Vocabulary

Deviate

-To depart, especially from a path or plan -depart from an established course

Smear Campaign

-a planned attempt to harm the reputation of a person or company by telling lies about them

Watchword

-a secret word or phrase known only to a restricted group -a word or phrase expressing a person's or group's core aim or belief

Toady

-one who flatters in the hope of gaining favors -flatterer; yes-man -act in an obsequious way

Tame

ADJECTIVE -(of an animal) not dangerous or frightened of people; domesticated. -(of a person) willing to cooperate. (informal) "every businessman needs a tame lawyer at his elbow" -not exciting, adventurous, or controversial. (derogatory) "network TV on Saturday night is a pretty tame affair" -(of a plant) produced by cultivation VERB -domesticate (an animal) -make less powerful and easier to control -cultivate (land or wilderness)

Overleaf

ADVERB -on the other side of the page

Prime /prīm/

Adjective -of first importance; main. "her prime concern is the well-being of the patient" -from which another thing may derive or proceed. "Diogenes' conclusion that air is the prime matter" -of the best possible quality; excellent. "prime cuts of meat" -having all the expected or typical characteristics of something. "the novel is a prime example of the genre" -most suitable or likely. "it's the prime contender for best comedy of the year" MATHEMATICS -(of a number) evenly divisible only by itself and one (e.g., 2, 3, 5, 7, 11). -(of two or more numbers in relation to each other) having no common factor but one. "a congruence whose modulus is a number prime to b" Noun -a state or time of greatest strength, vigor, or success in a person's life. "you're in the prime of life" ARCHAIC -the beginning or first period of something. "the prime of the world" CHRISTIAN CHURCH -a service forming part of the Divine Office, traditionally said (or chanted) at the first hour of the day (i.e., 6 a.m.), but now little used. -a prime number. PRINTING -a symbol (ʹ) written after a letter or symbol as a distinguishing mark or after a figure as a symbol for minutes or feet. FENCING -the first of eight standard parrying positions. -short for prime rate. Verb -make (something) ready for use or action. -prepare (a firearm or explosive device) for firing or detonation. "he grabbed a gun from a nearby wall and primed it" -cover (a surface) with a preparatory coat of paint in order to prevent the absorption of subsequent layers of paint. "prime the new timber before painting the sill" -pour or spray liquid into (a pump) before starting in order to seal the moving parts and facilitate its operation. "ensure a sufficient head of water is available to prime the pump" -inject extra fuel into (the cylinder or carburetor of an internal combustion engine) in order to facilitate starting. -(of a steam engine or its boiler) mix water with the steam being passed into the cylinder. BIOCHEMISTRY -serve as a starting material for (a polymerization process). "the oligonucleotide might prime DNA polymerase activity at multiple sites" -prepare (someone) for a situation or task, typically by supplying them with relevant information. "the sentries had been primed to admit him without challenge"

Inebriate

Adjective (inebriated) -drunk, intoxicated Verb -make (someone) drunk; intoxicate

Prelude

An action or event serving as an introduction to something more important.

stereotyping bias

Bias that occurs when an interviewer or reviewer assumes a candidate has specific traits because they are a member of a particular group.

Grandiose

Impressive and imposing in appearance or style, especially pretentiously so.

Tryst /trist/

LITERARY Noun -a private romantic rendezvous between lovers. "a moonlight tryst" Verb -keep a private, romantic rendezvous.

Whir /(h)wər/

Noun -(especially of a machine or a bird's wings) make a low, continuous, regular sound. "the ceiling fans whirred in the smoky air"

Reversal /rəˈvərsəl/

Noun -a change to an opposite direction, position, or course of action. "a dramatic reversal in population decline in the Alps" LAW -an annulment of a judgment, sentence, or decree made by a lower court or authority. "the Court has upheld the appellate justices in their reversal of the trial court judgment" -an adverse change of fortune. "the league champions suffered a reversal at the finals last month" PHOTOGRAPHY -direct production of a positive image from an exposed film or plate; direct reproduction of a positive or negative image.

Barrage /bəˈrä(d)ZH/

Noun -a concentrated artillery bombardment over a wide area. -a concentrated outpouring, as of questions or blows. "she was not prepared for his barrage of questions" -a dam placed in a watercourse to increase the depth of water or to divert it into a channel for navigation or irrigation Verb -bombard (someone) with something. "his doctor was barraged with unsolicited advice"

Plight /plīt/

Noun -a dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation. "we must direct our efforts toward relieving the plight of children living in poverty" Verb (2) ARCHAIC -pledge or promise solemnly (one's faith or loyalty). "men to plighted vows were faithful" -be engaged to be married to.

Predicament /prəˈdikəmənt/

Noun -a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation. "the club's financial predicament" -(in Aristotelian logic) each of the ten "categories," often listed as: substance or being, quantity, quality, relation, place, time, posture, having or possession, action, and passion. -the character, status, or classification assigned by a predication -condition; state; (especially) a difficult, perplexing, or trying situation

Scoundrel /ˈskoundrəl/

Noun -a dishonest or unscrupulous person; a rogue. "that scoundrel sets a bad example for the other young men" -a disreputable person -a dishonest person; a villain

Ennui /änˈwē/

Noun -a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement. "he succumbed to ennui and despair" -dissatisfaction and restlessness resulting from boredom or apathy

Awe /ô/

Noun -a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder. "they gazed in awe at the small mountain of diamonds" ARCHAIC -capacity to inspire awe. "is it any wonder that Christmas Eve has lost its awe?" Verb -inspire with awe. "they were both awed by the vastness of the forest"

Barge /bärj/

Noun -a flat-bottomed boat for carrying freight, typically on canals and rivers, either under its own power or towed by another. -a long ornamental boat used for pleasure or ceremony. -a boat used by the chief officers of a warship. Verb -move forcefully or roughly. "we can't just barge into a private garden" -(chiefly in a sporting context) collide with. "displays of dissent, such as deliberately barging into the umpire" -convey (freight) by barge. -to move ponderously or clumsily -to move or push in a fast and often rude way "he barged through the crowd."

Amity /ˈamədē/

Noun -a friendly relationship. "international amity and goodwill"

Entourage /ˌänto͝oˈräZH/

Noun -a group of people attending or surrounding an important person. "an entourage of bodyguards" -a group of people who go with and assist an important person

Friar /ˈfrī(ə)r/

Noun -a member of any of certain religious orders of men, especially the four mendicant orders (Augustinians, Carmelites, Dominicans, and Franciscans). -a member of a men's Roman Catholic group who is poor and studies or teaches about Christianity

Misogynist /məˈsäjənəst/

Noun -a person who dislikes, despises, or is strongly prejudiced against women. "a bachelor and renowned misogynist" Adjective -relating to or characteristic of a misogynist. "a misogynist attitude"

Lurker

Noun -a person who lurks, in particular a user of an Internet message board or chat room who does not participate.

Gait /ɡāt/

Noun -a person's manner of walking. "the easy gait of an athlete" -the paces of an animal, especially a horse or dog.

Lodging /ˈläjiNG/

Noun -a place in which someone lives or stays temporarily. "a fee for board and lodging" -a room or rooms rented out to someone, usually in the same residence as the owner. "he was looking for lodgings and a job" -sleeping accommodations "found lodging in the barn" -a temporary place to stay "a lodging for the night" -a room in the house of another used as a residence —usually used in plural KIDS DEFINITION -a temporary living or sleeping place -a room or rooms in the house of another person rented as a place to live

Foretaste

Noun -a sample or suggestion of something that lies ahead. -an advance indication, sample, or warning

Giddiness /ˈɡidēnəs/

Noun -a sensation of whirling and a tendency to fall or stagger; dizziness. "symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and giddiness" -a state of excitable frivolity. "the fans can be forgiven their giddiness"

Slug

Noun -a slow, lazy person; a sluggard. -an amount of an alcoholic drink, typically liquor, that is gulped or poured. "he took a slug of whiskey" -an elongated, typically rounded piece of metal. "the reactor uses embedded slugs of uranium" -a counterfeit coin; a token. NORTH AMERICAN -a bullet, especially a lead one. -a missile for an air gun. Verb -drink (something, typically alcohol) in a large draft; swig. "she picked up her drink and slugged it straight back"

Sheen /SHēn/

Noun -a soft luster on a surface. "black crushed velvet with a slight sheen" -a bright or shining condition; brightness -a subdued glitter approaching but short of optical reflection -is a quality of things that are shiny, usually with reflected light. Verb LITERARY -shine or cause to shine softly. "men entered with rain sheening their steel helms" -to be bright

By contras

The act of comparing in order to show differences

Relish

Verb -enjoy greatly -be pleased by or about -make pleasant to the taste; add relish t Gerund or present participle: relishing

Emigrate /ˈeməˌɡrāt/

Verb -leave one's own country in order to settle permanently in another. "Rosa's parents emigrated from Argentina"

Over-egg

Verb -over-embellish or exaggerate (something)

Hindsight

understanding of a situation or event only after it has happened or developed

Docile /däsel/

Adjective -ready to accept control or instructions; submissive "a cheap and docile workforce"

Sweltering /ˈswelt(ə)riNG/

Adjective -uncomfortably hot. "the sweltering afternoon heat" -oppressively hot

Discourtesy

-rude and inconsiderate behavior -an impolite act or remark

Quaint

ADJECTIVE -odd or old-fashioned in a pleasing way; skillfully made -attractively unusual or old-fashioned

Fastidious

Adjective -very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail "he chooses his words with fastidious care" -very concerned about matters of cleanliness "the child seemed fastidious about getting her fingers sticky or dirty"

Rhetoric (Noun)

-the art of using language effectively and persuasively -the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the use of figures of speech and other compositional techniques -language designed to have a persuasive or impressive effect on its audience, but often regarded as lacking in sincerity or meaningful content

Predicate

-the part of a sentence or clause containing a verb and stating something about the subject -tells about what the subject does

Fairly

-with justice Example: "he could not fairly be accused of wasting police time" -to quite a high degree Example: "I was fairly certain she had nothing to do with the affair" -actually (used to emphasize something surprising or extreme) Example: "he fairly snarled at her"

Ungainly

Adjective -(of a person or movement) awkward; clumsy

Unwary

Adjective -not cautious; not aware of possible dangers or problems

Unfazed /ˌən-ˈfāzd/

Adjective -not confused, worried, or shocked by something that has happened

Unobtrusive /ˌənəbˈtro͞osiv/

Adjective -not conspicuous or attracting attention. "corrections should be neat and unobtrusive" -not obtrusive; not blatant, arresting, or aggressive -not attracting attention in a way that bothers you

Unwaning

Adjective -not diminishing; constant, perpetual "the miracle of the unwaning oil in the temple"

Innocuous /iˈnäkyo͞oəs/

Adjective -not harmful or offensive. "it was an innocuous question" -producing no injury; harmless -not likely to give offense or to arouse strong feelings or hostility; inoffensive; insipid

Inverse

Adjective -opposite or contrary in position, direction, order, or effect. Noun -something that is the opposite or reverse or something else

Androgynous /anˈdräjənəs/

Adjective -partly male and partly female in appearance; of indeterminate sex. "a stunningly androgynous dancer" DATED -having the physical characteristics of both sexes; hermaphrodite.

Valiant /ˈvalyənt/

Adjective -possessing or showing courage or determination. "she made a valiant effort to hold her anger in check" -possessing or acting with bravery or boldness; courageous "valiant soldiers"

Underlying

Adjective -significant as a cause or basis of something but not necessarily manifest or obvious -lying or situated under something Verb -be a significant cause or basis of (something) even if not necessarily manifest or obvious -(especially of a layer of rock or soil) lie or be situated under (something)

Inane

Adjective -silly; stupid. "don't constantly badger people with inane questions"

Ponderous /pänd(e)res/

Adjective -slow and clumsy because of great weight (and size) "her footsteps were heavy and ponderous" -dull (lifeless), laborious, or excessively solemn "Liz could hardly restrain herself from finishing all his ponderous sentences"

Inimitable /iˈnimədəb(ə)l/

Adjective -so good or unusual as to be impossible to copy; unique. "the inimitable ambience of Hawaii" -not capable of being imitated; matchless "her own inimitable style"

Banal /bəˈnäl,bəˈnal/

Adjective -so lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring. "songs with banal, repeated words" -common, ordinary

Illustrious /iˈləstrēəs/

Adjective -well known, respected, and admired for past achievements. "his illustrious predecessor" -notably or brilliantly outstanding because of dignity or achievements or actions : EMINENT ARCHAIC -shining brightly with light -clearly evident

Illustrious /iˈləstrēəs/

Adjective -well known, respected, and admired for past achievements. "his illustrious predecessor" -notably or brilliantly outstanding because of dignity or achievements or actions; eminent -admired and respected because of greatness or achievement ARCHAIC -shining brightly with light -clearly evident

Frenzied /ˈfrenzēd/

Adjective -wildly excited or uncontrolled. "a frenzied attack" -is a feeling or showing great or abnormal excitement or emotional disturbance "frenzied dancing" -very excited or upset

Dormant /ˈdȯr-mənt/

Adjective HERALDRY -represented on a coat of arms in a lying position with the head on the forepaws -marked by a suspension of activity: such as a. temporarily devoid of external activity "a dormant volcano" b. temporarily in abeyance yet capable of being activated "seeds will remain dormant until spring" -asleep, inactive "dormant creatures"

Emulate

Adjective -match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation. "lesser men trying to emulate his greatness" -imitate. "hers is not a hairstyle I wish to emulate"

Hinge

Noun -a movable joint or mechanism on which a door, gate, or lid swings as it opens and closes, or that connects linked objects. -a natural joint that performs a function similar to a hinge, for example that of a bivalve shell. -a central point or principle on which everything depends Verb -attach or join with or as if with a hinge -(of a door or part of a structure) hang and turn on a hinge -depend entirely on

Enigma /iˈniɡmə/

Noun -a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand. "Madeleine was still an enigma to him" -something hard to understand or explain -an inscrutable or mysterious person -an obscure speech or writing KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -someone or something that is hard to understand "why she quit the team is an enigma to me."

Adversity

Noun -difficulties; misfortune. "resilience in the face of adversity" -hardship

Juxtaposition /ˌjəkstəpəˈziSH(ə)n/

Noun -the fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect. "the juxtaposition of these two images" -the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side often to compare or contrast or to create an interesting effect "an unusual juxtaposition of colors"

Con man /ˈkän man/

Noun INFORMAL -a man who cheats or tricks someone by gaining their trust and persuading them to believe something that is not true.

Exasperate /ig'zaspe,rāt/

Verb -irritate and frustrate (someone) intensely "this futile process exasperates prison officials" Exasperating /ig'zaspe,rādiNG/ Adjective -intensely irritating and frustrating "they suffered a number of exasperating setbacks

Perpetuate /pərˈpeCHəˌwāt/

Verb -make (something, typically an undesirable situation or an unfounded belief) continue indefinitely. "the law perpetuated the interests of the ruling class" -preserve (something valued) from oblivion or extinction. "how did these first humans survive to perpetuate the species?"

Alleviate

Verb -make (suffering, deficiency, or problem) less severe "he couldn't prevent her pain, only alleviate it"

Liaise

Verb -establish a working relationship, typically in order to cooperate on a matter of mutual concern. "she will liaise with teachers across the country"

Abound

Verb -exist in large numbers or amounts "rumors of a further scandal abound" -have in large numbers or amounts "this land abounds with wildlife"

Transvestism

-commonly termed as cross-dressing, means to dress in the clothing of opposite sex.

Continuously

-without stopping -things that recur nonstop

Frown

Verb -a facial expression of dislike or displeasure -disapprove of

Prudence

the quality of being prudent; cautiousness

Condescending

-possessing an attitude of superiority, patronizing -showing that you consider yourself better or more intelligent

Inwardness /ˈinwərdnəs/

-preoccupation with one's inner self; concern with spiritual or philosophical matters rather than externalities. "I sensed his inwardness and his desire not to talk" -close acquaintance; familiarity -fundamental nature; essence -absorption in one's own mental or spiritual life -one's private thoughts, feelings, and reflections

To

-preposition with several meanings e.g., "toward" and "until"

Glaringly

-in a way that gives out or reflects a strong or dazzling light -in a highly obvious or conspicuous manner

Badger baiting

-is a form of blood sport in which badgers are baited with dogs

Cliche

-a phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought. -a very predictable or unoriginal thing or person -a stereotype or electrotype

Prudent

-acting with or showing care and thought for the future -cautious; careful

Entreat

-ask someone earnestly or anxiously to do something -ask earnestly or anxiously for (something) -treat (someone) in a specified manner

Evoke

-bring or recall to the conscious mind -recall a memory -get a response as a result of some action

Brevity

-concise and exact use of words in writing or speech -shortness of time.

Distraught /dəˈstrôt/

-deeply upset and agitated. "distraught parents looking for a runaway teenager"

Methodical

-done according to a systematic or established form of procedure. -orderly

Couch

-express (something) in language of a specified style "many false claims are couched in scientific style" -to express something using a particular style or choice of words -lie down "two creatures couched side by side in the deep grass"

Fro /frō/

Adverb ARCHAIC•DIALECT BRITISH -from. Adverb -back; away—used in the phrase to and fro KIDS DEFINITION (Adverb) -in a direction away "she nervously walked to and fro."

Thither /ˈT͟HiT͟Hər/

Adverb ARCHAIC•LITERARY -to or toward that place. "no trickery had been necessary to attract him thither"

Abstract noun

a noun denoting an idea, quality, or state rather than a concrete object. "the website contains considerably more abstract nouns than hard facts"

Venerable

ADJECTIVE -accorded a great deal of respect, especially because of age, wisdom, or character

Ancient

ADJECTIVE -belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence. -(for old monuments) NOUN -an old person

Beatific

ADJECTIVE -blissfully happy -imparting holy bliss -the idea of a serene and saintly kind of happiness

Serene

ADJECTIVE -calm, peaceful, and untroubled; tranquil -(in a title) used as a term of respect for members of some European royal families NOUN -an expanse of clear sky or calm sea

Euphoric

ADJECTIVE -characterized by or feeling intense excitement and happiness -the idea of a dangerously exaggerated or unstable kind of happiness

Rapturous

ADJECTIVE -characterized by, feeling, or expressing great pleasure or enthusiasm

Whereas

Conjunction -in contrast or comparison with the fact that "you treat the matter lightly, whereas I myself was never more serious" -(especially in legal preambles) taking into consideration the fact that.

Edification /ˌedəfəˈkāSH(ə)n/

Noun FORMAL -the instruction or improvement of a person morally or intellectually. "the idea that art's main purpose is to supply moral uplift and edification"

High-falutin

Pompous or pretentious

Adopt

Transitive verb -means to bring up another person's child as one's own. -to take on, accept or follow a plan, idea or attitude. -may also mean to choose another country as one's residence -formally accept or approve (a report or suggestion) British -choose (someone) as a candidate for office

Adapt

Transitive verb -means to modify something in order to make it useful for a new purpose. Intransitive verb -means to adjust oneself to a new situation or circumstance -to adjust or change to suit conditions

Inaugurate /iˈnôɡ(y)əˌrāt/

Verb -begin or introduce (a system, policy, or period). "he inaugurated a new policy of trade and exploration" -admit (someone) formally to public office. "the new President will be inaugurated on January 20" -mark the beginning or first public use of (an organization or project). "the museum was inaugurated on September 12"

Augur /ˈôɡər/

Verb -(of an event or circumstance) portend a good or bad outcome. "the end of the cold war seemed to augur well" -portend or bode (a specified outcome). "a new coalition would not augur a new period of social reforms" ARCHAIC -foresee or predict. -to show or suggest something that might happen in the future

Puzzlement

a feeling of confusion through lack of understanding

Shorthand

a method of writing rapidly by substituting characters, abbreviations, or symbols for letters, sounds, words, or phrases

Fallacies

a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound argument -are common errors in reasoning that will undermine the logic of your argument -can be either illegitimate arguments or irrelevant points, and are often identified because they lack evidence that supports their claim -used of invalid or otherwise faulty reasoning, or "wrong moves" in the construction of an argument

oddity

a strange or peculiar person, thing, or trait; something unsual.

Subjunctive Mood

a verb form used to express a wish, suggestion, command, or a condition that is contrary to fact

Jingle

an awkward duplication or clashing of sounds, a jarring rhyme, or the like

Thereby

by that means or because of that

Scrutiny

critical observation or examination

counterfactual thinking

imagining alternative scenarios and outcomes that might have happened, but didn't

Unaided

needing or having no assistance; without help.

Goldilocks Principle

not too hard, not too soft, just right

More so

of the same kind to a greater degree

naive realism

the belief that people everywhere see the world in the same way

Well-read

-(of a person) knowledgeable and informed as a result of extensive reading. -having read many books and therefore having gained a lot of knowledge

Inference

-A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning -the process of inferring something

Hallmark

-A mark indicating quality, purity, genuineness, etc. -Any distinguishing characteristic of something or someone

Euphemism

-An indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant -a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarassing

Congruent

-In agreement or harmony -Identical in form; coinciding exactly when superimposed -Having the same size and shape

Deal

-Inflict (a blow) on (someone or something) "hopes of an economic recovery were dealt another blow"

Inoculation

-Injecting a person with a small dose of a virus to help him or her build up defenses to a disease -The action of inoculating or of being inoculated; vaccination

Vertigo

-It's the sensation that you, or the environment around you, is moving or spinning

Gesture

-Motion of hands or body to emphasize or help to express a thought or feeling -Movement made to demonstrate an idea or sentiment.

Logic

-Reasoning conducted or assessed according to strict principles of validity -a principle that deals with the principles and criteria of validity of inference and demonstration.

Ramifications

-a consequence of an action or event, especially when complex or unwelcome.

Buoyant

ADJECTIVE -able or apt to stay afloat or rise to the top of a liquid or gas. -cheerful and optimistic

Fussy

Adjective -(of a person) fastidious about one's needs or requirements; hard to please -showing excessive or anxious concern about detail -full of unnecessary detail or decoration

Crooked

Adjective -bent or twisted out of shape or out of place "his teeth were yellow and crooked" -dishonest; illegal (informal)

Loath /lōTH,lōT͟H/

Adjective -reluctant; unwilling. "I was loath to leave"

Charlatanry

Noun -Pretending to have expert knowledge or skill that one does not have

Antipathy /anˈtēpəTHē/

Noun -a deep-seated feeling of dislike; aversion. "his fundamental antipathy to capitalism"

Fortnight

Noun -a period of two weeks -used after the name of a day to indicate that something will take place two weeks after that day

Soirée /swäˈrā/

Noun -an evening party or gathering, typically in a private house, for conversation or music.

Gibe /jīb/

Noun -an insulting or mocking remark; a taunt. "a gibe at his old rivals" Verb -make insulting or mocking remarks; jeer. "some cynics in the media might gibe"

Flux /fləks/

Noun (Physics) -the rate of flow of a fluid, radiant energy, or particles across a given area. -the amount of radiation or number of particles incident on an area in a given time. -the total electric or magnetic field passing through a surface. Noun (Medicine) -an abnormal discharge of blood or other matter from or within the body. ARCHAIC -diarrhea or dysentery. Noun (Metallurgy) -a substance mixed with a solid to lower its melting point, used especially in soldering and brazing metals or to promote vitrification in glass or ceramics. -a substance added to a furnace during metal smelting or glassmaking that combines with impurities to form slag. Noun (Pottery) -a substance mixed with a solid to lower its melting point, used especially in soldering and brazing metals or to promote vitrification in glass or ceramics. Noun -a series of changes; continuous change "Language is in a state of constant flux. = Language is constantly in a state of flux. [=language is changing constantly]" -technical: a substance used for helping to melt or join metals -a continued flow; flood "a flux of words"

Malaprop

Noun (malapropism) -the mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with unintentionally amusing effect, as in, for example, "dance a flamingo" (instead of flamenco)

Ambiguity

The multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.

hindsight bias (I-knew-it-all-along phenomenon)

The tendency, after learning about an outcome, to be overconfident in one's ability to have predicted it.

Similarly

Used to indicate a similarity between two facts or events.

Dazzle

VERB -(of a bright light) blind (a person) temporarily "she was dazzled by the headlights" -amaze or overwhelm (someone) with a particular impressive quality "i was dazzled by the beauty and breadth of the exhibition" -(of the eyes) be affected by a bright light "my eyes dazzled and i could not move" NOUN -brightness that confuses someone's vision temporarily "a dazzle of green and red spotlights"

Bestow

VERB -confer or present (an honor, right, or gift).

Correspond

VERB -have a close similarity; match or agree almost exactly "corresponds to" -be analogous or equivalent in character, form, or function -communicate by exchanging letters "margaret corresponded with him until his death"

Unravel

VERB -investigate and solve or explain (something complicated or puzzling) -undo (twisted, knitted, or woven threads) -(of twisted, knitted, or woven threads) become undone -(of an intricate process, system, or arrangement) disintegrate or be destroyed

Revolt

VERB -rise in rebellion -refuse to acknowledge someone or something as having authority -cause to feel disgust -feel strong disgust ADJECTIVE (Revolting) -causing intense disgust; disgusting

Pervade /pərˈvād/

Verb -(especially of a smell) spread through and be perceived in every part of. "a smell of stale cabbage pervaded the air" -(of an influence, feeling, or quality) be present and apparent throughout. "the sense of crisis that pervaded Europe in the 1930s"

Scurry /ˈskərē/

Verb -(of a person or small animal) move hurriedly with short quick steps. "pedestrians scurried for cover"

Guzzle /ˈɡəzəl/

Verb -eat or drink (something) greedily. "this car guzzles gas"

Succumb

Verb -fail to resist pressure, temptation, or some other negative force -die from the effect of a disease or injury

Extricate /ˈekstrəˌkāt/

Verb -free (someone or something) from a constraint or difficulty. "he was trying to extricate himself from official duties"

Wield /wēld/

Verb -hold and use (a weapon or tool). "a masked raider wielding a handgun" -have and be able to use (power or influence). "faction leaders wielded enormous influence within the party" CHIEFLY DIALECTAL -to deal successfully with; manage -to handle (something, such as a tool) especially effectively "wield a broom" -to exert one's authority by means of "wield influence" -to have at one's command or disposal "did not wield appropriate credentials"

Accentuate /əkˈsen(t)SHəˌwāt,akˈsen(t)SHəˌwāt/

Verb -make more noticeable or prominent. "his jacket unfortunately accentuated his paunch" -to make (something) more prominent or noticeable; accent, emphasize "with her hair in tight curls that accentuate her pale beauty, she seems lit from within." -(also) intensify "accentuates the feeling of despair"

Diminish /dəˈminiSH/

Verb -make or become less. "a tax whose purpose is to diminish spending" -make (someone or something) seem less impressive or valuable. "the trial has aged and diminished him"

Dilate /dīˈlāt,ˈdīˌlāt/

Verb -make or become wider, larger, or more open. "her eyes dilated with horror"

Budge /bəj/

Verb -make or cause to make the slightest movement. "the line in the bank hasn't budged" INFORMAL -make room for another person by moving. "budge over, boys, make room for your uncle" -change or make (someone) change an opinion. "I tried to persuade him, but he wouldn't budge"

Shun

Verb -persistently avoid, ignore, or reject (someone or something) through antipathy or caution.

Rummage /ˈrəmij/

Verb -search unsystematically and untidily through a mass or receptacle. "he rummaged in his pocket for a handkerchief" -find (something) by rummaging. "Mick rummaged up his skateboard" -(of a customs officer) make a thorough search of (a vessel). "our brief was to rummage as many of the vessels as possible" Noun -an unsystematic and untidy search through a mass or receptacle. "open up the box and have a rummage around" -a thorough search of a vessel by a customs officer. "a rummage of the vessel revealed eighty cases of cigars"

Weep /wēp/

Verb -shed tears. "a grieving mother wept over the body of her daughter" -utter or express with tears. ""No!" she wept" ARCHAIC -mourn for; shed tears over. "a young widow weeping her lost lord" -exude liquid. "she rubbed the sore, making it weep"

Astound /əˈstound/

Verb -shock or greatly surprise. "her bluntness astounded him"

Simper /ˈsimpər/

Verb -smile in an affectedly coy or ingratiating manner. "she simpered, looking pleased with herself" -to smile in a silly or annoying way "she gave her teacher a simpering smile" Adjective (+Ing) -affectedly coy or ingratiating. "she is clearly not a simpering female who can be pushed around" -marked by insipidity or by affected or ingratiating timidity "simpering behavior"

Pine /pīn/

Verb -suffer a mental and physical decline, especially because of a broken heart. "she thinks I am pining away from love" -miss and long for the return of. "I was pining for my boyfriend"

Babble /ˈbabəl/

Verb -talk rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way. "they babbled on about their vacation" -utter something rapidly and incoherently. "I gasped and stared and babbled, "Look at this!"" -reveal something secret or confidential by talking carelessly. "he babbled to another convict while he was in jail" -(of a flowing water) make a continuous murmuring sound. "the shallow river babbled over smooth rocks" Noun (+ing) -the action or fact of talking rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way. "the constant babbling of the kids" -the continuous murmuring sound of flowing water. "the babbling of a nearby river" Adjective (+ing) -talking rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way. "the noise of babbling tourists" -(of flowing water) making a continuous murmuring sound. "a gently babbling brook"

Ponder /ˈpändər/

Verb -think about (something) carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion. "I pondered the question of what clothes to wear for the occasion" -to weigh in the mind; appraise "pondered their chances of success" -to think about; reflect on "pondered the events of the day" -to think or consider especially quietly, soberly, and deeply KIDS DEFINITION (Verb) -to think over carefully "stacey pondered the suggestion for a long moment"

Teem /tēm/

Verb -to become filled to overflowing; to be present in large quantities -be full of or swarming with. "every garden is teeming with wildlife" -(of water, especially rain) pour down; fall heavily. "with the rain teeming down at the manor, Italy seemed a long way off" OBSOLETE -to become pregnant; conceive ARCHAIC -bring forth; give birth to; produce

Hamper

Verb -to hold back -hinder or impede the movement or progress of "their work is hampered by the lack of funds"

Prowl /ˈprau̇(-ə)l/

Verb -to move about or wander stealthily in or as if in search of prey -to roam over in a predatory manner

Rove /rōv/

Verb -travel constantly without a fixed destination; wander. "he spent most of the 1990s roving about the Caribbean" -wander over or through (a place) without a fixed destination. "there are children roving the streets" -(of a person's eyes) look in changing directions in order to see something thoroughly. "the policeman's eyes roved around the bar" -form (slivers of wool, cotton, or other fiber) into roves.

Agonize /ˈaɡəˌnīz/

Verb -undergo great mental anguish through worrying about something. "I didn't agonize over the problem" -cause mental anguish to (someone). "a question which will agonize the technocrats" Adjective (add 'd' at the end) -manifesting, suffering, or characterized by great physical or mental pain. "she gave an agonized cry"

Unravel

Verb -undo (twisted, knitted, or woven threads) -(of twisted, knitted, or woven threads) become undone "parts of the crew neck had unraveled" -(of an intricate process, system, or arrangement) disintegrate or be destroyed "his painstaking diplomacy of the last eight months could quickly unravel" -investigate and solve or explain (something complicated or puzzling) "they were attempting to unravel the cause of death"

Bureaucratize /byu̇-ˈrä-krə-ˌtīz/

Verb -used with an object -to divide an administrative agency or office into bureaus.

Relinquish /rəˈliNGkwiSH/

Verb -voluntarily cease to keep or claim; give up. "he relinquished his managerial role to become chief executive"

Stroll /strōl/

Verb -walk in a leisurely way. "I strolled around the city" -to go from place to place in search of work or profit "strolling players" -to walk in a leisurely or idle manner; ramble -to walk at leisure along or about

Saunter /sôn(t)er/

Verb -walk in a slow, relaxed manner, without hurry or effort. "Adam sauntered into the room" Noun -a leisurely stroll. "a quiet saunter down the road"

Amble /ˈambəl/

Verb -walk or move at a slow, relaxed pace. "they ambled along the riverbank" -to go at or as if at an easy gait; saunter "spent the day ambling through the park" Noun -an easy gait of a horse in which the legs on the same side of the body move together -rack -an easy gait -a leisurely walk "took a casual amble through the gardens"

Knead /nēd/

Verb -work (moistened flour or clay) into dough or paste with the hands. -make (bread or pottery) by kneading flour or clay. -massage or squeeze with the hands. "she kneaded his back"

Envelop /ənˈveləp/

Verb -wrap up, cover, or surround completely. "a figure enveloped in a black cloak" -(of troops) surround (an enemy force). "their assignment was to envelop the head of the enemy column and destroy it" -to enclose or enfold completely with or as if with a covering -to mount an attack on (an enemy's flank)

Squirm /skwərm/

Verb -wriggle or twist the body from side to side, especially as a result of nervousness or discomfort. "all my efforts to squirm out of his grasp were useless" -show or feel embarrassment or shame. "he squirmed as he recalled the phrases he had used" -to twist about like a worm; fidget KIDS DEFINITION -to twist about because of nervousness or embarrassment or in an effort to move or escape "it was no use trying to squirm loose" Noun -a wriggling movement. "the toddler gave a sudden squirm"

Covet /ˈkəvət/

Verb -yearn to possess or have (something). -to wish for earnestly "covet an award" -to desire (what belongs to another) inordinately or culpably "the king's brother coveted the throne." -to wish for enviously

Wane /wān/

Verb (1) -(of the moon) have a progressively smaller part of its visible surface illuminated, so that it appears to decrease in size. -(especially of a condition or feeling) decrease in vigor, power, or extent; become weaker. "confidence in the dollar waned" -to become smaller or less; to decrease in size, amount, length, or quality "the scandal caused her popularity to wane." "interest in this issue has continued to wane." "the waning days of summer" -to decrease in size, extent, or degree; dwindle; such as -to diminish in phase or intensity—used chiefly of the moon, other satellites, and inferior planets -to become less brilliant or powerful; DIM -to flow out; EBB -to fall gradually from power, prosperity, or influence Noun (2) -the amount by which a plank or log is beveled or falls short of a squared shape. "I cut the log into slabs without removing the outside wane"

Snuff /snəf/

Verb (1) -extinguish (a candle). "a breeze snuffed out the candle" -trim the charred wick from (a candle). INFORMAL -kill or put an end to in an abrupt or sudden manner. "his life was snuffed out by a sniper's bullet" INFORMAL•BRITISH -die. "the old girl's snuffed it" Noun (1) -the charred part of a candle wick. Noun (2) -powdered tobacco that is sniffed up the nostril rather than smoked. "a pinch of snuff" Verb (2) -inhale or sniff at (something). "they stood snuffing up the keen cold air" ARCHAIC -sniff up powdered tobacco. "they smoked and snuffed a great deal"

Limp /limp/

Verb (1) -walk with difficulty, typically because of a damaged or stiff leg or foot. "he limped heavily as he moved" -to walk lamely; (especially) to walk favoring one leg "the injured player limped off the field." -to go unsteadily; falter "the conversation limped for some time" -o proceed slowly or with difficulty "the ship limped back to port" -(of a damaged ship, aircraft, or vehicle) proceed with difficulty. "the badly damaged aircraft limped back to Sicily" Noun (1) -a tendency to limp; a gait impeded by injury or stiffness. "he walked with a limp" Adjective (2) -lacking internal strength or structure; not stiff or firm. "she let her whole body go limp" -lacking in strength, vigor, or firmness; spiritless -having or denoting a book cover that is not stiffened with board. -without energy or will. "a limp handshake" -weary; exhausted "limp with fatigue" -lacking firm texture, substance, or structure "limp curtains"

Non-fiction

prose writing that is based on facts, real events, and real people, such as biography or history.

Emerge

-move out of or away from something and come into view -become apparent, important, or prominent -(of facts or circumstances) become known

Pompous

-overly self-important in speech and manner -affectedly and irritatingly grand, solemn, or self-important

Cowardice

-lack of bravery; lack of courage

Resort

-the action of turning to and adopting a strategy or course of action, especially a disagreeable or undesirable one, so as to resolve a difficult situation. -turn to and adopt (a strategy or course of action, especially a disagreeable or undesirable one) so as to resolve a difficult situation.

Invoke

-to call on (a deity or spirit) in prayer, as a witness, or for inspiration -to cause a procedure or action to happen -appeal to someone as authority in support of an action

Self-abasing

-to lower oneself in rank, office, prestige, or esteem, often as a lack of confidence or of genuine humility -belittling or degrading oneself

Hone

-to sharpen -refine or perfect (something) over a period of time -give greater strength or firmness to (the body or a part of the body) -another way of saying 'home in on' (see home) Example: "the detectives honed in on the suspect"

Dazed

-unable to think or react properly; bewildered. -make (someone) unable to think or react properly; stupefy; bewilder

Ought

-used to indicate duty or correctness, typically when criticizing someone's actions -used to indicate a desirable or expected state -used to give or ask for advice -used to indicate something that is probable

Sophisticated

-wide-ranging knowledge and appreciation of many parts of the world arising from urban life and wide travel -having, revealing, or proceeding from a great deal of worldly experience and knowledge of fashion and culture. -appealing to people with worldly knowledge or experience -(of a machine, system, or technique) developed to a high degree of complexity EXAMPLE: "highly sophisticated computer systems" -(of a person or their thoughts, reactions, and understanding) aware of and able to interpret complex issues; subtle EXAMPLE: "discussion and reflection are necessary for sophisticated response to a text" -talk or reason in an impressively complex and educated manner - mislead or corrupt ( of a person, an argument, the mind, etc.) by sophistry EXAMPLE: "books of casuistry, which sophisticate the understanding and defile the heart"

Monopoly

Noun -the exclusive possession or control of the supply or trade in a commodity or service. -A market in which there are many buyers but only one seller.

Spinster /ˈspinstər/

Noun DEROGATORY•DATED -an unmarried woman, typically an older woman beyond the usual age for marriage. -a woman whose occupation is to spin -a woman who seems unlikely to marry

Crooked

Adjective -bent or twisted out of shape or out of place -dishonest; illegal (informal)

Lethargy /ˈleTHərjē/

Noun -a lack of energy and enthusiasm. "periods of weakness and lethargy" MEDICINE -a pathological state of sleepiness or deep unresponsiveness and inactivity. "a history of weight loss, lethargy, and fluid retention"

Ensue

Verb -happen or occur afterward or as a result -to follow as a result

Spate

Noun -a large number of similar things or events appearing or occurring in quick succession "a spate of attacks on travelers" -a sudden flood in a river, especially one caused by heavy rains and melting snow

Revue /rəˈvyo͞o/

Noun -a light theatrical entertainment consisting of a series of short sketches, songs, and dances, typically dealing satirically with topical issues. -a theatrical production consisting typically of brief loosely connected often satirical skits, songs, and dances

Proselyte /ˈpräsəˌlīt/

Noun -a person who has converted from one opinion, religion, or party to another. -a new convert (as to a faith or cause) -a Gentile who has converted to Judaism. Verb US -another term for proselytize.

Aesthete /ˈesˌTHēt/

Noun -a person who has or affects to have a special appreciation of art and beauty. -one having or affecting sensitivity to the beautiful especially in art "his passion and breadth as an aesthete are essentially unmatched in his generation." -a person who understands and enjoys beauty -is someone who loves and appreciates works of art and beautiful things.

Facade /fəˈsäd/

Noun -the face of a building, especially the principal front that looks onto a street or open space. -an outward appearance that is maintained to conceal a less pleasant or creditable reality. "her flawless public facade masked private despair"

Apostate /əˈpäˌstāt,əˈpästət/

Noun -a person who renounces a religious or political belief or principle. "after fifty years as an apostate he returned to the faith" -someone whose beliefs have changed and who no longer belongs to a religious or political group Adjective -abandoning a religious or political belief or principle. "an apostate Roman Catholic"

Purveyor /pərˈvāər/

Noun -a person who sells or deals in particular goods. "a purveyor of large luxury vehicles" -a person or group that spreads or promotes an idea, view, etc. "a purveyor of traditional Christian values"

Prose

NOUN -written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure. -plain or dull writing, discourse, or expression -another term for sequence (sense 4 of the noun) VERB -talk seriously -compose in or convert into prose

Verbosity

Noun -The quality of using more words than needed; wordiness

Bough /bou/

Noun -a main branch of a tree. "apple boughs laden with blossom"

Adage /ˈadij/

Noun -a proverb or short statement expressing a general truth. "the old adage "out of sight out of mind."

Tedium /ˈtēdēəm/

Noun -the state of being tedious. "cousins and uncles filled the tedium of winter nights with many a tall tale"

Brunt /brənt/

Noun -the worst part or chief impact of a specified thing. "education will bear the brunt of the cuts"

Chink /CHiNGk/

Noun (1) -a narrow opening or crack, typically one that admits light. "a chink in the curtains" -a patch of light admitted by a narrow opening or crack. "I noticed a chink of light under the door" -a weak spot that may leave one vulnerable "his lawyers found a chink in the law" Verb (2) -make or cause to make a light, high-pitched ringing sound, as of glasses or coins striking together. "the chain joining the handcuffs chinked" -to make a slight sharp metallic sound Noun (2) -a high-pitched ringing sound. "the chink of glasses" ARCHAIC -coin, money -a short sharp sound Noun OFFENSIVE -a Chinese person.

Beware

Verb -be cautious and alert to the dangers of.

Hath /haTH/

Verb ARCHAIC -in the past, the third person singular form of the present tense of "have"

Finagle /fəˈnāɡ(ə)l/

Verb: Informal • US -obtain (something) by devious or dishonest means. "Ted attended all the football games he could finagle tickets for" -act in a devious or dishonest manner. "they wrangled and finagled over the fine points"

Unfold

-Refers to revealing thoughts or information or to make something known that was not known -Reveal or disclose (thoughts or information) -(of information or a sequence of events) being revealed or disclose

Dangling Participle

-a participle intended to modify a noun that is not actually present in the text.

Exception

-a person or thing that is excluded from a general statement or does not follow a rule.

Yardstick

-a standard used for comparison -a measuring rod a yard long, typically divided into inches

Copious

-abundant in supply or quantity -profuse in speech or ideas

Emotion-laden

-are words that activate an emotional component (e.g., funeral, birthday), but do not convey a specific emotion (e.g., sadness, joy).

Err

-be mistaken or incorrect; make a mistake EXAMPLE: "the judge had erred in ruling that the evidence was inadmissible" -fall to adhere to the proper or accepted standards; do wrong EXAMPLE: "he has erred and strayed as many of us have"

Puzzle

-cause (someone) to feel confused because they cannot understand or make sense of something -think hard about something difficult to understand or explain. -solve or understand something by thinking hard

chameleon-like

-changing one's opinions, behavior, or appearance according to the situation

Gomorrah and Sodom

-cities of the plain destroyed by God because of wickedness OLD TESTAMENT -one of two ancient cities near the Dead Sea, the other being Sodom, that were destroyed by God as a punishment for the wickedness of their inhabitants (Genesis 19:24) -is a place notorious for vice and corruption.

Altogether

-completely; totally -including everything or everyone; in total -taking everything into consideration; on the whole

Flock

-congregate or mass in a flock or large group.

Counterintuitive

-contrary to what intuition or common sense would indicate -goes against your gut feeling or commonsense

Decipher

-convert (a text written in code, or a coded signal) into normal language. -succeed in understanding, interpreting, or identifying (something)

Lucid

-expressed clearly; easy to understand -rational, sane -ability to think clearly, especially in the intervals between periods of confusion or insanity Psychology -(of a dream) experienced with the dreamer feeling awake, aware of dreaming, and able to control events consciously.

Anacoluthon

-finishing a sentence with a different grammatical structure from that with which it began -a sentence or construction in which the expected grammatical sequence is absent (e.g., while in the garden, the door banged shut)

Congregate

-gather into a crowd or mass -communal

Trancelike

-in a half-conscious state; between waking and sleeping -mentally confused; unable to think with clarity or act intelligently.

Convoluted

-intricate and complicated -(especially of an argument, story, or sentence) extremely complex and difficult to follow

Neuroticism

-is a long-term tendency to be in a negative or anxious emotional state. -It is not a medical condition but a personality trait. -People with neuroticism tend to have more depressed moods and suffer from feelings of guilt, envy, anger, and anxiety more frequently and more severely than other individuals. -associated with distress and dissatisfaction. -Neurotic individuals (that is, those who are high on the neuroticism dimension) tend to feel dissatisfied with themselves and their lives

Hedonic treadmill

-is a metaphor for the human tendency to pursue one pleasure after another. That's because the surge of happiness that's felt after a positive event is likely to return to a steady personal baseline over time -the observed tendency of humans to quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events or life changes

Too

-is an adverb that can mean "excessively" or "also"

Posture

-the way one holds one's body; a pose or position -using the body as its communicator

Continually

-things that recur frequently -ask "did the action ever stop?" if yes, then use it.

Enormously

-to a great degree or extent; considerably. -(adv.) extremely, by a large amount

Discern

-to perceive or recognize (something) -distinguish (someone or something) with difficulty by sight or with the other senses.

Touché

-used as an acknowledgment during a discussion of a good or clever point made at one's expense by another person. -(in fencing) used as an acknowledgement of a hit by one's opponent

Nor

-used before the second or further of two more alternatives (the first being introduced by a negative such as "neither" or "not") to indicate that they are each untrue or each do not happen. -used after neither to show something is also not true or possible -used to introduce a further negative statement.

Presumably

-used to convey that what is asserted is very likely though not known for certain. -by reasonable assumption

Signposting

-using verbal cues to indicate to an audience where you are in the structure of the speech -using phrases and words to guide the reader through the content of your essay/dissertation

Frail /ˈfrā(ə)l/

Adjective -(of a person) weak and delicate. "she looked frail and vulnerable" -easily damaged or broken; fragile or insubstantial. "the balcony is frail" ARCHAIC -weak in character or morals. Noun DATED•INFORMAL -a woman

Profilic /prəˈlifik/

Adjective -(of a plant, animal, or person) producing much fruit or foliage or many offspring. "in captivity tigers are prolific breeders" -(of an artist, author, or composer) producing many works. "he was a prolific composer of operas" -(of a sports player) high-scoring. "a prolific home-run hitter" -present in large numbers or quantities; plentiful. "mahogany was once prolific in the tropical forests" -(of a river, area, or season of the year) characterized by plentiful wildlife or produce. "the prolific rivers and lakes of Franklin County"

Ragged /ˈraɡəd/

Adjective -(of cloth or clothes) old and torn. "a rough-looking man wearing ragged clothes" -(of a person) wearing old and torn clothes; unkempt. "a ragged child" -(of an animal) having a rough, shaggy coat. "a pair of ragged ponies" -having an irregular or uneven surface, edge, or outline. "a ragged coastline" PRINTING -(especially of a right margin) uneven because the lines are unjustified. -lacking finish, smoothness, or uniformity. "the ragged discipline of the players" -(of a sound) rough or uneven. "he could hear her ragged breathing" -suffering from exhaustion or stress. "he looked a little ragged, a little shadowy beneath the eyes" -roughly unkempt -having an irregular edge or outline -torn or worn to tatters -worn-out from stress and strain "ran herself ragged" -wearing tattered clothes -straggly -executed in an irregular or uneven manner -(of a sound) harsh, dissonant Verb /raɡ/ -make fun of (someone) in a boisterous manner. "he ragged me about not smoking or drinking" -rebuke severely. "I ragged a restaurant last week for mangling Key lime pie"

Blatant /ˈblātnt/

Adjective -(of bad behavior) done openly and unashamedly. "blatant lies" -completely lacking in subtlety; very obvious. "despite their blatant attraction to each other they try to stay just friends"

Ambiguous

Adjective -(of language) open to more than one interpretation; having a double meaning. -unclear or inexact because a choice between alternatives has not been made

Straight-talking

Adjective -open, honest, and direct in speech or writing; frank. "a straight-talking man of principle" -refers to the practice of speaking in a very honest, truthful manner. -direct and straightforward way of communicating with others

Licentious /līˈsenSHəs/

Adjective -promiscuous and unprincipled in sexual matters. "the ruler's tyrannical and licentious behavior" -lacking legal or moral restraints especially; disregarding sexual restraints "licentious behavior" -marked by disregard for strict rules of correctness -sexually immoral or offensive ARCHAIC -disregarding accepted rules or conventions, especially in grammar or literary style.

Self-aggrandizing /ˌselfəˈɡranˌdīziNG/

Adjective -promoting oneself as being powerful or important. "he spoke in typically self-aggrandizing fashion about his gift"

Meek /mēk/

Adjective -quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive. "I used to call her Miss Mouse because she was so meek and mild"

Ravenous /ˈra-və-nəs/

Adjective -rapacious "ravenous wolves" -very eager or greedy for food, satisfaction, or gratification "a ravenous appetite" -extremely hungry; famished; voracious "feeling ravenous after a hard day's work"

Foolhardy /ˈfo͞olˌhärdē/

Adjective -recklessly bold or rash. "it would be foolhardy to go into the scheme without support" -foolishly adventurous and bold; rash "a foolhardy explorer" -foolishly doing things that are too dangerous or risky

Slavish /ˈslāviSH/

Adjective -relating to or characteristic of a slave, typically by behaving in a servile or submissive way. "he noted the slavish, feudal respect they had for her" -showing no attempt at originality, constructive interpretation, or development. "a slavish adherence to protocol"

Iterative /ˈidəˌrādiv,ˈidərədiv/

Adjective -relating to or involving iteration, especially of a mathematical or computational process. LINGUISTICS -denoting a grammatical rule that can be applied repeatedly. GRAMMAR -another term for frequentative. -involving repetition; such as -expressing repetition of a verbal action -utilizing the repetition of a sequence of operations or procedures "iterative programming methods"

Messianic /ˌmesēˈanik/

Adjective -relating to the Messiah. "the messianic role of Jesus" -inspired by hope or belief in a messiah. "the messianic expectations of that time" -fervent or passionate. "an admirable messianic zeal" -relating to or having the qualities of a messiah -supporting a social, political, or religious cause or set of beliefs with great enthusiasm and energy -marked by idealism and an aggressive crusading spirit "messianic zeal"

Proletarian /ˌprōləˈterēən/

Adjective -relating to the proletariat. "a proletarian ideology" Noun -a member of the proletariat. "they are true proletarians"

Amphibious /amˈfibēəs/

Adjective -relating to, living in, or suited for both land and water. "an amphibious vehicle" -(of a military operation) involving forces landed from the sea. "an amphibious assault" -able to be used both on land and water -done by soldiers who are brought to land in special boats; carried out by land and sea forces acting together

Dour /do͝or,ˈdou(ə)r/

Adjective -relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy in manner or appearance. "a hard, dour, humorless fanatic" -serious and unfriendly; silent and gloomy

Prodigious /prəˈdijəs/

Adjective -remarkably or impressively great in extent, size, or degree. "the stove consumed a prodigious amount of fuel" ARCHAIC -unnatural or abnormal. "rumors of prodigious happenings, such as monstrous births"

Countrified /ˈkəntrēˌfīd/

Adjective -reminiscent or characteristic of the country, especially in being unsophisticated. "a countrified cottage garden" -exhibiting the ways or manners of a province; characteristic of the inhabitants of a province

Brassy /ˈbrasē/

Adjective -resembling brass in color. "the last rays of the sun were brassy and chill" -sounding like a brass musical instrument; harsh and loud. "audience members are tapping their feet to the brassy music of the band" -tastelessly showy or loud in appearance or manner (typically used of a woman). "her brassy, audacious exterior" -shamelessly bold "a brassy reporter" Noun INFORMAL•GOLF -a number two wood.

Staid /stād/

Adjective -sedate, respectable, and unadventurous. "staid law firms" -serious, boring, and slightly old-fashioned -serious and dignified; quiet or subdued in character or conduct

Jaded /ˈjādəd/

Adjective -tired, bored, or lacking enthusiasm, typically after having had too much of something. "meals to tempt the most jaded appetites" -fatigued by overwork; exhausted "a jaded horse" -made dull, apathetic, or cynical by experience or by having or seeing too much of something "jaded network viewers"

Tedious /ˈtēdēəs/

Adjective -too long, slow, or dull; tiresome or monotonous. "a tedious journey"

Innumerable

Adjective -too many to be counted (often used hyperbolically).

Twofold /ˈto͞oˌfōld/

Adjective -twice as great or as numerous. "a twofold increase in the risk" -having two parts or elements. "the twofold demands of the business and motherhood" -having two parts or aspects -being twice as great or as many Adverb -so as to double; to twice the number or amount. "use increased more than twofold from 1979 to 1989"

Inexplicable /ˌinekˈsplikəb(ə)l/

Adjective -unable to be explained or accounted for. "for some inexplicable reason her mind went completely blank"

Implacable /imˈplakəb(ə)l/

Adjective -unable to be placated. "he was an implacable enemy of Ted's" -relentless; unstoppable. "the implacable advance of the enemy" -not placable; not capable of being appeased, significantly changed, or mitigated "an implacable enemy" KIDS DEFINITION -impossible to please, satisfy, or change "implacable enemies"

Rigid /ˈrijid/

Adjective -unable to bend or be forced out of shape; not flexible. "a seat of rigid orange plastic" -(of a person or part of the body) stiff and unmoving, especially as a result of shock or fear. "his face grew rigid with fear" -not able to be changed or adapted. "teachers are being asked to unlearn rigid rules for labeling children" -not adaptable in outlook, belief, or response. "ski instructors have become less rigid about style" -not able to be changed or adapted; not willing to change opinions or behavior; not able to be bent easily "Ms. Nys was very rigid when it came to setting her MC test rules."

Hostile /ˈhästl,ˈhäˌstīl/

Adjective -unfriendly; antagonistic. "a hostile audience" -of or belonging to a military enemy. "hostile aircraft" -opposed. "people are very hostile to the idea" -(of a takeover bid) opposed by the company to be bought. "the brewery fought off a hostile takeover bid last year"

Ironic

Adjective -using or characterized by irony "his mouth curved into an ironic smile" -happening in the opposite way to what is expected, and typically causing wry amusement because of this.

Wry /rī/

Adjective -using or expressing dry, especially mocking, humor. "a wry smile" -(of a person's face or features) twisted into an expression of disgust, disappointment, or annoyance. -bent, twisted, or turned usually abnormally to one side "a wry nose" -made by a deliberate distortion of the facial muscles often to express irony or mockery "a wry smile" ARCHAIC -(of the neck or features) distorted or turned to one side. "a remedy for wry necks"

Intricate

Adjective -very complicated or detailed "an intricate network of canals"

Strung up

Adjective -very nervous, excited, or worried "don't get so strung up about everything."

Bizarre /bəˈzär/

Adjective -very strange or unusual, especially so as to cause interest or amusement. "her bizarre dresses and outrageous hairdos"

Grounded /groundid/

Adjective -well balanced and sensible. "for someone so young, Chris is extremely grounded" -(of a pilot or an aircraft) prohibited or prevented from flying. "you don't taunt a grounded flier, especially after he's had a few beers" INFORMAL -(of a child being punished) not allowed to participate in social or recreational activities. "the problem is, I've got more grounded friends than available friends"

Sus /səs/

Adjective INFORMAL -giving the impression that something is questionable or dishonest; suspicious. "it's a little sus that he seems to know exactly how to play this game" HISTORICAL • BRITISH -relating to or denoting a law under which a person could be arrested on suspicion of having committed an offence. "the sus law" Noun BRITISH suspicion of having committed a crime. "he was picked up on sus" Noun INFORMAL•BRITISH knowledge or awareness of a specified kind. "his lack of business suss" Adjective shrewd and wary. "he is too suss a character to fall into that trap"

Effervescent /ˌefərˈves(ə)nt/

Adjective -(of a liquid) giving off bubbles; fizzy. "an effervescent mixture of cheap wine, fruit flavors, sugar, and carbon dioxide" -vivacious and enthusiastic. "effervescent young people" -having the property of forming bubbles; marked by or producing effervescence "an effervescent beverage" -marked by or expressing an appealingly lively quality "an effervescent person/personality"

Stilted

Adjective -(of a manner of talking or writing) stiff and self-conscious or unnatural -Artificially stiff or formal in manner

Naive /nīˈēv/

Adjective -(of a person or action) showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment. "the rather naive young man had been totally misled" -(of a person) natural and unaffected; innocent. "Andy had a sweet, naive look when he smiled" -of or denoting art produced in a straightforward style that deliberately rejects sophisticated artistic techniques and has a bold directness resembling a child's work, typically in bright colors with little or no perspective. -not previously subjected to experimentation or a particular experimental situation. (Medical) "made the test with naive rats" -not having previously used a particular drug (such as marijuana) (Medical) -not having been exposed previously to an antigen (Medical) "naive T cells" -self-taught -produced by or as if by a self-taught artist "naive murals"

Incredulous /inˈkrejələs/

Adjective -(of a person or their manner) unwilling or unable to believe something. "an incredulous gasp" -unwilling to admit or accept what is offered as true; not credulous; skeptical

Incorrigible /inˈkôrəjəb(ə)l/

Adjective -(of a person or their tendencies) not able to be corrected, improved, or reformed. "he's an incorrigible liar" Noun -an incorrigible person. "all repeat offenders, but none of them real hard-case incorrigibles"

Self-possession /ˌself-pə-ˈze-shən/

Noun -the state or feeling of being calm, confident, and in control of one's feelings; composure. -control of one's emotions or reactions especially when under stress -The ability of a person to have control over what she does and to choose her actions.

Mere

Adjective -that is solely or no more or better than what is specified "questions that cannot be answered by mere mortals" -the smallest or slightest "the merest hint of makeup"

Exemption

NOUN -the process of freeing or state of being free from an obligation or liability imposed on others. -the process of exempting a person from paying taxes on a specified amount of income for themselves and their dependents -an item or amount exempted

Ageing

NOUN -the process of getting old "the external signs of aging" ADJECTIVE -(of a person) growing old; elderly "an aging population" -(of a thing) reaching the end of useful life; obsolescent "the world's aging fleet of oil tankers"

Vintage

NOUN -the year or place in which wine, especially wine of high quality, was produced. -a wine of high quality made from the crop of a single identified district in a good year. -wine -the harvesting of grapes for winemaking -the grapes or wine produced in a particular season -the time that something of quality was produced ADJECTIVE -relating to or denoting wine of high quality -denoting something of high quality, especially something from the past of characteristics of the best period of a person's work

Wrath /raTH/

Noun LITERARY•HUMOROUS -extreme anger (chiefly used for humorous or rhetorical effect). "he hid his pipe for fear of incurring his father's wrath"

Vivacity /viˈvasədē/

Noun -(especially in a woman) the quality of being attractively lively and animated. "he was struck by her vivacity, humor and charm"

Exoticism /iɡˈzädəsizəm/

Noun -the quality of being attractive or striking through being colorful or unusual. "the luxury and exoticism of the new decor" -style or traits considered characteristic of a distant foreign country. "she exudes an aura of exoticism"

Enmity /ˈenmədē/

Noun -the state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something. "decades of enmity between the two countries" -positive, active, and typically mutual hatred or ill will -a very deep unfriendly feeling

Dauntingly

Adjective -tending to overwhelm or intimidate

Leap

-jump or spring a long way, to a great height, or with great force. -move quickly and suddenly -jump across or over -make a sudden rush to do something; act eagerly and suddenly -accept (an opportunity) eagerly -(of a price or figure) increase dramatically -(especially of writing) be conspicuous; stand out Noun -a dramatic increase in price, amount, etc. -a forceful jump or quick movement -a sudden, abrupt change or transition -(in place names) a thing to be leaped over or from.

Licentiousness (licentious)

-lack of moral restraint, especially sexually; a disregard for accepted rules -is being lacking in willpower or moral discipline, or being promiscuous (prone to random sex) or unwilling to conform to accepted rules -disregarding legal restraints especially with regard to sexual relations arrested as a prostitute for licentious sexual intercourse.

Dull

-lacking of interest or excitement -feeling bored or dispirited -lacking brightness, vividness, or sheen. -(of the weather) overcast; gloomy -(of sound) not clear; muffled -(of pain) indistinctly felt; not acute -(of an edge or blade) blunt -(of activity) sluggish or slow-moving -(of a person) slow to understand; stupid

Ommit

-leave out or exclude (someone or something), either intentionally or forgetfully -fail or neglect to do (something); leave undone

Fiction

-literature in the form of prose, especially short stories and novels, that describes imaginary events and people. -invention or fabrication as opposed to fact -a belief or statement that is false, but is often held to be true because it is expedient to do so.

Oblige

-make (someone) legally or morally bound to an action or course of action. -do as (someone) asks or desires in order to help or please them. -be indebted or grateful -bind (someone) by an oath, promise, or contract.

Sobering

-making you feel serious and think carefully -creating a more serious, sensible, or solemn mood

Indebted

-morally, socially, or legally obligated to another; beholden -owing money -owing gratitude for a service or favor

Stiff

-not easily bent or changed in shape; rigid. -sever or strong NOUN: INFORMAL -a dead body -a boring, conventional person VERB: INFORMAL -cheat (someone) out of something, especially money -ignore deliberately; snub

inward looking

-not interested in or taking account of other people or groups

Impudent

-not showing due respect for another person; impertinent

Obsequious

-obedient or attentive to an excessive or servile degree -overly submissive and eager to please

Cross

-oppose or stand in the way of (someone)

Forbearance

-patient self-control; restraint and tolerance -the action of refraining from exercising a legal right, especially enforcing the payment of a debt.

Lodged

-present (a complaint, appeal, claim, etc.) formally to the proper authorities. -make or become firmly fixed or embedded in a particular place -stay or sleep in another person's house, paying money for one's accommodations -provide (someone) with a place to sleep or stay in return for payment

Coherence

-quality of a piece of writing in which all the parts contribute to the development of the central idea, theme, or organizing principle -the quality or state of cohering; systematic or logical connection or consistency -achieved when sentences and ideas are connected and flow together smoothly

Whom

-should be used to refer to the object of a verb or preposition tip: if you can replace the word with "him" or "her", use it.

Who

-should be used to refer to the subject of a sentence tip: if you can replace the word with "he" of "she", use it.

Discourteous

-showing rudeness and a lack or consideration for other people. -not showing proper manners or respect; impolite

Provoke

-stimulate or give rise to (a reaction or emotion, typically a strong or unwelcome one) in someone. -stimulate or incite (someone) to do or feel something, especially by arousing anger in them. -deliberately make (someone) annoyed or angry.

Flounder

-struggle or stagger helplessly or clumsily in water or mud -struggle mentally; show or feel great confusion -be in serious difficulty

well-adjusted

-successfully altered or moved so as to achieve a desired fit, appearance, or result. -(of a person) mentally and emotionally stable -to have made the small changes necessary to feel comfortable in a new situation

Moral Absolutism

-suggests ethical standards apply universally across all cultures -is the ethical belief that there are absolute standards against which moral questions can be judged, and that certain actions are right or wrong, regardless of the context of the act.

Lure

-tempt (a person or an animal) to do something or to go somewhere, especially by offering some form of reward.

Nordic Model

-the combination of social welfare and economic systems adopted by Nordic countries. -It combines features of capitalism, such as a market economy and economic efficiency, with social benefits, such as state pensions and income distribution.

Ellipsis

-the omission of a word or phrase which is grammatically necessary but can be deduced from the context -the omission from speech or writing of a word or words that are superfluous or able to be understood from contextual clues

Rigor (rigour)

-the quality of being extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate -severity or strictness -demanding, difficult, or extreme conditions

Tautology

-the saying of the same thing twice in different words, generally considered to be a fault of style (e.g., they arrived one after the other in succession) -a phrase or expression in which the same thing is said twice in different words. -needless repetition of an idea by using different but equivalent words; a redundancy

Neurotic

Adjective -(in nontechnical use) abnormally sensitive, obsessive, or anxious. "everyone was neurotic about burglars" -mentally or emotionally unstable

Elated

ADJECTIVE -ecstatically happy VERB (Elate) -make (someone) ecstatically happy

Cock-a-hoop

ADJECTIVE -extremely and obviously pleased, especially about a triumph or success. -very cheerful, pleased about one's success

Jubilant

ADJECTIVE -feeling or expressing great happiness and triumph -the idea of a triumphant and celebrating kind of happiness

Ecstatic

ADJECTIVE -feeling or expressing overwhelming happiness or joyful excitement -involving an experience of mystic self-transcendence NOUN -a person subject to mystical experiences

Fanatical

ADJECTIVE -filled with excessive and single-minded zeal -obsessively concerned with something

Exuberant

ADJECTIVE -filled with or characterized by a lively energy and excitement -growing luxuriantly or profusely

Jaunty

ADJECTIVE -having or expressing a lively, cheerful, and self-confident manner

Blithe

ADJECTIVE -showing a casual and cheerful indifference considered to be callous or improper -happy or joyous

Exultant

ADJECTIVE -triumphantly happy -the idea of a triumphant and celebrating kind of happiness

Enormous

ADJECTIVE -very large in size, quantity, or extent.

Subtle (Se-dl)

Adjective -(especially of a change or distinction) so delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe "his language expresses rich and subtle meanings" -(of a mixture or effect) delicately complex and understated "subtle lighting" -making use of clever and indirect methods to achieve something "he tried a more subtle approach" -capable of making fine distinctions "a subtle mind" -arranged in an ingenious and elaborate way -not easily understood -having or marked by keen insight and ability to penetrate deeply and thoroughly "a subtle scholar" -highly skillful "a subtle craftsman"

Slovenly /ˈsləvənlē/

Adjective -(especially of a person or their appearance) messy and dirty. "he was upbraided for his slovenly appearance" -(especially of a person or action) careless; excessively casual. "slovenly speech" -is untidy especially in personal appearance -lazily slipshod "slovenly in thought"

Convoluted (känve,looded)

Adjective -(especially of an argument, story, or sentence) extremely complex and difficult to follow.

Radical /ˈradək(ə)l/

Adjective -(especially of change or action) relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; far-reaching or thorough. "a radical overhaul of the existing regulatory framework" -forming an inherent or fundamental part of the nature of someone or something. "the assumption of radical differences between the mental attributes of literate and nonliterate peoples" -(of surgery or medical treatment) thorough and intended to be completely curative. -advocating or based on thorough or complete political or social change; representing or supporting an extreme or progressive section of a political party. -characterized by independence of or departure from tradition; innovative or unorthodox. "the daring, avant-garde spirit of the music was too radical for the conservative audience" LINGUISTICS -denoting or relating to the roots of a word. MUSIC -belonging to the root of a chord. MATHEMATICS -of the root of a number or quantity. BOTANY -of, or springing direct from, the root or stem base of a plant. INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -very good; excellent. "Okay, then. Seven o'clock. Radical!" Noun -a person who advocates thorough or complete political or social reform; a member of a political party or part of a party pursuing such aims. CHEMISTRY -a group of atoms behaving as a unit in a number of compounds. -the root or base form of a word. -any of the basic set of 214 Chinese characters constituting semantically or functionally significant elements in the composition of other characters and used as a means of classifying characters in dictionaries. MATHEMATICS -a quantity forming or expressed as the root of another. -a radical sign.

Scarce /skers/

Adjective -(especially of food, money, or some other resource) insufficient for the demand. "as raw materials became scarce, synthetics were developed" -occurring in small numbers or quantities; rare. "the freshwater shrimp becomes scarce in soft water" -deficient in quantity or number compared with the demand; not plentiful or abundant -intentionally absent "made himself scarce at inspection time"

Succinct /sə(k)ˈsiNG(k)t/

Adjective -(especially of something written or spoken) briefly and clearly expressed. "use short, succinct sentences"

Coy /koi/

Adjective -(especially with reference to a woman) making a pretense of shyness or modesty that is intended to be alluring. "she treated him to a coy smile of invitation" -reluctant to give details, especially about something regarded as sensitive. "he is coy about his age" DATED -quiet and reserved; shy. -marked by cute, coquettish, or artful playfulness using coy tricks to attract attention -showing reluctance to make a definite commitment "a coy response"

Coy /koi/

Adjective -(especially with reference to a woman) making a pretense of shyness or modesty that is intended to be alluring. "she treated him to a coy smile of invitation" -reluctant to give details, especially about something regarded as sensitive. "he is coy about his age" DATED quiet and reserved; shy. -marked by cute, coquettish, or artful playfulness "using coy tricks to attract attention" -shrinking from contact or familiarity "'Tis but a kiss I beg, Why art thou coy?" -showing reluctance to make a definite commitment "a coy response"

Acute

Adjective -(of a bad, or difficult, or unwelcome situation or phenomenon) present or experienced to a severe of intense degree -(of a disease or symptoms) of a short duration but typically severe -having or showing a perceptive understandings or insight; shrewd "an acute awareness of changing fashions" -(of a physical sense or faculty) highly developed; keen "an acute sense of smell"

Incendiary /inˈsendēˌerē/

Adjective -(of a device or attack) designed to cause fires. "incendiary grenades" -tending to stir up conflict. "incendiary rhetoric" -very exciting. "an incendiary live performer" Noun -an incendiary bomb or device. -a person who starts fires, especially in a military context. -a person who stirs up conflict.

Blunt /blənt/

Adjective -(of a knife, pencil, etc.) having a worn-down edge or point; not sharp. "a blunt knife" -having an edge or point that is not sharp "scissors with blunt ends" -having a flat or rounded end. "the blunt tip of the leaf" -(of a person or remark) uncompromisingly forthright. "a blunt statement of fact" -being straight to the point; direct "to be perfectly blunt, I don't think he can do it." -abrupt in speech or manner "she tends to be blunt." -slow or deficient in feeling; insensitive "showing how blunt the eyes and ears of writers generally are" Verb -make or become less sharp. "wood can blunt your axe" -weaken or reduce the force of (something). "their determination had been blunted" Noun INFORMAL -a hollowed-out cigar filled with marijuana.

Flabby

Adjective -(of a part of a person's body) soft, loose, and fleshy "this exercise helps to flatten a flabby stomach" -(of a person) having soft loose flesh -not tightly controlled, powerful, or effective "the quartet playing was uncommitted and flabby" -lacking firmness or stiffness

Resilient /rəˈzilyənt/

Adjective -(of a person or animal) able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions. "babies are generally far more resilient than new parents realize" -(of a substance or object) able to recoil or spring back into shape after bending, stretching, or being compressed. "a shoe with resilient cushioning"

Placid /ˈplasəd/

Adjective -(of a person or animal) not easily upset or excited. "this horse has a placid nature" -(especially of a place or stretch of water) calm and peaceful, with little movement or activity. "the placid waters of a small lake" -serenely free of interruption or disturbance "placid skies" KIDS DEFINITION (Adjective) -calm and peaceful "a placid face"

Scraggly /ˈskraɡ(ə)lē/

Adjective -(of a person or animal) thin and bony. "scraggy mongrels" -ragged, thin, or untidy in form or appearance. "a man with a scraggly beard" -irregular in form or growth "scraggly hills" -growing in a way that is not neat and even : having a ragged appearance

Nonchalant /ˌnänSHəˈlänt/

Adjective -(of a person or manner) feeling or appearing casually calm and relaxed; not displaying anxiety, interest, or enthusiasm. "she gave a nonchalant shrug"

Perverse /pərˈvərs/

Adjective -(of a person or their actions) showing a deliberate and obstinate desire to behave in a way that is unreasonable or unacceptable, often in spite of the consequences. "Kate's perverse decision not to cooperate" -contrary to the accepted or expected standard or practice. "in two general elections the outcome was quite perverse" LAW -(of a verdict) against the weight of evidence or the direction of the judge on a point of law. -sexually perverted.

Uncouth /ˌənˈko͞oTH/

Adjective -(of a person or their appearance or behavior) lacking good manners, refinement, or grace. "he is unwashed, uncouth, and drunk most of the time" -(especially of art or language) lacking sophistication or delicacy. "uncouth sketches of peasants" ARCHAIC -(of a place) uncomfortable, especially because of remoteness or poor conditions. -awkward and uncultivated in appearance, manner, or behavior; rude -lacking in polish and grace; rugged "uncouth verse" -strange or clumsy in shape or appearance; outlandish ARCHAIC -not known or not familiar to one; seldom experienced; uncommon, rare OBSOLETE -mysterious, uncanny KIDS DEFINITION -impolite in conduct or speech; crude "uncouth manners"

Flamboyant /ˌflamˈboi(y)ənt/

Adjective -(of a person or their behavior) tending to attract attention because of their exuberance, confidence, and stylishness. "a flamboyant display of aerobatics" -(especially of clothing) noticeable because brightly colored, highly patterned, or unusual in style. "a flamboyant bow tie" ARCHITECTURE -of or denoting a style of French Gothic architecture marked by wavy flame-like tracery and ornate decoration. Noun -another term for royal poinciana

Forthright

Adjective -(of a person or their manner or speech) direct and outspoken; straightforward and honest "his most forthright attack yet on the reforms" -proceeding directly forward Adverb -direct forward -immediately

Stern /stərn/

Adjective -(of a person or their manner) serious and unrelenting, especially in the assertion of authority and exercise of discipline. "a smile transformed his stern face" -(of an act or statement) strict and severe; using extreme measures or terms. "stern measures to restrict growth of traffic" -(of competition or opposition) putting someone or something under extreme pressure. "the past year has been a stern test of the ability of local industry" -having a definite hardness or severity of nature or manner; austere -expressive of severe displeasure; harsh -forbidding or gloomy in appearance Noun -the rearmost part of a ship or boat. "he stood at the stern of the yacht" HUMOROUS -a person's bottom. "my stern can't take too much sun"

Incorrigible /inˈkôrəjəb(ə)l/

Adjective -(of a person or their tendencies) not able to be corrected, improved, or reformed. "he's an incorrigible liar" Noun -an incorrigible person. "all repeat offenders, but none of them real hard-case incorrigibles"

Eponymous /əˈpänəməs/

Adjective -(of a person) giving their name to something. "the eponymous hero of the novel" -(of a thing) named after a particular person. "Roseanne's eponymous hit TV series"

Rotund /rōˈtənd/

Adjective -(of a person) plump; chubby "her brother was slim where she was rotund" -round or spherical; rounded "huge stoves held great rotund cauldrons" -(of speech or literary style) indulging in grandiloquent expression. -marked by fullness of sound or cadence; orotund, sonorous "a master of rotund diction"

Humility

Noun -a modest or low view of one's own importance; humbleness "he needs the humility to accept that their way may be better"

Latent /ˈlātnt/

Adjective -(of a quality or state) existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden or concealed. "discovering her latent talent for diplomacy" BIOLOGY -(of a bud, resting stage, etc.) lying dormant or hidden until circumstances are suitable for development or manifestation. "axillary buds or eyes in the leaf axils are latent growth buds" -(of a disease) in which the usual symptoms are not yet manifest. (Pathology) "diabetes may be latent for some years before diagnosis" PHYSIOLOGY -(of a microorganism, especially a virus) present in the body without causing disease, but capable of doing so at a later stage, or when transmitted to another body. -present or capable of living or developing in a host without producing visible symptoms of disease. (Medical) "a latent virus" -not consciously expressed (Medical) "latent anxiety" -relating to or being the latent content of a dream or thought (Medical) -existing in hidden or dormant form but usually capable of being brought to light (Legal) — compare "patent" Noun -a fingerprint (as at the scene of a crime) that is scarcely visible but can be developed for study — called also "latent fingerprint, latent print"

Porous /ˈpôrəs/

Adjective -(of a rock or other material) having minute spaces or holes through which liquid or air may pass. "layers of porous limestones" -not retentive or secure. "he ran through a porous defense to score easily"

Circuitous /sərˈkyo͞oədəs/

Adjective -(of a route or journey) longer than the most direct way. "the canal followed a circuitous route"

Dire

Adjective -(of a situation or event) extremely serious or urgent -(of a warning or threat) presaging disaster

Profound /prəˈfound/

Adjective -(of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense. "profound feelings of disquiet" -(of a disease or disability) very severe; deep-seated. "a case of profound liver failure" -(of a person or statement) having or showing great knowledge or insight. "a profound philosopher" -(of a subject or thought) demanding deep study or thought. "expressing profound truths in simple language" -ARCHAIC at, from, or extending to a great depth; very deep. "he opened the door with a profound bow" LITERARY Noun -the vast depth of the ocean or of the mind. "nor billowy surge disturbs the vast profound"

Volatile /ˈvälədl/

Adjective -(of a substance) easily evaporated at normal temperatures. "volatile solvents such as petroleum ether, hexane, and benzene" -liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse. "the political situation was becoming more volatile" -(of a person) liable to display rapid changes of emotion. "a passionate, volatile young man" -(of a computer's memory) retaining data only as long as there is a power supply connected. Noun -a volatile substance.

Untrodden /ˌənˈträdn/

Adjective -(of a surface) not having been walked on. "untrodden snow"

Proverbial

Adjective -(of a word or phrase) referred to in a proverb or idiom. "I'm going to stick out like the proverbial sore thumb" -well known, especially so as to be stereotypical. "the Welsh people, whose hospitality is proverbial"

Monosyllabic /ˌmänəsəˈlabik/

Adjective -(of a word or utterance) consisting of one syllable. -(of a person) using brief words to signify reluctance to engage in conversation. "the nearer they came to Rome, the more quiet and monosyllabic Paul seemed to become" -conspicuously brief in answering or commenting; terse -very brief; terse or blunt "a monosyllabic reply."

Rarefied /ˈrerəˌfīd/

Adjective -(of air, especially that at high altitudes) of lower pressure than usual; thin. "every ounce carried counts triple when you're trudging uphill in rarefied air" -distant from the lives and concerns of ordinary people. "debates about the nature of knowledge can seem very rarefied" -being less dense -of, relating to, or interesting to a select group; esoteric -very high -understood by only a small group of people; only for people who know about a particular thing -not having much oxygen because of being high up in the atmosphere

Expedient /ikˈspēdēənt/

Adjective -(of an action) convenient and practical although possibly improper or immoral. "either side could break the agreement if it were expedient to do so" -(of an action) suitable or appropriate. "holding a public inquiry into the scheme was not expedient" -suitable for achieving a particular end in a given circumstance -characterized by concern with what is opportune (especially) governed by self-interest KIDS DEFINITION -providing a quick and easy way to accomplish something "an expedient solution" Noun -a means of attaining an end, especially one that is convenient but considered improper or immoral. "the current policy is a political expedient" -something done or used to achieve a particular end usually quickly or temporarily; an expedient action or solution

Paltry /ˈpôltrē/

Adjective -(of an amount) small or meager. "she would earn a paltry $33 more each month" -petty; trivial. "naval glory struck him as paltry" -inferior, trashy "built paltry houses unfit for occupancy" -mean, despicable "a paltry trick" -very small or too small in amount -having little meaning, importance, or worth

Dormant /ˈdôrmənt/

Adjective -(of an animal) having normal physical functions suspended or slowed down for a period of time; in or as if in a deep sleep. "dormant butterflies" -(of a plant or bud) alive but not actively growing. -(of a volcano) temporarily inactive. -(of a disease) causing no symptoms but not cured and liable to recur. "the disease may remain dormant and undetected until transmitted to other fish" -temporarily inactive or inoperative. "that dormant urge to write fiction has re-emerged" -asleep, inactive "dormant creatures" HERALDRY -(of an animal) depicted lying with its head on its paws. KIDS DEFINITION -not active for the time being "the volcano is dormant."

Cogent

Adjective -(of an argument or case) clear, logical, and convincing. "they put forward cogent arguments for British membership"

Preconceived /ˌprēkənˈsēvd/

Adjective -(of an idea or opinion) formed before having the evidence for its truth or usefulness. "the same set of facts can be tailored to fit any preconceived belief" -(of an idea or an opinion) formed too early, especially without enough thought or knowledge -to form (an opinion) prior to actual knowledge or experience "preconceived notions"

Capital

Adjective -(of an offense or charge) liable to the death penalty "murder was a capital crime" -(of a letter of the alphabet) large in size and of the form used to begin sentences and names -excellent "he's really a capital fellow" Exclamation -used to express approval, satisfaction, or delight "that's splendid! capital!"

Abject /ˈabˌjekt,abˈjekt/

Adjective -(of something bad) experienced or present to the maximum degree. "his letter plunged her into abject misery" -(of a person or their behavior) completely without pride or dignity; self-abasing. "an abject apology" -sunk to or existing in a low state or condition; very bad or severe "living in abject poverty" -expressing or offered in a humble and often ingratiating spirit "abject flattery" -low in spirit, strength, or hope an abject coward

Incessant /inˈses(ə)nt/

Adjective -(of something regarded as unpleasant) continuing without pause or interruption. "the incessant beat of the music"

Laudatory

Adjective -(of speech or writing) expressing praise and commendation.

Menial /ˈmēnēəl/

Adjective -(of work) not requiring much skill and lacking prestige. "menial factory jobs" DATED -(of a servant) domestic. Noun -a person with a menial job. DATED -a domestic servant.

Errant /ˈerənt/

Adjective -FORMAL•HUMOROUS erring or straying from the proper course or standards. "he could never forgive his daughter's errant ZOOLOGY -(of a polychaete worm) of a predatory kind that moves about actively and is not confined to a tube or burrow. ARCHAIC•LITERARY -traveling in search of adventure. "that same lady errant" -behaving wrongly "an errant child" -straying outside the proper path or bounds an errant calf -moving about aimlessly or irregularly "an errant breeze" -fallible -traveling or given to traveling "an errant knight"

Full-bodied

Adjective -Rich flavor that can feel heavy in the mouth. Often used to describe wines. -rich and satisfying in flavor or sound

Lethargic

Adjective -acting in an indifferent or slow, sluggish manner -affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic -of, relating to, or characterized by laziness or lack of energy

Impetuous /imˈpeCH(o͞o)əs/

Adjective -acting or done quickly and without thought or care. "her friend was headstrong and impetuous" -moving forcefully or rapidly. "an impetuous but controlled flow of water" -marked by force and violence of movement or action "an impetuous wind" -acting or done quickly and without thought -controlled by emotion rather than thought -impulsive

Impetuous /imˈpeCH(o͞o)əs/

Adjective -acting or done quickly and without thought or care. "her friend was headstrong and impetuous" -moving forcefully or rapidly. "an impetuous but controlled flow of water" -marked by impulsive vehemence or passion "an impetuous temperament" -marked by force and violence of movement or action "an impetuous wind" -is often impulsive behavior

Mealy-mouthed

Adjective -afraid to speak frankly or straightforwardly "mealy-mouthed excuses"

Unerring /ˌənˈəriNG,ˌənˈeriNG/

Adjective -always right or accurate. "an unerring sense of direction"

Furtive /ˈfərdiv/

Adjective -attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive. "they spent a furtive day together" -suggestive of guilty nervousness. "the look in his eyes became furtive" -done in a quiet and secretive way to avoid being noticed; surreptitious "a furtive glance" -expressive of stealth; sly "had a furtive look about him" -obtained underhandedly; stolen "furtive gains" -done in a quiet and secret way to avoid being noticed

Resplendent /rəˈsplendənt/

Adjective -attractive and impressive through being richly colorful or sumptuous. "she was resplendent in a sea-green dress" -shining brilliantly; characterized by a glowing splendor "meadows resplendent with wildflowers" -very bright and attractive

Grumpy /ˈɡrəmpē/

Adjective -bad-tempered and irritable. "his performance as the grumpy gateman" -moodily cross; surly KIDS DEFINITION -grouchy, cross

Scant

Adjective -barely sufficient or adequate "companies with scant regard for the safety of future generations" -barely amounting to a specified number or quantity "she weighed a scant two pounds" Verb -provide grudgingly or in insufficient amounts "he does not scant his attention to the later writings" -deal with inadequately; neglect "the press regularly scants a host of issues relating to safety and health"

Coquettish /kōˈkediSH/

Adjective -behaving in such a way as to suggest a playful sexual attraction; flirtatious. "a coquettish grin" -trying to attract attention by pretending to be sexually interested in someone, in a pleasant but not serious way

Cynical /ˈsinək(ə)l/

Adjective -believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity. "her cynical attitude" -doubtful as to whether something will happen or whether it is worthwhile. "most residents are cynical about efforts to clean mobsters out of their city" -contemptuous; mocking. "he gave a cynical laugh" -concerned only with one's own interests and typically disregarding accepted or appropriate standards in order to achieve them. "a cynical manipulation of public opinion" -contemptuously distrustful of human nature and motives "those cynical men who say that democracy cannot be honest and efficient."

Noble /ˈnōbəl/

Adjective -belonging to a hereditary class with high social or political status; aristocratic. "the Duchess of Kent and other noble ladies" -having or showing fine personal qualities or high moral principles and ideals. "the promotion of human rights was a noble aspiration" -of imposing or magnificent size or appearance. "entering the building with its noble arches and massive granite columns" -of excellent or superior quality. "Chardonnay is the noble grape from which some of the finest white wines are produced" -having, showing, or coming from personal qualities that people admire (such as honesty, generosity, courage, etc.) "he was a man of noble character." -of, relating to, or belonging to the highest social class : of, relating to, or belonging to the nobility "she married a man of noble birth/rank."

Ablaze

Adjective -burning fiercely "his clothes were ablaze" -very brightly colored or lighted "New England is ablaze with color in autumn" -filled with anger or another strong emotion "his eyes were ablaze with excitement"

Serene

Adjective -calm, peaceful, and untroubled; tranquil. "her eyes were closed and she looked very serene" -(in a title) used as a term of respect for members of some European royal families. "His Serene Highness" Noun -an expanse of clear sky or calm sea. "not a cloud obscured the deep serene"

Viable /ˈvīəb(ə)l/

Adjective -capable of working successfully; feasible. "the proposed investment was economically viable" BOTANY -(of a seed or spore) able to germinate. "most clones can produce thousands of viable seeds" BIOLOGY -(of a plant, animal, or cell) capable of surviving or living successfully, especially under particular environmental conditions. "the largest and most viable population of this endangered vetch" MEDICINE -(of a fetus or unborn child) able to live after birth. "what if the fetus were viable?" -capable of living "a viable skin graft" -(of a fetus) having attained such form and development of organs as to be normally capable of surviving outside the uterus "a 26-week old viable fetus" -capable of growing or developing "viable seeds" -capable of working, functioning, or developing adequately "viable alternatives" -capable of existence and development as an independent unit "the colony is now a viable state." -having a reasonable chance of succeeding "a viable candidate" -financially sustainable "a viable enterprise"

Intrusive

Adjective -causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome or uninvited. "that was an intrusive question"

Ghastly /ˈɡas(t)lē/

Adjective -causing great horror or fear; frightful or macabre. "she was overcome with horror at the ghastly spectacle" -extremely unwell. "he always felt ghastly first thing in the morning" -deathly white or pallid. "a ghastly pallor" INFORMAL -very objectionable, bad, or unpleasant. "we had to wear ghastly old-fashioned dresses" -terrifyingly horrible to the senses; frightening "a ghastly crime" -intensely unpleasant, disagreeable, or objectionable "such a life seems ghastly in its emptiness and sterility" -resembling a ghost OBSOLETE -filled with fear -very great "a ghastly mistake" -very shocking or horrible -very bad; terrible; awful

Disruptive /disˈrəptiv/

Adjective -causing or tending to cause disruption. "the hours of work are disruptive to home life" -innovative or groundbreaking. "breaking a disruptive technology into the market is never easy" -is disrupting or tending to disrupt some process, activity, condition, etc.

Gruesome /ˈɡro͞osəm/

Adjective -causing repulsion or horror; grisly. "a most gruesome murder" INFORMAL -extremely unpleasant. "gruesome working hours"

Fickle /ˈfik(ə)l/

Adjective -changing frequently, especially as regards one's loyalties, interests, or affection. "Web patrons are a notoriously fickle lot, bouncing from one site to another on a whim"

Fickle /ˈfik(ə)l/

Adjective -changing frequently, especially as regards one's loyalties, interests, or affection. "Web patrons are a notoriously fickle lot, bouncing from one site to another on a whim" -marked by lack of steadfastness, constancy, or stability; given to erratic changeableness KIDS DEFINITION -changing often; not reliable "fickle friends" "fickle weather" -likely to change your opinion or your feelings suddenly and without a good reason

Bironic /bīˈränik/

Adjective -characteristic of Lord Byron or his poetry. -alluringly dark, mysterious, and moody (typically used of a man).

Roguish /ˈrōɡiSH/

Adjective -characteristic of a dishonest or unprincipled person. "he led a roguish and uncertain existence" -playfully mischievous, especially in a way that is sexually attractive. "he gave her a roguish smile" -tending to or exhibiting reckless playfulness

Turbulent /ˈtərbyələnt/

Adjective -characterized by conflict, disorder, or confusion; not controlled or calm. "the country's turbulent 20-year history" -(of air or water) moving unsteadily or violently. "the turbulent sea"

Uproarious /ˌəpˈrôrēəs/

Adjective -characterized by or provoking loud noise or uproar. "an uproarious party" -provoking loud laughter; very funny. "uproarious humor" -very noisy and full -extremely funny "an uproarious comedy"

Decadent /ˈdekəd(ə)nt/

Adjective -characterized by or reflecting a state of moral or cultural decline. "a decaying, decadent Britain" -(of a person or group) has low moral standard -disapproving; having low morals and a great love of pleasure, money, fame, etc. "The book condemns some of society's wealthiest members as decadent fools." -attractive to people of low morals who are only interested in pleasure "the city's decadent nightclubs" -extremely pleasing "a wealthy and decadent lifestyle" "the restaurant's decadent desserts" -marked by decay or decline "an increasingly decadent society." -luxuriously self-indulgent. "a decadent soak in a scented bath" Noun -a person who is luxuriously self-indulgent. "for half a million dollars, he offers rich decadents the chance to lead a deadly safari" -a member of a group of late-19th-century French and English poets associated with the Aesthetic Movement.

Ascetic /əˈsedik/

Adjective -characterized by or suggesting the practice of severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons. "an ascetic life of prayer, fasting, and manual labor" -practicing strict self-denial as a measure of personal and especially spiritual discipline "an ascetic monk" -austere in appearance, manner, or attitude Noun -a person who practices severe self-discipline and abstention. -one who leads a life of self-denial and contemplation; absent of luxury

Recursive /rəˈkərsiv/

Adjective -characterized by recurrence or repetition. MATHEMATICS•LINGUISTICS -relating to or involving the repeated application of a rule, definition, or procedure to successive results. "this restriction ensures that the grammar is recursive" COMPUTING -relating to or involving a program or routine of which a part requires the application of the whole, so that its explicit interpretation requires in general many successive executions. "a recursive subroutine"

Languorous /ˈlaNG(ɡ)(ə)rəs/

Adjective -characterized by tiredness or inactivity, especially of a pleasurable kind. "summer has a slow, languorous feel to it here" -characterized by an oppressive stillness. "the atmosphere is languorous and sultry"

Pent-up /pentˈəp/

Adjective -closely confined or held back. "pent-up frustrations" -held or kept inside : not released "the children were full of pent-up energy after the long car ride."

Heavy-handed /ˈˌhevē ˈˌhandəd/

Adjective -clumsy or insensitive. "this heavy-handed prose is merely tiresome" -oppressive, harsh

Malignant /məˈliɡnənt/

Adjective -malevolent. "in the hands of malignant fate" -(of a disease) very virulent or infectious. -(of a tumor) tending to invade normal tissue or to recur after removal; cancerous.

Subsequent /ˈsəbsəkwənt/

Adjective -coming after something in time; following. "the theory was developed subsequent to the earthquake of 1906" -following in time, order, or place -occurring or coming later or after GEOLOGY -(of a stream or valley) having a direction or character determined by the resistance to erosion of the underlying rock, and typically following the strike of the strata.

Fulsome

Adjective -complimentary or flattering to an excessive degree -of a large size or quantity; generous or abundant -nowadays has a tone suggesting excessive or insincerely extravagant praise

Bedridden /ˈbedˌridn/

Adjective -confined to bed by sickness or old age.

Chivalrous /ˈSHivəlrəs/

Adjective -courteous and gallant, especially toward women (typically used of a man or his behavior). "shall I be chivalrous and offer you my coat?" -relating to the historical notion of chivalry. "the concept of chivalrous combat" -behaving in an honorable or polite way especially toward women -showing respect and politeness especially toward women

Voluptuous /vəˈləp(t)SH(o͞o)əs/

Adjective -curvaceous and sexually attractive (typically used of a woman). -relating to or characterized by luxury or sensual pleasure. "long curtains in voluptuous crimson velvet" -suggesting sensual pleasure by fullness and beauty of form "voluptuous nudes" -full of delight or pleasure to the senses; conducive to or arising from sensuous or sensual gratification; luxurious "a voluptuous dance" -given to or spent in enjoyment of luxury, pleasure, or sensual gratifications "a long and voluptuous holiday" -very attractive because of having large hips and breasts -giving pleasure to the senses

Voluptuous /vəˈləp(t)SH(o͞o)əs/

Adjective -curvaceous and sexually attractive (typically used of a woman). -relating to or characterized by luxury or sensual pleasure. "long curtains in voluptuous crimson velvet" -suggesting sensual pleasure by fullness and beauty of form "voluptuous nudes" -full of delight or pleasure to the senses; conducive to or arising from sensuous or sensual gratification; luxurious "a voluptuous dance" -given to or spent in enjoyment of luxury, pleasure, or sensual gratifications "a long and voluptuous holiday"

Masochistic /ˌmasəˈkistik/

Adjective -deriving sexual gratification from one's own pain or humiliation. "masochistic sexual fantasies" -(in general use) enjoying an activity that appears to be painful or tedious. "he seems to take a masochistic delight in confronting uncomfortable truths"

Elusive /ēˈlo͞osiv/

Adjective -difficult to find, catch, or achieve. "success will become ever more elusive" -difficult to remember or recall. "the elusive thought he had had moments before"

Enigmatic /ˌenəɡˈmadik/

Adjective -difficult to interpret or understand; mysterious. "he took the money with an enigmatic smile" -someone or something that is ____________ is mysterious and difficult to understand

Risk-averse

Adjective -disinclined or reluctant to take risks. "risk-averse investors" -is a term that you may hear when talking about investment strategies and referring to the level of risk you are willing to accept. -having a low tolerance for risk -a dislike of uncertainty -reluctant to take any kind of risk.

Fawning /ˈfôniNG/

Adjective -displaying exaggerated flattery or affection; obsequious. "fawning adoration" -seeking or used to seek approval or favor by means of flattery

Deliberate /dəˈlib(ə)rət/

Adjective -done consciously and intentionally. "a deliberate attempt to provoke conflict" -fully considered; not impulsive. "a deliberate decision" -done or acting in a careful and unhurried way. "a careful and deliberate worker" Verb -engage in long and careful consideration. "she deliberated over the menu" -consider (a question) carefully. "jurors deliberated the fate of those charged"

Hasty

Adjective -done or acting with excessive speed or urgency; hurried "a hasty attempt to defuse the situation" -acting with with excessive speed or insufficient consideration "don't be too hasty in criticizing a colleague" -(archaic) quick-tempered

Pliable /ˈplīəb(ə)l/

Adjective -easily bent; flexible. "quality leather is pliable and will not crack" -easily influenced. "pliable teenage minds"

Lofty /ˈlȯf-tē/

Adjective -elevated in character and spirit; noble "lofty ideals" -elevated in status; superior "the less lofty customers of the bar" -having a haughty overbearing manner; supercilious "she showed a lofty disregard for their objections." -rising to a great height; impressively high "lofty mountains" -remote; esoteric "basic precepts are not lofty abstractions far removed from matters of daily living." — D. D. Eisenhower -having full-bodied, firm, and resilient textile fibers "lofty flannel" -rising to a great height : very tall and impressive -very high and good : deserving to be admired -showing the insulting attitude of people who think that they are better, smarter, or more important than other people

Incandescent /ˌinkənˈdes(ə)nt/

Adjective -emitting light as a result of being heated. "plumes of incandescent liquid rock" -(of an electric light) containing a filament which glows white-hot when heated by a current passed through it. "an incandescent lamp" -full of strong emotion; passionate. "Mravinsky's incandescent performance of Siegfried's Funeral March" -extremely angry. "she was incandescent at the way the IRS acted" -white, glowing, or luminous with intense heat -strikingly bright, radiant, or clear -marked by brilliance especially of expression "incandescent wit" -characterized by glowing zeal; ardent "incandescent affection" -of, relating to, or being light produced by incandescence -producing light by incandescence -white or glowing because of great heat -producing bright light when heated -very impressive, successful, or intelligent

Hedonistic /ˌhēdnˈistik,ˌhedəˈnistik/

Adjective -engaged in the pursuit of pleasure; sensually self-indulgent. "a hedonistic existence of drink, drugs, and parties" -pleasure seeking

Ardent /ˈärdnt/

Adjective -enthusiastic or passionate. "an ardent baseball fan" ARCHAIC•LITERARY -burning; glowing. "the ardent flames"

Tantamount /ˈtan(t)əˌmount/

Adjective -equivalent in seriousness to; virtually the same as. "the resignations were tantamount to an admission of guilt"

Disparate /ˈdispərət,dəˈsperət/

Adjective -essentially different in kind; not allowing comparison. "they inhabit disparate worlds of thought" -containing elements very different from one another. "a culturally disparate country" -markedly distinct in quality or character -different from each other Noun ARCHAIC -things so unlike that there is no basis for comparison.

Superb /so͞oˈpərb/

Adjective -excellent. "a superb performance" -impressively splendid. "a superb Egyptian statue of Osiris" -marked to the highest degree by grandeur, excellence, brilliance, or competence

Outstanding

Adjective -exceptionally good -clearly noticeable -remaining to be paid, done, or dealt with

Adulatory

Adjective -excessively praising or admiring

Superficial /ˌso͞opərˈfiSHəl/

Adjective -existing or occurring at or on the surface. "the building suffered only superficial damage" -on or near the surface -situated or occurring on the skin or immediately beneath it. "the superficial muscle groups" -appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely. "the resemblance between the breeds is superficial" -not thorough, deep, or complete; cursory. "he had only the most superficial knowledge of foreign countries" -not having or showing any depth of character or understanding. "perhaps I was a superficial person"

Vicarious /vəˈkerēəs,vīˈkerēəs/

Adjective -experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person. "I could glean vicarious pleasure from the struggles of my imaginary film friends" -acting or done for another. "a vicarious atonement" PHYSIOLOGY -of or pertaining to the performance by one organ of the functions normally discharged by another. -experienced or realized through imaginative or sympathetic participation in the experience of another "a vicarious thrill" -performed or suffered by one person as a substitute for another or to the benefit or advantage of another; substitutionary "a vicarious sacrifice" -occurring in an unexpected or abnormal part of the body instead of the usual one "vicarious menstruation manifested by bleeding from the nose"

Vicarious /vəˈkerēəs,vīˈkerēəs/

Adjective -experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person. "I could glean vicarious pleasure from the struggles of my imaginary film friends" -acting or done for another. "a vicarious atonement" PHYSIOLOGY -of or pertaining to the performance by one organ of the functions normally discharged by another. -experienced or realized through imaginative or sympathetic participation in the experience of another "a vicarious thrill" -performed or suffered by one person as a substitute for another or to the benefit or advantage of another; substitutionary "a vicarious sacrifice" -occurring in an unexpected or abnormal part of the body instead of the usual one "vicarious menstruation manifested by bleeding from the nose" -sharing in someone else's experiences through the use of imagination or sympathetic feelings "she got vicarious enjoyment from her sister's travels."

Uninhibited /ˌənənˈhibədəd/

Adjective -expressing one's feelings or thoughts unselfconsciously and without restraint. "fits of uninhibited laughter"

Rueful

Adjective -expressing sorrow or regret, especially when in a slightly humorous way.

Ethereal /əˈTHirēəl/

Adjective -extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world. "her ethereal beauty" -heavenly or spiritual. "ethereal, otherworldly visions" CHEMISTRY -(of a solution) having diethyl ether as a solvent. "sodium is dissolved in ethereal solutions of aromatic ketones"

Obnoxious /əbˈnäkSHəs/

Adjective -extremely unpleasant. "obnoxious odors"

Sizable

Adjective -fairly large "a sizable proportion of the population"

Contrite /kənˈtrīt,ˈkäntrīt/

Adjective -feeling or expressing remorse or penitence; affected by guilt. "a broken and a contrite heart"

Aghast /əˈɡast/

Adjective -filled with horror or shock. "when the news came out they were aghast" -struck with terror, amazement, or horror : shocked and upset

Eloquent /ˈeləkwənt/

Adjective -fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing. "an eloquent speech" -clearly expressing or indicating something. "the touches of fatherliness are eloquent of the real man" -able to use language and express your opinions well, especially when you are speaking in public -giving a strong, clear message

Jocular /ˈjäkyələr/

Adjective -fond of or characterized by joking; humorous or playful. "she sounded in a jocular mood" -said or done as a joke; characterized by jesting; playful "jocular remarks" -liking to tell jokes -said or done as a joke

Perilous /ˈperələs/

Adjective -full of danger or risk. "a perilous journey south" -exposed to imminent risk of disaster or ruin. "the economy is in a perilous state" -full of or involving peril "a perilous journey"

Coveted /ˈkəvədəd/

Adjective -greatly desired or envied. "I gave up a coveted job, that of editor-in-chief"

Appalled

Adjective -greatly dismayed or horrified "allison looked at me, appalled" Verb -greatly dismay or horrify "bankers are appalled at the economic incompetence of some officials"

Straggly

Adjective -growing or spreading in an irregular, untidy way -messy

Nightly /ˈnītlē/

Adjective -happening or done every night. "his prime-time, nightly TV talk show" -happening, done, or existing in the night. "badgers in gardens on their regular nightly wanderings" Adverb -every night. "the hotel features live music nightly"

Whiny /ˈ(h)wīnē/

Adjective -having a drawn-out, high-pitched, unpleasant sound. "he speaks in a whiny, childish voice" -having a complaining tone. "without wanting to sound whiny, it's quite hard work"

Fuzzy /ˈfəzē/

Adjective -having a frizzy, fluffy, or frayed texture or appearance. "fuzzy fake-fur throw pillows" -difficult to perceive clearly or understand and explain precisely; indistinct or vague. "the picture is very fuzzy" -(of a person or the mind) unable to think clearly; confused. "my mind felt fuzzy" -(of popular music or electric instruments) having or producing a distorted buzzing tone; fuzzed. "swathes of layered, fuzzy guitar"

Pernicious /pərˈniSHəs/

Adjective -having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way. "the pernicious influences of the mass media" -is causing great harm or damage often in a way that is not easily seen or noticed "more pernicious still has been the acceptance of the author's controversial ideas by the general public."

Averse /əˈvərs/

Adjective -having a strong dislike of or opposition to something. "as a former CIA director, he is not averse to secrecy" -having an active feeling of repugnance, dislike, or distaste —usually used with to "she was not averse to taking chances." -commonly used in compounds both with and without a hyphen "a conservative risk-averse investor"

Ambivalent /amˈbivələnt/

Adjective -having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. "some loved her, some hated her, few were ambivalent about her"

Indulgent /inˈdəljənt/

Adjective -having or indicating a tendency to be overly generous to or lenient with someone. "indulgent parents" -self-indulgent. "a slightly adolescent, indulgent account of a love affair" -willing to allow excessive leniency, generosity, or consideration "indulgent grandparents" -done or enjoyed as a special treat or pleasure "indulgent desserts" -allowing someone to have or do what they want, especially when this is not good for them "indulgent relatives" KIDS DEFINITION -feeling or showing a willingness to allow enjoyment of whatever is wanted; lenient "indulgent parents"

Covetous /ˈkəvədəs/

Adjective -having or showing a great desire to possess something belonging to someone else. "she fingered the linen with covetous hands" -marked by inordinate desire for wealth or possessions or for another's possessions "he looked at his boss's new car with covetous eyes." -having a craving for possession "covetous of power" -having or showing too much desire for wealth or possessions or for something belonging to another person

Malevolent /məˈlevələnt/

Adjective -having or showing a wish to do evil to others. "the glint of dark, malevolent eyes"

Diligent

Adjective -having or showing care and conscientiousness in one's work or duties "many cases are located only after a diligent search" -careful; hard-working

Virtuous /ˈvərCHo͞oəs/

Adjective -having or showing high moral standards. "she considered herself very virtuous because she neither drank nor smoked" -having or exhibiting virtue -morally excellent; righteous "a virtuous decision" -potent, efficacious ARCHAIC -chaste (typically used of a woman). KIDS DEFINITION -morally good; having or showing virtue

Virtuous /ˈvərCHo͞oəs/

Adjective -having or showing high moral standards. "she considered herself very virtuous because she neither drank nor smoked" -morally excellent; righteous "a virtuous decision" ARCHAIC -chaste (typically used of a woman).

Cunning /ˈkəniNG/

Adjective -having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion. "a cunning look came into his eyes" -ingenious. "plants have evolved cunning defenses" NORTH AMERICAN -attractive or quaint. "the baby will look cunning in that pink print" Noun -skill in achieving one's ends by deceit. "a statesman to whom cunning had come as second nature" -ingenuity. "what resources of energy and cunning it took just to survive"

Overzealous

Adjective -having or showing to much zeal -excessively eager, enthusiastic, or fervent -(of people) trying too hard -marked by excessive enthusiasm for and intense devotion to a cause or idea

Virile /ˈvirəl/

Adjective -having strength, energy, and a strong sex drive (typically used of a man). "he was a powerful, virile man" -having or characterized by strength and energy. "a strong, virile performance of the Mass" -having traditionally masculine traits especially to a marked degree -characteristic of or associated with men; masculine -having the nature, properties, or qualities of an adult male -having or suggesting qualities (such as strength and sexual energy) that are associated with men and that are usually considered attractive in men

Mimic

Adjective -imitate -imitation; mock Verb -to imitate closely -to ridicule by imitation -simulate "vegetable dishes that mimic meat" -to resemble by biological mimicry "a butterfly that mimics leaf"

Prominent

Adjective -important; famous -projecting from something; protuberant -situated so as to catch the attention; noticeable

Prominent /ˈprämənənt/

Adjective -important; famous. "she was a prominent member of the city council" -projecting from something; protuberant. "a man with big, prominent eyes like a lobster's" -situated so as to catch the attention; noticeable. "the new housing developments are prominent landmarks"

Magnificent /maɡˈnifəsənt/

Adjective -impressively beautiful, elaborate, or extravagant; striking. "a dramatic landscape of magnificent mountains" -very good; excellent. "she paid tribute to their magnificent efforts" -great in deed or exalted in place —used only of former famous rulers "Lorenzo the Magnificent" -marked by stately grandeur and lavishness "a magnificent way of life" -sumptuous in structure and adornment "a magnificent cathedral" -(broadly) strikingly beautiful or impressive "a magnificent physique" -impressive to the mind or spirit; sublime "magnificent prose" -exceptionally fine "a magnificent day" KIDS DEFINITION -very beautiful or impressive "a magnificent view"

Subliminal /(ˌ)sə-ˈbli-mə-nᵊl/

Adjective -inadequate to produce a sensation or a perception -existing or functioning below the threshold of consciousness "the subliminal mind" "subliminal advertising" -relating to things that influence your mind in a way that you do not notice -Below the threshold of conscious perception -Inadequate to produce conscious awareness but able to evoke a response "subliminal propaganda." -stored in a part of the memory that is inaccessible to conscious recall.

Impish /ˈimpiSH/

Adjective -inclined to do slightly naughty things for fun; mischievous. "he had an impish look about him"

Deft /deft/

Adjective -neatly skillful and quick in one's movements. "a deft piece of footwork" demonstrating skill and cleverness. "the script was both deft and literate" -characterized by facility and skill "the photographer's deft use of lighting" KIDS DEFINITION (Adjective) -quick and skillful in action "he cut hair with deft fingers."

Transgressive /ˌtranzˈɡresiv,tran(t)sˈɡresiv/

Adjective -involving a violation of accepted or imposed boundaries, especially those of social acceptability. "her experiences of transgressive love with both sexes" -relating to fiction, cinematography, or art in which orthodox cultural, moral, and artistic boundaries are challenged by the representation of unconventional behavior and the use of experimental forms. GEOLOGY (-of a stratum) overlapping others unconformably, especially as a result of marine transgression. -violating or challenging socially accepted standards of behavior, belief, morality, or taste: "we welcome those who are engaged in consensual, albeit transgressive sexualities." -violating a law, rule, command, or duty, or causing harm by doing so "we need to develop principled arguments that demonstrate the essentially transgressive nature of activities that damage the natural environment."

Transgressive /ˌtranzˈɡresiv,tran(t)sˈɡresiv/

Adjective -involving a violation of accepted or imposed boundaries, especially those of social acceptability. "her experiences of transgressive love with both sexes" -relating to fiction, cinematography, or art in which orthodox cultural, moral, and artistic boundaries are challenged by the representation of unconventional behavior and the use of experimental forms. GEOLOGY -(of a stratum) overlapping others unconformably, especially as a result of marine transgression. -violating or challenging socially accepted standards of behavior, belief, morality, or taste: We welcome those who are engaged in consensual, albeit transgressive sexualities. -violating a law, rule, command, or duty, or causing harm by doing so: We need to develop principled arguments that demonstrate the essentially transgressive nature of activities that damage the natural environment.

Arduous /ˈärjo͞oəs/

Adjective -involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring. "an arduous journey"

Renowned

Adjective -known or talked about by many people; famous "a restaurant renowned for its Southwestern-style food"

Amoral /āˈmôrəl/

Adjective -lacking a moral sense; unconcerned with the rightness or wrongness of something. "an amoral attitude to sex"

Rudderless /ˈrədərləs/

Adjective -lacking a rudder. lacking a clear sense of one's aims or principles. "today's leadership is rudderless"

Drab /drab/

Adjective -lacking brightness or interest; drearily dull. "the landscape was drab and gray" -of a dull light brown color. "drab camouflage uniforms" -not bright or colorful; too plain or dull to be interesting Noun -fabric of a dull brownish color. -(of a textiles) any of various cloths of a dull brown or gray color "dressed in drabs" -a light olive brown -a dull, lifeless, or faded appearance or quality -a small amount —usually used in the phrase dribs and drabs "receiving donations in dribs and drabs" ARCHAIC -a slovenly woman. -a prostitute.

Pusillanimous /ˌpyü-sə-ˈla-nə-məs/

Adjective -lacking courage and resolution : marked by contemptible timidity -weak and afraid of danger; cowardly

Humdrum /ˈhəmˌdrəm/

Adjective -lacking excitement or variety; dull; monotonous. "humdrum routine work" Noun -dullness; monotony. "an escape from the humdrum of his life"

Mundane /ˌmənˈdān/

Adjective -lacking interest or excitement; dull. "seeking a way out of his mundane, humdrum existence" -of this earthly world rather than a heavenly or spiritual one. "the boundaries of the mundane world" -relating to or denoting the branch of astrology that deals with political, social, economic, and geophysical events and processes.

Run-of-the-mill /ˈˌrən ə(v) T͟Hə ˈmil/

Adjective -lacking unusual or special aspects; ordinary. "a run-of-the-mill job"

Cumbersome /ˈkəmbərsəm/

Adjective -large or heavy and therefore difficult to carry or use; unwieldy. "cumbersome diving suits" -slow or complicated and therefore inefficient. "organizations with cumbersome hierarchical structures" -slow-moving; ponderous "cumbersome administrative procedures" DIALECT -burdensome, troublesome

Hefty /ˈheftē/

Adjective -large, heavy, and powerful. "a hefty young chap" -(of a number or amount) impressively large; substantial. "a hefty 10 million" -marked by bigness, bulk, and usually strength "a hefty football player"

Perennially /pəˈrenēəl/

Adjective -lasting or existing for a long or apparently infinite time; enduring or continually recurring. "his perennial distrust of the media" -(of a plant) living for several years. "tarragon is perennial" -(of a person) apparently permanently engaged in a specified role or way of life. "he's a perennial student" -(of a stream or spring) flowing throughout the year. -present at all seasons of the year -persisting for several years usually with new herbaceous growth from a perennating part "perennial asters" -persistent, enduring "perennial favorites" -continuing without interruption; constant, perpetual "the perennial quest for certainty" -regularly repeated or renewed; recurrent "death is a perennial literary theme" Noun -a perennial plant. "perennials will transform the garden in summer" Adverb (+ly) -in a way that continues for a long or apparently infinite time; permanently. "a new blow to the perennially struggling economy" -on a yearly basis for several years. "a lily that grows perennially from bulbs" KIDS DEFINITION Adjective -present all through the year "a perennial stream" -living from year to year "a perennial plant" -never ending; constant "perennial joy" -happening again and again "perennial flooding"

Strident /ˈstrīdnt/

Adjective -loud and harsh; grating. "his voice had become increasingly sharp, almost strident" -presenting a point of view, especially a controversial one, in an excessively and unpleasantly forceful way. "public pronouncements on the crisis became less strident" PHONETICS -another term for sibilant. -sounding harsh and unpleasant -expressing opinions or criticism in a very forceful and often annoying or unpleasant way

Ornate

Adjective -made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex pattern -(of a literary style) using unusual words and complex constructions -(of musical composition or performance) using many ornaments such as grace notes and trills.

Tumultuous /t(y)o͞oˈməlCHo͞oəs/

Adjective -making a loud, confused noise; uproarious. "tumultuous applause" -excited, confused, or disorderly. "a tumultuous crowd"

Raucous /ˈrôkəs/

Adjective -making or constituting a disturbingly harsh and loud noise. "raucous youths" -loud and unpleasant to listen to -behaving in a very rough and noisy way

Self-sufficient /ˈˌself səˈfiSHənt/

Adjective -needing no outside help in satisfying one's basic needs, especially with regard to the production of food. "I don't think Botswana, due to the climate, could ever be self-sufficient in food" -emotionally and intellectually independent. "their son was a little bit of a loner and very self-sufficient"

Inefficient /ˌinəˈfiSH(ə)nt/

Adjective -not achieving maximum productivity; wasting or failing to make the best use of time or resources. "an old, inefficient factory"

Inanimate /inˈanəmət/

Adjective -not alive, especially not in the manner of animals and humans. "inanimate objects like stones" -showing no sign of life; lifeless. "he was completely inanimate and it was difficult to see if he was breathing"

Impervious /imˈpərvēəs/

Adjective -not allowing fluid to pass through. "an impervious layer of basaltic clay" -unable to be affected by. "he worked, apparently impervious to the heat"

Impervious /imˈpərvēəs/

Adjective -not allowing fluid to pass through. "an impervious layer of basaltic clay" -unable to be affected by. "he worked, apparently impervious to the heat" -not allowing entrance or passage; impenetrable "a coat impervious to rain" -not capable of being damaged or harmed "a carpet impervious to rough treatment"

Inconspicuous /inken' spikyōōes/

Adjective -not clearly visible or attracting attention; not conspicuous "an inconspicuous red-brick building" -not prominent or easily noticeable

Obscure

Adjective -not discovered or known about; uncertain -not clearly expressed or easily understood -not important or well known -hard to make out or define; vague -(of a color) not sharply defined; dim or dingy Verb -keep from being seen; conceal "gray clouds obscure the sun" -make unclear and difficult to understand -overshadow

Frivolous /ˈfrivələs/

Adjective -not having any serious purpose or value. "rules to stop frivolous lawsuits" -(of a person) carefree and not serious. "the frivolous, fun-loving flappers of the twenties"

Frivolous

Adjective -not having any serious purpose or value. "rules to stop frivolous lawsuits" -(of a person) carefree and not serious. "the frivolous, fun-loving flappers of the twenties" -of little importance, not worthy of serious attention; not meant seriously

Misshapen

Adjective -not having the normal or natural shape or form -so badly formed or out of shape as to be ugly

Inadvertent /ˌinədˈvərtnt/

Adjective -not resulting from or achieved through deliberate planning. "an inadvertent administrative error occurred that resulted in an overpayment" -unintentional "an inadvertent omission" -not focusing the mind on a matter; inattentive KIDS DEFINITION -not intended or deliberate; accidental "an inadvertent mistake"

Unselfconscious /ˌənˌselfˈkänSHəs/

Adjective -not suffering from or exhibiting self-consciousness; not shy or embarrassed. "his behavior was natural and unselfconscious"

Frequent /ˈfrēkwənt/

Adjective -occurring or done on many occasions, in many cases, or in quick succession. "frequent changes in policy" -(of a person) doing something often; habitual. "a frequent visitor to New England" ARCHAIC found at short distances apart. "frequent army roadblocks" DATED•MEDICINE -(of the pulse) rapid. -common, usual "a frequent practice among these people" -happening at short intervals; often repeated or occurring "a bus making frequent stops" OBSOLETE -full, thronged -acting or returning regularly or often "a frequent visitor" ARCHAIC -intimate, familiar Verb -visit (a place) often or habitually. "bars frequented by soldiers" -to associate with, be in, or resort to often or habitually "a bar frequented by sports fans" ARCHAIC -to read systematically or habitually

Posthumous /ˈpäsCHəməs/

Adjective -occurring, awarded, or appearing after the death of the originator. "he was awarded a posthumous Military Cross" -(of a child) born after the death of its father. "Newton was the posthumous son of an illiterate yeoman" -born after the death of the father -published after the death of the author -following or occurring after death posthumous fame -happening, done, or published after someone's death

Lofty /ˈlôftē/

Adjective -of imposing height. "the elegant square was shaded by lofty palms" -of a noble or exalted nature. "an extraordinary mixture of harsh reality and lofty ideals" -proud, aloof, or self-important. "lofty intellectual disdain" -(of wool and other textiles) thick and resilient.

Serpentine /ˈsərpənˌtēn,ˈsərpənˌtīn/

Adjective -of or like a serpent or snake. "serpentine coils" -winding and twisting like a snake. "serpentine country lanes" -complex, cunning, or treacherous. "his charm was too subtle and serpentine for me" -subtly wily or tempting -winding or turning one way and another "a serpentine road" Noun -a dark green mineral consisting of hydrated magnesium silicate, sometimes mottled or spotted like a snake's skin. -a mineral or rock consisting essentially of a hydrous magnesium silicate usually having a dull green color and often a mottled appearance -a riding exercise consisting of a series of half-circles made alternately to right and left. "for young horses, suppleness and control were built with serpentines" HISTORICAL -a kind of cannon, used especially in the 15th and 16th centuries. Verb -move or lie in a winding path or line. "fresh tire tracks serpentined back toward the hopper" KIDS DEFINITION (Adjective) -winding or turning one way and another "a serpentine path"

Infantile /ˈinfənˌtīl,ˈinfəntil/

Adjective -of or occurring among babies or very young children. "infantile colic" DEROGATORY -childish. "infantile jokes"

Akin /əˈkin/

Adjective -of similar character. "something akin to gratitude overwhelmed her" -related by blood. "my parents were akin, probably half cousins"

Vast /vast/

Adjective -of very great extent or quantity; immense. "a vast plain of buffalo grass" Noun -an immense space

Imperative

Adjective -of vital importance; crucial "immediate action was imperative" -absolutely necessary -giving an authoritative command; peremptory "the bell pealed again, a final imperative call" -denoting the mood of a verb that expresses a command or exhortation, as in "come here!" Noun -an essential or urgent thing "free movement of labor was an economic imperative" -a factor or influence making something necessary "the change came about through a financial imperative"

Paradoxical /ˌperəˈdäksək(ə)l/

Adjective -seemingly absurd or self-contradictory. "by glorifying the acts of violence they achieve the paradoxical effect of making them trivial" -of the nature of a paradox "the paradoxical theory that global warming will lead to the next Ice Age" -inclined to paradoxes -not being the normal or usual kind "a paradoxical pulse" "paradoxical drug reactions" -something that appears false or contradictory but is actually correct

Austere /ôˈstir/

Adjective -severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance. "an austere man, with a rigidly puritanical outlook" -(of living conditions or a way of life) having no comforts or luxuries; harsh or ascetic. "conditions in the prison could hardly be more austere" -having an extremely plain and simple style or appearance; unadorned. "the cathedral is impressive in its austere simplicity" -(of an economic policy or measure) designed to reduce a budget deficit, especially by cutting public expenditure. -simple or plain; not fancy "they choose austere furnishings for the office." -(of a person) having a serious and unfriendly quality "her father was an austere [=stern, unapproachable] figure." -having few pleasures; simple and harsh "they lived an austere life in the country." -stern and cold in appearance or manner "an austere Puritan" -morally strict; ascetic -(of a wine) having the flavor of acid or tannin predominant over fruit flavors usually indicating a capacity for aging.

Tremulous /ˈtremyələs/

Adjective -shaking or quivering slightly. "Barbara's voice was tremulous" -timid; nervous. "he gave a tremulous smile" -shaking slightly especially because of nervousness, weakness, or illness -feeling or showing a lack of confidence or courage -exceedingly sensitive : easily shaken or disordered

Consummate /ˈkänsəmət/

Adjective -showing a high degree of skill and flair; complete or perfect. "she dressed with consummate elegance" -extremely skilled and accomplished "a consummate liar" -of the highest degree "consummate skill" -complete in every detail; perfect "a consummate model of a clipper ship"

Timid

Adjective -showing a lack of courage or confidence; easily frightened "I was too timid to ask for what I wanted"

Audacious /ôˈdāSHəs/

Adjective -showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks. "a series of audacious takeovers" -showing an impudent lack of respect. "an audacious remark" -intrepidly daring; adventurous "an audacious mountain climber" -recklessly bold; rash "an audacious maneuver" -contemptuous of law, religion, or decorum; insolent "an audacious maverick" -marked by originality and verve "audacious experiments" KIDS DEFINITION (Adjective) -very bold and daring; fearless "an audacious scheme" -disrespectful of authority; insolent "an audacious radio personality"

Overweening /ˌōvərˈwēniNG/

Adjective -showing excessive confidence or pride. "overweening ambition" -arrogant; presumptuous. -too confident or proud -too great; excessive and unpleasant

Assiduous /əˈsijo͞oəs/

Adjective -showing great care and perseverance. "she was assiduous in pointing out every feature" -showing great care, attention, and effort; marked by careful unremitting attention or persistent application "assiduous planning"

Complacent /kəmˈplās(ə)nt/

Adjective -showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements. "you can't afford to be complacent about security" -marked by self-satisfaction especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies : marked by complacency; self-satisfied "a complacent smile" -unconcerned -feeling or showing satisfaction and lack of worry or caution "his team became complacent in the second half and lost the game."

Amorous /ˈam(ə)rəs/

Adjective -showing, feeling, or relating to sexual desire. "she rejected his amorous advances" -strongly moved by love and especially sexual love "amorous couples" -being in love; enamored —usually used with of "amorous of the girl" -indicative of love "received amorous glances from her partner" -of or relating to love "an amorous novel"

Latter

Adjective -situated or occurring nearer to the end of something than to the beginning -recent -denoting the second or second mentioned of two people or things

Seedy /ˈsēdē/

Adjective -sordid and disreputable. "his seedy affair with a soft-porn starlet" -shabby and squalid. "an increasingly seedy and dilapidated property" DATED -unwell. "she felt weak and seedy" -containing or full of seeds "a seedy fruit" -inferior in condition or quality: such as a. shabby, run-down "seedy clothes" b. somewhat disreputable "a seedy district" c. slightly unwell; debilitated "felt seedy and went home early"

Conspicuous

Adjective -standing out so as to be clearly visible "he was very thin, with a conspicuous Adam's apple" -attracting notice or attention "he showed conspicuous bravery"

Unwavering /ˌənˈwāv(ə)riNG/

Adjective -steady or resolute; not wavering. "she fixed him with an unwavering stare"

Vigorous

Adjective -strong, healthy, and full of energy -characterized by or involving physical strength, effort, or energy. -(of a language) forceful "a vigorous denial"

Abrupt /əˈbrəpt/

Adjective -sudden and unexpected. "I was surprised by the abrupt change of subject" -brief to the point of rudeness; curt. "you were rather abrupt with that young man" -(of a style of speech or writing) not flowing smoothly; disjointed. "abrupt, epigrammatic paragraphs" -steep; precipitous. "the abrupt double peak of the mountain"

Gangly

Adjective -tall, thin, and awkward -tall, thin, and moving with a loose-jointed awkwardness

Feverish /ˈfē-vrish/

Adjective -tending to cause fever -having the symptoms of a fever -indicating or relating to fever -marked by intense emotion, activity, or instability "feverish excitement" -showing strong feelings of excitement or worry, often with a lot of activity or quick movements -suffering from a fever; caused by a fever

Wobbly /ˈwäb(ə)lē/

Adjective -tending to move unsteadily from side to side. "the car had a wobbly wheel" -(of a person or their legs) weak and unsteady from illness, tiredness, or anxiety. "she still felt a bit wobbly on her legs" -(of a person, action or state) uncertain, wavering, or insecure. "the evening gets off to a wobbly start" -(of a speaker, singer, or voice) having a tendency to move out of tone or slightly vary in pitch. "a wobbly soprano" -(of a line or handwriting) not straight or regular; shaky.

Incorrigible /inˈkôrəjəb(ə)l/

Adjective -(of a person or their tendencies) not able to be corrected, improved, or reformed. "he's an incorrigible liar" -incapable of being corrected or amended: -not reformable; depraved -delinquent -not manageable; unruly -unalterable, inveterate Noun -an incorrigible person. "all repeat offenders, but none of them real hard-case incorrigibles"

Fussy

Adjective -(of a person) fastidious about one's needs and requirements; hard to please "he is very fussy about what he eats" -showing excessive or anxious concern about detail "Eleanor patter her hair with quick, fussy movements" -full of unnecessary detail or decoration "I hate fussy clothes"

Heady /ˈhedē/

Adjective -(of liquor) potent; intoxicating. "several bottles of heady local wine" -having a strong or exhilarating effect. "a heady, exotic perfume"

Emaciated /əˈmāSHēˌādəd/

Adjective -abnormally thin or weak, especially because of illness or a lack of food. "she was so emaciated she could hardly stand"

Cantankerous /kanˈtaNGk(ə)rəs/

Adjective -bad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperative. "a crusty, cantankerous old man" -is difficult or irritating to deal with "a cantankerous mule"

Brazen /ˈbrāzən/

Adjective -bold and without shame. "he went about his illegal business with a brazen assurance" -acting or done in a very open and shocking way without shame or embarrassment LITERARY•ARCHAIC -made of brass. "brazen fire irons" -harsh in sound. "the music's brazen chords" Verb -endure an embarrassing or difficult situation by behaving with apparent confidence and lack of shame. "there was nothing to do but brazen it out"

Fulsome /ˈfu̇l-səm/

Adjective -characterized by abundance; copious "describes in fulsome detail" -generous in amount, extent, or spirit "the passengers were fulsome in praise of the plane's crew" -being full and well developed "she was in generally fulsome, limpid voice" -aesthetically, morally, or generally offensive "fulsome lies and nauseous flattery" -exceeding the bounds of good taste; overdone "the fulsome chromium glitter of the escalators dominating the central hall" -excessively complimentary or flattering; effusive "an admiration whose extent I did not express, lest I be thought fulsome" -expressing something (such as praise or thanks) in a very enthusiastic or emotional way

Icy /ˈī-sē/

Adjective -covered with, abounding in, or consisting of ice -intensely cold -characterized by coldness; frigid "an icy stare" -not friendly or kind -in an icy manner; very coldly.

New-fangled

Adjective -different from what one is used to; objectionably new

Spontaneous /spän-ˈtā-nē-əs/

Adjective -done or said in a natural and often sudden way and without a lot of thought or planning "spontaneous laughter" "a spontaneous kiss/decision" "the comment was completely spontaneous." -doing things that have not been planned but that seem enjoyable and worth doing at a particular time "he's a guy who's spontaneous and fun." -proceeding from natural feeling or native tendency without external constraint -arising from a momentary impulse -controlled and directed internally; self-acting "spontaneous movement characteristic of living things" -produced without being planted or without human labor; indigenous -developing or occurring without apparent external influence, force, cause, or treatment -not apparently contrived or manipulated; natural

Ethereal /əˈTHirēəl/

Adjective -extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world. "her ethereal beauty" -heavenly or spiritual. "ethereal, otherworldly visions" CHEMISTRY -(of a solution) having diethyl ether as a solvent. "sodium is dissolved in ethereal solutions of aromatic ketones" FORMAL -in heaven "ethereal heights" -resembling heaven; seeming to belong to another world "the windows give the church an ethereal glow."

Indignant

Adjective -feeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment. "he was indignant at being the object of suspicion"

Exuberant /iɡˈzo͞ob(ə)rənt/

Adjective -filled with or characterized by a lively energy and excitement. "giddily exuberant crowds" LITERARY -growing luxuriantly or profusely. "exuberant foliage" -joyously unrestrained and enthusiastic "exuberant praise" -unrestrained or elaborate especially in style; flamboyant "exuberant architecture" -produced in extreme abundance; plentiful "exuberant foliage and vegetation" -extreme or excessive in degree, size, or extent "exuberant prosperity" -very lively, happy, or energetic : filled with energy and enthusiasm -existing in large amounts; very plentiful

Inveterate /inˈvedərət/

Adjective -having a particular habit, activity, or interest that is long-established and unlikely to change. "he was an inveterate gambler" -(of a feeling or habit) long-established and unlikely to change. "the inveterate hostility between the two countries was not easily eradicated" -firmly established by long persistence "the inveterate tendency to overlook the obvious"

Sinuous /ˈsinyo͞oəs/

Adjective -having many curves and turns. "the river follows a sinuous trail through the forest" -lithe and supple. "the sinuous grace of a cat" -having many twists and turns -moving and bending in a smooth and attractive way

Wistful /ˈwis(t)fəl/

Adjective -having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing. "a wistful smile" -having or showing sad thoughts and feelings about something that you want to have or do and especially about something that made you happy in the past

Sagacious /səˈɡāSHəs/

Adjective -having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; shrewd. "they were sagacious enough to avoid any outright confrontation" -having or showing an ability to understand difficult ideas and situations and to make good decisions; wise

Dubious

Adjective -hesitating or doubting -not to be relied upon; suspect -morally suspect -of a question value

Atrocious /əˈtrōSHəs/

Adjective -horrifyingly wicked. "atrocious cruelties" -of a very poor quality; extremely bad or unpleasant. "he attempted an atrocious imitation of my English accent" -extremely wicked, brutal, or cruel; barbaric "prisoners subjected to atrocious treatment" -appalling; horrifying "the atrocious weapons of modern war" -characterized by extreme cruelty or viciousness (Legal) "atrocious assault and battery"

Crude

Adjective -in a natural or raw state; not yet processed or refined "crude protein" -(of language, behavior, or a person) offensively coarse or rude, especially in relation to sexual manner "a crude joke" -rude in a way that makes people uncomfortable -lacking a covering, glossing, or concealing element: obvious "crude facts" -very simple and basic : made or done in a way that does not show a lot of skill

Bland

Adjective -lacking a strong characteristics or features and therefore uninteresting "rebelling against the bland uniformity" -(of a food or drink) mild or insipid "bland and unadventurous vegetarian dish" -(of a person or behavior) showing no strong emotion; dull and unremarkable "his expression was bland and unreadable"

Feeble

Adjective -lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness "my legs are very feeble after the flu" -(of a sound) faint "his voice sounded feeble and far away" -lacking a strength of character "she overreacted in such a feeble, juvenile way" -failing to convince or impress "a feeble excuse"

Inadequate

Adjective -lacking the quality or quantity required; insufficient for a purpose. "these labels prove to be wholly inadequate" -(of a person) unable to deal with a situation or with life "a sad, solitary, inadequate man"

Woolly

Adjective -made of wool -(of an animal, plant, or part) bearing or naturally covered with wool or hair resembling wool -resembling wool in texture or appearance -vague or confused in expression in expression or character -indistinct or distorted Noun -a garment made of wool, especially a pullover -a sheep

Unplaceable /ˌənˈplāsəb(ə)l/

Adjective -not able to be placed or classified. "an unplaceable accent" -not able to be put in, assigned to, or identified with a particular place; not placeable "an unplaceable accent"

Slack

Adjective -not taut or held tightly in position; loose -(of business) characterized by a lack of work or activity; quiet. -slow or sluggish -having or showing laziness or negligence -(of a tide) neither ebbing nor flowing Noun -the part of a rope or line which is not held taut; the loose or unused part -a spell of inactivity or laziness -casual trousers Verb -loosen (something, especially a rope) -decrease or reduce in intensity, quantity, or speed -work slowly or lazily -slake (time) Adverb -loosely

Trivial /ˈtrivēəl/

Adjective -of little value or importance. "huge fines were imposed for trivial offenses" -(of a person) concerned only with trifling or unimportant things. MATHEMATICS -denoting a subgroup that either contains only the identity element or is identical with the given group.

Genteel /jen'tēl/

Adjective -polite, refined, or respectable, often in an affected or ostentatious way "her genteel upbringing"

Puritanical /ˌpyo͝orəˈtanək(ə)l/

Adjective -practicing or affecting strict religious or moral behavior. "his puritanical parents saw any kind of pleasure as the road to damnation" -of, relating to, or characterized by a rigid morality -puritan -believing or involving the belief that it is important to work hard and control yourself, and that pleasure is wrong or unnecessary "she is very puritanical about sex." -very strict in moral or religious matters, often excessively so; rigidly austere -mean that they have very strict moral principles, and often try to make other people behave in a more moral way.

Ascendant /əˈsendənt/

Adjective -rising in power or influence. "ascendant moderate factions in the party" ASTROLOGY -(of a planet, zodiacal degree, or sign) just above the eastern horizon. Noun -the point on the ecliptic at which it intersects the eastern horizon at a particular time, typically that of a person's birth. -a state or position of dominant power or importance

Spiteful /ˈspītfəl/

Adjective -showing or caused by malice. "the teachers made spiteful little jokes about me"

Amorous /ˈam(ə)rəs/

Adjective -showing, feeling, or relating to sexual desire. "she rejected his amorous advances" -strongly moved by love and especially sexual love "amorous couples" -being in love; enamored —usually used with of "amorous of the girl" -indicative of love "received amorous glances from her partner" -of or relating to love "an amorous novel"

Specious /ˈspēSHəs/

Adjective -superficially plausible, but actually wrong. "a specious argument" -misleading in appearance, especially misleadingly attractive. "the music trade gives Golden Oldies a specious appearance of novelty" -having a false look of truth or genuineness; sophistic "specious reasoning" -having deceptive attraction or allure OBSOLETE -showy -falsely appearing to be fair, just, or right; appearing to be true but actually false

Twofold /ˈto͞oˌfōld/

Adjective -twice as great or as numerous. "a twofold increase in the risk" -having two parts or elements. "the twofold demands of the business and motherhood" -having two parts or aspects -being twice as great or as many Adverb -so as to double; to twice the number or amount. "use increased more than twofold from 1979 to 1989"

Off-putting

Adjective -unpleasant, disconcerting, or repellent "his scar is somewhat off-putting" -not pleasing or likable: causing to feel dislike of someone or something -(of behaviour) irritating or unattractive

Voracious /vəˈrāSHəs/

Adjective -wanting or devouring great quantities of food. "he had a voracious appetite" -having a very eager approach to an activity. "his voracious reading of literature"

Feverishly /ˈfēv(ə)riSHlē/

Adverb -in a manner that shows the symptoms of a fever. "water trickled from his hair and he began shivering feverishly" -in a frenetically excited or energetic manner. "a feverishly anticipated major sports tournament" -In a highly emotional or nervous way

Sparingly

Adverb -in a restricted or infrequent manner; in small quantities

Paradoxically /ˌperəˈdäksik(ə)lē/

Adverb -in a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory way. "the strength of capitalism is, paradoxically, also its weakness" -in a way that seems impossible or difficult to understand because of containing two opposite facts or characteristics -counter to what one would think; contradictory

Retrospect /ˈretrəˌspekt/

Noun -a survey or review of a past course of events or period of time. "a full retrospect of the battle"

Plump /pləmp/

Adjective (1) -having a full rounded shape. "the berries were plump and sweet" -(of a person) slightly fat. "she wore an outfit she'd always wanted to try but felt she was too plump to risk" -having a full rounded usually pleasing form "a plump woman" -ample; abundant Verb (1) -shake or pat (a cushion or pillow) to adjust its stuffing and make it rounded and soft. "she plumped up her pillows" -become rounder and fatter. "stew the dried fruits gently until they plump up" Verb (2) -set (something) down heavily or unceremoniously. "she plumped her bag on the table" -sit down heavily and unceremoniously. "she plumped herself down in the nearest seat" -to drop, sink, or come in contact suddenly or heavily "plumped down in the chair" -to favor or decide in favor of someone or something strongly or emphatically —used with for -to drop, cast, or place suddenly or heavily -to give support and favorable publicity to Noun (2) ARCHAIC -an abrupt plunge; a heavy fall. "the wagon came into a deep hole, with such a plump" -a sudden plunge, fall, or blow; (also) the sound made by a plump Adverb (2) INFORMAL -with a sudden or heavy fall. "she sat down plump on the bed" -with a sudden or heavy drop -straight down -straight ahead -without qualification; directly "plump out of luck" DATED•INFORMAL -directly and bluntly. "he must tell her plump and plain that he was collecting unemployment" Noun (3) -a flock of wildfowl. "a plump of ducks rose at the same time" -group; flock "a plump of ducks rose at the same time"

Potent /ˈpōtnt/

Adjective (1) -having great power, influence, or effect. "thrones were potent symbols of authority" -(of a male) able to achieve an erection or to reach an orgasm. -achieving or bringing about a particular result; effective -chemically or medicinally effective "a potent vaccine" -rich in a characteristic constituent "a potent drink" -able to copulate —usually used of the male Adjective HERALDRY -formed of crutch-shaped pieces; (especially of a cross) having a straight bar across the end of each extremity. "a cross potent" -of the fur called potent (as a tincture). Noun -fur resembling vair, but with the alternating pieces T-shaped.

Rakish /ˈrākiSH/

Adjective (1) -having or displaying a dashing, jaunty, or slightly disreputable quality or appearance. "he had a rakish, debonair look" Adjective (2) -(especially of a boat or car) trim and fast-looking, with streamlined angles and curves. "a rakish Chevrolet"

Brash /braSH/

Adjective (1) -self-assertive in a rude, noisy, or overbearing way. "he could be brash, cocky, and arrogant" -strong, energetic, or irreverent. "I like brash, vibrant flavors" -(of a place or thing) having an ostentatious or tasteless appearance. "the cafe was a brash new building" -brittle "brash wood" -heedless of the consequences; audacious "a brash adventurer" -done in haste without regard for consequences; rash "brash acts" -full of fresh raw vitality "a brash frontier town" -uninhibitedly energetic or demonstrative; bumptious "a brash comedian" -lacking restraint and discernment; tactless "brash remarks" -aggressively self-assertive; impudent "brash to the point of arrogance" -piercingly sharp; harsh "a brash squeal of brakes" -marked by vivid contrast; bold "brash colors" Noun (2) -loose broken rock or ice. -a mass of fragments (as of ice) -an attack of illness; (especially) a short severe illness -water brash

Batty

Adjective (informal: British) -crazy; insane. "you'll drive me batty!"

Crass /kras/

Adjective (superlative adjective: crassest) -lacking sensitivity, refinement, or intelligence. "the crass assumptions that men make about women" -especially having or indicating such grossness of mind as precludes delicacy and discrimination -being beneath one's dignity "crass concerns of daily life" -used as a pejorative intensifier "crass flattery" -having or showing no understanding of what is proper or acceptable; rude and insensitive

Frequent

Adjective /ˈfrēkwənt/ -occurring or done on many occasions, in many cases, or in quick succession. "frequent changes in policy" -(of a person) doing something often; habitual. "a frequent visitor to New England" ARCHAIC -found at short distances apart. "frequent army roadblocks" DATED•MEDICINE -(of the pulse) rapid. Verb /frēˈkwent/ -visit (a place) often or habitually. "bars frequented by soldiers"

Tune

Adjust or adapt (something) to a particular purpose or situation. ex: the animals are finely tuned to life in the desert

Forthwith /fôrTHˈwiTH/

Adverb -(especially in official use) immediately; without delay. "we undertake to pay forthwith the money required"

Thereafter

Adverb -after that time "thereafter their fortunes suffered a steep decline"

Hence

Adverb -as a consequence; for this reason "a stiff breeze and hence a high windchill" -in the future (used after a period of time) "two years hence they might say something quite different"

Apparently /əˈperəntlē/

Adverb -as far as one knows or can see. "the child nodded, apparently content with the promise"

Astray /əˈstrā/

Adverb -away from the correct path or direction. "we went astray but a man redirected us" -into error or morally questionable behavior. "he was led astray by boozy colleagues"

Thereby

Adverb -by that means; as a result of that; because of that

Glumly

Adverb -done in a depressed or sullen way -sullenly or silently gloomy; dejected, sadly

Wholly /ˈhōl(l)ē/

Adverb -entirely; fully. "she found herself given over wholly to sensation"

Dutifully /ˈd(y)o͞odəfəlē/

Adverb -in a conscientious or obedient manner. "I dutifully reported the accident" -in a manner motivated by duty rather than desire or enthusiasm. "we all dutifully applauded the support act" -in a way that shows that you want to obey and do everything that you are expected to do

Amiably

Adverb -in a friendly and pleasant manner

En masse /än ˈmas/

Adverb -in a group; all together. "the board of directors resigned en masse" -in a body; as a whole "moved the inmates en masse to the new prison"

Aptly /ˈaptlē/

Adverb -in a manner that is appropriate or suitable in the circumstances. "America's aptly named Sunshine State"

Indiscretion /ˌindəˈskreSH(ə)n/

Noun -behavior or speech that is indiscreet or displays a lack of good judgment. "he knew himself all too prone to indiscretion"

Sternly /ˈstərnlē/

Adverb -in a serious and severe manner, especially when asserting authority or exercising discipline. "he sternly warned me to not do anything stupid" -in a way that is difficult and puts extreme pressure on someone or something. "a fight had ensued, which sternly tested my peace-making skills"

Drastically

Adverb -in a way that is likely to have a strong or far-reaching effect -extremely; very

Perpetually

Adverb -in a way that never ends or changes; constantly. "perpetually hungry teenage boys"

Meticulously /məˈtikyələslē/

Adverb -in a way that shows great attention to detail; very thoroughly. "a meticulously researched book"

Insincerely

Adverb -in a way that shows that you are pretending to feel something that you do not really feel or do not mean what you say -not expressing genuine feelings

Duly

Adverb -in accordance with what is required or appropriate; following proper procedure or arrangement. "a document duly signed and authorized by the inspector" -as might be expected or predicted "I used the tent and was duly impressed"

Passively

Adverb -in an accepting manner, without active response or resistance. "we don't have to sit passively by while others decide our fate" -using the passive voice. "it is passively expressed that he was "carried up."" -from a transmitter or target rather than by generating a signal. "some cell phones passively receive data from geosynchronous satellites" -by making use of incident sunlight as an energy source. "passively heated homes"

Briskly /ˈbrisklē/

Adverb -in an active, quick, or energetic way. "she walked briskly into the building" -in an impatient or brusque way. ""we've never dated, if that's what you're asking," she replied briskly." -in a cold but pleasantly invigorating way. "the wind blew fairly briskly"

Coyly /ˈkoilē/

Adverb -in an outwardly shy or modest way intended to be alluring. "she smiles coyly for the camera" -in a way that shows reluctance to give details about something regarded as sensitive. "he coyly withheld his candidacy"

Coyly /ˈkoilē/

Adverb -in an outwardly shy or modest way intended to be alluring. "she smiles coyly for the camera" -​in a way that is shy, or that is pretending to be shy and innocent, especially about love or sex, and sometimes in order to make people more interested in you. -in a way that shows reluctance to give details about something regarded as sensitive. "he coyly withheld his candidacy" -in a way that intentionally tries to keep something secret "there are things I cannot talk about"

Relentlessly /rəˈlentləslē/

Adverb -in an unceasingly intense or harsh way. "Joseph worked relentlessly"

Invariably /ˌinˈverēəblē/

Adverb -in every case or on every occasion; always. "the meals here are invariably big and hearty"

Broadly

Adverb -in general and with the exception of minor details -widely and openly

Relatively /ˈrelədivlē/

Adverb -in relation, comparison, or proportion to something else. "it is perfectly simple, relatively speaking, to store a full catalog entry on magnetic tape" -viewed in comparison with something else rather than absolutely. "the site was cheap and relatively clean" -to a relative degree or extent; somewhat "a relatively small group of people"

Nevertheless /ˌnevərT͟Həˈles/

Adverb -in spite of that; notwithstanding; all the same; however. "statements which, although literally true, are nevertheless misleading" -used when saying something that contrasts with what has just been said. "many marriages fail. nevertheless, people continue to get married"

Seldom /ˈseldəm/

Adverb -not often; rarely. "Islay is seldom visited by tourists" DATED -not common; infrequent. "a great but seldom pleasure"

Abreast

Adverb -side by side and facing the same way -alongside or even with something -up to date with the latest news, ideas, or information

Profusely /prəˈfyo͞oslē,prōˈfyo͞oslē/

Adverb -to a great degree; in large amounts. "the book is profusely illustrated with period photos"

Immensely /iˈmenslē/

Adverb -to a great extent; extremely. -to a very great or immense degree or extent; exceedingly, enormously "we enjoyed ourselves immensely."

Disproportionately

Adverb -to an extent that is too large or too small in comparison with something else. "a tax cut would disproportionately benefit rich"

Meanderingly

Adverb -to move aimlessly and idly without fixed direction -without clearcut or urgent course or aim

Thereto

Adverb -to that or that place "the third party assents thereto"

Certainly

Adverb -undoubtedly; definitely; surely -(in answer to a question or command) yes; by all means.

Presumably /pre'z(y)ōōmeblë/

Adverb -used to convey that what is asserted is very likely though not known for certain "the Yakima Indians presumably came from Asia by way of the Bering Strait"

Essentially

Adverb -used to emphasize the basic, fundamental, or intrinsic nature of a person, thing, or situation. "essentially, they are amateurs"

Perhaps

Adverb -used to expressed uncertainty or possibility -used when one does not wish to be too definite or assertive in the expression of an opinion -used when making a polite request, offer, or suggestion -used to say that something may be true, but you are not sure

Premise

NOUN -a previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion. (e.g., "if the premise is true, then the conclusion must be true") -an assertion or proposition which forms the basis for a work or theory (e.g., "the fundamental premise of the report") VERB -base an argument, theory, or undertaking on "the reforms were premised on our findings" -state or presuppose (something) as a premise "one school of thought premised that the cosmos is indestructible" -state by the way of introduction "i will premise generally that i hate lecturing"

Figuratively /ˈfiɡyərədəvlē/

Adverb -used to indicate a departure from a literal use of words; metaphorically. "we left a lot of people literally and figuratively in the dark" -in a style representing forms that are recognizably derived from life. "Chinese art influenced her to paint figuratively" -with a meaning that is metaphorical rather than literal -in a way that uses words and phrases with a more imaginative meaning than usual: "figuratively speaking, it was a blow right between the eyes (= it was a bad shock)." -describes something symbolic, not actual. if a friend invites you to tonight's concert but you already have plans with your family, you might say — figuratively — "that your hands are tied."

Rather /ˈraT͟Hər/

Adverb -used to indicate one's preference in a particular matter. "would you like some wine or would you rather stick to sherry?" SOUTH AFRICAN -used to express a recommended alternative, but without a than clause and used with verbs other than would ; instead. "this opens up a whole can of worms that should rather be left shut" -to a certain or significant extent or degree. "she's been behaving rather strangely" -used before verbs as a way of making the expression of a feeling or opinion less assertive. "I rather think he wants me to marry him" -used to precede an idea that is different or opposite to a previous statement. "There is no shortage of basic skills in the workplace. Rather, the problem is poor management" -more precisely (used to modify or clarify something previously stated). "I walked, or rather limped, the two miles home" -instead of; as opposed to. "she seemed indifferent rather than angry" -with better reason or more propriety; more properly "this you should pity rather than despise" -more readily or willingly; preferably "I'd rather not go" -often used interjectionally to express affirmation -more correctly speaking "my father, or rather my stepfather" -to the contrary; instead "was no better but rather grew worse" -in some degree; somewhat "it's rather warm" -often used as a mild intensive "spent rather a lot of money" Exclamation DATED•BRITISH -used to express emphatic affirmation, agreement, or acceptance. ""You are glad to be home, aren't you?" "Rather!""

Ardently /ˈärd(ə)ntlē/

Adverb -very enthusiastically or passionately. "both men ardently supported the war"

Unceremoniously /ˌənserəˈmōnēəslē/

Adverb -with a lack of courtesy; roughly or abruptly. "he was unceremoniously dumped by the record company"

Promptly /ˈpräm(p)tlē/

Adverb -with little or no delay; immediately. "he paid the fine promptly" -used to express surprise, and slight disapproval, when someone does something shortly after something else. "I won my appeal, but instead of reinstating me, they promptly sacked me again" -at exactly a specified time; punctually. "Jamie arrived promptly at 8:30"

Overtly /ōˈvərtlē,ˈōvərtlē/

Adverb -without concealment or secrecy; openly. "the selection policy was not overtly stated"

Unswervingly

Adverb -without swerving or turning aside the ship drives unswervingly through the night -not changing; steady and constant; dependable

Thereupon /ˌT͟Herəˈpän/

Adverb FORMAL -immediately or shortly after that. "he thereupon returned to Moscow" -on that matter -therefore KIDS DEFINITION -on that thing "they found the tree and thereupon the tree house." 2 : for that reason "I apologized and thereupon we made up." -immediately after that; at once "they ate and thereupon left."

Perforce /pərˈfôrs/

Adverb FORMAL -used to express necessity or inevitability. "amateurs, perforce, have to settle for less expensive solutions" -by force of circumstances or of necessity "these images are perforce in black and white because there is no color at x-ray wavelengths."

Fulsomely /ˈfʊl.səm.li/

Adverb -in a way that expresses a lot of admiration or praise for someone, often too much, in a way that does not sound sincere "he thanked her fulsomely for her help."

Unflinchingly

Adverb -in a way that shows someone is not frightened or is not trying to avoid something "The movie takes an unflinchingly honest look at an issue that faces us all." "She stared back unflinchingly at him." Adjective -steadfast "unflinching determination" -staying strong and determined even when things are difficult

Assiduously /əˈsijo͞oəslē/

Adverb -with great care and perseverance. "leaders worked assiduously to hammer out an action plan"

Albeit /ôlˈbēit,alˈbēit/

Conjunction -although. "he was making progress, albeit rather slowly"

Famished /ˈfamiSHt/

INFORMAL Adjective -extremely hungry. "I'm famished—is there anything to eat?" -is intensely hungry; also needy.

Ick /ik/

INFORMAL • NORTH AMERICAN Exclamation -used to express disgust. "oatmeal—ick!" Noun -an unpleasantly sticky or congealed substance. "she scrubbed the ick off the back of the stove" Interjection -used to express disgust at something unpleasant or offensive "together we dragged [the fish] flopping on the grassy bank, where it smacked its tail and made Lecia sidestep with an odd daintiness. She actually said ick."

Antique

NOUN -a collectible object such as a piece of furniture or work of art that has a high value because of its considerable age. ADJECTIVE -(of a collective object) having a high value because of considerable age -(of a method of finishing a wooden surface) intended ti resemble the appearance of antique furniture -belonging to ancient times -old-fashioned or outdated -showing signs or great age or wear VERB -make (something) resemble an antique by artificial means -search or shop for antiques

Morpheme

NOUN -a meaningful morphological unit of a language that cannot be further divided (e.g., in, come, -ing, forming 'incoming') -in a language, the smallest unit that carries meaning; may be a word or a part of a word (such as a prefix)

Appellation

NOUN -a name or title -the action of giving a name to a person or thing

Veteran

NOUN -a person who has had long experience in a particular field -a person who has served in the military

Vicar /ˈvikər/

Noun -(in the Roman Catholic Church) a representative or deputy of a bishop. -(in the Episcopal Church) a member of the clergy in charge of a chapel. -(in the Church of England) an incumbent of a parish where tithes formerly passed to a chapter or religious house or layman. -(in other Anglican Churches) a member of the clergy deputizing for another. -a cleric or choir member appointed to sing certain parts of a cathedral service. -one serving as a substitute or agent (specifically) an administrative deputy

Virtue

Noun -A habitual and firm disposition to do good -behavior showing high moral standards -a quality considered morally good or desirable in a person -a good or useful quality of a thing -virginity or chastity, especially of a woman

Stoic /ˈstōik/

Noun -A person who can endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining. -a member of the ancient philosophical school of Stoicism.

Lapse

Noun -A temporary failure of concentration, memory, or judgement -A week careless decline from previously high standards Law -the termination of a right or privilege through disuse or failure to follow appropriate procedures -an interval or passage of time Verb -(of a right, privilege, or agreement) become invalid because it is not used, claimed, or renewed; expire -(of a state or activity) fail to be maintained; come to an end -(of an adherent to a particular religion or doctrine) cease to follow the rules and practices of that religion or doctrine -pass gradually into (an inferior state or condition) -revert to (a previous or more familiar style of speaking or behavior)

Conformity /kən-ˈfȯr-mə-tē/

Noun -Adjusting one's behavior or thinking to coincide with a group standard. -process whereby people change their beliefs, attitudes, actions, or perceptions to more closely match those held by groups to which they belong or want to belong or by groups whose approval they desire. -behavior that is the same as the behavior of most other people in a society, group, etc. "religious conformity" -the fact or state of agreeing with or obeying something -correspondence in form, manner, or character; agreement "behaved in conformity with her beliefs" -an act or instance of conforming "her conformity with the latest fashions" -action in accordance with some specified standard or authority "conformity to social custom"

Vicomtesse /ˌvēkômˈtes/

Noun -a French noblewoman corresponding in rank to a viscountess. "among others who came to support this good cause were the French Ambassador and Vicomtesse Luc de la Barre de Nanteuil"

Edifice

Noun -a building, especially a large, imposing one. -a complex system of beliefs

Lilt /lilt/

Noun -a characteristic rising and falling of the voice when speaking; a pleasant gentle accent. "he spoke with a faint but recognizable Irish lilt" -a pleasant, gently swinging rhythm in a song or tune. "the lilt of the Hawaiian music" ARCHAIC•SCOTTISH -a cheerful tune. Verb -speak, sing, or sound with a lilt. "the music lilted and swaggered in a dance rhythm"

Acid /ˈasəd/

Noun -a chemical substance that neutralizes alkalis, dissolves some metals, and turns litmus red; typically, a corrosive or sour-tasting liquid of this kind. "traces of acid" -bitter or cutting remarks or tone of voice. "she was unable to quell the acid in her voice" -something incisive, biting, or sarcastic "a social satire dripping with acid" CHEMISTRY -a molecule or other entity that can donate a proton or accept an electron pair in reactions. INFORMAL -the drug LSD. "she didn't have a clue the candy had acid in it" Adjective -containing acid or having the properties of an acid; having a pH of less than 7. "poor, acid soils" -sharp-tasting or sour. "acid fruit" -sour, sharp, or biting to the taste "an acid flavor" -(of a person's remarks or tone) bitter or cutting. "she was stung into acid defiance" -(of a color) intense or bright. "an acid green" GEOLOGY -(of rock, especially lava) containing a relatively high proportion of silica. "the magma may start off fairly basic and end up at the close of the eruption much more acid" METALLURGY -relating to or denoting steelmaking processes involving silica-rich refractories and slags. "the acid Bessemer process" -sharp, biting, or sour in manner, disposition, or nature "an acid individual" -sharply clear, discerning, or pointed "an acid wit" -piercingly intense and often jarring "acid yellow" -of, relating to, or being an acid; (also) having the reactions or characteristics of an acid "acid soil" -of salts and esters; derived by partial exchange of replaceable hydrogen "acid sodium carbonate NaHCO3" -containing or involving the use of an acid (as in manufacture) "an acid bath" -marked by or resulting from an abnormally high concentration of acid "acid indigestion" -relating to or made by a process in which the furnace is lined with acidic material and an acidic slag is used "acid steel" -rich in silica "acid rocks" KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -having a taste that is sour, bitter, or stinging -harsh or critical in tone "acid remarks" -of, relating to, or like an acid "an acid solution"

Fag-end

Noun -a cigarette butt -an inferior and useless remnant (remaining) of something "the fag ends of rope -a poor or worn-out end -the last part or very end of something

Assemblage /əˈsemblij/

Noun -a collection or gathering of things or people. "a wondrous assemblage of noble knights, cruel temptresses, and impossible loves" -a machine or object made of pieces fitted together. "some vast assemblage of gears and cogs" -a work of art made by grouping found or unrelated objects. -the action of gathering or fitting things together. "the assemblage of electronic image and text databases"

Plague /plāɡ/

Noun -a contagious bacterial disease characterized by fever and delirium, typically with the formation of buboes ( bubonic plague ) and sometimes infection of the lungs ( pneumonic plague ). "an outbreak of plague" -a contagious disease that spreads rapidly and kills many people. -an unusually large number of insects or animals infesting a place and causing damage. "a plague of fleas" -a thing causing trouble or irritation. "staff theft is usually the plague of restaurants" ARCHAIC -used as a curse or an expression of despair or disgust. "a plague on all their houses!" Verb -cause continual trouble or distress to. "he has been plagued by ill health" -pester or harass (someone) continually. "he was plaguing her with questions"

Croak /krōk/

Noun -a deep hoarse sound made by a frog or a crow. "a female frog can pick out a mate's voice from a cacophony of croaks" -a deep hoarse sound resembling that of a frog or crow, especially one made by a person. "Lorton tried to laugh—it came out as a croak" Verb -(of a frog or crow) make a characteristic deep hoarse sound. "the frogs settled in the shade, croaking happily" -(of a person) make a deep hoarse sound when speaking or laughing. ""Thank you," I croaked" ARCHAIC -prophesy evil or misfortune, especially unjustifiably and to the irritation of others. "without croaking, it may be observed that our government is upon a dangerous experiment" INFORMAL -die. "the dog finally croaked in 1987" -kill (someone). "Scissors Haggerty's mob croaked two messengers"

Demeanor /dəˈmēnər/

Noun -outward behavior or bearing. "a quiet, somber demeanor" -a person's appearance and behavior : the way someone seems to be to other people

Heap /hēp/

Noun -a disorderly collection of objects placed haphazardly on top of each other. "a heap of cardboard boxes" -an amount of a particular loose substance. "a heap of gravel" INFORMAL -a large amount or number of. "we have heaps of room" INFORMAL -a disorderly or dilapidated place or vehicle. "they climbed back in the heap and headed home" Adverb INFORMAL•BRITISH -a great deal. ""How do you like Maggie?" "I like you heaps better!"" Verb -put (objects or a loose substance) in a heap. "she heaped logs on the fire" -load something copiously with. "he heaped his plate with rice" -form a heap. "clouds heaped higher in the west" -direct a great deal of praise, abuse, criticism, etc. at (someone or something). "she heaped praise on the public for its generosity as charity donations continued to pour in" -give someone or something (a great deal of praise, abuse, criticism, etc.). "the film has been heaped with praise by critics and audiences alike"

Brood /bro͞od/

Noun -a family of young animals, especially of a bird, produced at one hatching or birth. "a brood of chicks" -bee or wasp larvae. INFORMAL -all of the children in a family. "he was the youngest in a brood of six" - a group having a common nature or origin "the entire brood of chronicle plays" Verb -think deeply about something that makes one unhappy. "he brooded over his need to find a wife" -to think anxiously or gloomily about; ponder "I used to brood these things on my walk" -to dwell gloomily on a subject "brooded over his mistake" -to be in a state of depression "sat brooding in her room" -to sit quietly and thoughtfully; meditate -to think long and anxiously about something "she brooded over her mistake." -(of a bird) to cover (young) with the wings -(of a bird) sit on (eggs) to hatch them. "the male pheasant-tailed jacana takes over once the eggs are laid and broods them" -(of a fish, frog, or invertebrate) hold (developing eggs) within the body. Adjective -(of an animal) kept to be used for breeding. "a brood mare"

Brood /bro͞od/

Noun -a family of young animals, especially of a bird, produced at one hatching or birth. "a brood of chicks" -bee or wasp larvae. INFORMAL -all of the children in a family. "he was the youngest in a brood of six" -the children of a family "takes their brood to church every Sunday" -a group having a common nature or origin "the entire brood of chronicle plays" SIMPLER DEFINITION -a group of young birds (such as chickens) that were all born at the same time -the children in someone's family Verb -think deeply about something that makes one unhappy. "he brooded over his need to find a wife" -(of a bird) sit on (eggs) to hatch them. "the male pheasant-tailed jacana takes over once the eggs are laid and broods them" -(of a fish, frog, or invertebrate) hold (developing eggs) within the body. SIMPLER DEFINITION -to think a lot about something in an unhappy way Adjective -(of an animal) kept to be used for breeding. "a brood mare"

Inhibition /ˌin(h)iˈbiSH(ə)n/

Noun -a feeling that makes one self-conscious and unable to act in a relaxed and natural way. "the children, at first shy, soon lost their inhibitions" PSYCHOLOGY -a voluntary or involuntary restraint on the direct expression of an instinct. -the action of inhibiting, restricting, or hindering a process. -the slowing or prevention of a process, reaction, or function by a particular substance.

Oasis /ōˈāsis/

Noun -a fertile spot in a desert, where water is found. "a country of oases and burning desert sands" -a pleasant or peaceful area or period in the midst of a difficult, troubled, or hectic place or situation. "an oasis of calm in the center of the city" TRADEMARK -a type of rigid foam into which the stems of flowers can be secured in flower arranging. "cover the ball of Oasis with leaves and moss"

Gossamer /ˈɡäsəmər/

Noun -a fine, filmy substance consisting of cobwebs spun by small spiders, seen especially in autumn. -a film of cobwebs floating in air in calm clear weather -used to refer to something very light, thin, and insubstantial or delicate. "in the light from the table lamp, his hair was blond gossamer"

Admonishment /ədˈmäniSHmənt/

Noun -a firm warning or reprimand. "as they were about to leave, he gave them one final admonishment"

Trellis /ˈtrelis/

Noun -a framework of light wooden or metal bars, chiefly used as a support for fruit trees or climbing plants. Verb -provide with or enclose in a trellis. "Bruno's father repurposed concrete telephone poles to trellis the vineyard" -support (a climbing plant) with a trellis. "twine was used to trellis the tomato plants"

Trireme /ˈtrī-ˌrēm/

Noun -a galley, developed by the ancient Greeks as a warship, with three banks of oars on each side

Apparition /ˌapəˈriSH(ə)n/

Noun -a ghost or ghostlike image of a person. "a headless apparition" -the appearance of something remarkable or unexpected, typically an image of this type. "twentieth-century apparitions of the Virgin"

Apparition /ˌapəˈriSH(ə)n/

Noun -a ghost or ghostlike image of a person. "a headless apparition" -the appearance of something remarkable or unexpected, typically an image of this type. "twentieth-century apparitions of the Virgin" -is an unusual or unexpected sight : phenomenon -sight; phenomenon "strange apparitions in the sky" -a ghostly figure "reported seeing ghostly apparitions in the old house" -the act of becoming visible; appearance "the apparition of sunlight through the window"

Phantom /ˈfan(t)əm/

Noun -a ghost. "a phantom who haunts lonely roads" -a figment of the imagination. "he tried to clear the phantoms from his head and grasp reality" -denoting a financial arrangement or transaction that has been invented for fraudulent purposes but that does not really exist. "he diverted an estimated $1,500,000 into "phantom" bank accounts" -the soul of a dead person thought of as living in an unseen world or as appearing to living people; ghost "the book is about the phantoms that are said to haunt the nation's cemeteries." -something that is not real and exists only in a person's mind "the crisis is merely a phantom made up by the media." -something that is hard to see or achieve -something apparent to sense but with no substantial existence; apparition -something elusive or visionary -an object of continual dread or abhorrence the phantom of disease and want -something existing in appearance only -a representation of something abstract, ideal, or incorporeal "she was a phantom of delight"

Rendezvous /ˈrändəˌvo͞o,ˈrändāˌvo͞o/

Noun -a meeting at an agreed time and place, typically between two people. "Edward turned up late for their rendezvous" -a place used for a rendezvous. "you'd be welcome to use this place as a rendezvous" -a place, typically a bar or restaurant, that is used as a popular meeting place. Verb -meet at an agreed time and place. "I rendezvoused with Bea as planned"

Ensemble /änˈsämbəl/

Noun -a group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together. "a Bulgarian folk ensemble" -a scene or passage written for performance by a whole cast, choir, or group of instruments. "Cherubini's numbers, with solos and ensembles intermingled, have a freedom and originality" -the coordination between performers executing an ensemble passage. "a high level of tuning and ensemble is guaranteed" -a group of items viewed as a whole rather than individually. "the buildings in the square present a charming provincial ensemble" -a set of clothes chosen to harmonize when worn together. -PHYSICS a group of similar systems, or different states of the same system, often considered statistically. "we would have to adopt a picture in which there is an ensemble of all possible universes with some probability distribution"

Badjer /ˈbajər/

Noun -a heavily built omnivorous nocturnal mammal of the weasel family, typically having a gray and black coat. INFORMAL•US -a native of Wisconsin. Verb -repeatedly ask (someone) to do something; pester. "Tom had finally badgered her into going"

Pitfall

Noun -a hidden or unsuspected danger pr difficulty

Vassal /ˈvasəl/

Noun -a holder of land by feudal tenure on conditions of homage and allegiance. -a person or country in a subordinate position to another. "a much stronger nation can also turn a weaker one into a vassal state" -a person in the past who received protection and land from a lord in return for loyalty and service

Pun

Noun -a joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word or the fact that there are words that sound alike but have different meanings. Verb -make a joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word

Bow /bō/

Noun -a knot tied with two loops and two loose ends, used especially for tying shoelaces and decorative ribbons. "a girl with long hair tied back in a bow" -a decorative ribbon tied in a bow. -a weapon for shooting arrows, typically made of a curved piece of wood whose ends are joined by a taut string. -a bowman. -a long, partially curved rod with horsehair stretched along its length, used for playing the violin and other stringed instruments. -single passage of a bow over the strings of a violin or other stringed instrument. -a curved stroke forming part of a letter (e.g. b, p ). -a metal ring forming the handle of a key or pair of scissors. NORTH AMERICAN -a side piece or lens frame of a pair of glasses. Verb -play (a stringed instrument or music) using a bow. "the techniques by which the pieces were bowed"

Banquet /ˈbaNGkwit/

Noun -a large meal for many people; a feast Verb -entertain with a banquet. "ambassadors were fabulously banqueted and loaded with gifts" -to entertain with a fancy meal "banqueted the returning troops at the military base"

Forelock /ˈfôrˌläk/

Noun -a lock of hair growing just above the forehead. -a piece of hair growing from the front of the head -the part of the mane of a horse or similar animal, which grows from the poll and hangs down over the forehead.

Rut /rət/

Noun -a long deep track made by the repeated passage of the wheels of vehicles. "a stretch of road made impassable by ruts, holes, or waterlogging" -a habit or pattern of behavior that has become dull and unproductive but is hard to change. "the administration was stuck in a rut and was losing its direction" -a situation or way of behaving that does not change Noun (2) -an annual period of sexual activity in deer and some other mammals, during which the males fight each other for access to the females. "a moose in rut" Verb -(of a deer or other mammal) engage in the rut or annual period of sexual activity. "researchers say the deer are rutting earlier" DEROGATORY -engage in promiscuous or indiscriminate sexual activity. "if you want to smoke and cuss and rut and get completely drunk, then go for it"

Tress /tres/

Noun -a long lock of a woman's hair. "she was tugging a comb through her long tresses" Noun ARCHAIC -arrange (a person's hair) into long locks. -a plait of hair; braid

Tunic /ˈt(y)o͞onik/

Noun -a loose garment, typically sleeveless and reaching to the wearer's knees, as worn in ancient Greece and Rome. -a loose, thigh-length garment, worn typically by women over a skirt or trousers. "A-line tunic tops" -a close-fitting short coat as part of a uniform, especially a police or military uniform. BIOLOGY•ANATOMY -an integument or membrane enclosing or lining an organ or part. BOTANY -any of the concentric layers of a plant bulb, e.g. an onion. ZOOLOGY -the rubbery outer coat of a sea squirt.

Guillotine /ˈɡiləˌtēn,ˈɡēəˌtēn/

Noun -a machine with a heavy blade sliding vertically in grooves, used for beheading people. -a device for cutting that incorporates a descending or sliding blade, used typically for cutting paper, card, or sheet metal. -a surgical instrument with a sliding blade used typically for the removal of the tonsils. BRITISH -(in parliament) a procedure used to prevent delay in the discussion of a legislative bill by fixing times at which various parts of it must be voted on. "a guillotine motion" Verb -execute (someone) by guillotine. BRITISH -(in parliament) end discussion by applying a guillotine to (a bill or debate).

Bough /bou/

Noun -a main branch of a tree. "apple boughs laden with blossom" -a branch of a tree, especially one of the larger or main branches. "the monkey went up the bough and stayed there for an hour."

Dandy /ˈdandē/

Noun -a man unduly devoted to style, neatness, and fashion in dress and appearance. "his floppy handkerchiefs and antique cufflinks gave him the look of a dandy" DATED•INFORMAL -an excellent thing of its kind. "this umbrella is a dandy" -a man who gives exaggerated attention to personal appearance -something excellent in its class "a dandy of a game" Adjective -of, relating to, or suggestive of a man who gives exaggerated attention to personal appearance; foppish -very good; first-rate "a dandy place to stay"

Sabel /ˈsābəl/

Noun -a marten with a short tail and dark brown fur, native to Japan and Siberia and valued for its fur. -the fur of the sable. Adjective LITERARY • HERALDRY -black. "the sable blackness of her hair" ARCHAIC -mourning garments. -a large African antelope with long curved horns, the male of which has a black coat and the female a russet coat, both having a white belly.

Rascal /ˈrask(ə)l/

Noun -a mischievous or cheeky person, especially a child or man (typically used in an affectionate way). "a lovable rascal" -a mean, unprincipled, or dishonest person -a mischievous person or animal

Maneuver /məˈno͞ovər/

Noun -a movement or series of moves requiring skill and care. "spectacular jumps and other daring maneuvers" -a carefully planned scheme or action, especially one involving deception. "shady financial maneuvers" -the fact or process of taking carefully planned or deceptive action. "the economic policy provided no room for maneuver" -a large-scale military exercise of troops, warships, and other forces. "the Russian vessel was on maneuvers" Verb -move skillfully or carefully. "the truck was unable to maneuver comfortably in the narrow street" -carefully guide or manipulate (someone or something) in order to achieve an end. "they were maneuvering him into a betrayal of his countryman" -carefully manipulate a situation to achieve an end. "two decades of political maneuvering"

Ditch /diCH/

Noun -a narrow channel dug in the ground, typically used for drainage alongside a road or the edge of a field. "their car went out of control and plunged into a ditch" Verb -provide with ditches. "he was praised for ditching the coastal areas" -make or repair ditches. "we ditched around our tents" INFORMAL -get rid of or give up. "plans for the road were ditched following a public inquiry" -end a relationship with (someone) peremptorily; abandon. "she ditched her husband to marry the window cleaner" -to get rid of; discard "ditch an old car" -to end association with; leave "ditched school" NORTH AMERICAN -be truant from (school or another obligation). "maybe she could ditch school and run away" -bring (an aircraft) down on water in an emergency. "he was picked up by a frigate after ditching his plane in the Mediterranean" -(of an aircraft) make a forced landing on water. "the aircraft was obliged to ditch in the sea off the North African coast" US -derail (a train). AVIATION -to make a forced landing of (an airplane) on water "successfully ditched the plane"

Conglomerate /kənˈɡlämərət/

Noun -a number of different things or parts that are put or grouped together to form a whole but remain distinct entities. "the Earth is a specialized conglomerate of organisms" -a large corporation formed by the merging of separate and diverse firms. "a media conglomerate" -a widely diversified corporation "an international conglomerate of some 350 businesses" GEOLOGY -a coarse-grained sedimentary rock composed of rounded fragments (> 2 mm) within a matrix of finer grained material. "the sediments vary from coarse conglomerate to fine silt and clay" Adjective -relating to a conglomerate, especially a large corporation. "conglomerate businesses" -made up of parts from various sources or of various kinds "the conglomerate peoples of New England" Verb -gather together into a compact mass. "atoms that conglomerate at the center" -to gather into a mass or coherent whole "infinite numbers of dull people conglomerated round her" -form a conglomerate by merging diverse businesses. "the urge to conglomerate has long been out of fashion in American boardrooms"

Quirk

Noun -a peculiar behavioral habit; peculiar way of acting "his distaste for travel is an endearing quirk" -a strange chance or occurrence "a strange quirk of fate had led her to working for Nathan" -a sudden twist, turn, or curve "wry humor put a slight quirk in his mouth"

Musing /ˈmyo͞oziNG/

Noun -a period of reflection or thought. "his musings were interrupted by the sound of the telephone" -meditation "my musing and writings on this issue do not come from the groves of academe." -your thoughts or comments on something you have been thinking about carefully and for a long time "his musings on everything from sex to religion are profound."

Recession /rəˈseSH(ə)n/

Noun -a period of temporary economic decline during which trade and industrial activity are reduced, generally identified by a fall in GDP in two successive quarters. "the country is in the depths of a recession" ASTRONOMY -the action of receding; motion away from an observer; withdrawal -a departing procession (as of clergy and choir at the end of a church service) -the act of ceding back to a former possessor -slowdown in a nation's economy -refers to a significant decline in general economic activity in a designated region.

Sensualist /ˈsen(t)SH(o͞o)ələst/

Noun -a person devoted to physical, especially sexual, pleasure. "a dedicated sensualist" -persistent or excessive pursuit of sensual pleasures and interests

Chauffeur /SHōˈfər,ˈSHōfər/

Noun -a person employed to drive a private or rented automobile. "a chauffeur-driven limousine" Verb -drive (a car or a passenger in a car), typically as part of one's job. "she insisted on being chauffeured around"

Novice /ˈnävəs/

Noun -a person new to or inexperienced in a field or situation. "he was a complete novice in foreign affairs" -beginner -a person who has entered a religious order and is under probation, before taking vows. -an animal, especially a racehorse, that has not yet won a major prize or reached a level of performance to qualify for important events.

Harbinger /ˈhärbənjər/

Noun -a person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another. "witch hazels are the harbingers of spring" -a forerunner of something. "these works were not yet opera but they were the most important harbinger of opera"

Precursor /prēˈkərsər/

Noun -a person or thing that comes before another of the same kind; a forerunner. "a three-stringed precursor of the violin" -one that precedes and indicates the approach of another -predecessor -a substance from which another is formed, especially by metabolic reaction. "pepsinogen is the inactive precursor of pepsin" -a substance, cell, or cellular component from which another substance, cell, or cellular component is formed

Subject

Noun -a person or thing that is being discussed, described, or dealt with. -a branch of knowledge studied or taught in a school, college, or university Adjective -likely or prone to be affected by (a particular condition or occurrence, typically an unwelcome or unpleasant one) -dependent or conditional upon Adverb -conditionally upon Verb -cause of force to undergo (a particular experience of form of treatment) -bring (a person or country) under one's control or jurisdiction, typically by using force

Menace /ˈmenəs/

Noun -a person or thing that is likely to cause harm; a threat or danger. "a new initiative aimed at beating the menace of drugs" -a threatening quality, tone, or atmosphere. "he spoke the words with a hint of menace" INFORMAL -a person or thing that causes trouble or annoyance. "his kid sister, that chatty little menace, had become the knockout of the neighborhood" Verb -threaten, especially in a malignant or hostile manner. "Africa's elephants are still menaced by poaching"

Enigma /iˈniɡmə/

Noun -a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand. "Madeleine was still an enigma to him"

Hanger-on /ˈˌhaNGər ˈˌän/

Noun -a person who associates with another person or a group in a sycophantic manner or for the purpose of gaining some personal advantage. "he was a hanger-on who used to come around and drink with Father" -one that hangs around a person, place, or institution especially for personal gain -a person who tries to be friendly and spend time with rich and important people, especially to get an advantage: "wherever there is royalty, there are always hangers-on." i

Courtier /ˈkôrdēər,ˈkôrCHər/

Noun -a person who attends a royal court as a companion or adviser to the king or queen. -one in attendance at a royal court -one who practices flattery

Incarnation /ˌinkärˈnāSH(ə)n/

Noun -a person who embodies in the flesh a deity, spirit, or abstract quality. "Rama was Vishnu's incarnation on earth" -(in Christian theology) the embodiment of God the Son in human flesh as Jesus Christ. -(with reference to reincarnation) one of a series of lifetimes that a person spends on earth. "in my next incarnation, I'd like to be the Secretary of Fun" -the form in which a person spends an incarnation. "the bar has gone through several incarnations"

Charlatan /ˈshär-lə-tən/

Noun -a person who falsely pretends to know or be something in order to deceive people; quack -one making usually showy pretenses to knowledge or ability; fraud, faker "a charlatan willing to do and say virtually anything to remain in the spotlight"

Prude /pro͞od/

Noun -a person who is or claims to be easily shocked by matters relating to sex or nudity. "the sex was so ambiguous and romantic that none but a prude could find it objectionable" -a person who is easily shocked or offended by things that do not shock or offend other people -a person who is excessively or priggishly attentive to propriety or decorum -(especially of) a woman who shows or affects extreme modesty

Prude /pro͞od/

Noun -a person who is or claims to be easily shocked by matters relating to sex or nudity. "the sex was so ambiguous and romantic that none but a prude could find it objectionable" -a person who is excessively or priggishly attentive to propriety or decorum; (especially of)a woman who shows or affects extreme modesty

Culprit

Noun -a person who is responsible for a crime or other misdeed. -a person who has committed a crime or is guilty of some misconduct; an offender -the cause of a problem or defect

Correspondent

Noun -a person who writes letters to a person or a newspaper, especially on a regular basis. -a person employed to report for a newspaper or broadcasting organization, typically on a particular subject or from a particular country. -a person employed by a news organization to gather, report, or contribute news, articles, etc., regularly from a distant place

Confidant or confidante /ˈkänfəˌdant,ˈkänfəˌdänt/

Noun -a person with whom one shares a secret or private matter, trusting them not to repeat it to others. "a close confidante of the princess" -(especially) one who is a woman

Demise /dəˈmīz/

Noun -a person's death. "Mr. Grisenthwaite's tragic demise" -the end or failure of an enterprise or institution. "the demise of industry" LAW -conveyance or transfer of property or a title by demising. Verb LAW -convey or grant (an estate) by will or lease. "the manor and the mill were demised for twenty-one-year terms" -transmit (a sovereign's title) by death or abdication.

Temparament /ˈtemp(ə)rəmənt/

Noun -a person's or animal's nature, especially as it permanently affects their behavior. "she had an artistic temperament" -the tendency to behave angrily or emotionally. "he had begun to show signs of temperament" -the adjustment of intervals in tuning a piano or other musical instrument so as to fit the scale for use in different keys; in equal temperament, the octave consists of twelve equal semitones. "this temperament became standard tuning for all the new organs" -extremely high sensibility; (especially of an) excessive sensitiveness or irritability -is an old word (it dates to the 15th century) with multiple meanings, but in modern use it typically refers to the usual attitude, mood, or behavior of a person or an animal.

Libertine /ˈlibərˌtēn/

Noun -a person, especially a man, who behaves without moral principles or a sense of responsibility, especially in sexual matters. "his image as an unbridled libertine is a total myth" -a person who rejects accepted opinions in matters of religion; a freethinker. Adjective -characterized by a disregard of morality, especially in sexual matters. "his more libertine impulses" -freethinking in matters of religion.

Caricature /ˈkerikəCHər,ˈkerikəˌCHo͝or/

Noun -a picture, description, or imitation of a person in which certain striking characteristics are exaggerated in order to create a comic or grotesque effect. "there are elements of caricature in the portrayal of the hero" -a ludicrous or grotesque version of someone or something. "he looked like a caricature of his normal self" Verb -make or give a comically or grotesquely exaggerated representation of (someone or something). "he was caricatured on the cover of TV Guide"

Veil /vāl/

Noun -a piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face. "a white bridal veil" -a piece of fabric forming part of a nun's headdress, resting on the head and shoulders. -(in Jewish antiquity) the piece of precious cloth separating the sanctuary from the body of the Temple or the Tabernacle. -a thing that serves to cover, conceal, or disguise. "a veil of mist and snow lay over the landscape" BOTANY -a membrane which is attached to the immature fruiting body of some toadstools and ruptures in the course of development, either ( universal veil ) enclosing the whole fruiting body or ( partial veil ) joining the edges of the cap to the stalk. Verb -cover with a veil. "she veiled her face" -cover, conceal, or disguise. "cold mists veiled the mountain peaks"

Crumb /krəm/

Noun -a small fragment of bread, cake, or cracker. "she brushed some cake crumbs off her dress" -the soft inner part of a loaf of bread. "a morsel of crumb will often tempt a chub" US -a dessert topping made of brown sugar, butter, flour, and spices and crumbled over a pie or cake. "apple crumb pie" -a very small amount of something. "the Budget provided few crumbs of comfort" -an unfair and inadequate share of something large. "a multi-billion dollar franchise and the family of the creator doesn't even get crumbs from the table" DEROGATORY•INFORMAL -an objectionable or contemptible person. "he's an absolute crumb" -granulated rubber, made from recycled tires. Verb -cover (food) with breadcrumbs. "while the sweet potato is cooking, crumb the fish"

Hook /ho͝ok/

Noun -a piece of metal or other material, curved or bent back at an angle, for catching hold of or hanging things on. "a picture hook" -a bent piece of metal, typically barbed and baited, for catching fish. -a cradle on which a phone receiver rests. -a thing designed to catch people's attention. "companies are looking for a sales hook" -a chorus or repeated instrumental passage in a piece of popular music that gives it immediate appeal and makes it easy to remember. "strong, funky vocals with a hook that gets into your head" -a curved cutting instrument, especially as used for reaping or shearing. -a short swinging punch made with the elbow bent, especially in boxing. "a perfectly timed right hook to the chin" GOLF -a stroke that makes the ball deviate in flight in the direction of the follow-through (from right to left for a right-handed player), typically inadvertently. -a curved stroke in handwriting. MUSIC -an added stroke transverse to the stem in the symbol for an eighth note or other note. -a curved promontory or sand spit. Verb -attach or fasten with a hook or hooks. "the truck had a red lamp hooked to its tailgate" -bend or be bent into the shape of a hook so as to fasten around or to an object. "he hooked his thumbs in his belt" -catch with a hook. "he hooked a 24-lb pike" INFORMAL•ARCHAIC -steal. "a maid hooked one of her mistress's dresses" INFORMAL -attract and hold the attention of; captivate. "I was hooked by John's radical zeal" GOLF -strike (the ball) or play (a stroke) so that the ball deviates in the direction of the follow-through, typically inadvertently. BOXING -punch one's opponent with the elbow bent. "McKenzie switched his attack downstairs, hooking to the ribs" HOCKEY -use one's stick to restrain (an opponent), for which a penalty may be assessed. "the defenseman hooked him from behind" RUGBY -push (the ball) backward with the foot from the front line in a scrum.

Pilgrimage /ˈpilɡrəmij/

Noun -a pilgrim's journey. "he wanted to go on a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela" -a journey to a place associated with someone or something well known or respected. "making a pilgrimage to the famous racing circuit" LITERARY -life viewed as a journey. "life's pilgrimage" -journey to a holy place -journey to a special or unusual place Verb -go on a pilgrimage. "thousands pilgrimage there every year"

Oar /ôr/

Noun -a pole with a flat blade, pivoting in an oar lock, used to row or steer a boat through the water. "she pulled hard on the oars" -a rower. "I was stroke oar and John was in the bow" Verb -row; propel with or as with oars. "oaring the sea like madmen"

Wail /wāl/

Noun -a prolonged high-pitched cry of pain, grief, or anger. "Christopher let out a wail" -a sound resembling a prolonged high-pitched cry. "the wail of an air-raid siren" Verb -give a cry of pain, grief, or anger. "Tina ran off wailing" -make a sound resembling a wail. "the wind wailed and buffeted the timber structure" LITERARY -manifest or feel deep sorrow for; lament. "she wailed her wretched life" -to express dissatisfaction plaintively; complain

Courtesan /ˈkȯr-tə-zən/

Noun -a prostitute with a courtly, wealthy, or upper-class clientele -a woman who has sex with rich or important men in exchange for money; a prostitute who has sex with wealthy and powerful men.

Rostrum /ˈrästrəm/

Noun -a raised platform on which a person stands to make a public speech, receive an award or medal, play music, or conduct an orchestra. "speaker after speaker stepped up to the rostrum" -a platform for supporting a movie or television camera. "a rostrum camera" ZOOLOGY -a beaklike projection, especially a stiff snout or anterior prolongation of the head in an insect, crustacean, or cetacean. "these beetles are very easily recognized by the rostrum or beak" -an ancient Roman platform for public orators -a stage for public speaking -a raised platform on a stage -the curved end of a ship's prow (especially) the beak of a war galley -a bodily part or process suggesting a bird's bill: such as the beak, snout, or proboscis of any of various insects or arachnids -a small raised platform on a stage

Pretext /ˈprēˌtekst/

Noun -a reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason. "the rebels had the perfect pretext for making their move" -a purpose or motive alleged or an appearance assumed in order to cloak the real intention or state of affairs

Diminution /ˌdiməˈn(y)o͞oSH(ə)n/

Noun -a reduction in the size, extent, or importance of something. "a permanent diminution in value" MUSIC -the shortening of the time values of notes in a melodic part.

Envoy

Noun -a representative or messenger (as of a government) -a messenger or representative, especially one on a diplomatic mission -a minister plenipotentiary, ranking below ambassador and above chargé d'affaires

Bypass /ˈbīˌpas/

Noun -a road passing around a town or its center to provide an alternative route for through traffic. -a secondary channel, pipe, or connection to allow a flow when the main one is closed or blocked. -the alternative channel created during a bypass operation. "I had a bypass last year so have been building up my strength" -a surgical operation in which an alternative channel is created, especially to improve blood flow to the heart when a coronary artery is blocked. "my granddad is well into his eighties and had a bypass" Verb -go past or around. "bypass the farm and continue to the road" -provide (a town) with a route diverting traffic from its center. "the town has been bypassed" -to avoid something by going around it "we took the road that bypasses the town." -avoid or circumvent (an obstacle or problem). "a manager might bypass formal channels of communication" -to neglect or ignore usually intentionally -circumvent "attempting to bypass the law"

Brute /bro͞ot/

Noun -a savagely violent person or animal. "he was a cold-blooded brute" INFORMAL -a cruel or insensitive person. "what an unfeeling little brute you are" -something awkward, difficult, or unpleasant. "a great brute of a machine" -an animal as opposed to a human being. "we, unlike dumb brutes, can reflect upon our impulses" Adjective -characterized by an absence of reasoning or intelligence. "a brute struggle for social superiority" -merely physical. "we achieve little by brute force" -fundamental, inescapable, and unpleasant. "the brute necessities of basic subsistence"

Effigy /ˈefijē/

Noun -a sculpture or model of a person. "coins bearing the effigy of Maria Theresa of Austria" -a roughly made model of a particular person, made in order to be damaged or destroyed as a protest or expression of anger. "the senator was burned in effigy" -an image or representation especially of a person -(especially) a crude figure representing a hated person

Remnant

Noun -a small remaining quantity of something. -a surviving trace. "a remnant of the past" -a piece of cloth or carpeting left when the greater part has been used or sold. Adjective -remaining

Insurrection /ˌinsəˈrekSH(ə)n/

Noun -a violent uprising against an authority or government. "the insurrection was savagely put down" -a usually violent attempt to take control of a government "he led an armed insurrection [=rebellion, uprising] against the elected government." -an act or instance of revolting against civil authority or an established government

Paradox /ˈperəˌdäks/

Noun -a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true. "in a paradox, he has discovered that stepping back from his job has increased the rewards he gleans from it" -a statement or proposition that, despite sound (or apparently sound) reasoning from acceptable premises, leads to a conclusion that seems senseless, logically unacceptable, or self-contradictory. "a potentially serious conflict between quantum mechanics and the general theory of relativity known as the information paradox" -a situation, person, or thing that combines contradictory features or qualities. "the mingling of deciduous trees with elements of desert flora forms a fascinating ecological paradox" -a statement that is seemingly contradictory or opposed to common sense and yet is perhaps true KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -a statement that seems to say opposite things and yet is perhaps true -a person or thing having qualities that seem to be opposite

Paradox /ˈperəˌdäks/

Noun -a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true. "in a paradox, he has discovered that stepping back from his job has increased the rewards he gleans from it" -a statement or proposition that, despite sound (or apparently sound) reasoning from acceptable premises, leads to a conclusion that seems senseless, logically unacceptable, or self-contradictory. "a potentially serious conflict between quantum mechanics and the general theory of relativity known as the information paradox" -a situation, person, or thing that combines contradictory features or qualities. "the mingling of deciduous trees with elements of desert flora forms a fascinating ecological paradox" -one (such as a person, situation, or action) having seemingly contradictory qualities or phases -a statement that is seemingly contradictory or opposed to common sense and yet is perhaps true -a self-contradictory statement that at first seems true -an argument that apparently derives self-contradictory conclusions by valid deduction from acceptable premises -a tenet contrary to received opinion KIDS DEFINITION -a statement that seems to say opposite things and yet is perhaps true -a person or thing having qualities that seem to be opposite

Deluge /ˈdelyo͞o(d)ZH/

Noun -a severe flood. "this may be the worst deluge in living memory" -the biblical Flood (recorded in Genesis 6-8). noun: Deluge; noun: the Deluge "the world appeared to be emerging still from the waters of the Deluge" -a heavy fall of rain. "a deluge of rain hit the plains" -a great quantity of something arriving at the same time. "a deluge of complaints" Verb -inundate with a great quantity of something. "he has been deluged with offers of work" -flood. "the country was deluged with rain"

Loop /lo͞op/

Noun -a shape produced by a curve that bends around and crosses itself. "make a loop in the twine" -a length of thread, rope, or similar material, doubled or crossing itself, used as a fastening or handle. "a loop of rope tied around their wrists" HANDWRITING -a curved stroke forming part of a letter (e.g. b, p ). AVIATION -a maneuver in which an aircraft describes a vertical circle in the air. SKATING -a maneuver describing a curve that crosses itself, made on a single edge. -a structure, series, or process, the end of which is connected to the beginning. "a feedback loop" AUDIO•VIDEO -an endless strip of tape or film allowing continuous repetition. TECHNOLOGY -a complete circuit for an electric current. COMPUTING -a programmed sequence of instructions that is repeated until or while a particular condition is satisfied. -a continuously repeated segment of music, dialogue, or images "a drum loop" -a select well-informed inner circle that is influential in decision making "out of the policy loop" Verb -form (something) into a loop or loops; encircle. "she looped her arms around his neck" -follow a course that forms a loop or loops. "the canal loops for two miles through the city" AUDIO•VIDEO•TECHNOLOGY -put into or execute a loop of tape, film, or computing instructions. "the program loops back on reaching a RETURN statement" -circle an aircraft vertically in the air.

Berth /bərTH/

Noun -a ship's allotted place at a wharf or dock. "the vessel had left its berth" -a fixed bed or bunk on a ship, train, or other means of transport. "I'll sleep in the upper berth" INFORMAL -(often in a sports context) a situation or position in an organization or event. "today's victory clinched a berth for the Orioles in the playoffs" NAUTICAL -sufficient distance for maneuvering a ship "keep a clear berth of the shoals." -an amount of distance maintained for safety "give the fire a wide berth" -the place where a ship lies when at anchor or at a wharf "was docked at her usual berth" -a space for an automotive vehicle at rest "a truck-loading berth" -a place to sleep on a ship, train, etc. -a place in the water near the shore where a ship stops and stays -a place or position on a team Verb -moor (a ship) in its allotted place. "these modern ships can almost berth themselves" -(of a ship) dock. "the Dutch freighter berthed at the Brooklyn docks" -(of a passenger ship) provide a sleeping place for (someone).

Anecdote

Noun -a short and amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person -an account regarded as unreliable or hearsay -the depiction of a minor narrative incident in a painting

Jaunt (jönt)

Noun -a short excursion or journey for pleasure "her little jaunt in France was over" Verb -go on a short excursion or journey for pleasure "they went jaunting trough Ireland"

Passage

Noun -a short extract from a book or other printed material "he picked up the newspaper and read the passage again" -a part of a written work or piece of music -a section of text -there are numerous meanings for this word

Excursion /ikˈskərZHən/

Noun -a short journey or trip, especially one engaged in as a leisure activity. "an excursion to Mount Etna" -a going out or forth; expedition -a usually brief pleasure trip -a trip at special reduced rates -a deviation from a regular pattern, path, or level of operation. "the firm's disastrous excursion into the US electrical market" ARCHAIC -deviation from a direct, definite, or proper course; a digression. "pardon this long excursion on this subject" TECHNICAL -an instance of the movement of something along a path or through an angle. "large excursions of the hip and knee joint" ARCHAIC -a military sortie.

Fright /frīt/

Noun -a sudden intense feeling of fear. "I jumped up in fright" -an experience that causes one to feel sudden intense fear. "she's had a nasty fright" -fear excited by sudden danger : ALARM "gave me quite a fright" -something strange, ugly, or shocking KIDS DEFINITION -sudden terror : great fear -something that frightens or is ugly or shocking "you look a fright! What happened?" Verb ARCHAIC -frighten; to alarm suddenly "come, be comforted, he shan't fright you"

Recess /ˈrēˌses,rəˈses/

Noun -a small space created by building part of a wall further back from the rest. "a table set into a recess" -a hollow space inside something. "the concrete block has a recess in its base" -a remote, secluded, or secret place. "the recesses of the silent pine forest" -a period of time when the proceedings of a parliament, committee, court of law, or other official body are temporarily suspended. "talks resumed after a month's recess" NORTH AMERICAN -a break between school classes. "the mid-morning recess" Verb -attach (a fixture) by setting it back into the wall or surface to which it is fixed. "the lights are going to be recessed into the ceiling" NORTH AMERICAN -(of formal proceedings) be temporarily suspended. "the talks recessed at 2:15" -suspend (such proceedings) temporarily. "the trial was recessed for the weekend" -(of an official body) suspend its proceedings for a period of time. "Parliament recessed for the summer on Tuesday"

Scepter /ˈsep-tər/

Noun -a staff or baton borne by a sovereign as an emblem of authority -royal or imperial authority; sovereignty Verb -to invest with the scepter in token of royal authority KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -a rod carried by a ruler as a sign of authority "a royal scepter"

Cheapskate (informal)

Noun -a stingy person "she told him he was a cheapskate" -one who tries to avoid paying a fair share of costs or expenses -a person who does not like to spend money

Repertoire /ˈrepə(r)ˌtwär/

Noun -a stock of plays, dances, or pieces that a company or a performer knows or is prepared to perform. -the whole body of items which are regularly performed. "the mainstream concert repertoire" -a stock of skills or types of behavior that a person habitually uses. "his repertoire of threats, stares, and denigratory gestures"

Threshold /ˈTHreSHˌ(h)ōld/

Noun -a strip of wood, metal, or stone forming the bottom of a doorway and crossed in entering a house or room. "he stood on the threshold of Sheila's bedroom" -a point of entry or beginning. "she was on the threshold of a dazzling career" -the beginning of an airport runway on which an aircraft is attempting to land. -the magnitude or intensity that must be exceeded for a certain reaction, phenomenon, result, or condition to occur or be manifested. "nothing happens until the signal passes the threshold" -the maximum level of radiation or a concentration of a substance considered to be acceptable or safe. "their water would meet the safety threshold of 50 milligrams of nitrates per liter" -a limit below which a stimulus causes no reaction. "everyone has a different pain threshold" -a level, rate, or amount at which something comes into effect. "the tax threshold has risen to $10,492 of adjusted gross income" -gate, door -end, boundary; (specifically) the end of a runway -the place or point of entering or beginning; outset "on the threshold of a new age"

Aversion /əˈvərZHən/

Noun -a strong dislike or disinclination. "he had a deep-seated aversion to most forms of exercise" -a person or thing that arouses strong feelings of dislike. "my dog's pet aversion is visitors, particularly males" -a feeling of repugnance toward something with a desire to avoid or turn from it "regards drunkenness with aversion" -a settled dislike; antipathy "expressed an aversion to parties" -a tendency to extinguish a behavior or to avoid a thing or situation and especially a usually pleasurable one because it is or has been associated with a noxious stimulus -an object of dislike or aversion "of all things inconstancy is my aversion." OBSOLETE -the act of turning away KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -a strong dislike -something strongly disliked

Blunder

Noun -a stupid or careless mistake. Verb -make a stupid or careless mistake; act or speak clumsily -move clumsily or as if unable to see "we were blundering around in the darkness"

Boot /bo͞ot/

Noun -a sturdy item of footwear covering the foot, the ankle, and sometimes the leg below the knee. -a covering to protect the lower part of a horse's leg. NORTH AMERICAN -a clamp placed by the police on the wheel of an unlawfully parked vehicle to make it immobile. HISTORICAL -an instrument of torture encasing and crushing the foot. INFORMAL -a hard kick. "I got a boot in the stomach" BRITISH -an enclosed space at the back of a car for carrying luggage or other goods; a trunk. -the process of starting a computer and putting it into a state of readiness for operation. "a boot disk" INFORMAL•US -a navy or marine recruit. -an instrument of torture used to crush the leg and foot -a navy or marine corps recruit undergoing basic training BRITISH -an automobile trunk -summary dismissal —used with the "gave him the boot" -momentary pleasure or enjoyment; bang "got a big boot out of the joke" -additional money or property received to make up the difference in an exchange of business or investment property that is of like kind but unequal in value Verb -kick (something) hard in a specified direction. "he ended up booting the ball into the stands" -start (a computer) and put it into a state of readiness for operation. "when I booted the computer I heard a extremely loud rattle" -(of a computer) be started and put into a state of readiness for operation. "the laptop boots up in 14 seconds flat" US -place a Denver boot on (an illegally parked car). "once a car is booted, the owner must pay all fines plus a fee to have the boot removed"

Debacle /dāˈbäk(ə)l,dəˈbäk(ə)l/

Noun -a sudden and ignominious failure; a fiasco. "the economic debacle that became known as the Great Depression" -a great disaster -a complete failure; fiasco -a tumultuous breakup of ice in a river -a violent disruption (as of an army) : ROUT

Gust /ˈgəst/

Noun -a sudden brief rush of wind -a sudden outburst "surge a gust of emotion." -a brief, strong rush of wind. -a burst of something such as rain, sound, or emotion. "gusts of rain lashed down the narrow alleys" Verb -(of the wind) blow in gusts. "the wind was gusting through the branches of the tree"

Whim

Noun -a sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained "she bought it on a whim"

Thrill /THril/

Noun -a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure. "the thrill of jumping out of an airplane" -an experience that produces a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure. "to ride a winner is always a thrill" -a wave or nervous tremor of emotion or sensation. "a thrill of excitement ran through her" MEDICINE -a vibratory movement or resonance heard through a stethoscope. ARCHAIC -a throb or pulsation. Verb -cause (someone) to have a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure. "his kiss thrilled and excited her" -experience a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure. "thrill to the magic of the world's greatest guitarist" -(of an emotion or sensation) pass with a nervous tremor. "the shock of alarm thrilled through her" LITERARY -quiver or throb.

Bureaucracy /byo͝oˈräkrəsē/

Noun -a system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives. -a state or organization governed or managed as a bureaucracy. -the officials in a bureaucracy, considered as a group or hierarchy. -excessively complicated administrative procedure, seen as characteristic of bureaucracy. "the unnecessary bureaucracy in local government" -a body of nonelected government officials -an administrative policy-making group -government characterized by specialization of functions, adherence to fixed rules, and a hierarchy of authority -a system of administration marked by officialism, red tape, and proliferation -refer to an entire body of unelected government officials or to the problematic system (often filled with red tape) that may result from administration by bureaucrats.

Proclivity /prōˈklivədē,prəˈklivədē/

Noun -a tendency to choose or do something regularly; an inclination or predisposition toward a particular thing. "a proclivity for hard work" -a natural or habitual inclination or tendency (especially of human character or behavior) -the fact that someone likes something or likes to do something, especially something considered morally wrong. "the sexual proclivities of celebrities"

Trifle

Noun -a thing of little value or importance "we needn't trouble the headmaster over such trifles" -a small amount of something "the thousands yen he'd paid seemed the merest trifle" Verb -treat (someone or something) without seriousness or respect "he is not a man to be trifled with" -talk or act frivolously "we will not trifle—life is too short" -waste something, especially time, frivolously "he had trifled away two months at a task which should have taken a week"

Fiasco /fēˈaskō/

Noun -a thing that is a complete failure, especially in a ludicrous or humiliating way. "his plans turned into a fiasco"

Concession /kənˈseSHən/

Noun -a thing that is granted, especially in response to demands; a thing conceded. "the strikers returned to work having won some concessions" -the action of conceding, granting, or yielding something. "this strict rule was relaxed by concession" -a gesture, especially a token one, made in recognition of a demand or prevailing standard. "her only concession to fashion was her ornate silver ring" -a preferential allowance or rate given by an organization. "tax concessions" -the right to use land or other property for a specified purpose, granted by a government, company, or other controlling body. "new logging concessions" -a commercial operation within the premises of a larger concern, typically selling refreshments. "operates the concessions at the stadium" CANADIAN -a piece of land into which surveyed land is divided, itself further divided into lots. -the act of giving up something or doing something in order to reach agreement "the company has been unwilling to make concessions (to the strikers) during negotiations." -the act of admitting that you have been defeated in a contest "we are waiting for his concession of the election." -something that you allow or do to end a conflict or reach an agreement "the strikers have won/gained/secured some important/major concessions from the company." -a grant of land or property especially by a government in return for services or for a particular use -a right to undertake and profit by a specified activity "a concession to drill for oil" -a lease of a portion of premises for a particular purpose; also, the portion leased or the activities carried on -a small business or shop where things are sold in a public place (such as a sports stadium or theater) "the theater had real Raisinets at the concession, so I got some of those, too."

Boon /bo͞on/

Noun -a thing that is helpful or beneficial. "the navigation system will be a boon to both civilian and military users" ARCHAIC -a favor or request. "may I have the inestimable boon of a few minutes' conversation?" -a timely benefit; blessing "a boon to new homeowners" -benefit or favor; (especially) one that is given in answer to a request "would not grant his boon" KIDS DEFINITION -something asked or granted as a favor "when the pie was all finished, the Owl, as a boon, was kindly permitted to pocket the spoon" -something pleasant or helpful that comes at just the right time "the rain was a boon to the farmers."

Sham /SHam/

Noun -a thing that is not what it is purported to be. "the proposed legislation is a farce and a sham" -pretense. "it all turned out to be sham and hypocrisy" -a person who pretends to be someone or something they are not. "he was a sham, totally unqualified for his job as a senior doctor" NORTH AMERICAN -short for "pillow sham." -a trick that deludes; hoax "feared that the deal was a sham" -cheap falseness; hypocrisy "saw through the hollowness, the sham, the silliness of the empty pageant" -an ornamental covering for a pillow -a decorative covering for a pillow Adjective -bogus; false. "a clergyman who arranged a sham marriage" -not genuine; false, feigned -having such poor quality as to seem false Verb -falsely present something as the truth. "was he ill or was he shamming?" -pretend to be or to be experiencing. "she shams indifference" -to go through the external motions necessary to counterfeit -to act intentionally so as to give a false impression; feign -to act in a deceiving way

Prerequisite /prēˈrekwəzət/

Noun -a thing that is required as a prior condition for something else to happen or exist. "sponsorship is not a prerequisite for any of our courses" Adjective -required as a prior condition. "the student must have the prerequisite skills"

Fathom /ˈfaT͟Həm/

Noun -a unit of length equal to six feet (approximately 1.8 m), chiefly used in reference to the depth of water. "sonar says that we're in eighteen fathoms" -a measure of depth in water Verb -understand (a difficult problem or an enigmatic person) after much thought. "he couldn't fathom why she was being so anxious" -measure the depth of (water). "an attempt to fathom the ocean" -to understand, get to the bottom of; to determine the depth of;

Sieve /siv/

Noun -a utensil consisting of a wire or plastic mesh held in a frame, used for straining solids from liquids, for separating coarser from finer particles, or for reducing soft solids to a pulp. "puree the potatoes through a sieve" -used figuratively with reference to the fact that a sieve does not hold all its contents. "she's forgotten all the details already—she's got a mind like a sieve" Verb -put (a food substance or other material) through a sieve. "sieve the flour and sugar together in a bowl" -remove (unwanted items). "filters sieve large particles out of the water to prevent them from harming the pumps" -examine in detail. "lawyers had sieved through her contract"

Surfeit

Noun -an excessive amount of something "a surfeit of food and drink" Verb -cause (someone) to desire no more of something as a result of having consumed or done it to excess "I am surfeited with shopping"

Spectacle /ˈspektək(ə)l/

Noun -a visually striking performance or display. "the acrobatic feats make a good spectacle" -an event or scene regarded in terms of its visual impact. "the spectacle of a city's mass grief" -something exhibited to view as unusual, notable, or entertaining; (especially of) an eye-catching or dramatic public display -an object of curiosity or contempt "made a spectacle of herself"

Spectacle /ˈspektək(ə)l/

Noun -a visually striking performance or display. "the acrobatic feats make a good spectacle" -an event or scene regarded in terms of its visual impact. "the spectacle of a city's mass grief" -something exhibited to view as unusual, notable, or entertaining; (especially) an eye-catching or dramatic public display -an unusual or unexpected event or situation that attracts attention, interest, or disapproval

Pendulum /ˈpenjələm/

Noun -a weight hung from a fixed point so that it can swing freely backward and forward, especially a rod with a weight at the end that regulates the mechanism of a clock. -used to refer to the tendency of a situation to oscillate between one extreme and another. "the pendulum of fashion"

Coquette /kōˈket/

Noun -a woman who flirts to get what she wants -a woman who flirts. "her transformation from an ice maiden warrior into a winsome coquette" -a crested Central and South American hummingbird, typically with green plumage, a reddish crest, and elongated cheek feathers.

Curtsy /ˈkərtsē/

Noun -a woman's or girl's formal greeting made by bending the knees with one foot in front of the other. "she bobbed a curtsy to him" Verb -perform a curtsy. "she curtsied onto the stage"

Fudger /ˈfəjə(r)/

Noun -a worker in a shoe factory who finishes the edge of a sole

Somnambulism /säm-ˈnam-byə-ˌli-zəm/

Noun -an abnormal condition of sleep in which motor acts (such as walking) are performed -actions characteristic of somnambulism -someone who walks while they are sleeping. -a less formal word is sleepwalker.

Leave-taking /ˈlēv-ˌtā-kiŋ/

Noun -an act of going away and saying goodbye "the leave-taking was restrained, with none of her earlier displays of emotion" -departure or farewell

Ruse /ro͞oz,ro͞os/

Noun -an action intended to deceive someone; a trick. "Eleanor tried to think of a ruse to get Paul out of the house" -an action designed to confuse or mislead, a trick

Affront /əˈfrənt/

Noun -an action or remark that causes outrage or offense. "he took his son's desertion as a personal affront" Verb -offend the modesty or values of. "she was affronted by his familiarity" -to insult especially to the face by behavior or language "he was affronted by her rudeness." -to cause offense to "laws that affront society" -to face in defiance; confront "affront death" OBSOLETE -to encounter face-to-face -to appear directly before -to do or say something that shows a lack of respect for (someone or someone's feelings)

Vestibule /ˈvestəˌbyo͞ol/

Noun -an antechamber, hall, or lobby next to the outer door of a building. -an enclosed entrance compartment in a railroad car. ANATOMY -a chamber or channel opening into another. -the central cavity of the labyrinth of the inner ear. -the part of the mouth outside the teeth. -the space in the vulva into which both the urethra and vagina open. -a passage, hall, or room between the outer door and the interior of a building; lobby -an enclosed entrance at the end of a railway passenger car -any of various bodily cavities especially when serving as or resembling an entrance to some other cavity or space -the central cavity of the bony labyrinth of the inner ear or the parts (such as the saccule and utricle) of the membranous labyrinth that it contains -the part of the left ventricle below the aortic orifice -the space between the labia minora containing the orifice of the urethra -the part of the mouth cavity outside the teeth and gums -a course that offers access (as to something new) KIDS DEFINITION -a hall or room between the outer door and the inside part of a building

Patrician /pəˈtriSHən/

Noun -an aristocrat or nobleman. NORTH AMERICAN -a member of a long-established wealthy family. -a member of a noble family or class in ancient Rome. Adjective -belonging to or characteristic of the aristocracy. "a proud, patrician face" NORTH AMERICAN -belonging to or characteristic of a long-established and wealthy family. -belonging to the nobility of ancient Rome.

Ménage à trois /māˌnäZH ə ˈtrwä,məˈnäZH ˈt(r)wä/

Noun -an arrangement in which three people share a sexual relationship, typically a domestic situation involving a married couple and the lover of one of them. -an arrangement in which three people (such as a married couple and a lover of one member of the couple) have a sexual or romantic relationship especially while they are living together -a sexual encounter involving three people; threesome

Influx /ˈinˌfləks/

Noun -an arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things. "a massive influx of tourists" -an inflow of water into a river, lake, or the sea. "the lakes are fed by influxes of meltwater"

Entreaty /inˈtrēdē,enˈtrēdē/

Noun -an earnest or humble request. "the king turned a deaf ear to his entreaties" KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -a serious and urgent request

Skirmish /ˈskərmiSH/

Noun -an episode of irregular or unpremeditated fighting, especially between small or outlying parts of armies or fleets. "the unit was caught in several skirmishes and the commanding officer was killed" -a short argument. "there was a skirmish over the budget" -a minor fight in war usually incidental to larger movements -a minor dispute or contest between opposing parties "the debate touched off a skirmish" SIMPLE DEFINITION -a brief and usually unplanned fight during a war -a minor or brief argument or disagreement Verb -engage in a skirmish. "the two powers have fought three major wars and have skirmished continually"

Amok /ə-ˈmək/

Noun -an episode of sudden mass assault against people or objects usually by a single individual following a period of brooding that has traditionally been regarded as occurring especially in Malaysian culture but is now increasingly viewed as psychopathological behavior occurring worldwide in numerous countries and cultures Adjective -possessed with or motivated by a murderous or violently uncontrollable frenzy Adverb -in a violently raging, wild, or uncontrolled manner "rioters running amok in the streets"

Allusion /əˈlo͞oZHən/

Noun -an expression designed to call something to mind without mentioning it explicitly; an indirect or passing reference. "an allusion to Shakespeare" -the practice of making allusions, especially as an artistic device. "the use of allusion" -an implied or indirect reference especially in literature "a poem that makes allusions to classical literature" -(also) the use of such references; the act of making an indirect reference to something; the act of alluding to something KIDS DEFINITION -a statement that refers to something without mentioning it directly

Guise /ɡīz/

Noun -an external form, appearance, or manner of presentation, typically concealing the true nature of something. "he visited in the guise of an inspector" -a form or style of dress; costume "attended the masquerade in the guise of a court jester" OBSOLETE -manner; fashion ARCHAIC -a customary way of speaking or behaving -external appearance; semblance "the android is a machine in human guise." -pretext "swindles people under the guise of friendship"

Deadbeat

Noun -an idle, feckless, or disreputable person. "a nation of deadbeats who must work harder" -one who persistently fails to pay personal debts or expenses -a lazy person; a person who does not work -(chiefly US) a person who does not pay money that is owed

Simulacrum /ˌsimyəˈlākrəm,ˌsimyəˈlakrəm/

Noun -an image or representation of someone or something. "a small-scale simulacrum of a skyscraper" -an unsatisfactory imitation or substitute. "a bland simulacrum of American soul music" -image; representation "a reasonable simulacrum of reality" -an insubstantial form or semblance of something; trace

Array /əˈrā/

Noun -an impressive display or range of a particular type of thing. "there is a vast array of literature on the topic" -an ordered series or arrangement. "several arrays of solar panels will help provide power" -an arrangement of troops. "I shall have my men drawn up here in battle array ready to come to your help" MATHEMATICS -an arrangement of quantities or symbols in rows and columns; a matrix. COMPUTING -an indexed set of related elements. LITERARY -elaborate or beautiful clothing. "he was clothed in fine array" LAW -a list of jurors empaneled. Verb -display or arrange (things) in a particular way. "the forces arrayed against him" -dress someone in (the clothes specified). "they were arrayed in Hungarian national dress" LAW -empanel (a jury).

Byproduct /ˈbīˌprädəkt/

Noun -an incidental or secondary product made in the manufacture or synthesis of something else. "zinc is a byproduct of the glazing process" -a secondary result, unintended but inevitably produced in doing or producing something else. "he saw poverty as the byproduct of colonial prosperity" -something produced in a usually industrial or biological process in addition to the principal product "sulfured molasses is a by-product of sugar refining." -a secondary and sometimes unexpected or unintended result "Japan's success as an international exporter of manufactured goods is a by-product of the volatile trade among Japanese cities."

Non sequitur /non sekwiter/

Noun -an inference that does not follow from the premise -a statement (such as a response) that does not follow logically from or is not clearly related to anything previously said. "we were talking about the new restaurant when she threw in some non sequitur about her dog"

Slight

Noun -an insult often caused by a failure to show someone proper respect or attention. "an unintended slight can create grudges" Verb -insult (someone) by treating or speaking of them without proper respect or attention. "he was careful not to slight a guest" Adjective -small in degree; inconsiderable. "a slight increase" -(especially of a creative work) not profound or substantial; somewhat trivial or superficial. "a slight plot" -(of a person or their build) not sturdy and strongly built. "she was slight and delicate-looking"

Orifice /ˈôrəfəs/

Noun -an opening, as of a pipe or tube, or one in the body, such as a nostril or the anus.

Conjecture /kənˈjekCHər/

Noun -an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. "conjectures about the newcomer were many and varied" -an unproven mathematical or scientific theorem. "the Goldbach conjecture" -(in textual criticism) the suggestion or reconstruction of a reading of a text not present in the original source. -inference formed without proof or sufficient evidence -a conclusion deduced by surmise or guesswork "the criminal's motive remains a matter of conjecture." -a proposition (as in mathematics) before it has been proved or disproved OBSOLETE -interpretation of omens -supposition Verb -form an opinion or supposition about (something) on the basis of incomplete information. "many conjectured that the jury could not agree" -(in textual criticism) propose (a reading). -to arrive at or deduce by surmise or guesswork; guess "scientists conjecturing that a disease is caused by a defective gene"

Brooch /brōCH,bro͞oCH/

Noun -an ornament fastened to clothing with a hinged pin and catch. -an ornament that is held by a pin or clasp and is worn at or near the neck

Inundation /ˌinənˈdāSH(ə)n/

Noun -an overwhelming abundance of people or things. "we see an inundation of campaign posters" -flooding. "the annual inundation of the Nile"

Lout

Noun -an uncouth and aggressive man or boy "drunken louts" -indicate an undesirable person -an awkward, stupid person

Mishap /ˈmisˌhap/

Noun -an unlucky accident. "although there were a few minor mishaps, none of the pancakes stuck to the ceiling" -an unfortunate accident "the fire was a tragic mishap that could have been prevented." -bad luck; misfortune "the ceremony proceeded without mishap."

Bullock /ˈbo͝olək/

Noun -another term for steer -a young bull -a castrated bull; steer

Apprehension

Noun -anxiety or fear that something bad or unpleasant will happen -understanding; grasp -the action of arresting someone

Nymph

Noun -any of the minor divinities of nature in classical mythology represented as beautiful maidens dwelling in the mountains, forests, trees, and waters -a mythological spirit of nature imagined as a beautiful maiden inhabiting rivers, woods, or other locations. -any of various immature insects especially : a larva of an insect (such as a grasshopper, true bug, or mayfly) with incomplete metamorphosis that differs from the imago especially in size and in its incompletely developed wings and genitalia -a spirit in the shape of a young woman who lives in mountains, forests, meadows, and water -a young insect that has almost the same form as the adult

Affectation /ˌafekˈtāSH(ə)n/

Noun -behavior, speech, or writing that is artificial and designed to impress. "the affectation of a man who measures every word for effect" -a studied display of real or pretended feeling. "an affectation of calm" -speech or conduct not natural to oneself; an unnatural form of behavior meant especially to impress others "his French accent is just an affectation." -the act of taking on or displaying an attitude or mode of behavior not natural to oneself or not genuinely felt "speaking honestly without affectation" OBSOLETE -a striving after

Reorient

Noun -change the focus or direction of. "the country began reorienting its economic and social policies in 1988" -find one's position again in relation to one's surroundings "slowly they advanced, stopping every so often and then reorienting themselves"

Drapery /ˈdrāp(ə)rē/

Noun -cloth, curtains, or clothing hanging in loose folds. "the hall of the school was hung with green drapery" -the depiction of folds of cloth in sculpture or painting. "the effigy is notable for its flowing drapery" BRITISH -dry goods -a decorative piece of material usually hung in loose folds and arranged in a graceful design -hangings of heavy fabric for use as a curtain -the draping or arranging of materials

Garb /ɡärb/

Noun -clothing or dress, especially of a distinctive or special kind. "the black and brown garb of a Franciscan friar" HERALDRY -a sheaf of wheat. Verb -dress in distinctive clothes. "she was garbed in Indian shawls" -to dress (someone) in a particular type of clothing

Brevity (brevedē)

Noun -concise and exact use of words in writing or speech "the staff will edit manuscripts with a view to brevity and clarity" -shortness of time "the brevity of human life"

Willpower /ˈwilˌpou(ə)r/

Noun -control exerted to do something or restrain impulses. "most of our bad habits are due to laziness or lack of willpower"

Grit /ɡrit/

Noun -courage and resolve; strength of character. "he displayed the true grit of the navy pilot" -small loose particles of stone or sand. "she had a bit of grit in her eye" -(with numeral) indicating the grade of fineness of an abrasive. modifier noun: grit "220-grit paper" -a coarse sandstone. plural noun: grits; noun: gritstone "layers of impervious shales and grits"

Gallantry /ˈɡaləntrē/

Noun -courageous behavior, especially in battle. "a medal awarded for outstanding gallantry during the raid" -polite attention or respect given by men to women. "no young man offers to carry this burden for her: such gallantry is out of fashion" -actions or words used when paying polite and respectful attention to women. "I courted her with all the genteel gallantries of a minstrel"

Discord /ˈdiskôrd/

Noun -disagreement between people. "a prosperous family who showed no signs of discord" -lack of agreement or harmony between things. "the discord between indigenous and Western cultures" -active quarreling or conflict resulting from discord among persons or factions; strife "marital discord" MUSIC -lack of harmony between notes sounding together. "the music faded in discord" -a combination of musical sounds that strikes the ear harshly -dissonance "the song ends on a discord." -a harsh or unpleasant sound -a chord which (in conventional harmonic terms) is regarded as unpleasing or requiring resolution by another. -any interval except unison, an octave, a perfect fifth or fourth, a major or minor third and sixth, or their octaves. -a single note dissonant with another. Verb ARCHAIC -(of people) disagree. "we discorded commonly on two points" -(of things) be different or in disharmony. "the party's views were apt to discord with those of the leading members of the administration"

Dissension /dəˈsen(t)SH(ə)n/

Noun -disagreement that leads to discord. "these issues caused bitter dissension in the party" -disagreement that causes the people in a group to argue about something that is important to them

Crusade /kro͞oˈsād/

Noun -each of a series of medieval military expeditions made by Europeans to recover the Holy Land from the Muslims in the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries. "the fanaticism engendered by the Crusades" -a war instigated for alleged religious ends. noun: crusade; plural noun: crusades "the Albigensian crusades" -a vigorous campaign for political, social, or religious change. "a crusade against crime" -any one of the wars that European Christian countries fought against Muslims in Palestine in the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries -a major effort to change something Verb -lead or take part in a vigorous campaign for social, political, or religious change. "he crusaded against gambling in the 1950s" -to take part in a major effort to change something

Stimulation /ˌstimyəˈlāSH(ə)n/

Noun -encouragement of something to make it develop or become more active. "the stimulation of a revolution in intelligence affairs" -the action of arousing interest, enthusiasm, or excitement. "the child needs plenty of stimulation as bored hands can make mischief" -the raising of levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body or any biological system. "stimulation of the vagus nerve slows heart rate" -an action or thing that causes someone or something to become more active or enthusiastic, or to develop or operate

Old Money

Noun -established, inherited wealth. "he carries the patina of old money and good breeding" -those whose families have been wealthy for many generations. "the list of Canada's wealthiest people, once dominated by old money, is no longer so exclusive" -people whose families have been rich for a long time "he comes from old money." Adjective -of, being, or related to people whose families have been rich for a long time "an old money family/neighborhood"

Miserliness /ˈmīzərlēnəs/

Noun -excessive desire to save money; extreme meanness. "the party earned a damaging reputation for miserliness by cutting pensions" -the quality of being small or inadequate; meagerness. "the relative miserliness of the prizes involved"

Debauchery /dəˈbôCHərē/

Noun -excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures. -extreme indulgence in bodily pleasures and especially sexual pleasures; behavior involving sex, drugs, alcohol, etc. that is often considered immoral.

Demeanor /dəˈmēnər/

Noun -outward behavior or bearing. "a quiet, somber demeanor" -is a person's appearance and behavior -the way someone seems to be to other people. -behavior; manner of conducting oneself

Conceit /kənˈsēt/

Noun -excessive pride in oneself. "he was puffed up with conceit" -too much pride in your own worth or goodness "his conceit has earned him many enemies." LITERARY -an idea that shows imagination "an artistic conceit" -a fanciful expression in writing or speech; an elaborate metaphor. "the idea of the wind's singing is a prime romantic conceit" -an artistic effect or device. "the director's brilliant conceit was to film this tale in black and white" -a fanciful notion. "he is alarmed by the widespread conceit that he spent most of the 1980s drunk"

Haste /hāst/

Noun -excessive speed or urgency of movement or action; hurry. "working with feverish haste" Verb -archaic term for hasten.

Torment /ˈtȯr-ˌment/

Noun -extreme pain or anguish of body or mind; agony "She wrung her hands piteously together, looking like a soul in torment." -a source of vexation or pain "Love is a delight; but hate a torment." "the twin torments of his probable manic depression and chronic stomach pains." -the infliction of torture (as by rack or wheel) Verb -annoy or provoke in a deliberately unkind way. "every day I have kids tormenting me because they know I live alone" -cause to experience severe mental or physical suffering. "he was tormented by jealousy" -to cause severe usually persistent or recurrent distress of body or mind to "cattle tormented by flies" "tormented by doubt" "she liked me, but she laughed at me, and tormented me" -distort; twist Adjective -experiencing or characterized by severe physical or mental suffering. "he is a tormented genius"

Agony /ˈaɡənē/

Noun -extreme physical or mental suffering. "he crashed to the ground in agony" -the final stages of a difficult or painful death. "his last agony"

Alimony /ˈaləˌmōnē/

Noun -financial support that a person is ordered by a court to give to their spouse during separation or following divorce. "he is said to have paid $300,000 alimony to his first wife"

Ange /ɑ̃j/

Noun -french term for angel; a messenger or attendant of God "the angels announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds." -a very good or beautiful person "she's been an absolute angel about helping us."

Astonishment

Noun -great surprise. "she looked at him in astonishment"

Opulence

Noun -great wealth or luxuriousness "rooms of spectacular opulence"

Deference /ˈdef(ə)rəns/

Noun -humble submission and respect. "he addressed her with the deference due to age" -respect and esteem due a superior or an elder -a way of behaving that shows respect for someone or something

Indirection /ˌindəˈrekSHən/

Noun -indirectness or lack of straightforwardness in action, speech, or progression. "his love of intrigue and sly indirection" -indirect action or procedure -lack of direction; aimlessness -lack of straightforwardness and openness; deceitfulness -something (such as an act or statement) marked by lack of straightforwardness "hated diplomatic indirections"

Vanity /ˈva-nə-tē/

Noun -inflated pride in oneself or one's appearance; conceit -something that is vain, empty, or valueless -dressing table -a bathroom cabinet containing a sink and usually having a countertop -the quality or fact of being vain -a fashionable trifle or knickknack -the quality of people who have too much pride in their own appearance, abilities, achievements, etc. : the quality of being vain -something (such as a belief or a way of behaving) which shows that you have too much pride in yourself, your social status, etc. Adjective -of, relating to, or being a work (such as a book or recording) whose production cost is paid by the author or artist -of, relating to, or being a showcase for a usually famous performer or artist who is often also the project's creator or driving force write, direct, and star in a vanity film

Fervor /ˈfərvər/

Noun -intense and passionate feeling. "he talked with all the fervor of a new convert" ARCHAIC -intense heat. -intensity of feeling or expression "booing and cheering with almost equal fervor" -a strong feeling of excitement and enthusiasm

Industrial Company

Noun -is a company which is engaged in the production of capital goods which in turn are generally used in either manufacturing or construction. -a company whose main business is producing goods

Inaction /inˈakSH(ə)n/

Noun -lack of action where some is expected or appropriate. "future generations will condemn us for inaction"

Pusillanimity /ˌpyo͞osələˈnimədē/

Noun -lack of courage or determination; timidity. "the pusillanimity of his answer surprised me"

Folly /ˈfälē/

Noun -lack of good sense; foolishness. "an act of sheer folly" -a foolish act, idea, or practice. "the follies of youth" -a costly ornamental building with no practical purpose, especially a tower or mock-Gothic ruin built in a large garden or park. -a theatrical revue with glamorous female performers. "the Ziegfeld Follies" -lack of good sense or normal prudence and foresight "his folly in thinking he could not be caught" -criminally or tragically foolish actions or conduct OBSOLETE -evil; wickedness; (especially of a) lewd behavior -an excessively costly or unprofitable undertaking "paying so much for that land was folly, since it was all rocks and scrub trees."

Baseness /ˈbāsnis/

Noun -lack of moral principles; bad character. "the baseness of human nature"

Pasture /ˈpasCHər/

Noun -land covered with grass and other low plants suitable for grazing animals, especially cattle or sheep. "areas of rich meadow pasture" -used to refer to a person's situation in life. "he has departed for the greener pastures of a corner office" Verb -put (animals) in a pasture to graze. "they pastured their cows in the water meadow" -(of animals) graze. "the livestock pastured and the crops grew"

Revelry /ˈrevəlrē/

Noun -lively and noisy festivities, especially when these involve drinking a large amount of alcohol. "sounds of revelry issued into the night"

Avant-garde /ˌaväntˈɡärd/

Noun -new and unusual or experimental ideas, especially in the arts, or the people introducing them. "works by artists of the Russian avant-garde" Adjective -favoring or introducing experimental or unusual ideas. "a controversial avant-garde composer"

Adulation /ˌajəˈlāSH(ə)n/

Noun -obsequious flattery; excessive admiration or praise. "he found it difficult to cope with the adulation of the fans"

Bliss /blis/

Noun -perfect happiness; great joy. "she gave a sigh of bliss" -a state of spiritual blessedness, typically that reached after death. "the bliss of heaven" Verb INFORMAL -reach a state of perfect happiness, typically so as to be oblivious of everything else. "blissed-out hippies"

Self-absorption

Noun -preoccupied with oneself or one's own affairs (the exclusion of others or the outside world.)

Inroad

Noun -progress; an advance "an important way to make inroads in reducing spending" -an instance of something being affected, encroached on, or destroyed by something else "serious inroads had now been made into my pitiful cash reserves" -a hostile attack; a raid -an advance or penetration often at the expense of someone or something

Profligacy /ˈpräfləɡəsē/

Noun -reckless extravagance or wastefulness in the use of resources. "his financial prudence corrected the profligacies of Nero" -licentious or dissolute behavior. "the emperor's sexual profligacy"

Self-regard /ˌself-ri-ˈgärd/

Noun -regard for or consideration of oneself or one's own interests

Insolence /ˈinsələns/

Noun -rude and disrespectful behavior. "she was sacked for insolence"

Aplomb /əˈpläm,əˈpləm/

Noun -self-confidence or assurance, especially when in a demanding situation. "Diana passed the test with aplomb" -complete and confident composure or self-assurance; poise "she played several roles with equal aplomb." -confidence and skill shown especially in a difficult situation

Peril

Noun -serious and immediate danger -the dangers or difficulties that arise from a particular situation or activity. Verb -expose to danger; threaten

Peril

Noun -serious and immediate danger. -the dangers or difficulties that arise from a particular situation or activity

Necrophilia /ˌnekrəˈfilēə/

Noun -sexual intercourse with or attraction towards corpses.

Rattletrap

Noun -something (such as a car) that is old, noisy, and not in good condition -junky -an old or rickety vehicle

Alms /ˈä(l)mz/

Noun -something (such as money or food) given freely to relieve the poor "distributing alms to the needy" ARCHAIC -charity

Mirage

Noun -something that appears real or possible but is not in fact so. "the notion that the public is pro-business is a mirage"

Sovereignty /ˈsäv(ə)rən(t)ē/

Noun -supreme power or authority. "how can we hope to wrest sovereignty away from the oligarchy and back to the people?" -the authority of a state to govern itself or another state. "national sovereignty" -a self-governing state.

Ablution /əˈblo͞oSHən/

Noun -the act of washing oneself (often used for humorously formal effect). "the women performed their ablutions" -a ceremonial act of washing parts of the body or sacred containers.

Self-delusion /ˈˌself dəˈlo͞oZHən/

Noun -the action of deluding oneself; failure to recognize reality. "he retreats into a world of fantasy and self-delusion" -the act of deluding oneself or the state of being deluded by oneself especially concerning one's true nature, abilities, feelings, etc. "my god-given talent for self-delusion keeps me believing that the increasing amount of time I spend alone is of my own choice"

Delineation /diˌlinēˈāSH(ə)n/

Noun -the action of describing or portraying something precisely. "the artist's exquisite delineation of costume and jewelry" -the action of indicating the exact position of a border or boundary. "the eventual delineation of the border between the two states"

Pursuit /pərˈso͞ot/

Noun -the action of following or pursuing someone or something. "the cat crouched in the grass in pursuit of a bird" -a bicycle race in which competitors start from different parts of a track and attempt to overtake one another. "the Olympic pursuit champion" -an activity of a specified kind, especially a recreational or athletic one. "a whole range of leisure pursuits"

Make-believe /ˈmākbəˌlēv/

Noun -the action of pretending or imagining that things are better than they really are. "she's living in a world of make-believe" Adjective -imitating something real; pretend. "he was firing a make-believe gun at the spy planes" Verb -pretend; imagine. "Brenda rode along, make-believing she was a knight riding to the rescue"

Grumbling /ˈɡrəmbliNG/

Noun -the action or fact of complaining in a bad-tempered way. "despite his grumbling, he tried to exercise every day" -a mutter of discontent; complaint "operators of bars and restaurants, who hear the first-hand grumblings of customers on the boardwalk, tend to oppose the ordinance." -a growling or reverberating noise; rumbling "on a shorter timescale, researchers and governments are working together to detect the first grumblings of an earthquake and alert communities that might be affected." Adjective -expressing a complaint in a bad-tempered way. "grumbling employees said they were prevented from accessing e-commerce sites" -making a low rumbling sound. "you don't have to sacrifice your diet to silence a grumbling stomach" -making a low, heavy, rolling sound "there was no sound, still, but the rushing river and the grumbling, looming storm." Verb /ˈɡrəmbəl/ -complain about something in a bad-tempered way. "his father was grumbling that he hadn't heard from him" -make a low rumbling sound. "thunder was grumbling somewhere in the distance" -(of an internal organ) give intermittent discomfort. "my appendix grumbled for years before it finally got serious"

Hypocrisy /həˈpäkrəsē/

Noun -the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform; pretense. "his target was the hypocrisy of suburban life" -a feigning to be what one is not or to believe what one does not : behavior that contradicts what one claims to believe or feel "his hypocrisy was finally revealed with the publication of his private letters." -(especially) the false assumption of an appearance of virtue or religion "our conventional morality often serves as a cover for hypocrisy and selfishness" -the quality of acting in a way that goes against claimed beliefs or feelings

Flux /fləks/

Noun -the action or process of flowing or flowing out. "the flux of men and women moving back and forth" PHYSICS -the rate of flow of a fluid, radiant energy, or particles across a given area. -the amount of radiation or number of particles incident on an area in a given time. -the total electric or magnetic field passing through a surface. MEDICINE -an abnormal discharge of blood or other matter from or within the body. ARCHAIC -diarrhea or dysentery. -continuous change. "since the fall of the wall Berlin has been a city in flux" -a continuous moving on or passing by (as of a stream) -a continued flow; flow "a flux of words" -change; fluctuation "in a state of flux" "the flux following the death of the emperor" -a substance mixed with a solid to lower its melting point, used especially in soldering and brazing metals or to promote vitrification in glass or ceramics. -a substance added to a furnace during metal smelting or glassmaking that combines with impurities to form slag. Verb -treat (a metal object) with a flux to promote melting.

Leeway /ˈlēˌwā/

Noun -the amount of freedom to move or act that is available. -margin of safety. "there is little leeway if anything goes wrong" -the sideways drift of a ship or an aircraft to leeward of the desired course. "the leeway is only about 2°" -an allowable margin of freedom or variation; tolerance "the new rules allow managers greater leeway in making decisions." -off-course lateral movement of a ship when underway "the sailboat's centerboard helps to reduce leeway." -the angle between the heading and the track of an airplane -freedom to do something the way you want to do it

Antiquity /anˈtikwədē/

Noun -the ancient past, especially the period before the Middle Ages. "the great civilizations of antiquity" -an object, building, or work of art from the ancient past. "an extensive collection of Greek antiquities" -great age. "a church of great antiquity" -the quality of being ancient "a castle of great antiquity" -relics or monuments (such as coins, statues, or buildings) of ancient times "a museum of Greek antiquities" -matters relating to the life or culture of ancient times "the study of Germanic antiquities"

Brinkmanship /ˈbriNGkmənˌSHip/

Noun -the art or practice of pursuing a dangerous policy to the limits of safety before stopping, especially in politics. "in any game of brinkmanship, it is possible that one side will collapse suddenly"

Implication /ˌimpləˈkāSH(ə)n/

Noun -the conclusion that can be drawn from something although it is not explicitly stated. "the implication is that no one person at the bank is responsible" -a likely consequence of something. "a victory that had important political implications" -the action or state of being involved in something. "our implication in the problems"

Self-containment /ˌselfkənˈtānmənt/

Noun -the condition of being complete, or having all that is needed, in itself. "the design combines functionality with a sense of elegant self-containment" -the quality of not depending on or being influenced by others; independence. "a man with an air of complete self-containment"

Precedence /ˈpresədəns,prēˈsēdns/

Noun -the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else; priority in importance, order, or rank. "his desire for power soon took precedence over any other consideration" -the order to be ceremonially observed by people of different rank, according to an acknowledged or legally determined system. "quarrels over precedence among the Bonaparte family marred the coronation"

Frailty /ˈfrā(ə)ltē/

Noun -the condition of being weak and delicate. "the increasing frailty of old age" -weakness in character or morals. plural noun: frailties "all drama begins with human frailty" -a fault due to weakness especially of moral character "satire ... often employs irony and sarcasm to denounce the frailties and faults of mankind." -physical weakness : the quality or state of being frail -weakness of character that causes a person to do things that are morally wrong

Negation /nəˈɡāSH(ə)n/

Noun -the contradiction or denial of something. "there should be confirmation—or negation—of the findings" GRAMMAR -denial of the truth of a clause or sentence, typically involving the use of a negative word (e.g. not, no, never ) or a word or affix with negative force (e.g. nothing, non- ). LOGIC -a proposition whose assertion specifically denies the truth of another proposition. "the negation of A is, briefly, "not A."" MATHEMATICS -inversion. "these formulae and their negations" -the absence or opposite of something actual or positive. "evil is not merely the negation of goodness"

Breadth /bredTH/

Noun -the distance or measurement from side to side of something; width. "the boat measured 27 feet in breadth" -wide range or extent. "she has the advantage of breadth of experience" DATED -a piece of cloth of standard or full width. -overall unity of artistic effect. "these masterpieces showed a new breadth of handling"

Inception /inˈsepSH(ə)n/

Noun -the establishment or starting point of an institution or activity. "she has been on the board since its inception two years ago" -an act, process, or instance of beginning; commencement

Prolixity /prəˈlɪk.sə.ti/

Noun -the fact of using too many words and therefore being boring or difficult to read or listen to: "despite all its absurd prolixity, this is one of the great books in the English language." -the state or quality of being unnecessarily or tediously wordy; verbosity. "the book offers food for thought but, for all its prolixity, fails to effectively explain what is at the core of irony as a rhetorical strategy."

Self-loathing

Noun -the feeling of hating yourself -extreme criticism of oneself. -It may feel as though nothing you do is good enough or that you are unworthy or undeserving of good things in life.

Self-determination /ˌself-di-ˌtər-mə-ˈnā-shən/

Noun -the process by which a country determines its own statehood and forms its own allegiances and government. "the changes cannot be made until the country's right to self-determination is recognized" -the process by which a person controls their own life. "services for the mentally ill should aim to promote individuals' capacity for self-determination" -refers to each person's ability to make choices and manage their own life. -the right of the people of a particular place to choose the form of government they will have -the freedom to make your own choices

Litigation /ˌlidəˈɡāSH(ə)n/

Noun -the process of taking legal action. "the company wishes to avoid litigation" -the act, process, or practice of settling a dispute in a court of law : the act or process of litigating "an issue that has been in litigation for years"

Contempt /kənˈtem(p)t/

Noun -the feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn. "he showed his contempt for his job by doing it very badly" -disregard for something that should be taken into account. "this action displays an arrogant contempt for the wishes of the majority" -the offense of being disobedient to or disrespectful of a court of law and its officers. "when he was found to have lied to the House this was a contempt" -a feeling that someone or something is not worthy of any respect or approval "he feels that wealthy people view/regard him with contempt because he is poor." -a lack of respect for or fear of something that is usually respected or feared "they have acted with contempt for public safety. [=they have completely ignored public safety]" LAW -speech or behavior that does not show proper respect to a court or judge She was arrested for contempt of court. -the act of despising : the state of mind of one who despises; disdain "glared at him in contempt" -lack of respect or reverence for something "acting with contempt for public safety" -willful disobedience to or open disrespect of a court, judge, or legislative body "contempt of court"

Disdain /disˈdān/

Noun -the feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one's consideration or respect; contempt. "her upper lip curled in disdain" -consider to be unworthy of one's consideration. "gamblers disdain four-horse races" -refuse or reject (something) out of feelings of pride or superiority. "she remained standing, pointedly disdaining his invitation to sit down" -a feeling of strong dislike or disapproval of someone or something you think does not deserve respect "He glared at the waiter with a look of disdain [=contempt, scorn] on his face." Verb -to look on with scorn "disdained him as a coward" -to refuse or abstain from because of a feeling of contempt or scorn "disdained to answer their questions" -to treat as beneath one's notice or dignity

Bow /bou/

Noun -the front end of a ship. "water sprayed high over her bows"

Litheness

Noun -the gracefulness of a person or being that is flexible and supple

Hilt /hilt/

Noun -the handle of a weapon or tool, especially a sword, dagger, or knife.

Bridle /ˈbrīdl/

Noun -the headgear used to control a horse, consisting of buckled straps to which a bit and reins are attached. "grooms came at once to take the bridles" -a line, rope, or device that is used to restrain or control the action or movement of something. NAUTICAL -a length of rope, chain, or cable fastened at both ends to an object that is to be secured or moved or to a vessel that is to do the towing, a pull being exerted at the center of its length. Verb -put a bridle on (a horse). "five horses, saddled and bridled, were tied by the reins to branches of trees" -bring (something) under control; curb. "the fact that he was their servant bridled his tongue" -show one's resentment or anger, especially by throwing up the head and drawing in the chin. "ranchers have bridled at excessive federal control"

Aristocracy

Noun -the highest class in certain societies, especially those holding hereditary titles or offices. -a form of government in which power is held by the nobility -a state governed by the aristocracy -a group regarded as privileged or superior in a particular sphere

Hoof /ho͝of,ho͞of/

Noun -the horny part of the foot of an ungulate animal, especially a horse. "there was a clatter of hoofs as a rider came up to them" Verb -to walk especially with haste "hoofed it to the lecture hall" -kick; trample -to move on the feet; (especially) dance KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -a covering of tough material that protects the ends of the toes of some animals (as horses, oxen, or pigs) -a foot (as of a horse) covered by a hoof

Entrée /ˈänˌtrā,ˌänˈtrā/

Noun -the main course of a meal. BRITISH -a dish served between the first and main courses at a formal dinner. -the right to enter or join a particular sphere or group. "an actress with an entrée into the intellectual society of Berlin"

Pinnacle

Noun -the most successful point; the culmination. -a high, pointed piece of rock -a small pointed turret built as an ornament on a roof Verb -set on or as on a pinnacle -form the culminating point or example of

Repute /rəˈpyo͞ot/

Noun -the opinion generally held of someone or something; the state of being regarded in a particular way. "pollution could bring the authority's name into bad repute" -the state of being highly thought of; fame. "chefs of international repute" -be generally regarded to be or as being (but not definitely the case). "he's reputed to earn $7m per annum" -the character or status commonly ascribed to one; reputation. -the state of being favorably known, spoken of, or esteemed

Semblance /ˈsembləns/

Noun -the outward appearance or apparent form of something, especially when the reality is different. "she tried to force her thoughts back into some semblance of order" -outward and often specious appearance or show; form "wrapped in a semblance of composure" -a phantasmal form; apparition -image; likeness -actual or apparent resemblance "her story bears some semblance to the truth" ARCHAIC -resemblance; similarity. "it bears some semblance to the thing I have in mind"

Trajectory /trəˈjekt(ə)rē/

Noun -the path followed by a projectile flying or an object moving under the action of given forces. "the missile's trajectory was preset" GEOMETRY -a curve or surface cutting a family of curves or surfaces at a constant angle.

Periphery /pə-ˈri-f(ə-)rē/

Noun -the perimeter of a circle or other closed curve; (also) the perimeter of a polygon -the external boundary or surface of a body -the outside boundary or surface of something -the outward bounds of something as distinguished from its internal regions or center; confines (Medical) -the regions (as the sense organs, the muscles, or the viscera) in which nerves terminate (Medical) -an area lying beyond the strict limits of a thing -the less important part of a group or activity: "many women feel they are being kept on the periphery of the armed forces."

Fruition /fro͞oˈiSH(ə)n/

Noun -the point at which a plan or project is realized. "the plans have come to fruition sooner than expected" -the realization of a plan or project. "new methods will come with the fruition of that research" -pleasurable use or possession; enjoyment "the sweet fruition of an earthly crown." -the state of bearing fruit "the fields needed rain for fruition." -the attainment or completion of something desired

Upside /ˈəpˌsīd/

Noun -the positive or favorable aspect of something. "being self-employed has its upside" -an upward movement of stock prices. "upside potential"

Worldliness /ˈwərl(d)lēnəs/

Noun -the quality of being experienced and sophisticated. "both display wisdom and worldliness of much older men" -concern with material values or ordinary life rather than a spiritual existence. "Chaucer drew attention to clerical avarice and worldliness" -interest in, concern with, or devotion to things of this world especially as opposed to a future stage of existence (as after death)

Naivete /ˌnäˌēv(ə)ˈtā,näˈēv(ə)ˌtā/

Noun -the quality of being naive; lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment. "his greatest fault was his political naïveté" -innocence or unsophistication. "some of the material is laughable in its naïveté"

Candor /ˈkandər/

Noun -the quality of being open and honest in expression; frankness. "a man of refreshing candor" -the quality of being open, sincere, and honest "she spoke with candor about racism." -freedom from prejudice or malice; fairness "a heavy accusation ... from a gentleman of your talents, liberality, and candor."

Allure /əˈlo͝or/

Noun -the quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating. "people for whom gold holds no allure" Verb -powerfully attract or charm; tempt. "will sponsors really be allured by such opportunities?"

Piety /ˈpīədē/

Noun -the quality of being religious or reverent. "acts of piety and charity" -a belief or point of view that is accepted with unthinking conventional reverence. plural noun: pieties "the accepted pieties of our time" -a conventional belief or standard; orthodoxy -the quality or state of being pious: such as: fidelity to natural obligations (as to parents); dutifulness in religion; devoutness

Pervasiveness /pərˈvāsivnəs/

Noun -the quality of spreading widely or being present throughout an area or a group of people. "the pervasiveness of violence on television"

Munificence /myo͞oˈnifəsəns,myəˈnifəsəns/

Noun -the quality or action of being lavishly generous; great generosity. "we must be thankful for his munificence"

Obstinacy /ˈäbstənəsē/

Noun -the quality or condition of being obstinate; stubbornness. "his reputation for obstinacy" -the quality or state of being difficult to remedy, relieve, or subdue "the obstinacy of tuberculosis"

Tenacity /təˈnasədē/

Noun -the quality or fact of being able to grip something firmly; grip. "the sheer tenacity of the limpet" -the quality or fact of being very determined; determination. "you have to admire the tenacity of these two guys" -the quality or fact of continuing to exist; persistence. "the tenacity of certain myths within the historical record"

Somnolence /ˈsäm-nə-lən(t)s/

Noun -the quality or state of being drowsy; sleepiness

Odds /ädz/

Noun -the ratio between the amounts staked by the parties to a bet, based on the expected probability either way. "the bookies are offering odds of 8-1" -the chances or likelihood of something happening or being the case. "the odds are that he is no longer alive" -superiority in strength, power, or resources; advantage. "she clung to the lead against all the odds" -an amount by which one thing exceeds or falls short of another won the election by considerable odds

Wreckage

Noun -the remains of something that has been badly damaged or destroyed "firemen had to cut him free from the wreckage of the car" -what is left of something that has been destroyed

Spinsterhood /ˈspin(t)-​stər-​ˌhu̇d/

Noun -the state of being a spinster (usually an elderly unmarried woman)

Notoriety /ˌnōdəˈrīədē/

Noun -the state of being famous or well known for some bad quality or deed. "the song has gained some notoriety in the press" -the condition of being famous or well-known especially for something bad : the state of being notorious

Prominence

Noun -the state of being important or famous "she came to prominence as an artist in the 1960s" -the fact or condition standing out from something by physically projecting or being particularly noticeable "radiographs showed enlargement of the right heart with prominence of the pulmonary outflow tract" -the state of being important, being famous, or being obvious.

Soundness

Noun -the state of being in a good condition; robustness -the quality of being based on valid reason or good judgment.

Redundancy /rəˈdəndənsē/

Noun -the state of being not or no longer needed or useful. "the redundancy of 19th-century heavy plant machinery" BRITISH -the state of being no longer employed because there is no more work available. "the factory's workers face redundancy" -dismissal from a job especially by layoff -a situation in which someone loses their job because their employer does not need them: "the economic downturn has meant 10,000 redundancies in the Northeast." -a situation in which something is unnecessary because it is more than is needed -the unnecessary use of more than one word or phrase meaning the same thing -the part of a message that can be eliminated without loss of essential information ENGINEERING -the inclusion of extra components which are not strictly necessary to functioning, in case of failure in other components. "a high degree of redundancy is built into the machinery installation"

Prosperity /präˈsperədē/

Noun -the state of being prosperous. "a long period of prosperity" -the condition of being successful or thriving; (especially) economic well-being KIDS DEFINITION -the state of being successful usually by making money

Oblivion /əˈblivēən/

Noun -the state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening. "they drank themselves into oblivion" -the state of being forgotten, especially by the public. "his name will fade into oblivion" -extinction. "only our armed forces stood between us and oblivion" HISTORICAL•LAW -amnesty or pardon. -the state of something that is not remembered, used, or thought about any more "the technology is destined/headed for oblivion." -the state of being unconscious or unaware : the state of not knowing what is going on around you -the state of being destroyed "the little village was bulldozed into oblivion to make way for the airport."

Incredulity

Noun -the state of being unwilling or unable to believe something -tendency not to believe readily; skepticism

Protestant Ethic /ˈprädəstənt ˈeTHik/

Noun -the view that a person's duty is to achieve success through hard work and thrift, such success being a sign that one is saved.

Languor /ˈlaNG(ɡ)ər/

Noun -the state or feeling, often pleasant, of tiredness or inertia. "he remembered the languor and warm happiness of those golden afternoons" -an oppressive stillness of the air. "the afternoon was hot, quiet, and heavy with languor" -weakness or weariness of body or mind "the languor of convalescence" -listless indolence or inertia "languor brought on by a hot summer afternoon"

Saturation /ˌsaCHəˈrāSH(ə)n/

Noun -the state or process that occurs when no more of something can be absorbed, combined with, or added. "the springs on the left slope of the hill lie below the level of permanent saturation" CHEMISTRY -the degree or extent to which something is dissolved or absorbed compared with the maximum possible, usually expressed as a percentage. "this mixture should give a reading of 45 to 50 percent saturation" -to a very full extent, especially beyond the point regarded as necessary or desirable. (used as modifier) "saturation bombing" -(especially in photography) the intensity of a color, expressed as the degree to which it differs from white. -complete infiltration; permeation -the presence in air of the most water possible under existent pressure and temperature -magnetization to the point beyond which a further increase in the intensity of the magnetizing force will produce no further magnetization -chromatic purity; freedom from dilution with white -degree of difference from the gray having the same lightness —used of an object color -degree of difference from the achromatic light-source color of the same brightness —used of a light-source color — compare HUE sense 2c -the supplying of a market with as much of a product as it will absorb -an overwhelming concentration of military forces or firepower

Complexity

Noun -the state or quality of being intricate or complicated. "an issue of great complexity" -a factor involved in a complicated process or situation "the complexities of family life"

Gaiety /ˈɡāədē/

Noun -the state or quality of being lighthearted or cheerful. "the sudden gaiety of children's laughter" -merrymaking or festivity. "he seemed to be a part of the gaiety, having a wonderful time" -elegance; finery DATED -entertainments or amusements. "people long for the enchantments and gaieties of the European cities" KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -happy and lively activity; merrymaking "there were sounds of gaiety outside, musical instruments, and noisy tongues, and laughter." -bright spirits or manner "the bad news ended their gaiety"

Elegant Variation

Noun -the stylistic fault of studiedly finding different ways to denote the same thing in a piece of writing, merely to avoid repetition.

Ridicule

Noun -the subjection of someone or something to contemptuous and dismissive language or behavior. -to make fun of someone in a cruel or harsh way

Conquest /ˈkänˌkwest/

Noun -the subjugation and assumption of control of a place or people by use of military force. "the conquest of the Aztecs by the Spanish" -a territory that has been gained by the use of subjugation and military force. "colonial conquests" -the invasion and assumption of control of England by William of Normandy in 1066. -the overcoming of a problem or weakness. "the conquest of inflation" -a person whose affection or favor has been won. "someone he could display before his friends as his latest conquest"

Conquest /ˈkänˌkwest/

Noun -the subjugation and assumption of control of a place or people by use of military force. "the conquest of the Aztecs by the Spanish" -a territory that has been gained by the use of subjugation and military force. "colonial conquests" -the invasion and assumption of control of England by William of Normandy in 1066. (Medieval History) -something that is gotten or gained especially by force -the overcoming of a problem or weakness. "the conquest of inflation" -a person whose affection or favor has been won. (Sex) "someone he could display before his friends as his latest conquest"

Syndication

Noun -the transfer of something for control or management by a group of individuals or organizations "the syndication of loans to investors" -the sale or licensing of material for publication or broadcasting by a number of television stations, periodicals, etc. "100 episodes of programming are available for television syndication" -leasing TV stations or cable networks the exclusive right to air TV shows

Upbringing /ˈəpˌbriNGiNG/

Noun -the treatment and instruction received by a child from its parents throughout its childhood. "his Quaker upbringing influenced his character" -early training; (especially) a particular way of bringing up a child "had a strict upbringing" -the way in which you are treated and educated when young, especially by your parents, especially in relation to the effect that this has on how you behave and make moral decisions "is it right to say all the crimes he committed were simply the result of his upbringing?"

Turf /ˈtərf/

Noun -the upper stratum of soil bound by grass and plant roots into a thick mat; (also) a piece of this -an artificial substitute for this (as on a playing field) -grass -territory that one considers to be under one's control "a sea lion colony of 30 or more animals sleeping or fighting to protect their turf." -a frequently or habitually visited place; stomping ground "he grew up in Pennsylvania, in the small town of Shillington outside Reading, and seemed tickled to be returning to his old turf." -territory "would have to play two of the last three games on hostile turf." -(also) a sphere of activity or influence "people who could hurt him on his own foreign-policy turf." -a track or course for horse racing -the sport or business of horse racing -peat -a piece of peat dried for fuel Verb -to cover with turf CHIEFLY BRITISH -to eject forcibly; kick—usually used with out

Contrivance /kənˈtrīvəns/

Noun -the use of skill to bring something about or create something. "the requirements of the system, by happy chance and some contrivance, can be summed up in an acronym" -a device, especially in literary or artistic composition, which gives a sense of artificiality. "the often tiresome contrivances of historical fiction" -a thing which is created skillfully and inventively to serve a particular purpose. "an assortment of electronic equipment and mechanical contrivances" -the act of intentionally arranging for something to happen by clever planning, or something that is arranged in this way -a plan to trick someone in order to get something for yourself, or the use of such a plan -a clever or complicated method of achieving a particular effect, especially in a story, that seems artificial -a complicated machine or piece of equipment designed for a particular purpose KIDS DEFINITION -something (as a scheme or a mechanical device) produced with skill and cleverness

Upon /əˈpän/

Preposition -more formal term for on, especially in abstract senses. "it was based upon two principles"

Fleece /flēs/

Noun -the woolly covering of a sheep or goat. "as the sheep came on board, we grabbed their long shaggy fleeces" -the amount of wool shorn from a sheep in a single piece at one time. "the shed can be used for storing fleeces" HERALDRY -a representation of a fleece suspended from a ring. -a soft warm fabric with a texture similar to sheep's wool, used as a lining material. "a reversible fleece jacket" -a jacket or other garment made from a fleece fabric. Verb INFORMAL -obtain a great deal of money from (someone), typically by overcharging or swindling them. "money that authorities say he fleeced from well-to-do acquaintances" LITERARY -cover as if with a fleece. "the sky was half blue, half fleeced with white clouds"

Pettiness /ˈpedēnəs/

Noun -undue concern with trivial matters, especially of a small-minded or spiteful nature. "the sheer pettiness of the officials was quite startling" -lack of importance or worth; triviality. "these awesome moments lift us above the pettiness of the world" -the quality or condition of being of little, lesser, or no importance, consequence, or merit;

Turbulence /ˈtərbyələns/

Noun -violent or unsteady movement of air or water, or of some other fluid. "the plane shuddered as it entered some turbulence" -conflict; confusion. "a time of political turbulence"

Fervency /ˈfər-vən(t)-sē/

Noun -warmth or intensity of feeling; ardor; zeal; fervor. -feelings of great warmth and intensity -is an intense, passionate feeling.

Rubble /ˈrəb(ə)l/

Noun -waste or rough fragments of stone, brick, concrete, etc., especially as the debris from the demolition of buildings. "two buildings collapsed, trapping scores of people in the rubble" -pieces of rough or undressed stone used in building walls, especially as filling for cavities. "the tower is built of stone rubble faced with ashlar"

Troubadour /ˈtrü-bə-ˌdȯr/

Noun -were poets and singers who used to travel around and perform to noble families in Italy and France in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries.

Prestige /preˈstēZH,preˈstēj/

Noun -widespread respect and admiration felt for someone or something on the basis of a perception of their achievements or quality. "he experienced a tremendous increase in prestige following his victory" -denoting something that arouses respect or admiration. "prestige wines" -the respect and admiration that someone or something gets for being successful or important "her career as a diplomat has brought her enormous prestige." -standing or estimation in the eyes of people : weight or credit in general opinion -commanding position in people's minds

Proletariat /ˌprōləˈterēət/

Noun -workers or working-class people, regarded collectively (often used with reference to Marxism). "the growth of the industrial proletariat" -the lowest class of citizens in ancient Rome.

Harlot /ˈhärlət/

Noun ARCHAIC - a person who has sex with someone in exchange for money; a prostitute DEROGATORY•DATED -a woman who has many casual sexual encounters or relationships.

Troth /trôTH,träTH,trōTH/

Noun ARCHAIC•FORMAL -faith or loyalty when pledged in a solemn agreement or undertaking. "a token of troth" -is loyal or pledged faithfulness ARCHAIC -truth.

Poltroon /pälˈtro͞on/

Noun ARCHAIC•LITERARY -an utter coward. "come on, you poltroons!"

Faerie /ˈferē/

Noun ARCHAIC•LITERARY -fairyland. "the world of faerie" -a fairy. -imaginary; mythical. "faerie dragons"

Roué /ro͞oˈā/

Noun DATED -a debauched man, especially an elderly one. "he had lived the life of a roué in the fleshpots of London and Paris" -a man devoted to a life of sensual pleasure : RAKE

Hardihood /ˈhärdēˌho͝od/

Noun DATED -boldness; daring.

Mimesis /məˈmēsis/

Noun FORMAL•TECHNICAL -representation or imitation of the real world in art and literature. "Barth has always detached his use of plot from mimesis" -the deliberate imitation of the behavior of one group of people by another group as a factor in social change. "culture is organized in terms of mimesis and desire" ZOOLOGY -another term for mimicry.

Buodoir /ˈbo͞oˌdwär/

Noun HISTORICAL•HUMOROUS -a woman's bedroom or private room. -a woman's dressing room, bedroom, or private sitting room

Come-on /ˈkəmˌän/

Noun INFORMAL -a gesture or remark that is intended to attract someone sexually. "she was giving me the come-on" -a marketing ploy, such as a free or cheap offer. "introductory come-on rates" -something that persuades one to perform an action for pleasure or gain "the spectacular sale was enough of a come-on to get many shoppers to try the store for the first time"

Puff piece /pəf pēs/

Noun INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -an article or story in the media that is excessively complimentary about a person, product, event, etc. -a story, news report, etc., that praises someone or something too much "the story was just another puff piece to help the mayor get reelected."

Nullity /ˈnələdē/

Noun LAW -an act or thing that is legally void. the state of being legally void; invalidity, especially of a marriage. -a thing of no importance or worth. -nothingness. -a contract or act considered void by virtue of a transgression of the public order, interest, law, or morals "a bigamous marriage is an absolute nullity"

Thrall /THrôl/

Noun LITERARY -the state of being in someone's power or having great power over someone. "the town was in thrall to a villain" HISTORICAL -a slave, servant, or captive.

Behest /bəˈhest/

Noun LITERARY -a person's orders or command. "they had assembled at his behest" -an authoritative order; command "the meeting was called at the senator's behest." -an urgent prompting "at the behest of her friends, she read the poem aloud."

Perfidy /ˈpərfədē/

Noun LITERARY -deceitfulness; untrustworthiness. "it was an example of his perfidy" -the quality or state of being faithless or disloyal; treachery -an act or an instance of disloyalty -the act of betraying someone or something -the state of not being loyal

Alongside

Preposition -next to someone or something -close to the side of; next to. -together and in cooperation with -at the same time as or in coexistence with

Curb /kərb/

Noun NORTH AMERICAN -a stone or concrete edging to a street or path. -a check or restraint on something. "curbs on the powers of labor unions" -a type of bit that is widely used in western riding. In English riding it is usually only used with a snaffle as part of a double bridle. -a swelling on the back of a horse's hock, caused by spraining a ligament. Verb -restrain or keep in check. "she promised she would curb her temper" -restrain (a horse) by means of a curb. "both men were instinctively curbing their horses" US -lead (a dog being walked) near the curb to urinate or defecate, in order to avoid soiling buildings, sidewalks, etc. -to control or check

Plane /plān/

Noun (1) -a flat surface on which a straight line joining any two points on it would wholly lie. (Mathematics) "the horizontal plane" -an imaginary flat surface through or joining material objects. (Mathematics) "the planets orbit the sun in roughly the same plane" -a flat or level surface of a material object. "the plane of his forehead" -a flat surface producing lift by the action of air or water over and under it. (Transportation; Physics) -a level of existence, thought, or development. "everything is connected on the spiritual plane" Adjective -completely level or flat. "a plane surface" -relating to only two-dimensional surfaces or magnitudes. (Mathematics) "plane and solid geometry" Verb -(of a bird or an airborne object) soar without moving the wings; glide. (Transportation) "a bird planed down toward the water below" -(of a boat, surfboard, etc.) skim over the surface of water as a result of lift produced hydrodynamically. (Transportation) ——————-—-—-—-—-—-—-— Noun (2) -an airplane. (Transportation) "a plane crash" Verb -travel in an airplane. (Transportation) "I had planed into the large air terminal at Los Angeles" —————————————————— Noun (3) -a tool consisting of a block with a projecting steel blade, used to smooth a wooden or other surface by paring shavings from it. (Tools; Carpentry) Verb -smooth (wood or other material) with a plane. (Carpentry) "plane the edges of the wood to a smooth finish" -reduce or remove (redundant material) with a plane. "high areas can be planed down" ARCHAIC -make smooth or level. "let us exert our abilities to plane the way for his passage" ————————————————— Noun (4) -a tall spreading tree of the northern hemisphere, with maple-like leaves and bark that peels in uneven patches. (Plant)

Coach

Noun (1) -a horse-drawn carriage, especially a closed one -a railroad car -economy class seating in an aircraft or train -a bus, especially one that is comfortably equipped and used for longer journeys Noun (2) -train or instruct (a team or player) -give (someone) extra or private teaching -teach (a subject or sport) as a coach -prompt or urge (someone) with instructions Verb -travel by coach Adverb -in economy class accommodations in an aircraft or train

Stud /stəd/

Noun (1) -a large-headed piece of metal that pierces and projects from a surface, especially for decoration. -an item of jewelry in the form of a piece of metal, precious stone, or other ornament attached to a pin or shaft that passes through a piercing in the body. "she wore a pair of gold studs" -a fastener consisting of two buttons joined with a bar, used in formal wear to fasten a shirtfront or to fasten a collar to a shirt. "a collar stud" BRITISH -a small projection fixed to the base of footwear, especially athletic shoes, to allow the wearer to grip the ground. -a small metal piece set into the tire of a motor vehicle to improve roadholding in slippery conditions. -an upright support in the wall of a building to which sheathing, drywall, etc., are attached. "lath and plaster on timber studs" US -the height of a room as indicated by the length of a timber wall stud. -a rivet or crosspiece in each link of a chain cable. Verb (1) -decorate or augment (something) with many studs or similar small objects. "a dagger studded with precious diamonds" -strew or cover (something) with a scattering of small objects or features. "the sky was clear and studded with stars" Noun (2) -an establishment where horses or other domesticated animals are kept for breeding. "a stud farm" -a collection of horses or other domesticated animals belonging to one person. "he kept a large stud of racehorses" -a stallion. INFORMAL -a young man thought to be very active sexually or regarded as a good sexual partner. "a rugged, hairy-chested stud" -a tough person -a form of poker in which the first card of a player's hand is dealt face down and the others face up, with betting after each round of the deal.

Slough /ˈslü/

Noun (1) -a place of deep mud or mire -or less commonly slew or slue -swamp -an inlet on a river; also backwater -a creek in a marsh or tide flat -a state of moral degradation or spiritual dejection Verb (1) -to engulf in a slough -to plod through or as if through mud; slog Noun (2) -the cast-off skin of a snake -a mass of dead tissue separating from an ulcer -something that may be shed or cast off Verb (2) -to become shed or cast off -to cast off one's skin -to separate in the form of dead tissue from living tissue -to crumble slowly and fall away -to cast off -to get rid of or discard as irksome, objectionable, or disadvantageous —usually used with off -to dispose of (a losing card in bridge) by discarding KIDS DEFINITION Noun -a wet marshy or muddy place

Oratory /ˈôrəˌtôrē,ˈärəˌtôrē/

Noun (1) -a small chapel, especially for private worship. -(in the Roman Catholic Church) a society of priests without vows, especially the Oratory of St. Philip Neri founded in 1564. Noun (2) -the art or practice of formal speaking in public. "the gift of persuasive oratory" -exaggerated, eloquent, or highly colored language. "learned discussions degenerated into pompous oratory"

Mast /mast/

Noun (1) -a tall upright post, spar, or other structure on a ship or boat, in sailing vessels generally carrying a sail or sails. -a tall upright structure on land, especially a flagpole or a television or radio transmitter. US -(in the US Navy) a session of court presided over by the captain of a ship, especially to hear cases of minor offenses. Noun (2) -the fruit of beech, oak, chestnut, and other forest trees, especially as food for pigs and wild animals.

Rigor /ˈriɡər/

Noun (1) MEDICINE -a sudden feeling of cold with shivering accompanied by a rise in temperature, often with copious sweating, especially at the onset or height of a fever. -short for rigor mortis. Noun (2) -the quality of being extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate. "his analysis is lacking in rigor" -demanding, difficult, or extreme conditions. "the rigors of a harsh winter"

Shenanigans /SHəˈnanəɡənz/

Noun • Informal -secret or dishonest activity or maneuvering. "widespread financial shenanigans had ruined the fortunes of many" -silly or high-spirited behavior; mischief.

Amidst or Amid /ə-​ˈmidst/

Preposition -in or into the middle of; surrounded by; among "amid the crowd" -during "amid the fighting" -with the accompaniment of "resigned amid rumors of misconduct"

Beneath /bəˈnēTH/

Preposition -extending or directly underneath, typically with close contact. "in the labyrinths beneath central Moscow" -underneath so as to be hidden, covered, or protected. "unaltered even after years beneath the sea" -at a lower level or layer than. "beneath this floor there's a cellar" -lower in grade or rank than. "relegated to the rank beneath theirs" -considered of lower status or worth than. "taking jobs beneath my abilities" -behind (a physical surface). "they found another layer beneath the stucco" -behind or hidden behind (an appearance). "beneath the gloss of success" -at the foot of "a camp beneath a hill" -not suitable to the rank of; unworthy of "a job that is beneath his dignity" -under the control, pressure, or influence of "the chair sagged beneath his weight" -concealed by; under the guise of "a warm heart beneath a gruff manner" Adverb -extending or directly underneath something. "a house built on stilts to allow air to circulate beneath" -at a lower level or layer. "the runways had cracked open, exposing the black earth beneath" -in or to a lower position; below "the mountains and the towns beneath" -directly under; underneath "look at the illustration and read what is beneath." -behind or hidden behind an appearance. "the smile revealed the evil beneath"

Repress

Repressed Adjective -restrained, inhibited, or oppressed "repressed indigenous groups" -(of a thought, feeling, or desire) kept suppressed and unconscious in one's mind "repressed memories" -characterized by the repression of thoughts or desires, especially sexual ones "a very repressed, almost Victorian, household" Repress Verb -subdue (someone or something) by force -restrain, prevent, or inhibit (the expression or development of something) -suppress (a thought, feeling, or desire) in oneself so that it becomes or remains unconscious "the thought that he had killed his brother was so terrible that he repressed it"

Fawn /fôn/

Verb -(of a deer) produce young. "the forest was closed for hunting when the does were fawning" -(of a person) give a servile display of exaggerated flattery or affection, typically in order to gain favor or advantage. -(of an animal, especially a dog) show slavish devotion, especially by crawling and rubbing against someone. "the dogs started fawning on me" Adjective (+ing) -displaying exaggerated flattery or affection; obsequious. "fawning adoration" -seeking or used to seek approval or favor by means of flattery "they are excellent emblems of fawning yet fickle fandom"

Gallop /ˈɡaləp/

Verb -(of a horse) go at the pace of a gallop. "we galloped along the sand" -make (a horse) gallop. "Fred galloped the horse off to the start" -(of a person) run fast and rather boisterously. "Leota galloped in from the halfway line" -(of a process or time) progress rapidly in a seemingly uncontrollable manner. "panic about the deadline galloping toward them" -to progress or ride at a gallop -to run fast Noun -a rapid or hasty progression or pace KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -the fast springing way an animal with four feet and especially a horse runs when all four of its feet leave the ground at the same time

Seethe /sēT͟H/

Verb -(of a liquid) bubble up as a result of being boiled. "the brew foamed and seethed" -cook (food) by boiling it in a liquid. "others were cut into joints and seethed in cauldrons made of the animal's own skins" -(of a person) be filled with intense but unexpressed anger. "inwardly he was seething at the slight to his authority" -(of a place) be crowded with people or things moving about in a rapid or hectic way. "the entire cellar was seething with spiders" -(of a crowd of people) move in a rapid or hectic way. "we cascaded down the stairs and seethed across the station"

Reverberate /rəˈvərbəˌrāt/

Verb -(of a loud noise) be repeated several times as an echo. "her deep booming laugh reverberated around the room" -(of a place) appear to vibrate or be disturbed because of a loud noise. "the hall reverberated with gaiety and laughter" ARCHAIC -return or re-echo (a sound). "oft did the cliffs reverberate the sound" -have continuing and serious effects. "the statements by the professor reverberated through the capitol"

Lynch /lin(t)SH/

Verb -(of a mob) kill (someone), especially by hanging, for an alleged offense with or without a legal trial. "her father had been lynched for a crime he didn't commit" -to put to death (as by hanging) by mob action without legal approval or permission "the accused killer was lynched by an angry mob."

Abdicate /ˈabdəˌkāt/

Verb -(of a monarch) renounce one's throne. "in 1918 Kaiser Wilhelm abdicated as German emperor" -fail to fulfill or undertake (a responsibility or duty). "the secretary of state should not abdicate from leadership on educational issues" -to renounce a throne, high office, dignity, or function "the king was forced to abdicate." -to relinquish (something, such as sovereign power) formally "abdicate a throne" -to cast off; discard "abdicate a responsibility"

Engulf /inˈɡəlf,enˈɡəlf/

Verb -(of a natural force) sweep over (something) so as to surround or cover it completely. "the cafe was engulfed in flames" -eat or swallow (something) whole. "the toad can engulf nestling birds"

Languish /ˈlaNGɡwiSH/

Verb -(of a person or other living thing) lose or lack vitality; grow weak or feeble. "plants may appear to be languishing simply because they are dormant" -fail to make progress or be successful. "foreign stocks are still languishing" ARCHAIC -pine with love or grief. "she still languished after Richard" ARCHAIC -assume or display a sentimentally tender or melancholy expression or tone. "when a visitor comes in, she smiles and languishes" -suffer from being forced to remain in an unpleasant place or situation. "he has been languishing in jail since 1974" -to suffer neglect "the bill languished in the Senate for eight months" -to continue for a long time without activity or progress in an unpleasant or unwanted situation

Scurry /ˈskərē/

Verb -(of a person or small animal) move hurriedly with short quick steps. "pedestrians scurried for cover" Noun -a situation of hurried and confused movement. "I was in such a scurry"

Swelter /ˈsweltər/

Verb -(of a person or the atmosphere at a particular time or place) be uncomfortably hot. "Barney sweltered in his doorman's uniform" -to suffer, sweat, or be faint from heat -to become exceedingly hot "in summer, the place swelters" Noun -an uncomfortably hot atmosphere. "the swelter of an August day" -an excited or overwrought state of mind; sweat "in a swelter"

Await

Verb -(of a person) wait for (an event) -(of an event or circumstance) be in store for (someone)

Intoxicate /inˈtäksəkāt/

Verb -(of alcoholic drink or a drug) cause (someone) to lose control of their faculties or behavior. "we don't allow people into sessions if they are intoxicated by alcohol or drugs" -excite or exhilarate (someone). "except for NYC and LA, no American city has so intoxicated and infuriated writers" ARCHAIC -poison (someone). Adjective /inˈtäksəkādiNG/ -(of alcoholic drink or a drug) liable to cause intoxication.

Yield

Verb -(of an action or process) produce or deliver (a result or gain) "this method yields the same results" -(of a financial or commercial process or transaction) generate (a specified financial return) "such investments yield direct cash returns" -give way to arguments, demands, or pressure "the Western powers now yielded when they should have resisted" -relinquish possession of (something); give (something) up "they might yield up their secrets" -cease to argue about "I yielded the point" -(especially in a legislature) allow another the right to speak in a debate "I yield to the gentleman from Kentucky" -give right or way to other traffic -(of a mass or structure) give way under force or pressure "he reeled into the house as the door yielded" Noun -the full amount of an agricultural or industrial product -the amount of money brought in, e.g., interest from an investment or revenue from a tax; return

Frolic /ˈfrälik/

Verb -(of an animal or person) play and move about cheerfully, excitedly, or energetically. "Edward frolicked on the sand" -play about with someone in a flirtatious or sexual way. "he denied allegations that he frolicked with a secretary" Adjective -full of fun; merry "contrasting the stern anxiety of his present mood with the frolic spirit of the preceding year" Verb -to amuse oneself : make merry "I didn't choose the school so I could frolic in the quad." -to play and run about happily; romp "children frolicking in the park." Noun -a playful or mischievous action -an occasion or scene of fun; party -fun; merriment

Belie /bəˈlī/

Verb -(of an appearance) fail to give a true notion or impression of (something); disguise or contradict. "his lively, alert manner belied his years" -fail to fulfill or justify (a claim or expectation); betray. "the notebooks belie Darwin's later recollection" -to picture falsely; misrepresent; disguise. "the new teacher's strictness belied her usual easygoing nature." -to show to be false; contradict -to disappoint or leave unfulfilled.

Prompt

Verb -(of an event) cause or bring about (an action or feeling) -cause (someone) to take a course of action -assist or encourage (a hesitating speaker) to say something Adjective -done without delay; immediate -(of a person) acting without delay

Billow /ˈbilō/

Verb -(of fabric) fill with air and swell outward. "her dress billowed out around her" -(of smoke, cloud, or steam) move or flow outward with an undulating motion. "smoke was billowing from the chimney" -to rise or roll in waves or surges "the billowing sea" -to bulge or swell out (as through action of the wind) "billowing clouds" Noun -wave; (especially) a great wave or surge of water "the rolling billows of the sea" -a rolling mass (as of flame or smoke) that resembles a high wave "billows of smoke poured out of the building."

Course /kôrs/

Verb -(of liquid) move without obstruction; flow. "tears were coursing down her cheeks" -pursue (game, especially hares) with greyhounds using sight rather than scent. "many of the hares coursed escaped unharmed" Noun -the sport of hunting game animals such as hares with greyhounds using sight rather than scent. "hare coursing"

Emanate /ˈeməˌnāt/

Verb -(of something abstract but perceptible) issue or spread out from (a source). "warmth emanated from the fireplace" -originate from; be produced by. "the proposals emanated from a committee" -give out or emit (something abstract but perceptible). "he emanated a powerful brooding air"

Emanate /ˈeməˌnāt/

Verb -(of something abstract but perceptible) issue or spread out from (a source). "warmth emanated from the fireplace" -originate from; be produced by. "the proposals emanated from a committee" -give out or emit (something abstract but perceptible). "he emanated a powerful brooding air" -to come out from a source "a sweet scent emanating from the blossoms" -emit "she seems to emanate an air of serenity" -to give off or out "the teacher's face emanated kindness"

Shine /SHīn/

Verb -(of the sun or another source of light) give out a bright light. "the sun shone through the window" -glow or be bright with reflected light. "I could see his eyes shining in the light of the fire" -(of a person's eyes) be bright with emotion. "her eyes shone as she spoke about family values" -direct (a flashlight or other light) somewhere in order to see something in the dark. "an usher shines his flashlight into the boys' faces" -be very talented or perform very well. "she shines at comedy" -make (an object made of leather, metal, or wood) bright by rubbing it; polish. "his shoes were shined to perfection"

Stagnate /ˈstaɡˌnāt/

Verb -(of water or air) cease to flow or move; become stagnant. -cease developing; become inactive or dull. "teaching can easily stagnate into a set of routines"

Dissipate /ˈdisəˌpāt/

Verb -(with reference to a feeling or other intangible thing) disappear or cause to disappear. "the concern she'd felt for him had wholly dissipated" -disperse or scatter. "the cloud of smoke dissipated" -squander or fritter away (money, energy, or resources). "he had dissipated his entire fortune"

Dissipate /ˈdisəˌpāt/

Verb -(with reference to a feeling or other intangible thing) disappear or cause to disappear. "the concern she'd felt for him had wholly dissipated" -disperse or scatter. "the cloud of smoke dissipated" -squander or fritter away (money, energy, or resources). "he had dissipated his entire fortune" PHYSICS -cause (energy) to be lost, typically by converting it to heat. "no power is dissipated in this sort of control element" -to lose (heat, electricity, etc.) irrecoverably -to break up and drive off "dissipate a crowd" -to cause to spread thin or scatter and gradually vanish "one's sympathy is eventually dissipated" -to spend or use up wastefully or foolishly "dissipated the family fortune in reckless business ventures." -to be extravagant or dissolute in the pursuit of pleasure; (especially) to drink to excess "his extended dissipating of the night before" LEGAL -to use (marital assets) for one's own benefit and to the exclusion of one's spouse for a purpose unrelated to the marriage at a time when the marriage is undergoing an irretrievable breakdown

Redound /rəˈdound/

Verb -FORMAL contribute greatly to (a person's credit or honor). "his latest diplomatic effort will redound to his credit" ARCHAIC -come back upon; rebound on. "may his sin redound upon his head!" -archaic: to become swollen; overflow -to have a particular result

Stricken /ˈstrikən/

Verb -a past participle of strike Adjective -seriously affected by an undesirable condition or unpleasant feeling. "the pilot landed the stricken aircraft" -(of a person's face or appearance) showing great distress. "she looked at Anne's stricken face, contorted with worry" -affected by something overwhelming

Desert /dəˈzərt/

Verb -abandon (a person, cause, or organization) in a way considered disloyal or treacherous. "we feel our public representatives have deserted us" -(of a number of people) leave (a place), causing it to appear empty. "good weather came after the summer hordes had deserted the beaches" -(of a quality or ability) fail (someone), especially at a crucial moment when most needed. "her luck deserted her" MILITARY -(of a soldier) illegally run away from military service. "his life in the regiment had been such a hell that he decided to desert" -to leave (a cause or party) often in order to take up another "the volunteer became disillusioned with his candidate and deserted to a political rival"

Befriend /bəˈfrend/

Verb -act as a friend to (someone) by offering help or support. "he makes a point of befriending newcomers to Parliament"

Lord /lôrd/

Verb -act in a superior and domineering manner toward (someone). "when we were at school, you used to lord it over us" ARCHAIC -confer the title of Lord upon. "Sir Cadwallader Pleadwell has been lately lorded"

Stoke /stōk/

Verb -add coal or other solid fuel to (a fire, furnace, boiler, etc.). "he stoked up the barbecue" -encourage or incite (a strong emotion or tendency). "his composure had the effect of stoking her anger" INFORMAL -consume a large quantity of food or drink to give one energy. "Carol was at the coffee machine, stoking up for the day" -to poke or stir up (a fire, flames, etc.) : supply with fuel -to feed abundantly -to increase the activity, intensity, or amount of "limiting the number of cars available ... will help stoke demand for the car"

Crouch /krouCH/

Verb -adopt a position where the knees are bent and the upper body is brought forward and down, sometimes to avoid detection or to defend oneself. "we crouched down in the trench" Noun -a crouching stance or posture. "he dropped into a defensive crouch"

Garland /ˈɡärlənd/

Verb -adorn or crown with a garland. "they were garlanded with flowers" -to form into a garland Noun -a circular or spiral arrangement of intertwined material (such as flowers or leaves) -anthology, collection KIDS DEFINITION Noun -a wreath or rope of material (as leaves or flowers) Verb -to form into or decorate with a garland "flowers garlanded her head."

Churn /CHərn/

Verb -agitate or turn (milk or cream) in a machine in order to produce butter. "the cream is ripened before it is churned" -produce (butter) by churning. "the women were churning butter and making cheese" -(with reference to liquid) move or cause to move about vigorously. "the seas churned" -break up the surface of (an area of ground). "vast crowds had churned the area into a sea of mud" -have an unpleasant disturbed feeling. "her stomach was churning at the thought of the ordeal" -(of a broker) encourage frequent turnover of (investments) in order to generate commission. "these brokers churn the client's portfolio to generate an income for themselves"

Unpack

Verb -analyze (something) into its component elements "let us unpack this question"

Nag

Verb -annoy or irritate (a person) with persistent fault-finding or continuous urging -be persistently painful, troublesome, or worrying to Adjective -(of a person) constantly harassing someone to do something -persistently painful or worrying -(disapproving) to keep complaining to someone about their behavior or keep asking them to do something -to worry or irritate you continuously

Dread /dred/

Verb -anticipate with great apprehension or fear. "Jane was dreading the party" ARCHAIC -regard with great awe or reverence. INFORMAL -a person with dreadlocks. -dreadlocks. "Lyon combed his fingers through Curtis' dreads" -to feel extremely worried or frightened about something that is going to happen or that might happen

Purport /pərˈpôrt/

Verb -appear or claim to be or do something, especially falsely; profess. "she is not the person she purports to be" Adjective -appearing or stated to be true, though not necessarily so; alleged. "the purported marriage was void" -said to be true or real but not definitely true or real

Drape /drāp/

Verb -arrange (cloth or clothing) loosely or casually on or around something. "she draped a shawl around her shoulders" -adorn, cover, or wrap (someone or something) loosely with folds of cloth. "the body was draped in a blanket" -let (oneself or a part of one's body) rest somewhere in a casual or relaxed way. "he draped an arm around her shoulders" -(of fabric) hang or be able to hang in loose, graceful folds. "velvet drapes beautifully" -to arrange in flowing lines or folds -to loosely place or hang (something) -to hang in a pleasing way -to cover (someone or something) with a cloth

Apparently

Verb -as far as one knows or can see -to indicate that the information you are giving is something that you have heard, but you are not certain that it is true

Muster /ˈməstər/

Verb -assemble (troops), especially for inspection or in preparation for battle. "17,000 men had been mustered on Haldon Hill" -(of troops) come together for inspection or preparation. "the cavalrymen mustered beside the other regiments" -(of a group of people) gather together. "reporters mustered outside her house" -collect or assemble (a number or amount). "the city council was unable to muster enough votes to pass the measure" -summon up (a particular feeling, attitude, or response). "he replied with as much dignity as he could muster" Noun -a formal gathering of troops, especially for inspection, display, or exercise. "he attended the musters, which were called to train all able-bodied men" -critical examination "slipshod work that would never pass muster" -an assembled group; collection "a muster of biographical facts" -inventory "were sent ... to take the musters of this expedition" -short for muster roll. RARE -a group of peacocks. "the sound was like the cry of a muster of peacocks"

Suppose

Verb -assume that something is the case on the basis of evidence or probability but without proof or certain knowledge. -used to make a suggestion or a hesitant admission "suppose we leave this to the police" -used to introduce hypothesis and trace or ask about what follows from it "suppose he had been murdered—what then?" -(of a theory or argument) assume or require that something is the case as a precondition "the procedure supposes that a will has already been proved" -believe to exist or to possess a specified characteristic "he supposed the girl to be about twelve" -be required to do something because of the position one is in or an agreement one has made "I'm supposed to be meeting someone at the airport" -be forbidden to do something "I shouldn't have been in the kitchen—I'm not supposed to go in there"

Constitute /ˈkänstəˌt(y)o͞ot/

Verb -be (a part) of a whole. "single parents constitute a great proportion of the poor" -(of people or things) combine to form (a whole). "there were enough members present to constitute a quorum" -be or be equivalent to (something). "his failure to act constituted a breach of duty" -to qualify as "a letter can constitute a will" -give legal or constitutional form to (an institution); establish by law. "the superior courts were constituted by the Judicature Acts 1873-5" -make up, form, compose "12 months constitute a year." -set up, establish: such as a. enact "regulations as are constituted by the government" b. found "constitute a provisional government" c. to give due or lawful form to "an agreement constituted by writing" -to legally process -to appoint to an office, function, or dignity "legal authority constitutes all magistrates."

Epitomize /əˈpidəˌmīz/

Verb -be a perfect example of. "their careers epitomized the problems faced by their generation" ARCHAIC -give a summary of (a written work). "for the benefit of our readers, we will epitomize the pamphlet" -to serve as the typical or ideal example of -to make or give an epitome of

Denote

Verb -be a sign of; indicate "this mark denotes purity and quality" -stand as a name or symbol for "the level of output per firm, denoted by X"

Denote /dəˈnōt/

Verb -be a sign of; indicate. "this mark denotes purity and quality" -stand as a name or symbol for. "the level of output per firm, denoted by X" -to serve as an indication of; betoken "the swollen bellies that denote starvation" -to serve as an arbitrary mark for "red flares denoting danger" -to make known; announce "his crestfallen look denoted his distress" -to serve as a linguistic expression of the notion of; mean "in the southern U.S., the word "toboggan" denotes a stocking cap" -to stand for; designate "the symbol / denotes "or," "and or," or "per"

Muse /myo͞oz/

Verb -be absorbed in thought. "he was musing on the problems he faced" -say to oneself in a thoughtful manner. ""I think I've seen him somewhere before," mused Rachel" -gaze thoughtfully at. "he sat on the edge of the bank, legs dangling, eyes musing on the water"

Suffice

Verb -be enough or adequate "a quick look should suffice" -meet the needs of "simple mediocrity cannot suffice them"

Dote /dōt/

Verb -be extremely and uncritically fond of. "she doted on her two young children" SE ASIAN -lavish (someone) with affection or gifts. "having an older brother who dotes you a lot is the best thing ever" ARCHAIC -be silly or feebleminded, especially as a result of old age. "the parson is now old and dotes" -to exhibit mental decline of or like that of old age : be in one's dotage -to be lavish or excessive in one's attention, fondness, or affection —usually used with on "doted on her only grandchild"

Enamor /iˈnamər,eˈnamər/

Verb -be filled with a feeling of love for. "it is not difficult to see why Edward is enamored of her" -have a liking or admiration for. "she was truly enamored of New York"

Implore /imˈplôr/

Verb -beg someone earnestly or desperately to do something. "he implored her to change her mind" ARCHAIC -beg earnestly for. "I implore mercy"

Abase /əˈbās/

Verb -behave in a way that belittles or degrades (someone). "I watched my colleagues abasing themselves before the board of trustees" FORMAL -to lower in rank, office, prestige, or esteem "abase oneself" ARCHAIC -to lower physically "as we enter among them the great elephant makes us a bow in the best style of elephantine courtesy, bending lowly down his mountain bulk, with trunk abased and leg thrust out behind."

Bow /bou/

Verb -bend the head or upper part of the body as a sign of respect, greeting, or shame. "he turned and bowed to his father" -express (thanks, agreement, or other sentiments) by bending one's head respectfully. "he looked at Hector before bowing grave thanks" -bend the body in order to see or concentrate. "my mother sat bowed over a library book" -bend with age or under pressure. "the tree next to the house bowed in the wind" -cause to bend. "the vines were bowed down with flowers" NORTH AMERICAN -(of a movie or product) be premiered or launched. "the trailer bowed in theaters nationwide on December 23" Noun -an act of bending the head or upper body as a sign of respect or greeting. "the man gave a little bow"

Lavish

Verb -bestow something in generous or extravagant quantities on "the media couldn't lavish enough praise on the film" -cover something thickly or liberally with "she lavished our son with kisses"

Gnaw /nô/

Verb -bite at or nibble something persistently. "watching a dog gnaw at a big bone" -bite at or nibble (something). "she sat gnawing her underlip" -cause persistent and wearing distress or anxiety. "the doubts continued to gnaw at me" Adjective (+ing) -persistently worrying or distressing. "that gnawing pain in her stomach"

Winnow /ˈwinō/

Verb -blow a current of air through (grain) in order to remove the chaff. "a combine cuts, threshes, and winnows the grain in one operation" -remove (chaff) from grain. "women winnow the chaff from piles of unhusked rice" -remove (people or things) from a group until only the best ones are left. "guidelines that would help winnow out those not fit to be soldiers" -find or identify (a valuable or useful part of something). "amidst this welter of confusing signals, it's difficult to winnow out the truth" LITERARY -(of the wind) blow. "the autumn wind winnowing its way through the grass" -(of a bird) fan (the air) with its wings. "the emperors of the sky winnowing the air"

Regurgitate /rəˈɡərjəˌtāt/

Verb -bring (swallowed food) up again to the mouth. "gulls regurgitate food for the chicks" MEDICINE -(of a fluid) flow through a vessel or valve in the body in a direction opposite to normal. "an incompetent mitral valve allows blood to regurgitate into the left atrium throughout ventricular contraction" -repeat (information) without analyzing or comprehending it. "facts that can then be regurgitated at examinations"

Rouse /rouz/

Verb -bring out of sleep; awaken. "she was roused from a deep sleep by a hand on her shoulder" -cease to sleep or to be inactive; wake up. "she roused and looked around" -startle out of inactivity; cause to become active. "once the enemy camp was roused, they would move on the castle" -startle (game) from a lair or cover. -cause to feel angry or excited. "the crowds were roused to fever pitch by the drama of the race" -cause or give rise to (an emotion or feeling). "his evasiveness roused my curiosity" -stir (a liquid, especially beer while brewing). "rouse the beer as the hops are introduced" ARCHAIC•NAUTICAL -haul (something) vigorously in the specified direction. "rouse the cable out" SIMPLE DEFINITION -to wake (someone) from sleep -to cause (someone who is tired or not interested); to become active -to cause (an emotional response) in someone

Conjure

Verb -call upon (a spirit or ghost) to appear, by means of a magic ritual. -make (something) appear unexpectedly or seemingly from nowhere as if by magic -call (an image) to the mind "she had forgotten how to conjure up the image of her mother's face" -(of a word, sound, smell, etc.) cause someone to feel or think of something "one scent cab conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake"

Lull /ləl/

Verb -calm or send to sleep, typically with soothing sounds or movements. "the rhythm of the boat lulled her to sleep" -cause (someone) to feel deceptively secure or confident. "the rarity of earthquakes there has lulled people into a false sense of security" -(of noise or a storm) abate or fall quiet. "conversation lulled for an hour"

Enthrall /inˈTHrôl,enˈTHrôl/

Verb -capture the fascinated attention of. "she had been so enthralled by the adventure that she had hardly noticed the cold" ARCHAIC -enslave.

Whittle /ˈ(h)widl/

Verb -carve (wood) into an object by repeatedly cutting small slices from it. -carve (an object) from wood by repeatedly cutting small slices from it. -reduce something in size, amount, or extent by a gradual series of steps. "the short list of fifteen was whittled down to five"

Ensnare /ənˈsner/

Verb -catch in or as in a trap. "they were ensnared in downtown traffic" -to catch (an animal or person) in a trap or in a place from which there is no escape

Ensnare /ənˈsner/

Verb -catch in or as in a trap. "they were ensnared in downtown traffic" -to catch or get control of something or someone "spiders ensnare flies and other insects in their webs." -you gain power over them, especially by using dishonest or deceitful methods. "feminism is simply another device to ensnare women."

Initiate /iˈniSHēˌāt/

Verb -cause (a process or action) to begin. "he proposes to initiate discussions on planning procedures" -admit (someone) into a secret or obscure society or group, typically with a ritual. "she had been formally initiated into the sorority" -introduce someone to (a particular activity or skill, especially a difficult or obscure one). "they were initiated into the mysteries of trigonometry" Noun /iˈniSHiˌādəd/ -a small group of people who share obscure knowledge. "it's a secret sign to the initiated"

Precipitate

Verb -cause (an event or situation, typically one that is bad or undesirable) to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely. "the incident precipitated a political crisis" -cause something to move suddenly and with force "suddenly the ladder broke, precipitating them down into a heap"

Divert /dəˈvərt,dīˈvərt/

Verb -cause (someone or something) to change course or turn from one direction to another. "a scheme to divert water from the river to irrigate agricultural land" -(of a vehicle or person) change course. "an aircraft has diverted and will be with you shortly" -reallocate (something, especially money or resources) to a different purpose. "more of their advertising budget was diverted into promotions" -draw (the attention) of someone from something. "public relations policies are sometimes intended to divert attention away from criticism" -entertain or amuse. "although the audience members were diverted by this new symphony, critics disliked it"

Bewilder /bəˈwildər/

Verb -cause (someone) to become perplexed and confused. "she was bewildered by his sudden change of mood" Adjective (+ed) -perplexed and confused; very puzzled. "he saw the bewildered look on my face"

Mortify /ˈmôrdəˌfī/

Verb -cause (someone) to feel embarrassed, ashamed, or humiliated. "she was mortified to see her wrinkles in the mirror" -subdue (the body or its needs and desires) by self-denial or discipline. "return to heaven by mortifying the flesh" -(of flesh) be affected by gangrene or necrosis. "the cut in Henry's arm had mortified" Adjective /ˈmôrdəˌfīiNG/ -causing great embarrassment or shame. "how mortifying to find that he was right"

Mislead /misˈlēd/

Verb -cause (someone) to have a wrong idea or impression about someone or something. "fans believed they were misled about the reasons for the cancellation"

Cow /kou/

Verb -cause (someone) to submit to one's wishes by intimidation. "the intellectuals had been cowed into silence" -to frighten someone into doing something, using threats or violence "the protesters refused to be cowed into submission by the army" Adjective (+ed) -as in intimidated, bullied

Inflict

Verb -cause (something unpleasant or painful) to be suffered by someone or something. "they inflicted serious injuries on three other men" -impose something unwelcome on "she is wrong to inflict her beliefs on everyone else"

Ravage /ˈravij/

Verb -cause severe and extensive damage to. "fears that a war could ravage their country" Noun -the severely damaging or destructive effects of something. "his face had withstood the ravages of time" -acts of destruction. "the ravages committed by man"

Dumbfound /ˈdəmˌfound/

Verb -greatly astonish or amaze. "I was dumbfounded by the low prices there" -to confound briefly and usually with astonishment "were dumbfounded at what they saw" KIDS DEFINITION -to make speechless with surprise Adjective /dəmˈfoundəd/ -greatly astonished or amazed. "he was utterly dumbfounded"

Confound /kənˈfound/

Verb -cause surprise or confusion in (someone), especially by acting against their expectations. "the inflation figure confounded economic analysts" -prove (a theory, expectation, or prediction) wrong. "the rise in prices confounded expectations" -defeat (a plan, aim, or hope). "we will confound these tactics by the pressure groups" ARCHAIC -overthrow (an enemy). "God chose to use natural disorders to confound Pharaoh and the gods of Egypt" -mix up (something) with something else so that the individual elements become difficult to distinguish. "'nuke' is now a cooking technique, as microwave radiation is confounded with nuclear radiation" DATED -used to express anger or annoyance. "oh confound it, where is the thing?"

Stultify /ˈstəltəˌfī/

Verb -cause to lose enthusiasm and initiative, especially as a result of a tedious or restrictive routine. DATED -cause (someone) to appear foolish or absurd. "Counsel is not expected to stultify himself in an attempt to advance his client's interests" -to have a dulling or inhibiting effect on -to impair, invalidate, or make ineffective; negate -to cause to appear or be stupid, foolish, or absurdly illogical ARCHAIC -to allege or prove to be of unsound mind and hence not responsible

Shackled

Verb -chained with shackles -restrain; limit "they seek to shackle the oil and gas companies by imposing new controls"

Transmute

Verb -change in form, nature, or substance

Beguile

Verb -charm or enchant (someone), sometimes in a deceptive way "every prominent American artist has been beguiled by Maine" -trick (someone) into doing something "they were beguiled into signing a peace treaty" -help (time) pass pleasantly "to beguile some of the time they went to the movie theatre"

Mount /mount/

Verb -climb up (stairs, a hill, or other rising surface). "he mounted the steps to the front door" -climb or move up on to (a raised surface). "the master of ceremonies mounted the platform" -get up on (an animal or bicycle) in order to ride it. "he mounted the horse" -set (someone) on horseback; provide with a horse. "she was mounted on a white horse" -(of a male mammal or bird) get on (a female) for the purpose of copulation. "a female was immediately mounted by the cat" -organize and initiate (a campaign or other significant course of action). "the company had successfully mounted takeover bids" -establish; set up. "security forces mounted checkpoints at every key road" -produce (a play, exhibition, or other artistic event); present for public view or display. "the museum is mounting an exhibition of sixteenth-century drawings" -grow larger or more numerous. "the costs mount up when you buy a home" -(of a feeling) become stronger or more intense. "his anxiety mounted as messages were left unanswered" -(of blood) rise visibly into the cheeks. "feeling the blush mount in her cheeks, she looked down quickly" -place or fix (an object) in its operating position. "fluorescent lights are mounted on the ceiling" -set in or attach to a backing or setting. "the photographs will be mounted and framed" -fix (an object for viewing) on a microscope slide. COMPUTING -make (a disk or disk drive) available for use. "there is a limit to the number of hard disks you can have mounted" Noun /ˈmoun(t)iNG/ -a backing, setting, or support for something. "he pulled the curtain rod from its mounting" -the action of mounting something. "the mounting of rapid-fire guns"

Smear

Verb -coat or mark (something) messily or carelessly with a greasy or sticky substance -spread (a grease, oily, or sticky substance) over something -messily blur the outline of (something such as writing or paint); smudge Noun -a mark or streak of a greasy or a sticky substance -a sample of materials spread thinly on a microscope slide for examination, typically for medical diagnosis -a false sample accusation intended to damage someone's reputation -an insecure foothold

Weather /ˈweT͟Hər/

Verb -come safely through (a storm). "the sturdy boat had weathered the storm well" -withstand (a difficulty or danger). "this year has tested industry's ability to weather recession"

Reconfigure /ˌrēkənˈfiɡyər/

Verb -configure (something) differently. "you don't have to reconfigure the modem each time you make a connection" -to change the way (something) is arranged or prepared for a particular purpose -to rearrange (something) into an altered form, figure, shape, or layout : to configure (something) again or in a new way "back in the business end of the airplane, built-in features allow the single loadmaster to reconfigure the cargo bay for different types of loads in under an hour in flight."

Regard /rəˈɡärd/

Verb -consider or think of (someone or something) in a specified way. "she regarded Omaha as her base" -gaze at steadily in a specified fashion. "Professor Ryker regarded him with a faint smile" -(of a thing) have relation to or connection with; concern. "if these things regarded only myself, I could stand it with composure" ARCHAIC -pay attention to; heed. "he talked very wisely, but I regarded him not"

Emblazon /əmˈblāzn/

Verb -conspicuously inscribe or display a design on. "T-shirts emblazoned with the names of baseball teams" -depict (a heraldic device) on something. "the cardinal's coat of arms is emblazoned on the door panel" -to write or draw (a name, picture, etc.) on a surface so that it can be seen very clearly -to decorate (a surface) with something (such as a name or a picture) ARCHAIC -celebrate or extol publicly. "their success was emblazoned"

Persist

Verb -continue firmly or obstinately in an opinion or a course of action in spite of difficulty, opposition, or failure. "the minority of drivers who persist in drinking" -continue to exist; be prolonged. "if the symptoms persist for more than a few days, contact your doctor"

Proselytize /ˈpräs(ə)ləˌtīz/

Verb -convert or attempt to convert (someone) from one religion, belief, or opinion to another. "the program did have a tremendous evangelical effect, proselytizing many" -advocate or promote (a belief or course of action). "Davis wanted to share his concept and proselytize his ideas" -to induce someone to convert to one's faith -to recruit someone to join one's party, institution, or cause -to recruit or convert especially to a new faith, institution, or cause

Mortgage /ˈmôrɡij/

Verb -convey (a property) to a creditor as security on a loan. "the estate was mortgaged up to the hilt" -expose to future risk or constraint for the sake of immediate advantage. "some people worry that selling off federal assets mortgages the country's future"

Cart /kärt/

Verb -convey or put in a cart or similar vehicle. "the produce was packed in crates and carted to Kansas City" INFORMAL -carry (a heavy or cumbersome object) somewhere with difficulty. "they carted the piano down three flights of stairs" -remove or convey (someone) somewhere roughly or abruptly. "they were carted off to the nearest police station"

Plaster /ˈplastər/

Verb -cover (a wall, ceiling, or other structure) with plaster. -coat or cover something with (a substance), especially to an extent considered excessive. "a face plastered in heavy makeup" -make (hair) lie flat by applying a liquid to it. "his hair was plastered down with water" -apply a plaster cast or medical plaster to (a part of the body). -cover a surface with (large numbers of pictures or posters). "the store windows are plastered with posters" -present a story or picture conspicuously and sensationally in (a newspaper or magazine). "her story was plastered all over the December issue" DATED•INFORMAL -bomb or shell (a target) heavily. Adjective -INFORMAL very drunk. "I went out and got totally plastered" -covered with or made of plaster. "coarsely plastered brickwork"

Contrive /kənˈtrīv/

Verb -create or bring about (an object or a situation) by deliberate use of skill and artifice. "his opponents contrived a crisis" -manage to do something foolish or create an undesirable situation. "the poor guy in some way contrived to hang himself" -devise; plan "contrive ways of handling the situation" "the prisoners contrived a way to escape." -to form or create in an artistic or ingenious manner "contrived household utensils from stone." "Native Americans contrived weapons out of stone, wood, and bone." -to bring about by stratagem or with difficulty; manage "he contrived to win their support" -to form or think of (a plan, method, etc.) -to form or make (something) in a skillful or clever way -to make (something) happen in a clever way or with difficulty

Revile /rəˈvīl/

Verb -criticize in an abusive or angrily insulting manner. "he was now reviled by the party that he had helped to lead"

Consign /kənˈsīn/

Verb -deliver (something) to a person's custody, typically in order for it to be sold. "he consigned three paintings to Sotheby's" -send (goods) by a public carrier. "the package was consigned by a famous sporting goods company" -assign; commit decisively or permanently. "she consigned the letter to the wastebasket" -to give over to another's care "consign her single daughters to the care of their sister" -to give, transfer, or deliver into the hands or control of another -to send or address to an agent to be cared for or sold "consigned the paintings for sale" -to put (someone) in a usually unpleasant place or situation -to put (something that is not wanted or used) in a place where old things are stored or thrown away -to send (something) to a person or place to be sold

Satirize /ˈsadəˌrīz/

Verb -deride and criticize by means of satire. "Aristophanes satirized the lack of respect for the laws"

Alight /əˈlīt/

Verb -descend from a train, bus, or other form of transport. "he was the only passenger to alight from the train" -(of a bird) descend from the air and settle. "a lovely blue swallow alighted on a branch" -to come to rest after descending from the air "a flock of eight swans circled above, then alighted on the pond" -to come down from something (as a vehicle) "as she alighted from the train, she momentarily lost her footing"

Streamline

Verb -design or provide with a form that represents very little resistance to a flow of air or water, increasing speed and ease of movement "engineers can reduce a vehicle's fuel consumption by reducing its size and weight and by streamlining its body" -make (an organization or system) more efficient and effective by employing faster or simpler working methods "the company streamlined its operation by removing whole layers of management" -to simplify Noun -a line along which the flow of a moving fluid is least turbulent Adjective -(of fluid flow) free of turbulence -having a streamlined shape "a streamline airplane"

Obliterate /əˈblidəˌrāt/

Verb -destroy utterly; wipe out. "the memory was so painful that he obliterated it from his mind" -cause to become invisible or indistinct; blot out. "clouds were darkening, obliterating the sun"

Depreciate /dəˈprēSHēˌāt/

Verb -diminish in value over a period of time. "the pound is expected to depreciate against the dollar" -reduce the recorded value in a company's books of (an asset) each year over a predetermined period. "the computers would be depreciated at 50 percent per annum" -disparage or belittle (something). "she was already depreciating her own aesthetic taste" -to lower in honor or esteem "often depreciates the importance of her work" -to lower the price or estimated value of "depreciate property" -to deduct from taxable income a portion of the original cost of (a business asset) over several years as the value of the asset decreases -to describe (something) as having little value

Exude /iɡˈzo͞od/

Verb -discharge (moisture or a smell) slowly and steadily. "the beetle exudes a caustic liquid" -(of moisture or a smell) be discharged by something slowly and steadily. "slime exudes from the fungus" -(of a person) display (an emotion or quality) strongly and openly. "Mr. Thomas exuded friendship and goodwill" -(of a place) have a strong atmosphere of. "the building exudes an air of tranquility"

Cloy /kloi/

Verb -disgust or sicken (someone) with an excess of sweetness, richness, or sentiment. "a curious bittersweetness that cloyed her senses" Adjective /ˈkloiiNG/ -excessively sweet, rich, or sentimental, especially to a disgusting or sickening degree. "a romantic, rather cloying story"

Ruffle /ˈrəfəl/

Verb -disorder or disarrange (someone's hair), typically by running one's hands through it. "the father laughs and jovially ruffles his son's hair" -(of a bird) erect (its feathers) in anger or display. "on his departure to the high wires, the starling ruffled his feathers and flirted his wings" -disturb the smoothness or tranquility of. "the evening breeze ruffled the surface of the pond in the yard" -disconcert or upset the composure of (someone). "Brian had been ruffled by her questions" -to move or lift (something) so that it is no longer smooth -to make (someone) irritated, annoyed, worried, etc. Noun -a strip of lace or other material, gathered along one edge to make an ornamental frill on a garment or other piece of fabric. -a vibrating drumbeat. -a state or cause of irritation

Treacherous /ˈtreCH(ə)rəs/

Verb -guilty of or involving betrayal or deception. "a treacherous Gestapo agent" -(of ground, water, conditions, etc.) hazardous because of presenting hidden or unpredictable dangers. "a vacationer was swept away by treacherous currents"

Flaunt /flônt,flänt/

Verb -display (something) ostentatiously, especially in order to provoke envy or admiration or to show defiance. "newly rich consumers eager to flaunt their prosperity" -dress or behave in a sexually provocative way. -to show (something) in a very open way so that other people will notice -to show a lack of respect for (something, such as a rule); flout

Dispense

Verb -distribute or provide (a service or information) to a number of people -(of a machine) supply (a product or crash) -(of a pharmacist) make up and give out (medicine) according to a doctor's prescription -manage without or get rid of "let's dispense with the formalities, shall we?" -give special exemptions from (a law or rule) "the secretary of state was empowered to dispense with the nationality requirement in individual cases" -grant (someone) an exemption from a religious obligation "the pope personally nominated him as bishop, dispensing him from his impediment"

Disconcert /ˌdiskənˈsərt/

Verb -disturb the composure of; unsettle. "the abrupt change of subject disconcerted her" -to throw into confusion "disconcerting their plans" -to disturb the composure of "were disconcerted by his tone of voice" KIDS DEFINITION -to make confused and a little upset "the change in plans disconcerted him" Adjective /ˌdiskənˈsərdiNG/ -causing one to feel unsettled. "he had a disconcerting habit of offering jobs to people he met at dinner parties" Adverb (+LY) -in a way that makes someone feel uncertain and uncomfortable or worried "the town was disconcertingly quiet."

Fascinating

Verb -draw irresistibly the attention and interest of (someone) -deprive (a person of animal) of the ability to resist or scape by the power of a look or gaze Adjective -extremely interesting

Repulse /rəˈpəls/

Verb -drive back (an attack or attacking enemy) by force. "rioters tried to storm ministry buildings but were repulsed by police" -fail to welcome (friendly advances or the person making them); rebuff. "she left, feeling hurt because she had been repulsed" -refuse to accept (an offer). "his bid for the company was repulsed" -cause (someone) to feel intense distaste and aversion. "audiences at early screenings of the film were repulsed by its brutality" -to cause disgust or distaste, or to drive back, repel

Repel /rəˈpel/

Verb -drive or force (an attack or attacker) back or away. -(of a magnetic pole or electric field) force (something similarly magnetized or charged) away from itself. "electrically charged objects attract or repel one another" -(of a substance) resist mixing with or be impervious to (another substance). "boots with good-quality leather uppers to repel moisture" -be repulsive or distasteful to. "she was repelled by the permanent smell of drink on his breath" FORMAL -refuse to accept (something, especially an argument or theory). "the alleged right of lien led by the bankrupt's attorney was repelled" -to drive back; repulse -to fight against; resist -turn away; reject "repelled the insinuation" -to drive away; discourage "foul words and frowns must not repel a lover"

Propel /prəˈpel/

Verb -drive, push, or cause to move in a particular direction, typically forward. "the boat is propelled by using a very long paddle" -spur or drive into a particular situation. "fear propelled her out of her stillness"

Blot /blät/

Verb -dry (a wet surface or substance) using an absorbent material. "Guy blotted his face with a dust rag" -mark or stain (something). "dark patches of dirt blotted the gray dress" -tarnish the good character or reputation of. "the turmoil blotted his memory of the school" -cover writing or pictures with ink or paint so that they cannot be seen. "Mary dug her brush into black paint and blotted out her picture" -obscure a view. "a dust shield blotting out the sun" -obliterate or disregard something painful in one's memory or existence. "the concentration necessary to her job blotted out all the feelings" BIOCHEMISTRY -transfer by means of a blot. -to spot, stain, or spatter with a discoloring substance OBSOLETE -mar; (especially) to stain with infamy -to dry (something, such as writing) with an absorbing agent "hastily blotted her letter" -to remove with absorbing material "blotting up spilled water" -to make a blot -to become marked with a blot Noun (1) -a soiling or disfiguring mark; spot -a mark of reproach; moral flaw -a usually nitrocellulose or nylon sheet that contains spots of immobilized macromolecules (as of DNA, RNA, or protein) or their fragments and is used to identify specific components of the spots by applying a molecular probe (such as a complementary nucleic acid or a radiolabeled antibody) Noun (2) -a lone backgammon man exposed to capture ARCHAIC -a weak or exposed point KIDS DEFINITION Noun -a spot or stain of dirt or ink -a mark of shame or dishonor "the lie was a blot on my record." Verb -to dry by pressing with paper or cloth

Devour /dəˈvou(ə)r/

Verb -eat (food or prey) hungrily or quickly. "he devoured half of his burger in one bite" -(of fire or a similar force) destroy completely. "the hungry flames devoured the old house" -read quickly and eagerly. "she spent her evenings devouring the classics" -be totally absorbed by a powerful feeling. "she was devoured by envy"

Radiate /ˈrādēət,ˈrādēˌāt/

Verb -emit (energy, especially light or heat) in the form of rays or waves. "the hot stars radiate energy" -(of light, heat, or other energy) be emitted in the form of rays or waves. "the continual stream of energy that radiates from the sun" -(of a person) clearly emanate (a strong feeling or quality) through their expression or bearing. "she lifted her chin, radiating defiance" -(of a feeling or quality) emanate clearly from. "leadership and confidence radiate from her" -diverge or spread from or as if from a central point. "he ran down one of the passages that radiated from the room" BIOLOGY -(of an animal or plant group) evolve into a variety of forms adapted to new situations or ways of life. Adjective RARE -arranged in or having a radial pattern. "the radiate crown"

Bewitch /bəˈwiCH/

Verb -enchant and delight (someone). "they both were bewitched by the country and its culture" -cast a spell over (someone). "his relatives were firmly convinced that he was bewitched"

Efface /əˈfās/

Verb -erase (a mark) from a surface. "with time, the words are effaced by the frost and the rain" -make oneself appear insignificant or inconspicuous. "to efface oneself is not the easiest of duties which the teacher can undertake" -to wipe out; to keep oneself from being noticed

Expunge /ikˈspənj/

Verb -erase or remove completely (something unwanted or unpleasant). "I've kind of expunged that period from my CV" -to strike out, obliterate, or mark for deletion -to efface completely; destroy -to eliminate from one's consciousness "expunge a memory"

Condemn /kənˈdem/

Verb -express complete disapproval of, typically in public; censure. "fair-minded people declined to condemn her on mere suspicion" -sentence (someone) to a particular punishment, especially death. "the rebels had been condemned to death" -(of circumstances) force (someone) to endure something unpleasant or undesirable. "the physical ailments that condemned him to a lonely childhood" -prove or show the guilt of. "she could see in his eyes that her stumble had condemned her" -officially declare (something, especially a building) to be unfit for use. "the pool has been condemned as a health hazard"

Encapsulate /inˈkapsəˌlāt,enˈkapsəˌlāt/

Verb -express the essential features of (something) succinctly. "the conclusion is encapsulated in one sentence" -enclose (something) in or as if in a capsule. "the company would encapsulate the asbestos waste in concrete pellets" ANATOMY•MEDICINE -enclose (an organ or structure of the body) in a tough sheath or membrane. "pancreatic tumors are encapsulated in a densely packed thicket of proteins and cells" COMPUTING -enclose (a message or signal) in a set of codes that allow transfer across networks. "data requested is encapsulated and can be manipulated" -provide an interface for (a piece of software or hardware) to allow or simplify access for the user. "third-party vendors can encapsulate their tools to run with this software backplane"

Overlook /ˌōvərˈlo͝ok/

Verb -fail to notice (something). "he seems to have overlooked one important fact" -ignore or disregard (something, especially a fault or offense). "she was more than ready to overlook his faults" -pass over (someone) in favor of another. "he was overlooked by the Nobel committee" -have a view of from above. "the chateau overlooks fields of corn and olive trees" ARCHAIC -supervise; oversee. "he was overlooking his harvest men" ARCHAIC -bewitch with the evil eye. "they told them they were overlooked by some unlucky Person" +ING Adjective -as in raised, overhead Noun -as in disregard, forgetting Verb -to look down on "the fortress overlooks the city" -to fail to give proper attention to "you've overlooked your chores again this week" -to be in charge of "you'll be asked to overlook larger projects in the future" -to cast a spell on "the superstitious grandmother actually believed that the baby had been overlooked by a gypsy woman" -to look over closely (as for judging quality or condition) "quickly overlooked the table of used books to see if there was anything of value" -to dismiss as of little importance "definitely not the kind of spouse to overlook even a single instance of marital infidelity" -to look after and make decisions about "the engineer hired to overlook the construction of the canal"

Succumb /səˈkəm/

Verb -fail to resist pressure, temptation, or some other negative force. "he has become the latest to succumb to the strain" -die from the effect of a disease or injury. "after a few blows there, the porcupine succumbs"

Swoon /swo͞on/

Verb -faint from extreme emotion. "he swooned at the sight of blood on his hero's sleeve" -be emotionally affected by someone or something that one admires; become ecstatic. "teenagers swoon over Japanese pop singers" -to become very excited about someone or something -to suddenly become unconscious; faint

Plummet /ˈpləmət/

Verb -fall or drop straight down at high speed. "a climber was killed when he plummeted 300 feet down an icy gully" -decrease rapidly in value or amount. "hardware sales plummeted" Noun -a steep and rapid fall or drop. "the bird has a circular display flight followed by an earthward plummet" -a plumb or plumb line.

Hanker /ˈhaNGkər/

Verb -feel a strong desire for or to do something. "she hankered to go back" -to have a strong or persistent desire; yearn —often used with for or after

Resent

Verb -feel bitterness or indignation at (a circumstance, action, or person) "she resented the fact that I had children"

Revere /rəˈvir/

Verb -feel deep respect or admiration for (something). "Cézanne's still lifes were revered by his contemporaries"

Loathe /lōT͟H/

Verb -feel intense dislike or disgust for. "she loathed him on sight"

Fume /fyo͞om/

Verb -feel, show, or express great anger. ""We simply cannot have this," she fumed" -emit gas, smoke, or vapor. "fragments of lava hit the ground, fuming and sizzling" -expose (something, especially wood) to ammonia fumes in order to produce dark tints. "you can fume the wood with industrial-strength ammonia." -to show or feel anger -to say (something) in an angry way -to produce or give off (smoke, fumes, etc.) Adjective -feeling, showing, or expressing great anger. "Smith was left fuming following the security breach" Noun -the process of exposing wood to ammonia fumes in order to produce dark tints. "fuming is a highly toxic process" -a smoke, vapor, or gas especially when irritating or offensive "engine exhaust fumes" -something (such as an emotion) that impairs one's reasoning "sometimes his head gets a little hot with the fumes of patriotism" -a state of excited irritation or anger —usually used in the phrase in a fume

Circumvent /ˌsərkəmˈvent/

Verb -find a way around (an obstacle). "if you come to an obstruction in a road you can seek to circumvent it" -overcome (a problem or difficulty), typically in a clever and surreptitious way. "I found it quite easy to circumvent security" ARCHAIC -deceive; outwit. "he's circumvented her with some of his stories"

Hustle /ˈhəsəl/

Verb -force (someone) to move hurriedly or unceremoniously in a specified direction. "they hustled him into the back of a horse-drawn wagon" -push roughly; jostle. "they were hissed and hustled as they went in" -hurry; bustle. "he had to retag second base and hustle back to first" INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -obtain by forceful action or persuasion. "the brothers headed to New York to try and hustle a record deal" -coerce or pressure someone into doing or choosing something. "don't be hustled into anything" -sell aggressively. "he hustled his company's oil around the country" -obtain by illicit action; swindle; cheat. "Linda hustled money from men she met" INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -engage in prostitution. Noun -busy movement and activity. "the hustle and bustle of the big cities" INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -a fraud or swindle. "the hustles being used to avoid the draft"

Froth /frôTH/

Verb -form or contain a rising or overflowing mass of small bubbles. "he took a quick sip of beer as it frothed out of the can" -rise or overflow in a soft, light mass. "she wore an ivory silk blouse, frothing at neck and cuffs" -agitate (a liquid) so as to produce a mass of small bubbles. "users found it easy to froth milk for cappuccino"

Renounce /rəˈnouns/

Verb -formally declare one's abandonment of (a claim, right, or possession). "Isabella offered to renounce her son's claim to the French Crown" -reject and stop using or consuming. "he renounced drugs and alcohol completely" LAW -refuse or resign a right or position, especially one as an heir or trustee. "there will be forms enabling the allottee to renounce" -refuse to recognize or abide by any longer. "these agreements were renounced after the fall of the czarist regime" -declare that one will no longer engage in or support. "they renounced the armed struggle"

Disentangle

Verb -free (someone or something) from an entanglement; extricate "I must go," she said, disentangling her fingers from Gabriel's -remove knots or tangles from (wool, rope, or hair) -to free from tangles or complications

Coral /kəˈral/

Verb -gather together and confine (a group of people or things). "the organizers were corralling the crowd into marching formation" -collect; gather "corralling votes for the upcoming election" NORTH AMERICAN -put or keep (livestock) in a corral. "sheep and goats grazed the plains during the day but they were corralled at night" HISTORICAL -form (wagons) into a corral. "the wagons, in forming the encampment, were corralled" Noun -an area that is surrounded by a fence and that is used for holding animals (such as cows and horses) on a farm or ranch

Coax /kōks/

Verb -gently and persistently persuade (someone) to do something. "the trainees were coaxed into doing boring work" -obtain something from (someone) by gentle and persistent persuasion. "we coaxed money out of my father" -arrange (something) carefully into a particular shape or position. "her lovely hair had been coaxed into ringlets" -to influence or gently urge by caressing or flattering; wheedle "coaxed him into going" -to draw, gain, or persuade by means of gentle urging or flattery "unable to coax an answer out of him" -to manipulate with great perseverance and usually with considerable effort toward a desired state or activity "coax a fire to burn" OBSOLETE -fondle, pet KIDS DEFINITION Verb -to influence by gentle urging, special attention, or flattering "She coaxed her kitty out of the tree." -to get or win by means of gentle urging or flattery "He coaxed a raise from the boss."

Discard

Verb -get rid of (someone or something) as no longer useful or desirable "Hilary bundled up the clothes she had discarded" -(in bridge, whist, and similar card games) play (a card that is neither of the suit led nor a trump), when one is unable to follow suit. "West led a heart and East was able to discard his club loser" Noun -a person or thing rejected as no longer useful or desirable.

Recast

Verb -give (a metal object) a different form by melting it down and reshaping it -present or organize in a different form or style "his doctoral thesis has been recast for the general reader" -reconstruct (a sentence, story, etc.); fashion again

Ennoble /əˈnōbəl/

Verb -give (someone) a noble rank or title. -lend greater dignity or nobility of character to. "the theater is a moral instrument to ennoble the mind" -to make (someone or something) better or more worthy of admiration -to make (someone) a member of the nobility

Glint /ɡlint/

Verb -give out or reflect small flashes of light. "her glasses were glinting in the firelight" -(of a person's eyes) shine with a particular emotion. "his eyes glinted angrily" Noun -a small flash of light, especially as reflected from a shiny surface. "the glint of gold in his teeth" -a brightness in someone's eyes seen as a sign of enthusiasm or a particular emotion. "she saw the glint of excitement in his eyes"

Invigorate /inˈviɡəˌrāt/

Verb -give strength or energy to. "the shower had invigorated her" Adjective (add -ing) /inˈviɡəˌrādiNG/ -making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy. "a brisk, invigorating walk"

Cede /sēd/

Verb -give up (power or territory). "he ceded control of the company to his brother" -to yield or grant typically by treaty Russia ceded Alaska to the U.S. in 1867. -assign, transfer "ceded his stock holdings to his children" LEGAL DEFINITION -to transfer (all or part of one's liability as an insurer under an insurance policy) by reinsurance to another insurer

Embark /əmˈbärk/

Verb -go on board a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle. "he embarked for India in 1817" -put or take on board a ship or aircraft. "its passengers were ready to be embarked" -begin (a course of action, especially one that is important or demanding). "he embarked on a new career" -to go on board a vehicle for transportation "the troops embarked at noon" -to make a start "embarked on a new career" -to cause to go on board (a boat, an airplane, etc.) -to engage, enlist, or invest in an enterprise

Ascend /əˈsend/

Verb -go up or climb. "she ascended the stairs" -climb to the summit of (a mountain or hill). "the first traveler to ascend the mountain" -(of a fish or boat) move upstream along (a river). "salmon ascend rivers from the sea to spawn" -rise through the air. "we had ascended 3,000 ft" -(of a road or flight of steps) slope or lead up. "the road ascends to the lake" -move up the social or professional scale. "some executives ascend to top-level positions" -(of a spiritual being or soul) rise into heaven. "the Prophet ascended to heaven" -(of a voice or sound) rise in pitch. "Carolyn's voice had ascended into high-pitched giggles" -to go up : to rise or move toward the sky -to slope or lead upward -to rise to a higher or more powerful position in a government, company, etc.

Clutch /kləCH/

Verb -grasp or seize (something) tightly or eagerly. "he stood clutching a microphone" -become nervous and panicked. "doctors could clutch up and lose control as easily as anyone" Noun -a tight grasp or an act of grasping something. "she made a clutch at his body" -a person's power or control, especially when perceived as cruel or inescapable. "she escaped the clutches of her temperamental family" -a mechanism for connecting and disconnecting a vehicle engine from its transmission system. "she let the clutch in and the car surged forward" -the pedal operating a vehicle's clutch. NORTH AMERICAN -a slim, flat handbag without handles or a strap. -a group of eggs fertilized at the same time, laid in a single session and (in birds) incubated together. "they lay fewer than ten eggs in a clutch" -a brood of chicks. "the number of chicks in a clutch varies according to the availability of food and the danger of predators" -a small group of people or things. "a clutch of young girls on roller skates"

String /striNG/

Verb -hang (something) so that it stretches in a long line. "lights were strung across the promenade" -thread (a series of small objects) on a string. "he collected stones with holes in them and strung them on a strong cord" -be arranged in a long line. "the houses were strung along the road" -fit a string or strings to (a musical instrument, a racket, or a bow). "the harp had been newly strung"

Intend /inˈtend/

Verb -have (a course of action) as one's purpose or objective; plan. "the company intends to cut about 4,500 jobs" -plan that (something) function in a particular way. "a series of questions intended as a checklist" -plan that speech should have (a particular meaning). "no offense was intended, I assure you" -design or destine (someone or something) for a particular purpose or end. "this one-roomed cottage was intended to accommodate a family" -be meant or designed for (a particular person or group) to have or use. "this benefit is intended for people incapable of work" Adjective (+Ed) -planned or meant. "the intended victim escaped" Noun INFORMAL -the person one intends to marry; one's fiancé or fiancée. "she used to be my intended"

Wrangle

Verb -have a long and complicated dispute "the bureaucrats continue wrangling over the fine print" -round up, herd, or take charge of (livestock) Wrangling Noun -engagement in a long, complicated dispute or argument "weeks of political wrangling"

Yearn /yərn/

Verb -have an intense feeling of longing for something, typically something that one has lost or been separated from. "she yearned for a glimpse of him" ARCHAIC -be filled with compassion or warm feeling. "no fellow spirit yearned toward her"

Dare /der/

Verb -have the courage to do something. "a story he dare not write down" -defy or challenge (someone) to do something. "she was daring him to disagree" LITERARY -take the risk of; brave. "few dared his wrath" Adjective /ˈderiNG/ -(of a person or action) adventurous or audaciously bold. "a daring crime" -boldly unconventional. "he rapidly discovered an audience hungry for his daring new works" -willing to do dangerous or difficult things -showing a lack of fear Noun /ˈderiNG/ -adventurous courage. "the zeal and daring of climbers" -the quality of being willing to do dangerous or difficult things; courage or fearlessness

Inhibit /inˈhibit/

Verb -hinder, restrain, or prevent (an action or process). "cold inhibits plant growth" -prevent or prohibit (someone) from doing something. "the earnings rule inhibited some retired people from working" PHYSIOLOGY•BIOCHEMISTRY -(chiefly of a drug or other substance) slow down or prevent (a process, reaction, or function) or reduce the activity of (an enzyme or other agent). -make (someone) self-conscious and unable to act in a relaxed and natural way. "his mother's strictures would always inhibit him" -(in ecclesiastical law) forbid (a member of the clergy) to exercise clerical functions. Adjective /inˈhibidəd/ -unable to act in a relaxed and natural way because of self-consciousness or mental restraint. "I could never appear nude, I'm far too inhibited"

Exalt /iɡˈzôlt/

Verb -hold (someone or something) in very high regard; think or speak very highly of. "the party will continue to exalt its hero" -raise to a higher rank or a position of greater power. "this naturally exalts the peasant above his brethren in the same rank of society" -make noble in character; dignify. "romanticism liberated the imagination and exalted the emotions" Adjective -(of a person or their rank or status) placed at a high or powerful level; held in high regard. "it had taken her years of hard infighting to reach her present exalted rank" -(of an idea) noble; lofty. "his exalted hopes of human progress" -in a state of extreme happiness. "I felt exalted and newly alive" -held in high estimation; glorified or praised "our most exalted heroes"

Opine /ōˈpīn/

Verb -hold and state as one's opinion. ""The man is a genius," he opined"

Cradle /ˈkrādl/

Verb -hold gently and protectively. "she cradled his head in her arms" -be the place of origin of. "the northeastern states cradled an American industrial revolution" -place (a phone receiver) in its cradle. "she cradled the receiver gently"

Mesmerize /ˈmezməˌrīz/

Verb -hold the attention of (someone) to the exclusion of all else or so as to transfix them. "she was mesmerized by the blue eyes that stared so intently into her own" ARCHAIC hypnotize (someone). "he was mesmerized when at the point of death" Adjective /ˈmezməˌrīziNG/ -capturing one's complete attention as if by magic. "a mesmerizing stare"

Spellbind /ˈspelbīnd/

Verb -hold the complete attention of (someone) as though by magic; fascinate. "the killer whale gave the spellbound audience a good soaking"

Delude

Verb -impose a misleading belief upon (someone); deceive; fool. "too many theorists have deluded the public"

Delude /dəˈlo͞od/

Verb -impose a misleading belief upon (someone); deceive; fool. "too many theorists have deluded the public" -to mislead the mind or judgment of; deceive, trick "people he regards as deluded by the romantic idea that children somehow possess innate knowledge"

Overawe /ˌōvərˈô/

Verb -impress (someone) so much that they become silent or inhibited. "he used firepower to overawe the hostile tribes" -to restrain or subdue by awe -to cause someone to feel a mixture of respect and fear "some of the players were totally overawed by playing their first game at the national stadium." -to make (someone) unable to think, speak, or behave normally because of a strong feeling of respect and fear Adjective (+ed) -slightly afraid of something impressive or powerful.

Punctuate /ˈpəNG(k)(t)SHəˌwāt/

Verb -insert punctuation marks in (text). "they should be shown how to set out and punctuate direct speech" -occur at intervals throughout (a continuing event or a place). "the country's history has been punctuated by coups" -interrupt or intersperse (an activity) with. "she punctuates her conversation with snatches of song"

Slight /slīt/

Verb -insult (someone) by treating or speaking of them without proper respect or attention. "he was careful not to slight a guest" ARCHAIC -raze or destroy (a fortification). "a Council determined whether the Fort should be kept or slighted"

Construe /kənˈstro͞o/

Verb -interpret (a word or action) in a particular way. "his words could hardly be construed as an apology" -analyze the syntax of (a text, sentence, or word). "both verbs can be construed with either infinitive" -translate (a passage or author) word for word, typically aloud.

Heckle /ˈhek(ə)l/

Verb -interrupt (a public speaker) with derisive or aggressive comments or abuse. "he was booed and heckled when he tried to address the demonstrators" -dress (flax or hemp) to split and straighten the fibers for spinning. "hemp was heckled and spun into rope yarn" -to harass and try to disconcert with questions, challenges, or gibes; badger -to interrupt a public speech or performance with loud, unfriendly statements or questions "a few angry locals started heckling (the speaker)."

Rivet /ˈrivit/

Verb -join or fasten (plates of metal) with a rivet or rivets. "the linings are bonded, not riveted, to the brake shoes for longer wear" -hold (someone or something) fast so as to make them incapable of movement. "the grip on her arm was firm enough to rivet her to the spot" -attract and completely engross (someone). "he was riveted by the newsreels shown on television" -direct (one's eyes or attention) intently. "all eyes were riveted on him" -to attract and hold all of someone's attention -to make (someone) unable to move because of fear, shock, etc. -to fasten (something) with rivets Noun -a special kind of metal bolt or pin that is used to hold pieces of metal together

Smother /ˈsməT͟Hər/

Verb -kill (someone) by covering their nose and mouth so that they suffocate. -extinguish (a fire) by covering it. -cover someone or something entirely with. "rich orange sorbets smothered in fluffy whipped cream" -make (someone) feel trapped and oppressed by acting in an overly protective manner toward them. "it's time for you to leave the house—she'll smother you if you remain" -suppress (a feeling or an action). "she smothered a sigh" -(in sports) stop the motion of (the ball or a shot) by falling on it and covering it. "the goalkeeper was able to smother the ball" Noun -a mass of something that stifles or obscures. "all this vanished in a smother of foam"

Digress /dī'gres/

Verb -leave the main subject temporarily in speech or writing. "I have digressed a little from my original plan"

Bask /bask/

Verb -lie exposed to warmth and light, typically from the sun, for relaxation and pleasure. "sprawled figures basking in the afternoon sun" -revel in and make the most of (something pleasing). "he went on basking in the glory of his first book" -to take pleasure or derive enjoyment "basked in the spotlight" -to lie or relax happily in a bright and warm place -to enjoy the attention and good feelings expressed by others

Gaze /ɡāz/

Verb -look steadily and intently, especially in admiration, surprise, or thought. "he could only gaze at her in astonishment" -to fix the eyes in a steady intent look often with eagerness or studious attention "gazed out the window at the snow" Noun -a steady intent look. "he turned, following her gaze" -(in literary theory) a particular perspective taken to embody certain aspects of the relationship between observer and observed, especially as reflected in the way in which an author or film director (unconsciously or otherwise) directs attention. "the male gaze"

Forfeit /ˈfôrfət/

Verb -lose or be deprived of (property or a right or privilege) as a penalty for wrongdoing. "those unable to meet their taxes were liable to forfeit their property" -lose or give up (something) as a necessary consequence of something else. "she didn't mind forfeiting an extra hour in bed to get up and clean the stables" Noun -a fine or penalty for wrongdoing or for a breach of the rules in a club or game. "the loser must pay a forfeit" LAW -an item of property or a right or privilege lost as a legal penalty. -a game in which trivial penalties are exacted. -the action of forfeiting something. Adjective -lost or surrendered as a penalty for wrongdoing or neglect. "the lands which he had acquired were automatically forfeit"

Tarnish /ˈtärniSH/

Verb -lose or cause to lose luster, especially as a result of exposure to air or moisture. "silver tarnishes too easily" -to dull or destroy the luster of by or as if by air, dust, or dirt; soil, stain -make or become less valuable or respected. "his regime had not been tarnished by human rights abuses" -to detract from the good quality of; vitiate "his fine dreams now slightly tarnished." -to bring disgrace on; sully "the scandal has tarnished his reputation." -to become or cause (metal) to become dull and not shiny -to damage or ruin the good quality of (something, such as a person's reputation, image, etc.)

Concuct /kənˈkäkt/

Verb -make (a dish or meal) by combining various ingredients. "they concoct relish from corn that is so naturally sweet no extra sugar is needed" -create or devise (a story or plan). "they concocted a preposterous but entertaining story" -to prepare by combining ingredients, make up (as a dish); -to devise, invent, fabricate

Dispel

Verb -make (a doubt, feeling, or belief) disappear "the brightness of the day did nothing to dispel Elaine's dejection" -to get rid of

Consummate /ˈkänsəˌmāt/

Verb -make (a marriage or relationship) complete by having sexual intercourse. "they did not consummate their marriage until months after it took place" -complete (a transaction or attempt); make perfect. "his scheme of colonization was consummated through bloodshed" -finish; complete "consummate a business deal" -to make perfect -achieve "his desire of consummating victory and revenge made him cautious"

Exacerbate /iɡˈzasərˌbāt/

Verb -make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse. "the exorbitant cost of land in urban areas only exacerbated the problem"

Expedite

Verb -make (an action or process) happen sooner or be accomplished more quickly

Fluster /ˈfləstər/

Verb -make (someone) agitated or confused. "there's nothing you can do or say to fluster Bernie"

Vex /veks/

Verb -make (someone) feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters. "the memory of the conversation still vexed him" ARCHAIC -cause distress to. "thou shalt not vex a stranger" -to bring trouble, distress, or agitation to "the restaurant is vexed by slow service" -to bring physical distress to "a headache vexed him all morning" -to irritate or annoy by petty provocations; harass "vexed by the children" -to annoy or worry (someone)

Abash /əˈbaSH/

Verb -make (someone) feel embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed. "if anything was officially done or said to him, it did not abash him" Adjective (+ed) -embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed. "Harriet looked slightly abashed" -made to feel uncomfortable, disconcerted, or embarrassed by something that has happened or been done or said "i stood back, abashed, wondering what I'd done wrong"

Discomfit /disˈkəmfət/

Verb -make (someone) feel uneasy or embarrassed. "he was not noticeably discomfited by her tone" -to frustrate the plans of; thwart "discomfit our foes" ARCHAIC -to defeat in battle "the ground ... strewn with the discomfited" Noun -the state of being confused, embarrassed, or upset; discomfiture

Exhilirate /iɡˈziləˌrāt/

Verb -make (someone) feel very happy, animated, or elated. "the children were exhilarated by a sense of purpose" Adjective (+ing) /iɡˈziləˌrādiNG/ -making one feel very happy, animated, or elated; thrilling. "an exhilarating two-hour rafting experience"

Stifle /ˈstīfəl/

Verb -make (someone) unable to breathe properly; suffocate. "those in the streets were stifled by the fumes" -restrain (a reaction) or stop oneself acting on (an emotion). "she stifled a giggle" -prevent or constrain (an activity or idea). "high taxes were stifling private enterprise" Noun -a joint in the legs of horses, dogs, and other animals, equivalent to the knee in humans.

Embellish /əmˈbeliSH/

Verb -make (something) more attractive by the addition of decorative details or features. "blue silk embellished with golden embroidery" -make (a statement or story) more interesting or entertaining by adding extra details, especially ones that are not true. "she had real difficulty telling the truth because she liked to embellish things" -to make beautiful with ornamentation; decorate "a book embellished with illustrations" -to heighten the attractiveness of by adding decorative or fanciful details; enhance "embellished our account of the trip"

Beckon /ˈbekən/

Verb -make a gesture with the hand, arm, or head to encourage someone to come nearer or follow. "Miranda beckoned to Adam" -attract the attention of or summon someone by making a gesture with the hand, arm, or head. "he beckoned Christopher over" -seem to be appealing or inviting. "the going is tough and soft options beckon"

Hum /həm/

Verb -make a low, steady continuous sound like that of a bee. "the computers hummed" -sing with closed lips. "he hummed softly to himself" -(of a place) be filled with a low, steady continuous sound. "the room hummed with an expectant murmur" INFORMAL -be in a state of great activity. "the repair shops are humming as the tradesmen set about their various tasks" INFORMAL•BRITISH -smell unpleasant. "when the wind drops this stuff really hums" -to utter a sound like that of the speech sound \m\ prolonged "humming along with the music" -to make the natural noise of an insect in motion or a similar sound; drone "listening to the bees hum in the garden" -to give forth a low continuous blend of sound "the sound of children's voices with which the house was always humming"m -to be busily active "the museum hummed with visitors" -to run smoothly "the business started to hum" -to sing with the lips closed and without uttering speech sounds distinctly "hum a tune" -to express by making a vocal sound with the lips pressed together; to affect by humming "hummed his displeasure"

Reconnoiter /ˌrēkəˈnoidər,ˌrekəˈnoidər/

Verb -make a military observation of (a region). "they reconnoitered the beach some weeks before the landing" -to inspect, observe, or survey (the enemy, the enemy's strength or position, a region, etc.) in order to gain information for military purposes.

Prick /prik/

Verb -make a small hole in (something) with a sharp point; pierce slightly. "prick the potatoes with a fork" -feel a sensation as though a sharp point were sticking into one. "she felt her scalp prick and her palms were damp" -(of tears) cause the sensation of imminent weeping in (a person's eyes). "tears of disappointment were pricking her eyelids" -cause mental or emotional discomfort to. "her conscience pricked her as she told the lie" -arouse or provoke to action. "the police were pricked into action" -(especially of a horse or dog) make (the ears) stand erect when on the alert. "the dog's tail was wagging and her ears were pricked" -to make a very small hole in (something) with a sharp pointed object -to cause a sharp, painful feeling on or in (part of your body) -to make (someone) feel guilt, shame, regret, etc. Noun -an act of piercing something with a fine, sharp point. "the pin prick had produced a drop of blood" -a small hole or mark made by piercing something with a fine, sharp point. -a sharp pain caused by being pierced with a fine point. "he felt a tiny prick in his arm" -a sudden feeling of distress, anxiety, or some other unpleasant emotion. "she felt a prick of resentment" VULGAR SLANG -a penis. -a man regarded as stupid, unpleasant, or contemptible. ARCHAIC -a spiked stick used for driving oxen. -an act of making a small hole in something with a sharp pointed object -a feeling of pain caused by being touched by something sharp or pointed -a slight, sharp feeling of sadness, regret, etc.

Divulge

Verb -make known (private or sensitive information) "i don't want to divulge my plan at the moment"

Adorn /əˈdôrn/

Verb -make more beautiful or attractive. "pictures and prints adorned his walls" -to add beauty; to decorate

Forge /fôrj/

Verb -make or shape (a metal object) by heating it in a fire or furnace and beating or hammering it. "he forged a great suit of black armor" -create (a relationship or new conditions). "the two women forged a close bond" -produce a copy or imitation of (a document, signature, banknote, or work or art) for the purpose of deception. "the signature on the check was forged" Verb (2) -move forward gradually or steadily. "he forged through the crowded side streets" Noun -a blacksmith's workshop; a smithy. -a furnace or hearth for melting or refining metal. -a workshop or factory containing a furnace for refining metal. Adjective -copied fraudulently; fake. "they have illegally entered the UK using forged travel documents"

Attune /əˈt(y)o͞on/

Verb -make receptive or aware. "a society more attuned to consumerism than ideology" -accustom or acclimatize. "students are not attuned to making decisions" -make harmonious. "the interests of East and West are now closely attuned" -become receptive to or aware of. "a conscious attempt to attune to the wider audience" -to cause (a person, company, etc.) to have a better understanding of what is needed or wanted by a particular person or group -to make aware or responsive attune businesses to changing trends

Waft /wäft,waft/

Verb -pass or cause to pass easily or gently through or as if through the air. "the smell of stale fat wafted out from the cafe" -to move or go lightly on or as if on a buoyant medium "heavenly aromas wafted from the kitchen." -to cause to move or go lightly by or as if by the impulse of wind or waves Noun -something (such as an odor) that is wafted : WHIFF -a slight breeze; puff -the act of waving -a pennant or flag used to signal or to show wind direction KIDS DEFINITION (Noun) -a slight breeze or puff of air

Stray /strā/

Verb -move away aimlessly from a group or from the right course or place. "dog owners are urged not to allow their dogs to stray" -(of the eyes or a hand) move idly or casually in a specified direction. "her eyes strayed to the telephone" -(of a person who is married or in a long-term relationship) be unfaithful. "men who stray are seen as more exciting and desirable" LITERARY -wander or roam in a specified direction. "over these mounds the Kurdish shepherd strays" -to wander from company, restraint, or proper limits -to roam about without fixed direction or purpose -to move in a winding course; meander -to move without conscious or intentional effort "eyes straying absently around the room" -to become distracted from an argument or train of thought "strayed from the point" -to wander accidentally from a fixed or chosen route -err, sin Noun -a domestic animal that is wandering at large or is lost Adjective -lost or having no home "a stray dog" -occurring at random or sporadically "stray thoughts" -occurring here and there : RANDOM "a few stray hairs" -not serving any useful purpose; unwanted "stray light"

Gyrate /ˈjīrāt/

Verb -move or cause to move in a circle or spiral, especially quickly. "their wings gyrate through the water like paddle wheels" -dance in a wild or suggestive manner. "strippers gyrated to rock music on a low stage"

Descend /dəˈsend/

Verb -move or fall downward. "the aircraft began to descend" -(of a mammal's testes) pass from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum. (of stairs, a road or path, or a piece of land) be on a slope or incline and extend downward. "a side road descended into the forest" -move down (a slope or stairs). "the vehicle descended a ramp" -come or go down a scale, especially from the superior to the inferior. "three hotels were granted the prestigious five-star status, whilst others descended in quality or maintained their ranking" MUSIC -(of sound) become lower in pitch. "the chords descended in spectacular style from the upper register to the lower" -act in a specified shameful way that is far below one's usual standards. "she descended to self-pity" -(of a situation or group of people) reach (a state considered undesirable or shameful). "the army had descended into chaos" -make a sudden attack on. "the militia descended on Rye" -make an unexpected and typically unwelcome visit to "treasure-seekers descended upon the site" -(of a feeling or atmosphere) develop suddenly and be felt throughout a place or by a person or group of people. "with her death, a cloud of gloom descended upon Bollywood" -(of night or darkness) begin to occur. "as the winter darkness descended, the fighting ceased" -be a direct blood relative of (a specified, typically illustrious ancestor). "she is descended from Charles II" -(of an asset) pass by inheritance, typically from parent to child. "his lands descended to his eldest son" KIDS DEFINITION Verb -to come or go down from a higher place or level to a lower one "the elevator descended." -to move down or down along "descending the cliff was dangerous." -to slope or lead downward "the road descends to the valley." -to come down from an earlier time "the custom descends from ancient times." -to come down from a source or ancestor; derive "many words descend from Latin." -to be handed down to an heir -to arrive from or as if from the sky "holiday shoppers descended on the mall." -to sink in dignity or respectability; stoop "I never thought they would descend to cheating." -to sink to a worse condition "the classroom descended into chaos."

Undulate /ˈənjəˌlāt/

Verb -move or go with a smooth up-and-down motion. "the surface of the liquid undulated gently" -have a smoothly rising and falling form or outline. "the landscape rolled and undulated for miles in every direction" -to form or move in waves; fluctuate -to rise and fall in volume, pitch, or cadence -to present a wavy appearance -to cause to move in a wavy, sinuous, or flowing manner Adjective -having a smoothly rising and falling form or outline. "the undulating country lanes of Northern Ireland" -having a wavy surface, edge, or markings "the undulate margin of a leaf"

Fleet /flēt/

Verb -move or pass quickly. "a variety of expressions fleeted across his face" -pass (time) rapidly. "we fleeted the time carelessly" -fade away; be transitory. "the cares of boyhood fleet away" Adjective (+ing) -lasting for a very short time. "hoping to get a fleeting glimpse of a whale underwater" -is an adjective that describes something that happens really fast, or something that doesn't last as long as you'd like.

Oscillate /ˈäsəˌlāt/

Verb -move or swing back and forth at a regular speed. "a pendulum oscillates about its lowest point" -waver between extremes of opinion, action, or quality. "he was oscillating between fear and bravery" PHYSICS -vary in magnitude or position in a regular manner around a central point. -(of a circuit or device) cause the electric current or voltage running through it to vary in magnitude or position in a regular manner around a central point. -to swing backward and forward like a pendulum "the fan was oscillating." -to move or travel back and forth between two points "he oscillates regularly between his comfortable home ... and his downtown office-laboratory" -to vary between opposing beliefs, feelings, or theories "the mood of the voters has oscillated between optimism and pessimism."

Defy

Verb -openly resist or refuse to obey -(of a thing) make (an action or quality) almost impossible "his actions defy belief" -appear to be challenging (someone) to do or prove something "he glowered at her, defying her to mock him"

Inlay /ˌinˈlā/

Verb -ornament (an object) by embedding pieces of a different material in it, flush with its surface. "mahogany paneling inlaid with rosewood" -embed (something) into the surface of an object. "a small silver crown was inlaid in the wood" -insert (a page, an illustration, etc.) in a space cut in a larger thicker page.

Surmount /sərˈmount/

Verb -overcome (a difficulty or obstacle). "all manner of cultural differences were surmounted" -stand or be placed on top of. "the tomb was surmounted by a sculptured angel"

Subdue /səbˈd(y)o͞o/

Verb -overcome, quieten, or bring under control (a feeling or person). "she managed to subdue an instinct to applaud" -bring (a country or people) under control by force. "Charles went on a campaign to subdue the Saxons" -to get control of (a violent or dangerous person or group) by using force, punishment, etc. "the troops were finally able to subdue the rebel forces after many days of fighting." -to get control of (something, such as a strong emotion) "she struggled to subdue her fears." -to conquer and bring into subjection : VANQUISH -to bring under control especially by an exertion of the will; curb "subdued my foolish fears" -to bring (land) under cultivation -to reduce the intensity or degree of : tone down Adjective /ˌsəbˈd(y)o͞od/ -(of a person or their manner) quiet and rather reflective or depressed. "I felt strangely subdued as I drove home" -(of color or lighting) soft and restrained. "a subdued plaid shirt"

Tamp /tamp/

Verb -pack (a blast hole) full of clay or sand to concentrate the force of the explosion. "when the hole was tamped to the top, gunpowder was inserted" -ram or pack (a substance) down or into something firmly. "he tamped down the tobacco with his thumb" -to drive in or down by a succession of light or medium blows "tamp wet concrete" -to put a check on; reduce, lessen "tamp down rumors" -to press (something) down by hitting it lightly

Glorify /ˈɡlôrəˌfī/

Verb -praise and worship (God). "music is used to glorify God" -acknowledge and reveal the majesty and splendor of (God) by one's actions. "God can be glorified through a life of scholarship" -describe or represent as admirable, especially unjustifiably. "a football video glorifying violence" -(often disapproving) to make something seem better or more important than it really is -(formal) to praise and worship God

Gear /ɡir/

Verb -prepare, adjust, or equip for a particular purpose or need. "they gear workouts to your specific needs" -design or adjust the gears in a machine to give a specified speed or power output. "it's geared too high for serious off-road use" -to adjust so as to match, blend with, or satisfy something "gearing wages to productivity" Noun -clothing, garments -movable property; goods -equipment, paraphernalia "fishing gear" -the rigging of a ship or boat -the harness especially of horses DIALECTAL • CHIEFLY BRITISH -absurd talk; nonsense DIALECTAL • CHIEFLY BRITISH -doings -a mechanism that performs a specific function in a complete machine "steering gear" -a toothed wheel -working relation, position, order, or adjustment "got her career in gear" -a level or pace of functioning "kicked their performance into high gear" -one of two or more adjustments of a transmission (as of a bicycle or motor vehicle) that determine mechanical advantage, relative speed, and direction of travel

Feign /fān/

Verb -pretend to be affected by (a feeling, state, or injury). "she feigned nervousness"

Feign /fān/

Verb -pretend to be affected by (a feeling, state, or injury). "she feigned nervousness" ARCHAIC -invent (a story or excuse). ARCHAIC -indulge in pretense.

Thwart /THwôrt/

Verb -prevent (someone) from accomplishing something. "he never did anything to thwart his father" -oppose (a plan, attempt, or ambition) successfully. "the government had been able to thwart all attempts by opposition leaders to form new parties" -to oppose successfully : defeat the hopes or aspirations of -to run counter to so as to effectively oppose or baffle; contravene

Forestall /fôrˈstôl/

Verb -prevent or obstruct (an anticipated event or action) by taking action ahead of time. "vitamins may forestall many diseases of aging" -act in advance of (someone) in order to prevent them from doing something. "she started to rise, but Erica forestalled her and got the telephone" HISTORICAL -buy up (goods) in order to profit by an enhanced price.

Attest /əˈtest/

Verb -provide or serve as clear evidence of. "his status is attested by his recent promotion" -declare that something exists or is the case. "I can attest to his tremendous energy" -be a witness to; certify formally. "the witnesses must attest and sign the will in the testator's presence"

Endow /inˈdou,enˈdou/

Verb -provide with a quality, ability, or asset. "he was endowed with tremendous physical strength" INFORMAL -have breasts or a penis of specified size. "I had two brothers who were both better endowed than me" -give or bequeath an income or property to (a person or institution). "he endowed the Church with lands" -establish (a university post, annual prize, etc.) by donating the funds needed to maintain it. "he endowed three chairs at Liverpool University" -to furnish with an income; (especially) to make a grant of money providing for the continuing support or maintenance of "endow a hospital" -to provide with something freely or naturally "endowed with a good sense of humor" -to give a large amount of money to a school, hospital, etc., in order to pay for the creation or continuing support of (something) -to freely or naturally provide (someone or something) with something

Uproot /ˌəpˈro͞ot,ˌəpˈro͝ot/

Verb -pull (something, especially a tree or plant) out of the ground. "the elephant's trunk is powerful enough to uproot trees" -eradicate; destroy. "a revolution is necessary to uproot the social order" -move (someone) from their home or a familiar location. "my father traveled constantly and uprooted his family several times" -to remove as if by pulling up -to pull up by the roots -to displace from a country or traditional habitat KIDS DEFINITION -to take, send, or force away from a country or a traditional home "taking the job would mean moving and uprooting the family."

Jolt /jōlt/

Verb -push or shake (someone or something) abruptly and roughly. "a surge in the crowd behind him jolted him forward" -give a surprise or shock to (someone) in order to make them act or change. "she tried to jolt him out of his depression" -move with sudden lurches. "the train jolted into motion"

Jolt /jōlt/

Verb -push or shake (someone or something) abruptly and roughly. "a surge in the crowd behind him jolted him forward" -give a surprise or shock to (someone) in order to make them act or change. "she tried to jolt him out of his depression" -move with sudden lurches. "the train jolted into motion" -to disturb the composure of; shock "an announcement that jolted the community" -to interfere with roughly, abruptly, and disconcertingly "determination to pursue his own course was jolted badly" -to cause to move with a sudden jerky motion passengers being jolted along a bumpy road -to give a knock or blow to; (specifically) to jar with a quick or hard blow -to move with a sudden jerky motion -to cause to be upset "the bad news jolted us." Noun -an abrupt, sharp, jerky blow or movement "awoke with a jolt" -a sudden feeling of shock, surprise, or disappointment "the news gave them a jolt" -an event or development causing such a feeling "the defeat was quite a jolt" -a serious setback or reverse "a severe financial jolt" -a small but potent or bracing portion of something "a jolt of horseradish"

Sift /sift/

Verb -put (a fine, loose, or powdery substance) through a sieve so as to remove lumps or large particles. "sift the flour into a large bowl" -cause to flow or pass as through a sieve. "Melanie sifted the warm sand through her fingers" -(of snow, ash, etc.) descend or float down lightly or sparsely as if sprinkled from a sieve. "ash began to sift down around them" -examine (something) thoroughly so as to isolate that which is most important or useful. "until we sift the evidence ourselves, we can't comment objectively" -separate something, especially something to be discarded, from something else. "he asked for streamlined procedures to sift out frivolous applications" -to go through especially to sort out what is useful or valuable "sifted the evidence" -often used with through "sift through a pile of old letters" -to scatter by or as if by sifting "sift sugar on a cake" KIDS DEFINITION -to test or examine carefully "police will sift through the evidence." Noun -an act of sifting something, especially so as to isolate that which is most important or useful. "a careful archaeological sift must be made through the debris" -an amount of sifted material. "the floor was dusted with a fine sift of flour"

Resurface /rēˈsərfəs/

Verb -put a new coating on or reform (a surface such as a road, a floor, or ice). "I helped my mother to resurface the kitchen floor" -come back up to the surface. "he resurfaced beside the boat" -reappear -arise or become evident again. "serious concerns about the welfare of animals eventually resurfaced" -(of a person) come out of hiding or obscurity. "he resurfaced under a false identity in Australia" -to provide with a new or fresh surface "resurface skin by dermabrasion"

Quell /kwel/

Verb -put an end to (a rebellion or other disorder), typically by the use of force. "extra police were called to quell the disturbance" -subdue or silence someone. "Connor quelled him with a look" -suppress (a feeling, especially an unpleasant one). "he spoke up again to quell any panic among the assembled youngsters"

Defer /dəˈfər/

Verb -put off (an action or event) to a later time; postpone. "they deferred the decision until February" HISTORICAL•US -postpone the conscription of (someone). "he was no longer deferred from the draft" -submit humbly to (a person or a person's wishes or qualities). "he deferred to Tim's superior knowledge"

Shrug /SHrəɡ/

Verb -raise (one's shoulders) slightly and momentarily to express doubt, ignorance, or indifference. "Jimmy looked inquiringly at Pete, who shrugged his shoulders" -dismiss something as unimportant. "the managing director shrugged off the criticism" Noun -an act or instance of shrugging one's shoulders. "she gave him a dismissive shrug" -a woman's close-fitting cardigan or jacket, cut short at the front and back so that only the arms and shoulders are covered.

Stimulate /ˈstimyəˌlāt/

Verb -raise levels of physiological or nervous activity in (the body or any biological system). "the women are given fertility drugs to stimulate their ovaries" -encourage interest or activity in (a person or animal). "the reader could not fail to be stimulated by the ideas presented" -encourage development of or increased activity in (a state or process). "the courses stimulate a passion for learning"

Stimulate /ˈstimyəˌlāt/

Verb -raise levels of physiological or nervous activity in (the body or any biological system). "the women are given fertility drugs to stimulate their ovaries" -encourage interest or activity in (a person or animal). "the reader could not fail to be stimulated by the ideas presented" -encourage development of or increased activity in (a state or process). "the courses stimulate a passion for learning" -to excite to activity or growth or to greater activity; animate, arouse -to arouse or affect by a stimulant (such as a drug) -to make (something) more active; to cause or encourage (something) to happen or develop -to make (a person) excited or interested in something

Elevate /ˈeləˌvāt/

Verb -raise or lift (something) up to a higher position. "the exercise will naturally elevate your chest and head" -raise to a more important or impressive level. "in the 1920s he was elevated to secretary of state" -(of a priest) hold up (a consecrated host or chalice) for adoration. -increase the level or amount of (something, especially the level of a component of a person's blood). "high amounts of the drug can elevate blood pressure" -raise the axis of (a piece of artillery) to increase its range.

Delve

Verb -reach inside a receptacle and search for something "she delved in her pocket" -research or make painstaking inquiries into something "the society is determined to delve deeper into the matter" -dig; excavate. "when Adam delved and Eve span, who was then the gentleman?" -to dig; to search deeply and thoroughly into

Chastise /ˈCHasˌtīz,ˌCHaˈstīz/

Verb -rebuke or reprimand severely. "he chastised his colleagues for their laziness" DATED -punish, especially by beating. "the General cruelly chastised them with a whip" -to punish severely (as by whipping) -to criticize harshly "the boy was chastised for his behavior."

Grate

Verb -reduce (something, especially food) to small shreds by rubbing it on a grater. -make an unpleasant rasping sound -rub against something with a rasping sound -have an irritating effect

De-emphasize /ˌdēˈemfəsīz/

Verb -reduce the importance or prominence given to (something). "the reform de-emphasized central planning and placed more power in the association of socialized industries" -to reduce in relative importance; also play down

Pulverize /ˈpəlvəˌrīz/

Verb -reduce to fine particles "the brick of the villages was pulverized by the bombardment" -defeat utterly "he had a winning car and pulverized the opposition"

Repudiate

Verb -refuse to accept or be associated with "she has repudiated policies associated with previous party leaders" -deny the truth or validity of "the minister repudiated allegations of human rights abuses" -refuse to fulfill or discharge (an agreement, obligation, or debt) "breach of condition gives the other party the right to repudiate a contract"

Disparage /dəˈsperij/

Verb -regard or represent as being of little worth. "he never missed an opportunity to disparage his competitors" -to speak of as unimportant or bad; belittle "he disparaged the other team." FORMAL -to describe (someone or something) as unimportant, weak, bad, etc. "voters don't like political advertisements in which opponents disparage one another." -to lower in rank or reputation; degrade -to depreciate by indirect means (such as invidious comparison); speak slightingly about "religious beliefs disparaged as superstition"

Spun

Verb -reject with disdain or contempt "he spoke gruffly, as if afraid that his invitation would be spurned" -strike, tread, or push away with the foot

Spurn /spərn/

Verb -reject with disdain or contempt. "he spoke gruffly, as if afraid that his invitation would be spurned" ARCHAIC -strike, tread, or push away with the foot. "with one touch of my feet, I spurn the solid Earth" -to reject with disdain or contempt; scorn -to tread sharply or heavily upon; trample ARCHAIC -to reject something disdainfully OBSOLETE -stumble -kick

Spurn /spərn/

Verb -reject with disdain or contempt. "he spoke gruffly, as if afraid that his invitation would be spurned" ARCHAIC strike, tread, or push away with the foot. "with one touch of my feet, I spurn the solid Earth" Noun ARCHAIC -an act of spurning. "it is a spurn of God's sovereignty, and a slight of his goodness"

Depose /dəˈpōz/

Verb -remove from office suddenly and forcefully. "he had been deposed by a military coup" -to remove from a throne or other high position "plotting to depose the king" -to put down; deposit "deposing the sacrament in a carved recess" LAW -testify to or give (evidence) on oath, typically in a written statement. "every affidavit shall state which of the facts deposed to are within the deponent's knowledge" LAW -to testify to under oath or by affidavit "deposed before the court that he had seen the defendant enter the building" -affirm, assert LAW -to take testimony from especially by deposition "depose a witness" LAW -question (a witness) in deposition.

Unbridle /ˌənˈbrīdl/

Verb -remove the bridle from (a horse or mule). "learn how to bridle and unbridle a horse" -release from restraint. "the forces of the world capitalist market were unbridled and spread quickly" Adjective /ˌənˈbrīdld/ -uncontrolled; unconstrained. "a moment of unbridled ambition" -not controlled or limited : done, felt, or expressed in a free and uncontrolled way

Reconcile /ˈrekənˌsīl/

Verb -restore friendly relations between. "she wanted to be reconciled with her father" -cause to coexist in harmony; make or show to be compatible. "a landscape in which inner and outer vision were reconciled" -make (one account) consistent with another, especially by allowing for transactions begun but not yet completed. "it is not necessary to reconcile the cost accounts to the financial accounts" -settle (a disagreement). "advice on how to reconcile the conflict" -make someone accept (a disagreeable or unwelcome thing). "he could not reconcile himself to the thought of his mother stocking shelves" -to find a way of making (two different ideas, facts, etc.) exist or be true at the same time "i'm afraid her story cannot be reconciled with the proven facts. [=her story must be false because it does not agree with the proven facts]"

Reconcile /ˈrekənˌsīl/

Verb -restore friendly relations between. "she wanted to be reconciled with her father" -cause to coexist in harmony; make or show to be compatible. "a landscape in which inner and outer vision were reconciled" -make (one account) consistent with another, especially by allowing for transactions begun but not yet completed. "it is not necessary to reconcile the cost accounts to the financial accounts" -settle (a disagreement). "advice on how to reconcile the conflict" -make someone accept (a disagreeable or unwelcome thing). "he could not reconcile himself to the thought of his mother stocking shelves" -to restore to friendship or harmony "reconciled the factions" -settle, resolve "reconcile differences" -to make consistent or congruous "reconcile an ideal with reality" -to cause to submit to or accept something unpleasant "was reconciled to hardship" -to check (a financial account) against another for accuracy -to account for KIDS DEFINITION -to make friendly again "she helped to reconcile friends who had been quarreling." -to settle by agreement; adjust "you'll have to reconcile your differences." -to make agree "his story cannot be reconciled with the facts." -to cause to give in or accept "I reconciled myself to the loss."

Abstain

Verb -restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something "abstaining from chocolate" -refrain from drinking alcohol. "most pregnant women abstain or drink very little" -formally decline to vote either for or against a proposal or motion. "forty-one voted with the Opposition, and some sixty more abstained"

Circumscribe /ˈsərkəmˌskrīb/

Verb -restrict (something) within limits. "their movements were strictly monitored and circumscribed" GEOMETRY -draw (a figure) around another, touching it at points but not cutting it. "if a hexagon is circumscribed about a circle the lines joining opposite vertices meet in one point"

Extirpate /ˈekstərˌpāt/

Verb -root out and destroy completely. "the use of every legal measure to extirpate this horrible evil from the land" -to tear up by the roots; to destroy totally

Elope /əˈlōp/

Verb -run away secretly in order to get married, especially without parental consent. "later he eloped with one of the maids"

Enthuse

Verb -say something that expresses one's eager enjoyment, interest, or approval "they both enthused over my new look" -make (someone) interested and eagerly appreciative

Strew

Verb -scatter or spread (things) untidily over a surface or area "a small room with newspaper strewn all over the floor" -cover (a surface or area) with untidily scattered things "the table was strewn with books and papers" -be scattered or spread untidily over (a surface or area) "leaves strewed the path"

Berate

Verb -scold or criticize (someone) angrily. "his mother came out and berated me for raising my voice"

Salivate

Verb -secrete saliva, especially in anticipation of food. "the delicious aroma of rich stews made us salivate" -cause (a person or animal) to produce an unusually copious secretion of saliva. -display great relish at the sight or prospect of something. "I was fairly salivating at the prospect of a $10 million loan"

Woo /wo͞o/

Verb -seek the favor, support, or custom of. "pop stars are being wooed by film companies eager to sign them up" DATED -try to gain the love of (someone), especially with a view to marriage. "he wooed her with quotes from Shakespeare" Woo-woo DEROGATORY•INFORMAL Noun -unconventional beliefs regarded as having little or no scientific basis, especially those relating to spirituality, mysticism, or alternative medicine. "some kind of metaphysical woo-woo" Adjective -relating to or holding unconventional beliefs regarded as having little or no scientific basis, especially those relating to spirituality, mysticism, or alternative medicine. "quartz crystals that were so popular with the woo-woo crowd"

Extract

Verb -select (a passage from a piece of writing, music, or film) for quotation, performance, or reproduction "the table is extracted from the report" Noun -a short passage taken from a piece of writing, music, or film "an extract from a historical film"

Cull /kəl/

Verb -select from a large quantity; obtain from a variety of sources. "anecdotes culled from Greek and Roman history" -reduce the population of (a wild animal) by selective slaughter. "he sees culling deer as a necessity" -send (an inferior or surplus animal on a farm) to be slaughtered. LITERARY -pick (flowers or fruit). "though they may have cleared the weeds, they have also culled the flowers" -selected or chosen from a group "the ... weighty but not overstuffed shelves of carefully culled selections"

Embattle

Verb -set (an army) in battle array "it was three o'clock before the king's army was embattled -fortify (a building or place) against attack Adjective (Embattled) -(of a place or people) involved in or prepared for war, especially because surrounded by enemy forces "the strike came following a failed ceasefire in the embattled country" -(of a person) beset by problems or difficulties "the worst may not be over for the embattled senator"

Vow /vou/

Verb -solemnly promise to do a specified thing. "one fan vowed, "I'll picket every home game."" ARCHAIC -dedicate to someone or something, especially a deity. "I vowed myself to this enterprise"

Jest /jest/

Verb -speak or act in a joking manner. "you jest, surely?" -to say something intended to be funny FORMAL • DATED -to make jokes or jests; to say things intended to be humorous Noun -a joking or mocking remark "a clever jest" -prank -a ludicrous circumstance or incident "a proper jest, and never heard before, that Suffolk should demand a whole fifteenth for costs and charges" -a frivolous mood or manner —usually used with in "spoken in jest" -gaiety and merriment "I knew him, Horatio: a fellow of infinite jest, of excellent fancy" -laughingstock

Permeate /ˈpərmēˌāt/

Verb -spread throughout (something); pervade. "the aroma of soup permeated the air"

Jam

Verb -squeeze or pack tightly into a specified space "four of us were jammed in one compartment" -push (something) roughly and forcibly into position or a space "he jammed his hat on"

Gawk /ɡôk/

Verb -stare openly and stupidly. "they were gawking at some pinup" Noun -an awkward or shy person. "let those country gawks dance to their hearts' content"

Affirm /əˈfərm/

Verb -state as a fact; assert strongly and publicly. "he affirmed the country's commitment to peace" -declare one's support for; uphold; defend. "the referendum affirmed the republic's right to secede" -accept or confirm the validity of (a judgment or agreement); ratify. -make a formal declaration rather than taking an oath (e.g., to testify truthfully). -(of a court) uphold (a decision) on appeal. -offer (someone) emotional support or encouragement. "there are five common ways parents fail to affirm their children" -give (life) a heightened sense of value, typically through the experience of something emotionally or spiritually uplifting. "it is a rich and challenging motion picture that both affirms life and emphasizes its fragility"

Loot /lo͞ot/

Verb -steal goods from (a place), typically during a war or riot. "desperate residents looted shops for food and water" -steal (goods) in a war, riot, etc. "tons of food aid awaiting distribution had been looted" -to plunder or sack in war -to rob especially on a large scale and usually by violence or corruption -to seize and carry away by force especially in war -to rob especially during or following a catastrophe (as war, riot, or natural disaster) -to rob especially on a large scale and usually by violence or corruption Noun -something that is stolen or taken by force "after raiding the town, the soldiers helped themselves to any loot that they could find." INFORMAL -money "he made a lot of loot selling cars." -goods usually of considerable value taken in war; spoils "the soldiers helped themselves to any loot that they could find." -something held to resemble goods of value seized in war: such as -something appropriated illegally often by force or violence "the thieves' loot" -illicit gains by public officials -money "would not ... spend all that loot on her" -the action of looting "general loot of church land"

Adhere /ədˈhir/

Verb -stick fast to (a surface or substance). "paint won't adhere well to a greasy surface" -believe in and follow the practices of. "the people adhere to the Muslim religion" -represent truthfully and in detail. "the account adhered firmly to fact"

Titillate /ˈtidlˌāt/

Verb -stimulate or excite (someone), especially in a sexual way. "these journalists are paid to titillate the public" ARCHAIC -lightly touch; tickle. Adjective (+ing) -arousing mild sexual excitement or interest; salacious. "she let slip titillating details about her clients" -pleasantly stimulating or exciting "titillating reading" -(also) erotic

Titillate /ˈtidlˌāt/

Verb -stimulate or excite (someone), especially in a sexual way. "these journalists are paid to titillate the public" ARCHAIC -lightly touch; tickle. -to excite pleasurably; arouse by stimulation

Lash /laSH/

Verb -strike (someone) with a whip or stick. "they lashed him repeatedly about the head" -(especially of wind or water) beat forcefully against (something). "waves lashed the coast" -(of an animal) move (a part of the body, especially the tail) quickly and violently. "the cat was lashing its tail back and forth" -(of a part of an animal's body) move quickly and violently. "the cat's tail lashed furiously from side to side" -fasten (something) securely with a cord or rope. "the hatch was securely lashed down" Noun (+ing) -an act or instance of whipping. "I threatened to give him a good lashing!" -a cord used to fasten something securely. "the lashings used by primitive peoples are more efficient than metal fastenings"

Pummel /ˈpəməl/

Verb -strike repeatedly with the fists. "Bob did not fight back for the fifteen minutes that the half-dozen men pummeled him" INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -criticize adversely. "he has been pummeled by the reviewers"

Induce /inˈd(y)o͞os/

Verb -succeed in persuading or influencing (someone) to do something. "the pickets induced many workers to stay away" -bring about or give rise to. "none of these measures induced a change of policy" -produce (an electric charge or current or a magnetic state) by induction. "the current in the primary winding is induced by the rotating magnet" PHYSICS -cause (radioactivity) by bombardment with radiation. BIOCHEMISTRY -initiate or enhance (a biochemical process, especially the synthesis of an enzyme). MEDICINE bring on (the birth of a baby) artificially, typically by the use of drugs. "she was 11 days overdue when labor was induced" -bring on childbirth in (a pregnant woman) artificially, typically by the use of drugs. "Carol was induced just four days before her baby's due date" LOGIC -derive by inductive reasoning. "from the experimental evidence, one infers or induces the hypothesis" -(somewhat formal) to cause (someone or something) to do something "The advertisement is meant to induce people to eat more fruit." "No one knows what induced him to leave." -to cause (something) to happen or exist medication to induce vomiting "Her illness was induced by overwork." MEDICAL -to give (a pregnant woman) special medicine in order to make her give birth "The mother was induced." -to cause (labor or birth) to begin by giving special drugs to a pregnant woman "They will induce labor to avoid complications."

Recoil /rəˈkoil/

Verb -suddenly spring or flinch back in fear, horror, or disgust. "he recoiled in horror" -feel fear, horror, or disgust at the thought or prospect of something; shrink mentally. "Renee felt herself recoil at the very thought" -(of a gun) move abruptly backward as a reaction on firing a bullet, shell, or other missile. -rebound or spring back through force of impact or elasticity. "the muscle has the ability to recoil" -to fall back under pressure -(of an action) have an adverse reactive effect on (the originator). "the soothsayers agreed that all the dangers would recoil on the heads of those who were in possession of the entrails" KIDS DEFINITION -to draw back "he recoiled in horror." -to spring back to or as if to a starting position "the rifle recoiled upon firing." Noun -reaction "the recoil from the rigors of Calvinism"

Ache /āk/

Verb -suffer from a continuous dull pain. "my legs ached from the previous day's exercise" -feel intense sadness or compassion. "she sat still and silent, her heart aching" -feel an intense desire for. "she ached for his touch" Adjective (+ing) -sore; throbbing with pain. "the cool air was a relief to my aching head" -feeling intense or wistful sadness; sorrowful. "an aching feeling of nostalgia"

Insinuate

Verb -suggest or hint (something bad or reprehensible) in an indirect and unpleasant way. -slide (oneself or a thing) slowly and smoothly into a position -maneuver oneself into (a position of favor or office) by subtle manipulation "she seemed to be taking over, insinuating herself into the family" -"To insinuate" conveys an unfavorable or slightly sneaky tone, not a favorable tone.

Surmise /sərˈmīz/

Verb -suppose that something is true without having evidence to confirm it. "he surmised that something must be wrong" Noun -a supposition that something may be true, even though there is no evidence to confirm it. "Charles was glad to have his surmise confirmed"

Besiege /bəˈsēj/

Verb -surround (a place) with armed forces in order to capture it or force its surrender; lay siege to. "the guerrillas continued to besiege other major cities to the north" -crowd around oppressively; surround and harass. "she spent the whole day besieged by newsmen" -be inundated by large numbers of requests or complaints. "the television station was besieged with calls" -to surround a city, building, etc., with soldiers and try to take control of it -to gather around (someone) in a way that is aggressive, annoying, etc. -to overwhelm (someone) with too many questions or requests for things Adjective /bəˈsējd/ -(of a place) surrounded by armed forces aiming to capture it or force surrender. "the besieged city"

Ring /riNG/

Verb -surround (someone or something), especially for protection or containment. "the courthouse was ringed with police" -form a line around the edge of (something circular). "dark shadows ringed his eyes" BRITISH -draw a circle around (something), especially to focus attention on it. "an area of Tribeca had been ringed in red" -put a circular band through the nose of (a bull, pig, or other farm animal) to lead or otherwise control it. "in the mid 1850s there were fines for not ringing swine" Adjective /riNGd/ -marked with or encircled by a ring or rings. "a long, ringed tail similar to a tabby cat" ASTRONOMY -(of a planet) having a thin band or disk of rock and ice particles formed in its orbit. "the probe will study the ringed planet for four years" -wearing a ring, as an ornament or a token of marriage, engagement, or authority. "they wore suits with the sleeves pulled back to show ringed fingers" BRITISH•ORNITHOLOGY -(of a bird) having an aluminium strip secured around a leg as a means of identification. "ringed birds have been recovered in winter"

Seize

Verb -take (an opportunity or initiative) eagerly and decisively. "he seized his chance to attack as Delaney hesitated" -To grab suddenly with force; take forcible possession of "army rebels seized an air force base" -take hold of suddenly and forcibly "she jumped up and seized his arm" -(of a feeling or pain) affect (someone) suddenly or acutely "he was seized by the most dreadful fear" -understand (something) quickly or clearly "he always strains to seize the most somber truths"

Preempt /prēˈempt/

Verb -take action in order to prevent (an anticipated event) from happening; forestall. "the second session will focus on policies to pre-empt problems" -act in advance of (someone) in order to prevent them from doing something. "it looked as if she'd ask him more, but Parr preempted her" NORTH AMERICAN -(of a broadcast) interrupt or replace (a scheduled program). "the violence preempted regular programming" -acquire or appropriate (something) in advance. "many tables were already preempted by family parties" NORTH AMERICAN -take (something, especially public land) for oneself so as to have the right of preemption. BRIDGE -make a preemptive bid. Noun -a preemptive bid.

Whisk /(h)wisk/

Verb -take or move (someone or something) in a particular direction suddenly and quickly. "his jacket was whisked away for dry cleaning" -beat or stir (a substance, especially cream or eggs) with a light, rapid movement. US -brush with a whisk broom. Noun -a utensil for whipping eggs or cream. -a bunch of grass, twigs, or bristles for removing dust or flies. -a brief, rapid action or movement. "a whisk around St. Basil's cathedral" US -short for whisk broom.

Displace

Verb -take over the place, position, or role of (someone or something). -cause (something) to move from its proper or usual place -force (someone) to leave their home, typically because of war, persecution, or natural disaster -remove (someone) from a job or position of authority against their will

Bluster

Verb -talk in a loud, aggressive, or indignant way with little effect. "you threaten and bluster, but won't carry it through" -(of a storm, wind, or rain) blow or beat fiercely and noisily. "a winter gale blustered against the sides of the house" Noun -loud, aggressive, or indignant talk with little effect. "their threats contained a measure of bluster"

Quiver

Verb -tremble or shake with a slight rapid motion "the tree's branches stopped quivering" -cause (something) to make a slight rapid motion "the bird runs along in a zigzag path, quivering its wings" Noun -a slight trembling movement or sound, especially one caused by a sudden strong emotion "Meredith felt a quiver of fear" -to tremble or shake because of fear, cold, nervousness, etc.

Rive /rīv/

Verb LITERARY -split or tear apart violently. "the party was riven by disagreements over Europe" ARCHAIC -split or crack (wood or stone). "the wood was riven with deep cracks" ARCHAIC -(of wood or stone) split or crack. "I started to chop furiously, the dry wood riving and splintering under the axe" Adjective -split apart "riven wood [=wood split apart along the grain]" -divided into pieces or factions "a riven nation"

Confide /kənˈfīd/

Verb -tell someone about a secret or private matter while trusting them not to repeat it to others. "he confided his fears to his mother" -trust (someone) enough to tell them of a secret or private matter. "he confided in friends that he and his wife planned to separate" DATED -entrust something to (someone) for safekeeping. "the property of others confided to their care was unjustifiably risked" -to have confidence; trust "we cannot confide wholly in our own powers." -to show confidence by imparting secrets "confide in a friend" -to tell confidentially "he dared not confide the secret to his family." -to give to the care or protection of another; entrust "do not confide your children to strangers." KIDS DEFINITION (Verb) -to have or show faith "confide in a doctor's skill" -to display trust by telling secrets "she needed to confide in a friend." -to tell without anyone else knowing "I confided the secret to a pal." -entrust "the property was confided to their care."

Confide /kənˈfīd/

Verb -tell someone about a secret or private matter while trusting them not to repeat it to others. "he confided his fears to his mother" -trust (someone) enough to tell them of a secret or private matter. "he confided in friends that he and his wife planned to separate" DATED -entrust something to (someone) for safekeeping. "the property of others confided to their care was unjustifiably risked" KIDS DEFINITION -to have or show faith "confide in a doctor's skill" -to display trust by telling secrets "she needed to confide in a friend." -to tell without anyone else knowing "i confided the secret to a pal."

Fling /fliNG/

Verb -throw or hurl forcefully. "he picked up the debris and flung it away" -move or push (something) suddenly or violently. "he flung back the bedclothes" -throw oneself headlong. "he flung himself down at her feet with a laugh" -wholeheartedly engage in or begin on (an enterprise). "the producer flung himself into an ugly battle with the studio" -put on or take off clothes carelessly or rapidly. -utter (words) forcefully. "the words were flung at her like an accusation" -go angrily or violently; rush. "he flung away to his study, slamming the door behind him" -to throw forcefully, impetuously, or casually "flung herself down on the sofa" -to cast as if by throwing "flung off all restraint" -to place or send suddenly and unceremoniously "was arrested and flung into prison" -to give unrestrainedly "flung himself into music" Noun -a short period of enjoyment or wild behavior. "one final fling before a tranquil retirement" -a short, spontaneous sexual relationship. "I had a fling with someone when I was at college" -short for "Highland fling." KIDS DEFINITION (Verb) -to throw hard or without care "she flung the junk out the window." -to move forcefully "he flung his arms around her." (Noun) -an act of throwing hard or without care -a time of freedom for pleasure "the trip was our last fling of the summer." -a brief try "you and I are going to have one more fling at finding that last ticket."

Stir /ˈstər/

Verb -to cause an especially slight movement or change of position of "tied so tightly he could scarcely stir a finger" -to disturb the quiet of; agitate —often used with up "the bear stirred up the bees" -to disturb the relative position of the particles or parts of especially by a continued circular movement "stirred the paint with a paddle" —often used with up "stirred up mud from the lake bottom" -to mix by or as if by stirring "stir one's coffee" —often used with in "stir in the spices" -to bring into notice or debate; raise —often used with up "stir up sensitive issues" -to rouse to activity; evoke strong feelings in "music that stirs the emotions" -to call forth (something, such as a memory); evoke "stir happy remembrances" -provoke "stir a storm of controversy" —often used with up "stir up trouble" -to begin to be active "the factory stirred to life." Noun SLANG -prison

Indoctrinate /in-ˈdäk-trə-ˌnāt/

Verb -to imbue with a usually partisan or sectarian opinion, point of view, or principle -to instruct especially in fundamentals or rudiments; teach -teach (a person or group) to accept a set of beliefs uncritically. "broadcasting was a vehicle for indoctrinating the masses" ARCHAIC -teach or instruct (someone). "he indoctrinated them in systematic theology" -If people are indoctrinated, they are taught a particular belief with the aim that they will reject other beliefs. -to teach (someone) to fully accept the ideas, opinions, and beliefs of a particular group and to not consider other ideas, opinions, and beliefs -to teach especially the ideas, opinions, or beliefs of a certain group

Vie

Verb -to strive for superiority; contend; compete

Nudge (nej)

Verb -to touch or push gently "nudged the cue ball with the tip of the cue." -to touch or push (someone or something) gently -to seek the attention of by a push of the elbow "nudged Ron in the ribs and pointed at Malfoy" -to push (someone) gently with your elbow in order to get that person's attention -to prod lightly; urge into action "have been nudged into starting their own ventures" -to encourage (someone) to do something

Perambulate

Verb -to travel over or through especially on foot -to make an official inspection of (a boundary) on foot

Extradite

Verb -to turn over or deliver to the legal jurisdiction of another government or authority -hand over (a person accused or convicted of a crime) to the jurisdiction of the foreign state in which the crime was committed

Caress /kəˈres/

Verb -touch or stroke gently or lovingly. "she caressed the girl's forehead" -to treat with tokens of fondness, affection, or kindness; cherish "the regiment was fed and caressed at station after station" -to touch or stroke lightly in a loving or endearing manner "she caressed the baby's cheek." -to touch or affect as if with a caress "echoes that caress the ear" Noun -a gentle or loving touch. "she felt the caress of his breath on her cheek" -an act or expression of kindness or affection; endearment "when the gifts and caresses of mankind shall recompense the toils of study" -a light stroking, rubbing, or patting "a gentle caress of her shoulder" -kiss "she gave him a parting caress."

Desecrate

Verb -treat (sacred place or thing) with violent disrespect; violate "more than 300 graves were desecrated"

Trifle /ˈtrīfəl/

Verb -treat (someone or something) without seriousness or respect. "he is not a man to be trifled with" ARCHAIC -talk or act frivolously. "we will not trifle—life is too short" -waste something, especially time, frivolously. "he had trifled away two months at a task which should have taken a week" Adjective -unimportant or trivial. "a trifling sum" -having little value or importance

Peddle

Verb -try to sell (something, especially small goods) by going from house to house or place to place. "he peddled art and printing materials around the country" -sell (an illegal drug or stolen item). "he was arrested after trying to peddle guns" -promote (an idea or view) persistently or widely. "he criticized his fellow candidate for peddling risky ideas" Noun /peddling/ -the activity of selling an illegal drug or stolen item. "youths involved in drug peddling" -the action of promoting an idea or view persistently or widely. "the peddling of fear is a lucrative business"

Avert

Verb -turn away (one's eyes or thoughts) -prevent or ward off (an undesirable occurrence)

Plod /pläd/

Verb -walk doggedly and slowly with heavy steps. "we plodded back up the hill" -work slowly and perseveringly at a dull task. "we were plodding through a textbook" -to walk slowly and usually heavily; trudge -to progress or develop slowly -to work laboriously and monotonously; drudge Adjective -slow-moving and unexciting. "a plodding comedy drama" -(of a person) thorough and hard-working but lacking in imagination or intelligence. "plodding, methodical Ralph Bellamy"

Reel /rēl/

Verb -wind a line onto a reel by turning the reel. "sailplanes are often launched by means of a wire reeled in by a winch" -bring something attached to a line, especially a fish, toward one by turning a reel and winding in the line. "he struck, and reeled in a good perch" -lose one's balance and stagger or lurch violently. "he punched Connolly in the ear, sending him reeling" -walk in a staggering or lurching manner, especially while drunk. "the two reeled out of the bar arm in arm" -feel very giddy, disoriented, or bewildered, typically as a result of an unexpected setback. "the unaccustomed intake of alcohol made my head reel" -dance a reel. -to turn or move round and round -to be in a whirl -to behave in a violent disorderly manner -to waver or fall back (as from a blow) -to walk or move unsteadily Noun -a revolvable device on which something flexible is wound: (such as) a small windlass at the butt of a fishing rod for the line CHIEFLY BRITISH -a spool or bobbin for sewing thread -a flanged spool for photographic film; (especially) one for motion pictures -a quantity of something wound on a reel -a lively Scottish-Highland dance; (also) the music for this dance KIDS DEFINITION Verb -to whirl or spin around -to be in a confused or dizzy state "our heads were reeling with excitement." -to fall back suddenly (as after being hit) -to walk or move unsteadily; stagger Noun -a lively folk dance

Toil

Verb -work extremely hard or incessantly "we toiled away" -move slowly and with difficulty "she began to toil up the cliff path" Noun -exhausting physical labor "a life of toil"

Deify /ˈdēəˌfī/

Verb -worship, regard, or treat (someone or something) as a god. "she was deified by the early Romans as a fertility goddess"

Covet /ˈkəvət/

Verb -yearn to possess or have (something). -to wish for earnestly covet an award -to desire (what belongs to another) inordinately or culpably "the king's brother coveted the throne." -to feel inordinate desire for what belongs to another -to want to have something very much, especially something that belongs to someone

Dilapitate /dəˈlapəˌdāt/

Verb ARCHAIC -cause (something) to fall into disrepair or ruin. "a ruined Chappell, built by the Spaniard, and dilapidated by the Dutch" Adjective /dəˈlapəˌdādəd/ -(of a building or object) in a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect. "old, dilapidated buildings" -in very bad condition because of age or lack of care

Doth /dəTH/

Verb ARCHAIC -is an old-fashioned third person singular form of the verb 'do'.

Forgo /fôrˈɡō,fərˈɡō/

Verb ARCHAIC -precede in place or time. "so Abdulmelik went away to his house, whither he found that the money had foregone him" -omit or decline to take (something pleasant or valuable); go without. "she wanted to forgo the dessert and leave while they could" -refrain from. "we forgo any comparison between the two men" -variant spelling of forgo. -to give up the enjoyment or advantage of : do without "never forwent an opportunity of honest profit"

Betroth /bəˈtrōT͟H,bəˈtrôTH,bəˈtrōT͟H,bəˈtrôTH/

Verb DATED -enter into a formal agreement to marry. "soon I shall be betrothed to Isabel" Noun -the person to whom one is engaged. "how long have you known your betrothed?"

Deem /dēm/

Verb FORMAL -regard or consider in a specified way. "the event was deemed a great success" -to come to think or judge; consider "deemed it wise to go slow" -to have an opinion; believe

Vitiate /ˈviSHēˌāt/

Verb FORMAL -spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of. "development programs have been vitiated by the rise in population" -destroy or impair the legal validity of. "the insurance is vitiated because of foolish acts on the part of the tenant" -to make faulty or defective : IMPAIR "the comic impact is vitiated by obvious haste" — William Styron -to debase in moral or aesthetic status "a mind vitiated by prejudice" -to make ineffective "fraud vitiates a contract" -to make (something) less effective : to ruin or spoil (something)

Dwell /dwel/

Verb FORMAL•LITERARY past tense: dwelt; past participle: dwelt -live in or at a specified place. "groups of people still dwell in these caves"

Predicate

Verb Grammar and Logic -state, affirm, or assert (something) about the subject of a sentence or an argument of a proposition. "a word that predicates something about its subject"

Hobnob /ˈhäbˌnäb/

Verb INFORMAL -mix socially, especially with those of higher social status. "a select few who hobnob with the biggest celebrities the country has to offer" -to spend time with someone (such as a famous or wealthy person) in a friendly way

Vanquish /ˈvaNGkwiSH/

Verb LITERARY -defeat thoroughly. "Mexican forces vanquished the French army in a battle in Puebla" to defeat in a battle or contest, overthrow; to overcome a feeling or condition

Hark /härk/

Verb LITERARY -listen. "Hark! He knocks"

Detour /ˈdēto͝or/

Verb NORTH AMERICAN -take a long or roundabout route. "he detoured around the walls" -avoid or bypass (something) by taking a roundabout route. "I would detour the endless stream of motor homes" -to avoid by going around; bypass "detour an accident site" Noun -a deviation from a direct course or the usual procedure; (especially of) a roundabout way temporarily replacing part of a route

Polarize /ˈpōləˌrīz/

Verb PHYSICS -restrict the vibrations of (a transverse wave, especially light) wholly or partially to one direction. "a polarizing microscope" PHYSICS -cause (something) to acquire polarity. "the electrode is polarized in aqueous solution" -divide or cause to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs. "the cultural sphere has polarized into two competing ideological positions"

Rack /rak/

Verb gerund or present participle: wracking -cause extreme physical or mental pain to; subject to extreme stress. "he was racked with guilt" HISTORICAL -torture (someone) on the rack. -place in or on a rack. "the shoes were racked neatly beneath the dresses" ARCHAIC -raise (rent) above a fair or normal amount. *Rack and wrack are often confused, and there are some ways in which one may easily distinguish between the two words. When employing one of them as a noun you are almost certainly looking for rack. You hang your clothes on a rack, eat a rack of lamb, and, if you are a medieval torture enthusiast, attach someone to a rack to be stretched until bones are broken or joints dislocated. You should use the noun wrack for those happy moments in your life when you need to refer to a wrecked ship or some form of marine vegetation. *Probably the most sensible attitude would be to ignore the etymologies of rack and wrack (which, of course, is exactly what most people do) and regard them simply as spelling variants of one word. If you choose to toe the line drawn by the commentators, however, you will want to write nerve-racking, rack one's brains, storm-wracked, and for good measure wrack and ruin. Then you will have nothing to worry about being criticized for—except, of course, for using too many clichés. *As a noun, rack can be a framework for storing or displaying things, a cut of meat, a bar or rail used for adjusting things, a torture device, and that triangle thing you use to set the balls when playing pool. As a verb, rack can mean to display on a rack, to torture someone on a rack (or to cause pain in general), or to gather or accumulate something. *As a noun, it (wrack) can be a wreckage, a wrecked ship, the leftovers of something destroyed, destruction itself, and kelp and dry seaweed. As a verb, wrack has the same meaning as the verb wreck, which is to damage, ruin, or destroy something. *When we say that something is nerve-racking, we are literally saying that something is causing pain to our nerves. *When we say it's nerve-wracking, we're saying that something is causing damage to our nerves. *We can use wrack instead of rack only in phrases where they share the similar meaning of pain and destruction—such as nerve-(w)racking, (w)rack my brain, (w)racked with guilt. The expression rack and ruin can also be written as wrack and ruin—in fact, the latter way of spelling it seems to be older, and it generally makes more sense.

Sling /sliNG/

Verb past tense: slung; past participle: slung -suspend or arrange (something), especially with a strap or straps, so that it hangs loosely in a particular position. "a hammock was slung between two trees" -carry (something, especially a garment) loosely and casually. "he had his jacket slung over one shoulder" -hoist or transfer (something) with a sling. "horse after horse was slung up from the barges" INFORMAL•BRITISH -throw; fling (often used to express the speaker's casual attitude). "sling a few things into your knapsack" -hurl (a stone or other missile) from a sling or similar weapon. "a boulder that was slung from a catapult"

Cease

Verb -come to an end or bring to an end; no longer continue "the hostilities had ceased and normal life was resumed" -to bring an action or activity to an end Noun -usually used with (without) "I kept an eye upon her without cease"

Fawn /fôn/

Verb (1) -(of a deer) produce young. "the forest was closed for hunting when the does were Noun -a young deer in its first year. "a six-month-old roe fawn" -a light yellowish-brown color. "soft shades of pale green and fawn" -a light grayish brown ——————————————— Verb (2) -(of a person) give a servile display of exaggerated flattery or affection, typically in order to gain favor or advantage. -(of an animal, especially a dog) show slavish devotion, especially by crawling and rubbing against someone. "the dogs started fawning on me" -to show affection —used especially of a dog "the dog was fawning on its master"

Teem /tēm/

Verb (1) -be full of or swarming with. "every garden is teeming with wildlife" -to become filled to overflowing; abound -to be present in large quantity OBSOLETE -to become pregnant; conceive ARCHAIC -bring forth; give birth to; produce Verb (2) -(of water, especially rain) pour down; fall heavily. "with the rain teeming down at the manor, Italy seemed a long way off" -empty, pour "teem molten metal into a mold" KIDS DEFINITION Verb -to be full of something "the streams teemed with fish."

Halt /hôlt/

Verb (1) -bring or come to an abrupt stop. "there is growing pressure to halt the bloodshed" -used as a military command to bring marching soldiers to a stop. "company, halt!" -to cease marching or journeying -to stop or cause to stop marching or traveling -discontinue; terminate "the project halted for lack of funds" -to bring to a stop "the strike halted subways and buses" -to cause the discontinuance of; end "halt hostilities" Noun (1) -a suspension of movement or activity, typically a temporary one. "a halt in production" -stop "the car came to a halt." Adjective (2) ARCHAIC -(of a person) having a physical disability. "if a man were halt or hunch'd" -having a manner of walking that is impaired by a limp; lame Verb (2) -walk with a limp. "he halted slightly in his walk" -to walk or proceed lamely; limp -to be in a state of uncertainty or doubt between alternate courses or choices; waver -to display weakness or imperfection; falter "the argument often halts and sometimes breaks down completely."

Post /pōst/

Verb (1) -display (a notice) in a public place. "a curt notice had been posted on the door" -put notices on or in. "we have posted all the bars" -announce or publish (something, especially a financial result). "the company posted a $460,000 loss" -publish the name of (a member of the armed forces) as missing or dead. "a whole troop had been posted missing" -publish (a piece of writing, image, or other item of content) online, typically on a blog or social media website. "she posted a photo of herself with the singer on Twitter" -(of a player or team) achieve or record (a particular score or result). "he posted a victory in Japan to lead the series" Verb (2) -BRITISH send (a letter or parcel) via the postal system. "I've just been to post a letter" -(in bookkeeping) enter (an item) in a ledger. "post the transaction in the second column" -complete (a ledger) by posting transactions. HISTORICAL -travel with relays of horses. "we posted in an open carriage" ARCHAIC -travel with haste; hurry. "he comes posting up the street" Verb (3) -send (someone) to a particular place to take up an appointment. "he was posted to Washington as military attaché" -station (someone, especially a soldier, guard, or police officer) in a particular place. "a guard was posted at the entrance" Noun (1) /ˈpōstiNG/ BRITISH -an appointment to a job, especially one abroad or in the armed forces. "he requested a posting to Japan" -the location of an appointment to a job. "Norway was an attractive posting because of its quality of life" Noun (2) /ˈpōstiNG/ -a piece of writing, image, or other item of content published online, typically on a blog or social media website or application. "internet service providers can't be held liable for defamatory postings"

Sap /sap/

Verb (1) -gradually weaken or destroy (a person's strength or power). "our energy is being sapped by bureaucrats and politicians" -drain someone of (strength or power). "her illness had sapped her of energy and life" -to diminish the physical strength of "weeks of hard work had sapped her and left her exhausted" Noun (2) HISTORICAL -a tunnel or trench to conceal an assailant's approach to a fortified place. Verb (2) HISTORICAL -dig a sap or saps. "having sapped up to the glacis of the city ramparts, Versaillais troops entered the city" ARCHAIC -make insecure by removing the foundations of. "a crazy building, sapped and undermined by the rats" GEOGRAPHY -undercut by water or glacial action. "the waves sapped the cliffs" Noun (3) INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -a foolish and gullible person. "He fell for it! What a sap!" -one who is easily deceived or cheated "some poor sap would probably fall for that telephone scam" Noun INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN -a bludgeon or club. -a heavy rigid stick used as a weapon or for punishment "the sadistic prison guards freely used their saps to enforce discipline"

Balk (Baulk)

Verb (Bok) -hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking -thwart or hinder (a plan or person) -prevent a person or animal from having (something) -(of a horse) refuse to go on. -miss or refuse (a chance or invitation)