, diligently, diligentness Lesson: 19 Word: 7

tawdry TAH DREE

cheap and gaudy in appearance It was in bad taste to wear such tawdry jewelry to the funeral. Synonyms : garish, meretricious Antonyms : refined Derivatives : tawdriness, tawdrily Lesson: 38 Word: 23

puerile PYOO uh ril, PYOOR

childish, immature One puerile student can be a source of constant disturbance in a classroom. Synonyms : Antonyms : mature Derivatives : puerilily, puerilism, puerility Lesson: 43 Word: 19

progeny PROJ uh nee

children, descendants, offspring He was proud of all his progeny, but he loved the oldest child the most. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : progenitor, progenitorial, progenitorship, progeniture Lesson: 40 Word: 22

distant DIS tunt

chilly in manner Her distant behavior made it difficult to talk to the woman; her chilly manner bordered on being rude. Synonyms : Antonyms : cordial Derivatives : distantly, distantness Lesson: 52 Word: 5

surly SUR lee

churlishly rude or bad-tempered; unfriendly, hostile The discourteous boy had a surly manner of speaking. Synonyms : Antonyms : courteous Derivatives : surlier, surliest, surlily, surliness Lesson: 45 Word: 21

noncombatant non kum BAT unt

civilian, one not engaged in combat World War II was a war in which many noncombatants were killed. Synonyms : Antonyms : warrior Derivatives : noncombatants Lesson: 59 Word: 15

vociferous voe SIF ur us

clamorous; boisterous (suggests a vehement outcry) The rock crowd became vociferous in its anger when it was announced that the show was cancelled. Synonyms : blatant, obstreperous, strident Antonyms : quiet; subdued Derivatives : vociferator, vociferously, vociferousness Lesson: 15 Word: 24

limpid LIM pid

clear, transparent Many liked the author's limpid writing style because it was easy to understand. Synonyms : translucent Antonyms : abstruse; opaque Derivatives : limpidity, limpidness Lesson: 58 Word: 13

vindicated VIN duh kay ted

cleared of accusations or charges I am willing to go to trial and believe that I will be vindicated of all charges. Synonyms : absolved, acquitted, exculpated, exonerated Antonyms : accused Derivatives : vindicate, vindication, vindicative, vindicator, vindicatory, vindictive, vindictively, vindictiveness Lesson: 12 Word: 24

ruse ROOZ

clever trick, subterfuge Ferris thought it a clever ruse to put pillows under his bed covers to make his parents believe he was sleeping. Synonyms : artifice, feint, stratagem, trick, wile Antonyms : Derivatives : ruses Lesson: 62 Word: 19

ingenuity in juh NOO eh tee

cleverness, inventiveness, resourcefulness He showed much ingenuity in his unique way of solving the problem. Synonyms : adroitness, cunning, deftness, dexterity Antonyms : lack of cleverness Derivatives : ingenious, ingeniously, ingeniousness Lesson: 28 Word: 12

moribund MORE eh bund

close to death The moribund man asked to see a priest. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : moribundity Lesson: 34 Word: 15

subjective sub JEK tiv

coming from an individual's mind I scored poorly on the subjective essay exam because my teacher disagreed with my opinion. Synonyms : Antonyms : objective Derivatives : subjectively, subjectiveness, subjectivism, subjectivity, subjectivize, subjectivization Lesson: 41 Word: 20

pithy PITH ee

concise and meaningful Due to great demands on his time, the President needs memos that he must read to be pithy. Synonyms : compendious, laconic, succinct, summary, terse Antonyms : long and drawn out Derivatives : pithier, pithiest, pith Lesson: 32 Word: 19

summary (adj.) SUM uh ree

condensed and concise The judge asked for a summary conclusion since time was short. Synonyms : compendious, laconic, pithy, succinct, terse Antonyms : detailed Derivatives : summarily, summability, summariness, summarize, summation, summational Lesson: 41 Word: 21

pluralism PLOOR uh liz um

condition when many cultures coexist in one society Having many ethnic groups and different religions, the United States is a pluralistic country. Synonyms : Antonyms : segregation Derivatives : pluralistic, pluralist, pluralistically, plurally, pluralization, pluralize Lesson: 34 Word: 16

corroboration kuh rob uh RAY shun

confirmation Fortunately, I had some corroboration for my whereabouts on the night of the crime. Synonyms : authentication, substantiation, validation, verification Antonyms : refutation Derivatives : corroborate, corroborated, corroborating, corroboratory, corroboratively, corroborator Lesson: 8 Word: 6

orthodox OR thuh doks

conforming to established standards, conventional The church is founded upon a set of orthodox views. Synonyms : Antonyms : unconventional Derivatives : orthodoxness, orthodoxical, orthodoxically, orthodoxism, orthodoxly, orthodoxy Lesson: 17 Word: 18

befuddled buh FUD uld

confused He was befuddled by the difficult math problem. Synonyms : Antonyms : clearheaded Derivatives : befuddle, befuddling Lesson: 47 Word: 4

obfuscating ob FUS kay ting

confusing, making unclear His speech was obfuscating because it made people concentrate on irrelevant issues. Synonyms : Antonyms : clear Derivatives : obfuscated, obfuscate, obfuscable, obfuscation, obfuscator, obfuscatory, obfusticated Lesson: 22 Word: 15

vanquished VAN kwishd

conquered, overpowered Hitler's armies vanquished Poland with aid from Russia. Synonyms : Antonyms : submitted Derivatives : vanquishable, vanquisher, vanquishment Lesson: 35 Word: 24

dereliction der uh LIK shun

conscious or willful neglect The private was charged with dereliction of duty when he was found asleep at his guard post. Synonyms : Antonyms : careful attention Derivatives : derelict, derelictly, derelictness Lesson: 62 Word: 5

rudimentary roo duh MEN tuh ree

consisting in first principles, of a primitive kind; relating to basic skills Second grade students have only rudimentary skills in reading. Synonyms : basic, fundamental, undeveloped, elementary Antonyms : fully developed Derivatives : rudiment, rudiments, rudimental, rudimentarily, rudimentariness, rudimentation Lesson: 26 Word: 21

unremitting un reh MIT ing

constant, incessant I need some medicine for my unremitting headache. Synonyms : perennial, perpetual Antonyms : sporadic Derivatives : unremitted, unremittent, unremittedly, unremittingly Lesson: 55 Word: 23

querulous KWER uh lus

constantly complaining, whining Amy irritates me when she constantly speaks in her querulous voice. Synonyms : Antonyms : uncomplaining Derivatives : querulously, querulousness, querulist, querulent Lesson: 28 Word: 19

heretical huh RET eh kul

contrary to church doctrine or accepted beliefs or standards His heretical statements were offensive to many believers. Synonyms : Antonyms : sacred Derivatives : heretic, heretically, hereticalness, hereticate, heretication, hereticator Lesson: 20 Word: 12

gilded GIL did

covered with gold or a golden color; having a background of wealth The gilded and perfumed nobles were inwardly deceptive and rotten to the core. Synonyms : prosperous, luxurious, ornate, meretricious, tawdry Antonyms : Derivatives : gild, gilding, gilder Lesson: 23 Word: 13

censorious sen SORE ee us

critical The artist was hurt by the censorious remarks of the critic. Synonyms : carping, captious Antonyms : complimentary Derivatives : censor, censoriously, censoriousness, censorial, censorship Lesson: 61 Word: 4

invective in VEK tiv

critical or abusive language; violent abuse As his anger mounted, slander and invective poured from his mouth. Synonyms : vituperation, obloquy, scurrility, billingsgate Antonyms : liberal praise Derivatives : invectively, invectives Lesson: 25 Word: 12

garish GAR ish

crudely or tastelessly colorful or showy; excessively ornate or elaborate Her garish clothes made her look out of place in the conservative setting. Synonyms : loud, tawdry, gaudy Antonyms : austere; modest Derivatives : garishly, garishness Lesson: 33 Word: 8

wily WILE ee

cunning, crafty Wily as a fox is an expression that means a person is very crafty at some activity. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : wile, wiled, wiling, wilier, wiliest Lesson: 41 Word: 25

panacea pan uh SEE uh

cure-all, remedy for all ills Love, not money, is the panacea for your problems. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : panacean, panace Lesson: 21 Word: 17

malediction mal eh DIK shun

curse He uttered maledictions at his torturers. Synonyms : Antonyms : blessing Derivatives : maledictive, maledictory Lesson: 51 Word: 13

cutlery KUT luh ree

cutting instruments The salesman gave the woman a set of cutlery just for listening to his sales pitch. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : cutler, cutleries Lesson: 52 Word: 4

dubious DOO be us

doubtful; not clear Since he had not read the document, he was a little dubious about signing his name to it. Synonyms : Antonyms : distinct, doubtless, assured Derivatives : dubiously, dubiousness, dubitable, dubitancy, dubitate, dubitation, dubitative, dubiety Lesson: 23 Word: 9

pejorative peh JOR uh tiv

downgrading, disparaging I do not mean to sound pejorative when I say that he is ruthless on the basketball court. Synonyms : Antonyms : approbatory Derivatives : pejorate, pejoration, pejoratively Lesson: 62 Word: 14

declivity deh KLIV uh tee

downward slope The declivity of the mountain made climbing it quite hazardous. Synonyms : Antonyms : ascending slope Derivatives : declivous, declivitous Lesson: 39 Word: 6

discriminating deh SKRIM uh nay ting

drawing fine distinctions, picky Since he has discriminating tastes, the wine must be selected carefully. Synonyms : Antonyms : uncritical Derivatives : discriminate, discriminability, discriminable, discriminably, discriminant, discriminated Lesson: 58 Word: 8

inebriation in ee bree A shun

drunkenness, intoxication One should not drive when in a state of inebriation. Synonyms : Antonyms : sobriety Derivatives : inebriant, inebriate, inebriated, inebriety, inebrious Lesson: 26 Word: 13

pensive PEN siv

deeply thoughtful The philosopher was often in a pensive mood. Synonyms : meditative, reflective Antonyms : thoughtless Derivatives : pensively, pensiveness Lesson: 46 Word: 16

dilatory DIL uh tor ee

delaying, slow The Senator is employing the filibuster as a dilatory tactic. Synonyms : Antonyms : proceeding Derivatives : dilatoriness, dilatorily Lesson: 18 Word: 8

finesse feh NESS

delicate skill A successful diplomat must have finesse when dealing with representatives of other countries. Synonyms : Antonyms : clumsiness Derivatives : finessed, finessing Lesson: 17 Word: 11

subtle SUT ul

delicate, elusive, not obvious To avoid being obtrusive in the elegant restaurant, he used subtle gestures to call the waiter to his table. Synonyms : Antonyms : obvious; gross; blunt Derivatives : subtilist, subtility, subtilization, subtilize, subtilizer, subtleness, subtlety Lesson: 1 Word: 23

exacting ig ZAK ting

demanding, requiring great care Concerning the form of the outline, the teacher was very exacting. Synonyms : burdensome, onerous, oppressive Antonyms : indulgent Derivatives : exact, exactable, exactingly, exactingness Lesson: 29 Word: 10

disavowal dis uh VOW ul

denial His disavowal of the charges against him made the jury wonder if he was really guilty. Synonyms : Antonyms : acknowledgment Derivatives : disavow Lesson: 44 Word: 7

turpitude TUR puh tood

depravity Our country is seeing a rise in moral turpitude. Synonyms : Antonyms : principles Derivatives : turpitudes Lesson: 50 Word: 23

melancholy MEL un kol ee

depression of spirits After Dad lost his job, he fell into a state of melancholy. Synonyms : Antonyms : happiness Derivatives : melancholia, melancholic, melancholiac, melancholically, melancholily, melancholiness, melancholious Lesson: 2 Word: 19

despondency deh SPON dun see

depression, dejection Because he thought that he had failed the test, he felt great despondency. Synonyms : Antonyms : blithe hopefulness Derivatives : despondent, despondence, despondently, desponding, despondingly Lesson: 26 Word: 7

afoot uh FOOT

developing or in the process of happening The eclipse of the sun caused him to think that something bizarre was afoot. Synonyms : Antonyms : on hold Derivatives : Lesson: 61 Word: 1

piety PIE eh tee

devotion and reverence to God The man was noted for his piety and devotion to the church. Synonyms : Antonyms : irreverence Derivatives : pietism, pietist, pietistic, pietistically Lesson: 11 Word: 19

veracity vuh RAS eh tee

devotion to the truth The lawyer had no confidence in the veracity of the witness. Synonyms : truthfulness, accuracy, correctness Antonyms : Derivatives : veracious, veraciously, veraciousness Lesson: 8 Word: 24

delineation deh len ee A shun

an outline, depiction, portrayal The profits of the company were delineated to the board. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : delineate, delineative, delineator Lesson: 22 Word: 6

cliché klee SHAY

an overworked expression, a trite statement That dog won't hunt used to be a clever way to say that an idea was bad, but due to overuse, it is now a cliché. Synonyms : platitude Antonyms : unusual or original statement Derivatives : Lesson: 45 Word: 4

catacomb KAT uh kome

an underground tunnel or area with holes for graves Poe delighted in setting one of his masterpieces in a catacomb. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : catacombs Lesson: 59 Word: 3

ingrate IN grate

an ungrateful person I was stunned when I didn't even receive a "thank you" from the ingrate. Synonyms : Antonyms : grateful person Derivatives : ingrateful Lesson: 10 Word: 13

quack KWAK

an unqualified or fake doctor, charlatan Fortunately the girl was saved from the scalpel of the quack who called himself a doctor. Synonyms : Antonyms : qualified physician Derivatives : quackery, quackish, quackishly, quackishness, quackism Lesson: 28 Word: 18

papyrus puh PIE rus

ancient paper made from a papyrus plant My assignment is to research ancient cultures that wrote on papyrus. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : papyraceous, papyrological, papyrologist Lesson: 53 Word: 14

primeval pry MEE vul

ancient, relating to the earliest ages The archeologist discovered a primeval urn that dated to 600 B.C. Synonyms : Antonyms : recently developed Derivatives : primevally Lesson: 54 Word: 17

ostensible os TEN suh bul

apparent or avowed The ostensible purpose of going to Las Vegas was the convention; however, the real purpose was to gamble. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : ostensibly, ostensive, ostensively, ostentation, ostentatious Lesson: 46 Word: 15

savory SAY vuh ree

appetizing My mother is known for her savory meals. Synonyms : palatable, toothsome Antonyms : unappetizing Derivatives : savor, savored, savorer, savorily, savoriness, savoringly, savorous, savorsome Lesson: 15 Word: 20

timorous TIM ur us

apprehensive, worried, or fearful If one has to walk through a mine field, he should do so with timorous steps. Synonyms : timid Antonyms : Derivatives : timorously, timorousness Lesson: 42 Word: 23

decorum deh KOR um

appropriate conduct, correct and proper behavior The students' decorum at the dance was excellent. Synonyms : Antonyms : impropriety Derivatives : decorous, decorously, decorousness Lesson: 24 Word: 6

discrepant deh SKREP unt

disagreeing, inconsistent The auditor became suspicious when he found the discrepant accounts. Synonyms : Antonyms : same; consistent Derivatives : discrepancy, discrepantly Lesson: 13 Word: 8

disapprobation dis ap ruh BAY shun

disapproval, condemnation The unruly child faced the disapprobation of his parents when they learned of his behavior. Synonyms : Antonyms : sanction Derivatives : disapprobative, disapprobatory Lesson: 43 Word: 8

vexation vek SAY shun

discomfort or distress The young children were a source of vexation to their nervous, neurotic mother. Synonyms : Antonyms : pleasantry Derivatives : vex, vexatious, vexedly, vexedness, vexingly Lesson: 11 Word: 25

pathogenic path uh JEN ik

disease-producing That strain of bacteria is a pathogenic strain that causes tuberculosis. Synonyms : Antonyms : harmless; healthy Derivatives : pathogenicity, pathogeny, pathogenetic Lesson: 58 Word: 15

opprobrium uh PRO bree um

disgrace and reproach as a result of bad conduct A person dealing in drugs frequently faces social opprobrium. Synonyms : Antonyms : praise Derivatives : opprobrious, opprobriate, opprobriously, opprobriousness, opprobry Lesson: 43 Word: 18

disrepute dis reh PYOOT

disgrace, loss of reputation If he does not win the perjury case, he will be held in disrepute. Synonyms : ignominy, infamy Antonyms : esteem; dignity Derivatives : disreputability, disreputable, disreputably Lesson: 51 Word: 8

ignominy IG nuh min ee

disgraceful or dishonorable conduct Treason is an ignominy. Synonyms : disgrace, disrepute, infamy Antonyms : honor Derivatives : ignominious, ignominiously, ignominiousness Lesson: 45 Word: 11

repugnant reh PUG nunt

disgusting, offensive It is repugnant to spit on the sidewalk. Synonyms : abhorrent, invidious, obnoxious, repellent Antonyms : appealing Derivatives : repugnancy, repugnantly, repugnatorial, repugnance Lesson: 20 Word: 20

unkempt un KEMPT

disheveled in appearance When the child came to school unkempt and dirty, I became concerned. Synonyms : Antonyms : neat Derivatives : unkemptly, unkemptness Lesson: 25 Word: 21

dissolution dis uh LOO shun

disintegration, decomposition and dispersion The dissolution of the partnership caused him much grief. Synonyms : Antonyms : integration Derivatives : dissolute, dissolutely, dissoluteness, dissolutive, dissoluble Lesson: 37 Word: 6

expedient ik SPEE dee unt

appropriate for a purpose but not necessarily moral, right, or just. In trying to increase political support, the candidate found it expedient to change his stand on taxation. Synonyms : Antonyms : disadvantageous Derivatives : expediate, expedience, expediency, expediential, expedientist, expediently Lesson: 19 Word: 8

fervid FUR vid

ardent, burning, impassioned The evangelist is a fervid crusader against sin. Synonyms : fervent, passionate, perfervid Antonyms : indifferent Derivatives : fervidity, fervidly, fervidness Lesson: 12 Word: 10

fervent FUR vent

ardent, showing great emotion, impassioned I have a fervent love for that man. Synonyms : fervid, passionate, perfervid Antonyms : indifferent Derivatives : fervency, fervently, ferventness, fervid, fervidly, fervidity, fervidness Lesson: 28 Word: 11

prurient PROOR ee unt

arousing an unwholesome desire or interest (usually related to sex) Pornography arouses prurient interests. Synonyms : Antonyms : pure Derivatives : prurience, pruriency, pruriently Lesson: 41 Word: 16

haughty HAW tee

arrogant, excessively proud and vain Being quarterback of the football team does not give him the right to be haughty. Synonyms : disdainful, high-handed, insolent, lordly, supercilious Antonyms : humble Derivatives : haughtily, haughtiness Lesson: 5 Word: 14

synthetic sin THET ik

artificial Many synthetic substances are better than the natural substances that they replaced. Synonyms : Antonyms : authentic Derivatives : synthethical, synthetically Lesson: 49 Word: 23

stilted STIL ted

artificially formal, stiff, pompous The demeanor of English royalty seems stilted to many Americans. Synonyms : Antonyms : genuine Derivatives : stiltedly, stiltedness Lesson: 53 Word: 20

frugal FROO gul

avoiding spending money unnecessarily He is so frugal because he is trying to save money for college. Synonyms : thrifty, economical Antonyms : wasteful Derivatives : frugality, frugalness, frugally Lesson: 42 Word: 4

kudos KOO doze

awards or honors She deserves kudos for her work in building the museum. Synonyms : Antonyms : demerits Derivatives : kudize, kudized, kudizing Lesson: 39 Word: 16

cognizant KOG nuh zunt

aware, having knowledge I am cognizant of the importance of this situation. Synonyms : Antonyms : ignorant Derivatives : cognition, cognizable, cognizably, cognizance, cognize, cognized, cognizing Lesson: 34 Word: 5

ungainly un GANE lee

awkward Boys who grow very fast are sometimes ungainly. Synonyms : Antonyms : agile Derivatives : ungainliness Lesson: 20 Word: 25

pliable PLY uh bul

easily manipulated or able to be bent freely without breaking The diplomat's instructions from his country left him no room to be pliable. He could make no compromises. Synonyms : pliant, ductile, malleable Antonyms : obstinate Derivatives : pliability, pliableness, pliably, pliant, pliancy, pliantness, pliantly Lesson: 16 Word: 18

lucid LOO sid

easily understood, mentally sound His lucid remarks helped everyone understand the new tax code. Synonyms : perspicuous Antonyms : obscure Derivatives : lucidity, lucidly, lucidness Lesson: 9 Word: 14

facile FAS il

easy, achieved with little difficulty I cannot offer a facile solution to such a difficult problem. Synonyms : Antonyms : difficult; complicated Derivatives : facilely, facileness Lesson: 65 Word: 9

resonant REZ uh nunt

echoing, continuing to sound The resonant sounds of the cello make it a pleasing instrument. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : resonance, resonate, resonantly, resonator Lesson: 33 Word: 18

vacuity va KYOO eh tee

emptiness as in lack of intelligence The vacuities of their faces showed that they knew nothing about the subject. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vacuities Lesson: 63 Word: 23

verve VERV

energy, enthusiasm The winning cheerleader squad received special commendations for expressing great verve. Synonyms : Antonyms : sluggishness Derivatives : verves Lesson: 47 Word: 24

fanaticism fuh NAT eh siz um

enthusiasm or zeal that is excessively irrational The Nazis engendered fanaticism among their followers. Synonyms : Antonyms : apathy; lack of zeal Derivatives : fanatical, fanatic, fanatically, fanaticalness Lesson: 40 Word: 7

zeal ZEEL

enthusiasm, fervor To the delight of his students, he brought great zeal to the teaching profession. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of enthusiasm Derivatives : zeals, zealless, zealot, zealotic, zealotism, zealotry Lesson: 8 Word: 25

prevarication preh var uh KAY shun

evasiveness, lie Prevarication is a dangerous activity when under oath on the witness stand. Synonyms : equivocation Antonyms : honesty Derivatives : prevaricate, prevaricative, prevaricator, prevaricatory Lesson: 26 Word: 17

pompous POM pus

exaggerated show of dignity or self-importance, bombastic It is very pompous of him to believe that his ideas should always receive the first consideration. Synonyms : ostentatious, pretentious Antonyms : humble; meek Derivatives : pomp, pomposity, pompously, pompousness Lesson: 4 Word: 19

sublime suh BLIME

exalted, noble, uplifting The romantic dinner, which included delicious food, soft music, and a beautiful setting, was simply sublime. Synonyms : resplendent, superb Antonyms : Derivatives : sublimely, sublimeness, sublimer Lesson: 8 Word: 22

inordinate in OR duh nit

exceeding reasonable limits, excessive It is a sign of trouble when a student has an inordinate number of absences. Synonyms : exorbitant, extravagant, extreme, immoderate Antonyms : small Derivatives : inordinately, inordinateness, inordination Lesson: 27 Word: 12

precocious preh KOE shus

exceptionally early in development or occurrence A child prodigy is a young person who is very precocious. Synonyms : Antonyms : backward Derivatives : precociousness, precosity, precociously Lesson: 4 Word: 20

fulsome FUL sum

excess to the point of disgust, extreme lavishness The woman's fulsome praise of her grandchildren was beginning to irritate the guests. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : fulsomely, fulsomeness Lesson: 50 Word: 9

audacity aw DAS uh tee

excessive boldness, rashness, daring I was surprised that he had the audacity to approach the Queen. Synonyms : cheek, chutzpah, effrontery, gall, hardihood, temerity Antonyms : meekness Derivatives : audacious, audaciousness, audaciously Lesson: 3 Word: 3

levity LEV eh tee

excessive frivolity, flippancy It was inappropriate for him to insert some levity into the funeral service. Synonyms : Antonyms : seriousness Derivatives : levitate, levitation, levitated, levitational, levitative, levitating Lesson: 6 Word: 18

ornate or NATE

excessively decorated The ornate Christmas tree provided us with many hours of pleasure. Synonyms : Antonyms : austere, bare Derivatives : ornately, ornateness, ornature Lesson: 11 Word: 17

narcissistic nar seh SIS tik

excessively loving oneself Stuck on herself is a colloquial term meaning narcissistic. The narcissistic boy cared for no one but himself. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : narcissism, narcism, narcissist, narcissistically Lesson: 52 Word: 14

lugubrious loo GOO bree us

excessively mournful The woman shed lugubrious tears at the funeral of her husband and daughter. Synonyms : Antonyms : rejoicing Derivatives : lugubriosity, lugubriously, lugubriousness Lesson: 37 Word: 14

ecstasy EK stuh see

extreme happiness The music was so beautiful that it put the crowd into a state of ecstasy. Synonyms : rapture, transport Antonyms : wretchedness Derivatives : ecstatic, ecstatical, ecstatically Lesson: 13 Word: 9

pallor PAL ur

extreme paleness usually relating to the face The strange disease left the man with a sickly pallor. Synonyms : Antonyms : ruddy color Derivatives : pallors Lesson: 38 Word: 19

penury PEN yuh ree

extreme poverty There is much penury in central Africa. Synonyms : destitution, impecuniousness, indigence, want Antonyms : opulence Derivatives : penurious, penuriously, penuriousness Lesson: 16 Word: 16

adulation ad u LAY shun

extreme praise or admiration Due to the great adulation of the crowds, the politician thought that he might win the election. Synonyms : Antonyms : defamation; slander Derivatives : adulate, adulator, adulatory, adulated, adulating Lesson: 10 Word: 2

contrite kun TRITE

extremely apologetic, remorseful, repentant Her contrite tears were not enough to convince her father not to spank her for her disobedience. Synonyms : penitent Antonyms : unrepentant Derivatives : contritely, contriteness, contrition Lesson: 3 Word: 4

execrable EK suh kruh bul

extremely bad, deserving of hate The cheerleader told a joke about the drill team that was so execrable that he was suspended for three days. Synonyms : Antonyms : admirable Derivatives : execrableness, execrably, execrate, execration, execrative, execratively, execrator Lesson: 58 Word: 10

glacial GLAY shul

extremely cold or frigid The men were nearly frozen by the glacial wind blowing so relentlessly on them. Synonyms : Antonyms : hot Derivatives : glacially, glaciate, glaciation Lesson: 52 Word: 8

imperious im PEER ee us

extremely overbearing The imperious behavior of the dictator led to his overthrow. Synonyms : domineering, imperative, masterful, preemptory Antonyms : meek Derivatives : imperiously, imperiousness Lesson: 17 Word: 13

virulent VIR yuh lunt

extremely poisonous; hateful The doctor prescribed a lot of medication to arrest the virulent infection. Synonyms : Antonyms : harmless Derivatives : virulence, virulently Lesson: 4 Word: 24

obdurate OB doo rit

extremely stubborn, unwilling to accept advice She was obdurate in her refusal to listen to our concerns about her cocaine problem. Synonyms : inflexible, inexorable, adamant Antonyms : tractable Derivatives : obdurately, obdurateness, obduration, obdure, obduracy Lesson: 15 Word: 16

nefarious neh FARE ee us

extremely wicked, evil, vicious Hitler's treatment of Jewish people was a sign that he was a very nefarious person. Synonyms : degenerate, iniquitous, villainous Antonyms : righteous Derivatives : nefariously, nefariousness Lesson: 10 Word: 16

trepidation trep eh DAY shun

fear, trembling, agitation Since I did not have time to study, I have a lot of trepidation about this examination. Synonyms : Antonyms : fearlessness Derivatives : trepidate, trepidant, trepid, trepidly, trepidity Lesson: 3 Word: 24

intrepid in TREP id

fearless The intrepid fireman rushed into the burning house and saved the baby. Synonyms : Antonyms : afraid Derivatives : intrepidity, intrepidly, intrepidness Lesson: 34 Word: 13

plumage PLOO mij

feathers of a bird The plumage of the peacock is beautiful. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : plumages, plumaged, plumassier, plumate, plume Lesson: 58 Word: 16

surfeited SUR feh ted

fed or supplied to excess I was surfeited after having eaten so much food at the banquet. Synonyms : cloyed, glutted, gorged, palled, sated, satiated Antonyms : starved Derivatives : surfeit, surfeiter Lesson: 14 Word: 24

lassitude LAS eh tood

feeling of weariness; fatigue The hot weather in some parts of Mexico probably created the lassitude that led to the siesta. Synonyms : languor, lethargy, stupor, torpor Antonyms : restlessness Derivatives : lassitudes Lesson: 31 Word: 14

replete reh PLETE

filled to capacity, abundantly supplied The bar was replete with every possible kind of alcohol. Synonyms : plenary Antonyms : devoid Derivatives : repleteness, repletion, repletive Lesson: 13 Word: 22

teeming TEEM ing

filled to overflowing; present in a large amount The damp field is teeming with mosquitoes. Synonyms : Antonyms : deserted Derivatives : teem, teemful, teemfulness, teemingly, teemless Lesson: 55 Word: 22

squalid SKWOL id

filthy in appearance, sordid There are squalid and depressed areas in most of the world's major cities. Synonyms : Antonyms : clean Derivatives : squalidity, squalidly, squalidness Lesson: 11 Word: 24

sordid SOR did

filthy, foul The sordid details of the brutal ax murder sickened the jurors. Synonyms : abject, ignoble, mean Antonyms : nice; harmless Derivatives : sordidness, sordidly Lesson: 14 Word: 23

carping KAR ping

finding fault My mother is always carping at me. Synonyms : captious, censorious, critical Antonyms : praising Derivatives : carp, carper, carpingly, carped Lesson: 18 Word: 5

inveterate in VET ur it

firmly established, habitual, deep-rooted Because he had been an inveterate workaholic, he had trouble adjusting his lifestyle when he retired. Synonyms : Antonyms : readily changeable Derivatives : inveterately, inveterateness Lesson: 54 Word: 10

foremost FORE most

first in rank, time, place, or position Learning these vocabulary words is foremost in importance. Synonyms : Antonyms : lowest in rank Derivatives : foremostly Lesson: 54 Word: 6

arable AIR uh bul

fit for plowing, tillable If a farmer does not use good conservation measures, the land will not stay arable. Synonyms : Antonyms : untillable Derivatives : arability Lesson: 6 Word: 2

delimits deh LIM it

fixes or defines the limit or boundary of something The fence he built delimits his property. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : delimitate, delimiter, delimitation, delimitative, delimited, delimiting Lesson: 58 Word: 7

trowel TROU ul

flat bladed hand tool used to work with mortar or to dig holes for plants A bricklayer must have great expertise in using a trowel. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : troweled, troweling, trowels Lesson: 57 Word: 23

blandishment BLAN dish munt

flattery Due to the salesman's blandishments, the customer bought the jacket. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : blandish, blandisher, blandished Lesson: 20 Word: 3

vehement VEE uh munt

forcefully expressing emotion or conviction He vehemently denied that he had said those harsh words. Synonyms : Antonyms : meek Derivatives : vehemence, vehemency, vehemently Lesson: 25 Word: 24

exotic ig ZOT ik

foreign, unfamiliar The circus features exotic animals from Africa. Synonyms : Antonyms : native Derivatives : exotical, exoticalness, exotically, exotica, exoticism, exoticist Lesson: 3 Word: 12

divination div uh NAY shun

foretelling the future by means of magic The prophet was known for his accuracy in divination. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : divinator, divinatory, divine, divination, divined Lesson: 54 Word: 4

peevish PEE vish

fretful, obstinate With a peevish gesture, Jane slammed the book shut. Synonyms : Antonyms : tranquil; peaceful Derivatives : peevishly, peevishness, peeve, peeved Lesson: 61 Word: 16

affable AF uh bul

friendly, courteous, amiable He had a very affable nature, always saying "Hello" to everyone. Synonyms : cordial, genial, gracious, sociable Antonyms : surly; aloof; unfriendly Derivatives : affability, affableness, affably Lesson: 3 Word: 2

amiable A mee uh bul

friendly, sociable, and congenial; civil and urbane She was blessed with having such an amiable friend who was almost always good-natured and obliging. Synonyms : good-natured, obliging, complaisant Antonyms : Derivatives : amiableness, amiably, amicable, amicability, amiability Lesson: 9 Word: 2

amity AM uh tee

friendship That small town is well-known for its amity; the town has very friendly people. Synonyms : Antonyms : hostility Derivatives : amities Lesson: 17 Word: 3

vibrant VIE brunt

full of life She was a vibrant young woman before she went into a coma. Synonyms : Antonyms : lifeless Derivatives : vibrance, vibrancy, vibrantly Lesson: 27 Word: 25

vivacious vi VAY shus

full of life, very animated Game shows are looking for vivacious contestants who are fun to watch and who will liven up the show. Synonyms : Antonyms : sluggish Derivatives : vivaciously, vivaciousness, vivacity Lesson: 21 Word: 25

spiteful SPITE ful

full of spite or malice; malicious; malevolent She is a spiteful child, always seeking revenge for any injury. Synonyms : vengeful, cruel, rancorous Antonyms : benevolent; kind Derivatives : spitefully, spitefulness Lesson: 19 Word: 22

dirge DURJ

funeral hymn, lament The music was so morose and solemn that it sounded like a dirge. Synonyms : Antonyms : dance Derivatives : dirgeful, dirges Lesson: 32 Word: 9

posterity pah STER uh tee

future generations, all descendants of a person They wanted to write a declaration of independence that would last for all posterity. Synonyms : Antonyms : forebears Derivatives : posterities Lesson: 64 Word: 16

hiatus high ATE us

gap, pause, interruption in time Our vacation will be a short hiatus from our work. Synonyms : Antonyms : continuation Derivatives : hiatuses Lesson: 31 Word: 11

prevalent PREV uh lunt

generally or widely accepted, current, or practiced The state of lethargy is a prevalent problem in education. Synonyms : prevailing, victorious, dominant Antonyms : limited, uncommon Derivatives : prevalence, prevalently Lesson: 23 Word: 20

largess lar JES, LAR jis

generous giving The wealthy man was known by many charities for his largess. Synonyms : Antonyms : miserliness Derivatives : largesse Lesson: 50 Word: 13

obtuse ub TUSE

dull of mind, insensitive, stupid His obtuse response to the question showed that he did not understand the nature of the discussion. Synonyms : Antonyms : intelligent Derivatives : obtusely, obtuseness, obtusion, obtusity Lesson: 24 Word: 16

bovine BO vine

dull or sluggish like an ox or cow, relating to an ox or cow Get out of bed and quit being so bovine. Synonyms : indolent, slothful Antonyms : animated; energetic Derivatives : bovinely, bovinity Lesson: 49 Word: 2

vapid VAP id

dull, inane, insipid The vapid discussion between the two girls was boring and uninteresting. Synonyms : banal, flat, jejune Antonyms : intelligent; interesting Derivatives : vapidity, vapidly, vapidness Lesson: 24 Word: 25

woe WOE

great sorrow, grief, or misfortune The woe she suffered at his death continued through months of depression. Synonyms : Antonyms : happiness Derivatives : woes, woebegone, woeful, woebegoneness, woefully, woefulness Lesson: 36 Word: 25

vim VIM

great vitality and energy Although he is ninety years old, he still has much vim and vigor. Synonyms : Antonyms : lethargy Derivatives : vims Lesson: 52 Word: 24

cupidity kyoo PID uh tee

greed The cupidity of a miser cannot be satisfied. Synonyms : avarice Antonyms : benevolence Derivatives : cupidities Lesson: 50 Word: 4

avarice AV uh ris

greed for wealth Avarice and gluttony are two vices that can destroy lives. Synonyms : cupidity Antonyms : generosity Derivatives : avaricious, avariciously, avariciousness Lesson: 14 Word: 4

gluttonous GLUT uh nus

greedy for food and drink I am so gluttonous that I would have great difficulty dieting. Synonyms : rapacious, ravenous, voracious Antonyms : temperate Derivatives : glutton, gluttonize, gluttonously, gluttonousness Lesson: 4 Word: 15

iniquity eh NIK weh tee

gross injustice; wickedness; wicked act The iniquity of the criminal caused disgust even among his friends. Synonyms : perverseness, evil, baseness, wrong Antonyms : Derivatives : iniquitous, iniquitousness, iniquitously Lesson: 43 Word: 14

felicitous feh LIS eh tus

happy or delightful Her marriage was a felicitous occasion. Synonyms : Antonyms : sad; gloomy; morose Derivatives : felicitate, felicific, felicitation, felicitously, felicitousness, felicity Lesson: 15 Word: 11

callous KAL us

hardened; insensitive, indifferent, unsympathetic He became callous after many years in the war. Synonyms : hard, inured, insensible, obtuse Antonyms : soft, sensitive Derivatives : callously, callousness Lesson: 17 Word: 5

noxious NOK shus

harmful, unwholesome Is that noxious odor coming from that noisome outhouse? Synonyms : baneful, deleterious, detrimental, pernicious Antonyms : harmless; wholesome Derivatives : noxiously, noxiousness Lesson: 38 Word: 16

deleterious del eh TEER ee us

harmful; dangerous; injurious Some chemicals have deleterious effects on those who must handle them. Synonyms : baneful, detrimental, noxious, pernicious Antonyms : harmless, benign Derivatives : deletery, deleteriously, deleteriousness Lesson: 21 Word: 8

innocuous eh NOK yoo us

harmless, producing no injury Since the drink is innocuous, it is okay for us to have some. Synonyms : Antonyms : dangerous; injurious Derivatives : innocuously, innocuousness Lesson: 1 Word: 12

animosity an uh MAH suh tee

harsh feelings, enmity, resentment, hatred I have a lot of animosity for him, since he attempted to steal my girlfriend. Synonyms : animus, antagonism, antipathy, enmity, hostility, rancor Antonyms : love Derivatives : animus Lesson: 14 Word: 2

cacophonous kuh KAH fuh nus

harsh sounding, having dissonance An orchestra is cacophonous when it is tuning up. Synonyms : Antonyms : euphonious; pleasant sounding Derivatives : cacophony Lesson: 16 Word: 6

abrasive uh BRAY siv

harsh, causing irritation, rough His mother was disturbed by his rude and abrasive behavior. Synonyms : Antonyms : kind; soothing Derivatives : abrasion Lesson: 44 Word: 1

stark STARK

harsh, grim, or desolate; extremely simple or severe The stark landscape gave an ominous feeling. Synonyms : dreary Antonyms : luxuriant Derivatives : starkly, starkness Lesson: 51 Word: 21

doleful DOL ful

having great sorrow By her doleful expression, I knew that she did not make the cheerleader squad. Synonyms : melancholy, plaintive, lugubrious, mournful Antonyms : cheerful Derivatives : dolefully, dolefulness Lesson: 33 Word: 4

hidebound HIDE bound

having very dry skin that adheres tightly to the underlying flesh The man's hidebound attitude kept him from listening objectively to both sides of her story. Synonyms : inflexible Antonyms : flexible; moist, flexible skin Derivatives : hideboundness Lesson: 64 Word: 8

salubrious suh LOO bree us

healthful, favorable to one's well-being Arizona's dry climate is salubrious for many people with allergies. Synonyms : salutary, wholesome Antonyms : poisonous; harmful Derivatives : salubriously, salubriousness, salubrity Lesson: 29 Word: 21

ethereal eh THER ee ul

heavenly, unusually delicate, light, lacking material substance, intangible The ethereal sounds of the music soothed and calmed the patient. Synonyms : Antonyms : earthly; mundane Derivatives : etherealness, ethereality, etherealization, etherealize Lesson: 7 Word: 10

portly PORT lee

heavy or rotund in a stately manner, stout Winston Churchill was the portly prime minister of England during World War II. Synonyms : Antonyms : lean; slender; angular Derivatives : portliness Lesson: 34 Word: 17

shrill SHRIL

high-pitched or piercing (sound) The shrill sounds of the sirens pierced the night. Synonyms : Antonyms : muted Derivatives : shriller, shrillest, shrilling, shrillness, shrilly Lesson: 59 Word: 22

metaphysical met uh FIZ eh kul

highly abstract or abstruse; relating to what is conceived as transcendent The spiritualist was engrossed in the metaphysical realm and cared nothing for earthly realities. Synonyms : preternatural Antonyms : Derivatives : metaphysic, metaphysically Lesson: 59 Word: 14

tepid TEP id

moderately warm; lacking in passion, force, or animation The girl enjoyed a tepid bath. She had only a tepid interest in her grades. Synonyms : lukewarm; dull, lifeless, halfhearted Antonyms : passionate Derivatives : tepidly, tepidness, tepidarium, tepidity Lesson: 25 Word: 20

temperance TEM pur uns

moderation or self-restraint in action or statement The woman exercised temperance in filling her plate with small portions of food. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : temperate, temperately, temperateness Lesson: 28 Word: 22

debauchery deh BAH chuh ree

moral corruption Certainly a minister would say that group sex is an example of debauchery. Synonyms : abasement, corruption, debasement, depravity, perversion, Antonyms : temperance Derivatives : debauch, debaucher, debauchment, debauchee Lesson: 39 Word: 5

depravity deh PRAV eh tee

moral corruption, a wicked or perverse act The depravity of his behavior shocked everyone. Synonyms : abasement, corruption, debasement, debauchery, Antonyms : noble behavior Derivatives : deprave, depraver, depravement, depraved Lesson: 3 Word: 6

chaste CHASTE

morally pure The king insisted that the woman who would become his wife be chaste. Synonyms : pure, modest, decent Antonyms : immoral, tainted Derivatives : chastely, chasteness, chastity Lesson: 51 Word: 5

optimum OP tuh mum

most favorable, best or greatest degree attainable The operation must be performed under optimum conditions. Synonyms : Antonyms : least favorable Derivatives : optima, optimums, optimize, optimization, optimity Lesson: 44 Word: 14

stasis STAY sis

motionlessness, stagnation At a particular point of stasis, one cannot advance in growth or understanding. Synonyms : Antonyms : flux Derivatives : stases Lesson: 32 Word: 24

malicious muh LISH us

motivated by hate or deliberate intent to harm The malicious boy burned down the school. Synonyms : Antonyms : kind Derivatives : maliciousness, malice, maliciously, maliceful Lesson: 44 Word: 12

plaintive PLANE tiv

mournful and expressing sorrow The dog moaned in a plaintive manner when her puppies were taken. Synonyms : Antonyms : joyful Derivatives : plaintively, plaintiveness Lesson: 56 Word: 16

elegiac el uh JEE uk

mournful, expressing sorrow His elegiac poem about the war deaths moved everyone. Synonyms : Antonyms : rejoicing Derivatives : elegiacal, elegy Lesson: 30 Word: 8

propinquity pro PING kweh tee

nearness; kinship The farm's propinquity to the chemical plant was blamed for the rise in cancer among the family members. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : propinquant, propinquous Lesson: 59 Word: 19

neuter NOO tur, NYOO tur

neither masculine nor feminine in gender, neutral The worker bee is neuter. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : neuters, neuterly, neuterness, neutered, neutering Lesson: 56 Word: 14

defunct deh FUNGKT

no longer existing, dead That company went bankrupt and is now defunct. Synonyms : Antonyms : existing Derivatives : defunction, defunctive Lesson: 56 Word: 5

incongruity in kon GROO eh tee

nonconformity, disagreement, incompatibility The incongruity between the two stories led me to doubt the accuracy of either report. Synonyms : Antonyms : agreement Derivatives : incongruent, incongruently, incongruence, incongruous, incongrously, incongruousness Lesson: 7 Word: 14

secular SEK yuh lur

nonreligious, worldly Jingle Bells is a secular Christmas song. Synonyms : Antonyms : religious Derivatives : secularism, secularist, secularity, secularization, secularize, secularly Lesson: 12 Word: 20

stipend STY pend

normal salary The normal stipend for a good quarterback is a half million dollars a year. Synonyms : Antonyms : bonus Derivatives : stipendiary, stipendium, stipendless Lesson: 55 Word: 21

untenable un TEN uh bul

not able to be defended Taking a bribe is an untenable act for a politician. Synonyms : Antonyms : defensible Derivatives : untenability, untenableness Lesson: 17 Word: 25

inextricable in EKS truh kuh bul

not able to be disentangled The kite string is in such an inextricable mess that you might as well throw it all away. Synonyms : Antonyms : separable Derivatives : inextricability, inextricableness, inextricably Lesson: 63 Word: 11

inimitable eh NIM eh tuh bul

not able to be imitated He has his own inimitable way of doing things. Synonyms : Antonyms : imitable Derivatives : inimitability, inimitableness, inimitably Lesson: 13 Word: 15

impermeable im PUR mee uh bul

not able to be penetrated, unable to be passed through Boats are coated with an impermeable substance that keeps water and moisture out. Synonyms : Antonyms : penetrable Derivatives : impermeability, impermeabilization, impermeabilize, impermeableness, impermeably Lesson: 29 Word: 14

opaque oh PAKE

not allowing the passage of light, not transparent; hard to understand I am going to place something opaque in the window so that no one will be able to see into this room. Synonyms : dark Antonyms : transparent Derivatives : opaquely, opaqueness, opaquer Lesson: 2 Word: 20

implausible im PLAU zuh bul

not believable His explanation of the accident is so implausible that no jury will believe him. Synonyms : Antonyms : believable Derivatives : implausibility, implausibileness, implausibly Lesson: 7 Word: 13

unfathomable un FATH um uh bul

not capable of being understood The solution to the mystery was unfathomable in the beginning. Synonyms : Antonyms : understandable Derivatives : unfathomableness, unfathomably, unfathomed Lesson: 41 Word: 23

benign buh NINE

not causing harm, of gentle disposition, beneficial The minister was loved because of his benign attitude toward all types of people. Synonyms : Antonyms : malignant, harmful Derivatives : benignly, benignant, benignancy, benignantly, benignity Lesson: 2 Word: 6

unsung un SUNG

not celebrated in verse or song or otherwise praised Wars are full of unsung heroes who give their lives for their country. Synonyms : Antonyms : celebrated Derivatives : Lesson: 56 Word: 22

phlegmatic fleg MAT ik

not easily excited to action or emotion; apathetic; sluggish Not taking part in the boisterous activities was typical of his phlegmatic behavior. Synonyms : stoical, cool, cold, uninterested, dull, torpid; unruffled, Antonyms : volatile; not sluggish Derivatives : phlegmatical, phlegmatically, phlegmaticalness, phlegmaticness Lesson: 49 Word: 16

unflappable un FLAP uh bul

not easily upset A candidate needs to be unflappable when he meets the press. Synonyms : Antonyms : easily upset Derivatives : Lesson: 53 Word: 23

extraneous ik STRAY nee us

not essential or vital The extraneous assignments left the student with little time for himself. Synonyms : alien, extrinsic, foreign Antonyms : essential Derivatives : extraneously, extraneousness Lesson: 8 Word: 11

stagnant STAG nunt

not flowing, foul from not moving The stagnant pond had a foul odor. Synonyms : Antonyms : flowing Derivatives : stagnate, stagnation, stagnantly, stagnancy, stagnance Lesson: 49 Word: 22

tentative TEN tuh tiv

not fully worked out, provisional, uncertain We have a tentative arms-control agreement, but we hope to have a signed agreement by the end of the year. Synonyms : Antonyms : permanent Derivatives : tentatively, tentativeness Lesson: 18 Word: 24

extrinsic ik STRIN sik

not inherent, external Monetary reward and physical punishment are both forms of extrinsic motivation. Synonyms : alien, extraneous, foreign Antonyms : essential Derivatives : extrinsical, extrinsically Lesson: 43 Word: 10

unwitting un WIT ing

not intentional, without knowledge Because her day-to-day routine was so precise and obvious, she was an unwitting tool of the thief. Synonyms : Antonyms : conscious Derivatives : unwittingly, unwittingness Lesson: 58 Word: 24

indubitable in DOO beh tuh bul

not open to question or doubt At the base of the experiment was a core of indubitable knowledge. Synonyms : unquestionable, certain Antonyms : questionable; doubtful Derivatives : indubitability, indubitableness, indubitably Lesson: 25 Word: 11

improvidence im PROV eh dunz

not providing for the future, not thrifty The improvidence of immediately spending one's paycheck could be costly in an emergency. Synonyms : Antonyms : foresight Derivatives : improvident, improvidently, improvidentially Lesson: 52 Word: 9

unobtrusive un ob TRUE siv

not readily noticeable, inconspicuous He is very unobtrusive sitting over there in the corner. Synonyms : Antonyms : noticeable; obvious Derivatives : unobtrusiveness, unobtrusively Lesson: 40 Word: 25

trifling TRY fling

not significant, frivolous Some think that watching MTV is a trifling experience. Synonyms : Antonyms : important; significant Derivatives : trifle, trifled, trifling, trifles Lesson: 14 Word: 25

inconsequential in kon suh KWEN shul

not significant, unimportant Since his team was ahead, the fact that the quaterback's last pass was intercepted was inconsequential. Synonyms : Antonyms : pivotal; important Derivatives : inconsequential, inconsequentially, inconsequentiality Lesson: 61 Word: 11

skewed SKYOOD

not straight, crooked, slanting The telescope did not work because of the skewed alignment of the mirrors. Synonyms : asymmetrical Antonyms : straight Derivatives : skew, skewness Lesson: 37 Word: 21

unimpeachable un im PEE chuh bul

not to be called into question, exempt from liability The man had an unimpeachable reputation and was considered by all to be extremely trustworthy. Synonyms : irreproachable, blameless Antonyms : liable; full of blame Derivatives : unimpeachableness, unimpeachably, unimpeached Lesson: 31 Word: 24

insufferable in SUF ur uh bul

not to be endured; intolerable; unbearable The man's insufferable temper caused his wife to leave him. Synonyms : Antonyms : tolerable; bearable Derivatives : insufferableness, insufferably Lesson: 50 Word: 12

latent LATE unt

not visible, dormant Sometimes a teacher can cause latent talents to emerge. Synonyms : abeyant, quiescent Antonyms : obvious Derivatives : latency Lesson: 32 Word: 15

illustrious eh LUS tree us

notably outstanding, famous I was impressed by the illustrious personage at the ball. Synonyms : celebrated, distinguished, eminent, noted, renowned Antonyms : infamous Derivatives : illustriously, illustriousness Lesson: 18 Word: 14

germane jer MANE

important to the issue at hand, pertinent The judge ruled that the testimony was germane to the trial and allowed it to be entered into the record. Synonyms : applicable, apposite, apropos, material Antonyms : unimportant Derivatives : germanely, germaneness Lesson: 48 Word: 10

grandiose GRAN dee ose

impressive, imposing They have grandiose plans to build a new football stadium Synonyms : grand, magnificent, majestic, stately Antonyms : small and unimpressive Derivatives : grandiosely, grandioseness, grandiosity Lesson: 24 Word: 11

gamely GAME lee

in a positive and spirited approach to a task, with unyielding spirit He approached the task with a gamely attitude, exhibiting his positive and unyielding spirit. Synonyms : Antonyms : without courage Derivatives : gameness Lesson: 45 Word: 9

quiescent kwee ES unt

inactive, dormant The eruption was a surprise because the volcano had been quiescent for many years. Synonyms : abeyance, latent Antonyms : active Derivatives : quiescence, quiesce, quiescency, quiescently Lesson: 11 Word: 22

fallow FAL ow

inactive, plowed but not sowed In order for land to be productive, it must lie fallow occasionally. Synonyms : Antonyms : active Derivatives : fallowness Lesson: 8 Word: 12

dormant DOR munt

inactive, sleeping Most flowers remain dormant in the winter and bloom in the spring. Synonyms : abeyant, latent, quiescent Antonyms : active Derivatives : dormancy Lesson: 3 Word: 9

implacable im PLAK uh bul

incapable of being appeased That young man is the enemy of the implacable woman standing in the corner; she will never stop hating him. Synonyms : Antonyms : yielding Derivatives : implacability, implacableness, implacably Lesson: 13 Word: 14

indomitable in DOM eh tuh bul

incapable of being conquered He was from a tribe that was thought to be indomitable but finally was forced to live on the reservation. Synonyms : Antonyms : weak Derivatives : indomitability, indomitableness, indomitably Lesson: 21 Word: 14

impervious im PUR vee us

incapable of being entered or penetrated, not capable of being damaged Because this watch is impervious to water , I can go swimming while wearing it. Synonyms : Antonyms : penetrable Derivatives : imperviously, imperviousness Lesson: 5 Word: 15

ineffable in EF uh bul

incapable of being expressed in speech or words Her delight in being selected as a cheerleader was ineffable. Synonyms : Antonyms : easily expressed Derivatives : ineffability, ineffableness, ineffably Lesson: 24 Word: 13

incorrigible in KOR eh juh bul

incapable of being reformed or improved He was expelled from school because of his incorrigible conduct. Synonyms : Antonyms : amenable to improvement Derivatives : incorrigibility, incorrigibleness, incorrigibly Lesson: 3 Word: 15

insatiable in SAY shuh bul

incapable of being satisfied She became quite fat because of her insatiable desire for chocolate. Synonyms : Antonyms : capable of being satisfied Derivatives : insatiability, insatiableness, insatiably, insatiate, insatiated, insatiately, insatiateness, insatiety Lesson: 18 Word: 15

insuperable in SOO pur uh bul

incapable of being surmounted; incapable of being vanquished These are the insuperable heroes who fought for our country. Synonyms : unsurpassable, impassable, invincible Antonyms : easily overcome, surmountable Derivatives : insuperability, insuperableness, insuperably Lesson: 42 Word: 11

impregnable im PREG nuh bul

incapable of being taken by assault, of being broken into or escaped from The warriors felt secure in the impregnable fortress. Synonyms : unconquerable, unassailable Antonyms : easily conquered Derivatives : impregnability, impregnableness, impregnably Lesson: 42 Word: 8

infallible in FAL uh bul

incapable of error Since everyone makes mistakes, no human is infallible. Synonyms : Antonyms : erroneous; fallacious Derivatives : infallibilism, infallibilist, infallibility, infallibleness, infallibly Lesson: 5 Word: 18

sterile STER ul

incapable of reproducing Since the woman was sterile, she and her husband decided to adopt children. Synonyms : Antonyms : productive Derivatives : sterilely, sterility, sterilizable, sterilizability, sterilization, sterilize Lesson: 31 Word: 22

trenchant TREN chunt

incisive or keen ; caustic, cutting His trenchant remarks can cut to the core. Synonyms : sharp, biting, acute Antonyms : soothing; kind Derivatives : trenchancy, trenchantly Lesson: 48 Word: 23

proclivity pro KLIV eh tee

inclination, tendency Most immigrants, because they are anxious to succeed, have a proclivity for hard work. Synonyms : leaning, penchant, propensity Antonyms : disinclination Derivatives : proclive, proclivities Lesson: 22 Word: 16

bellicose BELL uh kose

inclined or eager to fight; aggressively hostile The bellicose young man was always trying to start a fight. Synonyms : belligerent, pugnacious Antonyms : peaceful Derivatives : bellicosely, bellicosity, bellicoseness Lesson: 34 Word: 3

disputatious dis pyoo TAY shus

inclined to fight, to argue, or to debate People avoided serious discussions with him because of his disputatious manner. Synonyms : Antonyms : conciliatory Derivatives : dispute, disputability, disputation, disputatiously, disputatiousness, disputative, disputatively, disputativeness Lesson: 21 Word: 9

predisposed pree deh SPOZD

inclined toward something in advance I believe that the judge was predisposed to freeing the man. Synonyms : Antonyms : objective or neutral Derivatives : predispose, predisposition Lesson: 30 Word: 19

astronomical as trow NOM uh kul

inconceivably large The number of stars in the sky is astronomical. Synonyms : Antonyms : very small; miniscule Derivatives : astronomic, astronomically Lesson: 53 Word: 2

inopportune in op ur TOON

inconvenient, poorly timed Today is an inopportune time to get together since my parents are in town. Synonyms : Antonyms : convenient Derivatives : inopportunely, inopportuneness Lesson: 26 Word: 14

trivia TRIV ee uh

insignificant matters The English teacher is looking for substance, not trivia, in themes. Synonyms : Antonyms : important matters Derivatives : trivial, triviality, trivialization, trivialize, trivally Lesson: 4 Word: 22

impertinent im PUR tuh nunt

insolently rude, not within the proper bounds of good taste or manners His impertinent remarks did not help his case in the eyes of the jury. Synonyms : intrusive, meddlesome, obtrusive, officious Antonyms : reverent; respectful Derivatives : impertinence, impertinency, impertinently, impertinentness Lesson: 36 Word: 10

august aw GUST

inspiring reverence or admiration The crowd was overwhelmed by the august performance of the religious drama. Synonyms : majestic, venerable, eminent Antonyms : meek and lowly Derivatives : augustness, augustly Lesson: 55 Word: 3

edifying ED uh fie ing

instructing and improving spiritually or morally Visiting the cathedral was an edifying experience. Synonyms : Antonyms : heinous; nefarious Derivatives : edification, edificatory, edify, edifier, edifyingness Lesson: 14 Word: 10

didactic die DAK tik

instructive, designed to teach Because of the coach's didactic approach, his players learned many blocking techniques. Synonyms : Antonyms : uninstructive Derivatives : didactical, didacticism, didactive, didactically Lesson: 3 Word: 8

insolence IN suh luns

insulting or contemptuous behavior His insolence and lack of respect for his mother are shocking. Synonyms : arrogance, haughtiness, high-handedness, impertinence Antonyms : Derivatives : insolent, insolently, insolency, insolentness Lesson: 6 Word: 17

disdain dis DANE

intense dislike; to treat with scorn or contempt, to reject as unworthy Never having had to do manual labor, he disdained the idea of becoming a cotton picker. Synonyms : (to be) arrogant, haughty, high-handed, insolent, lordly, Antonyms : favor, admiration; to love Derivatives : disdained, disdaining, disdainer, disdainful, disdainfully, disdainfulness Lesson: 1 Word: 7

precognition pree kog NISH un

knowing something before it happens I wish that I had a precognition of whether she would accept a date with me. Synonyms : Antonyms : recollection Derivatives : precognitive, precognize Lesson: 48 Word: 16

prescient PREE she unt

knowledge of events before they happen, foresight He was led to his success in his experiment by some extraordinary prescient. Synonyms : Antonyms : unaware Derivatives : prescience, presciently Lesson: 52 Word: 17

intuitive in TOO eh tiv

known without rational thought Her feelings that something bad was about to happen were strictly intuitive; she had no basis for them. Synonyms : instinctive Antonyms : Derivatives : intuitively, intuitiveness, intuitivism, intuitivist, intuition, intuitionless, intuitional, intuitionally, intuitionalism Lesson: 42 Word: 12

discord DIS kord

lack of agreement, tension, strife There is a lot of discord in the nation over the issue of abortion. Synonyms : contention, dissension, variance Antonyms : harmony; agreement Derivatives : discordance, discordancy, discordant, discordantly, discordantness Lesson: 4 Word: 9

ineptness in EPT nes

lack of competence or judgment The evidence of his ineptness as a coach is his poor win-loss record. Synonyms : gauche, maladroit Antonyms : expertise Derivatives : inept, ineptly, ineptitude Lesson: 10 Word: 12

intemperance in TEM pur uns

lack of moderation (usually relating to drinking alcohol) Some fraternity members are known for their intemperance. Synonyms : Antonyms : temperance; moderation Derivatives : intemperate, intemperancy, intemperately, intemperateness Lesson: 34 Word: 12

nebulous NEB yuh lus

lacking clarity of feature or sharpness of outline She had a nebulous recollection of the meeting with the man, unable to provide any specific facts about it. Synonyms : hazy, indistinct, turbid, clouded Antonyms : Derivatives : nebulously, nebulousness, nebulosity Lesson: 24 Word: 14

vacuous VAK yoo us

lacking content; marked by a lack of intelligence The girl's vacuous statements labeled her as silly and immature. Synonyms : empty, vacant, void Antonyms : intelligent Derivatives : vacuously, vacuousness Lesson: 25 Word: 22

frivolous FRIV uh lus

lacking in seriousness or importance A teacher should limit frivolous behavior in the classroom. Synonyms : Antonyms : serious; sober Derivatives : frivolity, frivolousness, frivolously Lesson: 6 Word: 12

licentious lie SEN shus

lacking moral or sexual restraint, wanton His licentious behavior caused him to lose his honored position in society. Synonyms : Antonyms : restrained Derivatives : licentiously, licentiousness Lesson: 57 Word: 11

inane eh NANE

lacking significance, meaning, or point; silly, insipid Your comments are inane and are preventing the discussion of the main topic. Synonyms : banal, flat, jejune, vapid Antonyms : pertinent; intelligent; significant Derivatives : inanely, inanity, inanition Lesson: 5 Word: 16

provincial pruh VEN shul

lacking sophistication, narrow-minded Her parents are so provincial that they believe they should arrange her marriage. Synonyms : Antonyms : sophisticated Derivatives : provinciate, provincialism, provinciality, provincialization Lesson: 7 Word: 19

flaccid FLAK sid

lacking vigor or force; yielding to pressure for want of firmness and The club was not very popular or effective because of its flaccid leadership. Synonyms : flabby Antonyms : firm; stiff; not flabby Derivatives : flaccidly, flaccidity, flaccidness Lesson: 47 Word: 11

promontory PROM un tore ee

land or rock projecting into a body of water A promontory is an ideal place to build a lighthouse. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : promontories, promontoried Lesson: 12 Word: 18

indulgent in DUL junt

lenient, especially toward oneself The boy did not learn respect from his indulgent parents. Synonyms : Antonyms : harsh; strict Derivatives : indulge, indulged, indulging, indulgence, indulgently, indulger Lesson: 10 Word: 11

scanty SKAN tee

less than or barely sufficient, meager Because the details of the incident are so scanty, we are not able to make any firm conclusions at this time. Synonyms : Antonyms : copious; abundant Derivatives : scantiness, scantily, scantly Lesson: 61 Word: 22

comatose KOM uh tose

lethargic, unconscious After the operation, he was in a comatose state. Synonyms : Antonyms : conscious; aware Derivatives : comatosely Lesson: 26 Word: 5

blithe BLIETH

lighthearted, joyous, glad, cheerful, free of spirit Her blithe spirit provided an air of gaiety at the meeting. Synonyms : jocund, jolly, jovial Antonyms : morose Derivatives : blithely, blithesome, blithesomely, blithesomeness Lesson: 16 Word: 5

labyrinthine lab uh RIN thin

like a maze, very convoluted and intricate The senator vowed to unravel the labyrinthine welfare bureaucracy. Synonyms : mazy Antonyms : Derivatives : labyrinth, labyrinthal, labyrinthical, labyrinthian, labyrinthic, labyrinthically Lesson: 30 Word: 15

fickle FIK ul

likely to change, capricious Because of her fickle behavior, he had little trust that she would continue to love him. Synonyms : inconstant, mercurial, unstable Antonyms : steadfast; constant Derivatives : fickler, ficklest, fickleness Lesson: 22 Word: 9

perishable PER eh shuh bul

likely to decay or to spoil We have to move the perishable items to a cooler place. Synonyms : Antonyms : unlikely to deteriorate Derivatives : perishability, perishableness, perishably, perishing, perishless, perishment Lesson: 47 Word: 14

parochial puh ROE key ul

limited in range or scope, narrow, provincial Having parochial attitudes, she was not receptive to new ideas. Synonyms : Antonyms : broadminded Derivatives : parochialism, parochiality, parochialize, parochially Lesson: 13 Word: 18

modicum MOD eh kum

limited quantity I insist on at least a modicum of decorum. Synonyms : Antonyms : abundance Derivatives : modicums Lesson: 65 Word: 16

lineage LEN ee ij

line of descent or tradition The girl traced her lineage to a family in the American revolution. Synonyms : background, ancestry Antonyms : Derivatives : lineages Lesson: 59 Word: 13

raucous RAH kus

loud and boisterous, harsh, disorderly The raucous crowd at the fight threw chairs into the ring to show disagreement with the decision. Synonyms : stentorian, strident Antonyms : quiet; mild Derivatives : raucously, raucousness, raucid, raucity Lesson: 20 Word: 19

din DEN

loud and discordant noises, cacophony The din in the senate was so great that I could not hear the speaker. Synonyms : Antonyms : euphony Derivatives : dins, dinned, dinning Lesson: 11 Word: 7

strident STRIDE unt

loud and harsh sounding The teacher used a strident voice when reprimanding a student. Synonyms : raucous, stentorian, boisterous, clamorous, obstreperous Antonyms : soft and pleasant Derivatives : stridently Lesson: 13 Word: 24

preciosity presh ee OS eh tee

meticulousness, extreme fastidiousness English gentlemen are known for their preciosity. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of concern; indifference Derivatives : preciosities Lesson: 45 Word: 18

clamor KLAM ur

loud noise or shouting The clamor finally subsided when the children went to bed. Synonyms : Antonyms : quiet Derivatives : clamors, clamored, clamoring, clamorous, clamorously, clamorousness Lesson: 25 Word: 5

extemporaneous ik stem puh RAY nee

made with little or no preparation, not planned Our club president gets into trouble sometimes when he makes extemporaneous remarks. Synonyms : Antonyms : planned Derivatives : extemporaneity, extemporally, extemporaneously, extemporaneousness Lesson: 43 Word: 9

obviates OB vee ates

makes unnecessary, prevents as a result of anticipating I hope that this settlement obviates any further contact between us. Synonyms : Antonyms : instigates; begins Derivatives : obviated, obviable, obviation, obviative Lesson: 61 Word: 14

adversity ad VER suh tee

misfortune, unfavorable happening He has suffered much adversity by first losing his job and then losing his wife. Synonyms : Antonyms : prosperity Derivatives : adverse Lesson: 10 Word: 3

misnomer mis NO mur

misnaming, use of a wrong name Some think that "a peacekeeper" is a misnomer for an MX missile . Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : misnomered, misnomed Lesson: 23 Word: 18

pretentious preh TEN shus

making an extravagant outward show, self-important Isn't it a little pretentious to spend two million dollars on a wedding? Synonyms : ostentatious, pompous Antonyms : meek; humble; shy Derivatives : pretension, pretention, pretensionless, pretensive, pretentiously, pretentiousness Lesson: 3 Word: 20

uproarious up ROAR ee us

making great noise (not necessarily negative) The Beatles usually played to uproarious crowds. Synonyms : tumultuous Antonyms : soft, quiet Derivatives : uproariously, uproariousness, uproar Lesson: 39 Word: 25

obstreperous ub STREP ur us

marked by aggressive noisiness; stubbornly defiant The obstreperous blaring of the radio was quite annoying. Synonyms : vociferous, clamorous, strident, boisterous Antonyms : quiet and docile Derivatives : obstreperousness, obstreperously Lesson: 40 Word: 19

assiduous uh SIJ you us

marked by careful and unremitting attention, constant in application He worked assiduously at studying geometry for weeks before he felt prepared to take the final exam. Synonyms : industrious, sedulous, diligent Antonyms : desultory; lazy Derivatives : assiduously, assiduousness Lesson: 36 Word: 2

tumultuous too MUL choo us

marked by disturbance and uproar; raising a great clatter and commotion Our class reunion had a tumultuous celebration. Synonyms : uproarious, turbulent, violent, boisterous, unquiet Antonyms : calm; quiet; peaceful Derivatives : tumult, tumultuary, tumultuously, tumultuousness Lesson: 31 Word: 23

imperturbable im pur TUR buh bul

marked by extreme calm, impassivity, assurance and steadiness Before the accident he seemed imperturbable, but now he is becoming frantic. Synonyms : composed, collected, cool, unruffled, nonchalant Antonyms : frantic Derivatives : imperturbability, imperturbableness, imperturbably, imperturbation, imperturbed Lesson: 15 Word: 13

precipitous preh SIP eh tus

marked by great rapidity, haste, or lack of caution Her precipitous behavior led her to make silly mistakes. The precipitous slope rose before us. Synonyms : hasty, sudden, rash; steep, sheer Antonyms : gradual Derivatives : precipitously, precipitousness, precipice Lesson: 40 Word: 21

voluminous vuh LOO muh nus

marked by great volume or size There are voluminous writings about most of our presidents. Synonyms : Antonyms : slight Derivatives : voluminosity, voluminously, voluminousness Lesson: 16 Word: 25

chronic KRON ik

marked by long duration or by frequent recurrence over a long period The chain smoker is often plagued by a chronic cough. Synonyms : unending, habitual, inveterate Antonyms : transitory Derivatives : chronical, chronically, chronicity Lesson: 42 Word: 2

puritanical pyoor eh TAN eh kul

marked by severe or rigid morality The girl's father was so puritanical he would not allow her to date until she was eighteen years old. Synonyms : Antonyms : satanical Derivatives : puritanic, puritan, puritanically, puritanicalness, puritanism, puritanize Lesson: 41 Word: 17

carnal KAR nul

marked by sexuality that is often frank and unrelieved by higher emotions The man's carnal actions prompted his dismissal from the social gathering. Synonyms : bodily, corporeal, worldly, fleshly, sensual, crude Antonyms : spiritual Derivatives : carnalist, carnality, carnalize Lesson: 63 Word: 3

pious PIE us

marked by showing zealous devotion to the rites of religion He engages in many pious practices such as attending mass. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : piety, piously Lesson: 20 Word: 18

mottled MOT uld

marked with spots of different color The floor was covered with mottled linoleum. Synonyms : spotted, blotched Antonyms : evenly colored Derivatives : mottle, mottles, mottlings Lesson: 46 Word: 13

espousing eh SPOUZ ing

marrying, giving one's loyalty; adopting or embracing a cause The politician seems to be espousing the issue of decreased taxation in order to gain supporters. Synonyms : Antonyms : denying Derivatives : espoused, espousing, espousal, espouser Lesson: 14 Word: 12

monolithic mon uh LITH ik

massive and rigidly fixed uniformly Some argue that communism is monolithic, and others say that there are many types of communism. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : monolith, monolithism Lesson: 60 Word: 14

titanic tie TAN ik

massive, enormous in scope Poverty is a titanic problem in the valley. Synonyms : Antonyms : puny Derivatives : titan, titanian, titanically Lesson: 65 Word: 24

monumental mon yuh MEN tul

massive, very great, very important Sending man to the moon was a monumental achievement. Synonyms : Antonyms : trivial Derivatives : monumentalism, monumentality, monumentally Lesson: 32 Word: 16

chaff CHAF

material separated from the seed after threshing, worthless matter Chaff is the residue from the threshing process of separating seed. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : chaffless, chafflike Lesson: 45 Word: 3

prattle PRAT ul

meaningless sounds, babble I have difficulty understanding the prattle of young children. Synonyms : Antonyms : articulate language Derivatives : prattled, prattling, prattlement, prattler, prattingly Lesson: 10 Word: 17

formidable FORE meh duh bul

menacing, causing fear or awe That retired boxer was a formidable opponent in his time. Synonyms : Antonyms : harmless; unimportant Derivatives : formidability, formidableness, formidably Lesson: 56 Word: 9

acumen uh KEW men

mental sharpness Several past Presidents have been known for their political acumen. Synonyms : insight, discernment Antonyms : lack of perceptiveness Derivatives : acuminous, acuminate, acuminated, acumination, acuminating Lesson: 57 Word: 1

jollity JOL eh tee

merriment, state of being jolly There was much good feeling and jollity at the Christmas party. Synonyms : glee, hilarity, mirth Antonyms : sadness Derivatives : jollier, jollification, jollify, jollily, jolliness, jolly Lesson: 16 Word: 13

slovenly SLUV un lee

messy, untidy, careless A person with slovenly work habits will likely lose his job. Synonyms : Antonyms : fastidious Derivatives : slovenry, slovenness, slovenliness Lesson: 19 Word: 21

obsequious ub SEE kwee us

overly attentive, like a sycophant, servile I believe that his obsequious behavior toward his grandmother is to ensure being included in the will. Synonyms : slavish, subservient Antonyms : disinterested Derivatives : obsequence, obsequent, obsequience, obsequiously, obsequiousness, obsequity Lesson: 8 Word: 19

theatrical the AT ruh kul

overly dramatic, exaggerated in behavior You do not need to be so theatrical to make your point. Synonyms : Antonyms : unaffected Derivatives : theater, theatrics, theatricalism, theatricality, theatricalization Lesson: 54 Word: 22

officious uh FISH us

overly dutiful or obliging, insisting on providing a service not requested The boss is not pleased with that employee's officious conduct. Synonyms : impertinent, intrusive, meddlesome, obtrusive Antonyms : disinterested Derivatives : officiously, officiousness Lesson: 31 Word: 16

maudlin MOD lin

overly sentimental The maudlin clown cried excessively over a simple popped balloon. Synonyms : mawkish Antonyms : Derivatives : maudlinism, maudlinly, maudlinness Lesson: 27 Word: 14

servile SUR vil, SUR vile

overly submissive Having complete devotion and submissiveness for the sheik, the women of the harem were very servile. Synonyms : obsequious, slavish, subservient Antonyms : authoritative Derivatives : servilely, servilism, servility, servitude Lesson: 3 Word: 23

saccharine SAK uh rin

overly sweet attitude Her saccharine attitude disgusted me, but it seemed to win her many friends. Synonyms : Antonyms : vitriolic Derivatives : saccharinity Lesson: 18 Word: 22

histrionic his tree ON iks

overly theatrical Your histrionics do not sway my opinion. Synonyms : Antonyms : sincere Derivatives : histrionical, histrionically Lesson: 62 Word: 8

trite TRITE

overused, commonplace, hackneyed This essay is full of trite phrases; it needs a fresh approach, avoiding phrases so hackneyed and overused. Synonyms : threadbare Antonyms : unusual Derivatives : triter, tritest, tritely, triteness Lesson: 15 Word: 23

forbearance fore BARE uns

patience, lenience Because he is so young, we must have forbearance in dealing with him. Synonyms : Antonyms : impatience Derivatives : forbear, forbearant, forbearer, forbearing, forbearingly, forbearingness, forbore Lesson: 6 Word: 11

placid PLAS id

peaceful, calm The wilderness is usually a placid place where one can relax. Synonyms : serene, tranquil Antonyms : disturbed Derivatives : placidity, placidly, placidness Lesson: 12 Word: 16

tranquil TRANG kwul

peaceful, calm Weather in Texas can quickly change from tranquil to turbulent. Synonyms : placid, serene Antonyms : agitated Derivatives : tranquilization, tranquilize, tranquility, tranquilness, tranquilizer Lesson: 2 Word: 24

communal kuh MYOON ul

pertaining to a group or community A hermit does not enjoy communal situations. Synonyms : Antonyms : individual Derivatives : commune, communed, communing, communally, communalism, communalist, communalization Lesson: 43 Word: 4

pneumatic noo MAT ik

pertaining to air or gas A pneumatic drill uses compressed air. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : pneumatics, pneumatism, pneumatization, pneumatize Lesson: 59 Word: 18

epochal EP uh kul

pertaining to an epoch (a period of time marked by distinctive events) His marriage was an epochal event in his life. Synonyms : significant, important Antonyms : insignificant Derivatives : epoch, epochally Lesson: 56 Word: 7

forensic fuh REN sik

pertaining to debate or argument Many students take debate classes in preparation for the forensic competitions. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : forensical Lesson: 55 Word: 7

kinetic keh NET ik

pertaining to motion; characterized by movement The mobile is a form of kinetic sculpture. Synonyms : Antonyms : immobile Derivatives : kinetically Lesson: 43 Word: 16

celestial seh LES chul

pertaining to the sky or heavens Stars are celestial bodies. Synonyms : Antonyms : earthly Derivatives : celestially Lesson: 29 Word: 4

poignant POIN yunt

piercing, incisive, and keen The man's poignant words struck the very heart of the matter. Synonyms : piquant, pungent, racy Antonyms : dull Derivatives : poignance, poignancy, poignantly Lesson: 7 Word: 18

homely HOME lee

plain or unattractive in appearance The girl was rather homely, but she had a wit and an intellect that could not be matched. Synonyms : Antonyms : pretty; attractive Derivatives : homeliness, homlier, homliest Lesson: 22 Word: 11

euphonious yoo FOE nee us

pleasant or agreeable (sound); dulcet The euphonious sound of the record lulled the baby to sleep. Synonyms : Antonyms : raucous; dissonant Derivatives : euphonym euphonic, euphonia, euphonically, euphonical, euphoniously, euphoniousness Lesson: 12 Word: 9

hyperbole hi PER buh lee

obvious exaggeration You have often heard the hyperbole "I've told you a million times;" it's an obvious exaggeration. Synonyms : Antonyms : understatement Derivatives : hyperbolic, hyperbolically, hyperbolical, hyperbolism Lesson: 8 Word: 14

conspicuous kun SPIK yoo us

obvious, noticeable, attracting attention The wife of the president was conspicuous by her absence. Synonyms : prominent, remarkable, salient, striking Antonyms : veiled; hidden Derivatives : conspicuity, conspicuously, conspicuousness Lesson: 57 Word: 5

sporadic spo RAD ik

occasionally occurring While there are sporadic showers, the summers in the western part of Texas are usually hot and dry. Synonyms : infrequent, rare, scarce, uncommon Antonyms : constant Derivatives : sporadically, sporadicity Lesson: 20 Word: 22

diurnal die UR nul

occurring during the day or daily Several of the events for graduation will be diurnal. Synonyms : Antonyms : occurring at night, nocturnal Derivatives : diurnally, diurnation Lesson: 53 Word: 6

premature pree muh TOOR

occurring or existing earlier than what is normal Premature children need special care because their vital systems are not fully developed. Synonyms : Antonyms : overdue Derivatives : prematurely, prematureness, prematurity Lesson: 31 Word: 17

droll DROLE

odd or whimsical The droll expression on the man's face revealed his sense of humor. Synonyms : Antonyms : serious Derivatives : drollery, drollingly, drolliness Lesson: 61 Word: 6

apocryphal uh PA kra ful

of doubtful origin or authenticity, not genuine The jury saw through the apocryphal tears of the witness. Synonyms : Antonyms : of known origin; genuine Derivatives : apocryphally, apocryphalness Lesson: 14 Word: 3

ignoble ig NO bul

of lowly origin, without honor I do not like his ignoble ideas. Synonyms : abject, mean, sordid Antonyms : noble; grand; lofty Derivatives : ignobility, ignobleness, ignobly Lesson: 37 Word: 11

terrestrial teh RES tree ul

of the earth or pertaining to the earth Humans are terrestrial beings. Synonyms : Antonyms : heavenly Derivatives : terrestrially, terrain Lesson: 20 Word: 24

superlative suh PUR luh tiv

of the highest kind or order; surpassing all others The professor's superlative writings earned him a fellowship and a research grant. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : superlatively, superlativeness Lesson: 63 Word: 21

homogeneous hoe muh JEE nee us

of the same kind To get the best results with this research, we need a homogeneous group of people to fill out the questionnaire. Synonyms : Antonyms : heterogeneous Derivatives : homogeneously, homogeneousness Lesson: 8 Word: 13

superb soo PURB

of very high quality The superb beauty of the Grand Canyon completely overwhelmed me. Synonyms : resplendent, sublime Antonyms : grossly inferior Derivatives : superbity, superbly, superbness Lesson: 56 Word: 20

approbation ap row BAY shun

official approval, praise, commendation We initiated the attack with the approbation of the general. Synonyms : Antonyms : disapprobation, disapproval Derivatives : approbate, approbated, approbating, approbative, approbatory, approbativeness Lesson: 22 Word: 1

ellipsis eh LIP sis

omission of words necessary for complete construction If (it is) possible, (you) come early. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : ellipses Lesson: 44 Word: 9

peripheral puh RIF ur ul

on the edge, not important Let's discuss the main topic now and save peripheral issues for later. Synonyms : Antonyms : central; essential; at the core Derivatives : peripheral, peripheric, peripheralism, peripherally, peripherically, periphery Lesson: 14 Word: 18

tier TEER

one of a series of rows or levels Our symphony seats are on the third tier of the auditorium. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : tiers Lesson: 64 Word: 21

polemicist puh LEM eh sist

one skilled in argument and in refuting attacks It is vital that a politician be a polemicist so he can present and defend the positions of his constituency. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : polemist, polemize, polemics, polemic, polemical Lesson: 60 Word: 17

virtuoso vur choo OH so

one skilled in the fine arts as an accomplished musician, a savant Having played with some of the greatest symphonies in the world, he was known as a virtuoso. Synonyms : Antonyms : unskilled beginner Derivatives : virtuosity Lesson: 9 Word: 25

saboteur sab uh TUR

one that destroys property or normal operations (usually in a war effort) Saboteurs sneak behind enemy lines and blow up power lines and bridges. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sabotage Lesson: 63 Word: 18

predator PRED uh tur

one that preys, plunders, or destroys A hawk is a predator because it survives by attacking other animals. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : predatism, predatory, preditorily, predatoriness Lesson: 42 Word: 18

sleuth SLOOTH

one that searches out and investigates obscure information Sherlock Holmes is a sleuth of worldwide renown. Synonyms : detective Antonyms : Derivatives : sleuthed, sleuthing, sleuths Lesson: 64 Word: 19

iconoclast eye KON uh klast

one who attacks established beliefs or institutions The church is constantly under attack by iconoclasts. Synonyms : Antonyms : disciple Derivatives : iconoclasm, iconoclastic, iconoclastically Lesson: 20 Word: 13

anarchist AN ar kist

one who believes in the absence of government or law When the government fell and there was a total state of disorder, the anarchist was happy. Synonyms : Antonyms : tyrant; monarch Derivatives : anarchy, anarchically, anarchical, anarchic, anarchism, anarchistic Lesson: 16 Word: 3

nihilist NIE uh list

one who believes in total rejection of established laws and institutions The anarchist was a true nihilist who hated much more than governmental restrictions. Synonyms : Antonyms : traditionalist; one who believes in Derivatives : nihilism, nihilistic, nihility Lesson: 57 Word: 13

proselytizer PROS uh leh tize ur

one who causes another to convert from one belief or faith to another His conversion to that religion inspired him to become a proselytizer to others. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : proselyte, proselyter, proselytical, proselytism, proselytist, proselytistic, proselytization Lesson: 63 Word: 17

charlatan SHAR luh tun

one who claims to know something that he does not, a quack The side show featured a charlatan posing as a mind reader. Synonyms : Antonyms : a professional; authentic authority Derivatives : charlatanic, charlatanism, charlatanry Lesson: 7 Word: 5

masochist MAS uh kist

one who derives satisfaction from suffering pain Masochists enjoy inflicting pain on themselves, and sadists enjoy inflicting pain on others. Synonyms : Antonyms : sadist Derivatives : masochism, masochistic, masochistically Lesson: 49 Word: 14

zealot ZEL ot

one who embraces a cause and supports it with vigor The man was known as a religious zealot, as he never stopped trying to convert others to his beliefs. Synonyms : enthusiast Antonyms : one without enthusiasm or passion Derivatives : zealotic, zealotism, zealotry, zealous, zealously Lesson: 25 Word: 25

philanderer feh LAN dur ur

one who engages in love affairs lightly or insincerely I asked my daughter how she could fall in love with a playboy and a philanderer. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : philander, philandered, philandering Lesson: 30 Word: 18

partisan PAR ti zen

one who exhibits extreme or possibly blind allegiance to a group or cause The cause was supported by a small group of partisans. Synonyms : adherent, disciple, follower Antonyms : antagonist Derivatives : partisanism, partisanry, partisanship Lesson: 20 Word: 17

libertarian lib ur TAR ee un

one who favors absolute liberty and free will Libertarians want less governmental control over their lives. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : libertarianism Lesson: 38 Word: 14

hack HAK

one who forfeits professional integrity in exchange for money or reward Only a hack would go to work for one of those offensive tabloid newspapers. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : hacks Lesson: 25 Word: 9

fussbudget FUS buj it

one who fusses My sister is earning a reputation as a fussbudget because she constantly complains. Synonyms : Antonyms : a serene person; a pacifist Derivatives : fussbudgety Lesson: 44 Word: 10

lecher LECH ur

one who indulges excessively in sexual activity or in lasciviousness The young woman was repulsed by the unwanted sexual advances of the lecher. Synonyms : Antonyms : ascetic Derivatives : lechery, lecherous, lecherously, lecherousness Lesson: 33 Word: 12

interloper IN tur lope ur

one who interferes in the affairs or with the rights of others As the man tried to work out his difficulties a busy-body interloper jumped in and made matters worse. Synonyms : Antonyms : ascetic; hermit Derivatives : interlope Lesson: 30 Word: 14

malfeasant mal FEE zunt

one who is guilty of misbehavior or wrongdoing The criminal had been a malfeasant since early childhood. Synonyms : Antonyms : law-abiding citizen Derivatives : malfeasance Lesson: 42 Word: 14

hypocrite HIP uh krit

one who is insincere or deceitful Saying one thing and then doing the other is the mark of a hypocrite. Synonyms : Antonyms : sincere person Derivatives : hypocrites, hypocritical, hypocritically, hypocrital, hypocrisy Lesson: 2 Word: 16

raconteur rak on TUR

one who is skillful at telling stories and anecdotes One of the reasons that most Americans loved Will Rogers was that he was a wonderful raconteur. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : raconteuse Lesson: 33 Word: 17

fly-by-night FLY by nite

one who is temporary and usually unreliable It is not wise to hire a fly-by-night for an important position. Synonyms : Antonyms : permanent Derivatives : fly-by-nighter Lesson: 39 Word: 10

bigot BIG ut

one who is utterly intolerant of any creed or belief differing from his own He is such a bigot that he will not even listen to our point of view. Synonyms : Antonyms : open-minded person Derivatives : bigoted, bigotedly, bigotry, bigotries Lesson: 45 Word: 2

sentinel SEN tuh nul

one who keeps guard as a sentry The oak trees hovered over the house as sentinels. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sentineled, sentineling, sentinels Lesson: 33 Word: 19

ascetic uh SET ik

one who leads a life of self-denial and contemplation; absent of luxury The rich playboy could not understand the ascetic life led by the monk. Synonyms : austere, severe, stern Antonyms : sensual Derivatives : ascetical, asceticism, ascetically Lesson: 7 Word: 3

vagabond VAG uh bond

one who leads an unsettled, irresponsible or disreputable life During the winter months the library is often a warm resting place for the vagabond. Synonyms : vagrant, truant, tramp, hobo, bum Antonyms : Derivatives : vagabonds, vagabondage, vagabondia Lesson: 64 Word: 22

miser MY zur

one who lives in wretched circumstances to save and hoard money The old miser lived in a shack but was actually a millionaire. Synonyms : niggard, skinflint, tightwad, pinchpenny Antonyms : one who spends money easily Derivatives : miserly, miserliness Lesson: 10 Word: 15

alchemist AL kuh mist

one who practices medieval chemistry or tries to change metals into gold The alchemist wanted to change iron into gold. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : alchemistic, alchemistical, alchemize, alchemy, alchemic, alchemical, alchemically Lesson: 55 Word: 1

purveyors pur VAY ur

one who provides or procures The purveyors were able to get all sorts of things for their Army division. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : purveyance, purveyor Lesson: 46 Word: 18

plunderer PLUN dur ur

one who robs or loots or otherwise takes things by force In a war situation, invading armies are sometimes seen as little more than plunderers. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : plunder,plunderable,plunderingly, plunderous, plunderage Lesson: 42 Word: 17

hedonist HEED un ist

one who seeks pleasure as the sole aim in life The world is full of hedonists who seek nothing but their own pleasures. Synonyms : Antonyms : ascetic Derivatives : hedonism, hedonistically, hedonistical, hedonics, hedonic, hedonically Lesson: 14 Word: 13

traducer truh DOOS ur

one who slanders or speaks falsely about someone After hearing the gossip, the woman confronted the traducer face to face to stop the vicious slander. Synonyms : Antonyms : one who praises or extols Derivatives : traduce, traducement, traduction Lesson: 44 Word: 23

stalwart STAL wurt

one who supports a cause with firm partisanship That justice was known as a stalwart in defending 1st amendment rights. Synonyms : resolute , strong Antonyms : Derivatives : stalwartly, starlwartness Lesson: 22 Word: 21

scapegoat SKAPE gote

one who takes the blame for others Since no one wanted to point a finger at the real culprit, the innocent man was made a scapegoat for the crime. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 21 Word: 22

philanthropist feh LAN thruh pist

one who tries to do good for mankind; lover of mankind Ross Perot is a philanthropist, donating money for many projects and causes. Synonyms : Antonyms : misanthrope Derivatives : philanthrope, philanthropic, philanthropically, philanthropism, philanthropistic, philanthropy Lesson: 25 Word: 13

introvert IN truh vurt

one who turns inward and concentrates thoughts upon himself He is such an introvert that he is not even interested in making new friends. Synonyms : Antonyms : extrovert Derivatives : introverted, introvertive, introversion, introversive, introversively Lesson: 23 Word: 15

prodigy PROD eh jee

one with exceptional talents or powers; an extraordinary accomplishment Mozart was considered a child prodigy since he had great musical talents at a very early age. Synonyms : Antonyms : ordinary occurrence Derivatives : prodigies Lesson: 21 Word: 19

amenable uh MEN uh bul

open to or willing to follow advice or suggestion, tractable, malleable Since I like him and usually agree with him, I am always amenable to listening to his ideas. Synonyms : docile, obedient Antonyms : unwilling Derivatives : amenability, amenableness, amenably Lesson: 5 Word: 3

overt oh VURT

open to view In an overt attempt to take over the corporation, he offered $50 per share for stock in the company. Synonyms : conspicuous Antonyms : secret; hidden Derivatives : overtly, overtness Lesson: 41 Word: 13

pacifistic pas uh FIS tik

opposed to war or use of force The man refused to fight because of his pacifistic beliefs. Synonyms : appeased, conciliated, mollified, placated, propitiated Antonyms : martial Derivatives : pacifist, pacifier, pacifism, pacifistically, pacify Lesson: 3 Word: 19

mundane mun DANE

ordinary, commonplace After I take care of these mundane matters, we can do something exciting. Synonyms : Antonyms : unusual; outstanding Derivatives : mundanely, mundaneness, mundanity Lesson: 4 Word: 16

workaday WUR kuh day

ordinary, commonplace Because the novelist included workaday settings in her book, she was able to appeal to the ordinary man. Synonyms : Antonyms : extraordinary Derivatives : Lesson: 33 Word: 25

pedestrian puh DES tree un

ordinary, unimaginative There will not be much progress as long as the school board maintains its pedestrian attitude. Synonyms : Antonyms : extraordinary; unusual Derivatives : pedestrianate, pedestrianize, pedestrianism Lesson: 35 Word: 14

primordial pry MORE dee ul

original, existing at the beginning (usually relates to time) Some believe that an ape-like creature is the human's primordial ancestor. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : primordially, primordium Lesson: 26 Word: 18

askew uh SKEW

out of line, slanted Please straighten any pictures that are hanging askew. Synonyms : crooked Antonyms : straight Derivatives : Lesson: 51 Word: 3

anomalous uh NAHM uh lus

out of place, abnormal Seeing a Toyota in the background of that World War II movie was anomalous. Synonyms : Antonyms : fitting a pattern Derivatives : anomalously, anomalousness, anomaly, anomalies Lesson: 19 Word: 2

bizarre buh ZAR

out of the ordinary, odd Snow in May is a bizarre occurrence for Texans. Synonyms : Antonyms : ordinary Derivatives : bizarrely, bizarreness Lesson: 34 Word: 4

upshot UP shot

outcome, final result The upshot of the riot is that some are dead, and many are wounded. Synonyms : Antonyms : initial step Derivatives : upshots Lesson: 59 Word: 24

arrogant AIR uh gunt

overbearingly assuming; insolently proud Because the girl was so arrogant, she had few friends. Synonyms : presumptuous, haughty, imperious, brazen Antonyms : meek, modest Derivatives : arrogance, arrogancy, arrogantly Lesson: 1 Word: 4

ebullient eh BUL yunt

overflowing with excitement, showing enthusiasm She was ebullient about going to the prom. Synonyms : Antonyms : staid, stoic Derivatives : ebullience, ebulliency, ebulliently Lesson: 39 Word: 9

sated SAY ted

satisfied fully, indulged to excess He was quite sated after finishing the seven course meal. Synonyms : cloyed, glutted, gorged, palled, satiated, surfeited Antonyms : ravenous Derivatives : sate, satiate, satiated, satiation, satiety Lesson: 9 Word: 21

ferocity fuh ROS eh tee

savagery A tiger is an animal that has ferocity. Synonyms : Antonyms : mildness Derivatives : ferocious, ferociously, ferociousness Lesson: 5 Word: 12

paucity PAH seh tee

scarcity, fewness of number, dearth The low achievement test scores indicate that I have a paucity of intelligent students this year. Synonyms : Antonyms : plenty Derivatives : pauciloquy Lesson: 11 Word: 18

erudite ER yoo dite

scholarly The erudite physics professor had spent many years studying the theory of relativity. Synonyms : Antonyms : ignorant Derivatives : eruditely,erudition Lesson: 3 Word: 11

derision deh REH zhun

scoffing at, mockery, ridicule The boy received much derision for his plaid gym shorts. Synonyms : Antonyms : applause Derivatives : derisive, derisiveness, derisively, derisory Lesson: 6 Word: 8

contempt kun TEMPT

scorn, extreme dislike or disdain The man treated the gossiping woman with contempt; talking about other people was beneath his dignity. Synonyms : despicableness, pitiableness, scurviness Antonyms : respect Derivatives : contemptible, contemptuous Lesson: 15 Word: 6

monastic muh NAS tik

seclusion or simplicity of life The hermit led a very monastic life. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : monk, monastical, monastically, monasticism, monastery, monasterial Lesson: 54 Word: 12

clandestine klan DES tin

secret The C.I.A. is involved in clandestine activities. Synonyms : covert, furtive, stealthy, surreptitious, underhanded Antonyms : open; obvious Derivatives : clandestinely, clandestineness Lesson: 6 Word: 5

furtive FUR tiv

secret in an underhanded way, stealthy During the test, he made some furtive glances at other classmates' papers. Synonyms : clandestine, covert, stealthy, surreptitious, underhanded Antonyms : bold Derivatives : furtively, furtiveness Lesson: 2 Word: 14

cant KANT

secret jargon or slang The rites of the Masons are characterized by their cant. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : cants, canted, canting Lesson: 23 Word: 4

surreptitious sur up TISH us

secret, clandestine, stealthy The Watergate burglars tried to attain information in a surreptitious manner. Synonyms : covert, furtive, underhanded Antonyms : aboveboard; in an open manner Derivatives : surreptitiously Lesson: 8 Word: 23

covert KUV urt, KO vurt

secret, concealed The spy was engaged in many covert activities; it was his job to keep them secret. Synonyms : clandestine, furtive, stealthy, surreptitious, underhanded Antonyms : open, conspicuous Derivatives : covertly, covertness Lesson: 18 Word: 6

arcane are KANE

secret, mysterious The material that is arcane to the students is easily understood by the professor. Synonyms : Antonyms : obvious; easily understood Derivatives : arcanely, arcanist, arcanite, arcanum Lesson: 25 Word: 1

inviolable in VIE uh luh bul

secure from violation or from being profaned The numerous guards attempt to make the President inviolable. Synonyms : Antonyms : destructible Derivatives : inviolate, inviolability, invioableness, invioably, inviolacy, inviolateness, inviolately, inviolated, inviolating Lesson: 26 Word: 15

plausible PLAH zuh bul

seemingly acceptable, believable, or possible We need someone to develop a plausible solution to this problem. Synonyms : Antonyms : unbelievable Derivatives : plausibleness, plausibly, plausibility Lesson: 57 Word: 15

egocentric ee go SEN trik

self-centered, selfish Egocentric people rarely show any concern for others. Synonyms : Antonyms : modest; selfless Derivatives : egocentricity, egocentrism Lesson: 4 Word: 13

pragmatic prag MAT ik

practical, dealing with facts He was not very pragmatic when he dealt with finances. Synonyms : realistic Antonyms : Derivatives : pragmatical, pragmaticality, pragmatically, pragmaticalness, pragmaticism Lesson: 62 Word: 16

sophistry SOF eh stree

practice of intentionally misleading arguments that seem to be plausible Arguing that the Bible supports segregation is sophistry. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sophists, sophistical sophist, sophister, sophistic, sophistically, sophisticalness Lesson: 44 Word: 21

eulogy YOO luh jee

praise or tribute The young woman presented a touching eulogy at her father's funeral. Synonyms : encomium, panegyric, tribute Antonyms : defamation Derivatives : eulogic, eulogious, eulogism, eulogist, eulogistic, eulogium, eulogization, eulogize, eulogizer Lesson: 11 Word: 11

accolade AK uh layd

praise, an award He received many accolades for being an excellent teacher. Synonyms : Antonyms : censure Derivatives : accolades Lesson: 7 Word: 2

acclaim uh KLAYM

praise, approval; to salute; to hail He received great acclaim for discovering a polio vaccine. Synonyms : Antonyms : to slander; to ridicule; to defame Derivatives : acclaimer, acclamation, acclamatory Lesson: 16 Word: 1

antecedent an tuh SEE dunt

preceding a cause The argument between the two men was antecedent to the fight which followed. Synonyms : Antonyms : following; later Derivatives : antecedence, antecedency, antecede, antecedently Lesson: 15 Word: 2

predilection pred uh LEK shun

preference He has a predilection for fish when he goes out to eat. Synonyms : Antonyms : dislike; disinclination Derivatives : predilect, predilected Lesson: 10 Word: 18

propensity pruh PEN seh tee

preference, natural inclination I have a propensity for rising early. Synonyms : leaning, penchant, proclivity Antonyms : aversion Derivatives : propension, propense, propend Lesson: 27 Word: 17

jaundiced JON dist

prejudiced, having a hostile attitude resulting from distorted reasoning His jaundiced viewpoint toward the rich stemmed from his youth of abject poverty. Synonyms : Antonyms : unbiased; unprejudiced Derivatives : jaundice Lesson: 62 Word: 10

foreboding fore BOE ding

premonition of evil, an ominous omen The black clouds overhead were a foreboding of bad weather. Synonyms : prediction, portent, presentiment Antonyms : serene Derivatives : forebode, foreboder Lesson: 25 Word: 8

omnipresent om nuh PREZ unt

present everywhere at all times Christians believe in an omnipresent deity. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : omnipresence, omnipresently Lesson: 64 Word: 14

insularity in suh LAR eh tee

qualities of an island; narrow-mindedness of opinion The insularity of the president made it difficult to get a motion passed. Synonyms : Antonyms : broad-mindedness Derivatives : insularly, insular, insularize Lesson: 7 Word: 15

transparent trans PARE unt

quality of being able to be seen through, clear Glass is a transparent substance. Synonyms : limpid, translucent Antonyms : opaque Derivatives : transparently, transparentness, transparency Lesson: 10 Word: 23

steadfastness STED fas nes

quality of being fixed with little chance of moving or changing The steadfastness of her position not to sell her land is remarkable considering what she has been offered. Synonyms : resolution, staunchness Antonyms : irresolution Derivatives : steadfast, steadfastly Lesson: 23 Word: 24

contentious kun TEN shus

quarrelsome, stirring controversy My contentious child will not listen to any form of reason. Synonyms : bellicose, belligerent, pugnacious Antonyms : congenial; harmonious Derivatives : contentiously, contentiousness, contention Lesson: 4 Word: 6

nimble NIM bul

quick in movement or resourcefulness In the circus, tight-rope walkers and jugglers have to be very nimble. Synonyms : agile, spry Antonyms : slow in movement Derivatives : nimbler, nimblest, nimbleness, nimbly Lesson: 48 Word: 13

volatile VOL uh til

quickly changeable, easily vaporized Because of his volatile temper, one must use caution in dealing with him. Synonyms : Antonyms : static; unchangeable Derivatives : volatileness, volatility, volatilization, volatilizable, volatize Lesson: 4 Word: 25

transient TRAN shunt

quickly passing, fleeting The moment of happiness she enjoyed was merely transient; soon she was depressed again. Synonyms : ephemeral, evanescent, fugitive, transitory Antonyms : enduring; everlasting Derivatives : transience, transiently, transiency, transcience Lesson: 9 Word: 24

celerity suh LER uh tee

quickness (usually in accomplishing a task) Teachers like students who act with celerity in completing assignments. Synonyms : alacrity Antonyms : slowness Derivatives : celeritous, celerities Lesson: 58 Word: 5

taciturn TAS eh turn

quiet, not verbose A shy person is usually taciturn. Synonyms : reserved, reticent Antonyms : loquacious; talkative Derivatives : tacit, tacitly, tacitness, taciturnity, taciturnly Lesson: 1 Word: 25

rabid RAB id

raging, furious, fanatical Philadelphia is known for its rabid sports fans. Synonyms : Antonyms : calm Derivatives : rabic, rabidity, rabidly, rabidness, rabies, rabiform, rabious Lesson: 51 Word: 19

discursive deh SKUR siv

rambling, moving from one topic to another randomly His discursive speech was hard to follow. Synonyms : Antonyms : concise Derivatives : discursion, discursively, discursiveness Lesson: 9 Word: 4

incensed in SENSD

really mad The teacher was incensed when she found out that some of her trusted students had cheated on the exam. Synonyms : enraged, infuriated, angered Antonyms : pleased Derivatives : incense,incensing, incensement Lesson: 42 Word: 9

mutinous MYOOT un us

rebellious, unruly The crew grew mutinous because they thought they might sail right off the edge of the earth. Synonyms : Antonyms : agreeable; compatible Derivatives : mutiny, mutinously, mutinousness, mutinize, mutinies Lesson: 37 Word: 15

nascent NAS unt, NAY sunt

recently coming into existence The country was characterized by nascent revolutionary tendencies. Synonyms : Antonyms : established; old Derivatives : nascence, nascency Lesson: 53 Word: 13

fastidious fa STID ee us

reflecting a meticulous or demanding attitude, critical to an extreme He considered her fastidious because she was offended by insignificant mistakes or errors. Synonyms : finicky Antonyms : not meticulous Derivatives : fastidiously, fastidiousness, fastidium Lesson: 2 Word: 13

intransigent in TRAN seh junt

refusing to compromise Since both labor and management are intransigent on the issue of profit-sharing, there will be a strike. Synonyms : Antonyms : compromising; agreeable Derivatives : intransigence, intransigency, intransigentism, intransigently Lesson: 52 Word: 10

balky BALL kee

refusing to proceed in an expected direction When he refused to move he acted just like a balky mule. Synonyms : contrary, perverse, restive, wayward Antonyms : easily led Derivatives : balkily, balkiness, balkingly Lesson: 32 Word: 4

progenitor pro JEN eh tur

related ancestor; forefather George Washington is one of the progenitors of the United States. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : progenitorial, progenitorship, progeny Lesson: 58 Word: 17

aesthetic uhs THEH tic

relating or pertaining to a sense of beauty or art He is considered to have aesthetic tastes because he loves beauty and the arts. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : aesthete, aesthetical, aesthetically, aesthetician, aestheticism, aesthetics Lesson: 4 Word: 1

corporeal kor POR ee ul

relating to a physical, material body; tangible and palpable The lawyers asked the man to list all his corporeal properties, his material assets which are visible or tangible. Synonyms : bodily, material, substantial Antonyms : immaterial; not tangible Derivatives : corporealist, corporeality, corporealize, corporeally Lesson: 49 Word: 4

arboreal are BORE ee ul

relating to a tree or the inhabiting of a tree The jungle is home for many arboreal animals other than monkeys. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : arboreous, arborescent, arboretum, arborous Lesson: 47 Word: 2

infernal in FER nul

relating to hell It is not nice to wish that someone go to the infernal regions. Synonyms : hellish, diabolical, fiendish Antonyms : heavenly Derivatives : infernally, inferno Lesson: 40 Word: 13

rustic RUS tik

relating to the country The rustic cabin in the mountains was small but comfortable. Synonyms : rural, coarse Antonyms : urban; relating to the city Derivatives : rustical, rustically, rusticate, rustication, rusticator Lesson: 28 Word: 20

martial MAR shul

relating to war or a warrior The martial tendencies of that hostile country are a concern to the people of the United States. Synonyms : warlike Antonyms : Derivatives : martialism, martialist, martially, martialness Lesson: 48 Word: 12

import IM port

relative importance, significance The full import of today's events will not be realized for years. Synonyms : Antonyms : meaninglessness Derivatives : importance Lesson: 49 Word: 9

inexorable in EK sur uh bul

relentless, cannot be persuaded to change one's course of action The archeologist was inexorable in his pursuit of the buried city. Synonyms : inflexible, obdurate, adamant Antonyms : flexible; changeable; yielding Derivatives : inexorability, inexorableness, inexorably Lesson: 59 Word: 11

credible KRED uh bul

reliable and believable It is important for a person's words to be credible. Synonyms : Antonyms : unbelievable Derivatives : credibility, credibleness, credibly Lesson: 47 Word: 8

vestiges VES tij is

remnants, traces, remains The archaeologists were looking for vestiges of ancient Egyptian civilizations. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vestige, vestigial, vestigium Lesson: 48 Word: 24

compunction kum PUNGK shun

remorse, distress or anxiety over an anticipated action If you do not stop taking drugs, I will have no compunction about kicking you out of the house. Synonyms : contrition, penitence Antonyms : Derivatives : compunctionless, compunctious, compunctiously Lesson: 52 Word: 3

disinterment dis in TUR munt

removal from a grave or tomb The family signed a court order for the relative's disinterment. Synonyms : Antonyms : burial Derivatives : disinter Lesson: 49 Word: 7

abstracted ab STRAK ted

removed in thought from the immediate situation, lost in one's own mind The child, thinking of Christmas, had an abstracted look on his face. Synonyms : Antonyms : attentive Derivatives : abstractedly, abstractedness Lesson: 10 Word: 1

redundant reh DUN dunt

repetitious, superfluous She is boring because she is a rambling and redundant speaker. Synonyms : Antonyms : concise Derivatives : redundancy, redundance, redundantly Lesson: 36 Word: 18

abominable uh BOM uh nuh bul

repugnantly hateful; very unpleasant, detestable, loathsome The weather was abominable last week with temperatures reaching as high as 115 degrees. Synonyms : abhorrent, horrible, revolting, foul Antonyms : likable Derivatives : abominableness, abominably, abominate, abominated, abominating, abomination Lesson: 26 Word: 1

serpentine SUR pen teen

resembling a serpent, wily or tempting; diabolical The line of dancers moved and swayed in a serpentine manner. Synonyms : Antonyms : straight Derivatives : serpentinely, serpentiningly, serpentize Lesson: 57 Word: 19

pique PEEK

resentment, irritation After finding that he had been seeing other women, she showed her pique by not speaking to him. Synonyms : Antonyms : acceptance Derivatives : piqued, piquing Lesson: 27 Word: 16

staid STADE

reserved and upright in manner or behavior, sedate The staid and uninteresting old maid behaved with utmost decorum in all situations. Synonyms : earnest, grave, sober, solemn Antonyms : boisterous Derivatives : staidness Lesson: 41 Word: 19

immunity eh MYOO neh tee

resistance (usually to a disease) One's immunity to disease is lowered when one is fatigued. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of resistance Derivatives : immunities, immunist, immune, immuned, immunization, immunize, immunizing Lesson: 38 Word: 11

inertia in UR shuh

resistance to motion or action In order to move, a force must first overcome a body's initial inertia. Synonyms : Antonyms : disposition to action Derivatives : inert, inertial, inertion, inertness, inertly Lesson: 27 Word: 11

sonorous suh NOR us, SAN uh

resonant, producing a full and rich sound Orson Wells was known for his sonorous voice. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sonorant, sonoriferous, sonoriferously, sonority, sonorization, sonorously, sonorousness Lesson: 18 Word: 23

restitution res teh TOO shun

restoration of or compensation for something taken from a rightful owner He agreed to make restitution to his neighbor for the damage that his dog did to his neighbor's yard. Synonyms : redress, amends, reparation Antonyms : Derivatives : restitutive,restitutory Lesson: 50 Word: 18

reticence RET uh suns

restraint in speech, reluctance to speak A lawyer must have great reticence in discussing matters that could violate his client's rights. Synonyms : reserve, taciturnity Antonyms : candor Derivatives : reticency, reticent, reticently Lesson: 1 Word: 20

circumscribed SIR kum skribd

restricted or limited The triangle circumscribed the circle. Synonyms : Antonyms : unbounded Derivatives : circumscribe, circumscribing, circumscription, circumscriptive Lesson: 23 Word: 5

vindictive vin DIK tiv

revengeful, spiteful You should be more forgiving and less vindictive. Synonyms : Antonyms : loving; forgiving Derivatives : vindicated, vindication, vindicative, vindicator, vindicatory, vindictive, vindictively, vindictiveness Lesson: 12 Word: 25

suffrage SUF rij

right to vote Woman's suffrage was a movement and a cause at the beginning of the twentieth century. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of franchise Derivatives : suffragette, suffragettism, suffragism, suffragist Lesson: 10 Word: 21

ruffianism RUF ee un is um

rowdy or tough behavior The ruffianism of the boys in school did not go unnoticed by their angry principal. Synonyms : Antonyms : gentle behavior Derivatives : ruffian, ruffianish, ruffianize, ruffianly Lesson: 58 Word: 20

boorish BOOR ish

rude or insensitive; ill-mannered How could you get me a date with such a boorish person? Synonyms : churlish, clownish, loutish Antonyms : sophisticated; well-mannered Derivatives : boorishly, boorishness, boor Lesson: 22 Word: 3

despotic deh SPOT ik

ruling oppressively and absolutely; tyrannical Americans do not like despotic behavior. Synonyms : Antonyms : ruling democratically Derivatives : despotical, despotically, despotism, despotist, despotize, despot Lesson: 8 Word: 8

bucolic byoo KOL ik

rustic, rural, unsophisticated; pastoral He yearned for a simple, bucolic life. Synonyms : georgic Antonyms : urban; sophisticated Derivatives : bucolical, bucolically Lesson: 51 Word: 4

caustic KAW stik

sarcastically biting, acrid Critics are known for their caustic remarks about movies that they do not like. Synonyms : mordant, scathing Antonyms : kind; gentle Derivatives : caustically, causticity Lesson: 24 Word: 4

reserve reh ZURV

self-restraint He showed a lot of reserve in dealing with the harsh critics at the meeting. Synonyms : reticence Antonyms : lack of restraint Derivatives : reserved, reservedly, reserveless Lesson: 32 Word: 23

lurid LOOR id

sensational, gruesome and causing shock or horror The tabloid published every lurid detail of the ax murder. Synonyms : grisly, ghastly, macabre Antonyms : Derivatives : luridity, luridness Lesson: 39 Word: 19

pungent PUN junt

sharp or irritating to the taste or smell, acrid There was a pungent odor in the stockyard. Synonyms : piquant, poignant, racy Antonyms : sweet; pleasant Derivatives : pungence, pungency, pungently Lesson: 19 Word: 18

tart TART

sharp or sour taste I like a tart mustard on my hot dog. Synonyms : Antonyms : sweet Derivatives : tartly, tartish Lesson: 53 Word: 22

asperity uh SPARE uh tee

sharpness (as in temper); harshness These remarks spoken with asperity stung the boys to whom they were directed. Synonyms : severity, raucousness Antonyms : Derivatives : asperities Lesson: 52 Word: 1

acuity uh KEW uh tee

sharpness of perception His acuity in determining the facts made him a good judge. Synonyms : Antonyms : denseness Derivatives : acuities, acute, acuteness Lesson: 27 Word: 3

refuge REF yooj

shelter or place of protection Reservations were supposed to be places of refuge for Indians. Synonyms : Antonyms : dangerous place Derivatives : refuges Lesson: 57 Word: 17

lustrous LUS trus

shining or gleaming without sparkling That gem is valuable because of its lustrous glow. Synonyms : bright, brilliant, luminous, radiant Antonyms : dull Derivatives : lustrously, lustrousness Lesson: 62 Word: 12

luminous LOO muh nus

shining, full of light The most luminous thing visible from Earth is the sun. Synonyms : bright, brilliant, lustrous Antonyms : dark; dull Derivatives : luminosity,luminously, luminousness Lesson: 27 Word: 13

irreverent eh REV ur unt

showing a lack of respect It is irreverent to wear a hat inside of a church. Synonyms : disrespectful Antonyms : respectful Derivatives : irreverence,irreverently Lesson: 42 Word: 13

profane pruh FANE

showing contempt toward sacred things Profane language will not be tolerated on the tennis court. Synonyms : Antonyms : holy Derivatives : profanation, profanatory, profanely, profaneness, profaner, profanity Lesson: 14 Word: 21

effervescent ef ur VES unt

showing high spirits She put me in a good mood because she was always so effervescent. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : effervesce, effervescence, effervescently, effervescingly, effervescible Lesson: 7 Word: 9

stolid STOL id

showing little emotion He always has a stolid appearance at the poker table. Synonyms : apathetic, phlegmatic, stoic Antonyms : emotional Derivatives : stolidly, stolidity Lesson: 17 Word: 23

penitent PEN eh tunt

showing or feeling regret for wrongdoing, repentant He became penitent when he realized that his prank resulted in serious injury. Synonyms : compunctual, contrite, remorseful Antonyms : unrepentant Derivatives : penitence, penitency, penitential Lesson: 5 Word: 24

opalescent oh puh LES unt

showing or reflecting an iridescent light She was even more beautiful against the opalescent sky. Synonyms : Antonyms : dull Derivatives : opalescence, opalescently, opalesque Lesson: 61 Word: 15

ostentatious os ten TAY shus

showy, pretentious The ostentatious socialite wore her mink fur coat even during the warmest days of August. Synonyms : pompous Antonyms : modest Derivatives : ostentation, ostentate, ostentatiously, ostentatiousness, ostentative Lesson: 1 Word: 17

astute uh STOOT

shrewd, perspicacious, perceptive One must be astute to do a geometry proof. Synonyms : sagacious Antonyms : undiscerning Derivatives : astutely, astuteness Lesson: 18 Word: 4

musty MUS tee

smelling of damp or decay, malodorous The old house was pervaded by an offensive, musty odor. Synonyms : Antonyms : fragrant Derivatives : mustily, mustiness Lesson: 40 Word: 18

fluid (adj.) FLOO id

smooth and effortless Most good golfers have a very fluid swing. Synonyms : Antonyms : jerky Derivatives : fluidify, fluidity, fluidization, fluidize Lesson: 49 Word: 8

taut TAUT

tightly drawn, having no slack As the convicted man fell from the scaffold, the rope became taut around his neck. Synonyms : tight Antonyms : Derivatives : tautly, tautness, tauten Lesson: 42 Word: 21

equivocate eh KWIV uh kate

to attempt to lie, to mislead, or to hide the truth Tell the truth and do not attempt to equivocate. Synonyms : palter, prevaricate Antonyms : to tell the truth Derivatives : equivocal, equivocacy, equivocality, equivocally, equivocalness, equivocation, equivocator, equivocity Lesson: 14 Word: 11

commission kuh MISH un

to authorize or order; to send on a mission; to give a commission to The owners commissioned a painting for the hotel's lobby. Synonyms : Antonyms : to refuse to authorize Derivatives : commissional, commissive, commissively, commissionaire, commissioned, commissioner Lesson: 50 Word: 3

eschew es CHOO

to avoid or to shun He eschewed situations in which there would be drinking. Synonyms : Antonyms : to confront Derivatives : eschewed, eschewal Lesson: 34 Word: 8

rue ROO

to be sorry for, to regret He will rue the day that he tangles with me. Synonyms : Antonyms : to consider happily Derivatives : rueful, ruefully, ruefulness, rues Lesson: 16 Word: 21

warp WARP

to become bent or twisted The wood was old and warped by water and wind. Synonyms : Antonyms : to straighten Derivatives : warped, warpage Lesson: 56 Word: 25

parch PARCH

to become dry from heat, to shrivel from heat The fruit was parched from staying in the sun so long. Synonyms : Antonyms : to refresh Derivatives : parched, parchedly, parchedness, parches, parching Lesson: 18 Word: 18

materialize muh TEER ee uh lize

to become real, to appear, to take a form or shape Our problems materialized after Dad lost his job. Synonyms : Antonyms : to fade away Derivatives : materialization, materializer, materializes, materialized, materializing Lesson: 64 Word: 12

importune im por TOON

to beg in earnest Although he importuned for one more chance, his former boss would not rehire him. Synonyms : entreat, implore, supplicate, adjure Antonyms : Derivatives : importuned, importuning, importunely, importuner, importunity, importunacy, importunate, importunateness Lesson: 33 Word: 10

denigrate DEN uh grate

to belittle, to run down, to deny the importance of something To denigrate someone's reputation merely on hearsay is wrong. Synonyms : asperse, calumniate, defame, malign, slander, traduce, vilify Antonyms : to praise; to laud; to acclaim Derivatives : denigration, denigrator, denigratory, denigrated, denigrating Lesson: 33 Word: 3

reproach reh PROCH

to blame for something; a disgrace Her conduct was so good that it was beyond reproach. Synonyms : admonish, castigate, chasten, chastise, chide, rebuke, Antonyms : to praise; accolade Derivatives : reproachable, reproachful, reproachfully, reproachfulness, reproachingly Lesson: 24 Word: 19

impute im PYOOT

to blame or to charge His bizarre actions have been imputed to mental derangement. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : imputability, imputable, imputableness, imputably, imputation, imputational, imputatively, imputativeness Lesson: 54 Word: 8

censure SEN shur

to blame or to condemn The congressman was censured for taking a bribe. Synonyms : denounce, reprehend, reprobate (verb) Antonyms : to praise Derivatives : censured, censuring, censurer, censures Lesson: 19 Word: 4

stymie STY mee

to block, to present an obstacle After hitting the golf ball into the rough, I could not shoot directly at the hole as I was stymied by a tree. Synonyms : Antonyms : to assist Derivatives : stymied, stymieing, stymies Lesson: 25 Word: 19

seethe SEETH

to boil , to be agitated The nation seethed with anger when the terrorists took the men as hostages. Synonyms : Antonyms : to be at peace Derivatives : seething, seethingly Lesson: 52 Word: 21

rupture RUP chur

to break apart, to burst The rupture of the appendix is a life-threatening situation. Synonyms : Antonyms : to repair; to mend Derivatives : ruptured, rupturing Lesson: 17 Word: 21

sunder SUN dur

to break or to force apart; to become parted or disunited The concerned parents attempted to sunder the girl's relationship with the violent young man. Synonyms : separate, sever, divorce Antonyms : to fuse Derivatives : sundered, sundering, sunders Lesson: 65 Word: 23

induce in DOOS, in DYOOS

to bring on or to bring about His personality changes were induced by drugs. Synonyms : cause, effect, influence, persuade, prevail Antonyms : to impede Derivatives : induced, inducing, inducement, inducer Lesson: 9 Word: 11

elicit eh LIS it

to bring out a response, to evoke I would like to elicit your participation in the blood drive. Synonyms : educe, extort, extract Antonyms : to inhibit Derivatives : elicitable, elicitate, elicitation Lesson: 16 Word: 11

subjugate SUB juh gate

to bring under one's control It was the intent of the dictator to subjugate all the people in the land and control them. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : subjugable, subjugation, subjugator Lesson: 36 Word: 21

summon SUM un

to call together, to send for or to request to appear I am frightened because I have been summoned to the principal's office. Synonyms : convene, convoke, muster Antonyms : to turn away Derivatives : summoner, summons Lesson: 10 Word: 22

rescind reh SEND

to cancel He said that he will have to rescind his offer if he does not hear from us by Tuesday. Synonyms : Antonyms : to restore Derivatives : rescindable, rescinder, resindment Lesson: 31 Word: 20

eclipse eh KLIPS

to cast a shadow upon; to darken; to make dim or obscure by comparison President Bush's successes in foreign policy were eclipsed by domestic failures in the public eye. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make prominent or obvious Derivatives : eclipsed, eclipsing, ecliptic, ecliptically, ecliptical Lesson: 44 Word: 8

slough SLUF

to cast off He sloughs off criticism like water off a duck's back. Synonyms : Antonyms : to grasp; to hold tenaciously Derivatives : sloughs, sloughy Lesson: 65 Word: 22

fester FES tur

to cause increased poisoning, to inflame or to corrupt The wound will fester if it is not given some medical attention. Synonyms : Antonyms : to heal Derivatives : festered, festering Lesson: 41 Word: 7

grate GRATE

to cause irritation Her acrimonious comments grate on my nerves. Synonyms : Antonyms : to soothe Derivatives : grated, grating, grater Lesson: 27 Word: 10

nullify NUL eh fie

to cause not to be in effect, to negate I am seeking to nullify the contract because he has not complied with it. Synonyms : abrogate, annul, invalidate Antonyms : to make effective Derivatives : nullified, nullifying, nullification, nullificationist, nullificator, nullifier Lesson: 3 Word: 18

confound kon FOUND

to cause one to become confused I am confounded by the tax forms of the IRS. Synonyms : Antonyms : to distinguish between Derivatives : confounded, confoundedly, confounding, confounds Lesson: 36 Word: 5

mitigate MIT uh gate

to cause to become less harsh or hostile; to make less severe He apologized in order to mitigate her dislike for him. Synonyms : allay, alleviate, assuage, lighten Antonyms : to intensify; to aggravate Derivatives : mitigation, mitigatedly, mitigative, mitigator, mitigatory Lesson: 3 Word: 17

unnerve un NURV

to cause to lose composure I became unnerved when he started talking badly about my mother. Synonyms : Antonyms : to strengthen Derivatives : unnerving, unnerves Lesson: 54 Word: 23

precipitate preh SIP eh tate

to cause to speedily occur, to throw headlong Coming home late at my house will always precipitate a fight. Synonyms : Antonyms : to delay Derivatives : precipitation, precipitancy, precipitately, precipitator, precipitous Lesson: 19 Word: 17

engender en JEN der

to cause, to produce, to create His angry words engendered strife in his relationship with his wife. Synonyms : Antonyms : to squelch Derivatives : engendered, engenderer, engenders, engendering Lesson: 1 Word: 11

admonish ad MAH nish

to caution, to advise, or to counsel against something The teacher admonished him about excessively loud noise. Synonyms : warn, rebuke, censure, notify, jog, apprise, reprove, scold Antonyms : to condone; to praise Derivatives : admonisher, admonishingly, admonishment, admonition, admonished Lesson: 17 Word: 2

desist deh ZIST, deh SIST

to cease from doing something The soldiers were ordered to cease and desist, or else be fired upon. Synonyms : Antonyms : to go on Derivatives : desistance, desition, desisted, desisting Lesson: 64 Word: 4

knotty NOT ee

so complicated that it can probably not be solved; full of knots A contest's knotty problems leave contestants disheartened. The knotty trees added an eerie feeling to the night. Synonyms : abstruse, complex, intricate, recondite Antonyms : easy to solve; uncomplicated Derivatives : knotted, knotter, knottily Lesson: 38 Word: 13

gregarious greh GAR ee us

sociable and outgoing He became much more gregarious after he developed an interest in girls. Synonyms : Antonyms : shy; reserved Derivatives : gregariously, gregariousness Lesson: 2 Word: 15

addendum uh DEN dum

something added, usually to a book The next edition of the book will have an addendum containing new information. Synonyms : addition, supplement Antonyms : Derivatives : addend, addenda, addendums Lesson: 34 Word: 1

ossify OS uh fie

to change or to harden into bone, to be rigidly conventional This particular type of tree ossifies with age. Synonyms : Antonyms : to soften Derivatives : ossified, ossifying, ossifier, ossificatory, ossification Lesson: 45 Word: 16

onus OH nus

something distasteful to bear that involves considerable difficulty The job of caring for the elderly will become the onus of the younger generation. Synonyms : burden; blame; stigma Antonyms : easy and pleasant task Derivatives : onuses, onus probandi (burden of proof) Lesson: 54 Word: 14

potable POE tuh bul

something drinkable The show "Jeopardy" used to have a category called "Pot & Potables" that concerned all kinds of drinks. Synonyms : Antonyms : unfit to drink Derivatives : potability, potableness Lesson: 36 Word: 17

vestigial veh STIJ ee ul

something in an underdeveloped form Some animals still have vestigial tails, although they are hardly noticeable. Synonyms : Antonyms : fully developed Derivatives : vestigially Lesson: 26 Word: 25

adjunct AD junkt

something joined or added to a thing but not necessarily a part of it An adjunct professor is one who is associated with a college faculty only in a temporary or auxiliary manner. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : adjunctive, adjunctively Lesson: 19 Word: 1

picayune pik ee YOON

something of very small value, petty The judge grew tired of the lawyer's picayune objections. Synonyms : Antonyms : significant Derivatives : picayunish Lesson: 52 Word: 16

vulgarity vul GAR eh tee

something offensive to good taste and refinement She chose to ignore the vulgarity of his crude remark. Synonyms : coarseness, grossness, obscenity, ribaldness Antonyms : refinement Derivatives : vulgar, vulgarian, vulgarism, vulgarization, vulgarize, vulgarizer Lesson: 15 Word: 25

protrusion pro TROO zhun

something sticking out A large protrusion on his head was the result of being hit by the bat. Synonyms : Antonyms : indentation Derivatives : protusive, protusively, protusiveness Lesson: 28 Word: 17

pendant PEN dunt

something suspended, hanging down from something Her pendant earrings were in the shape of oil derricks. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : pendants Lesson: 63 Word: 15

indict in DITE

to charge or to accuse If the Grand Jury indicts the man, he will be tried for murder. Synonyms : incriminate, blame, impeach Antonyms : to absolve, to exonerate, to acquit Derivatives : indicter, indictor, indictable, indictably, indictment Lesson: 32 Word: 14

bilk BILK

to cheat The con artist bilked the elderly lady out of her life savings. Synonyms : Antonyms : to deal honestly with Derivatives : bilker, bilked Lesson: 46 Word: 2

chortle CHORE tul

to chuckle or to laugh from extreme happiness The little child began to chortle when he saw the Disney characters on the screen. Synonyms : Antonyms : to sneer Derivatives : chortler, chortled, chortling Lesson: 47 Word: 6

exculpate EK skul pate

to clear from blame or guilt The governor was petitioned to exculpate the prisoner. Synonyms : absolve, acquit, exonerate, vindicate Antonyms : to convict Derivatives : exculpation, exculpatory Lesson: 30 Word: 9

scale SKALE

to climb up or over Who was the first woman to scale Mt. Everest? Synonyms : Antonyms : to climb down Derivatives : scaled, scaling Lesson: 41 Word: 18

amass uh MASS

to collect, to gather, to accumulate He amassed a fortune as a result of the oil strike. Synonyms : Antonyms : to loose; to scatter Derivatives : amassable, amasser, amassment, amassed Lesson: 16 Word: 2

exude ig ZOOD

to come out gradually in drops through pores or small openings Small beads of sweat were exuding from his forehead. Synonyms : ooze out; emit Antonyms : to absorb Derivatives : exuded, exuding, exudes Lesson: 64 Word: 6

solace SOL is

to comfort or to cheer The Red Cross attempted to solace the flood victims. Synonyms : soothe, mitigate, assuage Antonyms : to deride; to harass Derivatives : solaceful, solacement, solacer, solaced, solacing Lesson: 55 Word: 20

contest kun TEST

to compete, to attempt to disprove I contest your statement about his lack of courage. Synonyms : Antonyms : to accept without dispute Derivatives : contested, contesting, contests Lesson: 28 Word: 7

concomitant kon KOM uh tunt

something that accompanies or exists concurrently with something else The Miss America Pageant and its concomitant events provide the beauties with many new experiences. Synonyms : Antonyms : unassociated Derivatives : concomitance, concomitancy, concomitantly Lesson: 54 Word: 3

raze RAZE

to completely destroy Atomic war will raze many cities. Synonyms : Antonyms : to construct Derivatives : razed, razing Lesson: 12 Word: 19

focus FOE kus

to concentrate We need to focus our attention on today's topic and not on extraneous matters. Synonyms : Antonyms : to scatter Derivatives : focused, focusing, focuses, focusable, focuser, focusless Lesson: 32 Word: 12

rail at RAIL at

to condemn or to attack with abusive language Texas Congressmen will rail at any attempt to pass a bill that would be detrimental to the oil industry. Synonyms : berate, revile, upbraid, vituperation Antonyms : to compliment Derivatives : railed, railing Lesson: 52 Word: 18

countenance KOUN tuh nuns

to condone or to give approval I do not countenance any form of cheating. Synonyms : approve, sanction, endorse Antonyms : to disapprove Derivatives : countenanced, countenancing, countenancer Lesson: 25 Word: 6

bemuse buh MUZE

to confuse or to bewilder He did not intend to bemuse the class with his ambiguous remarks. Synonyms : Antonyms : to enlighten Derivatives : bemused Lesson: 35 Word: 2

paradoxical pair uh DOKS uh kul

something that appears false or contradictory but is actually correct It is paradoxical that a man from the South, Lyndon Johnson, led the fight for the passage of a civil rights bill. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : paradoxicality, paradoxicalness, paradoxology, paradoxality Lesson: 6 Word: 20

contaminant kun TAM uh nunt

something that causes impurity; something that defiles or pollutes The polluted water contained many dangerous contaminants. Synonyms : pollutant Antonyms : disinfectant Derivatives : contaminate, contaminated, contaminating, contaminator, contamination Lesson: 21 Word: 6

precursor preh KUR sur

something that comes before, forerunner A good education is usually a precursor to finding a good job. Synonyms : harbinger, herald Antonyms : descendant Derivatives : precurse, precursive, precursory Lesson: 25 Word: 14

derivative deh RIV uh tiv

something that comes from another thing The word "denotative" is a derivative of the word "denote." Synonyms : Antonyms : original Derivatives : derive, derivable, derivability, derivate, derivately, derivational, derivationist, derivatist Lesson: 63 Word: 5

deterrent deh TUR unt

something that discourages or keeps something from happening Some think that the death penalty is a deterrent to crime. Synonyms : Antonyms : incentive Derivatives : deterrently, deterrence, deterring, deter Lesson: 49 Word: 6

presage PRES ij

something that foreshadows a future event; foreknowledge of the future Many view a rainbow as a presage of good fortune. Synonyms : omen, foreboding, presentiment, prediction Antonyms : Derivatives : presageful, presagement, presager, presaging, presagingly, presagious Lesson: 32 Word: 21

fortuitous fore TOO eh tus

something that happens by accident or chance (usually good) Being picked first in the lottery is a fortuitous experience. Synonyms : Antonyms : predetermined Derivatives : fortuitously, fortuitousness, fortuity Lesson: 18 Word: 11

concentration kon sun TRAY shun

something that has been drawn together There is a concentration of insects on that rotten log. Synonyms : Antonyms : dispersion Derivatives : concentrations Lesson: 53 Word: 4

porous PORE us

something that permits the passage of substances through pores The porous material did not keep the rain off of us. Synonyms : Antonyms : impermeable Derivatives : porosity, porose, porosis, porotic Lesson: 18 Word: 19

antidote AN teh dote

something that relieves the effects of poison A snake bite need not be deadly, as long as one can get an antidote quickly. Synonyms : Antonyms : poison Derivatives : antidotal Lesson: 11 Word: 3

emollient eh MOL yunt

something that soothes or softens Lotions are emollients used to ease the pain of sunburn. Synonyms : Antonyms : irritant Derivatives : emollience,emollition Lesson: 45 Word: 7

soporific sop uh RIF ik

something that tends to cause sleep and to dull awareness or alertness Quiet music late at night is soporific. Synonyms : Antonyms : exciting Derivatives : soporiferous, soporiferously, soporiferousness, soporifical, soporifically Lesson: 13 Word: 23

wooden WOOD un

stiff, clumsy The dancer's wooden movements quickly eliminated her from the troupe. Synonyms : Antonyms : graceful Derivatives : Lesson: 52 Word: 25

dogmatic dog MAT ik

strongly opinionated in an unwarranted manner He was so dogmatic that having an intelligent discussion with him was impossible. Synonyms : dictatorial, doctrinaire, magisterial, oracular Antonyms : unopinionated; wishy-washy Derivatives : dogmatician, dogmatical, dogmatically, dogmaticalness, dogmaticism, dogmatism, dogmatize, Lesson: 4 Word: 11

buffeted BUFF et id

struck repeatedly, battered The winds buffeted the seamen all last night. Synonyms : Antonyms : assuaged; soothed Derivatives : buffet, buffeting, buffeter, buffets Lesson: 52 Word: 2

pertinacity pur tuh NAS eh tee

stubborn persistence or act of refusing to yield on an opinion or belief Because of his pertinacity, the fighter was able to go the entire twelve rounds and win the fight. Synonyms : Antonyms : vacillation Derivatives : pertinacious, pertinaciously, pertinaciousness Lesson: 44 Word: 16

intractable in TRAK tuh bul

stubborn, difficult to manage The intractable child was a discipline problem in every class. Synonyms : headstrong, recalcitrant, refractory, unruly, willful Antonyms : manageable; agreeable Derivatives : intractability, intractableness, intractably Lesson: 9 Word: 12

mired MYRD

stuck or entangled Teachers seem to be mired with excessive paperwork. Synonyms : Antonyms : unhampered Derivatives : mire Lesson: 38 Word: 15

philology feh LOL uh jee

study of literature, especially language used in literature The study of philology is common among English majors. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : philologer, philological, philologian, philologaster, philologastry, philologically, philologist, philologize Lesson: 48 Word: 15

aversion uh VER shun

strong disinclination, disliking I have an aversion to getting married. Synonyms : hesitance, loathing, reluctance Antonyms : inclination Derivatives : averseness, aversely, averse Lesson: 1 Word: 5

jaunty JON tee

stylish and lively in manner or appearance The woman walked with a jaunty step that gave clear evidence to her sprightly personality. Synonyms : Antonyms : depressed Derivatives : jauntily, jauntiness, jauntingly Lesson: 40 Word: 14

topicality top uh KAL eh tee

subject of current interest Around April 15 each year, paying taxes is an item of topicality. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : topic, topical, topically Lesson: 43 Word: 24

placebo pluh SEE boe

substance with no medication given to humor a patient Sugar pills are sometimes a placebo given to a hypochondriac. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : placebos Lesson: 55 Word: 13

euphemism YOO fuh miz um

substitution of an inoffensive term for one that is offensive People frequently use a euphemism for the word "died." They commonly say someone "passed away." Synonyms : Antonyms : coarse expression Derivatives : euphemistic, euphemious, euphemiously, euphemistically, euphemize, euphemizer Lesson: 4 Word: 14

dour DOUR, DOW ur

sullen, stern, harsh His dour behavior was caused by the rain washing out his golf game. Synonyms : Antonyms : cheerful in appearance Derivatives : dourly, dourer, dourest Lesson: 15 Word: 9

aggregate AG ruh git

sum total, whole amount Although difficult to mine, the aggregate of mineral resources in Alaska are immense. Synonyms : Antonyms : partial amount Derivatives : aggregative, aggregately, aggregation, aggregated, aggregating Lesson: 21 Word: 1

plethora PLETH ur uh

superabundance, excessive amount She offered a plethora of excuses for failing French, none of which were acceptable. Synonyms : Antonyms : scarcity Derivatives : plethoric Lesson: 28 Word: 15

cursory KUR suh ree

superficial, casual, hastily done He gave only cursory consideration to my suggestion. Synonyms : Antonyms : meticulous Derivatives : cursorily, cursoriness Lesson: 6 Word: 7

preeminence pree EM uh nuns

superiority to all others Receiving a Nobel prize signifies preeminence in a field. Synonyms : Antonyms : inferiority Derivatives : preeminent, preeminency, preeminently Lesson: 41 Word: 15

advocacy AD vuh cuh see

support of an idea or cause The nominee's advocacy of higher taxes may have cost him the election. Synonyms : Antonyms : opposition Derivatives : advocate, advocator, advocatory, advocated, advocating Lesson: 51 Word: 1

ruminate ROO muh nate

to consider for a long time at a slow pace, to ponder We will have to go elsewhere if you ruminate about your decision for a long period. Synonyms : meditate, muse, ponder Antonyms : to consider fleetingly Derivatives : ruminatingly, ruminator, ruminative, ruminant, ruminantly Lesson: 40 Word: 24

compress kum PRESS

to contract, to reduce in size or volume Farmers now have machines to compress hay into bales. Synonyms : condense, constrict, contract, deflate Antonyms : to expand Derivatives : compressible, compressibility, compressed, compression, compressive, compressor, compressively, Lesson: 30 Word: 5

belie buh LIE

to contradict, to give a false impression Her first words appeared to belie all the wonderful things I had heard about her. Synonyms : Antonyms : to support; to agree with Derivatives : belied, belying, belier Lesson: 4 Word: 5

emend eh MEND

to correct (usually by a critic) The newspaper had to emend the incorrect statement printed in the paper. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : emendable, emendate, emendation, emendator, emendatory, emends, emending, emended Lesson: 21 Word: 10

enumerate eh NOO muh rate

to count one by one In his summation, my lawyer enumerated all of the reasons why I should receive a verdict of "not guilty." Synonyms : Antonyms : to group Derivatives : enumeration, enumerative, enumerator Lesson: 27 Word: 9

ford FORD

to cross a body of water by wading In order to get to the other side, we have to ford the stream. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : forded, fording, fords, fordless Lesson: 53 Word: 9

sever SEV ur

to cut or to separate I decided to sever my relationship with that organization when I found out the true nature of it. Synonyms : divorce, sunder Antonyms : to connect Derivatives : severs, severed, severing, severability, severance, severable Lesson: 35 Word: 21

defraud deh FRAWD

to deal with deceptively Some defense contractors have defrauded the government out of millions of dollars. Synonyms : cozen, swindle Antonyms : to deal with honestly Derivatives : defrauded, defrauding, defraudation, defraudment Lesson: 44 Word: 6

beguile buh GUYL

to deceive, to mislead, to persuade with charm We sometimes allow ourselves to be beguiled by flatterers. Synonyms : delude Antonyms : to enlighten Derivatives : beguiled, beguiling, beguilement, beguiler Lesson: 39 Word: 3

garnish GAR nish

to decorate Parsley is used to garnish many dinners. Synonyms : adorn, deck, embellish, ornament Antonyms : to remove decoration Derivatives : garnished, garnishing, garnishes, garnishable, garnishment Lesson: 46 Word: 9

embellish em BEL ish

to decorate, to make beautiful with ornamentation He would embellish his narratives with anecdotes about famous people. Synonyms : deck, garnish, ornament, adorn Antonyms : to abbreviate Derivatives : embellisher, embellishment Lesson: 1 Word: 10

wane WANE

to decrease in size, degree, or power The bodybuilder's strength began to wane when he quit lifting weights. Synonyms : abate, subside, ebb Antonyms : to grow stronger Derivatives : waned, waning Lesson: 64 Word: 24

taper TAY pur

to decrease in thickness or width The intensity of the pain will taper off as time goes on. Some shirts are tapered at the bottom. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make wider Derivatives : tapered, tapering Lesson: 19 Word: 24

consecrate KON suh krate

to dedicate or to declare sacred Ministers customarily consecrate their lives to serving God. Synonyms : devote, hallow Antonyms : to profane Derivatives : consecrated, consecrating, consecratory, consecrator, consecration Lesson: 59 Word: 4

champion CHAM pee un

to defend or to support The senator championed the cause of the homeless. Synonyms : Antonyms : to persecute Derivatives : championship, championless, championlike, championed, championing Lesson: 30 Word: 4

procrastinate pro KRAS tuh nate

to defer action; to delay We try not to procrastinate when asked to do a job. Synonyms : prolong, postpone Antonyms : Derivatives : procrastinated, procrastinating, procrastinatingly, procrastinatively, procrastination, procrastinative, Lesson: 10 Word: 19

parry PAIR ee

to deflect or to ward off a blow The champion boxer won the match because he was able to parry his opponent's blows so successfully. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : parried, parrying Lesson: 19 Word: 16

abase uh BAYS

to degrade, to humiliate The bitter woman deliberately set out to abase her husband in public. Synonyms : corrupt, debase, debauch, demean, deprave, vitiate, pervert Antonyms : to exalt Derivatives : abasement, abaser, abased, abasing Lesson: 24 Word: 1

disparage deh SPAR ij

to degrade, to speak of someone or something in a derogatory manner His disparaging remarks about me caused the committee to give the job to another person. Synonyms : belittle, decry, deprecate Antonyms : to praise profusely Derivatives : disparagement, disparager, disparagingly Lesson: 1 Word: 8

tarry TARE ee

to delay in coming or going, to linger Please do not tarry; I want you to be here on time. Synonyms : Antonyms : to depart promptly Derivatives : tarriness, tarried, tarries Lesson: 38 Word: 22

proscribe pro SCRIBE

to denounce or to condemn, to forbid We will proscribe anyone who comes to the rally with the opponent's campaign buttons on his shirt. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : proscript, proscription, proscriptive, proscriptiveness, proscriptively Lesson: 62 Word: 17

bewail buh WALE

to deplore, to express deep sorrow He bewailed the passing of his grandfather whom he loved and admired. Synonyms : bemoan, lament Antonyms : to rejoice in Derivatives : bewailed, bewailing Lesson: 44 Word: 3

defoliate dee FOE lee ate

to deprive of leaves The chemical Agent Orange was used in Vietnam to defoliate the trees so the enemy could be found. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : defoliant, defoliated, defoliating, defoliator Lesson: 28 Word: 8

unfrock un FROK

to deprive the right to be in a profession (usually applies to a priest) The priest was unfrocked as a result of his moral depravity. Synonyms : Antonyms : to decorate Derivatives : unfrocked Lesson: 30 Word: 25

berate buh RATE

to engage in intense and long scolding or condemnation That teacher will berate any student who is constantly tardy. Synonyms : upbraid, rail, vituperate Antonyms : to praise Derivatives : berated, berating, berates Lesson: 58 Word: 3

matriculate muh TRIK yuh late

to enroll or to admit to membership by enrolling, esp. in a college Though it took hours for the enrollment process, this young man has finally been matriculated. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : matriculated, matriculating, matriculation, matriculator Lesson: 52 Word: 12

enmesh en MESH

to entangle They became enmeshed in an awful argument. Synonyms : Antonyms : to free; to release Derivatives : enmeshed, enmeshment Lesson: 53 Word: 7

embroil em BROIL

to entangle, to throw into confusion or strife The senators are embroiled in an argument over raising taxes. Synonyms : Antonyms : to unhamper; to free Derivatives : embroiled, embroiling, embroiler, embroilment, embroils Lesson: 20 Word: 9

efface eh FASE

to erase, to wear away The date on the coin has been effaced. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make conspicuous Derivatives : effaceable, effacement, effacer Lesson: 5 Word: 9

ostracize OS truh size

to exclude by general consent from society or privileges Her friends ostracized her after her husband's arrest. Synonyms : exile, disenfranchise, excommunicate Antonyms : to accept; to condone Derivatives : ostracized, ostracizing, ostracization, ostracizable, ostracizer Lesson: 33 Word: 14

distend deh STEND

to expand, to swell If a balloon is distended too much, it will break. Synonyms : amplify, dilate, inflate Antonyms : to contract Derivatives : distended, distendedly, distendedness, distensibility, distensible, distensile, distension, distention, distensive Lesson: 11 Word: 9

exorcise EK sor size

to expel an evil spirit, to get rid of something troublesome I am going to try to exorcise all negative thoughts from my mind. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : exorcisation, exorcise, exorcism, exorcismal, exorcisory, exorcist, exorcistate, exorcistical Lesson: 17 Word: 10

explicate EK spluh kate

to explain, to clarify the meaning He could not explicate the actions of his son. Synonyms : elucidate, expound Antonyms : to fail to clarify Derivatives : explication, explicative, explicator, explicatory Lesson: 35 Word: 7

debunk deh BUNGK

to expose the falseness or hypocrisy of something The charlatan was quickly debunked by the perceptive doctor. Synonyms : Antonyms : to cover up; to conceal Derivatives : debunker, debunkers, debunked, debunking Lesson: 17 Word: 7

utter UT ur

to express by speaking The teacher told me not to utter another word. Synonyms : Antonyms : to leave unspoken Derivatives : utters, uttered, uttering, utterance Lesson: 62 Word: 25

rhapsodize RAP suh dize

to express in an overly enthusiastic manner He felt his Super Bowl trip was the greatest thing since the wheel and rhapsodized about it for weeks. Synonyms : Antonyms : to drone Derivatives : rhapsodist, rhapsodic, rhapsodically, rhapsodical, rhapsodistic Lesson: 53 Word: 18

commiserate kuh MIZ uh rate

to express sympathy or pity I commiserated with the family about their loss. Synonyms : Antonyms : to remain aloof Derivatives : commiserated, commiserating, commiseration, commiseratively, commiserative Lesson: 24 Word: 5

quench KWENCH

to extinguish, to put out; to relieve with liquid He quenched the hot coals in the barbecue pit with water. Synonyms : Antonyms : to stir up Derivatives : quencher, quenched, quenching, quenchable, quenchableness Lesson: 30 Word: 20

tether TETH ur

to fasten or to confine as with a rope The man was tethered to the wall with chains. Synonyms : Antonyms : to free Derivatives : tethered, tethering Lesson: 60 Word: 23

ascertain as sur TANE

to find out definitely; to determine The detective attempted to ascertain the truth through his questioning of the suspect. Synonyms : learn Antonyms : Derivatives : ascertainable, ascertainableness, ascertainably, ascertainer, ascertainment, ascertained Lesson: 11 Word: 4

yoke (verb) YOKE

to fit or to join with a harness; to connect or to join together Our mule does not like it when we yoke it to the harness. Synonyms : couple Antonyms : to uncouple Derivatives : yoked, yoking, yokeless Lesson: 53 Word: 25

entrench en TRENCH

to fix firmly; to encroach These formulas should be firmly entrenched in your mind before the test. Synonyms : Antonyms : to disestablish Derivatives : entrenched, entrenchment Lesson: 52 Word: 7

inundate IN un date

to flood, to overflow The television station was inundated with phone calls when the basketball game was interrupted. Synonyms : Antonyms : to drain Derivatives : inundable, inundant, inundation, inundator, inundatory Lesson: 10 Word: 14

exonerate ig ZON uh rate

to free from blame, obligation, or responsibility; to exculpate I need your testimony to exonerate me from this charge. Synonyms : absolve, acquit, vindicate Antonyms : to convict Derivatives : exoneration, exonerated, exoner Lesson: 9 Word: 7

disencumber dis en KUM bur

to free from burdens, to extricate We are trying to disencumber ourselves from financial debts. Synonyms : disembarrass, extricate Antonyms : to entangle; to snare Derivatives : disencumberment, disencumbrance Lesson: 39 Word: 8

extricate EK struh kate

to free, to disentangle He could not extricate himself from the trap. Synonyms : disembarrass, disencumber Antonyms : to snare Derivatives : extrication, extricated, extricable Lesson: 6 Word: 10

pucker PUK ur

to gather into wrinkles or irregular folds His lips puckered into a low whistle when he heard her name. Synonyms : wrinkle, furrow, contract Antonyms : to straighten Derivatives : puckered, puckering, puckerer, puckery Lesson: 37 Word: 19

coagulate ko AG yuh late

to gather together in a mass, to clot; to congeal Because blood coagulates, people do not bleed to death from small cuts. Synonyms : Antonyms : to flow freely Derivatives : coagulable, coagulant, coagulated, coagulating, coagulation, coagulative, coagulator Lesson: 28 Word: 5

garner GAR nur

to gather together, to store up I will need to garner all of my allies in order to win this vote. Synonyms : Antonyms : to disperse Derivatives : garnering, garnered Lesson: 20 Word: 11

circumvent SIR kum vent

to get around something, to outwit, to frustrate; to avoid The witness tried unsuccessfully to circumvent the subject. Synonyms : Antonyms : to confront Derivatives : circumventer, circumventor, circumvention, circumventive, circumvented, circumventing Lesson: 41 Word: 4

betoken buh TOE kun

to give a sign of His good actions betokened a kind heart. Synonyms : Antonyms : to hide; to conceal Derivatives : betokened Lesson: 43 Word: 2

ratify RAT eh fie

to give formal approval In the United States, a treaty must be ratified by two-thirds of the Senate in order to take effect. Synonyms : Antonyms : to reject Derivatives : ratification, ratificationist, ratifier Lesson: 19 Word: 19

acquiesce AK wee es

to give in, to comply I was so desperate that I had to acquiesce to his demands. Synonyms : accede, agree, assent, consent, subscribe Antonyms : to object; to disagree Derivatives : acquiescence, acquiescent, acquiescingly, acquiescently Lesson: 8 Word: 1

validate VAL eh date

to give official sanction The election results must be validated by the school board before they are official. Synonyms : authenticate, confirm, corroborate, substantiate, verify Antonyms : to invalidate; to void; to nullify Derivatives : validation, validatory, validity, validly Lesson: 29 Word: 24

enfranchise en FRAN chize

to give or to bestow something such as the right to vote or citizenship This bill will cause many young people to be enfranchised with the right to vote. Synonyms : Antonyms : to remove; to take away Derivatives : enfranchisement, enfranchiser Lesson: 26 Word: 10

begrudge buh GRUJ

to give reluctantly, to envy a possession or one's enjoyment She did not begrudge the money spent on her child's education. Synonyms : Antonyms : to give willingly Derivatives : begrudged, begrudging, begrudgingly Lesson: 37 Word: 2

harbor HAR bur

to give shelter or refuge It is illegal to harbor an escaped convict. Synonyms : Antonyms : to turn away Derivatives : harbors, harbored,harboring, harborage Lesson: 29 Word: 13

allure uh LUR

to influence, sway, or entice with some tempting appeal The child tried to allure the stray dog into her yard with a piece of bread. Synonyms : attract, fascinate, charm Antonyms : Derivatives : allured, alluring, allures, allurement, allurer Lesson: 13 Word: 1

apprise uh PRIZE

to inform or to give notice People who are arrested have to be apprised of their rights. Synonyms : acquaint, notify Antonyms : to fail to inform Derivatives : apprised, apprising, apprizer Lesson: 40 Word: 2

foment foe MENT

to instigate, to stir up, to promote the growth of The raid on the armory was an attempt to foment revolution. Synonyms : abet, incite, instigate Antonyms : to calm; to sedate Derivatives : fomentation, fomenter, foments, fomenting, fomented Lesson: 56 Word: 8

incapacitate in kuh PAS eh tate

to make incapable or unfit; to deprive of capacity A serious illness will incapacitate him, and we will be unable to go on with the journey. Synonyms : Antonyms : to aid; to make capable Derivatives : incapacitation, incapacity Lesson: 57 Word: 9

rarefy RARE uh fie

to make less dense; to make more spiritual, refined, or abstruse Their thoughts are refined and rarefied through interaction with each other. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make denser; to condense Derivatives : rarefier, rarefied, rarefiable, rarefactive, rarefaction Lesson: 53 Word: 17

facilitate fuh SIL eh tate

to make less difficult Appliances are useful in facilitating housework. Synonyms : Antonyms : to complicate Derivatives : facilitated, facilitating, facilitates, facilitation, facilitator, facilitatory Lesson: 23 Word: 11

vivify VIV uh fie

to make more lively The clown began his antics to try to vivify the audience. Synonyms : Antonyms : to dull; to quiet Derivatives : vivid, vividity, vivific, vivificate, vivification Lesson: 57 Word: 25

requite reh KWITE

to make repayment or to return The girl suffered a broken heart from unrequited love. Synonyms : Antonyms : to withhold Derivatives : requited, requiter, requital Lesson: 47 Word: 18

burnish BUR nish

to make shiny or to polish by rubbing Burnished metal is usually very reflective. Synonyms : Antonyms : to tarnish Derivatives : burnisher, burnishes, burnished, burnishing Lesson: 41 Word: 3

synchronize SING kruh nize

to make simultaneous; to operate at the same time We need to synchronize our watches with the clocks in the school. Synonyms : Antonyms : to operate at different times Derivatives : synchronization, synchronous, synchronizer, synchronistic, synchronistically, synchronistical Lesson: 47 Word: 21

consolidate kun SOL uh date

to make solid, to unite, or to merge Medical professionals need to consolidate their forces to seek a cure for the AIDS virus. Synonyms : Antonyms : to break into parts Derivatives : consolidated, consolidating, consolidator, consolidation Lesson: 26 Word: 6

transcended tran SEND ed

surpassed, exceeded His actions in the crisis transcended the call of duty. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : transcend, transcendence, transcendency, transcendent, transcendental, transcendentalistic Lesson: 22 Word: 23

vulnerable VUL nur uh bul

susceptible to injury or attack A fighter is vulnerable if he does not keep up his guard. Synonyms : Antonyms : protected Derivatives : vulnerability, vulnerableness, vulnerably Lesson: 42 Word: 25

abeyance uh BAY uns

suspension of action The meeting was held in abeyance until the chairperson arrived. Synonyms : dormancy, latency, quiescence Antonyms : activity Derivatives : abeyant Lesson: 28 Word: 1

mellifluous muh LIF loo us

sweetly or smoothly flowing; sweet-sounding The singer has a mellifluous voice. Synonyms : Antonyms : harsh sounding Derivatives : mellifluousness, mellifluously, mellifluent, millifluence, mellifluently Lesson: 54 Word: 11

turgid TUR jid

swollen The body was turgid from being in the water for so long. Synonyms : Antonyms : deflated Derivatives : turgidity, turgidly, turgidness Lesson: 26 Word: 24

allegory AL uh gore ee

symbolical narrative; treatment of one subject under the guise of another Authors frequently discuss sensitive political issues through the use of allegory. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : allegorical, allegoric, allegorically, allegoricalness, allegorist, allegoristic, allegorized, allegorizing, Lesson: 57 Word: 2

anarchy AN ar kee

the absence of government; a state of lawlessness During the revolution, the government was overthrown and the country was in a state of anarchy. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : anarches, anarchist, anarchism, anarchic, anarch Lesson: 23 Word: 2

syncopation sing kuh PAY shun

the accenting of musical beats not normally accented The syncopation in the music made dancing fun. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : syncopated, syncopate, syncopative, syncopator Lesson: 48 Word: 22

impoundment im POUND munt

the act of being seized and held in the custody of the law The man was not happy when he had to deal with the impoundment of his car. Synonyms : confinement Antonyms : Derivatives : impound, impounded, impounding, impoundable Lesson: 50 Word: 11

retrenchment reh TRENCH munt

the act of cutting down or off as by the reduction of expenses Half of the workers were eliminated from the payroll by retrenchment. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : retrench, retrenchable, retrencher Lesson: 50 Word: 19

remuneration reh myoo nuh RAY

the act of paying for a service, loss, or expense The man sought remuneration for his expenses from his boss. Synonyms : compensation, reimbursement Antonyms : Derivatives : remunerate, remunerative, remunerator, remuneratively, remunerativeness Lesson: 27 Word: 20

renunciation reh nun see A shun

the act of renouncing; ascetic self-denial The board member made a renunciation of his chairmanship. Synonyms : sacrifice, rejection, repudiation Antonyms : Derivatives : renunciate, renunciant, renunciative, renunciatory Lesson: 61 Word: 20

dissemination deh sem uh NAY

the act of spreading widely; scattering The dissemination of these ideas can best be achieved through television. Synonyms : Antonyms : consolidation Derivatives : disseminate, disseminator Lesson: 4 Word: 10

larceny LAR suh nee

the act of stealing another's property After being convicted of larceny, the man offered to return the stolen items for a shorter prison term. Synonyms : theft Antonyms : Derivatives : larcener, larcenist, larcenous, larcenously, larcenies Lesson: 17 Word: 14

aberration ab uh RAY shun

the act of straying from the right or usual course; deviation from truth This particular rule is an aberration of our usual standards. Synonyms : wandering, deviation, divergence, abnormality, eccentricity Antonyms : common occurrence Derivatives : aberrant, aberrance, aberrancy, aberrational Lesson: 65 Word: 2

retraction reh TRAK shun

the act of taking back or disavowing He maintained that his story was true and refused to offer a retraction. Synonyms : abjure, forswear, recant, renounce Antonyms : reaffirmation Derivatives : retractable, retract, retractile, retractor Lesson: 49 Word: 20

rhetoric RET ur ik

the art of using words effectively in speaking or writing; inflated language Freshman composition is a course in rhetoric. Synonyms : verbosity, bombast; discourse, speech Antonyms : Derivatives : rhetorical, rhetorically, rhetoricalness, rhetoricate, rhetorician, rhetorize Lesson: 25 Word: 16

inception in SEP shun

the beginning of something Joe has worked for the company since its inception in 1935. Synonyms : origin, source Antonyms : conclusion Derivatives : incept, inceptive, inceptively, inceptor Lesson: 24 Word: 12

inaugural in AH gyur ul

the beginning, the first of a series After the President of the United States takes the oath of office, he makes his inaugural address. Synonyms : Antonyms : final Derivatives : inaugurate, inaugurated, inaugurating, inauguration, inaugurator Lesson: 55 Word: 8

privation pry VAY shun

the condition of lacking basic necessities of life Children in many parts of the world face severe privation. Synonyms : Antonyms : abundance Derivatives : privational, privative, privatively Lesson: 55 Word: 14

mutability myoo tuh BILL uh tee

the degree to which something is subject and likely to change The mutability of his opinions was because of political pressures; these alone caused his changing attitudes. Synonyms : inconsistency Antonyms : consistency Derivatives : mutable, mutably, mutation Lesson: 13 Word: 16

ethos EE thos, ETH os

the distinguishing character or values of a specific people or culture In the Indian ethos, the young brave was encouraged into manhood. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : ethoses Lesson: 35 Word: 6

serendipity ser un DIP eh tee

the faculty for making desirable discoveries by accident Finding the road to his house was a case of serendipity. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 55 Word: 19

vanguard VAN gard

the forefront in any movement, field, or activity This innovative school is a vanguard in the field of education. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vanguardism, vanguardist Lesson: 56 Word: 23

convalescence kon vuh LES uns

the gradual recovery of health and strength after illness The athlete's convalescence was dependent on following his doctor's orders. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : convalesce, convalescent, convalescently Lesson: 63 Word: 4

apogee AP uh jee

the highest or most distant point; the climax The apogee of environmental concern has yet to be seen. Synonyms : Antonyms : lowest point Derivatives : apogeal, apogean, apogeic Lesson: 43 Word: 1

zenith ZEE nith

the highest point overhead, peak With that award-winning film, she reached the zenith of her career. Synonyms : Antonyms : lowest point Derivatives : zeniths, zenithal Lesson: 54 Word: 25

barbarism BAR buh riz um

the incorrect usage of words or forms of language The English teacher cringed at the gross barbarism in the paper. Synonyms : Antonyms : acceptable diction Derivatives : barbarous, barbarously, barbarousness Lesson: 38 Word: 3

expiate EK spee ate

to atone or to make amends for a sin or a crime The judge asked him to expiate his crime by doing one hundred hours of community service. Synonyms : Antonyms : to hold grudges Derivatives : expiation, expiational, expiative, expiator, expiatory Lesson: 60 Word: 5

protagonist pro TAG uh nist

the leading character of a drama or other literary work The protagonist of this story gets the smartest girl. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : protagonism Lesson: 64 Word: 17

nadir NA dur

the lowest point The rejection of our proposal was the nadir of our hopes. Synonyms : Antonyms : highest point Derivatives : nadiral Lesson: 51 Word: 14

pinnacle PIN uh kul

the peak or highest point His career reached its pinnacle during the season when he hit sixty home runs. Synonyms : Antonyms : low point Derivatives : pinnacled, pinnacling, pinnacles Lesson: 41 Word: 14

tenure TEN yur

the period of holding something Under his tenure at the space administration, not one astronaut was injured. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : tenurial, tenurially Lesson: 41 Word: 22

translucence trans LOO suns

the quality of allowing passage of light but not a clear view Because of the translucence of the water, I could see a body but could not tell whose it was. Synonyms : limpidity, transparency Antonyms : opaqueness; darkness Derivatives : translucency, translucent, translucently Lesson: 37 Word: 23

antiquity an TIK wuh tee

the quality of being ancient; ancient times Many scholars spend years studying the records left from antiquity. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : antiquities, antiquitarian Lesson: 20 Word: 2

introspective in truh SPEK tiv

the quality of examining one's own mind or thoughts I must be very introspective before I make my decision. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : introspect, introspection, introspector, introspectable, introspectional, introspectively, introspectionism Lesson: 9 Word: 13

iridescence ear eh DES uns

the quality of exhibiting rainbow-like colors, brilliant appearance The iridescence of the room with all the mirrors and chandeliers was magnificent. Synonyms : Antonyms : dullness; darkness Derivatives : iridescent, iridesce, iridescently Lesson: 57 Word: 10

baseness BASE ness

the quality of lacking higher values We were shocked at the criminal's baseness. Synonyms : vileness, servility, unworthiness Antonyms : Derivatives : base, baser, basest, basely Lesson: 63 Word: 2

humility hyoo MIL eh tee

the quality or state of being humble in spirit The humility of the man was astounding: he gave no sign of having excessive pride or arrogance. Synonyms : Antonyms : pride; arrogance Derivatives : humilities, humble, humbly Lesson: 17 Word: 12

regimen REJ uh men

the regular process, procedure, or system of doing something The boxer's training regimen is very strenuous. Synonyms : Antonyms : unsystematic activity Derivatives : regiment, regimental, regimentally, regimentation, regiminal Lesson: 58 Word: 18

slag SLAG

the residue or mass of metal left after smelting; worthless matter The bottom of the pit was full of slag. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : slagger Lesson: 33 Word: 21

franchise FRAN chize

the right to vote We have laws to guarantee the franchise of every citizen so that he may vote. Synonyms : Antonyms : denial of the right to vote Derivatives : franchised, franchising, franchisement, franchiser Lesson: 61 Word: 9

parity PAIR eh tee

the state of being equal Parity must exist between power and responsibility. Synonyms : likeness Antonyms : inequality Derivatives : parities Lesson: 56 Word: 15

complacency kum PLAY sun see

the state of being self-satisfied Considering that he is failing, it is curious to see his sense of complacency. Synonyms : Antonyms : dissatisfaction Derivatives : complacent, complacently, complacence, complaisant, complaisance, complaisantly Lesson: 16 Word: 8

protuberance pro TOO buh runs

the state of bulging beyond the surrounding area; protrusion The woman was embarrassed by the protuberance of her lower jaw. Synonyms : projection Antonyms : indentation Derivatives : protuberancy, protuberant, protuberantly Lesson: 55 Word: 15

repress reh PRES

to restrain, to hold back I feel that I need to repress my desires for him since he obviously does not like me. Synonyms : Antonyms : to release Derivatives : repressed, repression, repressive, repressiveness Lesson: 61 Word: 21

fetter FET ur

to restrict by shackling or chaining The convict was fettered to prevent his escape. Synonyms : Antonyms : to liberate Derivatives : fettered, fettering Lesson: 21 Word: 11

countermand koun ter MAND

to revoke, to cancel, or to reverse When the President awoke from surgery, he countermanded some orders issued by the Vice President. Synonyms : Antonyms : to approve; to validate Derivatives : countermandable, countermanded, countermanding Lesson: 44 Word: 5

resurge reh SURJ

to rise again Our football team's chances of a title will resurge if the coach drafts a good quarterback. Synonyms : Antonyms : to remain quiescent Derivatives : resurgence, resurgency, resurgent Lesson: 48 Word: 19

levitate LEV eh tate

to rise or to float in the air in seeming defiance of gravity The magician began his show by making a volunteer from the audience levitate. Synonyms : Antonyms : to cause to fall, to descend Derivatives : levitated, levitating, levitation, levitational, levitative Lesson: 34 Word: 14

pillage PILL ij

to rob or to take by force, to plunder (especially in a war situation) In World War II, the Germans pillaged the Russians, and then the Russians pillaged the Germans. Synonyms : despoil, devastate, ravage, sack, waste Antonyms : Derivatives : pillager, pillaged, pillaging Lesson: 51 Word: 17

upbraid up BRADE

to scold harshly, to reproach I must upbraid my son for staying out past his curfew. Synonyms : berate, rail at, revile, vituperate Antonyms : to praise Derivatives : upbraided, upbraider, upbraiding, upbraidingly Lesson: 34 Word: 24

reprove reh PROOV

to scold or to rebuke for a misdeed usually with kindly intent A teacher sometimes needs to reprove a student for talking during class. Synonyms : admonish, castigate, chastise, chide, rebuke, reproach Antonyms : to approve; to applaud Derivatives : reprovable, reprovingly, reproving, reproved, reproves, reproof Lesson: 2 Word: 22

sequester seh KWES tur

to seclude Because of the publicity about the case and the defendant, the judge decided to sequester the jury. Synonyms : Antonyms : to allow to mingle freely Derivatives : sequestered, sequestrable, sequestrant, sequestration, sequestrator Lesson: 33 Word: 20

cloister KLOI stur

to seclude or to confine The wealthy magnate led a cloistered life in his retirement. Synonyms : Antonyms : to display; to exhibit; to make Derivatives : cloistered, cloisterlike, cloistering Lesson: 40 Word: 4

anchor ANG kur

to secure firmly Anchor the boat to the dock. Synonyms : Antonyms : to release from restraint Derivatives : anchored, anchoring, anchors Lesson: 33 Word: 1

dispatch deh SPATCH

to send away with promptness or speed; speed, quickness The officer dispatched his troops to the scene of conflict. Synonyms : haste, expediency Antonyms : to delay; slowness, inefficiency Derivatives : dispatched, dispatching, dispatches Lesson: 20 Word: 8

remit reh MIT

to send or to transmit (usually money) The phone company called and said that we needed to remit our payment or our service would be cut off. Synonyms : Antonyms : to collect Derivatives : remitment, remittable, remittal, remittance, remittee Lesson: 59 Word: 20

winnow WIN oh

to separate or to distinguish (valuable from worthless parts) The lawyer tried to winnow falsehood from truth. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : winnowed, winnowing, winnower Lesson: 47 Word: 25

sanctify SANGK tuh fie

to set apart for sacred use, to make holy, to purify A priest sanctifies water by blessing it. Synonyms : Antonyms : to taint Derivatives : sanctification, sanctified, sanctifier, sanctity, sanctitude Lesson: 64 Word: 18

quash KWOSH

to set aside or to suppress forcibly The dictator was able to quash the rebellion by shooting those who opposed him. Synonyms : annul, abrogate, void; crush, quell Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 50 Word: 17

rectify REK tuh fie

to set right or to correct The school board has decided to increase funding for female athletic teams in order to rectify past imbalances. Synonyms : reform, revise, remedy, emend Antonyms : Derivatives : rectifiable, rectifier, rectified, rectifying Lesson: 16 Word: 20

ensconce en SKONS

to settle comfortably Before the game started, he ensconced himself in the easy chair. Synonyms : Antonyms : to uproot Derivatives : ensconced, ensconcing Lesson: 50 Word: 7

quake KWAKE

to shake from shock or instability I began to quake in my boots when he pulled a gun. Synonyms : Antonyms : to remain motionless Derivatives : quaked, quaking Lesson: 49 Word: 18

hone HONE

to sharpen, to make more intense, to make more effective I am going to the golf course to hone my putting skills. Synonyms : Antonyms : to dull Derivatives : honer Lesson: 34 Word: 10

molt MOLT

to shed an outer covering such as feathers or skin periodically Feathers are everywhere since my birds are molting. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : molts, molted, molting Lesson: 30 Word: 16

truncate TRUNG kate

to shorten by cutting If you truncate the board, it will fit into the space you desire. Synonyms : Antonyms : to lengthen Derivatives : truncated, truncately, truncation, truncature Lesson: 28 Word: 23

abridge uh BRIJ

to shorten, to diminish Some companies publish abridged versions of novels. Synonyms : abbreviate, curtail, retrench, shorten Antonyms : to expand Derivatives : abridgable, abridged, abridger, abridgment Lesson: 12 Word: 1

evince eh VINS

to show clearly By making a 27 on the test, he evinced his lack of knowledge of the material. Synonyms : manifest, evidence Antonyms : to suppress, to hide, to conceal Derivatives : evinced,evincing, evincible, evincive Lesson: 36 Word: 8

waver WAY vur

to show indecision or to vacillate I have convinced him to waver from his previous decision. Synonyms : Antonyms : to stand firm Derivatives : wavers, wavered, wavering, waveringly, wavery Lesson: 43 Word: 25

flaunt FLONT

to show off, to display ostentatiously The woman was obviously trying to flaunt the new diamond ring on her finger. Synonyms : Antonyms : to hide Derivatives : flaunted, flaunting, flaunter, flauntingly, flaunty Lesson: 65 Word: 11

understate UN dur state

to show restraint or lack of emphasis I believe that you are understating the danger of nuclear energy. Synonyms : Antonyms : to embroider Derivatives : understated, understatement Lesson: 27 Word: 24

scuttle SKUT ul

to sink (usually a ship) In war a captain of a ship might scuttle his vessel rather than have it captured and used by the enemy. Synonyms : Antonyms : to preserve Derivatives : scuttled, scuttling Lesson: 46 Word: 20

decelerate dee SEL uh rate

to slow down Before you reach the intersection, you should decelerate. Synonyms : Antonyms : to speed up Derivatives : decelerator,deceleration,decelerated, decelerating Lesson: 43 Word: 6

titter TIT ur

to snicker or to giggle nervously The girls tittered while they waited for the boys to ask them to dance. Synonyms : Antonyms : to frown Derivatives : tittered, tittering, titters Lesson: 56 Word: 21

rebuff reh BUFF

to snub or to refuse bluntly The woman was not afraid to rebuff the man's inappropriate advances toward her. Synonyms : Antonyms : to accept Derivatives : rebuffed, rebuffing, rebuffs Lesson: 21 Word: 20

saturate SACH uh rate

to soak, to completely fill Floods sometimes occur when the ground becomes saturated from a heavy rain and can absorb no more water. Synonyms : Antonyms : to desiccate; to dry out Derivatives : saturation, saturated, saturating Lesson: 31 Word: 21

congeal kun JEEL

to solidify or to coagulate We waited three hours for the Jell-O to congeal. Synonyms : Antonyms : to become fluid Derivatives : congealing, congealed, congealment, congelative Lesson: 23 Word: 6

mollify MOL eh fie

to soothe or to appease, to assuage The woman promised to buy candy in order to mollify her screaming child. Synonyms : conciliate, pacify, placate, propitiate Antonyms : to aggravate Derivatives : mollification, mollifyingly, mollifier, mollifiable Lesson: 17 Word: 16

decry deh KRY

to speak against, to rail against, to disparage Many decry the lack of concern for this problem. Synonyms : Antonyms : to laud Derivatives : decried, decrying, decrier Lesson: 12 Word: 6

articulate are TIK yuh late

to speak distinctly; expressing oneself clearly A good politician must be able to articulate his views. Synonyms : Antonyms : to speak indistinctly; to mumble Derivatives : articulated, articulating, articulation, articulateness, articulative, articulately, articulator Lesson: 47 Word: 3

pontificate pon TIF uh kate

to speak in a self-important manner; to speak pompously One would think that my dad were the Pontiff himself, the way he pontificates about his achievements. Synonyms : Antonyms : to speak humbly Derivatives : pontifical, pontificalibus, pontificality, pontification, pontificator Lesson: 62 Word: 15

banter BAN ter

to speak in a witty or teasing manner The opposing coaches, who were old friends, bantered back and forth before the game. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : banterer, bantering, banteringly, banters, bantered Lesson: 16 Word: 4

diffuse deh FYOOZ

to spread in all directions The rioting crowd was diffused by tear gas and water hoses. Synonyms : Antonyms : to bring together Derivatives : diffusedness, diffusedly, diffusely, diffuseness, diffuser, diffusibility, diffusion, diffusible Lesson: 17 Word: 8

germinate JUR muh nate

to sprout, to begin to grow, to evolve It takes about two weeks for some plants to germinate. Synonyms : Antonyms : to die Derivatives : germinal, germinability, germinable, germinally Lesson: 39 Word: 12

burgeon BUR jun

to sprout, to newly emerge Plants burgeon with the coming of spring. Synonyms : Antonyms : to shrivel and die; to wither Derivatives : burgeoned, burgeoning Lesson: 10 Word: 4

totter TOT ur

to stagger as if about to fall Drinking heavily will usually cause one to totter. Synonyms : Antonyms : to walk steadily Derivatives : tottered, tottering, totteringly, tottery, totters Lesson: 36 Word: 22

loiter LOI tur

to stand idly or to linger aimlessly The police did not want people to loiter around the scene of the shooting. Synonyms : dally, dawdle, procrastinate Antonyms : to hasten Derivatives : loitering, loiteringly Lesson: 60 Word: 12

kindle KIN dul

to start a fire, to stir up The boys were taught to kindle a fire. Synonyms : Antonyms : to douse Derivatives : kindled, kindling, kindles Lesson: 16 Word: 14

plagiarize PLAY juh rize

to steal and to use another's writings as one's own English teachers are always on the lookout for materials in themes that are plagiarized. Synonyms : Antonyms : to originate Derivatives : plagiarism, plagiarist, plagiaristic, plagiary Lesson: 9 Word: 18

galvanize GAL vuh nize

to stimulate or to excite as if by an electric shock We are hoping that these new discoveries will galvanize the public support of our research. Synonyms : Antonyms : to calm; to soothe Derivatives : galvanization, galvanized, galvanizer, galvanic Lesson: 13 Word: 13

stoke STOKE

to stir up, to amply feed He stoked the fire so it would give off more heat. Synonyms : Antonyms : to smother Derivatives : stoked, stoking Lesson: 57 Word: 20

intensify in TEN suh fie

to strengthen We will intensify our position by getting more documentation to support our views. Synonyms : Antonyms : to weaken Derivatives : intensification, intensifier, intensified, intensifying, intensifies Lesson: 35 Word: 10

excoriate ik SKOR ee ate

to strongly denounce or to censure Prior to passing sentence on the convicted man, the judge excoriated him for stealing from the church. Synonyms : revile, berate Antonyms : to praise Derivatives : excoriated, excoriating, excoriation Lesson: 57 Word: 7

revile reh VILE

to subject to verbal abuse The woman began to revile her husband in a fit of anger. Synonyms : upbraid, berate, rail at, vituperate, scold Antonyms : to praise; to acclaim Derivatives : reviled, reviling, revilement, reviler, revilingly Lesson: 35 Word: 19

convoke kun VOKE

to summon or to call together The meeting of the board was convoked to discuss the chairman's resignation. Synonyms : convene, muster Antonyms : to revoke; to disassemble Derivatives : convocation, convoke, convoker Lesson: 31 Word: 6

document DOK yu munt

to support with references or citations The lawyer must document instances of bad conduct if a sound case is to be made against the criminal. Synonyms : Antonyms : to leave unsupported Derivatives : documents, documenting, documentive Lesson: 55 Word: 6

capitulate kuh PICH uh late

to surrender The army was expected to capitulate after having lost that last battle with so many casualties. Synonyms : defer, relent, submit, succumb, yield Antonyms : to resist Derivatives : capitulated, capitulating, capitulation Lesson: 26 Word: 3

extradite EK struh dite

to surrender a prisoner from one jurisdiction to another Officials in Israel wanted our government to extradite the accused war criminal to their country. Synonyms : Antonyms : to grant asylum to Derivatives : extraditable, extradition Lesson: 62 Word: 7

abnegate AB nuh gayt

to surrender or to relinquish (a right, belief, or idea) He asked the committee to abnegate its right to rule on the issue. Synonyms : forgo Antonyms : to admit, to accept Derivatives : abnegated, abnegating, abnegates, abnegation, abnegator Lesson: 42 Word: 1

relish REL ish

to take great pleasure or delight in I relish the thought of graduating from high school and getting out on my own. Synonyms : Antonyms : to detest Derivatives : relishable, relished, relishing Lesson: 25 Word: 15

assimilate uh SIM uh late

to take in and incorporate as one's own, to absorb He assimilated many new experiences on his trip to the Orient. Synonyms : Antonyms : to reject Derivatives : assimilated, assimilating, assimilation, assimilationist, assimilative, assimilatory, assimilativeness, assimilator Lesson: 37 Word: 1

usurp yoo SURP

to take possession or authority over something without right The younger son tried to usurp the throne from the rightful heir. Synonyms : Antonyms : to acquiesce Derivatives : usurpation, usurpative, usurpatory, usurpature Lesson: 36 Word: 23

despoil deh SPOIL

to take possessions by force, to plunder Residents of occupied areas during a war are often despoiled. Synonyms : devastate, pillage, ravage, sack, waste Antonyms : to replenish Derivatives : despoiler, despoilment, despoliation Lesson: 65 Word: 7

blanch BLANCH

to take the color out of, to bleach, to make white It is popular to blanch new blue jeans before wearing them. Synonyms : Antonyms : to color Derivatives : blancher, blanched Lesson: 30 Word: 3

supplant suh PLANT

to take the place of Republicans have supplanted the Democrats as the dominant political party in several counties. Synonyms : displace, supersede Antonyms : Derivatives : supplantation, supplanter, supplanted, supplanting Lesson: 43 Word: 23

prate PRATE

to talk idly or foolishly at great length We want a speaker who will talk of important issues, not one who will prate about himself. Synonyms : Antonyms : to speak about serious matters Derivatives : prater, prated, prating Lesson: 44 Word: 17

sully SUL ee

to tarnish, to dirty, or to soil Tabloid newspapers have been known to sully a person's good name with little or no documentation. Synonyms : defile Antonyms : to purify; to make clean Derivatives : sullied, sullying, sullies, sulliable Lesson: 64 Word: 20

inculcate in KUL kate, IN kul

to teach persistently and earnestly Many parents try to inculcate virtue in their young children. Synonyms : instill, infix, implant, ingrain Antonyms : Derivatives : inculcated, inculcating, inculcative, inculcation, inculcatory, inculcator Lesson: 64 Word: 9

rend REND

to tear violently, to split He tried to rend the flag as a protest against the war. Synonyms : cleave, rive Antonyms : to unify Derivatives : rent, rended, rending, rends Lesson: 39 Word: 23

flourish FLUR ish

to thrive, to grow well The company flourished after a new board of directors took control. Synonyms : Antonyms : to wither Derivatives : flourisher, flourishing, flourishingly, flourishy Lesson: 5 Word: 13

obtrude ub TROOD

to thrust out, to thrust forward It is often rude to obtrude one's opinions upon another when no invitation for them has been given. Synonyms : intrude Antonyms : to hold in; to recoil Derivatives : obtrusive, obtruder, obtrusion, obtrusively, obtrusiveness Lesson: 29 Word: 18

constrict kun STRIKT

to tighten or to make narrow Strangling constricts the windpipe and keeps air from reaching the lungs. Synonyms : compress, condense, contract, deflate Antonyms : to distend Derivatives : constriction, constrictive, constrictor, constricted, constricting Lesson: 40 Word: 5

lionize LIE uh nize

to treat one with importance or as a celebrity The newspapers often lionize a celebrity who visits the city. Synonyms : Antonyms : to spurn Derivatives : lionism, lionization Lesson: 35 Word: 12

flout FLOUT

to treat with contempt When the boy answered the question he flouted a response that was both rude and insulting. Synonyms : scoff, jeer, gibe, sneer, mock, insult Antonyms : Derivatives : flouted, flouting, flouts, flouter, floutingly Lesson: 19 Word: 9

dupe DOOP, DYOOP

to trick, to fool, to deceive, or to cheat; to bilk He was duped into investing his life savings into a bankrupt company. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : duped, duping, dupery Lesson: 17 Word: 9

wheedle HWEED ul

to try to convince by flattery, to coax, to cajole She is able to wheedle whatever she desires from the men she dates. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : wheedling, wheedled, wheedles Lesson: 45 Word: 25

emulate EM yuh late

to try to equal or to be like (usually through imitation) He has a lot of fine qualities that I try to emulate. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : emulation, emulative, emulator, emulatively Lesson: 22 Word: 8

gnarl NARL

to twist extensively After riding the motorcycle all day, her hair was so gnarled by the wind that it was difficult to comb. Synonyms : Antonyms : smooth and straighten Derivatives : gnarled, gnarly Lesson: 40 Word: 11

disentangle dis en TANG gul

to unravel, extricate The referee tried to disentangle the players to see who had the ball. Synonyms : Antonyms : to enmesh; to tie up Derivatives : disentanglement, disentangler Lesson: 40 Word: 6

goad GODE

to urge on in a negative sense He was goaded by his friends to take drugs. Synonyms : Antonyms : to dissuade Derivatives : goaded, goading Lesson: 54 Word: 7

impel im PEL

to urge or to drive forward (usually with moral pressure) I will impel him to study more often in order to pass this class. Synonyms : Antonyms : to restrain Derivatives : impelling, impellment, impeller, impelled Lesson: 37 Word: 12

deplete deh PLETE

to use up gradually, to lessen in amount or value Our oil reserves have been depleted because of years of drilling and pumping. Synonyms : Antonyms : to restore Derivatives : depleted, depleting, depletion, depletive, depletable Lesson: 8 Word: 7

malign muh LINE

to utter injuriously misleading reports about Several old gossips in the neighborhood had maligned the woman. Synonyms : traduce, asperse, vilify, calumniate, defame Antonyms : to extol Derivatives : malignance, malignancy, malignant, malignantly Lesson: 42 Word: 15

desecrate DES uh krate

to violate the sanctity of something, to profane, to adulterate The hoodlums desecrated the cemetery by painting on the tombstones. Synonyms : Antonyms : to consecrate; to laud; to praise Derivatives : desecrater, desecration Lesson: 18 Word: 7

chide CHIDE

to voice disapproval, to scold I was chided by my teacher for not completing my assignment. Synonyms : admonish, castigate, chasten, chastise, rebuke, reprove Antonyms : to applaud Derivatives : chided, chid, chidden, chiding, chider, chidingly Lesson: 29 Word: 6

squander SKWON dur

to waste He squandered the family fortune on wine, women, and song. Synonyms : Antonyms : to conserve Derivatives : squanderer, squandered, squandering Lesson: 29 Word: 22

atrophy AT row fee

to waste away, to wither His hunger strike caused his body to atrophy. Synonyms : Antonyms : to thrive; to grow Derivatives : atrophied, atrophying, atrophic Lesson: 6 Word: 4

dawdle DOD ul

to waste time, to spend time idly, to move in a lackadaisical manner Since we have a deadline, do not dawdle over your work. Synonyms : dally, loiter, procrastinate Antonyms : to rush Derivatives : dawdled, dawdling Lesson: 2 Word: 8

debilitate deh BIL uh tate

to weaken, to enfeeble I was debilitated by my bout with pneumonia. Synonyms : sap Antonyms : to invigorate Derivatives : debilitated, debilitating, debilitation, debilitative, debility Lesson: 4 Word: 8

recant reh KANT

to withdraw or to repudiate a statement or belief, revoke The prosecutor's case was greatly weakened when his main witness recanted his testimony. Synonyms : abjure, forswear, renounce, retract Antonyms : to avow; to reaffirm belief Derivatives : recantation, recanter Lesson: 3 Word: 22

collaborate kuh LAB uh rate

to work together Sometimes singers who have never worked together will collaborate to make a new album. Synonyms : Antonyms : to work alone Derivatives : collaborated, collaborating, collaboration, collaborationism, collaborationist, collaborative, collaborator Lesson: 14 Word: 6

muted MYOO tid

toned down or silenced The conductor wanted the music to be muted at one spot in the performance. Synonyms : Antonyms : amplified Derivatives : mute, mutedly, mutely, muteness Lesson: 36 Word: 14

tempestuous tem PES choo us

turbulent, stormy The mayoral candidates had a tempestuous debate in which they exchanged many personal accusations. Synonyms : Antonyms : calm Derivatives : tempestuously, tempestuousness, tempest Lesson: 17 Word: 24

myopic my OP ik

unable to discern, unable to think clearly or objectively; shortsighted She is so myopic that she never sees all of her options. Synonyms : Antonyms : perceptive Derivatives : myopically Lesson: 28 Word: 14

inert in URT

unable to move or to act, sluggish It takes a long time to get things done when we must depend on inert bureaucrats. Synonyms : idle, passive, supine Antonyms : active Derivatives : inertia, inertial, inertion, inertness, inertly Lesson: 11 Word: 14

willful WIL ful

unruly, self-willed in an obstinate manner The teacher did not like his willful behavior of violating class rules. Synonyms : intractable, recalcitrant, refractory Antonyms : obedient Derivatives : wilful, willfully, wilfully, willfulness, wilfulness Lesson: 34 Word: 25

altruistic al tru IS tik

unselfishly concerned for the welfare of others, generous Nuns and nurses are usually very altruistic people since they seek ways to help people. Synonyms : Antonyms : belligerent; stingy; selfish Derivatives : altruism, altruist, altruistically Lesson: 1 Word: 1

naive na EVE

unsophisticated; inexperienced Many naive young women go to Hollywood believing that they will become movie stars. Synonyms : natural, artless, ingenuous Antonyms : sophisticated; experienced; wise Derivatives : naively, naivete, naiveness, naivety Lesson: 14 Word: 16

quaint KWAYNT

unusual in character or appearance When we go to New England, we like to stay in a quaint old inn that gives us the flavor of the area. Synonyms : eccentric, peculiar, queer, unique Antonyms : ordinary Derivatives : quaintish, quaintly, quaintness Lesson: 48 Word: 17

atypical a TIP uh kul

unusual or abnormal; odd Screaming at the referee is atypical for that normally calm coach. Synonyms : Antonyms : usual Derivatives : atypic, atypically Lesson: 32 Word: 3

noisome NOI sum

unwholesome, having a bad smell An outhouse can be a noisome building. Synonyms : fetid, fusty, malodorous, musty, putrid, rancid, rank Antonyms : wholesome Derivatives : noisomeness, noisomely Lesson: 46 Word: 14

morbidity mor BID eh tee

unwholesomeness and gloominess, gruesomeness The boy talked about dead people and gruesome things. He soon frightened me with his morbidity. Synonyms : Antonyms : wholesomeness Derivatives : morbid, morbidness Lesson: 33 Word: 13

restive RES tiv

unwilling to yield or to adjust The man was unable to persuade the restive crowd. Synonyms : contrary, perverse, balky, wayward, persistent, stubborn Antonyms : pliable; willing to change Derivatives : restively, restiveness Lesson: 35 Word: 18

obstinate OB stuh nit

unyielding regardless of reason or logic He will not accept advice on many things because of his obstinate attitude. Synonyms : Antonyms : yielding Derivatives : obstinacy, obstinancy, obstinance, obstinately, obstinateness, obstination Lesson: 23 Word: 19

disconcerting dis kun SUR ting

upsetting, frustrating That he has not responded to the medicine is disconcerting. Synonyms : Antonyms : refreshing; calming Derivatives : disconcert, disconcerted, disconcertedness, disconcerting, disconcertingly, disconcertingness, disconcertment Lesson: 32 Word: 10

exigent EK seh junt

urgent, requiring immediate attention The exigent situation required immediate attention. Synonyms : Antonyms : lacking urgency Derivatives : exigency, exigencies, exigence, exigently Lesson: 34 Word: 9

ravenous RAV uh nus

urgently eager for food; craving satisfaction or gratification The boy had a ravenous appetite and ate everything on the table. Synonyms : voracious, gluttonous, rapacious Antonyms : sated; satisfied; full Derivatives : ravenously, ravenousness Lesson: 54 Word: 18

instigation in stuh GAY shun

urging, provocation; initiation This project would never have been attempted without his instigation. Synonyms : abetment, fomentation, incitement Antonyms : dissuasion Derivatives : instigate, instigatingly, instigative, instigator Lesson: 30 Word: 13

cosmetology koz muh TOL uh jee

use of cosmetics in treating the hair, skin, or nails I am studying cosmetology so that I can get a job in a beauty salon. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : cosmetologist, cosmetologies Lesson: 65 Word: 6

utility yoo TIL eh tee

usefulness A hammer has much utility to a carpenter. Synonyms : Antonyms : uselessness Derivatives : utilize, utilizer, utilization Lesson: 18 Word: 25

sedulously SEJ uh lus lee

very diligent, accomplishing with painstaking care It is very heartwarming when I can get a student to sedulously complete an assignment. Synonyms : assiduous, industrious Antonyms : haphazardly Derivatives : sedulous, sedulity, sedulousness Lesson: 51 Word: 20

arid AIR id

very dry The desert is an arid place. Synonyms : Antonyms : moist Derivatives : aridity, aridness, aridly Lesson: 15 Word: 3

munificent myoo NIF eh sent

very generous The munificent gift to the school was appreciated by all of the students. Synonyms : Antonyms : parsimonious; stingy Derivatives : munificence, munificency, munificently, munificentness Lesson: 9 Word: 17

ponderous PON dur us

very heavy, unwieldy from weight The ponderous furniture was hard to move, and thus became a burden. Synonyms : cumbersome, cumbrous Antonyms : lightweight Derivatives : ponderosity, ponderously, ponderousness Lesson: 13 Word: 20

galling GAUL ing

very irritating It was a galling experience to have my boyfriend ask another girl to the prom. Synonyms : Antonyms : soothing Derivatives : gallingly, gallingness, gall, galls, galled Lesson: 19 Word: 10

succulent SUK yuh lunt

very juicy An orange is an example of a succulent fruit. Synonyms : Antonyms : dry Derivatives : succulency, succulence Lesson: 20 Word: 23

wan WAHN

very pale and sickly I knew that something very serious was wrong by his wan appearance. Synonyms : Antonyms : full of vitality Derivatives : wanned, wanning Lesson: 63 Word: 24

incisive in SIE siv

very perceptive, clear and to the point His incisive remarks swayed the crowd. Synonyms : Antonyms : obtuse Derivatives : incisively, incisiveness Lesson: 30 Word: 12

percipient pur SIP ee unt

very perceptive, discerning The play was reviewed by the city's foremost percipient critic. Synonyms : Antonyms : unperceptive; ignorant Derivatives : percipience, percipiency Lesson: 64 Word: 15

luscious LUSH us

very pleasant to the taste The meal was absolutely luscious. Synonyms : Antonyms : unpleasant to the taste Derivatives : lusciously, lusciousness Lesson: 19 Word: 14

rotund roe TUND

very plump, round Picture Henry the VIII if you want to visualize a rotund individual. Synonyms : Antonyms : gaunt Derivatives : rotundity, rotundly, rotundate Lesson: 58 Word: 19

indigent IN deh junt

very poor, impoverished It is hard to believe that Joe is homeless and indigent when he used to be president of a savings and loan thrift. Synonyms : destitute, impecunious Antonyms : affluent, wealthy Derivatives : indigence, indigently Lesson: 42 Word: 10

scrupulous SKROO pyuh lus

very principled, very careful and conscientious The scrupulous police officer never took a bribe, and he ceaselessly tried to prevent crime. Synonyms : meticulous, punctilious Antonyms : unprincipled Derivatives : scruple, scrupulosity, scrupulousness, scrupulously Lesson: 8 Word: 21

iota eye OH tuh

very small quantity There is not one iota of evidence that I committed the crime. Synonyms : Antonyms : large quantity Derivatives : iotas Lesson: 56 Word: 12

recalcitrant reh KAL seh trunt

very stubborn, refusing to obey, unruly Recalcitrant students are usually tardy, do not complete class assignments, and disrupt class. Synonyms : headstrong, intractable, refractory, willful Antonyms : compliant Derivatives : recalcitrance, recalcitrancy, recalcitrate, recalcitration Lesson: 22 Word: 18

loquacious low KWAY shus

very talkative The twins are quite different: one is taciturn and the other is loquacious. Synonyms : garrulous, voluble Antonyms : taciturn Derivatives : loquaciousness, loquaciously, loquacity Lesson: 18 Word: 16

emaciated eh MAY she ay tid

very thin (usually as a result of starvation), wasting away As a result of receiving little food, most prisoners of concentration camps become extremely emaciated. Synonyms : Antonyms : fat; corpulent Derivatives : emaciate, emaciation Lesson: 8 Word: 9

gaunt GAWNT

very thin, emaciated, angular Prisoners in World War II concentration camps became gaunt from lack of nutrition. Synonyms : lank, lean, rawboned, spare Antonyms : rotund, corpulent Derivatives : gauntly, gauntness, gaunty Lesson: 57 Word: 8

protean PRO tee un

very versatile; capable of great change The protean actor was the backbone of the company as he was able to star in any production with ease. Synonyms : Antonyms : stale; unchanging; limited in scope Derivatives : Lesson: 65 Word: 20

threadbare THRED bare

very worn The clown's coat was old and threadbare, with holes in the sleeves. Synonyms : shabby, dilapidated, haggard Antonyms : brand new; in excellent condition Derivatives : Lesson: 62 Word: 23

antediluvian an tuh duh LEW vee un

very, very old (it literally means "before the Flood") The natives' antediluvian marriage rituals had not changed in thousands of years. Synonyms : Antonyms : ultramodern Derivatives : antediluvial Lesson: 33 Word: 2

chagrin shuh GRIN

vexation through humiliation, hurt pride, or disappointment The chagrin the girl felt as a result of her abject poverty kept her from associating with her school peers. Synonyms : trouble, grief Antonyms : self-satisfaction Derivatives : chagrined, chagrining, chagrins Lesson: 28 Word: 4

strife STRIFE

vigorous or bitter conflict, discord, or antagonism The disagreement caused much strife between the two people. Synonyms : difference, disagreement, contrariety, opposition; fight Antonyms : Derivatives : strifeful, strifeless Lesson: 59 Word: 23

transgression trans GRESH un

violation of a law or command; sin Breaking the law is a transgression. Synonyms : contravention, disobedience, trespass Antonyms : obedience; upholding of the law Derivatives : transgress, transgressive, transgressively, transgressor Lesson: 45 Word: 22

treachery TRECH uh ree

violation of faith; betrayal of trust; treason The man's ruthless act of treachery was expected. Synonyms : disloyalty Antonyms : Derivatives : treacheries, treacherous, treacherously, treacherousness Lesson: 13 Word: 25

impetuous im PECH oo us

violent, hasty, rash, impulsive His impetuous behavior caused him to make many mistakes. Synonyms : Antonyms : reserved Derivatives : impetuosity, impetuously, impetuousness, impetus Lesson: 6 Word: 14

graphic GRAF ik

vivid I have trouble looking at graphic films of concentration camps. Synonyms : descriptive Antonyms : simple; unadorned Derivatives : graphical, graphically, graphicness Lesson: 23 Word: 14

ribald RIB uld

vulgarly humorous, profane It is uncharacteristic of a priest to tell a ribald joke. Synonyms : coarse, gross, obscene, vulgar Antonyms : high-minded Derivatives : ribaldly, ribaldrous, ribaldry Lesson: 54 Word: 19

belligerent buh LIJ er unt

waging war; inclined to or exhibiting assertiveness A belligerent nation always seems to be at war. Synonyms : bellicose, pugnacious, combative, contentious, quarrelsome Antonyms : peaceful Derivatives : belligerence, belligerency, belligerently Lesson: 19 Word: 3

opulence OP yuh luns

wealth, affluence, abundance Until the recent decline in the price of oil, the Hunt name was synonymous with opulence. Synonyms : Antonyms : meagerness, scarcity Derivatives : opulent, opulently Lesson: 5 Word: 23

inanimate in AN uh mit

without life A rock is an inanimate object. Synonyms : Antonyms : alive Derivatives : inanimately, inanimateness Lesson: 36 Word: 11

impecunious im puh KYOO nee us

without money Some formerly rich people have become impecunious because of the poor oil and real estate market. Synonyms : destitute, indigent Antonyms : rich Derivatives : impecuniary, impecuniousity, impecuniously, impecuniousness, impecunity Lesson: 12 Word: 11

insolvent in SOL vunt

without money, broke Before Congress passed the legislation, many worried that the social security fund might become insolvent. Synonyms : Antonyms : solvent; wealthy Derivatives : insolvence, insolvency Lesson: 29 Word: 16

impromptu im PROMP too

without prior preparation Politicians must be good at delivering impromptu speeches. Synonyms : Antonyms : prepared Derivatives : impromptus, impromptued, impromptuing Lesson: 39 Word: 15

insentient in SEN she unt

without sensation, lacking animation The insentient woman sat immobilized when she heard of the girl's death. Synonyms : Antonyms : capable of feeling Derivatives : insentience Lesson: 49 Word: 11

verbose ver BOSE

wordy, very talkative That professor is so verbose that it takes him an hour to cover material that should take fifteen minutes. Synonyms : Antonyms : terse Derivatives : verbosely, verboseness, verbosity Lesson: 4 Word: 23

solicitous suh LIS eh tus

worried, concerned He was very solicitous about the health of his ill grandmother. Synonyms : Antonyms : unconcerned Derivatives : solicitously, solicitousness, solicitude Lesson: 17 Word: 22

idolatry eye DOLL uh tree

worship of idols, excessive devotion The idolatry of rock stars by some teenagers can be dangerous. Synonyms : Antonyms : irreverence; indifference Derivatives : idolatrous, idolatrize, idolatrously, idolatrousness, idolater Lesson: 44 Word: 11

vile VILE

wretchedly bad; highly offensive, unpleasant or objectionable The politician fell victim to vile slander from his opponent. Synonyms : repellent, mean, vicious, evil, iniquitous Antonyms : good, elevated Derivatives : viler, vilest, vilely, vileness Lesson: 51 Word: 24

submissive sub MIS iv

yielding or surrendering oneself to the will of another I am very submissive to the demands and requests of my parents because I feel that they know best. Synonyms : Antonyms : rebellious Derivatives : submission, submiss, submissionist, submissively, submissiveness Lesson: 62 Word: 22

attenuate uh TEN you ate

to make thin or to lessen the force or magnitude The poor acoustics in the auditorium attenuated the force of his performance. Synonyms : lessen, weaken, rarefy Antonyms : to enlarge, to dilate Derivatives : attenuated, attenuant, attenuating,attenuation, attenuator, attenuated Lesson: 54 Word: 1

furrow FUR ow

to make wrinkles or grooves The man's furrowed brow showed his deep concern. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make plain Derivatives : furrowed, furrowing Lesson: 60 Word: 7

vilify VIL eh fie

to malign, to defame, to utter abusive statements against It is not right to vilify someone just because he disagrees with you. Synonyms : asperse, calumniate, denigrate, traduce Antonyms : to praise; to acclaim Derivatives : vilification, vilifier, vilifying, vilifyingly Lesson: 3 Word: 25

husband HUZ bund

to manage prudently and in a conservative manner A farmer must husband his animals if they are to remain healthy. Synonyms : Antonyms : to ignore; to slight Derivatives : husbandry, husbandman, husbandly, husbander, husbandland Lesson: 36 Word: 9

coalesce ko uh LESS

to merge, to fuse, to join, or to unite If the party can coalesce diverse groups into a united force, it might win the election. Synonyms : amalgamate, commingle Antonyms : to break up; to disperse Derivatives : coalesced, coalescing, coalescent Lesson: 14 Word: 5

fuse FYOOZ

to mix or to join (usually by melting) Zinc and copper can be fused into hard, bright brass. Synonyms : amalgamate, blend, coalesce, commingle, merge, mingle Antonyms : to divide Derivatives : fused, fusing, fuses, fusibility, fusible Lesson: 3 Word: 13

lament luh MENT

to mourn or to express sorrow in a demonstrative manner She lamented the death of her father in a very lachrymose manner. Synonyms : bemoan, bewail, deplore Antonyms : to rejoice Derivatives : lamented, lamenting, lamentation, lamentable Lesson: 1 Word: 14

retrogress REH truh gres

to move backward, to degenerate Some ministers believe that society's morals have retrogressed. Synonyms : recede, retract, retreat Antonyms : moving forward Derivatives : retrogressed, retrogressing, retrogression, retrogressive, retrogressively Lesson: 34 Word: 19

skulk SKULK

to move in a sneaky, furtive, or stealthy manner The burglar skulked about on the balcony. Synonyms : lurk, slink, sneak Antonyms : to be open; to lack secrecy Derivatives : skulker, skulked, skulking, skulks Lesson: 38 Word: 21

bolt BOLT

to move suddenly We were surprised when the horse suddenly bolted. Synonyms : Antonyms : to move sluggishly Derivatives : bolter, boltlike, bolted Lesson: 48 Word: 4

converge kun VERJ

to move together The cars converged at the intersection at the same time and crashed. Synonyms : Antonyms : to move apart Derivatives : converged, converging, convergence, convergency, convergent Lesson: 29 Word: 7

gravitate GRAV eh tate

to move toward something People tend to gravitate toward others with similar interests. Synonyms : Antonyms : to move away from something Derivatives : grivitated, gravitating, gravitation, gravitater, gravitational, gravitationally, gravity Lesson: 42 Word: 5

ascend uh SEND

to move upward, to rise from a lower station The climbers ascended the mountain. Synonyms : Antonyms : to descend; to go down Derivatives : ascendancy, ascendance, ascendant, ascension, ascending, ascended Lesson: 2 Word: 2

broach BROCH

to open up for the first time The man was reluctant to broach the subject of money for fear of beginning an argument. Synonyms : Antonyms : to close Derivatives : broacher, broaches, broached, broaching Lesson: 50 Word: 2

topple TOP ul

to overturn The rebels were able to topple the government. Synonyms : Antonyms : to stabilize Derivatives : toppled, topppling Lesson: 35 Word: 23

appease uh PEES

to pacify, to be conciliatory in a manner that sacrifices principles The woman tried to appease her husband when he became so angry. Synonyms : conciliate, mollify, placate, propitiate Antonyms : to incense Derivatives : appeased, appeasing, appeasement, appeasable, appeaser Lesson: 44 Word: 2

coddle KODD ul

to pamper, to treat with extreme care Mothers generally coddle their children when they are sick. Synonyms : Antonyms : to abuse Derivatives : coddled, coddling Lesson: 47 Word: 7

cajole kuh JOLE

to persuade with deliberate flattery, to coax, to wheedle I will not be cajoled into allowing you to stay up past your bedtime. Synonyms : Antonyms : to browbeat Derivatives : cajoled, cajoling, cajolery, cajoleries, cajolement, cajoler Lesson: 5 Word: 6

impale im PALE

to pierce, to fix on a pointed instrument Shish kebab can be prepared by impaling meat and vegetables on a skewer. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : impaled, impalement Lesson: 38 Word: 12

juxtapose JUK stuh poze

to place close together or side by side The huts in the village were never closely juxtaposed as one would imagine. Synonyms : Antonyms : to set far apart Derivatives : juxtaposed, juxtaposition, juxtapositional Lesson: 60 Word: 11

gambol GAM bul

to playfully skip or leap The young child laughed with glee as he began to gambol around the room. Synonyms : Antonyms : to trudge Derivatives : gamboled, gamboling Lesson: 38 Word: 9

muse MYOOZ

to ponder I have often mused about life on a tropical island. Synonyms : meditate, ruminate Antonyms : Derivatives : mused, museful, musefully, museless, musing Lesson: 39 Word: 20

laud LAWD

to praise, to extol Her performance was lauded by all of the critics. Synonyms : revere Antonyms : to defame Derivatives : laudability, laudable, laudableness Lesson: 1 Word: 15

extol ik STOLE

to praise, to glorify The teacher would always extol students who tried to do their best. Synonyms : Antonyms : to defame Derivatives : extolled, extolling, extollingly, extollment, extoller Lesson: 2 Word: 12

proffer PROF ur

to present for acceptance We found the terms of the loan proffered by the banker to be very satisfactory. Synonyms : offer, tender Antonyms : Derivatives : profferer Lesson: 56 Word: 17

malinger muh LING gur

to pretend or to feign illness to avoid work or duty Soldiers sometimes malinger in order to avoid going into battle. Synonyms : Antonyms : to perform dutifully Derivatives : malingerer, malingered, malingering Lesson: 45 Word: 14

protract pro TRAKT

to prolong The union hopes to protract the strike in order to force management to settle. Synonyms : Antonyms : to shorten Derivatives : protractedly, protractedness, pretractible, protraction, protractive Lesson: 13 Word: 21

perpetuate pur PECH oo ate

to prolong the existence of something The Audubon Society works to perpetuate the species of many threatened birds. Synonyms : Antonyms : to destroy Derivatives : perpetuation, perpetuator, perpetuity, perpetual, perpetually Lesson: 61 Word: 17

enunciate eh NUN see ate

to pronounce clearly Please enunciate your response so that everyone can understand you. Synonyms : Antonyms : to slur Derivatives : enunciable, enunciation, enunciative, enunciator Lesson: 24 Word: 9

remonstrate reh MON strate

to protest, to make objections I must remonstrate about the treatment of the residents of the rest home. Synonyms : Antonyms : to agree; to acquiesce Derivatives : remonstrance, remonstrancer, remonstrant, remonstrantly, remonstratingly, remonstration,remonstrative Lesson: 26 Word: 20

verify VER eh fie

to prove the truth of; to confirm; to substantiate You should verify your results before you present them. Synonyms : authenticate, validate Antonyms : Derivatives : verified, verifying, verifiability, verifiableness, verifiable Lesson: 45 Word: 24

reconcile REK un sile

to reestablish friendship, to resolve a dispute The family will never be the same until Mom and Grandma reconcile their differences. Synonyms : Antonyms : to alienate Derivatives : reconcilability, reconcilable, reconcilableness, reconcilably, reconcileness, reconcilement, reconciliate Lesson: 18 Word: 21

sublimate SUB luh mate

to refine or to transform a primitive impulse into one socially acceptable We are going to try to sublimate his natural rebelliousness into concern for righting the wrongs of mankind. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sublimation, sublimator Lesson: 61 Word: 24

abhor ab HOR

to regard with extreme repugnance; to detest utterly; to loathe If there is one particular food I abhor, it is hominy. Synonyms : despise, abominate Antonyms : to admire Derivatives : abhorred, abhorring, abhorrer, abhorrence, abhorrent, abhorrently Lesson: 7 Word: 1

deplore deh PLORE

to regret deeply or strongly; to feel or to express deep grief for The students deplored the death of their teacher. Synonyms : bemoan, bewail, lament, mourn Antonyms : to celebrate Derivatives : deplored, deploring, deploration, deplorer, deploringly Lesson: 13 Word: 7

spurn SPURN

to reject or to refuse with hostility The woman had always viewed the man with disdain and would spurn his attempts at friendship forever. Synonyms : Antonyms : to embrace Derivatives : spurner, spurned, spurning Lesson: 15 Word: 21

repudiate reh PYOO dee ate

to reject, to disown, to disavow He announced that he would repudiate all debts that had been created by his wife. Synonyms : Antonyms : to adopt Derivatives : repudiation, repudiationist, repudiator Lesson: 1 Word: 19

obliterate uh BLIT eh rate

to remove all traces of; to do away with; to destroy completely; to cancel The men began to obliterate the old building. Synonyms : expunge, efface Antonyms : Derivatives : obliterated, obliterating, obliterable, obliteration, obliterative Lesson: 11 Word: 16

excise ik SIZE

to remove by cutting Hopefully, the doctor can excise the cancer from his liver. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : excision, excisional Lesson: 29 Word: 11

expurgate EK spur gate

to remove obscene or objectionable material usually before publication The censors felt that certain words needed to be expurgated from the book. Synonyms : Antonyms : to include Derivatives : expurgation, expurgator, expurgatorial, expurgatory Lesson: 20 Word: 10

defuse dee FYOOZ

to remove or to lessen danger or hostility The crisis was defused when the army pulled back. Synonyms : Antonyms : to intensify, to escalate Derivatives : defused, defusing Lesson: 38 Word: 6

expunge ik SPUNJ

to remove, to erase Their names were expunged from the social register after they were convicted of selling cocaine. Synonyms : Antonyms : to add to Derivatives : expunged, expunging, expunction Lesson: 7 Word: 11

forswear fore SWARE

to renounce and to repudiate I had such a hangover this morning that I am going to forswear drinking. Synonyms : abjure, renounce, recant, retract Antonyms : to embrace eagerly Derivatives : forswore, foreswear, foresworn, foreswearing Lesson: 58 Word: 11

abdicate AB duh kayt

to renounce or to give up a power In order to marry the commoner, the king had to abdicate his throne. Synonyms : Antonyms : to usurp Derivatives : abdicable, abdicative, abdicator, abdicated, abdicating Lesson: 24 Word: 2

reiterate ree IT uh rate

to repeat I hope that I am not becoming redundant by again reiterating the key facts. Synonyms : Antonyms : to fail to repeat Derivatives : reiteration, reiteratedly, reiterative, reiteratively Lesson: 7 Word: 20

replicate REP luh kate

to repeat, to copy, or to duplicate I always try to replicate the moves of my tennis pro when I am taking a lesson. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make an original Derivatives : replication, replica, repliant Lesson: 40 Word: 23

repulse reh PULSE

to repel or to rebuff (usually with rudeness) His offensive language repulsed the girl; it did not impress her. Synonyms : Antonyms : to impress Derivatives : repulsive, repulsion, repulsively, repulsiveness Lesson: 44 Word: 19

supersede soo pur SEDE

to replace, to cause to be displaced or set aside This new law will supersede all previous laws. Synonyms : displace, supplant Antonyms : Derivatives : supersedure, supersedence Lesson: 37 Word: 22

mince MENS

to restrain one's speech or to euphemize in order to show politeness He does not like to mince words and thus will tell you bluntly what he thinks. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : minced, mincing, mincer Lesson: 60 Word: 13

grotto GROT oh

cave The bandits hid in a grotto and were not discovered. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : grottoed Lesson: 58 Word: 12

phobia FOE bee uh

fear of something or a situation I have a phobia of close spaces. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : phobias, phobiac, phobic Lesson: 50 Word: 15

fraught FRAWT

involving; full of; accompanied by This mission is an undertaking fraught with danger. Synonyms : Antonyms : lacking Derivatives : Lesson: 63 Word: 8

novice NOV is

a beginner A novice in swimming should stay in the shallow end of the pool until he is more skilled. Synonyms : apprentice, probationer, neophyte, tyro Antonyms : a veteran; a professional Derivatives : novicehood, novicelike, novitiate Lesson: 27 Word: 15

retinue RET uh noo

a body of retainers who follow a prince or other distinguished person It was the largest retinue ever to accompany the president on a trip. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : retinued Lesson: 36 Word: 19

tome TOME

a book that is a large volume I have purchased the history of England in ten tomes. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : tomes Lesson: 63 Word: 22

syllabus SIL uh bus

a brief outline of the main points of a text or course of study The syllabus that the professor gave to us stated that the final exam counts for 60% of our grade. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : syllabi, syllabuses Lesson: 24 Word: 22

contusion kun TOO shun

a bruise, an injury that does not break the skin I suffered a severe contusion on my leg while playing soccer. Synonyms : Antonyms : laceration Derivatives : contuse, contused, contusing, contusive Lesson: 62 Word: 4

equanimity ee kwuh NIM uh tee

a calm temper, an even disposition The rude behavior of the students did not disturb his equanimity. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of composure Derivatives : equanimous, equanimously Lesson: 34 Word: 7

transmutation trans myoo TAY shun

a change into something different The alchemist was interested in the transmutation of iron into gold. Synonyms : metamorphosis Antonyms : Derivatives : transmute, transmutability, transmutationist, transmutative Lesson: 46 Word: 23

idiosyncrasy id ee uh SING kruh see

a characteristic habit or mannerism that is peculiar to an individual Scratching his hand whenever he was nervous was an idiosyncrasy of the man. Synonyms : peculiarity, quirk Antonyms : Derivatives : idiosyncratic, idiosyncratically Lesson: 45 Word: 10

amulet AM yew let

a charm or ornament worn to protect against evil The princess wore the amulet to protect herself. Synonyms : Antonyms : hex Derivatives : amulets Lesson: 41 Word: 1

witticism WIT eh siz um

a clever and witty remark The speaker's witticism will be remembered long after he is gone. Synonyms : pun Antonyms : platitude Derivatives : witty Lesson: 51 Word: 25

phalanx FAY langks

a close arrangement of people or things When the rain began to pour down, the stadium became a phalanx of umbrellas. Synonyms : Antonyms : scattering Derivatives : phalanxes, phalanges Lesson: 59 Word: 17

buffoon buh FOON

a clown, a silly or stupid person Only a buffoon would stand on the table during the Christmas dinner. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : buffoonery, buffoonish Lesson: 21 Word: 4

blunderbuss BLUN der bus

a clumsy and careless person; an obsolete firearm with a bell muzzle The girl made so many embarrassing remarks that she felt like a blunderbuss. Synonyms : Antonyms : a poised and sophisticated person Derivatives : blunder, blunderer, blundering, blunderbusses Lesson: 47 Word: 5

menagerie muh NAJ uh ree

a collection of live wild animals on exhibition, a varied mixture Her collection of glass figurines was a beautiful menagerie. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : menagerist, menageries Lesson: 57 Word: 12

amalgam uh MAL gum

a combination of different elements His personality is a strange amalgam of different traits. Synonyms : Antonyms : individual units Derivatives : amalgamate, amalgamable, amalgamative, amalgamator, amalgamation Lesson: 55 Word: 2

advent AD vent

a coming or arrival The children anxiously awaited the advent of summer. Synonyms : Antonyms : departure, demise Derivatives : advential, adventism, adventist Lesson: 29 Word: 2

confluence KON floo uns

a coming together What is the name of the town that sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers? Synonyms : Antonyms : divergence Derivatives : confluent Lesson: 32 Word: 7

troupe TROOP

a company or group--usually theatrical performers A Shakespeare troupe is coming to town to perform Macbeth. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : trouper Lesson: 24 Word: 23

metamorphosis met uh MORE fuh

a complete change of form or structure; a complete change in appearance The metamorphosis of tadpoles into frogs is an amazing process. Synonyms : mutation, transmutation Antonyms : stasis Derivatives : metamorphous, metamorphic Lesson: 65 Word: 15

conglomerate kun GLOM ur it

a mixture of many things When the three companies merged, a giant conglomerate was formed. Synonyms : Antonyms : separated elements Derivatives : conglomerated, conglomerating, conglomeratic, conglomeritic, conglomeration Lesson: 37 Word: 5

paragon PAIR uh gon

a model of excellence or perfection The minister was a paragon of virtue in all his affairs. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : paragonize Lesson: 37 Word: 16

potentate POTE un tate

a monarch, very powerful ruler, sovereign There are many countries in the Middle East that are ruled by a potentate. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : potentates Lesson: 54 Word: 16

sphinx SFINGKS

a mysterious person or thing given to enigmatic questions or answers The man spoke in such riddles that he sounded like a sphinx. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sphingine, sphinxian, sphinx-like Lesson: 47 Word: 20

fissure FISH ur

a narrow opening produced by cleavage or separation of parts; cleft The men built a bridge across the fissure in the mountain. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : fissured, fissuring, fissural, fissureless Lesson: 65 Word: 10

Philistine FILL eh steen

a narrow-minded person who opposes or is indifferent to cultural values There are so many Philistines in this town that a bond issue for an art museum would never pass. Synonyms : Antonyms : an open-minded person Derivatives : Philistinic, Philistinism Lesson: 39 Word: 21

neologism nee OL uh jiz um

a newly coined word or phrase; new use of a word (often disapproved of) The student received a low grade because of the neologism in his paper. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : neology, neological, neologian, neologist, neologistic, neologize Lesson: 17 Word: 17

mural MYOOR ul

a painting on a wall or ceiling The artist was commissioned to paint a mural on the wall. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : muralist, murals Lesson: 41 Word: 11

alcove AL kove

a partially enclosed extension of a room or part of a room An alcove is to a room as an inlet is to a lake. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : alcoves Lesson: 30 Word: 2

mote MOTE

a particle or speck of dust A single mote with radioactive properties can have a cancerous effect on humans. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 44 Word: 13

vicissitude veh SIS eh tood

a passing from one thing to another, change of luck One can never get used to life's vicissitudes. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : vicissitudinous Lesson: 49 Word: 24

jubilee JOO buh lee

a period of rejoicing The year of jubilee was a time of happiness and celebrating. Synonyms : Antonyms : season of mourning Derivatives : jubilance, jubilant, jubilantly, jubilarian, jubilate, jubilation, jubilize Lesson: 64 Word: 10

sybarite SIB uh rite

a person devoted to luxury He is a sybarite and a hedonist and is quite different from his brother, the monk. Synonyms : Antonyms : ascetic Derivatives : sybaritic, sybaritical, sybaritically, sybaritish, sybaritism Lesson: 34 Word: 22

magnate MAG nate

a person of power and influence He was a film magnate who had great power to create a star. Synonyms : Antonyms : pauper Derivatives : magnateship Lesson: 41 Word: 10

demagogue DEM uh gog

a person or leader who appeals to passions or prejudices Hitler is an example of a demagogue who claimed power by appealing to people's emotions and prejudices. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : demagogic, demagogical, demagogically, demagogism, demagoguism, demagoguery, demagogy Lesson: 23 Word: 7

infidel IN feh dul

a person who has no religious faith; unbeliever The lack of religious values in society today point to the great numbers of infidels. Synonyms : atheist Antonyms : believer Derivatives : infidelity Lesson: 45 Word: 13

connoisseur kon uh SUR

a person who is able to be a judge in matters of art or taste My sister knows so much about wine that she might be considered a connoisseur. Synonyms : critic, aesthete Antonyms : Derivatives : connoisseurs, connoisseurship Lesson: 39 Word: 4

soothsayer SOOTH say ur

a person who is able to predict the future, seer After John Kennedy was shot, many self-proclaimed soothsayers claimed to have predicted the assassination. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : soothsay, soothsaying Lesson: 27 Word: 21

malcontent MAL kun tent

a person who is constantly dissatisfied and discontented The principal blamed the disturbance on malcontents who were never happy with anything. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : malcontented, malcontentedly, malcontentedness Lesson: 23 Word: 17

fugitive FYOO jeh tiv

a person who is elusive or hard to find, wandering The criminal became a fugitive who spent his life running from the law. Synonyms : ephemeral, evanescent, fleeting, transient, transitory Antonyms : firmly established Derivatives : fugitate, fugitation, fugitives, fugitively, fugitiveness, fugitivity Lesson: 65 Word: 12

discretion deh SKRESH un

ability to act on one's own power of individual decision The judge has wide discretion in the bail that he sets. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : discretional, discretionally, discretionary Lesson: 45 Word: 6

resilient reh ZIL yunt

ability to return to a former state There is a need for more resilient bumpers on cars that can withstand minor accidents. Synonyms : supple Antonyms : static Derivatives : resiliency, resiliently Lesson: 21 Word: 21

voluble VOL yuh bul

ability to use words easily, fluent and glib A disc jockey needs to be a voluble speaker. Synonyms : garrulous, loquacious Antonyms : taciturn Derivatives : volubility, volubleness, volubly Lesson: 7 Word: 25

solvent SOL vunt

able to pay debts I have become solvent now that I have received a raise in salary. Synonyms : Antonyms : broke; in debt Derivatives : solvency, solvently Lesson: 46 Word: 21

ambulatory AM bew luh tor ee

able to walk or move around I will be glad when I get out of this wheelchair and am ambulatory again. Synonyms : Antonyms : bedridden Derivatives : ambulant, ambulate, ambulated, ambulating, ambulation Lesson: 23 Word: 1

affluent uh FLU unt

abounding in wealth; prosperous; flowing freely Because the man was so affluent, he was able to donate large sums of money to the organization. Synonyms : rich, teeming Antonyms : impoverished Derivatives : affluence, affluently Lesson: 20 Word: 1

enmity EN muh tee

absolute hatred I have a lot of enmity for people who provide illegal drugs to children. Synonyms : animosity, animus, antagonism, antipathy, hostility, rancor Antonyms : love; admiration Derivatives : enmities Lesson: 6 Word: 9

disjunction dis JUNGK shun

act of disjoining The train wreck was caused by a disjunction of the tracks. Synonyms : Antonyms : union Derivatives : disjunctional, disjunctive, disjunctivity Lesson: 50 Word: 5

defamation def uh MAY shun

act of harming or ruining another's reputation The defamation of another's character is a horrible thing. Synonyms : Antonyms : adulation Derivatives : defamatory, defame, defamed, defamer, defamingly Lesson: 2 Word: 9

pedantry PED un tree

act of showing off learning in a manner that is needless and unimaginative The teacher's lectures are a demonstration of pedantry without scholarship. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : pedantic, pedantical, pedantically, pedanticism, pedant Lesson: 12 Word: 15

abandon (noun) uh BAN dun

act of unrestrained behavior disregarding consequences Some say Teddy Roosevelt charged up San Juan Hill with reckless abandon. Synonyms : license, laxity Antonyms : caution, self-restraint Derivatives : abandonable, abandoner, abandonment, abandoned, abandonedly Lesson: 35 Word: 1

resourceful reh SORS ful

acting effectively (usually in difficult situations) It will take a resourceful person to get out of this mess. Synonyms : Antonyms : unable to cope or adapt Derivatives : resourcefully, resourcefulness Lesson: 46 Word: 19

stealthy STEL the

acting in a secret and sneaky way--this is a negative term The secret organization moves by stealth to gather information on its enemies. Synonyms : clandestine, covert, furtive, surreptitious, underhanded Antonyms : open; indiscreet Derivatives : stealthful, stealthfully, stealthily, stealthiness, stealth Lesson: 16 Word: 23

perfunctory pur FUNGK tuh ree

acting routinely with little interest or care Due to his perfunctory manner of inspecting the factory, he did not notice some serious problems. Synonyms : Antonyms : concerned; diligent Derivatives : perfunctorily, perfunctoriness, perfunctorious, perfunctoriously Lesson: 5 Word: 25

commodious kuh MO dee us

affording ample space and room; adapted to or suitable for use The room was of a commodious, well-proportioned size. Synonyms : capacious, ample, serviceable Antonyms : cramped and crowded Derivatives : commodiously, commodiousness, commodity Lesson: 37 Word: 4

palatable PAL uh tuh bul

agreeable to the taste, acceptable I have never found it very palatable that girls in school can wear miniskirts but not shorts. Synonyms : Antonyms : distasteful Derivatives : palatableness, palatability, palatably Lesson: 38 Word: 17

amenity uh MEN uh tee

agreeable ways or manners; the quality of being agreeable or pleasant The woman was adored for her social amenities. Synonyms : courtesies, civilities Antonyms : unpleasant feature Derivatives : amenities Lesson: 32 Word: 1

concert KON surt

agreement in purpose or feeling, consensus My wife and children were in concert together to destroy me. Synonyms : Antonyms : discord Derivatives : concerted, concertedly Lesson: 32 Word: 6

accord uh KORD

agreement, state of harmony We are in accord concerning the method of handling this problem. Synonyms : Antonyms : disharmony; disagreement Derivatives : accordable, accorder, accordance, accordant Lesson: 18 Word: 1

concord KON kord

agreement; concurrence in attitudes, consensus There was complete concord among the delegates. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of harmony Derivatives : concordal, concordance, concordant, concordatory Lesson: 36 Word: 4

ancillary AN suh ler ee

aiding or accessory, subordinate to the main thing, supplementary While the main assault will be here, ancillary attacks will occur all along the coast. Synonyms : Antonyms : primary Derivatives : ancillaries Lesson: 64 Word: 1

hermetic hur MET ik

airtight It is important to preserve fruits and vegetables in a container with a hermetic seal in order to prevent spoilage. Synonyms : Antonyms : permeable Derivatives : hermetical, hermetically, hermetism, hermetist Lesson: 63 Word: 9

analogous uh NAHL uh gus

alike or similar in certain respects that permits one to draw an analogy The wings of a bird and those of an airplane are analogous. Synonyms : like Antonyms : unrelated Derivatives : analogously, analogize, analogy Lesson: 63 Word: 1

equivocal eh KWIV uh kul

ambiguous (usually intended to mislead) His speech was difficult to understand because of all his equivocal statements. Synonyms : abstruse, ambiguous, cryptic, enigmatic, obscure, recondite Antonyms : clear; straightforward Derivatives : equivocacy, equivocality, equivocally, equivocalness, equivocate, equivocation, equivocator, equivocity Lesson: 13 Word: 11

précis PRAY see, pray SEE

an abstract or summary We merely read a précis of the story instead of the complete work. Synonyms : digest, condensation Antonyms : complete work Derivatives : Lesson: 47 Word: 15

compilation kom puh LAY shun

an accumulation of many things The book was an interesting compilation of many sources. Synonyms : accretion Antonyms : Derivatives : compilator, compilatory, compile, compiled, compilement, compiler Lesson: 28 Word: 6

dilettante dil eh TANT tee

an aimless and superficial follower of the arts, a dabbler The dilettante could be seen at all the art exhibits though he was far from being an accomplished artist himself. Synonyms : amateur, tyro Antonyms : virtuoso; professional Derivatives : dilettantish, dilettantism, dilettantist Lesson: 25 Word: 7

surplus SUR plus

an amount that is more than what is needed The government purchases surplus wheat so that it is not thrown away. Synonyms : Antonyms : shortage Derivatives : surplusage Lesson: 35 Word: 22

rejoinder reh JOIN dur

an answer to a reply Her remarks drew a sharp rejoinder from the man. Synonyms : reply Antonyms : a question Derivatives : rejoin, rejoinders Lesson: 35 Word: 17

centrifuge SEN truh fyooj

an apparatus used for separating materials by the use of centrifugal force When milk is put into a centrifuge, the cream is separated and can be removed. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : centrifugal, centrifugally Lesson: 62 Word: 3

cavalier kav uh LEER

an armed horseman, a knight; treating important matters lightly His arrogant and cavalier attitude has offended many people. Synonyms : disdainful Antonyms : reserved; humble; meek Derivatives : cavalierly Lesson: 28 Word: 3

collage kuh LAHZ

an assembly of diverse things to make an artistic composition My girlfriend gave me a collage representing the time that we have dated. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : collages Lesson: 35 Word: 3

coven KUV un

an assembly of witches The ritual was being performed by a coven of witches. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : covens Lesson: 46 Word: 4

convocation kon vo KAY shun

an assembly where there is a coming together We always start the college fall semester with a general convocation. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : convocational, convoke, convoker Lesson: 64 Word: 3

anthology an THAH luh gee

an assortment or collection of selected pieces of literature or art The anthology we are using as a text contains many poems of various authors. Synonyms : Antonyms : novel Derivatives : anthological, anthologist, anthologize, anthologies Lesson: 34 Word: 2

obeisance oh BAY suns

an attitude of respect; a gesture made in token of respect The obeisance of the crowd characterized their respect for the speaker. Synonyms : reverence, deference, homage, honor Antonyms : disrespect; irreverence Derivatives : obeisant, obeisantly Lesson: 60 Word: 15

dictum DIK tum

an authoritative statement, decree The dictum from the Pope allows this activity. Synonyms : saying, maxim Antonyms : Derivatives : dicta Lesson: 29 Word: 8

neurotic noo ROT ik

an emotionally unstable person; emotionally unstable My mother is so neurotic that she is difficult to be around. Synonyms : Antonyms : mentally healthy; sound mind Derivatives : neurotically, neuroticism, neurotigenic Lesson: 18 Word: 17

anachronism uh NAK ruh neh sum

an error in chronology; a chronological misplacing of persons or events The movie, though entertaining, was not historically accurate and was full of glaring anachronisms. Synonyms : Antonyms : something chronologically correct Derivatives : anachronic, anachronical, anachronically, anachrously, anachronisms, anachronistic, anachronistical Lesson: 61 Word: 2

rudiment ROO duh munt

an essential element or skill, also the early stages of development Because he was not good at the rudiments of English, he had difficulty with his research paper. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : rudimental, rudimentarily, rudimentariness, rudimentary, rudimentation Lesson: 60 Word: 21

cataclysm KAT uh kliz um

an event or situation that causes a momentous change or upheaval The San Francisco earthquake was a cataclysmic event. Synonyms : calamity, catastrophe Antonyms : Derivatives : cataclysmic, cataclysmal Lesson: 27 Word: 5

expatriate eks PAY tree ate

an exile I am now living in the United States, but I am an expatriate of Russia. Synonyms : Antonyms : citizen Derivatives : expatriation, expatriated, expatriating Lesson: 18 Word: 10

jingoist JING go ist

an extreme patriot, usually calls for a belligerent foreign policy The jingoist was in the streets, loudly urging the public toward aggression against the foreign power. Synonyms : chauvinist, nationalist Antonyms : traitor Derivatives : jingoism, jingoish, jingoistic, jingoistically Lesson: 22 Word: 13

fledgling FLEJ ling

an immature or inexperienced person, a young bird that is ready to fly w w The rookie policeman is just a fledgling compared to the captain. Synonyms : Antonyms : veteran Derivatives : fledglings, fledgy, fledged Lesson: 23 Word: 12

proliferation pro lif uh RAY shun

an increase in number, multiplication Many are afraid of nuclear proliferation and the possibility that a terrorist country will explode a bomb. Synonyms : Antonyms : decline; decrease Derivatives : proliferate, proliferative, proliferous, proliferously, prolific Lesson: 8 Word: 20

aggrandizement uh GRAN diz munt

an increase, enlargement, or enhancement The discovery led to the aggrandizement of the scientist's reputation. Synonyms : Antonyms : diminution Derivatives : aggrandize, aggrandizer, aggrandized, aggrandizing Lesson: 53 Word: 1

maverick MAV er ik

an independent individual who does not go along with the group Eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes was a maverick in the fields of movie-making and airplane construction. Synonyms : Antonyms : conformist Derivatives : Lesson: 42 Word: 16

conjecture kun JEK chur

an inference or conclusion drawn or deduced by surmise or guesswork The theory that the scientist offered was only a matter of conjecture. Synonyms : supposition, surmise, guess Antonyms : verified statement Derivatives : conject, conjector, conjectural, conjecturally, conjectured, conjecturing, conjecturer Lesson: 57 Word: 4

query KWEER ee

an inquiry It is common for an author to send a query to a magazine editor to see if he will accept a manuscript. Synonyms : question, ask Antonyms : Derivatives : queries, queried, queryingly, queryist Lesson: 47 Word: 17

epitaph EP uh taf

an inscription in memory of a dead person (usually on a tombstone) She wants to write her own epitaph before she dies, rather than have someone else write it later. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : epitaphial, epitaphless, epitaphic Lesson: 33 Word: 6

scythe SITHE

an instrument for cutting or mowing We used a scythe to cut the exceedingly tall grasses. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : scytheless, scythestone Lesson: 47 Word: 19

calipers KAL uh purs

an instrument used to measure distances or diameters We learned in drafting class to measure distances with calipers. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : caliper Lesson: 56 Word: 3

preface PREF is

an introductory statement or part; something preliminary or introductory The accident was a preface to a great scientific discovery. Synonyms : introduction, preamble, prologue Antonyms : epilogue Derivatives : prefaced, prefacing, prefacer Lesson: 49 Word: 17

affront uh FRONT

an offensive act or word; an offense to one's dignity or self-respect I considered his rude remarks a personal affront. Synonyms : impertinence, contumely, scorn, indignity, abuse, outrage, Antonyms : Derivatives : affrontedly, affrontedness, affronter, affrontingly, affrontiveness Lesson: 30 Word: 1

sinecure SIE nuh kyoor, SIN uh

an office or position requiring little work In many cases the position of vice-president is a sinecure. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sinecureship, sinecurism, sinecurist Lesson: 62 Word: 20

augury AW gyuh ree

an omen or prophecy Several auguries were revealed to Caesar before his death. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : augur, auguries, augured Lesson: 39 Word: 2

parasite PAIR uh site

an organism that lives on another organism but contributes nothing A tapeworm is a commonly known parasite that lives in humans. Synonyms : Antonyms : self-sufficient individual Derivatives : parasital, parasitic, parasitary, parasitical, parasitically Lesson: 54 Word: 15

pariah puh RIE uh

an outcast He became a pariah among his friends when he admitted being a Nazi during the war. Synonyms : Antonyms : accepted citizen Derivatives : pariahdom, pariahism Lesson: 30 Word: 17

indignation in dig NAY shun

anger as a result of something unjust I have much indignation about the light sentence given to the drunk driver who ran over my child . Synonyms : fury, ire, rage, wrath Antonyms : serenity Derivatives : indignant, indignantly, indignance, indignify, indignities Lesson: 9 Word: 10

heralded HER ul did

announced or publicized The approaching event was heralded by the newspapers. Synonyms : Antonyms : unannounced Derivatives : heraldic, heraldically, heraldist, heraldry Lesson: 19 Word: 11

archaic are KAY ik

antiquated, old, out of use Words such as "thou", which are no longer part of normal vocabulary, are archaic. Synonyms : ancient, antique, obsolete, venerable Antonyms : contemporary; modern Derivatives : archaically, archaism, archaize, archaized, archaizing, archaizer Lesson: 4 Word: 3

montage mon TAZH

any combination of disparate elements that form a unified, single image His memory was a montage of varied experiences. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 31 Word: 15

travesty TRAV eh stee

any grotesque or debased likeness or imitation The outcome of that court ruling was a travesty of justice. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : travesties, travestied, travestying Lesson: 47 Word: 22

aloof uh LOOF

apart, indifferent The woman remained aloof during the party, separating herself from everyone else. Synonyms : detached, incurious, unconcerned Antonyms : integrated; friendly Derivatives : aloofness Lesson: 4 Word: 2

mnemonic nee MON ik

assisting or intended to assist the memory A string tied around the finger is a mnemonic device. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : mnemonics, mnemotechnical, mnemotechnically Lesson: 63 Word: 14

personification pur son uh fuh KAY

attribution of personal qualities Through the personification in the poem the trees seem to be human. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : personify, personificative, personificator, personifier Lesson: 44 Word: 15

influence IN floo uns

authority, prestige Because he has much influence with the President, his friendship should be sought. Synonyms : Antonyms : powerlessness Derivatives : influenceability, influenceable, influences, influenced, influencing Lesson: 54 Word: 9

symmetry SIM eh tree

balanced proportions The symmetry of the gardens of Versailles creates a beautiful and balanced atmosphere. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of balance Derivatives : symmetrical, symmetric, symmetrically, symmetricalness, symmetrization, symmetrize Lesson: 2 Word: 23

empirical em PEER eh kul

based on observation or experiment and not on theory We need some empirical data to make our case solid. Synonyms : Antonyms : theoretical Derivatives : empiric, empiricism, empiricist, empirics, empirism Lesson: 8 Word: 10

supplication sup luh KAY shun

begging, humbly asking for a favor I am going to see the Governor to make a supplication for a pardon for my brother. Synonyms : adjuration, beseechment, entreaty, imploration, importunity Antonyms : Derivatives : supplicate, supplicatingly, supplicator, supplicatory Lesson: 44 Word: 22

incipient in SIP ee unt

beginning to come into being, the early stage of something He is not able to recognize his own incipient drug problem. Synonyms : Antonyms : waning Derivatives : incipiative, incipiency, incipience, incipiently Lesson: 29 Word: 15

venturesome VEN chur sum

being bold and taking risks Columbus was venturesome in seeking to find India by sailing west. Synonyms : Antonyms : cautious Derivatives : venturesomely, venturesomeness, venture Lesson: 44 Word: 24

incrustation in kruh STAY shun

being covered with a crust, state of being encrusted The incrustation of deleterious habits has become the focal point for many self-help groups. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : incrustate, incrustated, incrustating Lesson: 63 Word: 10

germinal JUR muh nul

being in the earliest stage of development The project was still in its germinal stages when it was cancelled. Synonyms : Antonyms : fully developed Derivatives : germinability, germinable, geminally, germinate Lesson: 50 Word: 10

morose muh ROSE

being sullen or gloomy He was very morose after his wife left him. Synonyms : crabbed, glum, saturnine, sulky, surly Antonyms : cheerful Derivatives : morosely, moroseness, morosity Lesson: 7 Word: 16

fatalistic fate uh LIS tik

belief that events are predetermined and cannot be altered Giving up because you believe you're doomed to failure is a fatalistic attitude. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : fatalist, fatalism, fatalistically Lesson: 45 Word: 8

credulous KREJ uh lus

believing on slight evidence, gullible Because the lady's horoscope said that she should stay inside, the credulous woman did not go to work. Synonyms : Antonyms : suspicious Derivatives : credulously, credulousness, credulity Lesson: 3 Word: 5

temerity tuh MER uh tee

boldness that is foolhardy I can't believe that he has the temerity to talk back to his commanding officer. Synonyms : audacity, cheek, chutzpah, effrontery, gall, hardihood, nerve Antonyms : reserve Derivatives : temerariousness, temerarious, temerariously Lesson: 38 Word: 24

insipid in SIP id

boring and stupid I am bored by your insipid talk. Synonyms : banal, flat, inane, jejune, vapid Antonyms : spirited and animated; zestful Derivatives : insipidity, insipidly, insipidness Lesson: 1 Word: 13

abyss uh BISS

bottomless hole, a vast expanse or depth The man had fallen into the abyss of depravity. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : abysm, abysmal, abysmally, abyssal Lesson: 27 Word: 1

presumptuous preh ZUMP choo us

brazenly overstepping bounds, arrogant It was presumptuous of him to think that I would loan him the money. Synonyms : Antonyms : humble Derivatives : presume, presumer, presumption, presumptive, presumptively, presumptuously, presumptuousness Lesson: 31 Word: 18

succinct suk SINGKT

brief, compact Because her comments were succinct and to the point the ceremony was brief. Synonyms : compendious, concise, laconic, pithy, summary, terse Antonyms : frequently digressing Derivatives : succinctly, succinctness Lesson: 16 Word: 24

vivid VIV id

bright, distinct, and clear I have vivid memories of my trip to Europe. Synonyms : graphic Antonyms : lackluster Derivatives : vividly, vividness, vividity, vivific, vivificate, vivification, vivifier, vivify Lesson: 6 Word: 25

resplendent reh SPLEN dunt

brilliant, shining The resplendent fireworks display pleased the Fourth of July crowd. Synonyms : sublime, superb Antonyms : dim Derivatives : resplendence, resplendency, resplendently Lesson: 34 Word: 18

perfidious pur FID ee us

calculated to deceive; deceitful; treacherous You show a lack of character by spreading perfidious stories about your brother. Synonyms : Antonyms : honest; trustworthy Derivatives : perfidiously, perfidiousness, perfidy Lesson: 36 Word: 16

evocative eh VOK uh tiv

calling forth, calling to mind The play was evocative in that it made me recall my youth. Synonyms : Antonyms : forgetful Derivatives : evocatively, evocativeness, evocatory, evocator, evocation, evoke Lesson: 37 Word: 8

serene suh REEN

calm, placid The mountain on a clear spring morning is a serene setting. Synonyms : tranquil Antonyms : agitated Derivatives : serenely, sereneness, serenity Lesson: 1 Word: 22

indelible in DEL uh bul

cannot be removed, washed away or erased Her comments made an indelible impression on his mind, and he was never able to forget. Synonyms : permanent, lasting Antonyms : fleeting Derivatives : indelibility,indelibly Lesson: 11 Word: 13

venal VEEN ul

capable of being bribed or corrupted Venal politicians are an affront to democracy. Synonyms : Antonyms : honest; upright Derivatives : venality, venally, venalness Lesson: 64 Word: 23

tractable TRAK tuh bul

capable of being easily led, taught, or controlled; obedient It is odd that the students in first period are so unruly, while those in second period are very tractable. Synonyms : amenable, docile Antonyms : willful; unruly Derivatives : tractability, tractableness, tractably Lesson: 21 Word: 24

ductile DUK tul

capable of being fashioned into a new form The crowd seemed like a ductile mass easily swayed in any direction. Synonyms : pliable, pliant, malleable, adaptable Antonyms : unmalleable Derivatives : ductible, ductilely, ductility Lesson: 64 Word: 5

enthralling en THROL ing

captivating, spellbinding Because the book was so enthralling, I stayed awake all night reading it. Synonyms : Antonyms : boring Derivatives : enthrall, enthralled, enthrallingly, enthrallment Lesson: 47 Word: 10

circumspect SIR kum spekt

careful to consider consequences, cautious, prudent Her circumspect behavior left no doubts as to her integrity. Synonyms : chary, wary Antonyms : reckless; careless; indiscreet Derivatives : circumspectness, circumspectly, circumspection, circumspective Lesson: 8 Word: 5

chary SHAR ee

careful, cautious He is chary when he meets a new person. Synonyms : circumspect, wary Antonyms : trustful; uncritical Derivatives : charier, chariest Lesson: 31 Word: 5

invidious in VID ee us

causing animosity or resentment; hateful; offensive We were quite resentful about the man's invidious remarks. Synonyms : Antonyms : pleasant; soothing; kind Derivatives : invidiously, invidiousness Lesson: 55 Word: 9

analgesic an el GEE sik

causing insensitivity to pain A dentist uses a variety of analgesic drugs. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : analgesia Lesson: 62 Word: 2

stultifying STUL tuh fie ing

causing to be useless, crippling, causing to appear stupid The teacher stultifies his position in the classroom if he permits bad behavior. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : stultification Lesson: 24 Word: 21

searing SEER ing

causing to wither or to dry up or to become scorched One could easily die in the searing heat of the Mojave desert. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : sear, seared, searingly Lesson: 48 Word: 20

acrimonious ak ruh MONE ee us

caustic The prisoner of war had acrimonious remarks for those that mistreated him. Synonyms : Antonyms : cordial Derivatives : acrimony, acrimoniously, acrimoniousness Lesson: 5 Word: 1

acrid AK rid

caustic, bitter, harsh (relates sometimes to taste and smell) The acrid odor in the restaurant caused me to leave. Synonyms : caustic, mordant, scathing Antonyms : agreeable Derivatives : acridity, acridness, acridly Lesson: 27 Word: 2

crass KRASS

coarse, crude, and unrefined Using foul language in front of your mother is crass. Synonyms : Antonyms : refined; sophisticated Derivatives : crassly, crassness, crassitude Lesson: 9 Word: 3

hues HYOOZ

colors A rainbow has many hues. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : hue, hueless, hued Lesson: 39 Word: 14

synthesis SIN thuh sis

combining parts into a whole Before the project is complete, we need to establish synthesis. Synonyms : Antonyms : disjoining Derivatives : synthesist, synthesize, synthesizer Lesson: 7 Word: 22

zany ZAY nee

comical and outlandish The zany clown made the children laugh. Synonyms : Antonyms : solemn Derivatives : zanies, zanyism Lesson: 37 Word: 25

eclectic eh KLEK tik

coming from a variety of diverse sources His eclectic tastes range from Bach to the Beatles. Synonyms : Antonyms : from one source Derivatives : eclectically, eclecticism Lesson: 12 Word: 7

rife RIFE

common in occurrence, abundant The AIDS virus is rife among intravenous drug-users. Synonyms : Antonyms : rare Derivatives : rifely, rifeness Lesson: 55 Word: 18

banal BANE ul, buh NAL

common, ordinary, lacking freshness, hackneyed Because of his use of overused trite remarks, his speeches are banal. Synonyms : inane, insipid, jejune, vapid Antonyms : fresh, unique, extraordinary Derivatives : banality, banally Lesson: 2 Word: 5

prosaic pro ZAY ik

commonplace, uninspired, banal Because his writings are so prosaic, I find them boring and unimaginative. Synonyms : Antonyms : imaginative Derivatives : prosaical, prosaically, prosaicalness, prosaicism, prosaism, prosaist Lesson: 11 Word: 21

necromancy NEK ruh man see

communicating with spirits, black magic The members of the tribe believed that the witch doctor could perform feats of necromancy. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : necromancing, necromancer, necromant, necromantically, necromantical, necromantic Lesson: 54 Word: 13

metaphorically met uh FOR ik lee

compared nonliterally Metaphorically speaking, he is drowning in oil. Synonyms : Antonyms : literally Derivatives : metaphor, metaphorical, metaphoricalness, metaphorist, metaphorize Lesson: 21 Word: 16

reparation rep uh RAY shun

compensation to one who has suffered Vietnam is seeking reparations from the United States for the damage that it suffered during the war. Synonyms : redress, amends, restitution Antonyms : Derivatives : reparative, reparatory Lesson: 62 Word: 18

engrossed en GROSD

completely occupied or absorbed The woman was so engrossed in her knitting that she did not notice her child walk out the door. Synonyms : preoccupied Antonyms : Derivatives : engross, engrossing, engrossedly, engrosser, engrossingly, engrossingness, engrossment Lesson: 23 Word: 10

terse TERS

concise The president gave a terse statement dismissing the charges of the opposing party. Synonyms : compendious, laconic, pithy, succinct, summary Antonyms : long-winded Derivatives : tersely, terseness Lesson: 9 Word: 23

genial JEAN yul, JEAN ee ul

cordial; pleasantly warm The woman has such a genial disposition that people love to be around her. Synonyms : friendly, hearty, pleasant, agreeable, kindly Antonyms : sullen Derivatives : genially, genialness Lesson: 48 Word: 9

propriety pruh PRY eh tee

correct conduct Those who attend the club meetings should conduct themselves with propriety. Synonyms : Antonyms : indecorum Derivatives : proprieties Lesson: 61 Word: 19

guise GIZE

costume or outward appearance In the guise of a banker, the FBI agent investigated a counterfeit money case. Synonyms : Antonyms : true appearance Derivatives : guised, guising Lesson: 42 Word: 6

mettle MET ul

courage or spirit A crisis like this would test anyone's mettle. Synonyms : resolution, tenacity Antonyms : lack of courage Derivatives : mettles, mettled, mettlesome Lesson: 61 Word: 13

cordial KOR jul

courteous and gracious; friendly; warm We received a very cordial reception from the hostess of the party. Synonyms : affectionate, genial, cheering Antonyms : Derivatives : cordially, cordialness, cordiality Lesson: 13 Word: 5

deference DEF ur uns

courteous going along with the opinions or wishes of another In deference to your wishes, I will not see him again. Synonyms : homage, reverence, respect Antonyms : disrespect Derivatives : deferential, deferentially, deferentiality Lesson: 24 Word: 7

precarious pre KARE ee us

dangerous, risky, not a secure situation It seems that a tightrope walker is often in a precarious situation. Synonyms : Antonyms : safe Derivatives : precariously, precariousness Lesson: 11 Word: 20

reverie REV uh ree

daydreaming Spring seems to lend itself to reverie. Synonyms : Antonyms : attentiveness Derivatives : reveries, reverist Lesson: 52 Word: 20

visceral VIS ur ul

dealing with coarse or base emotions; earthly, crude J.D. Salinger often used a visceral writing style in his work. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : viscerally Lesson: 53 Word: 24

cosmopolitan koz muh POL uh tun

dealing with the whole world His cosmopolitan views make him a natural delegate to the world convention. Synonyms : Antonyms : parochial Derivatives : cosmopolitanism, cosmopolite Lesson: 13 Word: 6

decadent DEK uh dunt

decaying Drugs, prostitution, and crime are signs of a decadent society. Synonyms : declined, degenerated Antonyms : flourishing Derivatives : decadently, decadence, decadency Lesson: 10 Word: 7

guile GILE

deceitfulness, duplicity The woman was the unfortunate victim of guile and deceit when she lost her money to that swindler. Synonyms : Antonyms : openness; candor Derivatives : guileful, guilefully, guilefulness, guileness, guilelessly, guilelessness, guilery Lesson: 7 Word: 12

desolate DES uh lit

deserted, without inhabitants, barren Some of the western states have large areas that are desolate. Synonyms : Antonyms : populous Derivatives : desolately, desolateness, desolater, desolating, desolation Lesson: 11 Word: 6

reprehensible rep reh HEN suh bul

deserving blame or reprimand Some think that kissing on the first date is reprehensible conduct. Synonyms : blameworthy, censurable, condemnable, reprobatory Antonyms : praiseworthy Derivatives : reprehend, reprehensibility, reprehensibly, reprehension, reprehensive, reprehensory Lesson: 55 Word: 17

culpable KUL puh bul

deserving blame; guilty He was culpable for his children's constant bad behavior. Synonyms : Antonyms : blameless Derivatives : culpability, culpableness, culpably Lesson: 10 Word: 6

odious OH dee us

deserving hate or contempt Pornography is an odious business. Synonyms : Antonyms : respectable Derivatives : odiously, odiousness, odium Lesson: 13 Word: 17

meritorious mer eh TOR ee us

deserving of honor or praise As a result of his meritorious behavior, the soldier was given a medal. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : meritoriously, meritoriousness Lesson: 58 Word: 14

malice MAL is

desire to harm others His death was caused by malice and was not accidental. Synonyms : malevolence, malignity, spite, spleen Antonyms : concern Derivatives : maliceful, malicious, maliciously, maliciousness Lesson: 5 Word: 21

blighted BLIE ted

destroyed or caused by decline or decay The blighted fruit had to be separated from the rest. Synonyms : Antonyms : good; healthy; wholesome Derivatives : blight Lesson: 31 Word: 3

baleful BALE ful

destructive, deadly War is a baleful experience for many. Synonyms : malign, sinister Antonyms : benign Derivatives : bale, balefully, balefulness Lesson: 27 Word: 4

travail truh VALE

difficult labor It took years of travail to build this business. Synonyms : Antonyms : relaxing diversion Derivatives : travails Lesson: 27 Word: 23

plight PLITE

difficult or adverse situation My plight is that I do not have enough money to pay my bills. Synonyms : Antonyms : fortunate situation Derivatives : plights, plighted, plighting Lesson: 17 Word: 19

cumbersome KUM bur sum

difficult to handle, unwieldy Carrying all of these books is a cumbersome task. Synonyms : cumbrous, ponderous Antonyms : easily handled Derivatives : cumbersomely, cumbersomeness, cumbrous, cumbrously, cumbrousness Lesson: 49 Word: 5

unwieldy un WEEL dee

difficult to manage due to size I was not able to move the unwieldy cabinet by myself. Synonyms : Antonyms : of manageable size Derivatives : unwieldily, unwieldiness, unwieldly Lesson: 57 Word: 24

obscure ub SKYOOR

difficult to see, vague Because the meaning of the play was obscure, I was unable to enjoy it. Synonyms : abstruse, ambiguous, cryptic, enigmatic, equivocal, recondite Antonyms : clear; apparent Derivatives : obscuration, obscurative, obscuredly, obscurely, obscurement, obscureness, obscurity Lesson: 1 Word: 16

abstruse ab STRUSE

difficult to understand, recondite, concealed Some concepts of Einstein were so abstruse that many physicists could not understand them. Synonyms : complex, complicated, intricate, knotty Antonyms : readily understood; clear Derivatives : abstrusely, abstruseness Lesson: 3 Word: 1

inscrutable in SKROO tuh bul

difficult to understand; mysterious He had us all confused with his inscrutable smile. Synonyms : Antonyms : clear; readable; understandable Derivatives : inscrutableness, inscrutably, inscrutability Lesson: 5 Word: 19

stately STATE lee

dignified, majestic The general's funeral procession was stately as it wound through the streets of the city. Synonyms : grand, grandiose, imposing, magnificent Antonyms : humble Derivatives : stateliness, statlier, statelily Lesson: 52 Word: 22

quandary KWON duh ree

dilemma She was in a quandary because two boys whom she liked wanted to take her to the senior prom. Synonyms : Antonyms : state of peace and calm Derivatives : quandaries Lesson: 29 Word: 19

diminution dim uh NOO shun

diminishment, reduction The diminution of nuclear weapons is a goal of arms control. Synonyms : Antonyms : escalation Derivatives : diminutive, diminutival, diminutively, diminutiveness Lesson: 16 Word: 10

insubordination in suh bor duh NAY

disobedience to authority The student was reprimanded for his insubordination to the teacher. Synonyms : Antonyms : obedience Derivatives : insubordinate, insubordinately Lesson: 31 Word: 13

heedless HEED les

disregarding, thoughtless He walked on, heedless of the signs warning about the mine field. Synonyms : Antonyms : aware; concerned; attentive Derivatives : heed, heeded, heeding, heeds, heedlessly, heedful, heedfully Lesson: 30 Word: 11

impudent IM pyuh dunt

disrespectful, characterized by improper bold behavior The student's impudent act of using profanity toward Mrs. Dove caused him to be expelled. Synonyms : Antonyms : respectful Derivatives : impudence, impudency, impudently, impudentness, impudicity Lesson: 35 Word: 9

unpalatable un PAL eh tuh bul

distasteful, unpleasant, disagreeable The speaker made harshly unpalatable but honest statements. Synonyms : Antonyms : agreeable; tasty Derivatives : unpalatableness, unpalatably Lesson: 33 Word: 24

dissected deh SEK tid

divided into numerous segments or parts In biology today I dissected a frog. Synonyms : Antonyms : whole Derivatives : dissect, dissecting, dissection, dissectional, dissective, dissector Lesson: 36 Word: 7

polarization poe lur eh ZAY shun

division into two opposite positions There is a polarization in the school district between those who want a smoking area and those who do not. Synonyms : Antonyms : consolidation Derivatives : polarize, polarizing, polarizer, polarizable, polarizability Lesson: 35 Word: 15

giddy GID ee

dizzy I became giddy after drinking the champagne at the reception. Synonyms : Antonyms : levelheaded Derivatives : giddify, giddily, giddiness Lesson: 21 Word: 12

ascendancy uh SIN dun see

domination; growing power The United States would not patiently submit to the ascendancy of Hitler. Synonyms : Antonyms : decline Derivatives : ascendance, ascend, ascendant, ascension, ascending, ascended Lesson: 6 Word: 3

expeditious ek speh DISH us

done with speed and efficiency You need to be expeditious in solving this matter. Synonyms : Antonyms : sluggish Derivatives : expedite, expediter, expedition, expeditionary, expeditioner, expeditiously, expeditiousness, expeditive Lesson: 13 Word: 12

duplicity doo PLIS eh tee

double-dealing, hypocrisy His duplicity was exposed when the girl he was seeing found out he was married. Synonyms : Antonyms : sincerity; single-mindedness Derivatives : duplicitous Lesson: 4 Word: 12

supple SUP ul

easily bent, elastic, pliable Her supple bones allowed her to perform strange feats in gymnastics. Synonyms : resilient Antonyms : rigid Derivatives : suppler, supplest Lesson: 27 Word: 22

docile DOS ul

easily managed, obedient, passive The dog was docile until the doorbell rang. Synonyms : amenable, tractable Antonyms : unruly; unmanageable Derivatives : docible, docibility, docilely, docility Lesson: 9 Word: 5

commensurate kuh MEN sur it

equal I hope that I get a reward that is commensurate with what I have found. Synonyms : Antonyms : disproportionate; unequal Derivatives : commensurately, commensuration, commensurable, commensurability, commensurably Lesson: 16 Word: 7

tantamount TAN tuh mount

equivalent in value or significance In my father's eyes anything less than an "A" is tantamount to failure. Synonyms : Antonyms : unlike in significance Derivatives : Lesson: 26 Word: 23

integral IN tuh grul

essential for completeness We will not trade him because he is an integral part of our team. Synonyms : Antonyms : nonessential Derivatives : integrality Lesson: 49 Word: 12

esteem eh STEEM

estimate of value; approval and respect often blended with fondness The people held their leader in the highest esteem. Synonyms : regard, valuation, reputation Antonyms : disrespect Derivatives : esteemed, esteeming, esteems, esteemable Lesson: 18 Word: 9

perdition pur DISH un

eternal damnation, utter ruin The church warns against pursuing hedonistic and worldly things and risking eternal perdition. Synonyms : Antonyms : salvation Derivatives : perditions Lesson: 65 Word: 18

temperate TEM pur ut

exercising self-control Seeing the devastating effects of alcohol on his father, he was temperate in his own liquor consumption. Synonyms : Antonyms : extreme Derivatives : temperance, temperately, temperateness Lesson: 57 Word: 22

motley MOT lee

exhibiting great diversity of elements; heterogeneous The rally for environmental concerns drew a motley crowd. Synonyms : Antonyms : homogenous Derivatives : motleys Lesson: 45 Word: 15

congenital kun JEN uh tul

existing at birth or dating from birth Due to the abuse of drugs, hundreds of babies are born with congenital birth defects each year. Synonyms : Antonyms : acquired Derivatives : congenitally Lesson: 56 Word: 4

innate eh NATE

existing from birth, inborn He has innate athletic talents that cannot be taught. Synonyms : Antonyms : learned Derivatives : innated, innately, innateness, innatism, innative Lesson: 2 Word: 17

dilation die LAY shun

expansion Some drugs will cause the dilation of the pupil of the eye. Synonyms : amplification, distention, inflation, swelling Antonyms : constriction Derivatives : dilate, dilated, dilatedly, dilatedness, dilative Lesson: 30 Word: 7

seasoned SEE zond

experienced This team needs a seasoned veteran to provide some leadership. Synonyms : Antonyms : inexperienced Derivatives : seasonable, seasonableness, seasonably Lesson: 49 Word: 21

vicarious vie KARE ee us

experienced through imagined participation in another's activity Many people who watch football experience a vicarious release of aggression. Synonyms : Antonyms : firsthand Derivatives : vicariate, vicarism, vicariously, vicariousness Lesson: 36 Word: 24

ardent AR dunt

expressing strong feelings, impassioned, zealous He was ardent in his support of civil rights. Synonyms : fervent, fervid, passionate, perfervid Antonyms : unmoved; perfunctory Derivatives : ardently Lesson: 40 Word: 3

prodigious pruh DIJ us

extraordinary in bulk, quantity, or degree, great in size, enormous His prodigious appetite allowed him to eat the entire turkey. Synonyms : Antonyms : puny; minuscule Derivatives : prodigiously, prodigiousness Lesson: 14 Word: 20

profuse pruh FYOOS

extravagantly abundant, flowing freely Cutting that artery will cause profuse bleeding. Synonyms : lavish, lush, luxuriant, prodigal Antonyms : meager Derivatives : profusely, profuseness, profusion, profusive, profusively Lesson: 9 Word: 19

effrontery eh FRUN tuh ree

extreme boldness, audacity I can't believe you had the effrontery to say such a rude thing to your parents. Synonyms : cheek, chutzpah, gall, hardihood, nerve, temerity Antonyms : diffidence Derivatives : effronteries Lesson: 38 Word: 7

hydrophobia high druh FOE bee uh

fear of water He never learned to swim because of his hydrophobia. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : hydrophobic, hydrophobicity, hydrophobous Lesson: 51 Word: 10

spurious SPYOOR ee us

false or deceitful Cashing forged checks is a spurious activity. Synonyms : Antonyms : honest Derivatives : spuriously, spuriousness Lesson: 21 Word: 23

perjury PUR juh ree

false testimony under oath He was charged with perjury for lying to the grand jury. Synonyms : Antonyms : truthful testimony Derivatives : perjure, perjured, perjuring, perjurer, perjurious, perjuriously, perjuriousness, perjurous Lesson: 6 Word: 21

irreproachable ear eh PRO chuh bul

faultless, not discreditable The woman's morals are so high that she is irreproachable. Synonyms : Antonyms : wrong; faulty Derivatives : irreproachability, irreproachableness, irreproachably Lesson: 20 Word: 14

auspicious aw SPISH us

favorable Making an "A" on the first test was an auspicious way to begin the year. Synonyms : propitious Antonyms : ill-omened Derivatives : auspiciously, auspiciousness Lesson: 13 Word: 3

boon BOON

favorable; a blessing, a benefit Hiring that young man was a boon for our company. Synonyms : Antonyms : curse Derivatives : boons, boonless Lesson: 21 Word: 3

propitious pruh PISH us

favorably disposed, graciously inclined America has conditions propitious to democracy. Synonyms : helpful, advantageous, benevolent, favorable, auspicious Antonyms : unfavorable; inauspicious Derivatives : propitiously, propitiousness, propitiate, propitiated, propitiatory Lesson: 28 Word: 16

evanescent ev uh NES unt

fleeting; impermanent The evanescent sounds of applause are not what keeps the artist performing. Synonyms : ephemeral, fugitive, transient, transitory Antonyms : permanent Derivatives : evanescence, evanesce, evanescently Lesson: 41 Word: 6

lithe LIETH

flexible and graceful Ballet is a dance for lithe dancers. Synonyms : Antonyms : inflexible Derivatives : lithely Lesson: 36 Word: 12

tenuous TEN yoo us

flimsy, barely attached His position with the law firm became tenuous when he objected to hiring women. Synonyms : Antonyms : firm or substantial Derivatives : tenuously, tenuousness, tenuity Lesson: 30 Word: 24

florid FLOR id

flowery, flushed with color His face becomes florid when he gets angry. Synonyms : Antonyms : plain; simple; pale Derivatives : floridity, floridly, floridness Lesson: 31 Word: 10

convivial kun VIV ee ul

fond of good company and of festivity He was of the convivial sort, fond of people, parties, and pleasures. Synonyms : friendly, sociable Antonyms : unsociable Derivatives : conviviality, convivially, convivium, convivia Lesson: 30 Word: 6

fatuous FACH oo us

foolish, silly in an obnoxious way, inane The woman was fatuous to think that she needed three thousand pairs of shoes. Synonyms : asinine, silly, simple Antonyms : sensible Derivatives : fatuously, fatuity, fatuitous, fatuitousness Lesson: 10 Word: 9

malodorous mal OH dur us

foul-smelling, highly improper Insider trading is a malodorous practice that should be punished. Synonyms : fetid, fusty, musty, noisome, putrid, rancid, rank Antonyms : aromatic Derivatives : malodor, malodorant Lesson: 46 Word: 12

gratis GRAH tis

free The gratis appearance of the artist allowed more funds for the charity ball. Synonyms : Antonyms : earned Derivatives : gratitude, gratuitous, gratuitously Lesson: 39 Word: 13

impeccable im PEK uh bul

free from fault or blame She was a woman of impeccable character and could not be blamed for the smallest wrongdoing. Synonyms : flawless, irreproachable Antonyms : flawed Derivatives : impeccability, impeccableness, impeccably Lesson: 15 Word: 12

latitude LAT eh tood

freedom of action or opinion College students are given much latitude in the selection of their courses. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of freedom Derivatives : latitudinal, latitudinally, latitudinarian Lesson: 51 Word: 12

frenetic fruh NET ik

frenzied, frantic The mother became frenetic when the chicken bone lodged in her baby's throat. Synonyms : Antonyms : calm; serene Derivatives : frenetically, frenetical Lesson: 37 Word: 9

verdant VUR dunt

fresh and green The verdant golf course was in great shape for the tournament. Synonyms : Antonyms : barren Derivatives : verdancy Lesson: 37 Word: 24

grisly GRIS lee

ghastly, inspiring fear The scene of the car accident was a grisly sight. Synonyms : gruesome, lurid, macabre Antonyms : attractive Derivatives : grisliness, grisliest Lesson: 37 Word: 10

gratuitous gruh TOO eh tus

given freely, unwarranted I resent your gratuitous comments because no one asked for them. Synonyms : Antonyms : demanded Derivatives : gratis, gratuitous, gratuitousness, gratuital, gratuitously Lesson: 9 Word: 8

sententious sen TEN shus

given to excessive moralizing The sententious expression "contentment breeds happiness" is not readily accepted by everyone. Synonyms : expressive, pithy, epigrammatic Antonyms : Derivatives : sententiously, sententiousness Lesson: 54 Word: 20

cynical SIN uh kul

given to faultfinding, sneering, and sarcasm; exhibiting mocking disbelief Some people are so cynical they sneer at everything that would make life worthwhile. Synonyms : misanthropic, pessimistic, misogynic Antonyms : Derivatives : cynic, cynically, cynicism Lesson: 15 Word: 7

jocose joe KOSE

given to jokes and jesting The teacher was not amused by the jocose remarks of the class clown. Synonyms : witty, facetious, jocular Antonyms : Derivatives : jocosely, jocoseness, jocosity Lesson: 63 Word: 12

mirth MURTH

gladness and merriment usually accompanied by laughter The party was a source of mirth and gaiety. Synonyms : glee, hilarity, jollity Antonyms : sadness Derivatives : mirthful, mirthfully, mirthfulness, mirthless, mirthlessly, mirthlessness Lesson: 17 Word: 15

burly BUR lee

great in bodily size, sturdy; brusque When we saw the burly man appear in the door, we knew it was no time to pick a fight. Synonyms : Antonyms : slight; refined; mannered Derivatives : burlier, burliest, burlily, burliness Lesson: 28 Word: 2

multifarious mul tuh FARE ee us

great in variety, diverse He is valuable because of his multifarious talents. Synonyms : Antonyms : limited in variety Derivatives : multifariously, multifariousness Lesson: 40 Word: 17

supercilious soo pur SIL ee us

haughty, vain and arrogant I do not like your arrogant and supercilious attitude toward poor people. Synonyms : disdainful, high-handed, insolent, lordly Antonyms : servile Derivatives : superciliously, superciliousness Lesson: 15 Word: 22

cognate KOG nate

having a common ancestor, related in origin Cognate languages are those that developed from a common language. Synonyms : Antonyms : unrelated Derivatives : cognation Lesson: 49 Word: 3

patronizing PAY truh niz ing

having a condescending attitude She hugged the poor children in the streets and flashed them patronizing smiles. Synonyms : Antonyms : accepting Derivatives : patronize, patronization, patronizer, patronizingly Lesson: 33 Word: 15

rancid RAN sid

having a foul or offensive smell or taste A rancid odor came from the garbage pail. Synonyms : fetid, fusty, malodorous, musty, noisome, putrid, rank Antonyms : pleasant Derivatives : rancidly, rancidness, rancidification, rancidify, rancidity Lesson: 18 Word: 20

reputable REP yuh tuh bul

having a good reputation The Better Business Bureau said that the company was reputable. Synonyms : Antonyms : disreputable; notorious; infamous Derivatives : reputability, reputably, reputation, reputative, reputatively, repute, reputed, reputedly, reputeless Lesson: 49 Word: 19

voracious voe RAY shus

having a large appetite, ravenous Henry the VIII allegedly had a voracious appetite. Synonyms : gluttonous, rapacious Antonyms : temperate Derivatives : voraciously, voraciousness, voracity Lesson: 31 Word: 25

magnanimity mag nuh NIM eh tee

having a lofty, generous, and courageous spirit The magnanimity of the king endeared him to his subjects. Synonyms : Antonyms : greed; stinginess Derivatives : magnanimous, magnanimously, magnanimousness Lesson: 8 Word: 18

urbane ur BANE

having a refined manner, suave and elegant Southern gentlemen and English noblemen are known for their urbane manners. Synonyms : diplomatic, politic Antonyms : boorish; unrefined Derivatives : urbanely Lesson: 61 Word: 25

infamous IN fuh mus

having a reputation of the worst kind, vicious, notoriously bad The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was an infamous act. Synonyms : disreputable, ignominious Antonyms : illustrious Derivatives : infamously, infamy, infamies Lesson: 6 Word: 16

serrated sur RAY ted

having an edge that is notched or toothed like a saw Some trees have leaves that are serrated, and others have leaves that are smooth on the edges. Synonyms : Antonyms : smooth and even Derivatives : serrate Lesson: 56 Word: 19

fetid FET id

having an offensive smell, malodorous The dead body became fetid. Synonyms : fusty, musty, noisome, putrid, rancid, rank Antonyms : aromatic Derivatives : fetidly, fetidness, fetidity Lesson: 29 Word: 12

perspicacious pur spu KAY shus

having clear insight, shrewd, very perceptive The perspicacious detective was able to determine the perpetrator of the crime. Synonyms : astute, sagacious Antonyms : ignorant; stupid Derivatives : perspicaciously, perspicaciousness, perspicacity Lesson: 16 Word: 17

ambivalent am BIV uh lunt

having contrary feelings or attitudes, uncertain as to course of action I am ambivalent about a permanent relationship with him, because I like him one day and don't the next. Synonyms : undecided Antonyms : certain; firmly convinced Derivatives : ambivalence Lesson: 1 Word: 2

virtuous VIR choo us

having excellent morals; righteous One would expect nuns to be very virtuous. Synonyms : ethical, noble Antonyms : depraved Derivatives : virtuously, virtuousness, virtue Lesson: 22 Word: 24

ambiguous am BIG yew us

having more than one meaning; unclear, uncertain Finding an ambiguous test question is frustrating, since more than one answer could be correct. Synonyms : cryptic, enigmatic, equivocal, obscure Antonyms : clear; certain Derivatives : ambiguity, ambiguously, ambiguousness Lesson: 9 Word: 1

spontaneous spon TAY nee us

having no external cause, acting on impulse He knew exactly what I was thinking because my reaction was so spontaneous. Synonyms : Antonyms : planned Derivatives : spontaneously, spontaneousness, spontaneity Lesson: 7 Word: 21

incorporeal in kor POR ee ul

having no material or tangible form The man was horrified by the incorporeal sights he saw in the haunted house. Synonyms : Antonyms : material Derivatives : incorporeality, incorporeally, incorporeity, incorporeous Lesson: 62 Word: 9

static (adj.) STAT ik

having no motion, showing little change Since our town has attracted little new industry, the population of the city has become static. Synonyms : Antonyms : active Derivatives : statically, statical Lesson: 12 Word: 21

interminable in TUR mun uh bul

having or seeming to have no end, wearisomely protracted Although the reading assignment was only ten pages, it seemed interminable to the bored student. Synonyms : Antonyms : short and limited Derivatives : interminability, interminableness, interminably, interminate Lesson: 14 Word: 15

charismatic care iz MAT ic

having special qualities or powers that are used for healing or prophecy Many charismatic religions believe in faith healing. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : charisma, charism Lesson: 31 Word: 4

seminal SEM uh nul

having the character of an originative power, principle, or source Our country was based on the seminal ideas of freedom for all. Synonyms : original, germinative Antonyms : Derivatives : seminality, seminally Lesson: 53 Word: 19

utopian yoo TOE pee un

having the characteristics of an ideally perfect place Dorothy thought that Oz was a utopian place until she found out that the Wizard was a fake. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : utopianism, utopianist, utopianize, utopia Lesson: 38 Word: 25

inimical eh NIM eh kul

having the disposition or temper of an enemy The child shuddered under the inimical glare of his father. Synonyms : hostile, unfriendly, harmful, adverse Antonyms : hospitable Derivatives : inimicable, inimically, inimicalness, inimicous Lesson: 49 Word: 10

urban UR bun

having to do with a city or characteristic of a city Since he has grown up on a farm, I am worried about his attending an urban college. Synonyms : Antonyms : rural Derivatives : urbanism, urbanist, urbanistic, urbanize, urbanization Lesson: 60 Word: 24

wistful WIST ful

having unfulfilled longing or yearning It is a wistful dream for her to think that she can go to Hollywood and become a star. Synonyms : Antonyms : fulfilled; realistic Derivatives : wistfulness, wistfully Lesson: 50 Word: 25

omnipotent om NIP uh tunt

having unlimited power A President who feels that he is omnipotent is not serving the country. Synonyms : Antonyms : limited Derivatives : omnipotence, omnipotency, omnipotently Lesson: 41 Word: 12

domicile DOM eh sile

home or residence, abode Because he works on both coasts, he has two domiciles. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : domicilable, domicil, domiciliary, domiciliar Lesson: 57 Word: 6

despairing deh SPARE ing

hopeless, despondent, discouraged The woman's despairing tears touched the hearts of many. Synonyms : Antonyms : hopeful Derivatives : despair, despaired, despairful, despairfully, despairingly, despairingness Lesson: 43 Word: 7

parody PAIR uh dee

humorous or ridiculous imitation Many skits on "Saturday Night Live" are parodies of current events. Synonyms : burlesque, caricature, travesty Antonyms : reverent imitation Derivatives : parodies Lesson: 14 Word: 17

cherubic chuh ROO bic

innocent, wholesome, angelic The cherubic expression on the child's face concealed his guilt. Synonyms : Antonyms : fiendish Derivatives : cherub, cherubs, cherubim, cherubically Lesson: 65 Word: 4

quixotic kwik SOT ik

idealistic but impractical It is usually quixotic for a commoner to pursue a relationship with a member of the royal family. Synonyms : chimera, fanciful, fantastic, visionary Antonyms : practical Derivatives : quixote, quixotical, quixotically, quixotism, quixotize, quixotry Lesson: 32 Word: 22

malevolence muh LEV uh lens

ill will or evil intentions The old man's malevolence was obvious when he removed the girl from his will. Synonyms : malice, malignity, spite, spleen Antonyms : benevolence Derivatives : malevolent, malevolently Lesson: 11 Word: 15

illicit eh LIS it

illegal Gambling is an illicit activity in many states. Synonyms : unlawful, illegitimate Antonyms : legal Derivatives : illicitness, illicitly Lesson: 42 Word: 7

sophomoric sof uh MORE ik

immature and poorly informed Intentional crying is a sophomoric attempt to gain sympathy. Synonyms : Antonyms : profound Derivatives : sophomorical, sophomorically Lesson: 45 Word: 20

callow KAL oh

immature, inexperienced Rash and hasty decisions are the mark of impetuous, callow youth. Synonyms : Antonyms : mature; experienced Derivatives : callowness Lesson: 25 Word: 4

wanton WAHN tun

immoral, lewd He had to drop out of the presidential race when his wanton behavior was exposed. Synonyms : Antonyms : moral Derivatives : wantonly, wantonness Lesson: 65 Word: 25

vitiated VISH ee ate id

impaired, corrupted, or made ineffective My agreement with him was vitiated when I found that he was stealing assets. Synonyms : Antonyms : strengthened Derivatives : vitiate, vitiation, vitiator Lesson: 55 Word: 24

irresolute eh REZ uh loot

indecisive, unsure of how to proceed The confused child stood irresolute, waiting for some instruction. Synonyms : Antonyms : sure; decisive; certain Derivatives : irresolutely, irresoluteness, irresolution Lesson: 21 Word: 15

autonomous aw TON uh muhs

independent, self-contained One who is autonomous needs no help from others. Synonyms : Antonyms : dependent Derivatives : autonomic, autonomously, autonomy, autonomist Lesson: 2 Word: 4

nonchalance non shuh LAWNS

indifference, a showing of little interest He took the news of his failing grade with nonchalance. Synonyms : Antonyms : intensity Derivatives : nonchalant, nonchalantly, nonchalantness Lesson: 26 Word: 16

circuitous sir KYOO uh tus

indirect, roundabout Sometimes taxi drivers seem to take a circuitous route. Synonyms : Antonyms : straightforward Derivatives : circuitously, circuitousness Lesson: 58 Word: 6

incontrovertible in kon truh VUR tuh

indisputable The district attorney was looking for incontrovertible evidence to prove that the accused arsonist burned the bank. Synonyms : Antonyms : disputable; arguable Derivatives : incontrovertibly Lesson: 8 Word: 15

maladroit mal uh DROIT

inept, awkward His maladroit attempts to repair the situation only made it worse. Synonyms : gauche, clumsy, ungainly Antonyms : adept, adroit, skillful Derivatives : maladroitly, maladroitness Lesson: 36 Word: 13

disparity deh SPAR eh tee

inequality, the condition or fact of being unequal in age, rank, or degree The couple got married even though there was a great disparity in their ages. Synonyms : Antonyms : similarity Derivatives : disparate, disparately, disparateness, disparatum Lesson: 1 Word: 9

extrapolation ik strap uh LAY shun

inference or prediction based on past data The theory derived from the experiment was merely an extrapolation; it could not be proved. Synonyms : Antonyms : proof Derivatives : extrapolate, extrapolative, extrapolator, extrapolatory Lesson: 63 Word: 7

calcified KAL suh fide

inflexible, hardened His views have become calcified, and trying to talk to him about it is foolish. Synonyms : Antonyms : flexible; pliable Derivatives : calcify, calcifying, calcification, calciferous Lesson: 54 Word: 2

adamant AD uh munt

inflexible, immovable, obstinate The man was adamant in his decision to seek a political office. Synonyms : inexorable, obdurate Antonyms : pliant Derivatives : adamantine, adamantive, adamancy, adamantly Lesson: 38 Word: 2

colloquial kuh LOW kwee ul

informal (speech) Term papers are not to contain colloquial expressions. Synonyms : Antonyms : formal Derivatives : colloquially, colloquy Lesson: 38 Word: 4

tidings TIE dings

information or news I bring good tidings from the central office. Tomorrow is a holiday. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : tiding Lesson: 62 Word: 24

prologue PRO log

introductory remarks in a speech, play or literary work, introductory action The play had a prologue that set the scene for the opening act. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : prologist, prologize Lesson: 3 Word: 21

fitful FIT ful

irregular Due to fitful sleep last night, I am not rested. Synonyms : convulsive, spasmodic Antonyms : constant Derivatives : fitfully, fitfullness Lesson: 11 Word: 12

blasphemous BLAS fuh mus

irreverent, profane Telling that sacrilegious joke is blasphemous. Synonyms : Antonyms : sacred; reverent Derivatives : blaspheme, blasphemed, blaspheming, blaspemer, blasphemousness, blasphemously, blasphemy Lesson: 8 Word: 3

irascible uh RAS uh bul

irritable, easily angered, cranky, cross Just about anything could set off his irascible temper. Synonyms : Antonyms : impassive; imperturbable Derivatives : irascibleness, irascibly, irascibility Lesson: 8 Word: 16

jocular JOK yu lur

jesting or joking The man's jocular mood kept us all entertained throughout the evening. Synonyms : facetious, jocose, jocund Antonyms : serious Derivatives : jocularity, jocularly, jocularness, joculator Lesson: 23 Word: 16

desultory DES ul tore ee

jumping around, aimless, random The man's desultory attempts at finding employment wasted his time. Synonyms : Antonyms : concentrated Derivatives : desultorious, desultoriness, desultorily, desultor Lesson: 14 Word: 8

warranted WOR un ted

justified The jury felt that the death penalty was warranted because of the heinous nature of the crime. Synonyms : Antonyms : unjustified Derivatives : warrant, warrantable, warrantableness, warrantably Lesson: 32 Word: 25

humane hyoo MANE

kind, compassionate, sympathetic and considerate The United States was very humane in its treatment of prisoners of war. Synonyms : Antonyms : brutal Derivatives : humanely, humaneness Lesson: 10 Word: 10

benevolence buh NEV uh lunz

kindness, generosity, charity His benevolence was shown when he set up soup kitchens for the poor. Synonyms : Antonyms : antagonism; avarice; malevolence Derivatives : benevolent, benevolently Lesson: 11 Word: 5

jargon JAR gon

language used by a special group that is usually strange and confusing In making transactions, the traders on the stock market floor used a jargon which we could not understand. Synonyms : dialect, vernacular, lingo Antonyms : Derivatives : jargonal,jargonistic,jargonish,jargonesque, jargonist, jargoneer, jargonize, jargonizing, jargonization Lesson: 61 Word: 12

ephemeral eh FEM ur ul

lasting a short period of time, fleeting The microorganism had an ephemeral lifespan. It died shortly after it was created. Synonyms : evanescent, fleeting, fugitive, transient, transitory Antonyms : lasting; timeless; eternal Derivatives : ephemerally, ephemerality, ephemeralness, ephemeron, ephemerous Lesson: 5 Word: 11

perennial puh REN ee ul

lasting for many years The Dallas Cowboys were often a perennial favorite to win the Super Bowl. Synonyms : constant, incessant, perpetual, unremitting Antonyms : annual Derivatives : perennially Lesson: 37 Word: 17

sumptuous SUMP choo us

lavish, luxurious I like to go to my mother's house on Thanksgiving Day because we always have a sumptuous feast. Synonyms : Antonyms : paltry Derivatives : sumptuously, sumptuosity, sumptuousness Lesson: 33 Word: 22

indolence IN duh luns

laziness The hot and humid weather in the tropics encourages indolence. Synonyms : slothfulness Antonyms : industriousness Derivatives : indolent, indolency, indolently Lesson: 5 Word: 17

slothful SLOTH ful

lazy, indolent That student is so slothful that he has never done any of his homework assignments. Synonyms : bovine Antonyms : industrious Derivatives : slothfully, slothfulness, sloth Lesson: 4 Word: 21

angular ANG gyuh ler

lean; sharp cornered; gaunt The patient has lost so much weight that his face has become quite angular. Synonyms : Antonyms : rotund Derivatives : angulate, angularity, angulation, angulator Lesson: 1 Word: 3

foliage FOE lee ij

leaves of a plant, leafage The trees will soon come alive with green foliage. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : foliages, foliar, foliaceous Lesson: 39 Word: 11

clemency KLEM un see

leniency Governors are usually allowed to grant clemency to deserving prisoners. Synonyms : Antonyms : harshness Derivatives : clemencies, clement, clemently Lesson: 17 Word: 6

pugnacious pug NAY shus

looking for a fight, combative, belligerent There are many pugnacious punks at the high school that bully other students. Synonyms : bellicose, contentious, quarrelsome Antonyms : peaceful Derivatives : pugnaciously, pugnaciousness, pugnacity Lesson: 15 Word: 19

revelry REV ul ry

loud and boisterous partying or merrymaking On the night of the election, there was much revelry at the governor's victory party. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : revelries Lesson: 42 Word: 19

oscillating OS uh lay ting

moving back and forth, swinging, varying The oscillating pendulum was beginning to unnerve me. Synonyms : Antonyms : remaining steady Derivatives : oscillate, oscillates, oscillated, oscillation, oscillator, oscillatory Lesson: 32 Word: 18

retrograde REH truh grade

moving backward That particular object is moving in retrograde motion. Synonyms : withdrawing, receding, backward Antonyms : moving forward Derivatives : retrograded, retrograding, retrogradely, retrogradingly Lesson: 37 Word: 20

migratory MY gruh tor ee

moving from place to place, wandering, transient The migratory whooping cranes always return to Padre Island. Synonyms : Antonyms : stationary Derivatives : migrate, migratorial, migrator, migration, migrationist Lesson: 22 Word: 14

undulant UN juh lunt

moving with or resembling a wavelike motion Playing golf on an undulant terrain is usually difficult. Synonyms : Antonyms : motionless Derivatives : undulance, undulate, undulated, undulating, undulation, undulatory Lesson: 28 Word: 24

polyphony puh LIF uh nee

music in which two or more independent melodies are sounded together Most of the music heard today is based on polyphony. Synonyms : Antonyms : homophony Derivatives : polyphonic, polyphonist Lesson: 61 Word: 18

reciprocal reh SIP ruh kul

mutual, interacting We have made a reciprocal trade agreement whereby we will sell the country grain and it will sell us copper. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : reciprocality, reciprocally, reciprocating, reciprocation, reciprocative, reciprocator, reciprocatory, reciprocity Lesson: 35 Word: 16

enigmatic en ig MAT ik

mysterious, inexplicable, puzzling The disappearance of Amelia Earhart is an enigma to this day. Synonyms : abstruse, ambiguous, cryptic, equivocal, obscure, Antonyms : clear Derivatives : enigma, enigmatical, enigmatically, enigmatize Lesson: 3 Word: 10

cryptic KRIP tik

mysterious, secret I did not understand his cryptic message. Synonyms : abstruse, ambiguous, enigmatic, obscure, recondite Antonyms : clear; revealed Derivatives : cryptical, cryptically, crypotogram, cryptography, cryptonym, cryptonymous Lesson: 14 Word: 7

indigenous in DIJ eh nus

native to a certain area Many types of cacti are indigenous to the southwest deserts of the United States. Synonyms : aboriginal, endemic, native Antonyms : alien Derivatives : indigenously, indigenize, indigenization Lesson: 19 Word: 13

dynamic die NAM ik

producing an effect of energetic movement or progression The man gave a dynamic speech to the audience. Synonyms : forceful, energetic Antonyms : Derivatives : dynamically, dynamical Lesson: 50 Word: 6

wispy WIS pee

small in amount, fragile, or slight A baby hummingbird is a wispy little creature. Synonyms : Antonyms : substantial Derivatives : wispily, wispiness, wispish, wisps Lesson: 49 Word: 25

antiquated AN tuh kwat id

obsolete, out of fashion, no longer usable We cannot afford to have antiquated military forces. Synonyms : antique, archaic, obsolete, venerable Antonyms : modern Derivatives : antiquate, antiquating, antiquation, antiquatedness Lesson: 6 Word: 1

endemic en DEM ik

peculiar to or a trait of a group or area Great height is endemic to members of that African tribe. Synonyms : aboriginal, indigenous, native Antonyms : alien Derivatives : endemical, endemically, endemicity, endemism Lesson: 32 Word: 11

repentant reh PEN tunt

penitent; characterized by showing repentance or contrition for a past sin Her repentant mood touched the jury, and she was absolved of guilt. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : repent, repenter, repenting, repented, repentance, repentantly Lesson: 29 Word: 20

tactile TAK til

perceptible by touch; capable of being felt The woman's stroke left her with no tactile sensations at all. Synonyms : tangible Antonyms : intangible Derivatives : tactilist, tactility, taction Lesson: 23 Word: 25

tenacious teh NAY shus

persistent, holding fast to a position England was tenacious in its desire not to fall to the Germans. Synonyms : mettlesome, resolved Antonyms : fickle Derivatives : tenaciously, tenaciousness, tenacity Lesson: 30 Word: 23

phoenix FEE niks

person of unmatched beauty; something rising from apparent destruction Like a phoenix, he was able to recover from bankruptcy and become a millionaire again. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : phoenixity Lesson: 51 Word: 16

prepossessing pree puh ZES ing

pleasing or creating a favorable impression Shirley Temple was a popular child actress because of her prepossessing personality. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : prepossess, prepossessingly, prepossession, prepossionary Lesson: 51 Word: 18

dulcet DUL sit

pleasing to the ear, melodious, euphonious I was soothed by the dulcet tones of the violin. Synonyms : Antonyms : harsh; cacophonous Derivatives : dulcetly, dulcify Lesson: 65 Word: 8

mellow MEL oh

pleasingly mild The orchestra played soft and mellow music. Synonyms : Antonyms : harsh Derivatives : mellowy, mellowed Lesson: 55 Word: 10

voluptuous vuh LUP choo us

pleasurable to the senses, sensuous Bob Hope always took voluptuous women with him when he entertained soldiers overseas. Synonyms : Antonyms : plain; homely Derivatives : voluptuosity, voluptuousness, voluptuate, voluptuously Lesson: 59 Word: 25

indices IN deh seez

plural of index, guides There are many indices in the library for you to use in your research. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : index, indexical, indexically, indexless Lesson: 45 Word: 12

toxic TOK sik

poisonous Carbon monoxide is toxic to animal life. Synonyms : Antonyms : healthful; harmless Derivatives : toxical, toxicant, toxify, toxiferous, toxin, toxical, toxicity Lesson: 7 Word: 23

civility suh VIL uh tee

polite and courteous behavior Diplomats are expected to display a great deal of civility in their interactions with one another. Synonyms : mannerly behavior Antonyms : rudeness, boorishness, impoliteness Derivatives : civil, civilities, civilize, civilizatory, civilizedness Lesson: 20 Word: 5

vogue VOGE

popular fashion Miniskirts are in vogue again. Synonyms : Antonyms : unfashionable Derivatives : voguish Lesson: 58 Word: 25

sovereign SOV rin

possessed of controlling power The king is sovereign within his country. Synonyms : predominant, paramount, preponderant Antonyms : without power Derivatives : sovereignly, sovereignity, sovranty Lesson: 28 Word: 21

indigence IN deh juns

poverty His ragged clothes are a sign of his indigence. Synonyms : destitution, penury, want Antonyms : wealth Derivatives : indigency, indigent Lesson: 22 Word: 12

potent POTE unt

powerful, having a strong effect They gave me a potent pain killer to stop the throbbing sensation in my leg. Synonyms : Antonyms : ineffectual Derivatives : potence, potency Lesson: 37 Word: 18

forestalled fore STAWLD

prevented or delayed beforehand The sandbag dam forestalled the advance of the water. Synonyms : Antonyms : assisted Derivatives : forestall, forestaller, forestallment Lesson: 40 Word: 10

fountainhead FOUN tun hed

principal source or origin A quick glance into his extravagant lifestyle shows the fountainhead of his motivation to save his business. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : fountainheads Lesson: 60 Word: 6

methodical muh THOD eh kul

proceeding in a regular or systematic order The surgeon was very methodical in delivering the baby. Synonyms : Antonyms : haphazard Derivatives : methodically, methodicalness Lesson: 52 Word: 13

profundity pruh FUN deh tee

profound knowledge, intellectual depth Einstein had a profundity that was admired by all. Synonyms : Antonyms : shallowness; stupidity Derivatives : profound, profoundly, profoundness Lesson: 57 Word: 16

salutary SAL yuh ter ee

promoting good health or beneficial effects Your talk has had a salutary effect on your child. His class behavior has really improved. Synonyms : salubrious, wholesome Antonyms : harmful Derivatives : salutarily, salutariness Lesson: 30 Word: 22

alacrity uh LAK ruh tee

prompt and cheerful response I accepted his invitation to the prom with alacrity. Synonyms : celerity Antonyms : indolence Derivatives : alacritous Lesson: 12 Word: 2

decorousness DEK ur us ness

proper behavior A gentleman's behavior is known for its decorousness. Synonyms : Antonyms : lack of propriety Derivatives : decorous, decorously, decorum Lesson: 35 Word: 4

viscosity vis KOS eh tee

property of having a high resistance to flow Heinz ketchup has a high viscosity. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : viscous Lesson: 28 Word: 25

itinerary eye TIN uh rer ee

proposed route of a journey Our itinerary will place us in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : itinerancy, itineracy,itinerant, itinerantly, itinerarium, itinerated, itinerating, itineration Lesson: 59 Word: 12

demure deh MYOOR

serious, reserved, coy Hollywood often portrays gentlemen as handsome and demure. Synonyms : Antonyms : flagrant Derivatives : demurer, demurest, demurely Lesson: 60 Word: 4

gravity GRAV eh tee

seriousness, importance The gravity of the situation was heightened by the death of the president . Synonyms : earnestness, sedateness, sobriety, solemnity, staidness Antonyms : unimportance Derivatives : grave, graver, gravely Lesson: 22 Word: 10

brazen BRAY zen

shameless, insolent, disrespectful Pinching that woman was a very brazen act. Synonyms : Antonyms : reserved; mild Derivatives : brazenly, brazenness, brazenfaced Lesson: 24 Word: 3

amorphous uh MOR fuss

shapeless, having no definite form In the science fiction movie, the amorphous mass terrorized the town. Synonyms : Antonyms : structured Derivatives : amorphously, amorphousness, amorphism Lesson: 5 Word: 4

diffidence DIF eh duns

shyness, reserve, unassertiveness Because of his diffidence, he would not ask any girl to the prom. Synonyms : bashfulness, modesty Antonyms : confidence Derivatives : diffidency, diffident, diffidently, diffidentness Lesson: 7 Word: 8

artifacts ARE tuh faks

simple objects showing human workmanship After supplying the finishing touches, the craftsman set the artifacts carefully on a shelf to dry. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : artifact, artefact, artefac, artifactual, artifactitious Lesson: 25 Word: 2

girth GURTH

size or dimensions (usually the measure around a body) To be a sumo wrestler, one must have a large girth. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : girths Lesson: 24 Word: 10

dexterous DEK struss

skillful and active with the hands; manually adroit and skillful The machine shop advertised for a dexterous worker. Synonyms : deft, handy Antonyms : clumsy Derivatives : dexterity, dexterously, dexterousness, dextral Lesson: 15 Word: 8

adroit uh DROW it

skillful, adept The magician was especially adroit in making the lion disappear. Synonyms : clever, cunning, deft, dexterous, ingenious, ingenuity Antonyms : inept Derivatives : adroitly, adroitness Lesson: 50 Word: 1

deft DEFT

skillful, adroit He was very deft in handling the questions from the reporter. Synonyms : clever, cunning, dexterous, ingenious Antonyms : clumsy Derivatives : deftness, deftly Lesson: 20 Word: 7

artful ART ful

skillful, clever, tricky The President was artful in negotiating the arms deal. Synonyms : crafty, cunning, foxy, sly Antonyms : guileless Derivatives : artfully, artfulness Lesson: 51 Word: 2

industrious in DUS tree us

skillfully busy or occupied The industrious student will use time wisely. Synonyms : assiduous, diligent, sedulous Antonyms : slothful, indolent Derivatives : industriously, industriousness, industry Lesson: 6 Word: 15

oblique uh BLEEK

slanting, indirect, evasive, devious, misleading Because of the suspect's oblique answers, our interrogation of him led us in the wrong direction. Synonyms : Antonyms : direct Derivatives : obliquate, obliquation, obliquely, obliqueness, obliquely Lesson: 5 Word: 22

legerdemain lej ur duh MANE

sleight of hand, deception or trickery resulting from use of the hands A magician must be able to perform feats of legerdemain. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : legerdermains Lesson: 39 Word: 18

prestidigitation pres tuh dij eh TAY

sleight of hand, manual dexterity Most magicians are skilled in prestidigitation. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : prestidigitator, prestidigitatorial, prestidigitatory, prestigiation, prestigiator Lesson: 53 Word: 16

foible FOI bul

slight fault, minor weakness of character His character is weakened only by a slight foible. Synonyms : failing, fragility, vice Antonyms : strong point Derivatives : foibles Lesson: 33 Word: 7

tangential tan JEN shul

slightly connected, divergent Since we are short of time, tangential remarks are not appreciated. Synonyms : Antonyms : pertinent Derivatives : tangent, tangentially, tangently Lesson: 19 Word: 23

laggard LAG urd

slow, sluggish When that coach tells you to do something, do not be laggard. Synonyms : Antonyms : animated Derivatives : laggardly, laggardness Lesson: 48 Word: 11

languid LANG gwid

slow, sluggish, listless, weak The old man's walk was languid, each pace requiring great effort. Synonyms : lethargic, stuporous, torpid Antonyms : animated Derivatives : languidly, languidness, languish, languisher, languishing, languishment Lesson: 5 Word: 20

torpid TOR pid

sluggish, inactive, dull He is always torpid on Sunday mornings. Synonyms : Antonyms : active; animated Derivatives : torpor, torpidity, torpidness, torpify, torpidly, torpitude, torporific Lesson: 12 Word: 23

lethargic luh THAR jik

sluggish, languid Having had too much to drink, he was very lethargic the morning after the party. Synonyms : stuporous, torpid Antonyms : energetic Derivatives : lethargically, lethargize, lethargy Lesson: 2 Word: 18

petty PET ee

small and insignificant Put your petty grievances aside and settle this matter. Synonyms : Antonyms : significant; prodigious Derivatives : pettiness, pettily Lesson: 46 Word: 17

acerbic uh SER bic

sour or bitter in mood or tone His cold sarcasm demonstrated his acerbic attitude. Synonyms : Antonyms : kindly Derivatives : acerbity Lesson: 47 Word: 1

abstemious ab STEM ee us

sparing (usually in eating or drinking); temperate A person who is abstemious in his alcohol intake might not be welcome by that wild fraternity. Synonyms : Antonyms : gluttonous Derivatives : abstemiously, abstemiousness, abstention, abstentious Lesson: 17 Word: 1

scintillating SIN tuh lay ting

sparkling, shining, or flashing The fireworks during a Fourth of July celebration are a scintillating display. Synonyms : Antonyms : dull Derivatives : scintillate, scintillant, scintillantly, scintillatingly, scintillation, scintillator, scintillescent Lesson: 11 Word: 23

drone DRONE

speaking in a monotonous tone; a continuous low humming sound I could hardly endure the constant drone of the speaker's voice. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : droned, droning, drones, droner, droningly, dronish Lesson: 24 Word: 8

foliated FOE lee ay tid

split into thin layers Graphite has a foliated structure. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : foliate, foliation Lesson: 51 Word: 9

fission FISH un

splitting into parts Nuclear fission is a source of great energy. Synonyms : Antonyms : process of joining Derivatives : fissioned, fissioning, fissionability, fissionable Lesson: 46 Word: 7

ferment FUR ment

state of agitation, commotion During the Civil War, much of the country was in a state of ferment. Synonyms : Antonyms : peace; calm Derivatives : fermentability, fermentable, fermental, fermentation, fermentative, fermenter Lesson: 40 Word: 9

omniscience om NISH uns

state of being all-knowing Only God has omniscience, although my husband thinks he has it. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : omniscient, omnisciency, omnisciently Lesson: 65 Word: 17

heterogeneity het uh ro je NEE eh tee

state of being dissimilar, composition from unlike elements Coming from many countries and cultures, students in my class are an example of heterogeneity. Synonyms : disparateness, dissimilarity Antonyms : homogeneity Derivatives : heterogeneous, heterogenesis, heterogeneously, heterogeneousness Lesson: 21 Word: 13

destitution des teh TOO shun

state of being extremely poor, in extreme want We face destitution if our father loses his job. Synonyms : impecunity, indigence, penury, want Antonyms : prosperity Derivatives : destitute, destitutely, destituteness Lesson: 26 Word: 8

oblivion uh BLIV ee un

state of being forgotten Until the singer's recent hit, his career had fallen into a state of oblivion. Synonyms : Antonyms : remembrance Derivatives : oblivious, obliviously Lesson: 6 Word: 19

corpulence KOR pyuh luns

state of being very fat Overeating will lead to corpulence. Synonyms : obesity Antonyms : emaciation Derivatives : corpulent, corpulently Lesson: 32 Word: 8

rectitude REK teh tood

state of moral integrity When the preacher's rectitude was questioned, many left his congregation. Synonyms : Antonyms : depravity Derivatives : rectitudinous, rectitudinously Lesson: 39 Word: 22

fruition froo ISH un

state of realization or accomplishment The doctor saw the fruition of his dream when the new hospital was finally built. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : fruitive Lesson: 64 Word: 7

gentility jen TIL eh tee

state of refinement, member of the upper class or gentry Southern gentlemen were proud of their gentility. Synonyms : Antonyms : boorishness Derivatives : gentilities Lesson: 43 Word: 12

extant EK stunt

still in existence Although his books are illegal, many are extant and available on the black market. Synonyms : Antonyms : inexistent Derivatives : Lesson: 61 Word: 7

whets HWETS

stimulates, sharpens The smell of fresh bread always whets my appetite. Synonyms : Antonyms : stifles; dulls; suppresses Derivatives : whet, whetted Lesson: 22 Word: 25

parsimony PAR suh moe nee

stinginess, frugality; excessive economy His family suffered from his parsimony as he refused to spend adequate money even on the necessities of life. Synonyms : Antonyms : prodigality; extravagance Derivatives : parsimonious, parsimoniousness, parsimoniously Lesson: 16 Word: 15

inclement in KLEM unt

stormy, severe The weatherman said that our area should prepare for some inclement weather. Synonyms : Antonyms : calm; favorable Derivatives : inclemency, inclemently, inclementness Lesson: 60 Word: 9

punctilious pungk TILL ee us

stressing precise following of instructions, details, codes or conduct The boss insists that we be punctilious in following company policy. Synonyms : meticulous, scrupulous Antonyms : lackadaisical Derivatives : punctiliously, punctiliousness Lesson: 26 Word: 19

austere aw STEER

strict, stern; unadorned, ascetic Pioneers usually led an austere existence. Synonyms : severe Antonyms : indulgent Derivatives : austereness, austerely, austerity Lesson: 2 Word: 3

rigor RIG ur

strictness, severity Calculus and physics are courses that require rigor in study habits. Synonyms : Antonyms : laxity Derivatives : rigorism, rigorist, rigoristic, rigoristic, rigorous, rigorously, rigoroursness Lesson: 25 Word: 17

meticulous muh TIK yuh lus

taking great care I am usually very meticulous in completing my assignments. Synonyms : punctilious, scrupulous Antonyms : careless Derivatives : meticulously, meticulousness Lesson: 9 Word: 15

garrulous GAR yuh lus

talkative, rambling He was so garrulous that he repeated everything many times. Synonyms : voluble Antonyms : taciturn Derivatives : garrulously, garrulousness, garrulity Lesson: 6 Word: 13

circumlocution sir kum low KEW shun

talking around a subject Politicians are known for circumlocution. Synonyms : Antonyms : brevity; conciseness; terseness Derivatives : circumlocutory Lesson: 22 Word: 4

palpable PAL puh bul

tangible, perceptible, easily noticeable I do not see how I overlooked such a palpable miscalculation. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : palpability, palpably, palpableness Lesson: 51 Word: 15

lachrymose LAK ruh mose

tearful She was very lachrymose at the funeral of her father. Synonyms : Antonyms : dry-eyed Derivatives : lachrymable, lachrymal, lachrymation, lachrymator, lachrymatory, lachrymosely, lachrymosity Lesson: 39 Word: 17

breadth BREDTH

the width of something, comprehensive quality The breadth of his knowledge about art is amazing. Synonyms : Antonyms : narrowness Derivatives : breadths, breadthen, breadthened, breadthening Lesson: 23 Word: 3

certitudes SIR tuh toods

things that are inevitable or certain, certainties He was able to take his vows with absolute certitude. Synonyms : Antonyms : doubt Derivatives : certitude Lesson: 29 Word: 5

intangibles in TAN juh buls

things that cannot be realized or defined The coach said that he had the best team and that they should win, but one never knows about intangibles. Synonyms : Antonyms : things that can be realized Derivatives : intangibility, intangibleness, intangibly Lesson: 33 Word: 11

harbingers HAR bin jers

things that precede and forecast Thick fur on a wooly worm is a harbinger of a cold winter. Synonyms : forerunners, heralds, precursors Antonyms : Derivatives : harbinger Lesson: 61 Word: 10

premeditated pree MED eh tay ted

thought out beforehand Premeditated murder is punishable by the death penalty in Texas. Synonyms : Antonyms : spontaneous Derivatives : premeditate, premeditatedly, premeditatedness, premeditatingly, premeditation, premeditative Lesson: 32 Word: 20

ominous OM uh nus

threatening The ominous clouds were harbingers of the tornado. Synonyms : fateful, portentous Antonyms : harmless; non-threatening Derivatives : ominously, ominousness Lesson: 4 Word: 17

indefatigable in deh FAT uh guh bul

tireless, incapable of being fatigued The indefatigable army moved ahead steadily over the many days without rest. Synonyms : Antonyms : easily tired Derivatives : indefatigability, indefatigableness, indefatigably Lesson: 14 Word: 14

abrogate AB ruh gayt

to abolish, to do away with The king abrogated the law passed by the parliament. Synonyms : annul, invalidate, negate, nullify Antonyms : to establish Derivatives : abrogable, abrogation, abrogative, abrogator, abrogated, abrogating Lesson: 38 Word: 1

imbibe im BIBE

to absorb or to drink in It is dangerous to imbibe too much alcohol. Synonyms : Antonyms : to exude Derivatives : imbibes, imbibed, imbibition, imbibitional, imbiber Lesson: 46 Word: 10

accrue uh KREW

to accumulate, to gather, or to grow as interest on money If you leave the money in the bank, it will accrue interest, and you will have more money. Synonyms : Antonyms : to become less Derivatives : accrual, accrued, accruing, accruement Lesson: 46 Word: 1

tinge TINJ

to add a bit of color; to affect slightly; a slight coloration I wanted to add a tinge of red to the picture. The roses tinged the air with their fragrance. Synonyms : Antonyms : to blanch Derivatives : tingent, tinged, tinging, tinges Lesson: 33 Word: 23

append uh PEND

to add in a supplementary manner His long-winded discourse was appended by a final summary of important points. Synonyms : Antonyms : to detach, to delete Derivatives : appendage, appendant, appendance, appended Lesson: 40 Word: 1

dissuade deh SWADE

to advise against, to talk out of I tried to dissuade him from going over Niagara Falls in a barrel, but he would not listen. Synonyms : Antonyms : to persuade, to encourage Derivatives : dissuadable, dissuasion, dissuasive, dissuasively, dissuasiveness Lesson: 11 Word: 8

exacerbate ig ZAS ur bate

to aggravate, to irritate, to vex You will only exacerbate the situation if you try to call her. Synonyms : Antonyms : to ameliorate; to soothe Derivatives : exacerbatingly, exacerbation Lesson: 2 Word: 11

assent uh CENT

to agree or to concur; to give in, to yield; agreement Assenting to his demands, she did as she was told. Synonyms : acquiesce, concede; compliance Antonyms : dissent Derivatives : assenting, assented, assentingly, assentive, assentiveness, assentation, assentor Lesson: 22 Word: 2

estrange eh STRANJ

to alienate, to separate The necessity to travel in his business may estrange him from his family for a short period of time. Synonyms : disaffect, wean Antonyms : to unite; to join Derivatives : estranged, estrangedness, estrangement Lesson: 9 Word: 6

waylay WAY lay

to ambush or to attack unexpectedly The police tried to waylay the criminal. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : waylaid, waylaying, waylays Lesson: 44 Word: 25

placate PLAY kate

to appease or to pacify by making concessions My wife is so angry at me that I cannot placate her. Synonyms : conciliate, mollification, propitiate Antonyms : to antagonize Derivatives : placater, placating, placatingly, placation, placative, placatory Lesson: 7 Word: 17

nettle NET ul

to arouse displeasure, impatience, or anger in The small boys deliberately tried to nettle their big sister. Synonyms : irritate, incite, provoke, vex Antonyms : to placate Derivatives : nettles, nettled, nettling, nettler, nettlesome Lesson: 55 Word: 11

marshal MAR shul

to arrange in proper order; to usher or to lead Their host marshaled them into the room. Synonyms : order, dispose; convoke Antonyms : to scatter Derivatives : marshaled, marshaling, marshalcy, marshalship, marshaler Lesson: 47 Word: 13

impugn im PYOON

to assail or to attack one's honor or integrity After the death of his father, many relatives impugned his claims to his inheritance. Synonyms : Antonyms : to speak well of Derivatives : impugnable, impugnation, impugnment Lesson: 53 Word: 10

pigeonhole PIJ un hole

to assign to a category Since he writes comedies, mysteries, and musicals, it is difficult to pigeonhole his writing style. Synonyms : assort, sort, classify Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 53 Word: 15

relegate REL uh gate

to assign to an inferior position The veteran ball player knew it was time to retire when he was relegated to sitting on the bench. Synonyms : Antonyms : to promote Derivatives : relegation, relegable, relegates, relegated, relegating Lesson: 31 Word: 19

subvert sub VURT

to destroy or to impair by insidious undermining The revolution began when several citizens joined together in an effort to subvert their own government. Synonyms : raze, demolish, alienate, overturn, defeat Antonyms : Derivatives : subverter, subverted, subvertible, subversion, subversive, subversively, subversiveness, subverse Lesson: 34 Word: 21

loathe LOETH

to detest The fact that I loathe your brother does not mean that we cannot be friends. Synonyms : abhor, abominate Antonyms : to adore Derivatives : loathful, loathing, loathingly, loathness,loathsome Lesson: 3 Word: 16

flower FLOU ur

to develop fully Her intellectual spirit flowered after she went to college. Synonyms : Antonyms : to wither Derivatives : flowered, flowers, flowering Lesson: 48 Word: 8

discern deh SURN

to differentiate between two or more things Because of the fog, I was barely able to discern the landing strip. Synonyms : Antonyms : to ignore; to be oblivious; to Derivatives : discerner, discernible, discernable, discernibleness, discernibly, discernably, discerningly, discernment Lesson: 1 Word: 6

exhume ig ZOOM

to dig something buried out of the earth; to revive after neglect The court issued an order to exhume the body for an autopsy. Synonyms : disinter Antonyms : to bury Derivatives : exhumed, exhuming, exhumation, exhumer Lesson: 59 Word: 7

reprobate REP ruh bate

to disapprove of; a person with no moral principles, a depraved individual Some thought that the ax murderer was a reprobate who deserved to die. Synonyms : blame, censure, condemn, denounce, reprehend Antonyms : saint Derivatives : reprobation, reprobative, reprobator, reprobatory Lesson: 30 Word: 21

deprecate DEP ruh kate

to disapprove regretfully, to belittle, to express mild disapproval Do not deprecate her act unless you fully understand her situation. Synonyms : Antonyms : to endorse Derivatives : depracating, deprecatingly, deprecative, deprecatively, deprecatory, deprecated, deprecating Lesson: 3 Word: 7

jettison JET eh sun

to discard or to cast off, many times relates to spacecraft The sailors were forced to jettison all excess weight in order to stay afloat. Synonyms : Antonyms : to bring aboard Derivatives : jettisonable Lesson: 29 Word: 17

chasten CHAY sun

to discipline, to use punishment to correct behavior I was chastened by my mother for not cleaning up my room. Synonyms : admonish, castigate, chastise, chide, rebuke, reproach Antonyms : to reward Derivatives : chastened, chastening, chastener Lesson: 20 Word: 4

dissemble deh SEM bul

to disguise, to pretend Although he tried to dissemble his motive for seeing me, I knew the real reason. Synonyms : Antonyms : to reveal Derivatives : dissembled, dissembling, dissembler, dissemblingly Lesson: 22 Word: 7

refute reh FYOOT

to disprove, to show as erroneous The lawyer presented evidence that refuted the testimony of the witness. Synonyms : Antonyms : to prove; to avow Derivatives : refutable, refutability, refutably, refutal, refutation, refutative, refutatory, refuter Lesson: 27 Word: 19

desiccate DES uh kate

to dry up When traveling, desiccated milk or soup is easy to carry. Synonyms : Antonyms : to soak Derivatives : desiccated, desiccation, desiccative, desiccator, desiccatory Lesson: 16 Word: 9

stupefy STOO puh fie

to dull the senses as to put into a stupor That boring lecture would stupefy anyone with any intelligence. Synonyms : Antonyms : to excite Derivatives : stupefyingly, stupefaction, stupefacient, stupefactive Lesson: 9 Word: 22

palliate PAL ee ate

to ease pain, guilt or intensity The doctor attempted to palliate the patient's suffering by prescribing drugs. Synonyms : Antonyms : to intensify Derivatives : palliated, palliating, palliation, palliative, palliator, palliatory Lesson: 38 Word: 18

assuage uh SWAYJ

to ease, to mitigate, to make less painful or burdensome, to calm Your kind words should assuage her suffering. The medicine should assuage his pain. Synonyms : allay, alleviate, lighten, soothe Antonyms : to irritate; to intensify Derivatives : assuaged, assuaging, assuagement, assuager Lesson: 4 Word: 4

thwart THWART

to effectively oppose or to stop We were able to thwart the invading forces with bombing by our superior air force. Synonyms : foil, frustrate, baffle, balk, circumvent Antonyms : Derivatives : thwarted, thwartedly, thwarter, thwarting Lesson: 42 Word: 22

ennoble en NOE bul

to elevate, to raise in rank The man was ennobled by his true devotion to mankind. Synonyms : Antonyms : to defame Derivatives : ennobled, ennoblement, ennobling, ennoblish Lesson: 26 Word: 11

embed em BED

to enclose firmly in some mass The fossil has been embedded in the rock for millions of years. Synonyms : Antonyms : to extract Derivatives : embedment Lesson: 31 Word: 8

embolden em BOL dun

to encourage one to be bold or to have courage The general tried to embolden his men before battle. Synonyms : Antonyms : to discourage Derivatives : emboldened, emboldening, emboldens Lesson: 31 Word: 9

abet uh BET

to encourage or to assist (usually an offense against justice or the law) To aid and abet an enemy of the country is a crime. Synonyms : foment, incite, instigate Antonyms : to discourage; to interfere Derivatives : abetment, abettor, abetted, abetting Lesson: 11 Word: 1

vent VENT

to give utterance to He vented his opinions only at the end of the speech. Synonyms : Antonyms : to repress Derivatives : vented, venting Lesson: 45 Word: 23

exalt ig ZALT

to glorify, to praise, to raise in rank The woman was exalted for her successes in the field of science. Synonyms : Antonyms : to defame; to deprecate Derivatives : exalted, exalting, exalts, exaltation, exaltedly, exaltedness, exalter Lesson: 15 Word: 10

renege reh NIG

to go back on one's word Because he has reneged on his promise, I will no longer trust his word. Synonyms : Antonyms : to keep one's word Derivatives : reneged, reneging, reneger Lesson: 60 Word: 19

rout ROUT

to gouge out or to make a furrow in; to expel by force The wood craftsman took his tools and began to rout a furrow into the wood in the shape of a heart. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : router, routed, routing Lesson: 59 Word: 21

vouchsafe VOUCH safe

to grant in a condescending manner I can vouchsafe you a large return on your investment. Synonyms : Antonyms : to refuse to grant Derivatives : vouchsafement Lesson: 60 Word: 25

shepherd (verb) SHEP urd

to guide, to guard, or to tend to The young man was able to shepherd the group of people safely out of the dangerous situation. Synonyms : Antonyms : to neglect Derivatives : shepherding,shepherdless, shepherdlike Lesson: 58 Word: 21

bequeath buh KWEETH

to hand down, to give or to leave in a will I bequeathed my gym shorts to my brother after I graduated from high school. Synonyms : Antonyms : to keep; to horde Derivatives : bequeathal, bequest, bequeathed Lesson: 7 Word: 4

declaim deh KLAME

to harangue, to speak bombastically or vehemently He declaimed his opponents with oratorical vigor. Synonyms : bombast, fustian, rant, rodomontade Antonyms : to mention Derivatives : declaimer, declamation, declamatory, declaimed, declaiming Lesson: 34 Word: 6

beleaguer buh LEEG er

to harass The scandal caused the President to be beleaguered by the press. Synonyms : Antonyms : to shield from Derivatives : beleaguered, beleaguerer Lesson: 15 Word: 5

demur deh MUR

to hesitate, to delay, to object To demur at this time might cause the whole operation to be destroyed. Synonyms : Antonyms : to proceed, to agree, to accede Derivatives : demurred, demurring Lesson: 60 Word: 3

dub DUB

to honor with a new title I dub thee a knight of the Round Table. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : dubbed, dubbing, dubs, dubber Lesson: 63 Word: 6

revere reh VERE

to honor, to regard with respect Nearly all Catholics revere the Pope. Synonyms : adore, venerate, worship Antonyms : to despise Derivatives : reverence, reverent, reverentness, reverential, reverentiality, reverentially Lesson: 1 Word: 21

venerate VEN uh rate

to honor, to revere Although I did not always agree with President Kennedy, I venerate his memory. Synonyms : adore, worship Antonyms : Derivatives : veneration, venerational, venerator, venerable, venerability Lesson: 2 Word: 25

mortify MORE tuh fie

to humiliate, to wound pride, to experience shame It would simply mortify me to have someone say such shameful things about my family. Synonyms : Antonyms : to calm; to soothe Derivatives : mortifyingly, mortifier, mortified, mortifiedly, mortification Lesson: 15 Word: 15

scurry SKUR ee

to hurry about, to scamper The robbers scurried when they heard the police siren. Synonyms : Antonyms : to dawdle; to move slowly Derivatives : scurried, scurrying Lesson: 45 Word: 19

encumber en CUM bur

to impede or to hinder; to hamper; to retard Red tape encumbers all our attempts at action. Synonyms : oppress, overload Antonyms : to free Derivatives : encumberingly, encumbrance, encumbrancer Lesson: 47 Word: 9

imbue im BYOO

to impregnate or to inspire with feelings or opinions The scholar was imbued with the teachings of the philosopher. Synonyms : charge, infect, fire; permeate, infuse, tincture, soak Antonyms : to drain Derivatives : imbued, imbuing, imbuement Lesson: 34 Word: 11

appreciate uh PREE she ate

to increase in value My home has appreciated in value by $10,000. Synonyms : Antonyms : to decrease in value Derivatives : appreciation, appreciator, appreciated, appreciating, appreciative, appreciatively, appreciativeness, appriciatory Lesson: 45 Word: 1

fractious FRAK shus

unruly The fractious students started a food fight. Synonyms : Antonyms : manageable; easy to handle Derivatives : fractiously, fractiousness Lesson: 61 Word: 8

impede im PEDE

to interfere with or to obstruct the progress While the hurricane has impeded the building's construction, the builder feels that it can be completed on time. Synonyms : hinder, obstruct Antonyms : to assist, to promote Derivatives : impeded, impeding, impeder, impedibility, impedible, impedingly, impedient, impediment, impedimental, Lesson: 25 Word: 10

intercede in ter SEDE

to intervene and to act as a mediator I will intercede on your behalf in your dispute with your boss if you believe it will do some good. Synonyms : Antonyms : to stand aside Derivatives : interceder, intercession, intercessional, intercessive, intercessor, intercessorial Lesson: 37 Word: 13

daunt DAWNT

to intimidate, to dismay I am not daunted by your threats. Synonyms : Antonyms : to hearten Derivatives : dauntless, dauntlessly, dauntlessness Lesson: 4 Word: 7

leaven LEV un

to introduce something that spreads throughout and modifies or enlivens The professor leavened his lecture with humorous anecdotes. Synonyms : infuse Antonyms : Derivatives : leavenless, leavening, leavened Lesson: 52 Word: 11

splice SPLISE

to join For Christmas, I am going to give my father an instrument to help him splice his home movies if they break. Synonyms : Antonyms : to sever Derivatives : spliced, splicing Lesson: 48 Word: 21

couple KUH pul

to join or to link together If you will couple the beads, you will have a longer necklace. Synonyms : Antonyms : to separate Derivatives : coupled, couples, coupling Lesson: 45 Word: 5

abscond ab SKOND

to leave secretly and hide After the thief absconded with the bonds, he was never found. Synonyms : flee, fly Antonyms : to give oneself up Derivatives : absconder, absconded Lesson: 26 Word: 2

repose reh POSE

to lie or to be at rest; the state of being at rest; absence of movement When in repose, her little face looks remarkably calm. Synonyms : Antonyms : action; movement; activity Derivatives : reposal, reposed, reposing, reposedly, reposedness, reposeful, reposefully, reposefulness Lesson: 65 Word: 21

stint STINT

to limit to a certain amount; to be frugal Don't stint on the food when you prepare for the party. Synonyms : confine, restrain Antonyms : to be wasteful Derivatives : stinted, stinting, stintedly, stintedness, stinter, stintingly, stintless Lesson: 54 Word: 21

pall PAWL

to lose interest or attraction, to become wearisome After the comedian's first bad jokes, his routine began to pall. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : Lesson: 50 Word: 14

air AIR

to make a public utterance I intend to air my views to the school board and to anybody who will listen. Synonyms : Antonyms : to conceal Derivatives : airs, airing, aired Lesson: 39 Word: 1

atone uh TONE

to make amends He atoned for his theft by repaying his victims. Synonyms : Antonyms : to offend Derivatives : atoned, atoning, atoner, atonement Lesson: 25 Word: 3

ingratiate in GRAY she ate

to make an effort to gain good favor with someone He tried to ingratiate himself with the girl's parents by always being polite. Synonyms : Antonyms : to alienate Derivatives : ingratiating, ingratiatingly, ingratiation, ingratiatory Lesson: 12 Word: 12

rile RILE

to make angry, to arouse resentment The boy would often try to rile his sister and instigate an argument. Synonyms : irritate Antonyms : to soothe Derivatives : riley, riled, riling, riles Lesson: 56 Word: 18

enhance en HANS

to make better, to improve Your chances of passing the test will be enhanced if you study. Synonyms : Antonyms : to worsen Derivatives : enhanced, enhancement, enhancing, enhancer, enhancive Lesson: 12 Word: 8

ameliorate uh MEE lee o rate

to make better, to relieve, to improve Social workers attempt to ameliorate the conditions of people living in the slum areas. Synonyms : Antonyms : to make worse; to aggravate Derivatives : ameliorated, ameliorating, ameliorable, ameliorant, ameliorative, ameliorator, amelioration Lesson: 5 Word: 2

elucidate eh LOO seh date

to make clear, to explain I will try to elucidate some of the important changes in the tax code. Synonyms : explicate, expound Antonyms : to confuse Derivatives : elucidation, elucidative, elucidatory, elucidator Lesson: 5 Word: 10

defile deh FILE

to make dirty, to desecrate, to pollute The gang defiled the school with obscene graffiti. Synonyms : contaminate, taint Antonyms : to enhance Derivatives : defilement, defiler, defiling, defilingly Lesson: 19 Word: 6

augment awg MENT

to make greater or to supplement We must try to augment our savings this year. Synonyms : Antonyms : to diminish Derivatives : augmentable, augmenter, augmentation, augmentative, augmented Lesson: 12 Word: 4

preclude preh KLOOD

to make impossible A low SAT score may preclude your acceptance to that college. Synonyms : Antonyms : to aid Derivatives : precludable, precluded, preclusion, preclusive Lesson: 12 Word: 17

adulterate uh DUL ter ate

to make impure by adding lesser substances; to corrupt The authorities were concerned that the drugs might have been adulterated intentionally. Synonyms : Antonyms : to purify Derivatives : adulterator, adulterant, adulteration, adulterine, adulterous, adulterated, adulterating Lesson: 14 Word: 1

endow en DOW

to provide with income or property, to supply with a talent or quality I plan to endow a million dollars to my former college. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : endowment, endowed Lesson: 48 Word: 7

purse PURS

to pucker or to tighten one's lips The angrier he got, the more he pursed his lips. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : pursed, pursing Lesson: 27 Word: 18

castigate KAS tuh gate

to punish or to subdue by punishment; to criticize with drastic severity The psychologist suggested that the father might begin to castigate his unruly son for his belligerent behavior. Synonyms : punish, chastise Antonyms : to salute Derivatives : castigated, castigating, castigates, castigation, castigator, castigatory Lesson: 26 Word: 4

table TAY bul

to put aside or to postpone (usually relates to parliamentary procedure) The Senate voted to table the bill that would raise taxes. Synonyms : Antonyms : to consider immediately Derivatives : tabled, tabling, tables Lesson: 50 Word: 22

allay uh LAY

to put fear, doubt, anger, or suspicion to rest; to quiet; to relieve In order to allay the patient's pain, the nurse administered a pain reliever. Synonyms : soften, assuage, soothe, mollify, temper, ease, mitigate, Antonyms : to aggravate Derivatives : allayed, allaying, allayer Lesson: 56 Word: 1

propound pruh POUND

to put forth for discussion or analysis The scientist was asked to propound a hypothesis during the discussion. Synonyms : Antonyms : to remove from consideration Derivatives : propounder Lesson: 60 Word: 18

incarcerate in KAR suh rate

to put into prison The judge told the convicted murderer that he would be incarcerated in the state prison. Synonyms : Antonyms : to set free Derivatives : incarceration, incarcerator, incarcerated, incarcerating Lesson: 46 Word: 11

defer deh FUR

to put off action until a future time; to delay The decision has been deferred by the board until next week. Synonyms : postpone, procrastinate Antonyms : to begin immediately Derivatives : deferred, deferring, deferrable Lesson: 36 Word: 6

quell KWELL

to quiet or to put down a disturbance Fortunately, the principal was able to quell the food fight in the cafeteria. Synonyms : Antonyms : to foment; to incite Derivatives : quelled, quelling, quells Lesson: 16 Word: 19

forsake fore SAKE

to quit or to leave entirely; to depart or to withdraw from The father was not about to forsake his children in their time of need. Synonyms : leave, desert, abandon Antonyms : Derivatives : forsaken, forsook, forsaking, forsakes, forsakenly, forsakenness, forsaker Lesson: 42 Word: 3

cite SITE

to quote an authority The lawyer cited many precedents in supporting his case. Synonyms : Antonyms : to allude to Derivatives : cited, citing, citable, citeable Lesson: 43 Word: 3

rant RANT

to rave, to speak in a loud and attacking manner He ranted constantly about how everyone was out to get him. Synonyms : bombastic, claptrap, declamation, fustian, rodomontade Antonyms : to speak peaceably Derivatives : ranted, ranting Lesson: 24 Word: 18

hypothesize high POTH eh size

to reach a conclusion based on an assumption or something not proven Before you begin your experiment, you should hypothesize about the possible outcome. Synonyms : Antonyms : to know with certainty Derivatives : hypothesized, hypothesis, hypotheses, hypothetical, hypothetically Lesson: 9 Word: 9

peruse puh ROOZ

to read or to examine My lawyer says he has not had time to peruse the contract. Synonyms : Antonyms : to skim Derivatives : perusal, perusable, perused, perusing Lesson: 21 Word: 18

conciliate kun SIL ee ate

to reconcile, to pacify, to renew a friendship My husband tried to conciliate me with a gift of roses. Synonyms : appease, mollify, placate, propitiate Antonyms : to estrange Derivatives : conciliated, conciliating, conciliator, conciliatoriness, conciliatorily Lesson: 6 Word: 6

debase deh BASE

to reduce in dignity or quality Do not debase yourself by swearing. Synonyms : abase, corrupt, debauch, demean, deprave, pervert, vitiate Antonyms : to glorify Derivatives : debased, debasing, debasement, debaser, debasingly Lesson: 5 Word: 8

abate uh BAYT

to reduce in intensity or amount The flood waters abated after forty days of rain. Synonyms : decrease, diminish, dwindle, ebb, lessen, reduce, wane Antonyms : to increase Derivatives : abatable, abater, abatement, abated, abating Lesson: 15 Word: 1

pulverize PUL vuh rize

to reduce into small pieces, to demolish The rocks were pulverized by the heavy machine rolling over them. Synonyms : Antonyms : to mold together Derivatives : pulverization, pulverized, pulverizer, pulverous, pulverulent, pulverulently Lesson: 23 Word: 22

pare PAIR

to reduce or to lessen We hope to pare our expenses by staying in inexpensive hotels. Synonyms : Antonyms : to supplement Derivatives : pared, pares, paring Lesson: 55 Word: 12

petulance PECH uh luns

unreasonable touchiness or irritability Petulance is sometimes the trait of a child who is not getting his way. Synonyms : Antonyms : serenity Derivatives : petulant, petulancy, petulantly Lesson: 4 Word: 18

itinerant eye TIN ur unt

traveling from place to place The itinerant preacher ministered throughout the state. Synonyms : Antonyms : settled Derivatives : itinerancy, itineracy, itinerantly, itinerarium, itinerary, itinerate, itineration Lesson: 41 Word: 8

insidious in SID ee us

treacherous or dangerous in a secret sort of way AIDS is insidious because one can have it and transmit it before showing symptoms of the disease. Synonyms : Antonyms : harmless Derivatives : insidiously, insidiousness Lesson: 28 Word: 13

paltry PAWL tree

trifling; petty; worthless He was building paltry houses unfit for occupancy. Synonyms : minor, inconsiderable, slight, insignificant, petty Antonyms : superior Derivatives : paltrier, paltriest, paltrily, paltriness Lesson: 12 Word: 14

platitude PLAT eh tood

trite remark, banal statement That politician can spout platitudes, but he has never passed a bill that has substance. Synonyms : Antonyms : profundity Derivatives : platitudinal, platitudinarian, platitudinize, platitudinous, platitudinously Lesson: 15 Word: 17

hackneyed HAK need

trite, banal, lacking freshness The teacher instructed her students to avoid hackneyed phrases and instead to use something fresh and new. Synonyms : threadbare Antonyms : inventive; fresh Derivatives : Lesson: 18 Word: 13

dissonance DIS uh nuns

unrelated and harsh combination of sounds, discord Dissonance is a part of some contemporary music. Synonyms : Antonyms : harmony Derivatives : dissonant, dissonancy Lesson: 23 Word: 8

immutable eh MYOO tuh bul

unchanging Her love for her husband was immutable. Synonyms : Antonyms : fickle Derivatives : immutability, immutableness, immutably Lesson: 3 Word: 14

pyromania pie ruh MAY nee uh

uncontrollable impulse to ignite fires The arson was due to pyromania rather than a deliberate attempt to collect insurance money. Synonyms : Antonyms : Derivatives : pyromancy, pyromaniac, pyromaniacal Lesson: 47 Word: 16

empathy EM puh the

understanding or identification with another's feelings or situation Having been discriminated against, I have a lot of empathy for those seeking equal pay for equal work. Synonyms : Antonyms : unconcern; disinterest Derivatives : empathetic, empathetically, empathize Lesson: 13 Word: 10

implicit im PLIS it

understood but not directly expressed His implicit remarks left no doubt as to what he meant. Synonyms : Antonyms : obscure Derivatives : implicitly, implicitness, implicity Lesson: 43 Word: 13

esoteric es uh TER ik

understood only by a small group or a select few The English teachers were having an esoteric discussion about the correct usage of some obscure word. Synonyms : Antonyms : obvious Derivatives : esoterical, esoterically, esotericism, esotericist, esoterism, esotery Lesson: 2 Word: 10

tacit TAS it

understood, silent, not spoken, implicit We have a tacit agreement that the goods are delivered only after payment is made. Synonyms : Antonyms : spoken; verbalized Derivatives : tacitly, tacitness, taciturn Lesson: 22 Word: 22

unassailable un uh SALE uh bul

undisputable, not able to be attacked with success The arguments of the lawyer were unassailable; consequently, he won the case. Synonyms : Antonyms : disputable Derivatives : unassailably, unassailableness, unassailed Lesson: 51 Word: 23

chicanery sheh KAY nuh ree

unethical methods, trickery The lawyer used chicanery to get the witness off guard in his testimony. Synonyms : Antonyms : honesty; truthfulness Derivatives : chicaner, chicane, chicaned, chicaning, chicaneries Lesson: 21 Word: 5

inauspicious in ah SPISH us

unfavorable I was disheartened by the inauspicious occasion of his death. Synonyms : Antonyms : promising good results Derivatives : inauspiciously Lesson: 56 Word: 11

incurious in KYOOR ee us

uninterested, lacking normal curiosity I was surprised at his incurious reaction when I told him that the prom queen was interested in him. Synonyms : Antonyms : interested; curious Derivatives : incuriosity, incuriously, incuriousness Lesson: 31 Word: 12

incessant in SES unt

uninterrupted The dog's incessant barking caused the man to have difficulty falling asleep. Synonyms : constant, perennial, perpetual, unremitting Antonyms : intermittent Derivatives : incessancy, incessantly, incessantness, incession Lesson: 16 Word: 12

refractory reh FRAK tuh ree

unmanageable, stubborn with respect to authority A refractory child should be removed from the classroom. Synonyms : headstrong, intractable, recalcitrant, unruly, willful Antonyms : obedient Derivatives : refractorily, refractoriness Lesson: 55 Word: 16

laconic luh KON ik

using a minimum of words; concise to the point of seeming rude After the loss, the coach's remarks were laconic. Synonyms : compendious, concise, pithy, succinct, summary, terse Antonyms : verbose Derivatives : laconian, laconical, laconically, laconicism, laconism Lesson: 8 Word: 17

bombastic bom BASS tik

using inflated language, pompous The politician was bombastic as he railed against big government. Synonyms : claptrap, declamatory, fustian, ranting, rodomontade Antonyms : meek; humble Derivatives : bombastically, bombastical Lesson: 12 Word: 5

abject ab JEKT

utterly hopeless, humiliating, or wretched; contemptible We were concerned about his health when we discovered that he was living in abject poverty. Synonyms : debasing, degrading, despicable; miserable Antonyms : exalted Derivatives : abjection, abjectly, abjectness, abjectedness, abjective Lesson: 48 Word: 1

pernicious pur NISH us

very destructive or harmful, deadly Shooting heroin is a pernicious habit. Synonyms : baneful, deleterious, detrimental, noxious Antonyms : harmless, benign Derivatives : perniciously, perniciousness Lesson: 38 Word: 20

enervation en er VAY shun

weakness A poor diet will cause enervation. Synonyms : emasculation Antonyms : strength Derivatives : enervate, enervated, enervator Lesson: 11 Word: 10

sanguine SANG gwin

very confident The candidate had sanguine expectations for his election to the senate. Synonyms : optimistic, hopeful, sure Antonyms : afraid Derivatives : sanguineness,sanguineous, sanguinary Lesson: 42 Word: 20

arduous AR jew us

very difficult to accomplish or to achieve, very demanding (task) Training to be a gymnast is an arduous activity. Synonyms : Antonyms : easy; not difficult Derivatives : arduously, arduousness Lesson: 18 Word: 3

vigilant VIJ uh lunt

very alert, watchful I have been vigilant in trying to find the thief. Synonyms : Antonyms : unconcerned; inattentive Derivatives : vigilance, vigilantly, vigilantness, vigil Lesson: 7 Word: 24

despicable des PIK uh bul

very bad, contemptible Acting like a bully is despicable. Synonyms : pitiable, scurvy Antonyms : likable Derivatives : despicability, despicableness, despicably Lesson: 31 Word: 7

egregious eh GREE jus

very bad, shocking, conspicuously bad Skipping class is an egregious error. Synonyms : Antonyms : good Derivatives : egregiously, egregiousness Lesson: 38 Word: 8

vitriolic vi tree OL ik

very caustic and sarcastic A teacher should avoid vitriolic remarks in the classroom. Synonyms : Antonyms : kind; harmless Derivatives : Lesson: 42 Word: 24

ardor AR dur

warmth or heat of emotion; extreme force, vigor, or energy His ardor for the revolution cooled off during the course of the war. Synonyms : passion, intensity, fervor, enthusiasm, zeal Antonyms : lack of energy or enthusiasm Derivatives : ardour, ardors Lesson: 36 Word: 1

dross DROSE

waste material Separating gold from the dross by hand is backbreaking labor. Synonyms : Antonyms : valuable matter Derivatives : drosser, drossy, drossier, drossiest Lesson: 62 Word: 6

dissipation dis uh PAY shun

wasteful spending, squandering Even though he inherited a million dollars, I expect quick dissipation of his fortune. Synonyms : Antonyms : collection Derivatives : dissipate, dissipated, dissipatedly, dissipatedness, dissipater, dissipative Lesson: 14 Word: 9

prodigal PROD uh gul

wasteful, a person given to extravagance The prodigal son squandered his inheritance. Synonyms : lavish, lush, luxuriant, profuse Antonyms : thrifty individual Derivatives : prodigality, prodigally, prodigalize Lesson: 1 Word: 18

wary WARE ee

watchful or on one's guard; cautious; careful The speaker was wary of grammatical errors. Synonyms : alert, vigilant, guarded, circumspect, prudent Antonyms : rash Derivatives : warier, wariest, warily, wariness Lesson: 64 Word: 25

jaded JAY did

weary from overuse, surfeited Jaded with the hedonistic life of a playboy, he decided to look for a more altruistic existence. Synonyms : Antonyms : fresh Derivatives : jade, jadedly, jadedness Lesson: 60 Word: 10

valid VAL id

well-grounded, justifiable I found his reasons valid, and I accepted his statement. Synonyms : Antonyms : unjustified Derivatives : validate, validation, validatory, validity, validly, validness Lesson: 41 Word: 24

hoary HORE ee

white with age The hoary old man had many wrinkles. Synonyms : Antonyms : young Derivatives : hoarier, hoariest Lesson: 40 Word: 12

turbulence TUR byuh luns

wild or disturbing activity There is a lot of turbulence during a hurricane. Synonyms : Antonyms : stillness Derivatives : turbulent, turbulation, turbulator, turbulency, turbulently Lesson: 10 Word: 24

winsome WIN sum

winning, engaging, or charming The young lady had a winsome smile that won her many friends. Synonyms : Antonyms : repugnant; rude Derivatives : winsomely, winsomeness Lesson: 48 Word: 25

prudent PROOD unt

wise and careful about practical matters In the city, it is prudent to have locks on all doors and windows. Synonyms : judicious, sage, sane, sapient Antonyms : indiscreet; incautious Derivatives : prudence, prudential, prudently Lesson: 23 Word: 21

sagacious suh GAY shus

wise, shrewd, very discerning The sagacious freshman knew not to buy an elevator pass from the senior attempting a clever ruse. Synonyms : astute, perspicacious Antonyms : ignorant; uninformed; undiscerning Derivatives : sagaciate, sagaciously, sagaciousness, sagacity Lesson: 19 Word: 20

awry uh RYE

with a turn or twist to one side; away from the expected direction Our plans have suddenly gone awry. Synonyms : askew, amiss, wrong Antonyms : aligned Derivatives : Lesson: 59 Word: 2

unequivocal un eh KWIV uh kul

without a doubt, clear The President stated in an unequivocal manner, "If nominated, I will run; and if elected, I will serve." Synonyms : Antonyms : doubtful; questionable; ambiguous Derivatives : unequivocally, unequivocalness Lesson: 24 Word: 24

a cappella ah cuh PEL luh

without accompaniment by an instrument The girl had to sing acappella when her piano accompanist did not appear at the audition. Synonyms : Antonyms : accompanied Derivatives : Lesson: 65 Word: 1

guileless GILE les

without deceit The voting public looks for a leader who is guileless; they want one who is full of integrity. Synonyms : Antonyms : deceitful Derivatives : guileful, guilefulness, guileness, guilelessly, guilelessness, guilery Lesson: 18 Word: 12