Enrichment Words
self-indulgent antonym and definition
austere Adj excessive or unrestrained gratification of one's own appetites, desires, or whims
affable antonym and definition
austere Adj friendly and easy to talk to
plain synonym and definition
austere Adj having no pattern or decoration : not having any added or extra things : easy to see or understand
sober synonym and definition
austere Adj having or showing a very serious attitude or quality : plain in color
orotund antonym and definition
austere Adj marked by fullness, strength, and clarity of sound
forbidding synonym and definition
austere Adj not friendly or appealing : having a frightening or threatening appearance
undecorated synonym and definition
austere Adj not made more attractive
strict synonym and definition
austere Adj used to describe a command, rule, etc., that must be obeyed : demanding that people obey rules or behave in a certain way : carefully obeying the rules or principles of a religion or a particular way of life
florid antonym and definition
austere Adj very fancy or too fancy : having a red or reddish color
somber synonym and definition
austere Adj very sad and serious : having a dull or dark color
kosher synonym and definition
authentic Adj accepted by Jewish law as fit for eating or drinking : selling or serving kosher food : proper or acceptable
help antonym and definition
baffle Verb to do something that makes it easier for someone to do a job, to deal with a problem, etc. : to aid or assist someone
zealous synonym and definition
avid Adj feeling or showing strong and energetic support for a person, cause, etc. : filled with zeal
fervent synonym and definition
avid Adj felt very strongly : having or showing very strong feelings
rabid synonym and definition
avid Adj having or expressing a very extreme opinion about or interest in something
fervid synonym and definition
avid Adj having or showing feelings that are very strong or too strong
unresponsive antonym and definition
avid Adj not giving a reaction or response
indifferent antonym and definition
avid Adj not interested in or concerned about something
apathy antonym and definition
avid Noun the feeling of not having much emotion or interest : an apathetic state
indifference antonym and definition
avid Noun lack of interest in or concern about something : an indifferent attitude or feeling
What does Ab-, Abs- mean?
away from, off Ex: abrasion, absent, abrogate, absurd
vex synonym and definition
badger verb to annoy or worry (someone)
calm antonym and definition
badger verb to become or to cause (someone) to become less upset, emotional, excited, etc. : to become or to cause (something) to become less active, violent, forceful, etc.
pacify antonym and definition
badger verb to cause (someone who is angry or upset) to become calm or quiet
leave in peace antonym and definition
badger verb to stop bothering (someone)
harry synonym and definition
badger verb to torment by or as if by constant attack
bait synonym and definition
badger verb to try to make (someone) angry by using criticism or insults
hassle synonym and definition
badger verb : something that is annoying or that causes trouble : a fight or argument
harass synonym and definition
badger verb : to annoy or bother (someone) in a constant or repeated way : to make repeated attacks against (an enemy)
soothe antonym and definition
badger verb : to cause (someone) to be calmer, less angry, etc. : to cause (a part of the body) to feel better : to cause (pain) to go away or become less severe
plague synonym and definition
badger verb : to cause constant or repeated trouble, illness, etc., for (someone or something) : to cause constant worry or distress to (someone)
irritate synonym and definition
badger verb : to make (someone) impatient, angry, or annoyed : to make (part of your body) sore or painful
pester synonym and definition
badger verb to annoy or bother (someone) in a repeated way
torment synonym and definition
badger verb to cause (someone or something) to feel extreme physical or mental pain
mystifying synonym and definition
baffle Adj an action or process connected with confusing (someone) completely
bewildering synonym and definition
baffle Adj an action or process connected with confusing someone very much
mystified synonym and definition
baffle Adj confused completely
enigmatic synonym and definition
baffle Adj full of mystery and difficult to understand
quizzical synonym and definition
baffle Adj showing that you do not understand something or that you find something strange or amusing
perplexed synonym and definition
baffle Adj unable to understand something clearly or to think clearly
understand antonym and definition
baffle Verb to know the meaning of (something, such as the words that someone is saying or a language) : to know how (something) works or happens : to know how (someone) thinks, feels, or behaves
aid antonym and definition
baffle Verb to provide what is useful or necessary
comprehend antonym and definition
baffle Verb to understand (something, such as a difficult or complex subject)
assist antonym and definition
baffle Verb to give support or help : to make it easier for someone to do something or for something to happen
fathom antonym and definition
baffle Verb to understand the reason for (something)
mystify synonym and definition
baffle verb to confuse (someone) completely
bewilder synonym and definition
baffle verb to confuse (someone) very much
stump synonym and definition
baffle verb to frustrate the progress or efforts of
foil synonym and definition
baffle verb to prevent from attaining an end
confound synonym and definition
baffle verb to surprise and confuse (someone or something) : to prove (someone or something) wrong
nonplus synonym and definition
baffle verb a state of bafflement or perplexity
curmudgeon synonym and definition
cantankerous noun a person (especially an old man) who is easily annoyed or angered and who often complains
pugnacious synonym and definition
belligerent Adj showing a readiness or desire to fight or argue
pacific antonym and definition
belligerent Adj calm and peaceful : loving peace : not wanting war or conflict
dovish antonym and definition
belligerent Adj describing a person who does not want war and does want peace
conciliatory antonym and definition
belligerent Adj describing a process to make (someone) more friendly or less angry
hawkish synonym and definition
belligerent Adj describing one who takes a militant attitude and advocates immediate vigorous action; especially : a supporter of a war or warlike policy
militant synonym and definition
belligerent Adj having or showing a desire or willingness to use strong, extreme, and sometimes forceful methods to achieve something
contentious synonym and definition
belligerent Adj likely to cause people to argue or disagree : involving a lot of arguing : likely or willing to argue
peaceable antonym and definition
belligerent Adj not liking or wanting to fight or argue : not involving violence or fighting
martial synonym and definition
belligerent Adj of or relating to war or soldiers
detrimental antonym and definition
benign Adj causing damage or injury
noxious antonym and definition
benign Adj harmful to living things
benevolent synonym and definition
benign Adj kind and generous : organized to do good things for other people
favorable synonym and definition
benign Adj : showing approval : expressing approval : giving or providing what is desired : giving a result that helps, benefits, or shows approval of someone
auspicious synonym and definition
benign Adj : showing or suggesting that future success is likely
pernicious antonym and definition
benign Adj causing great harm or damage often in a way that is not easily seen or noticed
injurious antonym and definition
benign Adj causing injury
deleterious antonym and definition
benign Adj damaging or harmful
salutary synonym and definition
benign Adj having a good or helpful result especially after something unpleasant has happened
malevolent antonym and definition
benign Adj having or showing a desire to cause harm to another person
inimical antonym and definition
benign Adj likely to cause damage or have a bad effect : not friendly
salubrious synonym and definition
benign Adj making good health possible or likely
beneficial synonym and definition
benign Adj producing good or helpful results or effects : producing benefits
squabble synonym and definition
bicker verb a noisy altercation or quarrel usually over petty matters
wrangle synonym and definition
bicker verb to argue angrily with someone
dicker synonym and definition
bicker verb to talk or argue with someone about the conditions of a purchase, agreement, or contract
haggle synonym and definition
bicker verb to talk or argue with someone especially in order to agree on a price
concur antonym and definition
bicker verb to agree with someone or something
agree antonym and definition
bicker verb to have the same opinion : to say that you will do, accept, or allow something that is suggested or requested by another person
orthodox antonym and definition
bizarre Adj accepted as true or correct by most people : supporting or believing what most people think is true
square antonym and definition
bizarre Adj being conservative, or conventional
sedate antonym and definition
bizarre Adj keeping a quiet steady attitude or pace
staid antonym and definition
bizarre Adj serious, boring, or old-fashioned
eccentric synonym and definition
bizarre Adj tending to act in strange or unusual ways : strange or unusual
normal antonym and definition
bizarre Adj usual or ordinary : not strange
freakish synonym and definition
bizarre Adj very strange or abnormal
far-out synonym and definition
bizarre Adj very strange or unusual
outlandish synonym and definition
bizarre Adj very strange or unusual : extremely different from what is normal or expected
sober antonym and definition
bizarre Adj : having or showing a very serious attitude or quality
conventional antonym and definition
bizarre Adj : used and accepted by most people : usual or traditional : of a kind that has been around for a long time and is considered to be usual or typical : common and ordinary : not unusual
cheerless synonym and definition
bleak Adj not causing happiness or warm feelings : bleak or gloomy
upbeat antonym and definition
bleak Adj positive and cheerful : happy and hopeful
dismal synonym and definition
bleak Adj showing or causing unhappiness or sad feelings : not warm, cheerful, etc.
chilling synonym and definition
bleak Adj very disturbing or frightening
encouraging antonym and definition
bleak Adj : causing a hopeful feeling
raw synonym and definition
bleak Adj : disagreeably damp or cold
cheerful antonym and definition
bleak Adj : feeling or showing happiness
mild antonym and definition
bleak Adj : gentle in nature or behavior : not strong in action or effect : not strong or harsh in taste
promising antonym and definition
bleak Adj : likely to succeed or to be good : full of promise
forbidding synonym and definition
bleak Adj : not friendly or appealing : having a frightening or threatening appearance
blithe antonym and definition
bleak Adj : showing a lack of proper thought or care : not caring or worrying : happy and without worry
calm antonym and definition
boisterous Adj a quiet and peaceful state or condition : a peaceful mental or emotional state
riotous synonym and definition
boisterous Adj behaving in a violent and uncontrolled way
unruly synonym and definition
boisterous Adj difficult to control
vociferous synonym and definition
boisterous Adj expressing feelings or opinions in a very loud or forceful way : expressed in a very loud or forceful way
tempestuous synonym and definition
boisterous Adj full of strong emotions (such as anger or excitement)
clamorous synonym and definition
boisterous Adj marked by confused din or outcry : tumultuous : noisily insistent
quiet antonym and definition
boisterous Adj the quality or state of being quiet or calm
halcyon antonym, definition and note
boisterous Adj very happy and successful It comes from the Greek word word halkyon, or kingfisher (a seabird) which was said to have the power to calm the wind and the waves while it nested on the sea during the winter solstice. Halcyon days are the days of fine weather that occur about that time or any period of peace and tranquility.
uproarious synonym and definition
boisterous Adj very noisy
orderly antonym and definition
boisterous Adj a quiet and peaceful state or condition : a peaceful mental or emotional state
disorderly synonym and definition
boisterous Adj causing a problem especially in a public place by making a lot of noise, behaving violently, etc.
obstreperous synonym and definition
boisterous Adj difficult to control and often noisy
hushed antonym and definition
boisterous Adj made quiet calm or still
muffled antonym and definition
boisterous Adj made quieter
loud synonym and definition
boisterous Adj making or causing a lot of noise : strong and noticeable in sound
turbulent synonym and definition
boisterous Adj moving in an irregular or violent way : full of confusion, violence, or disorder : not stable or steady
peaceful antonym and definition
boisterous Adj quiet and calm : without noise, excitement, etc. : not fighting a war : not involving violence or force
tranquil antonym and definition
boisterous Adj quiet and peaceful
sedate antonym and definition
boisterous Adj slow and relaxed : quiet and peaceful
muted antonym and definition
boisterous Adj soft or quiet in sound : quieter than usual
disruptive synonym and definition
boisterous Adj something that interrupts the normal course or unity of
fustian synonym and definition
bombastic Adj high-flown or affected writing or speech; broadly : anything high-flown or affected in style
lean antonym and definition
bombastic Adj lacking richness, sufficiency, or productiveness
extravagant synonym and definition
bombastic Adj more than is usual, necessary, or proper : very fancy
bloated synonym and definition
bombastic Adj obnoxiously vain
grandiose synonym and definition
bombastic Adj seeming to be impressive or intended to be impressive but not really possible or practical
high-sounding synonym and definition
bombastic Adj using words that are meant to sound important and impressive
claptrap synonym and definition
bombastic Adj words, ideas, etc., that are very foolish or stupid
plain antonym and definition
bombastic Adj : not having any added or extra things
rant synonym and definition
bombastic Adj a : a bombastic extravagant speech b : bombastic extravagant language
grandiloquent synonym and definition
bombastic Adj a lofty, extravagantly colorful, pompous, or bombastic style, manner, or quality especially in language
terse antonym and definition
bombastic Adj brief and direct in a way that may seem rude or unfriendly
direct antonym and definition
bombastic Adj coming straight from a cause or reason : connected or related to something in a clear way
straightforward antonym and definition
bombastic Adj easy to do or understand : not complicated : honest and open
turgid synonym and definition
bombastic Adj excessively embellished in style or language
swollen synonym and definition
bombastic Adj filled with pride and arrogance spoken in a pompous, blustering, or self-important manner
unembellished antonym and definition
bombastic Adj not decorated, without ornamentation
artless antonym and definition
bombastic Adj not false or artificial
unpretentious antonym and definition
bombastic Adj not having or showing the unpleasant quality of people who want to be regarded as more impressive, successful, or important than they really are
spare antonym and definition
bombastic Adj not liberal or profuse
hyperbolic synonym and definition
bombastic Adj of, relating to, or marked by language that describes something as better or worse than it really is
unvarnished antonym and definition
bombastic Adj plain and direct
highfalutin synonym and definition
bombastic Adj seeming or trying to seem great or important
muted antonym and definition (2)
bombastic Adj toned down
high-flown synonym and definition
bombastic Adj using fancy words that are meant to sound important and impressive
succinct antonym and definition
bombastic Adj using few words to state or express an idea
suave antonym and definition
boorish Adj behaving in a relaxed, confident, and pleasant way in social situations
gauche synonym and definition
boorish Adj having or showing a lack of awareness about the proper way to behave : socially awkward
unmannerly synonym and definition
boorish Adj in an unmannerly fashion
diplomatic antonym and definition
boorish Adj not causing bad feelings : having or showing an ability to deal with people politely
vulgar synonym and definition
boorish Adj not having or showing good manners, good taste, or politeness
churlish synonym and definition
boorish Adj not polite
urbane antonym and definition
boorish Adj polite and confident : fashionable and somewhat formal
ill-bred synonym and definition
boorish Adj rude and impolite : having or showing bad manners
lowbred synonym and definition
boorish Adj rude, vulgar
polished antonym and definition
boorish Adj : to smooth, soften, or refine in manners or condition to bring to a highly developed, finished, or refined state
uncouth synonym and definition
boorish Adj behaving in a rude way : not polite or socially acceptable
tactful antonym and definition
boorish Adj careful not to offend or upset other people : having or showing tact
ill-mannered synonym and definition
boorish Adj having or showing bad manners : rude or impolite
crass synonym and definition
boorish Adj having or showing no understanding of what is proper or acceptable : rude and insensitive
discreet antonym and definition
boorish Adj not likely to be seen or noticed by many people
crude synonym and definition
boorish Adj rude in a way that makes people uncomfortable; especially : talking about sexual matters in a rude way
yahoo synonym and definition
boorish noun a person who is very rude, loud, or stupid
lout synonym and definition
boorish noun a stupid, rude, or awkward man
style antonym and definition
boorish noun a distinctive manner or custom of behaving or conducting oneself
vulgarian synonym and definition
boorish noun a vulgar person
social savvy antonym and definition
boorish noun having or showing perception, comprehension, or shrewdness relating to interaction with other people
class antonym and definition
boorish noun high quality : elegance
finesse antonym and definition
boorish noun skill and cleverness that is shown in the way someone deals with a situation, problem, etc.
savoir fair antonym and definition
boorish noun the ability to behave in a correct and confident way in different situation
ostracize synonym and definition
boycott verb to not allow (someone) to be included in a group : to exclude (someone) from a group
embargo synonym and definition
boycott noun a legal prohibition on commerce
sanction antonym and definition
boycott verb official permission or approval
approve antonym and definition
boycott verb to believe that something or someone is good or acceptable
patronize antonym and definition
boycott verb to give money or support to
blacklist synonym and definition
boycott verb a list of people, organizations, etc., that are disapproved of or that are to be punished or avoided
support antonym and definition
boycott verb to agree with or approve of
fraternize with antonym and definition
boycott verb to be friendly with someone : to spend time with someone in a friendly way especially when it is considered wrong or improper to do so
proscribe synonym and definition
boycott verb to make (something) illegal : to not allow (something)
black-ball synonym and definition
boycott verb to prevent (someone) from joining a group, club, etc., by voting against him or her
endorse antonym and definition
boycott verb to publicly or officially say that you support or approve of (someone or something)
ban synonym and definition
boycott verb and noun (verb) to forbid people from using (something) : to say that something cannot be used or done (noun) legal or formal prohibition
cautious antonym and definition
brash Adj careful about avoiding danger or risk
impudent synonym and definition
brash Adj failing to show proper respect and courtesy : very rude
foolhardy synonym and definition
brash Adj foolishly doing things that are too dangerous or risky
gauche synonym and definition (2)
brash Adj having or showing a lack of awareness about the proper way to behave : socially awkward
shameless synonym and definition
brash Adj having or showing no shame
reckless synonym and definition
brash Adj not showing proper concern about the possible bad results of your actions
considerate antonym and definition
brash Adj thinking about the rights and feelings of other people : showing kindness toward other people
brazen synonym and definition
brash Adj acting or done in a very open and shocking way without shame or embarrassment
impetuous synonym and definition
brash Adj acting or done quickly and without thought : controlled by emotion rather than thought
tactful antonym and definition (2)
brash Adj careful not to offend or upset other people : having or showing tact
rash synonym and definition
brash Adj doing something quickly and without thinking carefully about what will happen as a result
prudent antonym and definition
brash Adj having or showing careful good judgment
wary antonym and definition
brash Adj not having or showing complete trust in someone or something that could be dangerous or cause trouble
impertinent synonym and definition
brash Adj rude and showing a lack of respect
saucy synonym and definition
brash Adj rude usually in a lively and playful way
tactless synonym and definition
brash Adj tending to offend or upset people : not showing or having tact
circumspect antonym and definition
brash Adj thinking carefully about possible risks before doing or saying something
precipitate synonym and definition
brash Adj to move or act with violent or unwise speed
bluff synonym and definition
bravado Noun an attempt to deceive someone into believing that one can or will do something.
audacity antonym and definition
bravado noun a confident and daring quality that is often seen as shocking or rude : an audacious quality
pluck antonym and definition
bravado noun a quality that makes you continue trying to do or achieve something that is difficult : courage and determination
fearlessness antonym and definition
bravado noun not afraid : very brave
bluster synonym and definition
bravado noun to speak in a loud and aggressive or threatening way
daring antonym and definition
bravado noun willing to do dangerous or difficult things : showing a lack of fear
gallantry antonym and definition
bravado noun : very brave behavior
valor antonym and definition
bravado noun courage or bravery
intrepidity antonym and definition
bravado noun feeling no fear : very bold or brave
braggadocio synonym and definition
bravado noun the annoying or exaggerated talk of someone who is trying to sound very proud or brave
stoutheartedness antonym and definition
bravado noun the quality of being brave and determined
dauntlessness antonym and definition
bravado noun the quality of being very brave
cockiness synonym and definition
bravado noun the quality of having or showing confidence in a way that is annoying to other people
bravery antonym and definition
bravado noun the quality that allows someone to do things that are dangerous or frightening : the quality or state of being brave
swagger synonym and definition
bravado noun to conduct oneself in an arrogant or superciliously pompous manner; especially : to walk with an air of overbearing self-confidence
define gasconade
bravado, boasting
terse synonym and definition
brusque Adj brief and direct in a way that may seem rude or unfriendly
affable antonym and definition
brusque Adj friendly and easy to talk to
effusive antonym and definition
brusque Adj marked by the expression of great or excessive emotion or enthusiasm
gruff synonym and definition
brusque Adj rough or very serious in manner or speech
harsh synonym and definition (2)
brusque Adj causing a disagreeable or painful sensory reaction
rough synonym and definition
brusque Adj characterized by harshness, violence, or force
polite antonym and definition
brusque Adj having or showing good manners or respect for other people
impolite synonym and definition
brusque Adj not polite
civil antonym and definition
brusque Adj polite but not friendly : only as polite as a person needs to be in order to not be rude
cordial antonym and definition
brusque Adj politely pleasant and friendly
uncivil synonym and definition
brusque Adj rude or impolite
curt synonym and definition
brusque Adj said or done in a quick and impolite way
blunt synonym and definition
brusque Adj saying or expressing something in a very direct way that may upset some people
sharp synonym and definition
brusque Adj severe, harsh: as cutting in language or import
voluble antonym and definition
brusque Adj talking a lot in an energetic and rapid way
dexterous antonym and definition
bungle Adj having or showing great skill or cleverness
inept synonym and definition
bungle Adj lacking skill or ability : showing a lack of skill or ability : not done well
deft antonym and definition
bungle Adj skillful and clever : able to do something quickly and accurately
skillful antonym and definition
bungle Adj accomplished with trained ability
workman-like antonym and definition
bungle Adj characterized by the skill and efficiency typical of a good workman; also : competent and skillful but not outstanding or original
competent antonym and definition
bungle Adj having the required skills for an acceptable level of performance
clumsy synonym and definition
bungle Adj lacking or showing a lack of nimbleness in using one's hands
incompetent synonym and definition
bungle Adj lacking qualities (as knowledge, skill, or ability) required to do a job
awkward synonym and definition
bungle Adj lacking social grace and assurance
adroit antonym and definition
bungle Adj very clever or skillful
whiz antonym and definition
bungle Noun a person with a high level of knowledge or skill in a field
expert antonym and definition
bungle Noun accomplished with trained ability
ace antonym and definition
bungle Noun having or showing exceptional knowledge, experience, or skill in a field of endeavor
klutz synonym and definition
bungle noun a clumsy, awkward person
foul up synonym and definition
bungle verb to cause an entanglement, blockage : bungle
spoil synonym and definition
bungle verb to have a bad effect on (something) : to damage or ruin (something)
mar synonym and definition
bungle verb to ruin the beauty or perfection of (something) : to hurt or damage the good condition of (something)
botch synonym and definition
bungle verb to do (something) badly : to ruin (something) because of carelessness or a lack of skill
bollix up synonym and definition
bungle verb to make or do (something) in a clumsy or unskillful way
mangle synonym and definition
bungle verb to spoil, injure, or make incoherent especially through ineptitude
butcher synonym and definition
bungle verb and noun A: (noun) one that bungles or botches B: to do (something) very badly : to make a mess of (something)
falsehood synonym and definition
calumny noun : an untrue statement : the quality of not being true or accurate : false quality
flattery antonym and definition
calumny noun : praise that is not sincere
libel synonym and definition
calumny noun : the act of publishing a false statement that causes people to have a bad opinion of someone
slander synonym and definition
calumny noun : to make a false spoken statement that causes people to have a bad opinion of someone
aspersion synonym and definition
calumny noun a : a false or misleading charge meant to harm someone's reputation b : the act of making such a charge : defamation
ambiguous antonym and definition
candid Adj able to be understood in more than one way : having more than one possible meaning : not expressed or understood clearly
objective synonym and definition
candid Adj based on facts rather than feelings or opinions : not influenced by feelings
artful antonym and definition
candid Adj good at getting or achieving things in ways that are clever and not noticeable : used to get or achieve things in ways that are clever and not noticeable
unbiased synonym and definition
candid Adj not having or showing an unfair tendency to believe that some people, ideas, etc., are better than others : not biased
evasive antonym and definition
candid Adj not honest or direct
disinterested synonym and definition
candid Adj not influenced by personal feelings, opinions, or concerns : having no desire to know about a particular thing : not interested
unreserved synonym and definition
candid Adj not limited or partial : entire, unqualified
disingenuous antonym and definition
candid Adj not truly honest or sincere : giving the false appearance of being honest or sincere
equivocal antonym and definition
candid Adj : having two or more possible meanings : not easily understood or explained
spontaneous synonym and definition
candid Adj done or said in a natural and often sudden way and without a lot of thought or planning : doing things that have not been planned but that seem enjoyable and worth doing at a particular time
balanced synonym and definition
candid Adj equality between the totals of the two sides of an account
biased antonym and definition
candid Adj having or showing a bias : having or showing an unfair tendency to believe that some people, ideas, etc., are better than others
forthright synonym and definition
candid Adj honest and direct : providing answers or information in a very clear and direct way
unprejudiced synonym and definition
candid Adj not having a feeling of like or dislike for someone or something especially when it is not reasonable or logical or bias for or especially against
reserved antonym and definition
candid Adj not openly expressing feelings or opinions
impromptu synonym and definition
candid Adj not prepared ahead of time : made or done without preparation
reticent antonym and definition
candid Adj not willing to tell people about things
prejudiced antonym and definition
candid Adj resulting from or having a prejudice or bias for or especially against
partial antonym and definition
candid Adj tending to treat one person, group, or thing better than another
straight-from-the-shoulder synonym and definition
candid Adj very direct, without attenuation or embellishment
testy synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj becoming angry or annoyed easily
good-natured antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj friendly, pleasant, or cheerful
cranky synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj given to fretful fussiness : readily angered when opposed : crotchety
even tempered antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj not easily upset or made angry
grouchy synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj tending to complain about things : having a bad temper
equable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj tending to remain calm : free from sudden or harsh changes
crabby synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj unhappy and tending to complain a lot
imperturbable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj very calm : very hard to disturb or upset
amenable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj willing to agree or to accept something that is wanted or asked for : able to be controlled, organized, or affected by something
contrary synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj : a fact or condition incompatible with another : opposite —usually used with the
peevish synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj : feeling or showing irritation
perverse synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj arising from or indicative of stubbornness or obstinacy : marked by peevishness or petulance : cranky
irritable synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj becoming angry or annoyed easily
irascible synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj becoming angry very easily : having a bad temper
cross-grained synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj difficult to deal with
ornery synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj easily annoyed or angered : difficult to deal with or control
tractable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj easily managed or controlled
docile antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj easily taught, led, or controlled
lovable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj easy to love : having attractive or appealing qualities
affable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj friendly and easy to talk to
amiable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj friendly and pleasant
choleric synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj made angry easily
genial antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj marked by or diffusing sympathy or friendliness
unexcitable antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj not capable of being readily roused into action or a state of excitement or irritability
sweet tempered antonym and definition
cantankerous Adj not easily irritated or made angry.
intractable synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj not easily managed, controlled, or solved : not easily relieved or cured
unamenable synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj not willing to agree or to accept something that is wanted or asked for
bearish synonym and definition
cantankerous Adj resembling a bear in build or in roughness, gruffness, or surliness
grouch synonym and definition
cantankerous noun a person who complains frequently or constantly
Neurosurgeon definition
A person who performs surgery of nervous structures (as nerves, the brain, or the spinal cord)
Meteorologist definition
A person who studies and specializes in the science that deals with the atmosphere and with weather
Who is a quack and by extension, what/who does this word apply to?
A quack (from quacksalver) is a person who makes false claims about the salves and other medications that he/she sells. By extension, the word indicates anyone who makes false or exaggerated claims about his/her medical knowledge, skills, or techniques.
Describe Grundyism.
A rigid insistence upon strict conformity to the accepted moral or social code.
What was an auspex? What words do we get from this word?
A specialist among soothsayers or diviners in ancient Rome was the auspex, who depended specifically on the flight of birds. From this title, we get the word auspicious, meaning "favorable, under good omens." and its opposite, inauspicious.
define white-collar worker
A white collar worker is known for earning high average salaries and not performing manual labor at their jobs
writ of habeas corpus definition
A writ of habeas corpus (literally to "produce the body") is a court order to a person (prison warden) or agency (institution) holding someone in custody to deliver the imprisoned individual to the court issuing the order.
What is the corresponding Greek prefix for AMBI-?
AMPHI-
Define abrupt and identify its prefix
Ab, Abs (literally, "broken off") sudden or hasty
Define abduct and identify its prefix
Ab, Abs (literally, "to lead away") to take away by force
Define abscond and identify its prefix
Ab, Abs to depart secretly
Define abstract and identify its prefix
Ab, Abs to draw from. The noun abstract means "a brief summary or a shorter form of the original"
Divest oneself of synonym and definition
Abdicate (divest: verb, finance : to sell (something valuable, such as property or stocks))
Relinquish/waive a right related phrase
Abdicate (waive: verb; : to officially say that you will not use or require something that you are allowed to have or that is usually required)
Hold on to antonym and definition
Abdicate intransitive verb. : to maintain possession of or adherence to
Retain antonym and definition
Abdicate verb to continue to have or use (something) : to keep (someone) in a position, job, etc. : to pay for the work of (a person or business)
Relinquish synonym and definition
Abdicate verb to give up (something) : to give (something, such as power, control, or possession) to another person or group
Renounce synonym and definition
Abdicate verb : to say especially in a formal or official way that you will no longer have or accept (something) : to formally give up (something) : to say in a formal or definite way that you refuse to follow, obey, or support (someone or something) any longer
Resign synonym and definition
Abdicate verb to give up (a job or position) in a formal or official way
with the connivance of related phrase
Abet (connivance noun;: the act of conniving; especially : knowledge of and active or passive consent to wrongdoing)
in league with related phrase
Abet (league,noun;b (1) : an association of persons or groups united by common interests or goals (2) : a group of sports teams that regularly play one another c : an informal alliance <in league with her sister>)
further synonym and definition
Abet adverb : to or at a more distant place or time : to a greater degree or extent : in addition to what has been said
curb antonym and definition
Abet noun : a short border along the edge of a street that is usually made of stone or concrete : something that controls or limits something else
block antonym and definition
Abet noun, often attributive : something that makes it difficult to do something : an object that you have to go around or over : something that blocks your path
egg on synonym and definition
Abet transitive verb : to incite to action —usually used with on
thwart antonym and definition
Abet transitive verb : to prevent (someone) from doing something or to stop (something) from happening
help synonym and definition
Abet verb to do something that makes it easier for someone to do a job, to deal with a problem, etc. : to aid or assist someone : to make something less severe : to make something more pleasant or easier to deal with : to give (yourself or another person) food or drink
frustrate antonym and definition
Abet verb : to cause (someone) to feel angry, discouraged, or upset because of not being able to do something : to prevent (efforts, plans, etc.) from succeeding : to keep (someone) from doing something
promote synonym and definition
Abet verb : to change the rank or position of (someone) to a higher or more important one : to move (a sports team) to a higher position in a league : to help (something) happen, develop, or increase
dissuade antonym and definition
Abet verb : to convince (someone) not to do something
inhibit antonym and definition
Abet verb : to keep (someone) from doing what he or she wants to do : to prevent or slow down the activity or occurrence of (something)
hinder antonym and definition
Abet verb : to make (something, such as a task or action) slow or difficult
define skilled worker
An individual that is knowledgeable about a specific skill or trade.
ordinary antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj the regular or customary condition or course of things
congruous antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj 1 a : being in agreement, harmony, or correspondence b : conforming to the circumstances or requirements of a situation : appropriate 2 : marked or enhanced by harmonious agreement among constituent elements
commonplace antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : an idea, expression, remark, etc., that is not new or interesting : something that happens or appears in many places and is not unusual
deviant synonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : different from what is considered to be normal or morally correct
abnormal synonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : different from what is normal or average : unusual especially in a way that causes problems
usual antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : done, found, or used most of the time or in most cases : normal or regular
regular antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : happening over and over again at the same time or in the same way : occurring every day, week, month, etc. : happening at times that are equally separated : happening or done very often
typical antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : normal for a person, thing, or group : average or usual : happening in the usual way
irregular synonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : not normal or usual : not following the usual rules about what should be done : not even or smooth : not regular in form or shape : happening or done at different times that change often
atypical synonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : not typical : not usual or normal
incongruous synonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : strange because of not agreeing with what is usual or expected
normal antonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : usual or ordinary : not strange
freakish synonym and definition
Anomaly Adj : very strange or abnormal
misfit synonym and definition
Anomaly Noun : a person who is different from other people and who does not seem to belong in a particular group or situation
oddity synonym and definition
Anomaly Noun : a strange or unusual person or thing : the quality or state of being strange or unusual
freak synonym and definition
Anomaly Noun : one that is markedly unusual or abnormal
Abnormality synonym and definition
Anomaly Noun : something that is not usual, expected, or normal : something that is abnormal
peculiarity synonym and definition
Anomaly Noun : the quality or state of being unusual or peculiar : something that is unusual or peculiar in a person or thing
incongruity synonym and definition
Anomaly Noun :something that is strange because of not agreeing with what is usual or expected
the norm antonym and definition
Anomaly Noun the norm : an average level of development or achievement the norm : something (such as a behavior or way of doing something) that is usual or expected
uninterested synonym, definition and usage note
Apathy Adj not wanting to learn more about something or become involved in something : not interested -Usage Note: Be careful not to confuse uninterested and disinterested. A person is said to be uninterested when he or she takes no interest in something; a person is said to be disinterested, however, when he or she has no self-interest involved in the matter. Thus, uninterested is a synonym of apathetic, but disinterested means the same as impartial.
aloof synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : at a distance
zealous antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : feeling or showing strong and energetic support for a person, cause, etc. : filled with zeal
concerned antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : feeling worry or concern : having an interest or involvement in something : having a relation to something
fervent antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : felt very strongly : having or showing very strong feelings
keen antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : having or showing an ability to think clearly and to understand what is not obvious or simple about something : very strong and sensitive : highly developed : very excited about and interested in something
ardent antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : having or showing very strong feelings
passionate antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : having, showing, or expressing strong emotions or beliefs : expressing or relating to strong sexual or romantic feelings
detached synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : not emotional : not influenced by emotions or personal interest : not joined or connected : separate from another part or thing
indifferent synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : not interested in or concerned about something : neither good nor bad : not very good
unfeeling synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : not kind or sympathetic toward other people
impassive synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : not showing emotion
stolid synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : showing little or no emotion : not easily excited or upset
emotionless synonym and definition
Apathy Adj : showing, having, or expressing no emotion
interested antonym and definition
Apathy Adj : wanting to learn more about something or to become involved in something : having the desire to do or have something : having a direct or personal involvement in something
interest antonym and definition
Apathy Noun : a feeling of wanting to learn more about something or to be involved in something : a quality that attracts your attention and makes you want to learn more about something or to be involved in something : something (such as a hobby) that a person enjoys learning about or doing
ardor antonym and definition
Apathy Noun : a strong feeling of energy or eagerness : a strong feeling of love
fervor antonym and definition
Apathy Noun : a strong feeling of excitement and enthusiasm
zeal antonym and definition
Apathy Noun : a strong feeling of interest and enthusiasm that makes someone very eager or determined to do something
unconcern synonym and definition
Apathy Noun : lack of care about or interest in something
detachment synonym and definition
Apathy Noun : lack of emotion or of personal interest : the act or process of separating something from a larger thing : a condition in which something has become separated from something else
indifference synonym and definition
Apathy Noun : lack of interest in or concern about something : an indifferent attitude or feeling
enthusiasm antonym and definition
Apathy Noun : strong excitement about something : a strong feeling of active interest in something that you like or enjoy : something causing a feeling of excitement and active interest : a hobby that someone feels enthusiastic about
concern antonym and definition
Apathy Noun : to make (someone) worried : to cause concern for (someone)
aloofness synonym and definition
Apathy Noun The state of being at a distance; a lack of emotion or care
impassivity synonym and definition
Apathy Noun The state of not showing emotion/
frightful synonym and definition
Appall Adj : causing fear : very bad or shocking : very strong
horrific synonym and definition
Appall Adj : causing horror or shock
fearful synonym and definition
Appall Adj : feeling fear : showing or caused by fear : very bad or extreme
gratifying antonym and definition
Appall Adj : giving pleasure or satisfaction
dreadful synonym and definition
Appall Adj : very bad or unpleasant
shocking synonym and definition
Appall Adj : very surprising and upsetting or causing a sudden feeling of horror or disgust : very bad
stunning synonym and definition
Appall Adj : very surprising or shocking : very beautiful or pleasing
horrifying synonym and definition
Appall Adj Causing to feel horror, filling with distaste, shocking
cheering antonym and definition
Appall Adj causing someone to feel happier and more hopeful
exhilarating antonym and definition
Appall Adj causing someone to feel very happy and excited
shock synonym and definition
Appall Verb (1) : a disturbance in the equilibrium or permanence of something (2) : a sudden or violent mental or emotional disturbance
horrify synonym and definition
Appall Verb : to cause (someone) to feel horror or shock : to greatly upset and shock (someone)
exhilarate antonym and definition
Appall Verb : to cause (someone) to feel very happy and excited
dismay synonym and definition
Appall Verb : to cause (someone) to feel very worried, disappointed, or upset
astound synonym and definition
Appall Verb : to fill with bewilderment or wonder
gladden antonym and definition
Appall Verb : to make (someone) glad
please antonym and definition
Appall Verb : to make (someone) happy or satisfied : to make a choice about what to do, have, etc.
elate antonym and definition
Appall Verb : to make (someone) very happy and excited
stupefy synonym and definition
Appall Verb : to shock or surprise (someone) very much : to cause (someone) to become confused or unable to think clearly
equipment synonym and definition
Array Noun : supplies or tools needed for a special purpose : the act of equipping someone or something
alignment synonym and definition
Array Noun : the act of aligning or state of being aligned; especially : the proper positioning or state of adjustment of parts (as of a mechanical or electronic device) in relation to each other 2 a : a forming in line b : the line thus formed
lineup synonym and definition
Array Noun : the players on such a list : a group of people who are going to perform at an event
accountrement synonym and definition
Array Noun a : equipment, trappings; specifically : a soldier's outfit usually not including clothes and weapons —usually used in plural
draw up synonym and definition
Array Verb : to bring (as troops) into array 2 : to prepare a draft or version of
outfit synonym and definition
Array Verb to provide (someone or something) with equipment or clothes especially for a special purpose
accoutrements synonym and definition
Array Verb : a piece of clothing or equipment that is used in a particular place or for a particular activity
gussy up synonym and definition
Array Verb : dress up, embellish
marshal synonym and definition
Array Verb : to arrange (a group of people, such as soldiers) in an orderly way : to move or lead (a group of people) in a careful way : to arrange or prepare (something, such as your thoughts or ideas) in a clear, effective, or organized way
align synonym and definition
Array Verb : to arrange things so that they form a line or are in proper position : to change (something) so that it agrees with or matches something else : to join a group that is supporting or opposing something
assemble synonym and definition
Array Verb : to collect (things) or gather (people) into one place or group : to meet together in one place : to connect or put together the parts of (something, such as a toy or machine)
dismiss antonym and definition
Array Verb : to decide not to think about or consider (something or someone) : to send (someone) away : to cause or allow (someone) to leave : to officially make (someone) leave a job : to end the employment or service of (someone)
doll up synonym and definition
Array Verb : to dress elegantly or extravagantly 2 : to make more attractive (as by decorating)
disband antonym and definition
Array Verb : to end an organization or group (such as a club)
disperse antonym and definition
Array Verb : to go or move in different directions : to spread apart
adorn synonym and definition
Array Verb : to make (someone or something) more attractive by adding something beautiful
deploy synonym and definition
Array Verb : to organize and send out (people or things) to be used for a particular purpose : to open up and spread out the parts of (something, such as a parachute)
equip synonym and definition
Array Verb : to provide (someone) with necessary materials or supplies : to provide (something) with a particular feature or ability : to prepare (someone) for a particular activity or problem
muster synonym and definition
Array Verb : to work hard to find or get (courage, support, etc.) : to gather together (a group of people, soldiers, etc.) especially for battle or war
deck out synonym and definition
Array Verb to decorate a person or object with something, usually for a special occasion
fluent synonym and definition
Articulate Adj : able to speak a language easily and very well : done in a smooth and easy way
silver-tongued synonym and definition
Articulate Adj : able to speak in a way that makes other people do or believe what you want them to do or believe
eloquent synonym and definition
Articulate Adj : having or showing the ability to use language clearly and effectively : clearly showing feeling or meaning
inarticulate antonym and definition
Articulate Adj : not able to express ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writing : not articulate : not able to speak : not expressed clearly or easily understood
incoherent antonym and definition
Articulate Adj : not able to talk or express yourself in a clear way that can be easily understood : not logical or well-organized : not easy to understand
glib synonym and definition
Articulate Adj : said or done too easily or carelessly : showing little preparation or thought : speaking in a smooth, easy way that is not sincere
garbled antonym and definition
Articulate Adj : to cause (a word, name, message, etc.) to be unclear or confusing
slurred antonym and definition
Articulate Adj : to make indistinct : obscure
unintelligible antonym and definition
Articulate Adj impossible to understand.
explicate synonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to explain or analyze (something, such as an idea or work of literature)
expound synonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to explain or state (something) : to give details about (something)
elucidate synonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to make (something that is hard to understand) clear or easy to understand
clarify synonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to make (something) easier to understand : to make (a liquid) purer or easier to see through
enunciate synonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to make a clear statement of (ideas, beliefs, etc.) : to pronounce words or parts of words clearly
mumble antonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to say (something) quietly in an unclear way that makes it difficult for people to know what you said
mutter antonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to speak quietly so that it is difficult for other people to hear what you say : to complain in a quiet or indirect way
maunder antonym and definition
Articulate Verb : to talk for a long time in a boring way
swallow one's words antonym and definition
Articulate Verb › to be forced to admit that something you have said has been shown to be wrong:
What is the difference between fallible and fallacious?
As adjectives the difference between fallible and fallacious is that fallible is capable of making mistakes or being wrong while fallacious is characterized by fallacy; false or mistaken.
unsymmetrical synonym and definition
Askew Adj : having two sides or halves that are not the same : not symmetrical
uneven synonym and definition
Askew Adj : not level, flat, or smooth : not straight or parallel : not following a regular pattern : not the same in all parts or at all times
crooked synonym and definition
Askew Adj : not straight : having bends and curves : not set or placed straight : not honest
awry synonym and definition
Askew Adj : not working correctly or happening in the expected way : not straight or neat
cockeyed synonym and definition
Askew Adj : turned or tilted to one side : not straight : crazy or foolish
disdainfully synonym and definition
Askew Adverb : feeling strong dislike or disapproval for something or someone you think does not deserve respect : feeling or showing disdain
symmetrical antonym and definition
Askew Adverb : having sides or halves that are the same : having or showing symmetry
askance synonym and definition
Askew Adverb : in a way that shows a lack of trust or approval
straight antonym and definition
Askew Adverb : not having curves, bends, or angles : vertical or level : following one after the other in order : following each other without interruption
benignly antonym and definition
Askew Adverb Acting in a way that shows a gentle disposition or kindness and gentleness
approvingly antonym and definition
Askew Adverb Acting in a way that shows that you believe that something or someone is good or acceptable.
derisively synonym and definition
Askew Adverb expressing or causing the feeling that people express when they criticize and laugh at someone or something in an insulting way
contemptuously synonym and definition
Askew Adverb in a way that shows that you are feeling or showing deep hatred or disapproval : feeling or showing contempt
adjust synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb to change (something) in a minor way so that it works better : to change the position of (something) : to change in order to work or do better in a new situation
digest synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : absorb
insulate antonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to add a material or substance to (something) in order to stop heat, electricity, or sound from going into or out of it : to prevent (someone or something) from dealing with or experiencing something : to keep (someone or something) separate from something unpleasant, dangerous, etc.
naturalize synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to allow (someone who was born in a different country) to become a new citizen : to cause (a plant or animal from another place) to begin to grow and live in a new area
merge synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to cause (two or more things, such as two companies) to come together and become one thing : to join or unite (one thing) with another : to become joined or united : to change into or become part of something else in a very gradual way
transform synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to change (something) completely and usually in a good way
homogenize synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to change (something) so that its parts are the same or similar
integrate synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to combine (two or more things) to form or create something : to make (something) a part of another larger thing : to make (a person or group) part of a larger group or organization
appropriate synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to get or save (money) for a specific use or purpose : to take or use (something) especially in a way that is illegal, unfair, etc.
incorporate synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to include (something) as part of something else
isolate antonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to put or keep (someone or something) in a place or situation that is separate from others : to find and deal with (something, such as a problem) by removing other possibilities : to separate (something, such as a chemical) from another substance : to get (something) or an amount of (something) that is not mixed with or attached to anything else
segregate antonym and definition
Assimilate Verb : to separate groups of people because of their particular race, religion, etc. : to not allow people of different races to be together in (a place, such as a school)
fuse synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb to become blended or joined by or as if by melting together
acculturate synonym and definition
Assimilate Verb to change through cultural modification of an individual, group, or people by adapting to or borrowing traits from another culture; also : a merging of cultures as a result of prolonged contact
Define antecedent and identify its root
Ced going before. A person's antecedents are his ancestors or forerunners.
Define procedure and identify its root
Ced the regular, definite order by which something is done.
Define secede and identify its root
Ced to break away from; to withdraw from membership in. Noun: secession
Define recede and identify its root
Ced to go back, to withdraw. Noun: recession
Define exceed and identify its root
Ced to go beyond what is necessary or proper. Noun: excess; Adj: excessive; Adverb: exceedingly, excessively
Define proceed and identify its root
Ced to go forward Noun: procession
Define concede and identify its root
Ced to grant or admit. Noun: concession
What is the origin of Ced?
Ced is a Latin root.
What is the difference between ceremonious and ceremonial?
Ceremonial means being used for or relating to a formal ritual or event. Ceremonial may also mean a position that bestows only nominal authority or power. Ceremonial is an adjective, a word that modifies a noun. Ceremonial comes from the Latin, caerimonia which means religious worship. Ceremonious means pertaining to or appropriate for a formal ritual or event. Ceremonious may also mean overly polite. Ceremonious is an adjective, a word that modifies a noun. Ceremonious comes the French cérémonieux.
leery synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj : feeling or showing a lack of trust in someone or something
diplomatic synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj : not causing bad feelings : having or showing an ability to deal with people politely
vigilant synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj carefully noticing problems or signs of danger
brash antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj confident and aggressive in usually a rude or unpleasant way : very strong or harsh
rash antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj done or made quickly and without thought about what will happen as a result
judicious synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj having or showing good judgment
incautious antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not careful about avoiding danger or risk : not cautious
wary synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not having or showing complete trust in someone or something that could be dangerous or cause trouble
indiscreet antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not having or showing good judgment : revealing things that should not be revealed : not discreet; also : not polite
heedless antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not paying careful attention
imprudent antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not wise or sensible : not prudent
tactless antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj tending to offend or upset people : not showing or having tact
precipitate antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj to move or act with violent or unwise speed
careful synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj using care : made, done, or said with care
guarded synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj very careful about giving information, showing feelings, etc.
careless antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj : not using care : not careful : done, made, or said without enough thought or attention
watchful synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj always watching the actions of someone or something : paying careful attention to someone or something
chary synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj cautious about doing something
foolhardy antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj foolishly doing things that are too dangerous or risky
discreet synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not likely to be seen or noticed by many people
reckless antonym and definition
Circumspect Adj not showing proper concern about the possible bad results of your actions
politic synonym and definition
Circumspect Adj showing good judgment especially in dealing with other people
terse synonym and definition
Concise Adj brief and direct in a way that may seem rude or unfriendly
brief synonym and definition
Concise Adj lasting only a short period of time : using only a few words
loquacious antonym and definition
Concise Adj liking to talk and talking smoothly and easily
compact synonym and definition
Concise Adj smaller than other things of the same kind : using little space and having parts that are close together : closely or firmly packed or joined togethe
garrulous antonym and definition
Concise Adj tending to talk a lot : very talkative
pithy synonym and definition
Concise Adj using few words in a clever and effective way
laconic synonym and definition
Concise Adj using few words in speech or writing
summary synonym and definition
Concise Adj using few words to give the most important information about something
verbose antonym and definition
Concise Adj using more words than are needed
wordy antonym and definition
Concise Adj using or containing too many words
prolix antonym and definition
Concise Adj using too many words
long-winded antonym and definition
Concise Adj using too many words in speaking or writing
succinct synonym and definition
Concise Adj using few words to state or express an idea
What is the difference between contemptible and contemptuous?
Contemptible, then, means "able to be scorned, worthy of contempt." It refers to the person or thing the contempt is aimed at. Contemptuous means "full of contempt, showing scorn."
impeach and convict difference, which branch of the US government has the power to impeach a president? Which has the power to try and judge him?
Convict: declare (someone) to be guilty of a criminal offense by the verdict of a jury or the decision of a judge in a court of law. Impeach: charge (the holder of a public office) with misconduct. Note: One is about the holder of a public office, the other is general use. The House of Representatives has the power to begin the impeachment process, and the Senate will try and judge him.
Name the origin and definition of the prefix BE-
The Germanic prefix BE- means "thoroughly" or "completely". It is used to (A) give greater force or thoroughness to an action, to (B) make an intransitive verb transitive and to (C) form a verb or participial adjective from a noun.
What is the origin and meaning of the root *chron(o)*?
The Greek root *chron(o)* means "time". It is found in a small number of English words, including "chronic" and "anachronism".
What is the origin and meaning of the prefix *circum*?
The Latin prefix *circum*, meaning "around" or "about," occurs in a number of English words, including "circuitous", "circumspect" and "circumvent" ,all of which were studied in this lesson.
What is the difference between fortunate and fortuitous?
The adjective fortuitous means happening by accident or chance. It's synonymous with random and accidental. Fortuitous is often conflated with fortunate, meaning (1) bringing something good or unforeseen or (2) having good luck.
What is the difference between laudable and laudatory?
The adjective laudatory, meaning expressing praise, describes the expression of praise. Laudable, meaning praiseworthy, applies to the person, thing, or event receiving the praise.
What is an Armageddon and what is its background
The last and completely destructive battle. In the New Testament of the bible, Revelation 16:16 uses this word to describe the place of the final battle or the final battle itself at the end of the world between the forces of good (God) versus the forces of evil.
judicial review definition
The principle by which courts can declare acts of either the executive branch or the legislative branch unconstitutional.
due process of law definition
The principle that an individual cannot be deprived of life, liberty, or property without appropriate legal procedures and safeguards.
Usage note for the synonyms and antonyms of authentic
The synonyms and antonyms listed for authentic include a number of colloquial or slang terms, including "fake", "phony", "bogus", and "fishy". Kosher, a colloquial term meaning "legitimate or proper" has come into English (via Yiddish) from the Hebrew word kasher, meaning "in accordance with Jewish dietary laws and therefore, clean or proper"
Definition of red tape
The term "red tape" is used critically to describe bureaucratic procedures that are considered unnecessarily rigid, complicated, and time-consuming .When we say that something "is tied up in red tape," we mean that there are so many regulations, so many papers to be filled out, so many technicalities to observe that it is difficult to get anything done.
Origin of red tape
The term is said to have been introduced by Charles Dickens and popularized by Thomas Carlyle, the English historian. It originated from the common use of pieces of red tape to tie together bundles of legal papers in English courts and governmental offices. today, official papers are more likely to be processed by a computer than tied together by a clerk, but people still complain about the delays and frustrations caused by too much red tape.
Describe modern censors and their powers.
The word censor and the powers connected with the office or the act have passed down to present-day society. Various public officials in the United States possess a limited power of censorship over moving pictures, written materials, TV programs, etc., although the word itself is likely to be avoided. Of course, censorship is limited by the First Amendment guarantees of freedom and expression.
What is the origin of the word "Grundyism"?
The word derives from Mrs. Grundy, an overly proper character in the English playwright Thomas Morton's comedy *Speed The Plough* (1798)
What is the origin of the word "Comstockery"?
The word is derived from Anthony Comstock (1844-1915), an American author and an aggressive, if somewhat bigoted, crusader against what he considered immorality.
Where does the word sanctuary come from and what is associated with being a sanctuary?
The word sanctuary (from Sanctus [Latin] "sacred) denotes a holy place, usually the most sacred place in a church. In biblical times, the sanctuary sheltered the Ark of the Covenant. In ancient and medieval times, churches and monasteries served as a place of sanctuary for persons fleeing violence or penalties of the laws. Once inside, a fugitive would claim "the right of sanctuary" or immunity from arrest or injury. To injure such a protected person or to remove him by force was regarded as a sacrilege. The abuse of this privilege led to its general abolition, although it survives in modern times in certain situations.
Name the origin and definition of the prefix AMBI-
This Latin prefix means "both" or "around".
Name the origin and meaning of the root VERT,VERS
This Latin root means "turn"
spartan definition and origin
a person of great courage and self-discipline From Sparta, because the inhabitants of Sparta were traditionally held to be indifferent to comfort or luxury.
conflict of interest definition
a conflict between the private interests and the official responsibilities of a person in a position of trust
Define war of nerves
a conflict characterized by psychological tactics (as bluff, threats, and intimidation) designed primarily to create confusion, indecision, or breakdown of morale
franchise definition
a constitutional or statutory right or privilege; especially : the right to vote
scofflaw
a contemptuous law violator
felony definition
a crime, typically one involving violence, regarded as more serious than a misdemeanor, and usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death.
senatorial courtesy definition
a custom of the United States Senate of refusing to confirm a presidential appointment of an official in or from a state when the appointment is opposed by the senators or senior senator of the president's party from that state
silhouette definition and origin
a dark shape in front of a light background : a picture of something showing it as a dark shape on a light background; especially : such a picture showing a person's face from the side From Étienne de Silhouette
philippic definition and origin
a discourse or declamation full of bitter condemnation From Greek philippikos, the name given to Demosthenes' speeches against Philip II of Macedon, also to those of Cicero against Mark Antony.
Obstetrician definition
a doctor who specializes in obstetrics ( a branch of medicine that deals with the birth of children and with the care of women before, during, and after they give birth to children)
Ophthalmologist definition
a doctor who studies and treats problems and diseases of the eye
popular sovereignty definition
a doctrine in political theory that government is created by and subject to the will of the people
Achilles' heel definition and origin
a fault or weakness that causes or could cause someone or something to fail From the only weak spot on the famous Greek hero Achilles
Define skirmish
a fight between small bodies of troops, especially advanced or outlying detachments of opposing armies.
ultimatum
a final threat : a promise that force or punishment will be used if someone does not do what is wanted
writ definition
a form of written command in the name of a court or other legal authority to act, or abstain from acting, in some way.
quitclaim definition
a formal renunciation or relinquishing of a claim.
plea definition
a formal statement by or on behalf of a defendant or prisoner, stating guilt or innocence in response to a charge, offering an allegation of fact, or claiming that a point of law should apply.
Indictment definition
a formal written accusation of a crime
consensus
a general agreement about something : an idea or opinion that is shared by all the people in a group
Define a harebrained scheme
a giddy or reckless plan
Define embargo
a government order that limits trade in some way
Define a sheepish grin
a grin that shows one feels embarrassed or bashful, as by having done something wrong or foolish
define limerick
a humorous rhyming poem of five lines
define injunction
a judicial order that restrains a person from beginning or continuing an action threatening or invading the legal right of another, or that compels a person to carry out a certain act, e.g., to make restitution to an injured party.
grand jury definition
a jury, normally of twenty-three jurors, selected to examine the validity of an accusation before trial.
amphitheater definition and prefix
a kind of theater or stadium that has seats going all around the stage or arena
define craft union
a labor union of people of the same skilled craft
Define armada
a large group of ships, boats, etc.
statute definition
a law passed by a duly authorized law-making body
define cologne
a liquid that has a light, pleasant smell and that people put on their skin : a light kind of perfume that does not have a strong smell
marathon definition and origin
a long-distance running race, strictly one of 26 miles and 385 yards From the tradition that a messenger ran from Marathon to Athens (22 miles) with the news of a Greek victory over Persia
Define rendezvous
a meeting or meeting place
Define guerrilla
a member of a band of irregular soldiers that uses guerrilla warfare, the use of hit-and-run tactics by small, mobile groups of irregular forces operating in territory controlled by a hostile, regular force, harassing the enemy by surprise raids, sabotaging communication and supply lines, etc.
pocket veto definition
a method that the President can use to prevent a bill from becoming a law by not signing the bill before the session of Congress ends
the feminist movement definition.
a movement to combat sexual discrimination and to gain full legal, economic, vocational, educational, and social rights and opportunities for women, equal to those of men.
misdemeanor definition
a non-indictable offense, regarded in the US (and formerly in the UK) as less serious than a felony.
define horsemanship
a person (especially a man) who rides horses : a person (especially a man) who breeds or raises horses
Define a bookworm
a person devoted to reading or studying.
Define hostage
a person given or held as security for the fulfillment of certain conditions or terms, promises, etc., by another.
tort definition
a wrongful act or an infringement of a right (other than under contract) leading to civil legal liability.
Definition of chronicle
a year-by-year record of historical events; to record events in this way Noun: chronicler
benediction antonym and definition
anathema noun : a prayer that asks for God's blessing
eulogy antonym and definition
anathema noun : a speech that praises someone who has died
imprecation synonym and definition
anathema noun : an offensive word or phrase that people say when they are angry
undiscerning antonym and definition
astute Adj not able to see and understand people, things, or situations clearly and intelligently
unperceptive antonym and definition
astute Adj not having or showing an ability to understand or notice something easily or quickly
empty-headed antonym and definition
astute Adj not intelligent
stupid antonym and definition
astute Adj not intelligent : having or showing a lack of ability to learn and understand things : not sensible or logical
obtuse antonym and definition
astute Adj stupid or unintelligent : not able to think clearly or to understand what is obvious or simple
acumen synonym and definition
astute Noun the ability to think clearly and make good decisions
perceptiveness synonym and definition
astute Noun : having or showing an ability to understand or notice something easily or quickly
discernment synonym and definition
astute Noun the ability to see and understand people, things, or stituations clearly and intelligently
reduction synonym and definition
attrition noun the act of making something smaller in size, amount, number, etc. : the act of reducing something
diminution synonym and definition
attrition noun the act or process of becoming less
erosion synonym and definition
attrition noun the gradual destruction of something by natural forces (such as water, wind, or ice) : the process by which something is eroded or worn away
exhaustion synonym and definition
attrition noun the state of being extremely tired : the state of being exhausted : the act of using all of something : the act of exhausting something
increase antonym and definition
attrition noun to become larger or greater in size, amount, number, etc. : to make (something) larger or greater in size, amount, number, etc.
enervation synonym and definition
attrition noun lacking physical, mental, or moral vigor
expansion antonym and definition
attrition noun the act of becoming bigger or of making something bigger : the act of expanding
Abrasion synonym and definition
attrition noun the act or process of damaging or wearing away something by rubbing, grinding, or scraping
augmentation antonym and definition
attrition noun the act or process of increasing the size or amount of
lessen antonym and definition
augment verb to become less or to cause (something) to become less
diminish antonym and definition
augment verb to become or to cause (something) to become less in size, importance, etc. : to lessen the authority or reputation of (someone or something) : to describe (something) as having little value or importance
slacken antonym and definition
augment verb to become slower or less active : to slow down : to make (something) slower or less active
shrink antonym and definition
augment verb to become smaller in amount, size, or value : to make (something) smaller in amount, size, or value : to quickly move away from something shocking, frightening, or disgusting
abate antonym and definition
augment verb to become weaker : to decrease in strength
extend synonym and definition
augment verb to cause (something, such as your arm or leg) to straighten out or to stretch out : to become longer or to be able to become longer : to continue in a specified direction or over a specified distance, space, or time
dwindle antonym and definition
augment verb to gradually become smaller
reduce antonym and definition
augment verb to make (something) smaller in size, amount, number, etc. : to cause (someone) to be in a specified state or condition : to cause (something) to be in a specified form by breaking it, burning it, etc.
curtail antonym and definition
augment verb to reduce or limit (something)
shrivel antonym and definition
augment verb : to become dry and wrinkled from heat, cold, or old age : to cause (something) to become dry and wrinkled
expand synonym and definition
augment verb : to increase in size, range, or amount : to become bigger : to cause (something) to increase in size, range, or amount : to make (something) bigger
increase synonym and definition
augment verb to become larger or greater in size, amount, number, etc. : to make (something) larger or greater in size, amount, number, etc.
decrease antonym and definition
augment verb to become smaller in size, amount, number, etc. : to make (something) smaller in size, amount, number, etc.
magnify synonym and definition
augment verb to make (something) greater : to make (something) seem greater or more important than it is : to make (something) appear larger
enlarge synonym and definition
augment verb to make (something) larger or to become larger
contract antonym and definition
augment verb to make (something) smaller or shorter : to become smaller : to become ill with (a disease)
mild antonym and definition
austere Adj gentle in nature or behavior : not strong in action or effect : not strong or harsh in taste
kindly antonym and definition
austere Adj having or showing a gentle nature and a desire to help others
gentle antonym and definition
austere Adj having or showing a kind and quiet nature : not harsh or violent : not hard or forceful : not strong or harsh in effect or quality
elaborate antonym and definition
austere Adj made or done with great care or with much detail : having many parts that are carefully arranged or planned
unadorned synonym and definition
austere Adj not decorated or fancy : not adorned
ascetic synonym and definition
austere Adj relating to or having a strict and simple way of living that avoids physical pleasure
gloomy synonym and definition
austere Adj somewhat dark : not bright or sunny : causing feelings of sadness : not hopeful or promising : sad or depressed
gaudy antonym and definition
austere Adj too bright and heavily decorated : very large or impressive
harsh synonym and definition
austere Adj unpleasant and difficult to accept or experience : having an unpleasant or harmful effect because of great strength or force : too intense or powerful : severe or cruel : not kind
involved antonym and definition
austere Adj very complicated : having a part in something : included in something : actively participating in something
straitlaced synonym and definition
austere Adj very proper in manners, morals, or opinion
stern synonym and definition
austere Adj very serious especially in an unfriendly way : expressing strong disapproval or criticism : not likely to change or become weaker
solemn synonym and definition
austere Adj very serious or formal in manner, behavior, or expression : sad and serious : done or made sincerely
tolerant antonym and definition
austere Adj willing to accept feelings, habits, or beliefs that are different from your own : able to allow or accept something that is harmful, unpleasant, etc.
flamboyant antonym and definition
austere Adj : having a very noticeable quality that attracts a lot of attention
abstemious synonym and definition
austere Adj : not eating and drinking too much
puritanical synonym and definition
austere Adj : very strict especially concerning morals and religion
niggling synonym and definition
captious Adj causing you to feel a slight pain or to be worried or annoyed for a long time
hypercritical synonym and definition
captious Adj criticizing other people or things too strongly or too often
censorious synonym and definition
captious Adj having or showing a tendency to criticize someone or something severely : very critical
carping synonym and definition
captious Adj marked by or inclined to querulous and often perverse criticism
uncritical antonym and definition
captious Adj not expressing or willing to express appropriate criticism or disapproval : not critical
picayune synonym and definition
captious Adj something trivial
picky synonym and definition
captious Adj very careful or too careful about choosing or accepting things : hard to please
artful synonym and definition
captious Adj : good at getting or achieving things in ways that are clever and not noticeable : used to get or achieve things in ways that are clever and not noticeable
hairsplitting synonym and definition
captious Adj a person who argues about differences that are too small to be important
straight-forward antonym and definition
captious Adj easy to do or understand : not complicated : honest and open
laudatory antonym and definition
captious Adj expressing or containing praise
complimentary antonym and definition
captious Adj expressing praise or admiration for someone or something
nit-picking synonym and definition
captious Adj minute and usually unjustified criticism
undiscriminating antonym and definition
captious Adj not making a distinction
unexacting antonym and definition
captious Adj not requiring much time, attention, or effort from someone : very difficult or demanding
pettifogging synonym and definition
captious Adj placing undue emphasis on petty details
caviling synonym and definition
captious Adj to complain about things that are not important
tricky synonym and definition
captious Adj using or likely to use dishonest tricks
loaded synonym and definition
captious Adj weighted or biased toward a particular outcome.
parochial synonym and definition
catholic Adj confined or restricted as if within the borders of a parish : limited in range or scope (as to a narrow area or region) : provincial, narrow
wide synonym and definition
catholic Adj having great extent : vast
comprehensive synonym and definition
catholic Adj including many, most, or all things
ecumenical synonym and definition
catholic Adj involving people from different kinds of Christian churches
narrow synonym and definition
catholic Adj limited in size or scope
provincial synonym and definition
catholic Adj not knowing or caring about people and events in other places : having narrow or limited concerns or interests
global synonym and definition
catholic Adj involving the entire world
liberal synonym and definition
catholic Adj not opposed to new ideas or ways of behaving that are not traditional or widely accepted
cutting synonym and definition
caustic Adj : inclined or likely to wound the feelings of others especially because of a ruthless incisiveness
charitable antonym and definition
caustic Adj : showing kindness in talking about or judging other people : not very critical
trenchant synonym and definition
caustic Adj : vigorously effective and articulate ; also : caustic
pungent synonym and definition
caustic Adj a : marked by a sharp incisive quality : caustic b : being sharp and to the point
stinging synonym and definition
caustic Adj causing a quick, sharp pain
corrosive synonym and definition
caustic Adj causing someone or something to become weak and damaged
mordant synonym and definition
caustic Adj expressing harsh criticism especially in a way that is funny
amiable antonym and definition
caustic Adj friendly and pleasant
tart synonym and definition
caustic Adj having a sharp and unkind quality
honeyed antonym and definition
caustic Adj pleasingly sweet
bland antonym and definition
caustic Adj showing no emotion, concern, etc.
sardonic synonym and definition
caustic Adj showing that you disapprove of or do not like someone or something : showing disrespect or scorn for someone or something
sarcastic synonym and definition
caustic Adj using or showing sarcasm
astringent synonym and definition
caustic Adj very critical in a sharp and often clever way
sweet antonym and definition
caustic Adj very gentle, kind, or friendly
keen synonym and definition
caustic Adj a : having a fine edge or point : sharp b : affecting one as if by cutting
acrimonious synonym and definition
caustic Adj angry and bitter
venomous synonym and definition
caustic Adj expressing very strong hatred or anger
good-natured antonym and definition
caustic Adj friendly, pleasant, or cheerful
sugary antonym and definition
caustic Adj showing or expressing a pleasant emotion in a way that seems excessive and false : too sweet
acidulous synonym and definition
caustic Adj somewhat acid or harsh in taste or manner
saccharine antonym and definition
caustic Adj too sweet or sentimental : sweet or sentimental in a way that does not seem sincere or genuine
acrimony synonym and definition
caustic noun angry and bitter feelings
mild antonym and definition
caustic noun gentle in nature or behavior
asperity synonym and definition
caustic noun harshness of behavior or speech that expresses bitterness or anger
sarcasm synonym and definition
caustic noun the use of words that mean the opposite of what you really want to say especially in order to insult someone, to show irritation, or to be funny
unconvincing antonym and definition
cogent adj not able to make you believe that something is true, real, or acceptable : not convincing
untenable antonym and definition
cogent adj not capable of being defended against attack or criticism : not tenable
irrelevant antonym and definition
cogent adj not important or relating to what is being discussed right now : not relevant
ineffective antonym and definition
cogent adj not producing or having the effect you want : not effective
telling synonym and definition
cogent adj producing a strong or important effect
germane synonym and definition
cogent adj relating to a subject in an appropriate way
apposite synonym and definition
cogent adj very appropriate : suitable for the occasion or situation
inane antonym and definition
cogent adj very silly or stupid
potent synonym and definition
cogent adj : having or wielding force, authority, or influence :
collude synonym and definition
collaborate verb to work with others secretly especially in order to do something illegal or dishonest
work by oneself antonym and definition
collaborate verb to do something alone
intrigue synonym and definition
collaborate verb to make secret plans
cooperate synonym and definition
collaborate verb to work together : to work with another person or group to do something : to be helpful by doing what someone asks or tells you to do
congruous synonym and definition
compatible Adj being in agreement, harmony, or correspondence
harmonious synonym and definition
compatible Adj having parts that are related or combined in a pleasing way : not experiencing disagreement or fighting
like-minded synonym and definition
compatible Adj having similar opinions and interests
consistent synonym and definition
compatible Adj marked by harmony, regularity, or steady continuity : free from variation or contradiction
inconsistent antonym and definition
compatible Adj not always acting or behaving in the same way : not continuing to happen or develop in the same way : having parts that disagree with each other : not in agreement with something
agreeable synonym and definition
compatible Adj pleasing to the mind or senses : ready or willing to agree : willing to do or allow something : able to be accepted
incongruous antonym and definition
compatible Adj strange because of not agreeing with what is usual or expected
incompatible antonym and definition
compatible Adj not able to exist together without trouble or conflict : not going together well : not able to be used together
antagonistic antonym and definition
compatible Adj showing dislike or opposition : showing antagonism
parallel synonym and definition
compatible Adj very similar and often happening at the same time
discontented antonym and definition
complacent Adj not happy with your situation, position, etc. : not contented
contente(d) synonym and definition
complacent Adj pleased and satisfied : not needing more
self-content(ed) synonym and definition
complacent Adj self-satisfaction
malcontent antonym and definition
complacent Adj dissatisfied with the existing state of affairs : discontented
dissatisfied antonym and definition
complacent Adj not happy or pleased
stomach synonym and definition
condone verb to accept or experience (something unpleasant) without becoming sick, upset, etc
countenance synonym and definition
condone verb to accept, support, or approve of (something)
castigate antonym and definition
condone verb to criticize (someone) harshly
deprecate antonym and definition
condone verb to criticize or express disapproval of (someone or something)
ignore synonym and definition
condone verb to do nothing about or in response to (something or someone)
accept synonym and definition
condone verb to give admittance or approval to
denounce antonym and definition
condone verb to publicly state that someone or something is bad or wrong : to criticize (someone or something) harshly and publicly
condemn antonym and definition
condone verb to say in a strong and definite way that someone or something is bad or wrong : to give (someone) a usually severe punishment
decry antonym and definition
condone verb to say publicly and forcefully that you regard (something) as bad, wrong, etc.
tolerate synonym and definition
condone verb to allow (something that is bad, unpleasant, etc.) to exist, happen, or be done : to experience (something harmful or unpleasant) without being harmed
disapprove antonym and definition
condone verb to believe that someone or something is bad or wrong : to not approve of someone or something : to officially refuse to approve or accept (something)
revile antonym and definition
condone verb to speak about (someone or something) in a very critical or insulting way
masochistic definition and origin
enjoyment of pain : pleasure that someone gets from being abused or hurt; From Leopold von Sacher-Masoch
sadistic definition and origin
enjoyment that someone gets from being violent or cruel or from causing pain; From Marquis de Sade
sexist definition.
noun unfair treatment of people because of their sex; especially : unfair treatment of women
bipartisan definition
relating to or involving members of two political parties
Define talk back
reply defiantly or insolently.
herculean definition and origin
requiring great strength or effort. From the Greek hero Hercules, who accomplished many feats of strength.
bacchanalian definition and origin
riotous and drunken From the Roman god Bacchus, the god of wine, which can get people loud and unruly.
divers definition and root
several
shrapnel definition and origin
small metal pieces that scatter outwards from an exploding shell, bomb, or mine From Henry Shrapnel
contraband definition
smuggled goods
stopgap
someone or something that is intended to be used for a short time and then replaced by someone or something better : a temporary substitute
to put on airs
to pretend to be more important than you really are
advert definition and root
to refer to
Define to let the cat out of the bag
to reveal a secret or a surprise by accident.
Define to throw to the wolves
to sacrifice someone to save the rest; to abandon someone to harm. ( on the image of giving one person to the wolves to eat so the rest can get away.)
Definition of circumnavigate
to sail around (for example, the globe)
Definition of circumference.
(literally "a carrying around")-- the boundary of a circle
a grassroots movement definition.
(Shown: Grassroots definition) Noun and Adj the common or ordinary people, especially as contrasted with the leadership or elite of a political party, social organization, etc.; the rank and file. of, relating to, or involving the common people, especially as contrasted with or separable from an elite:
besmirch definition and prefix
(Use A) Be+smirch=besmirch "to soil thoroughly
bemoan definition and prefix
(Use B) Be+ moan= bemoan "to moan and groan about"
bewitch definition and prefix
(Use C) be+ witch= bewitch "to enchant"; bewitching "enchanting"; bewitched "enchanted"
ambition definition and prefix
(literally "a going around [to canvass for votes]") a strong desire to achieve some goal
Anthropologist definition
: A person who engages in the study of human races, origins, societies, and cultures
cataclysm definition and origin
: something that causes great destruction, violence, etc.
pedagogy definition and origin
: the art, science, or profession of teaching
despondent antonym and definition
blithe Adj very sad and without hope
Sociologist definition
A person who engages in the study of society, social institutions, and social relationships
openhanded antonym and definition
(the miserly side of avarice) Adj having or showing the quality of being very generous
Name the parts and define the word aristocracy
(aristos, [Greek] "best" + kratos, "rule")-- rule by the upper or privileged classes. Noun: aristocrat; Adj: aristocratic
to cop a plea definition
engage in plea bargaining.
Name the parts and define the word democracy
(demos, [Greek] "people" + kratos, "rule")-- rule by the people
Definition of circumstance
(literally "a standing around") A fact or condition that accompanies an event or has some bearing on it. The related adjective "circumstantial" means "relating to the circumstances involved" or, by extension, "incidential; nonessential"
vertigo definition and root
(literally "a turning around") a sensation of dizziness and a feeling that one is about to fall
ambient definition and prefix
(literally "going around") surrounding or encompassing
ambiguous definition and prefix
(literally "going in both directions at once") unclear or uncertain
amphibious definition and prefix
(literally "living both lives") able to live or operate on land and in the water
subvert definition and root
(literally "turn from under") to overthrow; to seek to undermine (for example, a government or institution). (Adj) subversive (noun) subversion
ambidextrous definition and prefix
(literally "with a right hand on both sides) able to use both hands equally well
Definition of circumscribe
(literally, "to write around") to encircle; to confine or restrict within limits.
Name the parts and define the word ochlocracy
(ochlos, [Greek] "mob" + kratos, "rule")-- mob rule
laconic definition and origin
(of a person, speech, or style of writing) using very few words. From Greek Lakōnikos, from Lakōn 'Laconia, Sparta,' the Spartans being known for their terse speech.
Name the parts and define the word plutocracy
(ploutos, [Greek] "wealth" + kratos, "rule")-- rule by the wealthy class of society. Noun: plutocrat; Adj: plutocratic
Name the parts and define the word thalassocracy
(thalassa, [Greek] "sea" + kratos, "rule")-- domination of the sea; naval supremacy. Noun: thalassocrat
generous antonym and definition
(the miserly side of avarice) Adj freely giving or sharing money and other valuable things : providing more than the amount that is needed or normal : abundant or ample : showing kindness and concern for others
liberal antonym and definition
(the miserly side of avarice) Adj a : marked by generosity : openhanded b : given or provided in a generous and openhanded way
generosity antonym and definition
(the miserly side of avarice) noun the quality of being kind, understanding, and not selfish : the quality of being generous; especially : willingness to give money and other valuable things to others
liberality antonym and definition
(the miserly side of avarice) noun the quality of not being opposed to ideas or ways of behaving that are not traditional or widely accepted : the quality of being generous
openhandedness antonym and definition
(the miserly side of avarice) noun the quality of having or showing the quality of being very generous
Name the parts and define the word theocracy
(theos, [Greek] "god" + kratos, "rule")-- a government controlled solely by the religious authorities. Adj: theocratic
arbitrary part of speech, definition, and related forms and phrases
-Adj -A: Subject to or determined by one's judgement; random B: Arrived at by an exercise of the will, personal preference, or whim, as opposed to being based on reason or justice. C: Given to willful decisions or demands; tyrannical or dictatorial. -(Adverb)arbitrarily (Noun)arbitrariness -A judgement call
ambivalent part of speech, definition, related form and related phrases
-Adj -wavering or uncertain because of an inability to make a choice between two contradictory feelings or viewpoints in regard to a person, a thing, or a course of action -(noun) ambivalence - Ambivalent emotions, an ambivalent position
askew part of speech, definition, and usage notes.
-Adj/adverb -A: (Adj+adverb) Out of line or position; turned to one side. B:(Adverb) Disapprovingly; scornfully -Usage Notes: A: Note the somewhat subtle difference in the use of askew and awry. Askew is usually reserved for concrete objects such as lampposts and hats. Awry, on the other hand, is generally used for more abstract things such as plans, arrangements or actions. B: Also note the distinction between askew and askance, meaning "sideways" or "Oblique(ly)." Askew usually implies simple disapproval or scorn. Askance (variant, askant), however, implies mistrust and suspicion as well as disapproval.
anachronism part of speech, definition, and related forms
-Noun - The misplacing of an object or even in a period to which it cannot possibly belong; anything out of its proper time frame. -(Adj) anachronistic
anathema part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
-Noun -A: a curse or strong denunciation B: The person or thing cursed; more generally, any object of intense dislike. -(verb) anathematize (Noun) anathematization Usage Note: When anathema occurs without modification after the verb 'to be' , it functions more as an adjective than as a noun. For that reason, it may properly be replaced by such adjectives as repugnant or abhorrent, rather than by the corresponding nouns (repugnance, abhorrence). If the sentence contains an indefinite article, one of the few nouns that can replace anathema in that situation would be the word abomination.
anarchy part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
-Noun -Absence of governmental authority; general political and social disorder -(noun) anarchism, anarchist Usage Note: Anarchism is a political doctrine that advocates the abolition of all forms of government as being oppressive and undesirable. The word is also used in an extended sense to indicate active resistance to the state, including terrorism and guerrilla warfare. An anarchist is a person who favors the ideas of anarchism or engages in activities aimed at the violent overthrow of an existing government.
Apathy part of speech, definition, and related forms
-Noun -Lack of feeling, emotion, or interest -(Adj)apathetic (Adverb)apathetically
ambience part of speech, definition, and related form
-Noun -The surrounding or pervading atmosphere; the tone and spirit of an environment. -(Adj) ambient
anecdote part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
-Noun -a brief account of some interesting or amusing incident, especially one containing biographical or historical details. -(Adj) anecdotal (Noun) anecdotist (anecdotalist?), anecdotage Usage Note: Anecdotal means "containing anecdotes."An anecdotist (anecdotalist?) is a person who tells anecdotes, especially as a hobby or profession. Anecdotage, a blend of anecdote and dotage, indicates the kind of old age that is accompanied by a tendency to ramble on endlessly about the past.
Anomaly part of speech, definition, related form, and related phrases
-Noun -a deviation from what is normal or expected -(Adj)anomalous -an anomalous situation, in an anomalous position, an anomaly in the world of politics
amnesty part of speech and definition
-Noun -an official pardon granted to offenders against the government, especially for political offenses.
assimilate part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases, and usage note.
-Verb -A: to absorb fully or make one's own; to adopt as one's own. B:To adapt fully or make like -(noun) assimilation -A process of naturalization; in the mainstream; a separatist movements, a standoffish attitude -Usage Note: The word assimilation is much used by sociologists to indicate the process by which individuals belonging to a minority group adopt the living habits and standard of the dominant group in the society. The process is called acculturation.
apprehend part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
-Verb -A: to arrest or take into custody B: to perceive or understand the meaning of C: To look forward to with fear or anxiety -(Nouns)apprehension, apprehensiveness (Adj)apprehensive (adverb)Apprehensively -Usage Note: A: The noun apprehension has several meanings:(1)anxiety about the future; (2)an arrest; (3)understanding. Apprehensiveness, on the other hand, indicates merely uneasiness about the future. B: Apprehensive means "fearful of what may be coming"
arbitrate part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases, and usage note.
-Verb -To act as an impartial judge in a dispute; to settle -(Nouns)Arbitration, arbitrament; arbitrator, arbiter (Adjs)arbitrational, arbitrable -Submit to arbitration, binding arbitration; and arbiter of taste,arbiter elegantiae (or elegantiarum) - An arbitrator (or arbiter) is the person who is chosen to settle a dispute. Arbitration is the process by which a settlement is reached. Arbitrament is the act of settling the dispute or the settlement that is finally made. Arbitrable means "open to arbitration".For example, if the president of an union says that certain demands are not arbitrable, he/she means that they are not negotiable. An arbiter elegantiae is a judge of what is tasteful and what isn't.
appall part of speech, definition, related form, related phrases and usage note
-Verb -To fill with intense horror, fear, or dismay -(Adj) appalling -an appalling sight, appalling disclosures -Usage Note: Appall, also spelled appal, implies a strong sense of helplessness in the face of something truly enormous or monstrous.
Alienate part of speech, definition, related forms, related phrases, and usage note
-Verb -to cause hostility or indifference where love, friendliness, or interest formerly existed -(Noun) alienation (Noun and Adj) alien (Adj) alienable, inalienable -Sever (or break off) relations with; the generation gap: catch someone's fancy, ingratiate oneself with Usage Note: Alienation denote a state of estrangement, disaffection, or isolation. In psychology, the word is used in a special sense to indicate a state of estrangement between a person and the outside world or between the different part of the personality.
allege part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
-Verb -to claim that something is true bit without offering any proof -(Noun) allegation (Adj) Alleged Usage Note: The use of the word allege often implies that there is some doubt about the truth of a statement. At other times, the word allege is used because the speaker wished to disclaim all responsibility for the truth of whatever follows.
allude part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
-Verb -to refer to indirectly -(Noun) allusion (Adj) allusive Usage Note: Take care not to confuse the following words: -Allude (refer indirectly to) and elude (evade, escape) -Allusion (an indirect reference) and illusion (a false perception or impression) -Allusive (containing allusions; suggestive) and illusory (tending to deceive) or elusive (difficult of grasp or find)
articulate part of speech, definition, and related forms
-Verb/Adj -A:(Verb) To pronounce distinctly; to express well in words B:(Adj) Expressed clearly and forcefully; able to employ language easily and fluently -(Nouns)articulation, articulatness
array part of speech, definition, and usage note.
-Verb/Noun -A: (Verb) To line up; to dress up. B: (Noun) An imposing grouping; rich and beautiful attire -Usage Note: Originally array meant "to ready for battle," though the word is rarely used in this sense today. Nonetheless, something of this association with the military still clings to the words more modern usages.
Define pacification
1 a : the act or process of pacifying : the state of being pacified b : the act of forcibly suppressing or eliminating a population considered to be hostile 2 : a treaty of peace
Define pacifist
1. a person who believes in pacifism or is opposed to war or to violence of any kind. 2. a person whose personal belief in pacifism causes him or her to refuse being drafted into military service.
Define maneuvers
1. a planned and regulated movement or evolution of troops, warships, etc. 2. maneuvers, a series of tactical exercises usually carried out in the field by large bodies of troops in simulating the conditions of war.
Define a kangaroo court
1. a self-appointed or mob-operated tribunal that disregards or parodies existing principles of law or human rights, especially one in a frontier area or among criminals in prison. 2. any crudely or irregularly operated court, especially one so controlled as to render a fair trial impossible.
Define ordnance
1. cannon or artillery. 2. military weapons with their equipment, ammunition, etc. 3. the branch of an army that procures, stores, and issues, weapons, munitions, and combat vehicles and maintains arsenals for their development and testing.
What is martial law and when is it imposed?
1. the law temporarily imposed upon an area by state or national military forces when civil authority has broken down or during wartime military operations. 2. the law imposed upon a defeated country or occupied territory by the military forces of the occupying power.
Define mobilization
1. to assemble or marshal (armed forces, military reserves, or civilian persons of military age) into readiness for active service. 2. to organize or adapt (industries, transportation facilities, etc.) for service to the government in time of war.
Define a dark-horse candidate
1. One who achieves unexpected support and success as a political candidate, typically during a party's convention.
a devil's advocate
1. a person who advocates an opposing or unpopular cause for the sake of argument or to expose it to a thorough examination. 2. Also called promoter of the faith. Roman Catholic Church. an official appointed to present arguments against a proposed beatification or canonization of a beatus.
define apprentice
1.a person who is learning a trade from a skilled employer, having agreed to work for a fixed period at low wages.
chortle definition and elements that went into it
1: (verb) laugh in a breathy, gleeful way; chuckle. 2: (noun) a breathy, gleeful laugh Chuckle/snort
Define rap
1: a sharp blow or knock 2a : a sharp rebuke or criticism b : a negative and often undeserved reputation or charge —often used with bum or bad
Stating the case: Define avouch
1: to declare as a matter of fact or as a thing that can be proved : affirm 2: to vouch for : corroborate
Define hostilities
4. hostilities. acts of warfare. war1.
oligarchy definition
: a country, business, etc., that is controlled by a small group of people : the people that control a country, business, etc. : government or control by a small group of people
Pediatrician definition
: a doctor who treats babies and children
dynasty definition and origin
: a family of rulers who rule over a country for a long period of time; also : the period of time when a particular dynasty is in power : a family, team, etc., that is very powerful or successful for a long period of time
theocracy definition
: a form of government in which a country is ruled by religious leaders : a country that is ruled by religious leaders
democracy definition
: a form of government in which people choose leaders by voting : a country ruled by democracy : an organization or situation in which everyone is treated equally and has equal rights
petit jury definition
: a jury of 12 persons impaneled to try and to decide finally upon the facts at issue in causes for trial in a court
define varnish
: a liquid that is spread on a surface and that dries to form a hard, shiny coating : the hard, shiny coating that is produced by varnish
Spin doctor definition
: a person (such as a political aide) whose job involves trying to control the way something (such as an important event) is described to the public in order to influence what people think about it
paragon definition and origin
: a person or thing that is perfect or excellent in some way and should be considered a model or example to be copied
Therapist definition
: a person trained in methods of treating illnesses especially without the use of drugs or surgery : a person who helps people deal with mental or emotional problems by talking about those problems : a person trained in psychotherapy
Programmer definition
: a person who creates computer programs
neophyte definition and origin
: a person who has just started learning or doing something : a person who has recently joined a religious group
Comptroller definition
: a person who is in charge of the financial accounts of a company or organization
Veterinarian definition
: a person who is trained to give medical care and treatment to animals : an animal doctor
Conjurer definition
: a person who performs magic tricks
Environmentalist definition
: a person who works to protect the natural world from pollution and other threats
Optometrist definition
: a person whose job is to examine people's eyes to find out if they need eyeglasses or medical treatment
define leadership
: a position as a leader of a group, organization, etc. : the time when a person holds the position of leader : the power or ability to lead other people
define donnybrook
: a public argument : an uncontrolled fight
checks and balances definition
: a system that allows each branch of a government to amend or veto acts of another branch so as to prevent any one branch from exerting too much power
stratagem definition and origin
: a trick or plan for deceiving an enemy or for achieving a goal
What is a colloquium?
: a usually academic meeting at which specialists deliver addresses on a topic or on related topics and then answer questions relating to them
fascism definition
: a way of organizing a society in which a government ruled by a dictator controls the lives of the people and in which people are not allowed to disagree with the government : very harsh control or authority
socialism definition
: a way of organizing a society in which major industries are owned and controlled by the government rather than by individual people and companies
communism definition
: a way of organizing a society in which the government owns the things that are used to make and transport products (such as land, oil, factories, ships, etc.) and there is no privately owned property
orthodox definition and origin
: accepted as true or correct by most people : supporting or believing what most people think is true : accepting and closely following the traditional beliefs and customs of a religion
dynamic definition and origin
: always active or changing : having or showing a lot of energy : of or relating to energy, motion, or physical force
monopoly definition and origin
: complete control of the entire supply of goods or of a service in a certain area or market : a large company that has a monopoly : complete ownership or control of something
didactic definition and origin
: designed or intended to teach people something —used to describe someone or something that tries to teach something (such as proper or moral behavior) in a way that is annoying or unwanted
define tawdry
: having a cheap and ugly appearance : morally low or bad
pedantic definition and origin
: of, relating to, or being a pedant( a person who annoys other people by correcting small errors and giving too much attention to minor details) 2 : narrowly, stodgily, and often ostentatiously learned
archaic definition and origin
: old and no longer used : old and no longer useful : of or relating to ancient times
define sardonic
: showing that you disapprove of or do not like someone or something : showing disrespect or scorn for someone or something
panegyric definition and origin
: something (such as a speech or a piece of writing) that praises someone or something
What is nihilism?
: the belief that traditional morals, ideas, beliefs, etc., have no worth or value : the belief that a society's political and social institutions are so bad that they should be destroyed
What is meant by sedition?
: the crime of saying, writing, or doing something that encourages people to disobey their government
separation of powers definition
: the doctrine under which the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government are not to infringe upon each other's constitutionally vested powers
quorum
: the smallest number of people who must be present at a meeting in order for decisions to be made
What is a dialogue?
: the things that are said by the characters in a story, movie, play, etc. : a discussion or series of discussions that two groups or countries have in order to end a disagreement : a conversation between two or more people
sophistry definition and origin
: the use of reasoning or arguments that sound correct but are actually false : a reason or argument that sounds correct but is actually false
Stating the case: Define asseverate
: to affirm or declare positively or earnestly
Define clam up
: to become silent
Stating the case: Define avow
: to declare or state (something) in an open and public way
Stating the case: Define imply
: to express (something) in an indirect way : to suggest (something) without saying or showing it plainly : to include or involve (something) as a natural or necessary part or result
Stating the case: Define enunciate
: to make a clear statement of (ideas, beliefs, etc.) : to pronounce words or parts of words clearly
Stating the case: Define aver
: to say (something) in a very strong and definite way
Stating the case: Define declaim
: to say (something) in usually a loud and formal way
Stating the case: Define insinuate
: to say (something, especially something bad or insulting) in an indirect way : to gradually make (yourself) a part of a group, a person's life, etc., often by behaving in a dishonest way
Define badmouth
: to say bad things about (someone or something) : to criticize (someone or something)
Stating the case: Define intimate
: to say or suggest (something) in an indirect way
Stating the case: Define expatiate
: to speak or write about something in a way that includes a lot of details or uses many words
Stating the case: Define assert
: to state (something) in a strong and definite way : to demand that other people accept or respect (something)
Define gab
: to talk a lot in an informal way usually about things that are not important or serious
Stating the case: Define cite
: to write or say the words of (a book, author, etc.) : to mention (something) especially as an example or to support an idea or opinion law : to order (someone) to appear before a court of law
cacophony definition and origin
: unpleasant loud sounds
writ of mandamus definition
A (writ of) mandamus is an order from a court to an inferior government official ordering the government official to properly fulfill their official duties or correct an abuse of discretion.
define blue-collar worker
A blue collar is a working-class person historically defined by hourly rates of pay and manual labor.
change of venue definition
A change of venue is the legal term for moving a trial to a new location.
Define a wild goose chase
A futile search or pursuit,
What was an augur in ancient Rome?
A group of priests who sought to discover, by observing certain signs, whether or not the gods approved of a proposed policy or action. The sign most often used for this purpose was the flight of birds, although the augurs also depended on such phenomena as lightning, comets, and the appearance of the entrails of animals. The "taking of the auguries" preceded every important public action, as especially in the early days of Rome, was widely used by private individuals.
Who is a humbug?
A humbug is a self-important fraud.
hung jury definition
A jury that is unable to reach a verdict of guilty or not guilty. The result is a mistrial, and legal proceedings must be reinitiated to bring the case to trial again. Trying the case a second time does not constitute double jeopardy.
Define chef d'oeuvre
A masterpiece
Define amphibious operation
A military operation launched from the sea by an amphibious force, embarked in ships or craft with the primary purpose of introducing a landing force ashore to accomplish the assigned mission. See also amphibious force; landing force; mission; operation.
Who is a mountebank and by extension, what/who does this word apply to?
A mountebank (Literally, a person who "climbs on a bench") is a charlatan who uses clownish or flamboyant techniques to sell his/her wares. BY extension, the word is applied to any boastful or unscrupulous salesman.
party platform definition
A party platform refers to a political party's formal statement of its basic principles, objectives, and positions on major issues.
accessory before the fact definition
A person who aids, abets, or encourages another to commit a crime but who is not present at the scene. An accessory before the fact, like an accomplice, may be held criminally liable to the same extent as the principal. Many jurisdictions refer to an accessory before the fact as an accomplice.
Podiatrist definition
A person who engages in the medical care and treatment of the human foot
advance synonym and definition
Abet verb : to move forward : to move (someone or something) forward : to go forward : to make progress : to continue in a process of development, aging, etc
restrain antonym and definition
Abet verb : to prevent (a person or animal) from doing something : to prevent (a person or animal) from moving by using physical force : to keep (something) under control
aid synonym and definition
Abet verb : to provide what is useful or necessary
deter antonym and definition
Abet verb to make (someone) less determined, hopeful, or confident : to make (something) less likely to happen : to try to make people not want to do (something)
discourage antonym and definition
Abet verb to make (someone) less determined, hopeful, or confident : to make (something) less likely to happen : to try to make people not want to do (something)
What is the difference between abrogate and arrogate?
Abrogate means 'to repeal, annul or cancel' and is used with reference to laws, treaties, and other formal agreements. Arrogate means 'to lay claim to without justification'
condemnation antonym and definition
Absolve noun a statement or expression of very strong and definite criticism or disapproval
vindication synonym and definition
Absolve noun an act of showing that (someone) should not be blamed for a crime, mistake, etc. : the act of showing that (someone) is not guilty : the act of showing that (someone or something that has been criticized or doubted) is correct, true, or reasonable) justification against denial or censure.
indictment antonym and definition
Absolve noun law : an official written statement charging a person with a crime : the act of officially charging someone with a crime : the act of indicting someone : an expression or statement of strong disapproval
acquittal synonym and definition
Absolve noun the act of deciding that a person is not guilty of a crime : the act of acquitting someone
conviction antonym and definition
Absolve noun the act of proving that a person is guilty of a crime in a court of law
exoneration synonym and definition
Absolve noun to act of proving that someone is not guilty of a crime or responsible for a problem, bad situation, etc.
incriminate antonym and definition
Absolve verb to cause (someone) to appear guilty of or responsible for something (such as a crime)
condemn antonym and definition
Absolve verb to say in a strong and definite way that someone or something is bad or wrong : to give (someone) a usually severe punishment : to cause (someone) to suffer or live in difficult or unpleasant conditions
vindicate synonym and definition
Absolve verb to show that (someone) should not be blamed for a crime, mistake, etc. : to show that (someone) is not guilty : to show that (someone or something that has been criticized or doubted) is correct, true, or reasonable
impeach antonym and definition
Absolve verb : to charge (a public official) with a crime done while in office : to cause doubts about the truthfulness of (a witness, testimony, etc.)
convict antonym and definition
Absolve verb : to find or prove to be guilty 2 : to convince of error or sinfulness
inculpate antonym and definition
Absolve verb incriminate; to cause (someone) to appear guilty of or responsible for something (such as a crime)
indict antonym and definition
Absolve verb law : to formally decide that someone should be put on trial for a crime
acquit synonym and definition
Absolve verb to decide that someone is not guilty of a crime
exonerate synonym and definition
Absolve verb to prove that someone is not guilty of a crime or responsible for a problem, bad situation, etc.
exculpate synonym and definition
Absolve verb to prove that someone is not guilty of doing something wrong
self-restraint synonym and definition
Abstain (restraint, noun; : a way of limiting, controlling, or stopping something : a device that limits a person's movement : control over your emotions or behavior)
forbearing synonym and definition
Abstain adj (of a person) patient and restrained
moderate synonym and definition
Abstain adj : average in size or amount : neither too much nor too little : neither very good nor very bad
intemperate antonym and definition
Abstain adj : having extreme conditions : having or showing a lack of emotional calmness or control : often drinking too much alcohol
temperate synonym and definition
Abstain adj : marked by moderation: as a : keeping or held within limits : not extreme or excessive : mild b : moderate in indulgence of appetite or desire c : moderate in the use of alcoholic beverages d : marked by an absence or avoidance of extravagance, violence, or extreme partisanship
ascetic synonym and definition
Abstain adj : relating to or having a strict and simple way of living that avoids physical pleasure
immoderate antonym and definition
Abstain adj going beyond reasonable limits : not moderate
abstemious synonym and definition
Abstain adj not eating and drinking too much
sparing synonym and definition
Abstain adj not using or giving a lot of something
self-denial synonym and definition
Abstain noun the act of not allowing yourself to have or do something you want
self-indulgent antonym and definition
Abstain noun : excessive or unrestrained gratification of one's own appetites, desires, or whims
indulgence antonym and definition
Abstain noun : the behavior or attitude of people who allow themselves to do what they want or who allow other people to do what they want : the act of doing something that you enjoy but that is usually thought of as wrong or unhealthy : something that is done or enjoyed as a special pleasure
forbearance synonym and definition
Abstain noun a refraining from the enforcement of something (as a debt, right, or obligation) that is due 2 : the act of forbearing : patience 3 : the quality of being forbearing : leniency
abstemiousness synonym and definition
Abstain noun the act of not eating and drinking too much
indulge antonym and definition
Abstain transitive verb a : to give free rein to b : to take unrestrained pleasure in : gratify a : to yield to the desire of : humor
shun synonym and definition
Abstain transitive verb to avoid (someone or something)
forbear synonym and definition
Abstain verb to choose not to do (something that you could do) : to avoid doing or saying (something)
partake antonym and definition
Abstain verb : to have a share or part of something along with others : to join with others in doing something : to take part in something
avoid synonym and definition
Abstain verb : to stay away from (someone or something) : to prevent the occurrence of (something bad, unpleasant, etc.) : to keep yourself from doing (something) or participating in (something)
eschew synonym and definition
Abstain verb to avoid (something) especially because you do not think it is right, proper, etc.
forgo synonym and definition
Abstain verb to give up the use or enjoyment of (something)
Abstain synonym usage note A
Abstemious, forbearing, temperate, and sparing all indicate moderation in indulging one's appetites. Abstinent, on the other hand, indicates a total avoidance of the thing in question.
a liberal definition.
Adj believing that government should be active in supporting social and political change : relating to or supporting political liberalism : not opposed to new ideas or ways of behaving that are not traditional or widely accepted
persona non grata part of speech and definition.
Adj "unacceptable person" personally unacceptable or unwelcome
a conservative definition.
Adj : believing in the value of established and traditional practices in politics and society : relating to or supporting political conservatism Conservative : of or relating to the conservative party in countries like the United Kingdom and Canada : not liking or accepting changes or new ideas
caustic part of speech, definition, phrases and related forms.
Adj A: Able to dissolve or eat away by chemical action B: Sharp and biting Phrases: a caustic substance, a caustic agent, a caustic reply Related formed: (noun) causticity; (adverb) Caustically
candid part of speech, definition, and related phrases and forms
Adj A: Fair and impartial B: Frank or outspoken C: Informal or unposed a candid opinion, a candid interview, a candid critic (nouns) candor, candidness; (adverb) candidly
benign part of speech, definition, related forms and usage note
Adj A: Gentle and kindly B: Wholesome or favorable (noun) benignity (Adj) Benignant (Adverb) benignly Usage Note: In medicine, benign means "not a threat to a person's health or life". Its opposite is malignant.
captious part of speech, definition, and related phrases and forms.
Adj A: Quick to find petty faults or raise trifling objections; overly demanding or fussy. B: Intended to trap, confuse or show up a captious critic (noun) captiousness; (Adverb) captiously
catholic part of speech, related form and usage note.
Adj A: broad or widely inclusive B: General or universal; worldwide (noun) catholicity Usage Note: Be sure to distinguish carefully between "catholic" (with a c) and "Catholic" (with a C). The word with the capital letter is a proper adjective that refers to the ancient universal (that is, undivided) Christian church or to its present-day representatives. Frequently, of course, "Catholic" is used as an abbreviation for "Roman Catholic"-- that is, in reference to the Church of Rome, its beliefs and practice, or its members.
compatible part of speech, definition, related forms, and related phrases
Adj A: capable of use with some other brand or model B: Capable of living or getting along together. (noun) compatibility, compatibleness (adverb) compatibly in sync, in keeping with, in line with.
bleak part of speech, definition, and related form
Adj A: desolate, windswept, and bare B: Cold and gloomy, unpromising Related Form: bleakness
blithe part of speech, definition, and related forms
Adj A: merry and carefree B: overly unconcerned; reckless Forms: (noun) blitheness (adverb) blithely
bland part of speech, definition and related forms and phrases
Adj A: mild or gentle. (when used in this sense, the word is usually neutral in tone) B: lacking interest or liveliness; flat (When used in this sense the word is distinctly pejorative- expressing contempt or disapproval) (noun) blandness (adverb) blandly bland food, a bland personality, a bland smile, a bland style
circumspect part of speech, definition, phrases, and related forms.
Adj Cautious or prudent, especially in regard to the consequences of actions or statements; tactful Phrases: a circumspect investor, circumspect behavior Related forms: (noun) circumspection (adverb) circumspectly
clandestine part of speech, definition, related forms, phrases, and related phrases.
Adj Concealed from view so as to hide one's purpose Related forms: (noun clandestineness; (adverb) clandestinely Phrases: a clandestine meeting, clandestine broadcasts, clandestine activities. Related phrases: deep cover, behind closed doors, cloak-and-dagger, an undercover agent
a reactionary definition.
Adj relating to, marked by, or favoring reaction; especially : ultraconservative in politics
Chronic part of speech, definition, phrases, related forms, and related phrases
Adj Continuing over a long period of time or recurring often. Phrases: Chronic insomnia, chronic attacks of asthma, chronic financial problems, chronic unemployment,a chronic complainer Related form: (adverb) Chronically Related Phrases: a hardened criminal, a lingering illness, a confirmed bachelor, sporadic fighting.
affable part of speech, definition, related form
Adj Courteous and agreeable in manner; easy to talk to or approach. (adverb) affably; (nouns) affableness, affability
avid part of speech, definition, and related forms and phrases
Adj Extremely eager, anxious, or enthusiastic (noun) avidity (adverb) avidly an avid sportsman, an avid moviegoer, avid for adventure
cantankerous part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note.
Adj Foul-tempered and quarrelsome (noun) cantankerousness; (adverb) cantankerously Usage Note: Though "cantankerous" is normally used of people who are determined to be nasty or disagreeable, the word may also be applied to animals or things. In that case, it means "irritating or difficult to deal with."
circuitous part of speech, definition, phrases, related forms and related phrases.
Adj Indirect or roundabout; long-winded Phrases: Circuitous logic or reasoning, circuitous procedures Related Forms: (noun) circuitousness, circuit Related Phrases: veer off at a tangent, sidetrack a discussion, beat around the bush; as the crow flies.
astute part of speech, definition and related forms and phrases.
Adj Keen of mind and judgement, especially in practical matters (noun) astuteness (adverb) astutely An astute analysis, an astute criticism, astute advertising
brash part of speech, definition, and related forms and phrases
Adj Overly bold, hasty, and thoughtless Form: (noun) brashness Phrases: a brash comedian, brash behavior
brusque part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases and usage notes.
Adj Overly short or abrupt Form: (noun) brusqueness Phrases: a brusque reply, a brusque tone, a brusque manner Usage Note A: Brusque is also spelled brusk, which also applies to brusqueness as well. Usage Note B: Do not confuse brusque with brisk (lively or energetic)
aesthetic part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note,
Adj Pertaining to a sense of beauty; artistic (adverb) aesthetically, (nouns) aesthete, aesthetics A: Aesthetic is sometimes spelled esthetic. do not confuse with ascetic. B: An aesthete is a person who is sensitive to, or has a love of, the beautiful in art or nature. However, the term is often used with an unfavorable tone to indicate someone who makes overmuch of his/her sensitivity to beauty. C: Aesthetics is a branch of philosophy dealing with theories and principles of beauty in art and literature.
affluent part of speech, definition, related form/phrase
Adj Prosperous, wealthy (noun) affluence, (adverb) affluently living high off the hog, as rich as Croesus, to serve Mammon, well-heeled
austere part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases.
Adj Rigidly severe; severely simple or bare (nouns) austereness, austerity, austerities (adverb) austerely austere surroundings, an austere manner, an austere diet, a life of austerity, the austerities imposed by want.
boorish part of speech, defintition, related forms, and usage notes
Adj Rude or unrefined Forms: (nouns) boor, boorishness Usage Note A: Do not confuse a boor (a rude or unrefined person) with a bore(a dull or tedious person). Remember that bore is related to boring and boredom. Usage Note B: Also keep boor separate from the proper noun Boer. The Boers were South Africans of Dutch descent who engaged in an unsuccessful war with Great Britain from 1899-1902. Their descendants are the current Afrikaners.
concise part of speech, definition, phrases, and related forms.
Adj Saying a lot in a few words a concise account, a concise statement (noun) conciseness, concision; (adverb) concisely
agile part of speech, definition, related form/phrase
Adj Swift and light in action, movement, or thought (noun) agility to limber up one's muscles, to look chipper
bizarre part of speech, definition and related form
Adj Weird or fantastic (noun) bizarreness
passionate synonym and definition
Adj avid having, showing, or expressing strong emotions or beliefs
cogent part of speech, definition, phrases, and related forms
Adj forceful and convincing; to the point a cogent argument, a cogent criticism, a cogent account, a cogent description, a cogent analysis, at her most cogent and compelling. (noun) cogency (adverb) cogently
permissiveness definition.
Adj giving people a lot of freedom or too much freedom to do what they want to do
banal part of speech, definition, related forms and usage note
Adj made stale by constant use or repetition (noun) banality (Adverb) banally Usage Note: Do not confuse banal with baneful, which means "harmful" or "destructive"
boisterous part of speech, definition, and related forms and phrases
Adj noisy and rowdy Forms: (noun) boisterousness; (adverb) boisterously Phrases: boisterous students, boisterous laughter.
schlock definition.
Adj of low quality or value
complacent part of speech, definition, related forms, phrases, usage note, and related phrases.
Adj overly self-satisfied; smug (noun) complacence, complacency (Adverb) complacently a complacent attitude, a complacent look Usage note: Do not confuse the adjective complacent, meaning "elf-satisfied," with the related adjective complaisant, meaning "eager to please" or "cheerfully obliging." to rest on one's laurels, pleased with oneself; displeased with oneself
bombastic part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
Adj pompous or inflated in language Form: (noun) bombast Usage Note: Bombast indicates overly padded and pretentious language. Fustian applies to inflated language that is absurdly out of keeping with its quite ordinary content. Rant (also a verb) emphasizes the expression of strong emotions together with extravagance of language and violence of delivery. Claptrap is pretentious, insincere, or empty language designed to attract applause.
callous part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note.
Adj unfeeling or insensitive (noun) callousness (adverb) callously Usage Note: Do not confuse the adjective "callous" with either the noun "callus", meaning a hardened or thickened part of the skin, or the adjective "callow", meaning "untried or inexperienced"
belligerent part of speech, definition, related forms and usage note
Adj and noun A: (Adj) Warring, actually engaged in a war; warlike or hostile B: (Noun) A party (Ex: a nation or organization) engaged in a war (nouns) Belligerence, belligerency (Adverb) belligerently Usage Note: Though belligerent and bellicose are often used interchangeably, they are really quite different. Both words, of course, mean "warlike or hostile," but only belligerent also means "warring" or "actually engaged in a war." In addition, bellicose tends to be used of a natural or inborn inclination towards aggressiveness, whereas belligerent tends to be reserved for a hostile attitude that is not innate but, rather, the result of some quite specific external cause.
postpone synonym and definition
Adjourn to decide that something which had been planned for a particular time will be done at a later time instead
defer synonym and definition
Adjourn : put off, delay 2 : to postpone induction of (a person)into military service
suspend synonym and definition
Adjourn : to force (someone) to leave a job, position, or place for a usually short period of time as a form of punishment : to stop (something) for a usually short period of time : to make (something) happen later : to delay (something)
terminate synonym and definition
Adjourn Verb coming to an end or capable of ending
transfer synonym and definition
Adjourn Verb : to convey from one person, place, or situation to another : move, shift : to cause to pass from one to another : transmit : transform, change : to make over the possession or control of : convey
Conclude synonym and definition
Adjourn, Verb : to stop or finish : to come to an end : to end in a particular way or with a particular action: to cause (something) to stop or finish : to end (something) in a particular way or with a particular action: to form or state (an opinion) : to decide (something) after a period of thought or research
de jure part of speech and definition.
Adverb/Adj : by right : of right : based on laws or actions of the state
antipathetic synonym and definition
Adverse Adj : having a natural aversion; also : not sympathetic : hostile : arousing antipathy
inimical synonym and definition
Adverse Adj : likely to cause damage or have a bad effect : not friendly
unfavorable synonym and definition
Adverse Adj : likely to cause problems or difficulties : expressing disapproval
propitious antonym and definition
Adverse Adj : likely to have or produce good results
unfriendly synonym and definition
Adverse Adj : not kind or helpful : not showing kind or friendly feelings : harmful or unpleasant
favorable antonym and definition
Adverse Adj : showing approval : expressing approval : giving or providing what is desired : giving a result that helps, benefits, or shows approval of someone
friendly antonym and definition
Adverse Adj acting like a friend : kind and helpful : having or showing the feelings that friends have for each other : showing support or approval
negative synonym and definition
Adverse Adj harmful or bad : not wanted : thinking about the bad qualities of someone or something : thinking that a bad result will happen : not hopeful or optimistic : expressing dislike or disapproval
antagonistic synonym and definition
Adverse Adj showing dislike or opposition : showing antagonism
What is the difference between affect and effect?
Affect is usually a verb, and effect is usually a noun. To affect something is to change or influence it, and an effect is something that happens due to a cause.
disaffect synonym and definition
Alienate verb : to alienate the affection or loyalty of; also : to fill with discontent and unrest
captivate antonym and definition
Alienate verb : to attract and hold the attention of (someone) by being interesting, pretty, etc.
befriend antonym and definition
Alienate verb : to become or act as a friend to
Antagonize synonym and definition
Alienate verb : to cause (someone) to feel hostile or angry : to irritate or upset (someone)
estrange synonym and definition
Alienate verb : to cause someone to be no longer friendly or close to another person or group : to cause someone to be no longer involved or connected with something
Consumer advocate definition
Also called consumerist. a person who is dedicated to protecting and promoting the welfare and rights of consumers.
Who is an imposter?
An imposter is simply someone who assumes another person's identity for the purposes of fraud or deception.
cheer antonym and definition
Appall Verb : to shout with joy, approval, or enthusiasm : to express enthusiastic approval of or support for (something) : to cause (someone) to feel happier or more hopeful
stun synonym and definition
Appall Verb : to surprise or upset (someone) very much : to cause (someone) to suddenly become very confused, very dizzy, or unconscious
discernment synonym and definition
Apprehend Noun : the ability to see and understand people, things, or stituations clearly and intelligently
discern synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb 1 a : to detect with the eyes b : to detect with senses other than vision 2 : to recognize or identify as separate and distinct : discriminate
capture synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : the act of taking and holding someone as a prisoner or of being taken as a prisoner : the act of getting control of something : the act of putting information in a form that a computer can use or read
fear synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to be afraid of (something or someone) : to expect or worry about (something bad or unpleasant) : to be afraid and worried
nab synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to catch and stop or arrest (someone) : to take or get (something) quickly and often in a way that is clever or rude
collar synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to catch or arrest (someone) : to stop (someone) in order to talk : to force (someone) to have a conversation
dread synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to fear something that will or might happen
grasp synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to take and hold (something) with your fingers, hands, etc. : to understand (something that is complicated or difficult)
comprehend synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to understand (something, such as a difficult or complex subject)
fathom synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to understand the reason for (something)
seize synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb : to use legal or official power to take (something) : to get or take (something) in a forceful, sudden, or violent way : to attack and take control of (a place) by force or violence
have misgivings about synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb If you have misgivings about something, it means you're worried that it's not a good idea.
anticipate the worst synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb To expect the worst
have a foreboding of synonym and definition
Apprehend Verb To have a inward conviction of some coming ill or misfortune
unreasonable synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj sensible, or appropriate : not reasonable
autocratic synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj 1 : of, relating to, or being an autocracy : absolute 2 : characteristic of or resembling an autocrat : despotic
just antonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : agreeing with what is considered morally right or good : treating people in a way that is considered morally right : reasonable or proper
fair antonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : agreeing with what is thought to be right or acceptable : treating people in a way that does not favor some over others : not too harsh or critical
discretionary synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : available to be used when and how you decide : done or used when necessary
objective antonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : based on facts rather than feelings or opinions : not influenced by feelings
capricious synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : changing often and quickly; especially : often changing suddenly in mood or behavior : not logical or reasonable : based on an idea, desire, etc., that is not possible to predict
authoritarian synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : expecting or requiring people to obey rules or laws : not allowing personal freedom
prejudiced synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : having or showing an unfair feeling of dislike for a person or group because of race, sex, religion, etc. : having a feeling or like or dislike for something or someone
equitable antonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : just or fair : dealing fairly and equally with everyone
partial synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : not complete or total : tending to treat one person, group, or thing better than another
high-handed synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : not having or showing any interest in the rights, opinions, or feelings of other people
irrational synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : not thinking clearly : not able to use reason or good judgment : not based on reason, good judgment, or clear thinking
despotic synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : of, relating to, or characteristic of a despot
overbearing synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : often trying to control the behavior of other people in an annoying or unwanted way
judgmental synonym and definition
Arbitrary Adj : tending to judge people too quickly and critically : of, relating to, or involving judgment
meditate synonym and definition
Arbitrate Verb : to engage in contemplation or reflection
adjudicate synonym and definition
Arbitrate Verb : to make an official decision about who is right in a dispute
finery synonym and definition
Array Noun : clothes, jewels, etc., that are expensive and beautiful
degeneration synonym and definition
Atrophy Noun a lowering of effective power, vitality, or essential quality to an enfeebled and worsened kind or state
deterioration synonym and definition
Atrophy Noun the act or process of becoming worse
development antonym and definition
Atrophy noun : the act or process of growing or causing something to grow or become larger or more advanced : the act or process of creating something over a period of time : the state of being created or made more advanced
growth antonym and definition
Atrophy noun the act of becoming larger, or to become better
maturation antonym and definition
Atrophy noun the process of becoming mature : the process of developing in the body or mind : the process of developing to a desired level
mature antonym and definition
Atrophy verb having or showing the mental and emotional qualities of an adult : having a fully grown or developed body : grown to full size : having reached a final or desired state (of an organism) become physically mature. (of a person) reach an advanced stage of mental or emotional development.
prosper antonym and definition
Atrophy verb to become very successful usually by making a lot of money : to become very active, healthy, or strong
deteriorate synonym and definition
Atrophy verb to become worse as time passes : to make (something) worse
develop antonym and definition
Atrophy verb to cause (something) to grow or become bigger or more advanced : to grow or become bigger or more advanced : to create (something) over a period of time
flourish antonym and definition
Atrophy verb to grow well : to be healthy : to be very successful : to do very well
wither synonym and definition
Atrophy verb to lose vitality, force, or freshness
rot synonym and definition
Atrophy verb to slowly decay or cause (something) to decay
shrivel synonym and definition
Atrophy verb : to become dry and wrinkled from heat, cold, or old age : to cause (something) to become dry and wrinkled
decay synonym and definition
Atrophy verb : to slowly lose strength, health, etc. of
degenerate synonym and definition
Atrophy verb decline or deteriorate physically, mentally, or morally.
grow antonym and definition
Atrophy verb to become larger : to increase in size, amount, etc. : to become better or improved in some way : to become more developed, mature, etc.
shrink synonym and definition
Atrophy verb to become smaller in amount, size, or value : to make (something) smaller in amount, size, or value : to quickly move away from something shocking, frightening, or disgusting
stunt synonym and definition
Atrophy verb to hinder the normal growth, development, or progress of
diviner synonym and definition
Augur Noun a person who uses special powers to predict future events : a person who searches for water under the ground by using a special stick (called a divining rod)
soothsayer synonym and definition
Augur Noun someone who makes predictions about what is going to happen in the future
seer synonym and definition
Augur Noun someone who predicts things that will happen in the future
prophet synonym and definition
Augur Noun : a member of some religions (such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam) who delivers messages that are believed to have come from God
bode synonym and definition
Augur verb to be a sign of (a future event or situation)
foreshadow synonym and definition
Augur verb to give a suggestion of (something that has not yet happened)
prophesy synonym and definition
Augur verb to state that something will happen in the future
presage synonym and definition
Augur verb : something that foreshadows or portends a future event : : an intuition or feeling of what is going to happen in the future
prognosticate synonym and definition
Augur verb foretell or prophesy (an event in the future).
divine synonym and definition
Augur verb have supernatural or magical insight into (future events).
portend synonym and definition
Augur verb to be a sign or warning that something usually bad or unpleasant is going to happen
forebode synonym and definition
Augur verb to have an inward conviction of (as coming ill or misfortune)
Abstain synonym usage note B
Be careful NOT TO confuse the verb forbear, meaning "to restrain one-self" with the noun forebear, meaning "ancestor." The noun, which is usually plural, has a slightly different pronunciation, with the accent on the FIRST syllable.
What does bellum mean? What does antebellum mean? What connection does this word have to American history?
Bellum means war, and antebellum means occurring or existing before a particular war, especially the American Civil War.
Define blitzkrieg
Blitzkrieg, ( German: "lightning war") military tactic calculated to create psychological shock and resultant disorganization in enemy forces through the employment of surprise, speed, and superiority in matériel or firepower.
Usage note for bona fide
Bona fide, literally meaning "in good faith", is one of a large group of words and phrases that English has borrowed without change from Latin. In English it means "genuine" or "sincere"
define null and void
Canceled, invalid
What is the difference between depredation and deprivation?
Depredation Definition: an act of plundering, pillaging and marauding Deprivation Definition: a state of extreme poverty
a third-world nation definition.
Developing nations are commonly referred to as Third World.
define dictum and identify its root
Dic, dict (literally, "a thing said") an authoritative statement.
define valedictory and identify its root
Dic, dict (literally, "saying be well") farewell
define indict and identify its root
Dic, dict (literally, "to declare against") to charge with guilt
define interdict and identify its root
Dic, dict (literally, "to say between") to prohibit
define contradict and identify its root
Dic, dict (literally, "to speak against") to oppose, to deny
What is the origin of dic, dict?
Dic, dict are Latin roots
Name two famous charlatans and their impersonators
Elmer Gantry (impersonator: Burt Lancaster) Dr. Dulcamara ("Sweet and Sour"), the quack doctor in Gaetan Donizetti's comic opera "The Elixir of Love) (inset) (impersonator: Fernando Corena)
English words that end in *-cracy* are derived from what root? What does it mean?
English words ending in *-cracy* are derived from the Greek root *kratos* meaning "rule" or "power". One such word is "bureaucracy".
Define to take the bull by the horns
Fig. to confront a problem head-on and deal with it openly
What is the difference between ferment and foment?
For something to ferment, its chemical structure changes, and the resulting change sometimes contains alcohol. The process can also be called fermentation. Something can be described as fermentable. To cause something to foment is to agitate it or increase its growth. There is a pejorative connotation with this word and its synonyms include incite.
Where did the word "censor" originate from?
From Latin
From what word do we get inaugurate? Why?
From augur, we get inaugurate, "to begin formally; to induct into office" and the corresponding noun, inauguration. The hope is that the omens will be favorable for such an important beginning.
Name the origin, meaning, forms, and several words formed by the prefix A, or AN
Greek "not," "without," or "opposed to" This prefix takes the AN form before a root beginning with a vowel and usually before h AN(without)+onuma(name)= anonymous A+typical= atypical a(without)+morphe(form)= amorphous A+symmetrical= asymmetrical A+moral= amoral
Name the origin, meaning, and several words formed by the root/prefix ARCH
Greek In its root form, it means "government" or "ruler", but in its prefix form, it means "principal" or "of the highest rank" ROOT: Anarchy Monarchy (Rule by single sovereign) Oligarchy(rule by the few) Patriarch(a father who is the head of a family/tribe) Hierarchy(a ruling body arranged into a series of grades) PREFIX: Archbishop Archenemy Archduke Archfiend NOTE: Do not confuse the Greek prefix/root ARCH with the English word arch, which means sly/mischevious
Who was Cato the Elder? Describe him.
He was a Roman censor (234-149 BC) who became especially well known for his stern and unyielding standards of behaviors and for the overly aggressive way in which he sought to impose them on the Roman people.
Define to have a frog in one's throat
Hoarseness or phlegm in the throat that makes it difficult to speak or to be understood.
What is the difference between human and humane?
Human Definition: characteristic of humanity Humane Definition: pertaining to or concerned with the humanities or the quality of having compassion
difference between misdemeanor and felony
No indictment for a misdemeanor, and misdemeanors are less serious than felonies
What is the difference between noisy and noisome?
Noisome Definition: having a very bad or offensive smell Noisy Definition: full of or characterized by loud and nonmusical sounds
What was the function of a censor in Ancient Rome?
In Ancient Rome there were 2 magistrates with this title. Their functions included taking the census of citizens (which was necessary for tax purposes), filling vacancies in the Senate (Rome's governing body) and supervising public morals and behavior.
What is the origin of the word candidate?
In ancient Rome a man who wished to be elected to public office wore a white robe or toga while canvassing for votes. That way, he could be recognized more easily wherever he went. Since the Latin word for "white" is "candidus", the would-be official came to be known as a "candidatus", meaning "one clothed in white"From this we get out English word "candidate"
What letter could the prefix *circum* lose? Give two examples of words that contain this prefix
In some English words *circum* loses its *m* and becomes *circu*. Good examples of this include "circuitous" and "circuit".
Give an overview of Vidkun Quisling
In the 1930s, Vidkun Quisling (1887-1945) was a respected Norwegian serving in various political and diplomatic posts. By 1945 he had become Norway's most notorious turncoat, and his surname had supplied English with a new word for traitor.
What is the difference between ingenious and ingenuous?
Ingenuous means innocent, artless, simple. It could be a compliment or an insult, but it does not somehow mean clever or creative. Ingenious, means something original, creative, inventive
What is Comstockery?
It indicates zealous but narrow-minded (and often unfair) censorship of art, literature, or the like.
What is the origin of Ab- Abs-?
It is a Latin prefix
What is the difference between judicial and judicious?
Judicial : ( 1 ) Of or by a court of law Of a judge or of judgment ( 2 ) Impartial Able to judge things wisely Judicious : ( 1 ) Showing or having good judgment and sense
Define savoir-faire
Knowing the right or proper thing to do
Name the origin, meaning, and several words formed by the root VOC or VOKE
Latin "Call" Vocation(calling/job) Avocation(a hobby) Revoke (To call back) Convoke (To call together) Invoke (To call upon) Provoke(To stir up or cause) Vociferous (Loud-voiced) Evoke (To call forth/elicit)
Name the origin, meaning, forms, and several words formed by the prefix AD
Latin "To, towards" This prefix is sometimes 'disguised' when it precedes a root beginning with a consonant. Then, the 'D' from 'AD-' drops and the following consonant doubles. Because of this, the versions AC-, AF-, AG-, AL-, AN-, AP-, AR-, AS-, and AT- all appear in the English language. The merging of consonants is known as an assimilation. AD + (Latin root) fluere = affluent (D drops) AD+ knowledge = acknowledge AD+ grandize= aggrandize
lobby or interest group definition
Lobbying: the process of influencing public and government policy at all levels: federal, state, and local. Interest Group: A group of persons working on behalf of or strongly supporting a particular cause, such as an industry or an item of legislation.
What is the difference between martial and marital?
Marital has to do with marriage, and martial is concerned with fighting.
What does the Greek root auto mean? What words contain this root?
Meaning: Self, same Autocrat (literally: self-ruling)-- a ruler with unlimited or unrestricted power; a tyrant or despot Autopsy (literally: "seeing with one's own eyes")-- the examination of a dead body to determine the cause of death Autonomy-- independence; self-government Autograph-- a person's own signature or handwriting Autodidact-- a person who is self-taught Automatic-- self-operating; running or working by itself
What does the Latin root ag, act mean? What words contain this root?
Meaning: act, drive exigency-- a driving need agitate-- to stir up coagulate-- to form into a compact mass; to congeal enact-- to make into law; to act out on stage cogent-- forceful; convincing cogitate (literally: "to drive about in one's mind")-- to ponder or consider intently
What does the suffix -ize mean? What words contain this suffix?
Meaning: make or make into (used for making a verb out of a noun or adjective) popular + -ize = popularize-- to make popular deputy + -ize = deputize-- to make into a deputy pole + -ize = polarize (not polize!)-- to concentrate around two conflicting or contrasting positions fraternity + -ize = fraternize (not fraternitize!)-- to be sociable with
What Indo-European root does *circum* itself come from? Name some words with this root.
Note that *circum* itself comes from the Indo-European root *(s)ker*, which means "bend" or "turn". Words from this root include "circus", "circle", "circulate", "curvature", and surprisingly, search and crown.
human rights definition.
Noun rights (as freedom from unlawful imprisonment, torture, and execution) regarded as belonging fundamentally to all persons
hagiography part of speech and definition
Noun A book about the lives of saints; a biography that elaborately idealizes that author's subject.
epigraph part of speech and definition
Noun A brief quotation at the beginning of a book; an inscription on a building or monument.
annotation part of speech and definition
Noun A critical or explanatory note written to comment or shed light on a text
lexicon part of speech and definition
Noun A dictionary; the special vocabulary of a particular author or field of study.
paradigm part of speech and definition
Noun A pattern, model, or example; an overarching concept that is generally accepted because of its effectiveness in explaining a complex idea or process.
affectation part of speech, definition, phrases with the word in them, related form/phrase
Noun A pretentious display of manners or sentiments that are not genuine; a peculiar habit of dress or behavior that has been adopted to impress others. An affected style of speaking; to affect an air of sophistication (adj) affected, (verb) affect To put on airs
didactictism part of speech and definition
Noun A style of writing or speech deliberately crafted to teach or instruct others, especially in morals.
asylum part of speech, definition and related phrases.
Noun A: an institution that shelter and cares for mentally unbalanced, aged, or homeless persons B: Any place offering protection and security C: Protection against a legal or social penalty Protective custody, a safe house
juxtaposition part of speech and definition
Noun The act or an instance of placing two or more (usually dissimilar) things close together or side by side, especially in order to compare them.
agenda part of speech, definition and usage note,
Noun a list or program of things to be done or acted upon Agenda was originally a Latin plural noun meaning "things to be done" (singular, agendum). However, it is generally treated in English today as a collective noun taking a singular verb. One the other hand, it is certainly not wrong-- although it may seem a bit pedantic-- to treat agenda as a plural form. In that case, the Latin singular form agendum may be used to indicate one particular item among the several included in the agenda
atrocity part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases and usage note.
Noun a savagely cruel, brutal, or inhuman deed; a monstrocity (Adj) atrocious (noun) atrociousness war crimes, a crime against humanity Usage Note: Atrocious means not only "extremely cruel or brutal" (as in the phrase "an atrocious crime") but also "extremely poor or bad" (as in the phrases "atrocious behavior" and "atrocious taste"). Atrociousness, the noun form, is used in exactly the same way.
archetype part of speech and definition
Noun An original model on which something of the same type is patterned or copied.
atrophy part of speech, definition, and related form
Noun and Verb A: (noun) A failure to develop normally; a progressive wasting away or decline B: (verb) To waste away (Adj) atrophic
buttress part of speech, and definition
Noun and verb (Noun): A support or reinforcement (Verb): To support or reinforce.
augur part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
Noun and verb A: (noun) Someone who can forecast the future by spotting various signs or indications of what is to come B: (verb) to predict or foretell through signs; to point or to be an omen of (Noun) augury Usage Note: the noun augury means a number of things: (1) "the art of forecasting the future" (2) "a prophecy" (3) "a sign or omen." Accordingly, words that mean the same thing include both divination and prediction, as well as potent, premonition, and harbinger.
What is the difference between official and officious?
Official Definition: a worker who holds or is invested with an office Officious Definition: intrusive in a meddling or offensive manner
culprit definition
One who is guilty of a crime
open diplomacy definition.
Open diplomacy means the negotiations and discussions carried out in handling affairs without arousing hostility. It is usually carried on with free access to interested observers and members of the press. It refers to the art and practice of conducting negotiations between nation.
define cost-of-living increase
Periodic increase in wages or salaries, to compensate for loss in purchasing power of money due to inflation.
political machine definition
Political machine, in U.S. politics, a party organization, headed by a single boss or small autocratic group, that commands enough votes to maintain political and administrative control of a city, county, or state.
regulatory agency definition
Regulatory agency, independent governmental commission established by legislative act in order to set standards in a specific field of activity, or operations, in the private sector of the economy and to then enforce those standards
censure related phrases
Related Phrases: (Expressing strong disapproval) Take to task, call on the carpet, dress down, bawl out; (Expressing mild disapproval) let off with a slap on the wrist; (expressing approval) give a pat on the back
What is the difference between resound and redound?
Resound is to echo or to make an echoing sound redound is to contribute greatly to a person's credit or honor.
define right-to-work laws
Right-to-work laws forbid unions and employers to enter into agreements requiring employees to join a union and pay dues and fees to it in order to get or keep a job.
What is the difference between a soliloquy and a colloquy?
Soliloquy: a long, usually serious speech that a character in a play makes to an audience and that reveals the character's thoughts Colloquy:1: conversation, dialogue 2: a high-level serious discussion : conference
Usage note for synonym of agile
Some distinctions should be drawn among the synonyms of agile: alert refers to quickness of mind; brisk suggests liveliness; supple means "pliant" or "bending and twisting easily"; and spry indicates agility despite age or infirmity.
accessory after the fact definition
Someone who assists another 1) who has committed a felony, 2) after the person has committed the felony, 3) with knowledge that the person committed the felony, and 4) with the intent to help the person avoid arrest or punishment. An accessory after the fact may be held liable for, inter alia, obstruction of justice.
What is a nihilist?
Someone who believes in nihilism
What is a monologist?
Someone who gives long speeches by him/herself (which prevents anyone else from talking)
Define a paper tiger
Something that appears dangerous but is not.
Define fait accompli
Something that cannot be reversed
What is the difference between flaunt and flout?
To flaunt is to exhibit or parade (something) in an ostentatious manner. To flout is (1) to show contempt for or to scorn, or (2) to contemptuously ignore (especially rules or conventions).
What is the difference between founder and flounder?
To flounder is (1) to struggle or move with difficulty, as in mud; or (2) to behave awkwardly or make mistakes. One who flounders does not fail completely but merely struggles. To founder is (1) to cave in, (2) to sink below the water, (3) to fail utterly, or (4) to go lame. While to flounder is merely to struggle, foundering usually involves utter failure.
Define to get one's goat
To make angry.
bureaucracy usage note.
Today "bureaucracy", "bureaucrat" and "bureaucratic" are used most frequently of government, especially the federal government, to suggest too much formalism or red tape. As a result, the terms are almost always pejorative (unless, of course, the context indicates otherwise). Note, too, that all three expressions may properly be used of nongovernmental institutions, since private organizations are run in much the same way as the government. Indeed, "bureaucracy" and its derivatives can justly be applied to any administrative setup that has become overgrown or that insists upon following complex rules and procedures that seem to hinder or stifle quick and effective action.
Describe the early career of Vidkun Quisling
Trained at Norway's only military academy, Quisling became a major in the Norwegian army. After that, he served as an official at the League of Nations and was responsible for the handling of refugees fleeing Stalin's Russia.
banal synonym usage note
Trite and hackneyed indicate staleness or dullness due to overuse. Stereotyped suggests a lack of originality and an overheavy reliance on conventional ideas, images, or forms. Pedestrian and prosaic simply indicate that something is quite ordinary. Vapid and fatuous suggest a lack of substance or perceptivity. Jejune adds to this the idea of childishness. Corny is a slang expression that can designate anything from triteness to oversentimentality.
define unskilled worker
Unskilled labor is a segment of the work force associated with a low skill level or a limited economic value for the work performed (human capital). Unskilled labor is generally characterized by low education levels and small wages.
Adjourn part of speech, definition, related form
Verb A: To close formally B: To put off to another time; to move to another place. (noun) Adjournment
circumvent part of speech, definition, and related form
Verb To get around or avoid, especially by trickery or deception Related form: (noun) circumvention
blight part of speech, definition, and related phrases.
Verb and Noun A: (verb) to check or destroy the growth of B: (noun) something that impairs growth or causes ruin. Phrases: blighted hopes, urban blight, dry rot, put a damper on, urban renewal
Define a lame-duck session of Congress
When Congress (or either chamber) reconvenes in an even-numbered year following the November general elections to consider various items of business. Some lawmakers who return for this session will not be in the next Congress. Hence, they are informally called "lame duck" members participating in a "lame duck" session.
chronic usage note
When used as a medical term, chronic indicates the kind of ailment or disease that develops slowly over a very long period of time and only gradually becomes serious or fatal-- for example, heart disease. The opposite is *acute*, which indicates the kind of medical problem that comes on a person suddenly or unexpectedly and takes only a short time to become critical-- for example, appendicitis.
How did Vidkun Quisling's name take on the meaning it has today?
While acting as Norway's Minister of Defense from 1931 to 1933, Quisling developed a great admiration for the Germans. When WWII broke out, Quisling helped the German military plan the invasion of his native land; and when the Nazis arrived, he used his influence to hasten Norway's collapse. Somewhat later, the Nazis appointed Quisling Premier of Norway, a position he held until the war ended. In May 1945, Quisling was arrested, tried, and executed for high treason. Because of Quisling's part in the betrayal of Norway, his name became synonymous with treachery
define sybaritic
[from the notorious luxury of the Sybarites] : voluptuary, sensualist
Define cul-de-sac
a blind alley or dead end
atlas definition and origin
a book of maps or charts. From the Greek titan Atlas, who held up the world
tattletale
a child who tells a parent, teacher, etc., about something bad or wrong that another child has done : a child who tattles on another child
alibi
a claim that you cannot be guilty of a crime because you were somewhere else when the crime was committed; also : evidence which shows that such a claim is true
quisling definition and origin
a person who helps an enemy that has taken control of his or her country From Vidkun Quisling
Define an eager beaver
a person who is excessively diligent or overly zealous.
martinet definition and origin
a person who is very strict and demands obedience from others From Lieutenant Colonel Jean Martinet
Define a loan shark
a person who lends money at excessively high rates of interest; usurer.
Define aficionado
a person who likes and knows a lot about something
Disc Jockey definition
a person who plays popular recorded music on the radio or at a party or nightclub
maverick definition and origin
a person who refuses to follow the customs or rules of a group From Samuel A. Maverick
spendthrift
a person who spends money in a careless or wasteful way
turncoat
a person who stops being a member of a group in order to join another group that opposes it
shyster definition
a person, especially a lawyer, who uses unscrupulous, fraudulent, or deceptive methods in business.
Define a stool pigeon
a pigeon (or person) used as a decoy.
define mecca
a place that attracts many people
nicotine definition and origin
a poisonous substance in tobacco that makes it difficult for people to stop smoking cigarettes From Jean Nicot
Define a white elephant
a possession unwanted by the owner but difficult to dispose of: a possession entailing great expense out of proportion to its usefulness or value to the owner:
define seniority
a privileged position earned by reason of longer service or higher rank.
eminent domain definition
a right of a government to take private property for public use
Definition of circumlocution
a roundabout way of saying something. Adj: circumlocutory
Define a round-robin
a sequence or series.
Define peccadillo
a small mistake or fault that is not regarded as very bad or serious
Define boutique
a small specialty shop
Define faux pas
a social blunder
the affluent society
a society in which the material benefits of prosperity are widely available
animadversion definition and root
a strong criticism; a hostile remark
animus
a strong feeling of dislike or hatred
merit system definition
a system by which appointments and promotions in the civil service are based on competence rather than political favoritism
reprieve definition
a temporary delay in carrying out a sentence
Define armistice
a temporary suspension of hostilities by agreement of the warring parties; truce:
define mayonnaise
a thick, white sauce used especially in salads and on sandwiches and made chiefly of eggs, vegetable oil, and vinegar or lemon juice
pickpocket
a thief who steals money and other things from people's pockets and purses
define journeyman
a trained worker who is employed by someone else.
define industrial union
a union whose members all work in various capacities in a single industry.
makeshift
a usually crude and temporary expedient : substitute
define statesmanship
a usually wise, skilled, and respected government leader
define limousine
a very large and comfortable car usually driven by a professional driver (called a chauffeur)
define bedlam
a very noisy and confused state or scene
What is a Pyrrhic victory and what is its background
a victory or goal achieved at too great a cost. named after Pyrrhus, who defeated the Romans at Asculum in 279 bc but suffered heavy losses
Define desperado
a violent criminal who is not afraid of getting hurt or caught
breakwater
a wall that is built out into the sea to protect a harbor or beach from the force of waves
subpoena definition
a written order summoning a person to a court to give testimony.
affidavit
a written report which is signed by a person who promises that the information is true
affidavit definition
a written statement made under oath
Chiropractor definition
a medical person trained to treat pain and injury esp. by pressing the muscles of a person's back to adjust the positions of the bones
look askance at related phrase
abhor (askance, adverb; in a way that shows a lack of trust or approval)
dote on antonym and definition
abhor (dote, intransitive verb; : to be lavish or excessive in one's attention, fondness, or affection —usually used with on <doted on her only grandchild>)
be fond of antonym and definition
abhor (fond, adj;: feeling or showing love or friendship : strongly felt)
make a wry face at related phrase
abhor (wry, adj; : having a bent or twisted shape or condition <a wry smile>; also : turned abnormally to one side <a wry neck> 2 : wrongheaded 1 3 : cleverly and often ironically or grimly humorous)
delight in antonym and definition
abhor noun : a strong feeling of happiness : great pleasure or satisfaction : something that makes you very happy : something that gives you great pleasure or satisfaction
aversion synonym and definition
abhor noun : a strong feeling of not liking something
relish antonym and definition
abhor noun : enjoyment of or delight in something : a feeling of liking something
like antonym and definition
abhor noun : to enjoy (something) : to get pleasure from (something) : to regard (something) in a favorable way : to feel affection for (someone) : to enjoy being with (someone)
love antonym and definition
abhor noun a (1) : strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties <maternal love for a child> (2) : attraction based on sexual desire : affection and tenderness felt by lovers (3) : affection based on admiration, benevolence, or common interests <love for his old schoolmates> : warm attachment, enthusiasm, or devotion : the object of attachment, devotion, or admiration
abominate synonym and definition
abhor verb to feel great hatred for (someone or something)
despise synonym and definition
abhor verb : to dislike (something or someone) very much
Loathe synonym, definition, and usage note.
abhor verb : to hate (someone or something) very much DO NOT confuse the VERB loathe, meaning "dislike intensely" and the adjective loath, meaning "reluctant, disinclined."
fancy antonym and definition
abhor verb : to take pleasure in (something) : to consider (someone or something) likely to win or succeed : to want to have or do (something)
detest synonym and definition
abhor verb to dislike (someone or something) very strongly
cherish antonym and definition
abhor verb to feel or show great love for (someone or something) : to remember or hold (an idea, belief, etc.) in a deeply felt way
shameless synonym and definition
abject adj having or showing no shame
thoroughgoing synonym and definition
abject adj including every possible detail : very thorough or complete
debasing synonym and definition
abject adj (debase, verb;: to lower the value or reputation of (someone or something) : to make (someone or something) less respected)
disheartening synonym and definition
abject adj (dishearten, verb; : to cause (a person or group of people) to lose hope, enthusiasm, or courage : to discourage (someone))
vile synonym and definition
abject adj : evil or immoral : very bad or unpleasant
hopeless synonym and definition
abject adj : having or feeling no hope : unable to be changed : unable to be helped or improved : very bad
utter synonym and definition
abject adj complete and total
craven synonym and definition
abject adj having or showing a complete lack of courage : very cowardly
ignoble synonym and definition
abject adj not deserving respect : not noble or honorable
helpless synonym and definition
abject adj not protected : not able to defend yourself : unable to do something to make a situation, task, etc., better or easier : not able to be controlled
sheer synonym and definition
abject adj —used to emphasize the large amount, size, or degree of something : complete and total
downright synonym and definition
abject adverb to the fullest degree : completely or totally
speculative synonym and definition
academic adj : based on guesses or ideas about what might happen or be true rather than on facts : tending to think about what might happen or be true : tending to speculate : showing curiosity or uncertainty
Scholastic synonym and definition
academic adj : of or relating to education
consent synonym and definition
accede verb to agree to do or allow something : to give permission for something to happen or be done
assent synonym and definition
accede verb : to agree to or approve of something (such as an idea or suggestion) especially after carefully thinking about it
agree synonym and definition
accede verb : to have the same opinion : to say that you will do, accept, or allow something that is suggested or requested by another person
acquiesce synonym and definition
accede verb to accept, agree, or allow something to happen by staying silent or by not arguing
concur synonym and definition
accede verb to agree with someone or something
equivocal synonym and definition
ambivalent Adj : having two or more possible meanings : not easily understood or explained
demur antonym and definition
accede verb to disagree politely with another person's statement or suggestion : to politely refuse to accept a request or suggestion
comply synonym and definition
accede verb to do what you have been asked or ordered to do
dissent antonym and definition
accede verb to publicly disagree with an official opinion, decision, or set of beliefs
orientation synonym and definition
acclimate noun : a person's feelings, interests, and beliefs : a main interest, quality, or goal : the process of giving people training and information about a new job, situation, etc.
habituate synonym and definition
acclimate verb : to cause (a person or animal) to become familiar with and used to a particular place, situation, etc.
adjust synonym and definition
acclimate verb : to change (something) in a minor way so that it works better : to change the position of (something) : to change in order to work or do better in a new situation
orient synonym and definition
acclimate verb a : to set right by adjusting to facts or principles b : to acquaint with the existing situation or environment
accustom synonym and definition
acclimate verb to cause (someone) to become adjusted to or familiar with something
adapt synonym and definition
acclimate verb to change your behavior so that it is easier to live in a particular place or situation : to change (something) so that it functions better or is better suited for a purpose : to change (a movie, book, play, etc.) so that it can be presented in another form
orientate synonym and definition
acclimate verb to face or turn to the east, to orient.
familiarize synonym and definition
acclimate verb to give (someone) knowledge about something : to make (someone) familiar with something
academic part of speech, definition and related forms and phrases.
adj A: pertaining to a college or other institution of learning; scholarly B: Theoretical rather than practical, unrealistic. (Nouns) academy, academician; (adverb) academically Academic freedom, the halls of academe, and academic question.
abject part of speech, definition and related phrases.
adj A: wretched, miserable;degrading, humiliating. B: Mean-spirited, base; despicable, contemptible C: Complete and unrelieved. An abject flatterer, an abject liar, an abject imitator, abject surrender, abject apologies.
authentic part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases.
adj genuine, trustworthy (noun) authenticity (verb) authenticate an authentic record, an authentic document, an authentic account
Adverse part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note,
adj. Hostile in purpose or effect; unfavorable (adverb)Adversely, (nouns)adversary, adversity Do not confuse adverse with the related adjective averse, meaning "opposed" or "disinclined." Adverse (with the d) is used of things to indicate that they have gone contrary to a person's wishes. Averse (without the d), on the other hand, indicates opposition on the part of the person himself or herself.
recommend synonym and definition
advocate verb : to say that (someone or something) is good and deserves to be chosen : to suggest that someone do (something) : to make (something or someone) seem attractive or good
uphold synonym and definition
advocate verb : to support or defend (something, such as a law) : to judge (a legal decision) to be correct : to decide not to change (a verdict)
telltale
indicating or giving evidence of something
prima facie part of speech and definition.
adverb "at first face" at first view : on the first appearance
sub rosa part of speech and definition.
adverb (Literally, "under the rose", from ancient association of the rose with secrecy) In confidence/secretly
in absentia part of speech and definition.
adverb : without being present
pro tempore part of speech and definition.
adverb for the time being
de facto part of speech and definition.
adverb in reality
vice versa part of speech and definition.
adverb used to say that the opposite of a statement is also true
ex officio part of speech and definition.
adverb/Adj because of your job, office, or position
proponent synonym and definition
advocate noun a person who argues for or supports something
antagonist antonym and definition
advocate noun a person who opposes another person
backer synonym and definition
advocate noun (To Back: : to give help to (someone) : to bet on (someone or something) : to provide evidence that supports (something))
opponent antonym and definition
advocate noun : a person, team, group, etc., that is competing against another in a contest : a person, group, etc., that is against something (such as an action, law, or system) : someone or something that does not want something to exist, be done, etc.
adversary antonym and definition
advocate noun : an enemy or opponent
spokesman synonym and definition
advocate noun : someone who speaks for or represents a person, company, etc.
defender synonym and definition
advocate noun one that: fights in order to keep (someone or something) safe : does not allow a person or thing to hurt, damage, or destroy (someone or something) : fights or works hard in order to keep (something, such as a right, interest, cause, etc.) from being taken away : speaks or writes in support of (someone or something that is being challenged or criticized)
critic antonym and definition
advocate noun one who expresses a reasoned opinion on any matter especially involving a judgment of its value, truth, righteousness, beauty, or technique one who engages often professionally in the analysis, evaluation, or appreciation of works of art or artistic performances : one given to harsh or captious judgment
espouse synonym and definition
advocate verb to express support for (a cause, belief, etc.)
attack antonym and definition
advocate verb : to act violently against (someone or something) : to try to hurt, injure, or destroy (something or someone) : to criticize (someone or something) in a very harsh and severe way : to begin to work on or deal with (something, such as a problem) in a determined and eager way
support synonym and definition
advocate verb : to agree with or approve of (someone or something) : to show that you approve of (someone or something) by doing something : to give help or assistance to (someone or something)
oppose antonym and definition
advocate verb : to disagree with or disapprove of (something or someone) : to compete against (someone) : to be an opponent of (someone) : to try to stop or defeat (something)
champion synonym and definition
advocate verb : to fight or speak publicly in support of (a person, belief, cause, etc.)
denounce antonym and definition
advocate verb : to publicly state that someone or something is bad or wrong : to criticize (someone or something) harshly and publicly : to report (someone) to the police or other authorities for illegal or immoral acts
condemn antonym and definition
advocate verb : to say in a strong and definite way that someone or something is bad or wrong : to give (someone) a usually severe punishment : to cause (someone) to suffer or live in difficult or unpleasant conditions
firm antonym and definition
ambivalent Adj : fairly hard or solid : not soft : set, placed, or attached in a way that is not easily moved : not weak or uncertain
friendly synonym and definition
affable Adj : acting like a friend : kind and helpful : having or showing the feelings that friends have for each other : showing support or approval
testy antonym and definition
affable Adj : becoming angry or annoyed easily
ill-tempered antonym and definition
affable Adj : easily annoyed or angered : showing that you are annoyed or angry
genial synonym and definition
affable Adj : favorable to growth or comfort : mild : marked by or diffusing sympathy or friendliness
amiable synonym and definition
affable Adj : friendly and pleasant
good-natured synonym and definition
affable Adj : friendly, pleasant, or cheerful
sociable synonym and definition
affable Adj : liking to be with and talk to other people : involving or allowing friendly and pleasant social relations
unsociable antonym and definition
affable Adj : not liking to be with other people : not sociable
surly antonym and definition
affable Adj : rude and unfriendly
pretense synonym and definition
affectation Noun : a false reason or explanation that is used to hide the real purpose of something : an act or appearance that looks real but is false : a claim of having a particular quality, ability, condition, etc.
pose synonym and definition
affectation Noun : a kind of behavior that is intended to impress other people and that is not sincere
mannerism synonym and definition
affectation Noun : exaggerated or affected adherence to a particular style or manner : artificiality, preciosity : a characteristic and often unconscious mode or peculiarity of action, bearing, or treatment
epidemic definition and origin
affecting or tending to affect a disproportionately large number of individuals within a population, community, or region at the same time
indigent antonym and definition
affluent Adj lacking money : very poor
flourishing synonym and definition
affluent Adj (Flourish: : to grow well : to be healthy : to be very successful : to do very well : to hold up and show (something) in an excited or proud way)
destitute antonym and definition
affluent Adj : extremely poor : without something that is needed or wanted
penniless antonym and definition
affluent Adj : having no money : very poor
well-to-do synonym and definition
affluent Adj : having plenty of money and possessions
opulent synonym and definition
affluent Adj : very comfortable and expensive : very wealthy
poverty-stricken antonym and definition
affluent Adj : very poor
well-heeled related word and explanation
affluent In the old days only wealthy people could afford shoes with heels on them. Since they were wealthy, they could also afford to keep those heels in good condition. Hence, to "be well-heeled" came to mean "to be wealthy or affluent." The opposite is "down-at-heel", meaning "poor" because run-down heels were a sign of poverty. As Shakespeare says in King Lear: "A good man's fortune may grow out at heel."
To serve Mammon related word and explanation
affluent The word "mammon" means "riches" in Aramaic, an ancient Semitic language related to Hebrew. Among the Hebrews of biblical times, "mammon" was personified as the god Mammon, who represented not merely wealth but materialism and an excessive concern with acquiring riches.
As rich as Croesus related word and explanation
affluent This phrase goes back to Croesus, king of Lydia, an ancient country in western Turkey. Croesus had a reputation among the Greeks for being extremely rich, and he became the personification of limitless wealth.
Living high off the hog related word and explanation
affluent This phrase of rural American origin suggests that a person is in good circumstances because he or she is eating the more desirable cuts of meat from a slaughtered hog.
docket synonym definition, and usage note
agenda Noun : a list of the legal cases that will be tried in a court of law : a list of things to do or discuss A docket is literally a list of cases awaiting action in a court of law, but the word is often used figuratively of any list to be done.
schedule synonym and definition
agenda Noun : a plan of things that will be done and the times when they will be done : a written or printed list of things and the times when they will be done : a list of the times when buses, trains, airplanes, etc., leave or arrive
net synonym and definition
aggregate Adj : free from all charges or deductions : remaining after the deduction of all charges, outlay, or loss : excluding all tare : excluding all nonessential considerations : basic, final
composite synonym and definition
aggregate Adj : made of different parts or elements
assemblage synonym and definition
aggregate Noun : a group of people or things
cluster synonym and definition
aggregate Noun : a group of things or people that are close together
conglomeration synonym and definition
aggregate Noun : a group or mixture of different things : a process in which different things come together to form a single thing
mass synonym and definition
aggregate Noun : a quantity or aggregate of matter usually of considerable size : expanse, bulk : massive quality or effect : the main part or body : aggregate, whole : a large quantity, amount, or number : a large body of persons in a group
amalgamation synonym and definition
aggregate Noun : the action or process of amalgamating : uniting : the state of being amalgamated : the result of amalgamating : amalgam : merger
consolidate synonym and definition
aggregate Verb : to join or combine together into one thing : to make (something, such as a position of power or control) stronger or more secure
amalgamate synonym and definition
aggregate Verb : to unite (two or more things, such as two businesses) into one thing
nimble synonym and definition
agile Adj : able to move quickly, easily, and lightly : able to learn and understand things quickly and easily
alert synonym and definition
agile Adj : able to think clearly and to notice things
limber synonym and definition
agile Adj : capable of being shaped : having a supple and resilient quality (as of mind or body) :
lethargic antonym and definition
agile Adj : feeling a lack of energy or a lack of interest in doing things
spry synonym and definition
agile Adj : full of life and energy
torpid antonym and definition
agile Adj : having or showing very little energy or movement : not active
lithe synonym and definition
agile Adj : moving in an easy and graceful way
clumsy antonym and definition
agile Adj : moving or doing things in a very awkward way and tending to drop or break things : badly or awkwardly made or done : hard to use : awkward to handle
brisk synonym and definition
agile Adj : moving or speaking quickly : quick and efficient : pleasantly cool or cold : done with quickness and energy
sluggish antonym and definition
agile Adj : moving slowly or lazily
awkward antonym and definition
agile Adj : not graceful : lacking skill : difficult to use or handle
supple synonym and definition
agile Adj of a body or body part : able to bend or twist easily : soft and able to bend or fold easily
define labor force
all the members of a particular organization or population who are able to work, viewed collectively.
asseverate synonym and definition
allege verb : to affirm or declare positively or earnestly
contend synonym and definition
allege verb : to argue or state (something) in a strong and definite way : to compete with someone or for something : to compete with a good chance of winning
avow synonym and definition
allege verb : to declare or state (something) in an open and public way
aver synonym and definition
allege verb : to say (something) in a very strong and definite way
declare synonym and definition
allege verb : to say or state (something) in an official or public way : to say (something) in a strong and confident way : to tell the government about (money you have earned or received) in order to pay taxes
claim synonym and definition
allege verb : to say that (something) is true when some people may say it is not true : to say that you have (something) : to say that (something) belongs to you or that you deserve (something)
affirm synonym and definition
allege verb : to say that something is true in a confident way : to show a strong belief in or dedication to (something, such as an important idea) law : to decide that the judgment of another court is correct
assert synonym and definition
allege verb : to state (something) in a strong and definite way : to demand that other people accept or respect (something)
hint at synonym and definition
allude Verb to give a brief or indirect suggestion; a tip; a clue
suggest synonym and definition
allude verb : to mention (something) as a possible thing to be done, used, thought about, etc. : to say that (someone or something) is good or deserves to be chosen : to show that (something) is likely or true : to indicate (something) usually without showing it in a direct or certain way
insinuate synonym and definition
allude verb : to say (something, especially something bad or insulting) in an indirect way : to gradually make (yourself) a part of a group, a person's life, etc., often by behaving in a dishonest way
intimate synonym and definition
allude verb : to say or suggest (something) in an indirect way
alias
also called : otherwise known as an additional name that a person (such as a criminal) sometimes uses
milieu synonym and definition
ambience noun : the physical or social setting in which people live or in which something happens or develops
setting synonym and definition
ambience noun : the place and conditions in which something happens or exists : the time, place, and conditions in which the action of a book, movie, etc., takes place : the rooms, painted backgrounds, furniture, etc., that are used for a scene in a movie or play
flavor synonym and definition
ambience noun : the quality of something that you can taste : a particular type of taste : a good or appealing taste
character synonym and definition
ambience noun : the way someone thinks, feels, and behaves : someone's personality : a set of qualities that are shared by many people in a group, country, etc. : a set of qualities that make a place or thing different from other places or things
surroundings synonym and definition
ambience noun(pl) : the places, conditions, or objects that are around you
steady antonym and definition
ambivalent Adj 1a : direct or sure in movement : unfaltering, b : firm in position : fixed c : keeping nearly upright in a seaway 2: showing little variation or fluctuation : stable, uniform
contradictory synonym and definition
ambivalent Adj : involving or having information that disagrees with other information : containing a contradiction
definite antonym and definition
ambivalent Adj : said or done in a such way that others know exactly what you mean : not likely to change : already set or decided : confident or certain about doing something or that something will happen
clear-cut antonym and definition
ambivalent Adj : very obvious and sharp : free from doubt or uncertainty : very definite
unequivocal antonym and definition
ambivalent Adj : very strong and clear : not showing or allowing any doubt : not equivocal
vacillating synonym and definition
ambivalent Adj :not resolute; wavering; indecisive; hesitating :oscillating; swaying; fluctuating:
conflicting synonym and definition
ambivalent Adj being in conflict, collision, or opposition : incompatible
opposing synonym and definition
ambivalent Adj in conflict or competition with a specified or implied subject. (of two or more subjects) differing from or in conflict with each other. facing; opposite.
unwavering antonym and definition
ambivalent Adj steady or resolute; not wavering.
immunity synonym and definition
amnesty noun : special protection from what is required for most people by law
absolution (of sin) synonym and definition
amnesty noun : the act of forgiving someone for having done something wrong or sinful : the act of absolving someone or the state of being absolved
forgiveness synonym and definition
amnesty noun : the act of forgiving someone or something : the attitude of someone who is willing to forgive other people
remission (of punishment) synonym and definition
amnesty noun The act of canceling or freeing (of punishment)
plea bargaining definition
an arrangement between a prosecutor and a defendant whereby the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in the expectation of leniency.
Define preemptive strike
an attack against a possible enemy to prevent an attack by that enemy at a later time.
chauvinist definition and origin
an attitude that the members of your own sex are always better than those of the opposite sex : the belief that your country, race, etc., is better than any other From Nicolas Chauvin
filibuster definition
an effort to prevent action in a legislature (such as the U.S. Senate or House of Representatives) by making a long speech or series of speeches
referendum definition
an event in which the people of a county, state, etc., vote for or against a law that deals with a specific issue : a public vote on a particular issue
caveat
an explanation or warning that should be remembered when you are doing or thinking about something
phobia definition and origin
an extremely strong dislike or fear of someone or something
scapegrace
an incorrigible rascal
define equal employment opportunity
an independent federal agency created under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, to police a program (Equal Employment Opportunity) to eliminate discrimination in employment based on race, color, age, sex, national origin, religion, or mental or physical disability.
Define bête noire
an object of strong dislike
executive order definition
an order that comes from the U.S. President or a government agency and must be obeyed like a law
throwback synonym and definition
anachronism noun : a person or thing that is similar to someone or something from the past or that is suited to an earlier time
contradiction synonym and definition
anachronism noun : the act of saying something that is opposite or very different in meaning to something else : a difference or disagreement between two things which means that both cannot be true
inconsistency synonym and definition
anachronism noun An instance of being or the quality or state of not always acting or behaving in the same way, not continuing to happen or develop in the same way, or having parts that disagree with each other, not being in agreement with something.
incongruity synonym and definition
anachronism noun The quality or state of being strange because of not agreeing with what is usual or expected.
disorder synonym and definition
anarchy noun : a confused or messy state : a lack of order or organization : a state or situation in which there is a lot of noise, crime, violent behavior, etc. medical : a physical or mental condition that is not normal or healthy
turmoil synonym and definition
anarchy noun : a state of confusion or disorder
chaos synonym and definition
anarchy noun : complete confusion and disorder : a state in which behavior and events are not controlled by anything
pandemonium synonym and definition
anarchy noun : the infernal regions : hell :(not capitalized): a wild uproar : tumult
lawlessness synonym and definition
anarchy noun The state of having no laws The act of not obeying the law.
praise antonym and definition
anathema verb : to say or write good things about (someone or something) : to express approval of (someone or something) : to express thanks to or love and respect for (God)
execration synonym and definition
anathema noun 1 : the act of cursing or denouncing; also : the curse so uttered 2 : an object of curses : something detested
blessing antonym and definition
anathema noun : approval that allows or helps you to do something : help and approval from God : something that helps you or brings happiness
malediction synonym and definition
anathema noun : curse, execration
encomium antonym and definition
anathema noun : glowing and warmly enthusiastic praise; also : an expression of this
abomination synonym and definition
anathema noun : something that causes disgust or hatred
cherish antonym and definition
anathema verb : to feel or show great love for (someone or something) : to remember or hold (an idea, belief, etc.) in a deeply felt way
glorify antonym and definition
anathema verb : to honor or praise (a god or goddess) : to make (something) seem much better or more important than it really is
bless antonym and definition
anathema verb : to make (something or someone) holy by saying a special prayer : to ask God to care for and protect (someone or something) : to provide (a person, place, etc.) with something good or desirable
extol antonym and definition
anathema verb : to praise (someone or something) highly
story synonym and definition
anecdote noun 2a : an account of incidents or events b : a statement regarding the facts pertinent to a situation in question c : anecdote; especially : an amusing one 3a : a fictional narrative shorter than a novel; specifically : short story b : the intrigue or plot of a narrative or dramatic work
sketch synonym and definition
anecdote noun : a quick, rough drawing that shows the main features of an object or scene : a short description of something : a short, funny performance
vignette synonym and definition
anecdote noun : a short written description : a short scene in a movie or play : a picture or engraving in a book
tale synonym and definition
anecdote noun : a story about imaginary events : an exciting or dramatic story : a story about someone's actual experiences : an exciting story that may not be completely true
narrative synonym and definition
anecdote noun : a story that is told or written
reminiscence synonym and definition
anecdote noun : a story that someone tells about something that happened in the past : the act of remembering or telling about past experiences
episode synonym and definition
anecdote noun : an event or a short period of time that is important or unusual : a television show, radio show, etc., that is one part of a series : an occurrence of an illness
raconteur synonym and definition
anecdote noun : someone who is good at telling stories
storyteller synonym and definition
anecdote noun : someone who tells or writes stories
memoir synonym and definition
anecdote noun memoirs : a written account in which someone (such as a famous performer or politician) describes past experiences : a written account of someone or something that is usually based on personal knowledge of the subject
What are martial arts? Who is a martial artist?
any of several arts of combat and self defense (as karate and judo) that are widely practiced as sport. A martial artist is one who specializes or has mastered martial arts.
Define hors d'oeuvres
appetizers
acute synonym, definition and related phrase
astute Adj having or showing an ability to think clearly and to understand what is not obvious or simple about something : very strong and sensitive : highly developed
sagacious synonym and definition
astute Adj having or showing an ability to understand difficult ideas and situations and to make good decisions
perceptive synonym and definition
astute Adj having or showing an ability to understand or notice something easily or quickly
judicious synonym and definition
astute Adj having or showing good judgment
quick-witted synonym and definition
astute Adj having or showing the ability to think and understand things quickly
sharp synonym, definition and related phrase
astute Adj keen in intellect :
inane antonym and definition
astute Adj very silly or stupid
farsighted synonym and definition
astute Adj : able to predict what will or might happen in the future
wily synonym and definition
astute Adj : full of clever tricks : very clever
perspicacious synonym and definition
astute Adj : having or showing an ability to notice and understand things that are difficult or not obvious
shrewd synonym, definition and related phrases
astute Adj : having or showing an ability to understand things and to make good judgments : mentally sharp or clever
clever synonym and definition
astute Adj : intelligent and able to learn things quickly : showing intelligent thinking : funny in a way that shows intelligence
cagey synonym and definition
astute Adj : very clever
doltish antonym and definition
astute Adj describing a stupid person
foolish antonym and definition
astute Adj having or showing a lack of good sense or judgment
vacuous antonym and definition
astute Adj having or showing a lack of intelligence or serious thought : lacking meaning, importance, or substance
sagacity synonym and definition
astute Noun the quality of having or showing an ability to understand difficult ideas and situations and to make good decisions
sanctuary synonym, definition and related phrase
asylum Noun a place where someone or something is protected or given shelter : the protection that is provided by a safe place Seek sanctuary
refuge synonym, definition and related phrase
asylum Noun shelter or protection from danger or trouble : a place that provides shelter or protection take refuge
haven synonym, definition and related phrase
asylum Noun a place where you are protected from danger, trouble, etc.
reparation synonym and definition
atone Noun something that is done or given as a way of correcting a mistake that you have made or a bad situation that you have caused
expiation synonym and definition
atone Noun the act of making atonement 2 : the means by which atonement is made
redress synonym and definition
atone Noun to correct (something that is unfair or wrong)
compensation synonym and definition
atone Noun something that is done or given to make up for damage, trouble, etc. : something good that acts as a balance against something bad or undesirable
penance synonym, definition and related phrase
atone Noun something that you do or are given to do in order to show that you are sad or sorry about doing something wrong
restitution synonym and definition
atone Noun the act of returning something that was lost or stolen to its owner : payment that is made to someone for damage, trouble, etc.
expiate synonym and definition
atone Verb to do something as a way to show that you are sorry about doing something bad
offset synonym and definition
atone Verb something that serves to counterbalance or to compensate for something else;
redeem synonym and definition
atone Verb to make (something that is bad, unpleasant, etc.) better or more acceptable
gruesome synonym and definition
atrocity Adj causing horror or disgust
kindhearted antonym and definition
atrocity Adj having or showing a kind and gentle nature
benevolent antonym and definition
atrocity Adj kind and generous well-meaning and kindly
humane antonym and definition
atrocity Adj kind or gentle to people or animals
irreproachable antonym and definition
atrocity Adj not deserving criticism or blame : having no fault
barbarous synonym and definition
atrocity Adj not polite or proper : very rude or offensive : very cruel and violent
heinous synonym and definition
atrocity Adj very bad or evil : deserving of hate or contempt
horrible synonym and definition
atrocity Adj causing horror : very shocking and upsetting : very bad or unpleasant
grisly synonym and definition
atrocity Adj causing horror or fear : very shocking
sadistic synonym and definition
atrocity Adj enjoyment that someone gets from being violent or cruel or from causing pain;
impeccable antonym and definition
atrocity Adj in accordance with the highest standards of propriety; faultless.
clement antonym and definition
atrocity Adj not too hot or too cold; inclined to be merciful
merciful antonym and definition
atrocity Adj treating people with kindness and forgiveness : not cruel or harsh : having or showing mercy : giving relief from suffering
abominable synonym and definition
atrocity Adj very bad or unpleasant
dreadful synonym and definition
atrocity Adj very bad or unpleasant
outrageous synonym and definition
atrocity Adj very bad or wrong in a way that causes anger : too bad to be accepted or allowed : very strange or unusual : surprising or shocking
unimpeachable antonym and definition
atrocity Adj very reliable and trusted : not able to be doubted or questioned
barbaric synonym and definition
atrocity Adj very rude or offensive : not polite or proper : very cruel
ghastly synonym and definition
atrocity Adj very shocking or horrible : very bad
flawless antonym and definition
atrocity Adj without imperfection
outrage synonym and definition
atrocity Noun extreme anger : a strong feeling of unhappiness because of something bad, hurtful, or morally wrong : something that hurts people or is morally wrong
enormity synonym and definition
atrocity Noun a shocking, evil, or immoral act : great evil or wickedness : great size
kindness antonym and definition
atrocity noun : the quality or state of being kind : a kind act
act of charity antonym and definition
atrocity noun The practice of charity means the voluntary giving of help to those in need, as a humanitarian act.
good deed antonym and definition
atrocity noun a good act
enlargement antonym and definition
attrition noun the act of making something larger or of becoming larger : a larger copy of a photograph
gung ho synonym and definition
avid Adj extremely excited and enthusiastic about doing something
real synonym and definition
authentic Adj actually existing or happening : not imaginary : not fake, false, or artificial : important and deserving to be regarded or treated in a serious way
legitimate synonym and definition
authentic Adj allowed according to rules or laws : real, accepted, or official : fair or reasonable
fishy antonym and definition
authentic Adj causing doubt or suspicion : likely to be bad, untrue, dishonest, etc.
indubitable synonym and definition
authentic Adj certainly true : not able to be doubted
indisputable synonym and definition
authentic Adj impossible to question or doubt : not disputable
counterfeit antonym and definition
authentic Adj made to look like an exact copy of something in order to trick people
bogus antonym and definition
authentic Adj not real or genuine : fake or false
phony antonym and definition
authentic Adj not true, real, or genuine : intended to make someone think something that is not true
apocryphal antonym and definition
authentic Adj well-known but probably not true
spurious antonym and definition
authentic Adj : not genuine, sincere, or authentic : based on false ideas or bad reasoning
actual synonym and definition
authentic Adj : real and not merely possible or imagined : existing in fact : known to be correct or precise : not false or apparent
forged antonym and definition
authentic Adj : to make or imitate falsely especially with intent to defraud :
veritable synonym and definition
authentic Adj : true or real
true synonym and definition
authentic Adj agreeing with the facts : not false : real or genuine : having all the expected or necessary qualities of a specifed type of person or thing
untrustworthy antonym and definition
authentic Adj not able to be relied on to do or provide what is needed or right : not deserving of trust
fake antonym and definition
authentic Adj not true or real : meant to look real or genuine but not real or genuine
fraudulent antonym and definition
authentic Adj obtained, done by, or involving deception, especially criminal deception.
bona fide synonym and definition
authentic Adj real or genuine
dubious antonym and definition
authentic Adj unsure or uncertain : feeling doubt about something : causing doubt, uncertainty, or suspicion : likely to be bad or wrong
niggardly synonym and definition
avarice Adj hating to spend money : very small in amount
stingy synonym and definition
avarice Adj not liking or wanting to give or spend money : not generous : small in size or amount
tightfisted synonym and definition
avarice Adj not wanting to give or spend money : stingy or cheap
miserly synonym and definition
avarice Adj : hating to spend money : very small or too small amount
rapacious synonym and definition
avarice Adj always wanting more money, possessions, etc. : wanting more than is needed or deserved
covetous synonym and definition
avarice Adj feeling or showing a very strong desire for something that you do not have and especially for something that belongs to someone else
acquisitive synonym and definition
avarice Adj having a strong desire to own or acquire more things
greedy synonym and definition
avarice Adj having or showing a selfish desire to have more of something (such as money or food) : having greed : very eager to have something
grasping synonym and definition
avarice Adj wanting money and possessions too much
parsimony synonym and definition
avarice noun the quality of being very unwilling to spend money
cupidity synonym and definition
avarice noun : a strong desire for money or possessions
acquisitiveness synonym and definition
avarice noun : having a strong desire to own or acquire more things
niggardliness synonym and definition
avarice noun The quality of hating to spend money
rapacity synonym and definition
avarice noun the quality of always wanting more money, possessions, etc. : wanting more than is needed or deserved
miserliness synonym and definition
avarice noun the quality of hating to spend money
covetousness synonym and definition
avarice noun feeling or showing a very strong desire for something that you do not have and especially for something that belongs to someone else
insatiable synonym and definition
avid Adj always wanting more : not able to be satisfied
voracious synonym and definition
avid Adj excessively eager
keen synonym and definition
avid Adj having or showing an ability to think clearly and to understand what is not obvious or simple about something : very strong and sensitive : highly developed : very excited about and interested in something
ardent synonym and definition
avid Adj having or showing very strong feelings
fanatical synonym and definition
avid Adj marked by excessive enthusiasm and often intense uncritical devotion
apathetic antonym and definition
avid Adj not having or showing much emotion or interest
frustrate synonym and definition
baffle verb to cause (someone) to feel angry, discouraged, or upset because of not being able to do something : to prevent (efforts, plans, etc.) from succeeding : to keep (someone) from doing something
perplex synonym and definition
baffle verb to confuse (someone) very much
thwart synonym and definition
baffle verb to prevent (someone) from doing something or to stop (something) from happening
stymie synonym and definition
baffle verb to stop (someone) from doing something or to stop (something) from happening
balk synonym and definition
baffle verb to suddenly show that you do not want to do something : to refuse to do what someone else wants you to do
commonplace synonym and definition
banal Adj an idea, expression, remark, etc., that is not new or interesting : something that happens or appears in many places and is not unusual
prosaic synonym and definition
banal Adj dull or ordinary
piquant antonym and definition
banal Adj having a pleasant, spicy taste : interesting and exciting
innovative antonym and definition
banal Adj introducing or using new ideas or methods : having new ideas about how something can be done
stereotyped synonym and definition
banal Adj lacking originality or individuality
corny synonym and definition
banal Adj mawkishly old-fashioned : tiresomely simple and sentimental
fresh antonym and definition
banal Adj newly produced, made, gathered, etc. : not preserved by being frozen, canned, etc. : not old, spoiled, etc. : clean and pure
jejune synonym and definition
banal Adj not interesting : too simple
vapid synonym and definition
banal Adj not lively or interesting : dull or boring
scintillating antonym and definition
banal Adj very clever, amusing, and interesting
original antonym and definition
banal Adj : a person who is different from other people in an appealing or interesting way
provocative antonym and definition
banal Adj causing discussion, thought, argument, etc.
fatuous synonym and definition
banal Adj foolish or stupid
novel antonym and definition
banal Adj new and different from what has been known before
trite synonym and definition
banal Adj not interesting or effective because of being used too often : not fresh or original
insipid synonym and definition
banal Adj not interesting or exciting : dull or boring
pedestrian synonym and definition
banal Adj not interesting or unusual
hackneyed synonym and definition
banal Adj not interesting, funny, etc., because of being used too often : not fresh or original
striking antonym and definition
banal Adj unusual or extreme in a way that attracts attention : very attractive especially in an unusual or interesting way
bromide synonym and definition
banal noun a statement that is intended to make people feel happier or calmer but that is not original or effective
originality antonym and definition
banal noun the quality of being new and different in a good and appealing way
novelty antonym and definition
banal noun the quality or state of being new, different, and interesting : something that is new or unusual : something novel
cliche synonym and definition
banal noun a phrase or expression that has been used so often that it is no longer original or interesting : something that is so commonly used in books, stories, etc., that it is no longer effective
platitude synonym and definition
banal noun a statement that expresses an idea that is not new
triteness synonym and definition
banal noun the quality of being not interesting or effective because of being used too often : not fresh or original
insipidity synonym and definition
banal noun the quality of being not interesting or exciting : dull or boring
define one-upmanship
behavior in which someone tries to get an advantage by doing, saying, or having better things than someone else
bellicose synonym and definition
belligerent Adj having or showing a tendency to argue or fight
combative synonym and definition
belligerent Adj having or showing a willingness to fight or argue
quarrelsome synonym and definition
belligerent Adj ready or likely to argue or disagree
grotesque synonym and definition
bizarre Adj : very strange or ugly in a way that is not normal or natural : extremely different from what is expected or usual
conservative antonym and definition
bizarre Adj believing in the value of established and traditional practices in politics and society : relating to or supporting political conservatism
straight antonym and definition
bizarre Adj lying along or holding to a direct or proper course or method
unconventional synonym and definition
bizarre Adj not: used and accepted by most people: not usual or traditional : not of a kind that has been around for a long time and is considered to be usual or typical : not common and ordinary: unusual
singular synonym and definition
bizarre Adj strange or odd
odd synonym and definition
bizarre Adj strange or unusual : different from what is normal or expected : happening in a way that is not planned or regular
queer synonym and definition
bizarre Adjdiffering in some odd way from what is usual or normal
calming synonym and definition
bland Adj a quiet and peaceful state or condition : a peaceful mental or emotional state
spicy antonym and definition
bland Adj exciting and somewhat shocking
sprightly antonym and definition
bland Adj full of life and energy
colorful antonym and definition
bland Adj having a bright color or a lot of different colors : full of color : interesting or exciting
piquant antonym and definition (2)
bland Adj having a pleasant, spicy taste : interesting and exciting
nondescript synonym and definition
bland Adj not easily described : having no special or interesting qualities, parts, etc. : typical and uninteresting
dull synonym and definition
bland Adj not exciting or interesting
vapid synonym and definition (2)
bland Adj not lively or interesting : dull or boring
irritating antonym and definition
bland Adj to make (someone) impatient, angry, or annoyed : to make (part of your body) sore or painful
harsh antonym and definition
bland Adj unpleasant and difficult to accept or experience : having an unpleasant or harmful effect because of great strength or force : too intense or powerful : severe or cruel : not kind
lively antonym and definition
bland Adj very active and energetic : full of energy, excitement, or feeling : full of movement or activity
scintillating antonym and definition (2)
bland Adj very clever, amusing, and interesting
pungent antonym and definition
bland Adj : having a strong, sharp taste or smell : having a strong effect on the mind because of being clever and direct
run-of-the-mill synonym and definition
bland Adj average or ordinary
boring synonym and definition
bland Adj dull and uninteresting : causing boredom
racy antonym and definition
bland Adj full of zest or vigor
lifeless synonym and definition
bland Adj lacking spirit, interest, or energy
unexciting synonym and definition
bland Adj not causing feelings of interest and enthusiasm : not causing excitement
insipid synonym and definition (2)
bland Adj not interesting or exciting : dull or boring
nonirritating synonym and definition
bland Adj not making (someone) impatient, angry, or annoyed not making (part of your body) sore or painful
mediocre synonym and definition
bland Adj not very good
soothing synonym and definition
bland Adj producing feelings of comfort or relief
florid antonym and definition
bland Adj very fancy or too fancy : having a red or reddish color
depressing synonym and definition
bleak Adj causing someone to feel sad or without hope : causing depression
dreary synonym and definition
bleak Adj causing unhappiness or sad feelings : not warm, cheerful, etc.
drab synonym and definition
bleak Adj characterized by dullness and monotony
joyous antonym and definition
bleak Adj feeling, causing, or showing great happiness
joyful antonym and definition
bleak Adj feeling, causing, or showing great happiness : full of joy
positive antonym and definition
bleak Adj good or useful
verdant antonym and definition
bleak Adj green with growing plants
lush antonym and definition
bleak Adj having a lot of full and healthy growth : covered with healthy green plants : having a pleasingly rich quality
harsh synonym and definition
bleak Adj having an unpleasant or harmful effect because of great strength or force : too intense or powerful : severe or cruel : not kind
sunny antonym and definition
bleak Adj having plenty of bright sunlight : cheerful and happy
barren synonym and definition
bleak Adj having very few plants : not suitable for plants : not producing fruit or not able to produce fruit
temperate antonym and definition
bleak Adj marked by moderation
dour antonym and definition
blithe Adj serious and unfriendly : silent and gloomy
grim synonym and definition
bleak Adj : unpleasant or shocking to see or think about : causing feelings of sadness or worry : gloomy or depressing : having a very serious appearance or manner
bright antonym and definition
bleak Adj auspicious, promising
rosy antonym and definition
bleak Adj characterized by or tending to promote optimism
balmy antonym and definition
bleak Adj of air, weather, etc. : warm, calm, and pleasant
dour synonym and definition
bleak Adj serious and unfriendly : silent and gloomy
somber synonym and definition
bleak Adj so shaded as to be dark and gloomy
eyesore synonym and definition
blight noun an ugly object or building
stimulus antonym and definition
blight noun something that causes something else to happen, develop, or become more active
bane synonym and definition
blight noun : a source of harm or ruin
plague synonym and definition
blight noun a large number of harmful or annoying things
scourge synonym and definition
blight noun someone or something that causes a great amount of trouble or suffering
stimulant antonym and definition
blight noun something that causes more activity
blast synonym and definition
blight verb a sudden pernicious influence or effect
efface synonym and definition
blight verb to cause (something) to fade or disappear
devastate synonym and definition
blight verb to destroy much or most of (something) : to cause great damage or harm to (something)
wither synonym and definition
blight verb to lose vitality, force, or freshness
dash synonym and definition
blight verb : ruin, destroy
shrivel synonym and definition
blight verb to become reduced to inanition, helplessness, or inefficiency
nourish antonym and definition
blight verb to cause (something) to develop or grow stronger
ruin synonym and definition
blight verb to damage (something) so badly that it is no longer useful, valuable, enjoyable, etc. : to spoil or destroy (something)
nip synonym and definition
blight verb to destroy the growth, progress, or fulfillment of
foster antonym and definition
blight verb to help (something) grow or develop
promote antonym and definition
blight verb to help (something) happen, develop, or increase
stimulate antonym and definition
blight verb to make (something) more active : to cause or encourage (something) to happen or develop
frustrate synonym and definition
blight verb to prevent (efforts, plans, etc.) from succeeding : to keep (someone) from doing something
foil synonym and definition
blight verb to prevent from attaining an end : defeat
jovial synonym and definition
blithe Adj full of happiness and joy
sprightly synonym and definition
blithe Adj full of life and energy
indifferent synonym and definition
blithe Adj not interested in or concerned about something : neither good nor bad : not very good
happy-go-lucky synonym and definition
blithe Adj not worried about anything
morbid antonym and definition
blithe Adj relating to unpleasant subjects (such as death) : not healthy or normal
nonchalant synonym and definition
blithe Adj relaxed and calm in a way that shows that you do not care or are not worried about anything
gloomy antonym and definition
blithe Adj somewhat dark : not bright or sunny : causing feelings of sadness : not hopeful or promising : sad or depressed
morose antonym and definition
blithe Adj very sad or unhappy
saturnine antonym and definition
blithe Adj very serious and unhappy
solemn antonym and definition
blithe Adj very serious or formal in manner, behavior, or expression : sad and serious : done or made sincerely
melancholy antonym and definition
blithe Adj : a sad mood or feeling
jolly synonym and definition
blithe Adj : full of happiness and joy : happy and cheerful : very pleasant or enjoyable
jocund synonym and definition
blithe Adj : marked by or suggestive of high spirits and lively mirthfulness
mirthful synonym and definition
blithe Adj full of happiness and laughter
buoyant synonym and definition
blithe Adj happy and confident
lighthearted synonym and definition
blithe Adj having or showing a cheerful and happy nature : not serious
blase synonym and definition
blithe Adj having or showing a lack of excitement or interest in something especially because it is very familiar
light-minded synonym and definition
blithe Adj lacking in seriousness : frivolous
heedless synonym and definition
blithe Adj not paying careful attention
pensive antonym and definition
blithe Adj quietly sad or thoughtful
mainstay synonym and definition
buttress Noun a very important part of something : something or someone that provides support and makes it possible for something to exist or succeed
prop synonym and definition
buttress Noun something that props or sustains : support
pillar synonym and definition
buttress Noun : a large post that helps to hold up something (such as a roof) : someone who is an important member of a group : a basic fact, idea, or principle of something
cornerstone synonym and definition
buttress Noun something of basic importance
brace synonym and definition
buttress noun and verb A: (Noun): a part that adds physical strength or support B: (Verb) to give added physical support or strength to (something)
bolster synonym and definition
buttress verb to make (something) stronger or better : to give support to (something)
shore up synonym and definition
buttress verb to support or help (something)
prop up synonym and definition
buttress verb : to give help, encouragement, or support to (someone)
strengthen synonym and definition
buttress verb : to make (someone or something) stronger, more forceful, more effective, etc. : to become stronger, more forceful, more effective, etc.
weaken antonym and definition
buttress verb : to make (something or someone) weaker, less forceful, less effective, etc. : to become weaker, less forceful, less effective, etc.
impair antonym and definition
buttress verb : to make (something) weaker or worse
undermine antonym and definition
buttress verb to make (someone or something) weaker or less effective usually in a secret or gradual way
induce synonym and definition
cajole verb : to cause (someone or something) to do something : to cause (something) to happen or exist
deter antonym and definition
cajole verb : to cause (someone) to decide not to do something : to prevent (something) from happening
coax synonym and definition
cajole verb : to influence or persuade (a person or animal) to do something by talking in a gentle and friendly way : to get (something) by talking in a gentle and friendly way : to cause (something) to do something by making a careful and continual effort
discourage antonym and definition
cajole verb : to make (someone) less determined, hopeful, or confident : to make (something) less likely to happen : to try to make people not want to do (something)
inveigle synonym and definition
cajole verb : to persuade (someone) to do something in a clever or deceptive way : to get (something) in a clever or deceptive way
beguile synonym and definition
cajole verb : to trick or deceive (someone) : to attract or interest someone
dissuade antonym and definition
cajole verb to convince (someone) not to do something
wheedle synonym and definition
cajole verb to persuade someone to do something or to give you something by saying nice things
flatter synonym and definition
cajole verb to praise excessively especially from motives of self-interest
hard-boiled synonym and definition
callous Adj not feeling or showing emotions such as affection or kindness : emotionally tough
thin-skinned antonym and definition
callous Adj : easily bothered by criticism or insults : very sensitive
tenderhearted antonym and definition
callous Adj : easily moved to love, pity, or sorrow : compassionate, impressionable
sensitive antonym and definition
callous Adj : easily upset by the things that people think or say about you : aware of and understanding the feelings of other people
compassionate antonym and definition
callous Adj : feeling or showing concern for someone who is sick, hurt, poor, etc. : having or showing compassion
softhearted antonym and definition
callous Adj : having feelings of kindness and sympathy for other people
kindhearted antonym and definition
callous Adj : having or showing a kind and gentle nature
hard-hearted synonym and definition
callous Adj : having or showing no kindness or sympathy for other people
indifferent synonym and definition
callous Adj : not interested in or concerned about something : neither good nor bad : not very good
hard-nosed synonym and definition
callous Adj : very tough : not influenced by emotions : practical and realistic
thick-skinned synonym and definition
callous Adj not easily bothered by criticism or insults : not sensitive
unsympathetic synonym and definition
callous Adj not feeling or showing concern about someone who is in a bad situation : not having or showing feelings of sympathy
unresponsive synonym and definition
callous Adj not reacting in a desired or positive way
adulation antonym and definition
calumny noun excessive or slavish admiration or flattery
lie synonym and definition
calumny noun 1 : to make an untrue statement with intent to deceive 2 : to create a false or misleading impression
slur synonym and definition
calumny noun 1 a : an insulting or disparaging remark or innuendo : aspersion b : a shaming or degrading effect : stain, stigma
mordancy synonym and definition
caustic noun 1 : a biting and caustic quality of style : incisiveness 2 : a sharply critical or bitter quality of thought or feeling
acerbity synonym and definition
caustic noun the quality of expressing harsh or sharp criticism in a clever way
Comstockery synonym and definition
censor noun strict censorship of materials considered obscene
Grundyism synonym and definition
censor noun a prudish adherence to conventionality, especially in personal behavior.
bowdlerizer synonym and definition
censor noun one who changes (a book, play, movie, etc.) by removing parts that could offend people
expurgator synonym and definition
censor noun someone who to changes (a written work) by removing parts that might offend people
expurgate synonym and definition
censor verb to change (a written work) by removing parts that might offend people
expunge synonym and definition
censor verb to remove (something) completely
excise synonym and definition
censor verb to remove by excision : resect
bowdlerize synonym and definition
censor verb to change (a book, play, movie, etc.) by removing parts that could offend people
delete synonym and definition
censor verb to remove (something, such as words, pictures, or computer files) from a document, recording, computer, etc.
blameworthy synonym and definition
censure Adj deserving blame : bad or wrong
reprehensible synonym and definition
censure Adj very bad : deserving very strong criticism
meritorious antonym and definition
censure Adj : deserving honor or praise
admirable antonym and definition
censure Adj : deserving to be admired : very good
laudable antonym and definition
censure Adj deserving praise
praiseworthy antonym and definition
censure Adj deserving praise : worthy of praise
creditable antonym and definition
censure Adj good enough to be praised
approval antonym and definition
censure noun permission to do something : acceptance of an idea, action, plan, etc.
approbation antonym and definition
censure noun praise or approval
commendation antonym and definition
censure noun the act of praising or approving of someone or something
extol antonym and definition
censure noun to praise (someone or something) highly
reproof synonym and definition
censure noun : criticism or blame : a statement that criticizes or blames someone
laud antonym and definition
censure noun praise, acclaim
applaud antonym and definition
censure noun to express approval of or support for (something or someone)
commend antonym and definition
censure noun to praise (someone or something) in a serious and often public way
reprimand synonym and definition
censure noun and verb a severe or formal reproof to speak in an angry and critical way to (someone who has done something wrong, disobeyed an order, etc.)
rebuke synonym and definition
censure noun and verb an expression of strong disapproval to speak in an angry and critical way to (someone)
praise antonym and definition
censure noun and verb spoken or written words about the good qualities of someone or something : an expression of approval for someone or something to say or write good things about (someone or something) : to express approval of (someone or something)
reprove synonym and definition
censure verb to criticize or correct (someone) usually in a gentle way
condemn synonym and definition
censure verb to say in a strong and definite way that someone or something is bad or wrong
chastise synonym and definition
censure verb to criticize (someone) harshly for doing something wrong
upbraid synonym and definition
censure verb to speak in an angry or critical way to (someone who has done something wrong)
reprehend synonym and definition
censure verb to voice disapproval of : censure
exultation antonym and definition
chagrin noun a feeling of great happiness and excitement : an exultant feeling
annoyance synonym and definition
chagrin noun slight anger : the feeling of being annoyed : something that causes feelings of slight anger or irritation : a source of annoyance
jubilation antonym and definition
chagrin noun : great happiness or joy
vexation synonym and definition
chagrin noun : the state of being worried or annoyed : irritation or annoyance : something that worries or annoys you
mortification synonym and definition
chagrin noun a : a sense of humiliation and shame caused by something that wounds one's pride or self-respect b : the cause of such humiliation or shame
dissociate oneself from antonym and definition
collaborate verb to separate oneself from something
exhilaration antonym and definition
chagrin noun a strong feeling of happiness : great pleasure or satisfaction : something that makes you very happy : something that gives you great pleasure or satisfaction
elation antonym and definition
chagrin noun the quality or state of being filled with joy or pride
delight antonym and definition
chagrin noun and verb a strong feeling of happiness : great pleasure or satisfaction to make (someone) very happy : to give (someone) great pleasure or satisfaction
vex synonym and definition
chagrin verb to annoy or worry (someone)
mortify synonym and definition
chagrin verb to cause (someone) to feel very embarrassed and foolish
elate antonym and definition
chagrin verb to cause (someone) to feel very happy and excited
exult antonym and definition
chagrin verb to feel or show great happiness : to say (something) in a very excited and happy way
exhilarate antonym and definition
chagrin verb : to cause (someone) to feel very happy and excited
abash synonym and definition
chagrin verb : to destroy the self-possession or self-confidence of : disconcert
annoy synonym and definition
chagrin verb to cause (someone) to feel slightly angry
humbug synonym and definition
charlatan noun language or behavior that is false or meant to deceive people : someone or something that is not honest or true
fraud synonym and definition
charlatan noun : a person who pretends to be what he or she is not in order to trick people
mountebank synonym and definition
charlatan noun a dishonest person : a person who tricks and cheats other people
impostor synonym and definition
charlatan noun a person who deceives others by pretending to be someone else
quack synonym and definition
charlatan noun a pretender to medical skill
faker synonym and definition
charlatan noun not true or real : meant to look real or genuine but not real or genuine
Define chew the fat
chat in a leisurely way, especially at length.
habitual synonym and definition
chronic Adj : done regularly or repeatedly : doing something regularly or repeatedly
inveterate synonym and definition
chronic Adj always or often doing something specified : always or often happening or existing
deep-rooted synonym and definition
chronic Adj existing for a long time and very difficult to change : firmly established
ingrained synonym and definition
chronic Adj existing for a long time and very difficult to change : firmly established
long-lasting synonym and definition
chronic Adj existing or continuing for a long time
recurrent synonym and definition
chronic Adj happening or appearing again and again
ephemeral antonym and definition
chronic Adj lasting a very short time
evanescent antonym and definition
chronic Adj lasting a very short time
transitory antonym and definition
chronic Adj lasting only for a short time
transient antonym and definition
chronic Adj not lasting long
confirmed synonym and definition
chronic Adj not likely to change
continual synonym and definition
chronic Adj : happening without interruption : not stopping or ending : happening again and again within short periods of time
perennial synonym and definition
chronic Adj existing or continuing in the same way for a long time
constant synonym and definition
chronic Adj happening all the time or very often over a period of time
occasional antonym and definition
chronic Adj happening or done sometimes but not often : not happening or done in a regular or frequent way
prolonged synonym and definition
chronic Adj made to last or continue for a longer time
sporadic antonym and definition
chronic Adj occurring occasionally, singly, or in irregular or random instances
rambling synonym and definition
circuitous Adj : to walk or go from one place to another place without a specific goal, purpose, or direction : to go from one subject to another without any clear purpose or direction
meandering synonym and definition
circuitous Adj a winding path or course; especially : labyrinth
digressive synonym and definition
circuitous Adj characterized by the act or an instance of digressing in a discourse or other usually organized literary work
straightforward antonym and definition
circuitous Adj easy to do or understand : not complicated : honest and open
undeviating antonym and definition
circuitous Adj keeping a true course
unveering antonym and definition
circuitous Adj not changing direction or course
unswerving antonym and definition
circuitous Adj not changing or becoming weaker : always staying strong
oblique synonym and definition
circuitous Adj not direct : not stated directly
periphrastic synonym and definition
circuitous Adj relating to or characterized by use of a longer phrasing in place of a possible shorter form of expression
circumlocutory synonym and definition
circuitous Adj the use of many words to say something that could be said more clearly and directly by using fewer words
winding synonym and definition
circuitous Adj a curved or sinuous course, line, or progress
sinuous synonym and definition
circuitous Adj having many twists and turns
devious synonym and definition
circuitous Adj not straight or direct : having many twists and turns
direct antonym and definition
circuitous Adj to cause to turn, move, or point undeviatingly or to follow a straight course
comply with antonym and definition
circumvent verb (of a person or group) act in accordance with a wish or command.
bypass synonym and definition
circumvent verb a road that goes around a blocked or very crowded area
abide by antonym and definition
circumvent verb to accept or bear (someone or something bad, unpleasant, etc.)
respect antonym and definition
circumvent verb to act in a way which shows that you are aware of (someone's rights, wishes, etc.)
skirt synonym and definition
circumvent verb to avoid (something) especially because it is difficult or will cause problems
sidestep synonym and definition
circumvent verb to avoid answering or dealing with (something) directly
obey antonym and definition
circumvent verb to do what someone tells you to do or what a rule, law, etc., says you must do
dodge synonym and definition
circumvent verb to get away from or avoid (someone or something) in a skillful or dishonest way
duck synonym and definition
circumvent verb to lower your head or body suddenly to avoid being seen or hit
evade synonym and definition
circumvent verb to stay away from (someone or something) : to avoid (someone or something)
observe antonym and definition
circumvent verb to watch and sometimes also listen to (someone or something) carefully
manifest antonym and definition
clandestine Adj able to be seen : clearly shown or visible : easy to understand or recognize
overt antonym and definition
clandestine Adj easily seen : not secret or hidden
obvious antonym and definition
clandestine Adj easy to see or notice
stealthy synonym and definition
clandestine Adj quiet and secret in order to avoid being noticed
furtive synonym and definition
clandestine Adj : done in a quiet and secret way to avoid being noticed
undisguised antonym and definition
clandestine Adj : not concealed or hidden
open antonym and definition
clandestine Adj completely free from concealment : exposed to general view or knowledge
avowed antonym and definition
clandestine Adj declared or stated in an open and public way
surreptitious synonym and definition
clandestine Adj done in a secret way
underhand(ed) synonym and definition
clandestine Adj in a private or secret manner
covert synonym and definition
clandestine Adj made, shown, or done in a way that is not easily seen or noticed : secret or hidden
constrain synonym and definition
coerce verb : to limit or restrict (something or someone) : to use pressure to force (someone) to do something
bulldoze synonym and definition
coerce verb to force (something that others might not want to happen) to be done or accepted in an aggressive or harsh way
dragoon synonym and definition
coerce verb to force into submission or compliance especially by violent measures
cow synonym and definition
coerce verb to make (someone) too afraid to do something
pressure synonym and definition
coerce verb to use pressure to force or try to force (someone) to do something
browbeat synonym and definition
coerce verb to use threats or angry speech to make (someone) do or accept something
compel synonym and definition
coerce verb : to force (someone) to do something : to make (something) happen : to force (something)
hector synonym and definition
coerce verb to intimidate or harass by bluster or personal pressure
invalid antonym and definition
cogent adj being without foundation or force in fact, truth, or law
apropos synonym and definition
cogent adj by way of interjection or further comment : with regard to the present topic
sound synonym and definition
cogent adj free from mistakes : showing good judgment
weak antonym and definition
cogent adj having little physical power or ability : not strong
powerful synonym and definition
cogent adj : having the ability to control or influence people or things : having a strong effect on someone or something : having or producing a lot of physical strength or force
pertinent synonym and definition
cogent adj : relating to the thing that is being thought about or discussed
compelling synonym and definition
cogent adj : very interesting : able to capture and hold your attention : capable of causing someone to believe or agree : strong and forceful : causing you to feel that you must do something
persuasive synonym and definition
cogent adj able to cause people to do or believe something : able to persuade people
frivolous antonym and definition
cogent adj not important : not deserving serious attention
effective synonym and definition
cogent adj producing a result that is wanted : having an intended effect
relevant synonym and definition
cogent adj relating to a subject in an appropriate way
valid synonym and definition
cogent adj well-grounded or justifiable : being at once relevant and meaningful
disjointed antonym and definition
cohere adj lacking order and organization
incoherent antonym and definition
cohere adj not able to talk or express yourself in a clear way that can be easily understood : not logical or well-organized : not easy to understand
incoherence antonym and definition
cohere noun : the quality or state of being incoherent 2 : something that is incoherent
disperse antonym and definition
cohere verb Popularity: Top 30% of words Simple Definition of disperse : to go or move in different directions : to spread apart
fall apart antonym and definition
cohere verb to break into parts in usually a sudden and unexpected way
come asunder antonym and definition
cohere verb to break into parts or pieces
come apart antonym and definition
cohere verb to break into parts or pieces : fail or be in very bad condition
combine synonym and definition
cohere verb to bring into such close relationship as to obscure individual characters : merge
scatter antonym and definition
cohere verb to cause (things or people) to separate and go in different directions : to separate and go in different directions
separate antonym and definition
cohere verb to cause (two or more people or things) to stop being together, joined, or connected : to make (people or things) separate
gel synonym and definition
cohere verb to change into a gel : to change into a thick substance that is like jelly
diverge antonym and definition
cohere verb to split and move out in different directions from a single point : to be or become different
coalesce synonym and definition
cohere verb : to come together to form one group or mass
dissipate antonym and definition
cohere verb : to separate into parts and disappear or go away
diffuse antonym and definition
cohere verb to spread out : to move freely throughout a large area
team effort synonym and definition
collaborate noun cooperative or coordinated effort on the part of a group of persons acting together as a team or in the interests of a common cause.
coworker synonym and definition
collaborate noun a person with whom one works, typically someone in a similar role or at a similar level within an organization.
joint effort synonym and definition
collaborate noun Something done by two or more people or groups working togethe
fifth columnist synonym and definition
collaborate noun a group of secret sympathizers or supporters of an enemy that engage in espionage or sabotage within defense lines or national borders
quisling synonym and definition
collaborate noun a person who helps an enemy that has taken control of his or her country
fellow traveler synonym and definition
collaborate noun a person who travels with another. a person who is not a member of a particular group or political party (especially the Communist Party), but who sympathizes with the group's aims and policies.
colleague synonym and definition
collaborate noun a person who works with you : a fellow worker
partnership synonym and definition
collaborate noun the state of being partners : a relationship between partners
partner synonym and definition
collaborate noun one of two or more people, businesses, etc., that work together or do business together : someone who participates in an activity or game with another person
take leave of antonym and definition
collaborate verb Depart from, say good-bye to
part company with antonym and definition
collaborate verb cease to be together; go in different directions.
join forces synonym and definition
collaborate verb to begin working together in order to achieve something
pool one's efforts synonym and definition
collaborate verb to combine a group's work
team up synonym and definition
collaborate verb to join with someone to work together
conspire synonym and definition
collaborate verb to secretly plan with someone to do something that is harmful or illegal : to happen in a way that produces bad or unpleasant results
shoot-out synonym and definition
confrontation noun a fight in which people shoot guns at each other until one side is killed or defeated a competition between two people or groups that remains very close until the end
showdown synonym and definition
confrontation noun meeting, argument, fight, etc., that will finally settle a disagreement between people or groups : an important game or competition
face-off synonym and definition
confrontation noun a meeting of opponents : a conflict or fight
inference synonym and definition
conjecture noun : the act or process of reaching a conclusion about something from known facts or evidence : a conclusion or opinion that is formed because of known facts or evidence
theory synonym and definition
conjecture noun an idea or set of ideas that is intended to explain facts or events : an idea that is suggested or presented as possibly true but that is not known or proven to be true : the general principles or ideas that relate to a particular subject
supposition synonym and definition
conjecture noun an idea or theory that you believe is true even though you do not have proof
speculation synonym and definition
conjecture noun ideas or guesses about something that is not known
fact antonym and definition
conjecture noun something that truly exists or happens : something that has actual existence : a true piece of information
suspicion synonym and definition
conjecture noun the act or an instance of suspecting something wrong without proof or on slight evidence : mistrust
presumption synonym and definition
conjecture noun a belief that something is true even though it has not been proved : willingness to do something without the right or permission to do it
certainty antonym and definition
conjecture noun the state of being or feeling certain about something : something that is certain : a fact about which there is no doubt
surmise synonym and definition
conjecture noun and verb a thought or idea based on scanty evidence : conjecture
infer synonym and definition
conjecture verb to form (an opinion) from evidence : to reach (a conclusion) based on known facts : to hint or suggest (something)
suspect synonym and definition
conjecture verb to imagine (one) to be guilty or culpable on slight evidence or without proof
demonstrate antonym and definition
conjecture verb to prove (something) by showing examples of it : to show evidence of (something) : to prove (something) by being an example of it : to be evidence of (something)
substantiate antonym and definition
conjecture verb to prove the truth of (something)
speculate synonym and definition
conjecture verb to think about something and make guesses about it : to form ideas or theories about something usually when there are many things not known about it
suppose synonym and definition
conjecture verb to think of (something) as happening or being true in order to imagine what might happen : to believe (something) to be true : to believe (something) to be possible
theorize synonym and definition
conjecture verb to think of or suggest ideas about what is possibly true or real : to form or suggest a theory about something
presume synonym and definition
conjecture verb to think that (something) is true without knowing that it is true : to accept legally or officially that something is true until it is proved not true : to do (something) that you do not have the right or permission to do
define featherbedding
deliberately limit production or retain excess staff in (a business) in order to create jobs or prevent unemployment, typically as a result of a union contract.
averse definition and root
disinclined, reluctant, or opposed to
What is the difference between envious and enviable?
envious Adjective (en-adj) Feeling or exhibiting envy; jealously desiring the excellence or good fortune of another; maliciously grudging enviable Adjective (en-adj) Arousing or likely to arouse envy.
executive privilege definition
exemption from legally enforced disclosure of communications within the executive branch of government when such disclosure would adversely affect the functions and decision-making processes of the executive branch
dogmatic definition and origin
expressing personal opinions or beliefs as if they are certainly correct and cannot be doubted
colossal definition and origin
extremely large From the Greek legendary bronze statue of Helios at Rhodes
define sportsmanship
fair play, respect for opponents, and polite behavior by someone who is competing in a sport or other competitio
mercurial definition and origin
fickle and changeable From the Roman messenger god Mercury. Although the adjective initially meant "born under the planet Mercury," it came to mean also "having qualities of eloquence, ingenuity, or thievishness attributed to the god Mercury or the influence of the planet Mercury," and then "unpredictably changeable."
define bunkum
foolish or untrue words or ideas
Define carte blanche
full power to act as one sees fit
What does Ced mean?
go, yield Ex: intercede, precedent, cession
pork barrel definition
government projects that benefit people in a particular part of the country and that are done in order to help the political careers of elected officials
Define macho
having or showing qualities (such as very noticeable strength and aggression) that agree with traditional ideas about what men are like : manly or masculine in a very noticeable or exaggerated way
propaganda
ideas or statements that are often false or exaggerated and that are spread in order to help a cause, a political leader, a government, etc.
verbatim
in the exact words : word for word
in the aggregate
in total; as a whole.
Define spiel
intransitive verb 1: to play music 2: to talk volubly or extravagantly transitive verb : to utter, express, or describe volubly or extravagantly
jovial definition and origin
jolly or merry From the chief Roman god JUpiter, who was considered the source of joy and happiness.
lackluster
lacking excitement or interest
misanthropic definition and origin
marked by a hatred or contempt for humankind
define collective bargaining
negotiation of wages and other conditions of employment by an organized body of employees.
Define incommunicado
not able to communicate with other people : in a situation or state that does not allow communication with other people
define hackneyed
not interesting, funny, etc., because of being used too often : not fresh or original
amicus curiae part of speech and definition.
noun (literally, "friend of the court) one (as a professional person or organization) that is not a party to a particular litigation but that is permitted by the court to advise it in respect to some matter of law that directly affects the case in question Frequently, a person or group who is not a party to a lawsuit, but has a strong interest in the matter, will petition the court for permission to submit a brief in the action with the intent of influencing the court's decision.
a police state definition.
noun a country in which the activities of the people are strictly controlled by the government with the help of a police force
neoconservative definition.
noun a former liberal espousing political conservatism : a conservative who advocates the assertive promotion of democracy and United States national interest in international affairs including through military means
mensch definition.
noun a person of integrity and honor menschy
maven definition.
noun a person who knows a lot about a particular subject
klutz definition.
noun a person who often drops things, falls down, etc. : a clumsy person
urban renewal definition.
noun a process by which old buildings or buildings that are in bad condition in part of a city are replaced or repaired
rapprochement definition.
noun the development of friendlier relations between countries or groups of people who have been enemies
status quo part of speech and definition.
noun the existing state of affairs
software definition.
noun the programs that run on a computer and perform certain functions
alma mater part of speech and definition.
noun the school, college, or university that someone attended the song or hymn of a school, college, or university
deficit spending definition.
noun the spending of public funds raised by borrowing rather than by taxation
non sequitur part of speech and definition.
noun "it does not follow" a statement that is not connected in a logical or clear way to anything said before it
quid pro quo part of speech and definition.
noun "something for something" something that is given to you or done for you in return for something you have given to or done for someone else
obiter dictum part of speech and definition.
noun "something said in passing" an incidental and collateral opinion that is uttered by a judge but is not binding : an incidental remark or observation
alter ego part of speech and definition.
noun "the other I" a different version of yourself : a close friend who thinks or feels similarly to the way you think or feel
sine qua non part of speech and definition.
noun "without which nothing" something that is absolutely needed
casus belli part of speech and definition.
noun (Literally, "occasion of war") an event or action that justifies or allegedly justifies a war or conflict
happenstance definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: a chance happening or event. Happen/circumstance
motel definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: a hotel providing travelers with lodging and free parking facilities, typically a roadside hotel having rooms adjacent to an outside parking area or an urban hotel offering parking within the building motor/hotel
heliport definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: a landing place for helicopters, often on the roof of a building or in some other limited area. Helicopter/port
simulcast definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: a program broadcast simultaneously on radio and television, or on more than one station, or in several languages, etc. 2: a closed-circuit television broadcast of an event, as a horse race, while it is taking place. verb (used with object), verb (used without object), simulcast, simulcasted, simulcasting. 3: to broadcast in this manner. simultaneous/broadcast
cablegram definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: a telegram sent by underwater cable. cable/telegram
telethon definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: a television broadcast lasting several hours, especially one soliciting support for a charity. Television/marathon
advertorial definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: an extended newspaper or magazine text advertisement that promotes the advertiser's product or services or special point of view but resembles an editorial in style and layout. advertisement/editorial
elitist definition.
noun 1: leadership or rule by an elite 2: the selectivity of the elite; especially : snobbery 3: consciousness of being or belonging to an elite
smog definition and elements that went into it
noun 1: smoke or other atmospheric pollutants combined with fog in an unhealthy or irritating mixture. 2: photochemical smog. verb (used with object) 3: to cover or envelop with or as if with smog. smoke/fog
bureaucracy part of speech, definition and related forms
noun A complicated system of administrative agencies and officials; the officials themselves. (noun) bureaucrat; (Adj) bureaucratic
demagogue part of speech and definition.
noun A person who uses appeals to emotion or prejudice to influence the people and gain power.
a pluralistic society definition.
noun A pluralistic society is a diverse one, where the people in it believe all kinds of different things and tolerate each other's beliefs even when they don't match their own.
Cabal part of speech and definition.
noun A small group of people who conspire or plot together, often to achieve a political goal.
Attrition part of speech, and definition.
noun A: A gradual wearing down or weakening or resistance resulting from constant friction, pressure, or harassment. B: A gradual, often ntural decrease in size, strength, or number as a result of resignation, retirement, death, or the like.
charlatan part of speech, definition, and related forms
noun Anyone who claims to have skills or knowledge that he/she doesn't possess (noun) charlatanism, charlatanry
realpolitik part of speech and definition.
noun Foreign policy governed by self-interest rather than by ethics or world opinion.
hegemony part of speech and definition.
noun Leadership or dominance, especially of one nation over others.
Bourgeoisie part of speech and definition.
noun The social class between the aristocracy and the working class; the middle class.
proletariat part of speech and definition.
noun The working class, especially in industrialized societies.
bravado part of speech, definition, and related phrases.
noun a boastful or swaggering show of false vreavery; false courage in general
deus ex machina part of speech and definition.
noun a character or thing that suddenly enters the story in a novel, play, movie, etc., and solves a problem that had previously seemed impossible to solve
confrontation part of speech, definition, related form and related phrases.
noun a face-to-face encounter, usually (but not always) suggesting a hostile or defiant attitude (verb) confront stand up to, square off against, throw down the gauntlet, take up the gauntlet, on the brink
calumny part of speech, definition, and related forms and phrases.
noun a false statement deliberately made up to injure a person. (verb) calumniate; (adj) calumnious do a hatchet job on, hurl brickbats at; mudslinging
addiction part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
noun a habit-forming practice or pursuit, usually one that is bad for a person's health or morally objectionable; habitual use of, of devotion to, something. (noun) an addict; (adjs) addictive, addicted to Addiction and addicted to are much used today in connection with drugs, but neither expression is limited to that area alone. One may, for example, be addicted to gambling, television, or coffee. In addition, both terms may be employed semi-humorously, as in "addicted to detective stories" or an "an addiction to chocolate marshmallow sundaes"
a status symbol definition.
noun a possession that is taken to indicate a person's wealth or high social or professional status.
a welfare state definition.
noun a social system in which a government is responsible for the economic and social welfare of its citizens and has policies to provide free health care, money for people without jobs, etc.; also : a country that has such a system
modus operandi part of speech and definition.
noun a usual way of doing something; especially : the usual way that a particular criminal performs a crime
detente definition.
noun an ending of unfriendly or hostile relations between countries
avarice part of speech, definition, and related forms
noun an excessive desire to acquire and possess wealth; a combination of greed and stinginess (Adj) avaricious (noun) avariciousness
schlemiel definition.
noun an unlucky bungler
disinformation definition.
noun false information that is given to people in order to make them believe something or to hide the truth
schmaltz definition.
noun music, art, etc., that is very sad or romantic in usually a foolish or exaggerated way
yenta definition.
noun one that meddles
a civil libertarian definition.
noun someone who is in favor of maximizing the right of people to do or say things that are not illegal without being stopped or interrupted by the government
the establishment definition.
noun the action of establishing something or being established. a business organization, public institution, or household. a group in a society exercising power and influence over matters of policy or taste, and seen as resisting change.
the inner city definition.
noun the area near the center of a city, especially when associated with social and economic problems.
insider trading definition.
noun the illegal activity of buying and selling a company's stocks while using secret information from a person who works for the company
gentrification definition.
noun the process of renewal and rebuilding accompanying the influx of middle-class or affluent people into deteriorating areas that often displaces poorer residents
censure part of speech, definition, phrases, and related forms.
noun and verb A (noun) Open and strong criticism or disapproval (Often taking the shape of a formal reprimand by someone in authority) B:(verb): To criticize severely; to disapprove strongly Phrases: a letter of censure, a vote of censure, a resolution of censure Related Forms: (noun) censurer, (Adj) censurable
censor part of speech, definition, and related forms.
noun and verb A (noun)an officials who examines works of literature, films, and the like for things considered to be immoral, offensive, or dangerous and who is empowered to prohibit or remove this material; anyone who acts as an arbiter of morals or reading/viewing matter B (verb)To examine for and remove objectionable material Related Forms: (Adj) Censorial, censorious (noun) counsorship
chagrin part of speech and definition
noun and verb A(noun): Irritation, embarrassment, or humiliation caused by disappointment or frustration B(verb): To cause such a feeling.
conjecture part of speech, definition, related forms, and related phrases
noun and verb A: (noun) a conclusion based on inadequate evidence; a guess B: (verb) To conclude from inadequate evidence; to guess (Adj) conjectural an educated guess, a shot in the dark, a ballpark estimate
coup d'état part of speech and definition.
noun phrase A sudden, sometimes violent, overthrow of a ruler or government by a small group of people from within.
noblesse oblige part of speech and definition.
noun phrase The obligation of people of high status or great wealth to behave nobly or kindly toward others.
sitcom definition and elements that went into it
noun, 1. situation comedy. situation/comedy
infomercial definition and elements that went into it
noun, 1: a long commercial that informs or instructs, especially in an original and entertaining manner: Information/commercial
an activist definition.
noun/Adj someone who supports a doctrine or practice that emphasizes direct vigorous action especially in support of or opposition to one side of a controversial issue
aggregate part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note,
noun/verb/adj A: (n) the total amount or the sum total of the individual parts B: (V) to gather or merge into a single whole; to amount to C: (Adj) Total, collective (noun) aggregation Perhaps the widest current use of aggregate as a noun occurs in the prepositional phrase "in the aggregate", meaning "collectively"
titanic definition and origin
of exceptional strength, size, or power. From the Greek Titans, former gods of enormous power
imprimatur
official approval
political patronage definition
political patronage is often defined as public office awarded in payment for political support
tantalizing definition and origin
possessing a quality that arouses or stimulates desire or interest; also : mockingly or teasingly out of reach From the Greek myth of Tantalus being surrounded by food and drink but unable to partake in it.
What is the difference between progeny and prodigy?
progeny Noun (uncountable) offspring or descendants. (countable) result of a creative effort prodigy Noun An extraordinary occurrence or creature; an anomaly, especially a monster; a freak. An amazing or marvellous thing; a wonder. A wonderful example of something. An extremely talented person, especially a child.
daredevil
recklessly and often ostentatiously daring
define guardianship
someone or something that watches or protects something law : someone who takes care of another person or of another person's property
Acrobat definition
someone who entertains people (as at a circus) by performing difficult and often dangerous acts (such as swinging from a bar or walking on a rope high in the air)
spoilsport
someone who spoils other people's fun or enjoyment
bonus
something good that is more than what was expected or required
Define a red herring
something intended to divert attention from the real problem or matter at hand; a misleading clue.
Define cargo
something that is carried from one place to another by boat, airplane, etc.
Define a sacred cow
something that is regarded by some people with such respect and veneration that they do not like it being criticized by anyone in any way.
Define bonanza
something that produces very good results for someone or something : a large amount of something valuable
saturnine definition and origin
sullen and gloomy The word derives from the Roman god of agriculture, who was often depicted as a bent old man with a stern, sluggish, and sullen nature.
define blarney
talk that is not true but that is nice and somewhat funny and that may be used to trick you
What is a subversive interested in doing?
the act of subverting : the state of being subverted; especially : a systematic attempt to overthrow or undermine a government or political system by persons working secretly from within
civil service definition
the administrative service of a government or international agency exclusive of the armed forces; especially : one in which appointments are determined by competitive examination
Definition of chronology
the arrangement of events in time; a list of events in the order that they happened. Adj: chronological
define wordsmanship
the art or craft of writing
revenue sharing definition
the distribution of a portion of federal tax revenues to state and local governments.
define productivity
the effectiveness of productive effort, especially in industry, as measured in terms of the rate of output per unit of inpu
define minimum wage
the lowest wage permitted by law or by a special agreement (such as one with a labor union).
civil rights definition
the nonpolitical rights of a citizen; especially : the rights of personal liberty guaranteed to United States citizens by the 13th and 14th amendments to the Constitution and by acts of Congress
plaintiff definition
the person who makes the complain in a lawsuit
philanthropy definition and origin
the practice of giving money and time to help make life better for other people
define gamesmanship
the practice of winning a game or contest by doing things that seem unfair but that are not actually against the rules : the clever use of skills or tricks to succeed or do something
double jeopardy definition
the prosecution of a person twice for the same offense
onus
the responsibility for something
define lifemanship
the skill or practice of achieving superiority or an appearance of superiority over others (as in conversation) by perplexing and demoralizing them
define automation
the use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or other production process.
Define broadside
the whole side of a ship above the water line, from the bow to the quarter. 2. Navy. all the guns that can be fired from one side of a warship. a simultaneous discharge of all the guns on one side of a warship.
Define to handle with kid gloves
to be very polite or kind to someone who is important or easily upset because you do not want to make them angry or upset
Define to go to the dogs
to become worse in quality or character
Define talk big
to brag; to make grandiose statements.
arraign definition
to call before a court to answer a formal charge
galvanize definition and origin
to cause (people) to become so excited or concerned about an issue, idea, etc., that they want to do something about it : to cause (a force that is capable of causing change) to become active : to cover (steel or iron) with a layer of zinc to prevent it from rusting From Luigi Galvani
bowdlerize definition and origin
to change (a book, play, movie, etc.) by removing parts that could offend people From Thomas Bowdler
gerrymander definition and origin
to divide (a state, school district, etc.) into political units that give one group an unfair advantage From Elbridge Gerry + salamander
reapportionment definition
to divide and distribute portions of a whole in a fair and equitable manner (as a house of representatives) anew
Define hold out the olive branch
to do or say something in order to show that you want to end a disagreement with someone Usage notes: An olive branch is traditionally a symbol of peace.
disbar definition
to expel from the practice of law.
Define to play possum
to feign sleep or death. to dissemble or pretend ignorance:
mesmerize definition and origin
to hold the attention of (someone) entirely : to interest or amaze (someone) so much that nothing else is seen or noticed From Franz Anton Mesmer
Define to dovetail
to join or fit together compactly or harmoniously.
lynch definition and origin
to kill (someone) illegally as punishment for a crime From Capt. William Lynch
Definition of synchronize
to occur at the same time; to cause to coincide in time.
What is the definition of Dic, dict
to say; Also, used in several Latin verbs to mean: indicate, consecrate, devote, dedicate; to declare, to order Ex: edict, dedicate, benediction, predict, malediction (a curse), predicament, indicate, dictionaru, and dictator
convert definition and root
to transform, exchange, or adopt. A convert is a person who adopts (turns to) a new religion or other doctrine (noun) conversion
avert definition and root
to turn away from;to prevent (noun) aversion
invert definition and root
to turn over or in on itself (noun) reversion
revert definition and root
to turn to go back to (noun) reversion
sandwich definition and origin
two pieces of bread with something (such as meat, peanut butter, etc.) between them From John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich
cutthroat
used to describe a situation in which people compete with each other in an unpleasant and often cruel and unfair way
gratis
used to indicate that no money is paid for something
define sackcloth and ashes
used with allusion to the wearing of sackcloth and having ashes sprinkled on the head as a sign of penitence or mourning (Matt 11:21).
define flotsam and jetsam
useless or discarded objects.
Define blurt out
utter impulsively
diverse definition and root
varied. Another adjective with the same meaning is diversified
schlepp definition.
verb to carry or pull (something) with difficulty : to drag or haul (something)
downsizing definition.
verb to make (something) smaller : to make a company smaller and more efficient by reducing the number of workers
schmooze definition.
verb to talk with someone in a friendly way often in order to get some advantage for yourself
telecast definition and elements that went into it
verb 1: to broadcast by television. noun 2: a television, broadcast. television/broadcast
guesstimate definition and elements that went into it
verb 1: to estimate without substantial basis in facts or statistics. noun 2: an estimate arrived at by guesswork. guess/estimate
splatter definition and elements that went into it
verb 1:splash with a sticky or viscous liquid. 2: splash (a liquid) over a surface or object. (of such a liquid) splash. 3:informal prominently or sensationally publish (a story) in a newspaper. noun 1: a spot or trail of a sticky or viscous liquid splashed over a surface or object. Splash/spatter
collaborate part of speech, definition, related forms and related phrase.
verb A: To work together on some kind of joint project. (In this sense the tone of the word is neutral) B: To cooperate with the enemy in some kind of treasonable activity. (In this sense the tone of the word is definitely pejorative) (noun) collaboration, collaborator in cahoots with
accede part of speech, definition and related form
verb A: To yield to; to agree to. B: To enter upon an office or dignity (Nouns) access, accession, accessory; (adj) accessible
baffle part of speech, definition, and related forms
verb A: to puzzle completely B: to prevent from achieving a goal (Adj) baffling (noun) bafflement
bicker part of speech, definition and related form
verb To engage in petty quarreling (noun) bickering
augment part of speech, definition, and related form.
verb To make greater; to become greater (noun) augmentation
atone part of speech, definition, related forms and phrases and usage note.
verb To make up for or repent (noun) atonement make amends for, do penance for Usage note: The Day of Atonement (from the Hebrew Yom Kippur) is a day set aside by Jews for fasting and prayer as penance for sins and misdeeds committed during the year just past.
condone part of speech, definition, related forms and related phrases
verb To overlook or disregard an offense, thereby implying forgiveness, acceptance, or possibly approval of it. (noun) condonation, condoner close one's eyes to, turn a blind eye to; put up with
cajole part of speech, definition, and related forms and phrases
verb To persuade or obtain by flattery or deceit (nouns) cajolery, cajoler soft-soap, sweet-talk; curry favor with; apple-polishing.
kvell definition.
verb to be extraordinarily proud
Absolve part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
verb to clear of guilt or blame Absolution In a religious sense, absolve and absolution refer to granting a pardon, especially for a sin.
kvetch definition.
verb to complain often or constantly
nosh definition.
verb to eat food
Abet part of speech, definition, and related form/phrase.
verb to encourage or assist, especially in wrongdoing to aid and abet
coerce part of speech, definition, related forms and related phrases.
verb to force someone to do something against his or her will by using undue pressure, threats, intimidation, or physical violence (noun) coercion, coerciveness (Adj) coercive, coercible (adverb) coercively Strong-arm tactics, high-pressure someone, bring pressure to bear, railroad someone into, under duress
acclimate part of speech, definition and related form
verb to get used to (usually an environment or situation) (verb)acclimatize; (nouns) acclimation, acclimatization.
cohere part of speech, definition, related forms, and usage note
verb to hold or stick together; to fit together into an orderly, logical, and unified whole (noun) coherence. coherency, cohesion, cohesiveness (adj) coherent, cohesive Usage note: In spoken or written English, coherence is the principle that requires the parts of a sentence or a longer composition to be so worded and arranged that they stick together in an orderly, logical relationship. Errors that usually produce incoherence include dangling or misplaced modifiers, faulty pronoun references, lack of an overall focus, puzzling shifts in thought, the inclusion or irrelevant details, the illogical arrangement of facts or events, and the omission of essential information.
dumb down definition.
verb to lower the level of difficulty and the intellectual content of (as a textbook); also : to lower the general level of intelligence in
bungle part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
verb to mismanage or make a mess of (noun) bungler Usage Note: Some of the items included among the synonyms for bungle-- for example, "bollix up" and "klutz"-- are slang expressions that should be avoided in formal speech and writing. The same is true for the antonyms provided. For example, neither "ace" nor "whiz" would be considered appropriate in formal contexts.
Abstain part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
verb to refrain completely and voluntarily (nouns) abstinence, abstention; (adjs) abstinent Abstain and abstinence are often used in reference to strong drink, with the meaning "refrain completely from drinking" A common synonym for abstinence in this sense is temperance. Persons who never drink intoxication beverages are sometime referred to as teetotalers.
abhor part of speech, definition, related form, and usage note.
verb to regard with horror and loathing; to hate intensely. abhorrent(adj), abhorrence(noun) Because abhor implies strong MORAL condemnation, it should properly be reserved for attitudes or actions that really do offend a person's sense of right and wrong (racism, child abuse). This, of course, is not to say that the word CANNOT be applied to other things. On the contrary, it is frequently used of trifling matters that normally would not be though to grate of one's MORAL sensibilities- for example, spinach pr TV game shows.
badger part of speech and definition
verb to tease; to annoy with a constant string of petty torments
squawk definition and elements that went into it
verb (used without object) 1: to utter a loud, harsh cry, as a duck or other fowl when frightened. verb (used with object) 3: to utter or give forth with a squawk. noun 4: a loud, harsh cry or sound. Squall/hawk
boycott part of speech and definition,
verb and noun A: (verb) To refuse to buy, use or deal with as a way to protest (or for acceptance of) some form of behavior. B: (noun) an instance of such treatment.
advocate part of speech, definition, related form
verb/noun A: (v) to speak or argue in favor of; to give active public support to. B: (n) A person who pleads in the interest of a cause or individual (Noun) Advocacy
breakneck
very fast : dangerously fast
opprobrium
very strong disapproval or criticism of a person or thing especially by a large number of people
define real wage
wages estimated not in money but in purchasing power
martial definition and origin
warlike or military From the Roman god of war, Mars