Advanced Vocab Words - Set 8 Flashcards
Learn to understand and effectively use 100 advanced vocabulary words. Improve your test scores, or simply be more articulate in your daily life. Each word is used in context in a sample sentence and includes synonyms and a pronunciation guide. (200 cards)
1
Q
Define:
nonchalant
(non-shuh-lont)
A
adj. casually unconcerned
Lauren was nonchalant about being chosen as valedictorian; she simply didn’t think it was a big deal.
Prefix: non- (meaning “not”)
2
Q
Define:
oscillate
(oss-ih-lehyt)
A
v. to move or swing from side to side
v. to waver between conflicting positions
Her feelings towards her cynical commanding officer oscillated between admiration and disgust.
Root: oscill (from Latin oscillare, meaning “to swing”)
3
Q
Define:
ostentatious
(oss-ten-tay-shuss)
A
adj. intended to impress
adj. characterized by pretension
She loves to show off that ostentatious ring her rich husband got for her.
Root: ostent (from Latin ostentare, meaning “to display”)
4
Q
Define:
overwrought
(oh-vur-rawt)
A
adj. deeply agitated or anxious
Everyone in the family was overwrought with the thought that the children might be in danger.
Prefix: over- (meaning “excessively”)
5
Q
Define:
pacific
(puh-sif-ick)
A
adj. of a peaceful nature
adj. promoting peace and conflict resolution
The government decided to pursue a pacific policy and call back its troops on the border.
Root: pac (from Latin pax, meaning “peace”)
6
Q
Define:
palatable
(pal-ih-tuh-bull)
A
adj. acceptable to one’s taste or mind
Though clearly necessary to balance the budget, unpopular tax increases are not palatable to any political party.
Suffix: -able (meaning “capable of”)
7
Q
Define:
perennial
(puh-ren-ee-ul)
A
adj. endless
adj. recurring over and over
Not being able to pay rent on time was a perennial problem for him.
Prefix: per- (from Latin, meaning “through”); Root: enn (from Latin annus, meaning “year”)
8
Q
Define:
perfidy
(per-fih-dee)
A
n. a betrayal of trust
The soldier was known for his loyalty, so his act of perfidy was particularly shocking to his superior officers.
Prefix: per- (from Latin, meaning “through” or “thoroughly”); Root: fid (from Latin fides, meaning “faith”)
9
Q
Define:
perfunctory
(per-funk-tuh-ree)
A
adj. done as a formality, without attention to detail
Her apology was clearly only a perfunctory gesture and not truly heartfelt.
Prefix: per- (from Latin, meaning “through” or “thoroughly”); Root: funct (from Latin fungi, meaning “to perform”)
10
Q
Define:
pernicious
(per-nish-us)
A
adj. harmful; hurtful, especially in a slow or subtle way
The pernicious effects of money in politics are hardly unique to this country.
Prefix: per- (from Latin, meaning “through” or “thoroughly”); Root: nic (from Latin nex, meaning “death” or “harm”)
11
Q
Define:
perspicacity
(per-spih-kass-ih-tee)
A
n. sharp powers of observation
The writer’s perspicacity made it easy for her to understand and write about human nature.
Prefix: per- (from Latin, meaning “through”); Root: spic (from Latin specere, meaning “to look” or “to see”)
12
Q
Define:
perturb
(purr-turb)
A
v. to disturb or cause disorder, esp. in one’s mental state
Even her sleep was perturbed by her obsession over her credit card debt.
Prefix: per- (from Latin, meaning “through” or “thoroughly”); Root: turb (from Latin turbare, meaning “to disturb”)
13
Q
Define:
placate
(play-kate)
A
v. to ease another’s anger
Lewis attempted to placate the angry woman whose car had been hit, but she continued screaming and pacing back and forth.
Root: plac (from Latin placare, meaning “to please” or “to soothe”)
14
Q
Define:
placid
(plass-id)
A
adj. free from disturbance
There currently reigns a placid atmosphere at City Hall, but don’t expect it to last much longer.
Root: plac (from Latin placidus, meaning “calm” or “peaceful”)
15
Q
Define:
pivotal
(piv-uh-tul)
A
adj. of crucial importance
The audience was enraged when the film reel broke during a pivotal scene in the movie.
Root: pivot (from French pivot, meaning “axis or shaft”)
16
Q
Define:
pragmatic
(prag-mat-ick)
A
adj. guided by practical experience and observation
Her pragmatic attitude often put her at odds with her idealistic peers, whom she called unrealistic and naive.
Root: pragmat (from Greek pragma, meaning “deed or act”)
17
Q
Define:
predilection
(pred-ih-leck-shun)
A
n. preference; a strong liking for
He had a predilection for expensive cars that was hard on his wallet.
Prefix: pre- (from Latin, meaning “before”); Root: dilect (from Latin diligere, meaning “to love” or “to choose”)
18
Q
Define:
preside
(prih-zahyd)
A
v. to be in a position of authority over a group
The newly-elected president presided over the first meeting of the council in September.
Prefix: pre- (from Latin, meaning “before”); Root: sid (from Latin sedere, meaning “to sit”)
19
Q
Define:
prevaricate
(pruh-vair-ih-kate)
A
v. to be deliberately ambiguous in order to hide the truth; to lie
The guest chose to prevaricate by answering the host’s questions with unrelated anecdotes.
Prefix: pre- (from Latin, meaning “before”); Root: varic (from Latin varicare, meaning “to straddle” or “to walk crookedly”)
20
Q
Define:
probity
(pro-bih-tee)
A
n. honesty and decency
The group chose Eduardo to represent them, not only because he was the eldest, but because he had shown the most probity during their discussions.
Root: prob (from Latin probus, meaning “good or honest”)
21
Q
Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. casually unconcerned
Hint: starts with “n”
A
nonchalant
synonyms: easygoing, careless, indifferent, unconcerned
The student remained nonchalant despite the looming exam.
22
Q
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The pendulum began to ______ steadily after being released.
Hint: The word starts with ‘o’.
A
oscillate
oscillate (oss-ih-lehyt)
v. to move or swing from side to side
v. to waver between conflicting positions
23
Q
Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. intended to impress
adj. characterized by pretension
Hint: starts with “o”
A
ostentatious
synonyms: showy, flashy, pretentious, flamboyant, extravagant
His ostentatious display of wealth drew unwanted attention.
She wore an ostentatious gown that outshone everyone at the party.
24
Q
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
She felt ______ after hearing the unsettling news.
Hint: The word starts with ‘o’.
A
overwrought
overwrought (oh-vur-rawt)
adj. deeply agitated or anxious
25
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. of a peaceful nature
adj. promoting peace and conflict resolution
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
pacific
## Footnote
synonyms: soothing, peaceful, conciliatory, calm, tranquil
The _pacific_ tone of the speaker calmed the restless crowd.
Her _pacific_ approach to conflict resolution was admirable.
26
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The dish was surprisingly \_\_\_\_\_\_, even for the picky eater.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
palatable
## Footnote
*palatable (**pal**-ih-tuh-bull)*
adj. acceptable to one's taste or mind
27
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. endless
adj. recurring over and over
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
perennial
## Footnote
synonyms: enduring, perpetual, ceaseless, everlasting, constant
The garden was filled with _perennial_ flowers that bloomed each spring.
Her _perennial_ optimism inspired those around her.
28
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
His \_\_\_\_\_\_ shattered the friendship they had built over the years.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
perfidy
## Footnote
*perfidy (**per**-fih-dee)*
n. a betrayal of trust
29
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. done as a formality, without attention to detail
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
perfunctory
## Footnote
synonyms: automatic, habitual, careless, routine, mechanical
She gave a _perfunctory_ nod, barely listening to the conversation.
30
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ effects of the pollution were evident in the dying trees.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
pernicious
## Footnote
*pernicious (per-**nish**-us)*
adj. harmful; hurtful
31
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. acute perception
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
perspicacity
## Footnote
synonyms: insight, astuteness, discernment, perception, sharpness
Her _perspicacity_ allowed her to see through the deception.
32
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The unexpected news began to \_\_\_\_\_\_ her usual calm demeanor.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
perturb
## Footnote
*perturb (purr-**turb**)*
v. to disturb or cause disorder, esp. in one's mental state
33
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to ease another's anger
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
placate
## Footnote
synonyms: soothe, pacify, appease, calm, assuage
She tried to _placate_ her friend after their heated argument.
34
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The lake was \_\_\_\_\_\_, reflecting the clear blue sky.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
placid
## Footnote
*placid (**plass**-id)*
adj. free from disturbance
35
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. of crucial importance
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
pivotal
## Footnote
synonyms: critical, crucial, essential, key, significant
His research proved to be _pivotal_ in the development of new treatments.
36
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The committee took a \_\_\_\_\_\_ approach to solving the issue.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
pragmatic
## Footnote
*pragmatic (prag-**mat**-ick)*
adj. guided by practical experience and observation
37
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. preference; a strong liking for
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
predilection
## Footnote
synonyms: inclination, love, fondness, preference, tendency
She has a _predilection_ for classic literature over modern novels.
38
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The judge will \_\_\_\_\_\_ over the case next week.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
preside
## Footnote
*preside (prih-**zahyd**)*
v. to be in a position of authority over a group
39
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to be deliberately ambiguous in order to hide the truth; to lie
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
prevaricate
## Footnote
synonyms: deceive, garble, misrepresent, equivocate, lie
When questioned, he tended to _prevaricate_ rather than give a straight answer.
40
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_ in all dealings earned her the trust of her colleagues.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
probity
## Footnote
*probity (**pro**-bih-tee)*
n. honesty and decency
41
# Define:
proclivity
| (pro-**kliv**-ih-tee)
n. a natural inclination
## Footnote
Her _proclivity_ for laziness is going to be a problem when we begin the new project.
Prefix: *pro-* (from Latin, meaning "forward" or "in favor of"); Root: *cliv* (from Latin *clivus*, meaning "slope")
42
# Define:
prodigal
| (**prod**-ih-guhl)
adj. lavishly wasteful
adj. being generous or giving abundantly
n. one who spends recklessly
## Footnote
The woman ended up regretting her _prodigal_ lifestyle when she went bankrupt after a few years.
Prefix: *pro-* (from Latin, meaning "forward" or "forth"); Root: *ag* (from Latin *agere*, meaning "to drive" or "to lead")
43
# Define:
pugnacious
| (pug-**nehy**-shuss)
adj. combative in nature
## Footnote
The _pugnacious_ young man was eventually suspended for constantly fighting with other students.
Root: *pugn* (from Latin *pugnare*, meaning "to fight"); Suffix: *-acious* (from Latin, indicating a tendency or inclination)
44
# Define:
quandary
| (**kwon**-duh-ree)
n. a state of uncertainty, a dilemma
## Footnote
After receiving several great offers, I was in a _quandary_ as to which I should accept.
Root: *quand* (possibly from Latin *quando*, meaning "when" or "at what time")
45
# Define:
quash
| (**kwash**)
v. to forcibly suppress
v. to extinguish
## Footnote
The prosecution's star witness _quashed_ any chance the defense had of winning the trial.
Root: *quassare* (from Latin, meaning "to shake" or "to shatter")
46
# Define:
quibble
| (**kwib**-ul)
v. to evade the truth or importance of an issue by raising trivial objections
n. a trivial objection
## Footnote
The argument grew even more aggravating when my opponent began to _quibble_ with me over semantics.
Root: *quib* (possibly from Latin *qui*, meaning "who" or "what")
47
# Define:
quiescent
| (kwee-**ess**-unt)
adj. being quiet or still
## Footnote
The outlying region, usually a _quiescent_ outpost of the empire, was the unlikely origin of the rebellion that would unseat the emperor.
Root: *quiesc* (from Latin *quiescere*, meaning "to rest" or "to be quiet"); Suffix: *-ent* (from Latin, indicating an adjective form)
48
# Define:
rancor
| (**rang**-kur)
n. a feeling of deep and bitter anger
## Footnote
Once the game ended there was no _rancor_ between the opponents, despite the intensity of their match.
Root: *ranc* (from Latin *rancere*, meaning "to be rank" or "to stink")
49
# Define:
recalcitrant
| (rih-**kal**-sih-trunt)
adj. stubborn and defiant of authority
## Footnote
Instead of obeying the police's instructions, the protesters became _recalcitrant_ and refused to move.
Prefix: *re-* (from Latin, meaning "back" or "again"); Root: *calcitr* (from Latin *calcitrare*, meaning "to kick")
50
# Define:
recess
| (**ree**-sess)
v. to suspend proceedings
n. a break from class or business
n. an indented or hollowed-out space
## Footnote
The legislative body will _recess_ next week.
Prefix: *re-* (from Latin, meaning "back" or "again"); Root: *cess* (from Latin *cedere*, meaning "to go" or "to yield")
51
# Define:
redoubtable
| (rih-**dow**-tuh-bull)
adj. fearsome or awe-inspiring
## Footnote
I knew Mauricio would be a _redoubtable_ opponent after hearing my own coach sing his praises.
Prefix: *re-* (from Latin, meaning "again" or "back"); Root: *doubt* (from Latin *dubitare*, meaning "to doubt"); Suffix: *-able* (from Latin, indicating capability)
52
# Define:
sagacious
| (suh-**gehy**-shuss)
adj. very insightful or shrewd
## Footnote
My best friend is quite _sagacious_, so I know I can always turn to her for wise advice.
Root: *sagac* (from Latin *sagax*, meaning "wise" or "perceptive"); Suffix: *-ious* (from Latin, forming adjectives)
53
# Define:
salubrious
| (suh-**loo**-bree-uss)
adj. healthy or health-promoting
## Footnote
My new exercise routine has had a _salubrious_ impact on my life.
Root: *salubr* (from Latin *salubris*, meaning "healthful"); Suffix: *-ious* (from Latin, forming adjectives)
54
# Define:
salutary
| (**sal**-yuh-tare-ee)
adj. beneficial, esp. relating to health
## Footnote
Anti-pollution laws have _salutary_ effects for humans and animals.
Root: *salut* (from Latin *salus*, meaning "health" or "welfare"); Suffix: *-ary* (from Latin, forming adjectives)
55
# Define:
satiate
| (**sehy**-she-ehyt)
v. to fill to satisfaction
## Footnote
Sasha knew that the small portions served in the cafeteria would not _satiate_ him.
Root: *sati* (from Latin *satis*, meaning "enough"); Suffix: *-ate* (from Latin, forming verbs)
56
# Define:
scruple
| (**skrew**-pull)
n. an ethical or moral concern
v. to hesitate on moral grounds
## Footnote
The man _scrupled_ to tell a blatant lie, but eventually realized that he had no choice.
Root: *scrupul* (from Latin *scrupulus*, meaning "a small sharp stone" or "anxiety")
57
# Define:
sedentary
| (**sed**-en-tair-ee)
adj. sitting or seated
adj. tending to stay in the same place
## Footnote
Ming wanted to quit his _sedentary_ job at the library and become a police officer.
Root: *sed* (from Latin *sedere*, meaning "to sit"); Suffix: *-ary* (from Latin, forming adjectives)
58
# Define:
sediment
| (**sed**-ih-munt)
n. matter deposited by some natural process
n. settled matter at the bottom of a liquid
## Footnote
Kate refused to drink the water from the well when she noticed the _sediment_ at the bottom of the bucket.
Root: *sed* (from Latin *sedere*, meaning "to sit"); Suffix: *-ment* (from Latin, indicating a result or means)
59
# Define:
sordid
| (**sore**-did)
adj. dirty or rundown
adj. immoral or unethical
## Footnote
During the divorce trial, the husband was asked to reveal the _sordid_ details of his affair.
Root: *sord* (from Latin *sordere*, meaning "to be dirty")
60
# Define:
specious
| (**spee**-shuss)
adj. plausible but false
adj. deceptively pleasing
## Footnote
After doing some research of my own, I realized that his argument was _specious_ at best.
Root: *spec* (from Latin *specere*, meaning "to look" or "to see"); Suffix: *-ious* (from Latin, forming adjectives)
61
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. a natural inclination
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
proclivity
## Footnote
synonyms: tendency, disposition, leaning, inclination, propensity
His _proclivity_ for music was evident from a young age.
62
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
His \_\_\_\_\_\_ spending habits led to financial trouble.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
prodigal
## Footnote
*prodigal (**prod**-ih-guhl)*
adj. lavishly wasteful
adj. being generous or giving abundantly
adj. one who spends recklessly
63
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. combative in nature
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
pugnacious
## Footnote
synonyms: hostile, belligerent, combative, aggressive, quarrelsome
The _pugnacious_ dog barked at every passerby.
64
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
She found herself in a \_\_\_\_\_\_ about which job offer to accept.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'q'.*
quandary
## Footnote
*quandary (**kwon**-duh-ree)*
n. a state of uncertainty, a dilemma
65
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to forcibly suppress
v. to extinguish
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "q"*
quash
## Footnote
synonyms: defeat, destroy, squash, suppress, extinguish
The court decided to _quash_ the earlier ruling.
66
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Don't \_\_\_\_\_\_ over small details; focus on the big picture.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'q'.*
quibble
## Footnote
*quibble (**kwib**-ul)*
v. to evade the truth or importance of an issue by raising trivial objections
n. a trivial objection
67
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. being quiet or still
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "q"*
quiescent
## Footnote
synonyms: inactive, motionless, inert, dormant, still
The _quiescent_ village was a stark contrast to the bustling city.
68
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
There was no \_\_\_\_\_\_ between the players after the game.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'r'.*
rancor
## Footnote
*rancor (**rang**-kur)*
n. a feeling of deep and bitter anger
69
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. stubborn and defiant of authority
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "r"*
recalcitrant
## Footnote
synonyms: disobedient, resistant, rebellious, obstinate, uncooperative
The _recalcitrant_ student refused to follow the school rules.
70
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The committee will \_\_\_\_\_\_ for lunch before continuing the discussion.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'r'.*
recess
## Footnote
*recess (**ree**-sess)*
v. to suspend proceedings
n. a break from class or business
n. an indented or hollowed-out space
71
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. fearsome or awe-inspiring
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "r"*
redoubtable
## Footnote
synonyms: dreadful, admirable, worthy, formidable, fearsome
He was a _redoubtable_ opponent on the chessboard.
72
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_ advice always proved valuable.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
sagacious
## Footnote
*sagacious (suh-**gehy**-shuss)*
adj. very insightful or shrewd
73
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. healthy or health-promoting
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
salubrious
## Footnote
synonyms: beneficial, good, hygienic, healthful, wholesome
The _salubrious_ climate attracted many retirees.
74
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ effects of exercise are well-documented.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
salutary
## Footnote
*salutary (**sal**-yuh-tare-ee)*
adj. beneficial, esp. relating to health
75
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to fill to satisfaction
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
satiate
## Footnote
synonyms: satisfy, stuff, gratify, fulfill, quench
She hoped the meal would _satiate_ her hunger.
76
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
He had a \_\_\_\_\_\_ about lying to his friend.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
scruple
## Footnote
*scruple (**skrew**-pull)*
n. an ethical or moral concern
v. to hesitate on moral grounds
77
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. sitting or seated
adj. tending to stay in the same place
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
sedentary
## Footnote
synonyms: desk-bound, motionless, stationary, inactive, immobile
His _sedentary_ lifestyle contributed to his weight gain.
78
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ at the bottom of the lake was thick and dark.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
sediment
## Footnote
*sediment (**sed**-ih-munt)*
n. matter deposited by some natural process
n. settled matter at the bottom of a liquid
79
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. dirty or rundown
adj. immoral or unethical
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
sordid
## Footnote
synonyms: nasty, vile, corrupt, filthy, disreputable
The _sordid_ details of the affair were shocking.
80
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_ argument failed to convince the jury.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
specious
## Footnote
*specious (**spee**-shuss)*
adj. plausible but false
adj. deceptively pleasing
81
# Define:
sporadic
| (spuh-**rad**-ik)
adj. occurring occasionally and without pattern
## Footnote
Our vacation plans were ruined by _sporadic_ rain that seemed to start every time we headed towards the beach.
Root: *spor* (from Greek *sporas*, meaning "scattered")
82
# Define:
spurious
| (**spure**-ee-us)
adj. intending to deceive
adj. not valid or genuine
## Footnote
The tabloid writers made up _spurious_ accusations against the young actor.
Root: *spur* (from Latin *spurius*, meaning "false")
83
# Define:
squalor
| (**skwol**-er)
n. filth; poverty
## Footnote
The town's poorest inhabitants live in _squalor_ due to their inability to access clean water.
Root: *squal* (from Latin *squalere*, meaning "to be filthy")
84
# Define:
stark
| (**stark**)
adj. complete or extreme
adj. very simple
adj. bare or blunt
## Footnote
The expensive car that he parked outside stood in _stark_ contrast to the impoverished neighborhood surrounding it.
Root: *stark* (from Old English *stearc*, meaning "stiff, strong")
85
# Define:
stoic
| (**stow**-ick)
adj. indifferent to pleasure or pain
n. one who is indifferent to pleasure or pain
## Footnote
The defendant remained _stoic_ throughout the trial despite the harshness of the prosecution's questions.
Root: *stoic* (from Greek *stoa*, meaning "porch"; refers to the Stoic philosophers who taught on a porch)
86
# Define:
stratum
| (**strat**-um)
n. a horizontal layer of material
n. a level of society composed of people with similar social, cultural, or economic status
## Footnote
Friction between two social _strata_ can often lead to political upheaval.
Root: *strat* (from Latin *stratum*, meaning "layer")
87
# Define:
stria
| (**strahy**-uh)
n. a linear mark, ridge, or groove, esp. one of a number of similar parallel features
## Footnote
We examined the _striae_ on the rocks to see if they were really from the same underground cave.
Root: *stri* (from Latin *stria*, meaning "furrow, groove")
88
# Define:
strident
| (**strahyd**-unt)
adj. unpleasantly loud and harsh
## Footnote
Her _strident_ voice made me dread our weekly phone conversations.
Root: *strid* (from Latin *stridere*, meaning "to make a harsh noise")
89
# Define:
stringent
| (**strin**-djunt)
adj. strictly controlled or enforced
## Footnote
Since accidents on roller coasters can often be fatal, amusement parks must undergo _stringent_ testing before being opened to the public.
Root: *string* (from Latin *stringere*, meaning "to bind tightly")
90
# Define:
stymie
| (**stahy**-mee)
n. a situation that defies progress or resolution
v. to prevent or hinder the progress of something
## Footnote
The guard dogs managed to _stymie_ the thief as he tried to break into the house.
91
# Define:
succinct
| (suck-**singkt**)
adj. brief
## Footnote
Since there were only a few minutes left in the meeting, the final speaker had to keep his comments _succinct_ and to the point.
Prefix: *sub-* (from Latin, meaning "under"); Root: *cinct* (from Latin *cingere*, meaning "to gird")
92
# Define:
transient
| (**tran**-zee-uhnt)
adj. not permanent
adj. moving from place to place
n. one who moves from place to place
## Footnote
The _transient_ relied on the kindness of strangers whenever he arrived in a new town.
Root: *trans* (from Latin *transire*, meaning "to go across")
93
# Define:
trepidation
| (trep-ih-**dehy**-shun)
n. a feeling of fear or agitation
## Footnote
Janice had to face her _trepidation_ about flying in order to make the trip to California.
Root: *trepid* (from Latin *trepidare*, meaning "to tremble")
94
# Define:
turbid
| (**tur**-bid)
adj. clouded due to sediment
adj. confused
## Footnote
I dropped my phone in the lake and couldn't find it in the _turbid_ water.
Root: *turb* (from Latin *turbidus*, meaning "confused, disordered")
95
# Define:
ubiquitous
| (you-**bick**-wih-tuss)
adj. present everywhere
## Footnote
In her neighborhood, Starbucks shops had become _ubiquitous_; she couldn't walk two blocks without passing one.
Root: *ubiquit* (from Latin *ubique*, meaning "everywhere")
96
# Define:
unfeigned
| (un-**feynd**)
adj. sincerely felt or expressed
## Footnote
Although it seemed a ridiculous concern to us, Joyce's preoccupation with her little sister's sprained ankle was _unfeigned_.
Prefix: *un-* (meaning "not"); Root: *feign* (from Latin *fingere*, meaning "to shape, invent")
97
# Define:
unimpeachable
| (un-im-**pee**-chuh-bull)
adj. beyond doubt or suspicion
## Footnote
To win the case, the defense would need an _unimpeachable_ witness to prove their client's virtuous character.
Prefix: *un-* (meaning "not"); Root: *impeach* (from Latin *impedicare*, meaning "to entangle")
98
# Define:
untenable
| (un-**ten**-ih-bull)
adj. impossible to maintain or defend, as of an opinion
## Footnote
Kate is argumentative enough to support even the most _untenable_ positions.
Prefix: *un-* (meaning "not"); Root: *ten* (from Latin *tenere*, meaning "to hold")
99
# Define:
vacillate
| (**vass**-ih-lehyt)
v. to waver between conflicting positions
## Footnote
Both sides made such convincing arguments that the judge _vacillated_ between them for days before coming to a decision.
Root: *vacill* (from Latin *vacillare*, meaning "to sway to and fro")
100
# Define:
vacuous
| (**vak**-yoo-us)
adj. devoid of significance or matter; empty
adj. lacking serious purpose or occupation
## Footnote
I told him pointedly to stop wasting my time with his _vacuous_ comments.
Root: *vac* (from Latin *vacuus*, meaning "empty")
101
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. occurring occasionally and without pattern
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
sporadic
## Footnote
synonyms: random, scattered, seldom, intermittent, occasional
The _sporadic_ rain made planning difficult.
102
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ claims were quickly debunked.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
spurious
## Footnote
*spurious (**spure**-ee-us)*
adj. intending to deceive
adj. not valid or genuine
103
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. filth; poverty
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
squalor
## Footnote
synonyms: dirtiness, destitution, filth, misery, deprivation
They lived in _squalor_, struggling to make ends meet.
104
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ contrast between rich and poor was evident.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
stark
## Footnote
*stark (**stark**)*
adj. complete or extreme
adj. very simple
adj. bare or blunt
105
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. indifferent to pleasure or pain
n. one who is indifferent to pleasure or pain
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
stoic
## Footnote
synonyms: apathetic, detached, impassive, indifferent, unemotional
The _stoic_ soldier bore his injuries without complaint.
The _stoic_ remained calm during the chaos, showing no signs of distress.
106
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Archaeologists studied the \_\_\_\_\_\_ to understand past civilizations.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
stratum
## Footnote
*stratum (**strat**-um)*
n. a horizontal layer of material
n. a level of society composed of people with similar social, cultural, or economic status
107
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. a linear mark, ridge, or groove, esp. one of a number of similar parallel features
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
stria
## Footnote
synonyms: banding, groove, stripe, line, marking
The _striae_ on the surface revealed the rock's history.
108
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_ voice carried over the crowd.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
strident
## Footnote
*strident (**strahyd**-unt)*
adj. unpleasantly loud and harsh
109
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. strictly controlled or enforced
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
stringent
## Footnote
synonyms: binding, strict, rigorous, severe, exacting
The _stringent_ regulations ensured safety at the event.
110
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The ongoing conflict created a \_\_\_\_\_\_ for negotiations.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 's'.*
stymie
## Footnote
*stymie (**stahy**-mee)*
n. a situation that defies progress or resolution
v. to prevent or hinder the progress of something
111
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. brief
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
succinct
## Footnote
synonyms: blunt, compact, brief, concise, terse
Her _succinct_ explanation clarified the complex topic.
112
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ nature of his job meant he frequently relocated.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 't'.*
transient
## Footnote
*transient (**tran**-zee-uhnt)*
adj. not permanent
adj. moving from place to place
n. one who moves from place to place
113
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. a feeling of fear or agitation
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
trepidation
## Footnote
synonyms: anxiety, worry, apprehension, fear, unease
He approached the stage with _trepidation_ before his performance.
114
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ waters made it difficult to see the bottom.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 't'.*
turbid
## Footnote
*turbid (**tur**-bid)*
adj. clouded due to sediment
adj. confused
115
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. present everywhere
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "u"*
ubiquitous
## Footnote
synonyms: everywhere, omnipresent, pervasive, universal, all-over
Smartphones have become _ubiquitous_ in modern society.
116
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_ gratitude was evident in her warm smile.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'u'.*
unfeigned
## Footnote
*unfeigned (un-**feynd**)*
adj. sincerely felt or expressed
117
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. beyond doubt or suspicion
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "u"*
unimpeachable
## Footnote
synonyms: blameless, spotless, immaculate, irreproachable, undeniable
The witness's _unimpeachable_ testimony helped secure the verdict.
118
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Their argument became \_\_\_\_\_\_ after the new evidence emerged.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'u'.*
untenable
## Footnote
*untenable (un-**ten**-ih-bull)*
adj. impossible to maintain or defend, as of an opinion
119
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to waver between conflicting positions
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "v"*
vacillate
## Footnote
synonyms: fluctuate, hesitate, to be unsure, waver, dither
She began to _vacillate_ between two job offers, unsure of which to choose.
120
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
His \_\_\_\_\_\_ remarks contributed nothing to the discussion.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'v'.*
vacuous
## Footnote
*vacuous (**vak**-yoo-us)*
adj. devoid of significance or matter; empty
adj. lacking serious purpose or occupation
121
# Define:
vociferous
| (voe-**siff**-er-uss)
adj. loud and insistent, esp. to compel attention
## Footnote
The _vociferous_ mob gathered outside the store and awakened its owner.
Prefix: *voc* (from Latin *vox*, meaning "voice" or "call"); Suffix: *-ferous* (from Latin *-fer*, meaning "bearing" or "carrying")
122
# Define:
wanderlust
| (**wawn**-der-lust)
n. the desire to travel
## Footnote
A sudden feeling of _wanderlust_ encouraged me to pack my bags and head to Mexico.
Root: *wander* (from Old English *wandrian*, meaning "to roam"); Suffix: *-lust* (from German *Lust*, meaning "desire" or "pleasure")
123
# Define:
wheedle
| (**weed**-ul)
v. to coax or persuade
## Footnote
Eventually the ice-cream truck driver was _wheedled_ into giving the sullen child a free scoop.
Root: *wheedle* (of uncertain origin, possibly related to Old English *wǣdlian*, meaning "to beg")
124
# Define:
volatile
| (**voll**-ih-tull)
adj. likely to change suddenly
adj. liable to lead to violence
adj. evaporating easily
## Footnote
The situation in the war-torn country soon became too _volatile_ for most reporters and travelers to stay there safely.
Root: *vola* (from Latin *volare*, meaning "to fly"); Suffix: *-tile* (from Latin *-tilis*, indicating capability or tendency)
125
# Define:
zenith
| (**zee**-nith)
n. the highest point or peak
n. the point directly above one's head
## Footnote
Climbing to the _zenith_ of the mountain will be difficult, but it has been a dream of mine since childhood.
Root: *zenith* (from Arabic *samt*, meaning "path" or "way")
126
# Define:
abjure
| (ab-**djoor**)
v. to renounce or reject solemnly; to recant or avoid
## Footnote
The monks had to _abjure_ all indulgences.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away from"); Root: *jur* (from Latin *jurare*, meaning "to swear")
127
# Define:
condign
| (kon-**dahyn**)
adj. deserved, adequate
## Footnote
Though I believe I am compassionate, I will not hesitate to mete out a _condign_ punishment to wrongdoers.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "with" or "together"); Root: *dign* (from Latin *dignus*, meaning "worthy")
128
# Define:
debonair
| (deb-uh-**nair**)
adj. suave, urbane, affable, genial, charming,stylish
## Footnote
The ladies were all drawn to the _debonair_ newcomer.
Prefix: *de-* (from Latin, meaning "of" or "from"); Root: *bon* (from Latin *bonus*, meaning "good"); Suffix: *-air* (from Old French, meaning "nature" or "disposition")
129
# Define:
inveigle
| (in-**vey**-guhl)
v. to obtain by deception or flattery
## Footnote
He _inveigled_ the information from the president's wife.
Root: *inveigle* (from Old French *avugler*, meaning "to blind")
130
# Define:
philistine
| (**fil**-uh-steen)
adj. barbaric; lacking culture
n. an individual guided by commonplace, rather than artistic or intellectual, values
## Footnote
Why, the _philistine_ even declared that he hated the theater!
Root: *philistine* (from Late Latin *Philistinus*, referring to a member of the Philistines, an ancient people)
131
# Define:
suffuse
| (suh-**fyooz**)
v. to spread through or over something, as with liquid, color, or light
## Footnote
The sky was _suffused_ with deep colors.
Prefix: *suf-* (variant of *sub-*, from Latin, meaning "under" or "below"); Root: *fuse* (from Latin *fundere*, meaning "to pour")
132
# Define:
mettlesome
| (**met**-uhl-sum)
adj. courageous, high-spirited
## Footnote
The _mettlesome_ police officer saved the hostage.
Root: *mettle* (variant of *metal*, meaning "spirit" or "courage"); Suffix: *-some* (from Old English, indicating possession of a quality)
133
# Define:
compunction
| (kuhm-**punk**-shun)
n. hesitation or unease at committing (or having committed) an act
## Footnote
A hardened criminal usually has no _compunction_ about hurting bystanders in order to evade the police.
Prefix: *com-* (from Latin, meaning "with" or "together"); Root: *punct* (from Latin *pungere*, meaning "to prick"); Suffix: *-ion* (from Latin, indicating an action or condition)
134
# Define:
contravene
| (kon-truh-**veen**)
v. to violate, or to conflict with a rule or principle
## Footnote
Until recently, Americans could not visit that country without _contravening_ federal law.
Prefix: *contra-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *vene* (from Latin *venire*, meaning "to come")
135
# Define:
limn
| (**lim**)
v. to draw; to describe; to depict
## Footnote
Here, the philosopher _limns_ a basic theory of just governance.
Root: *limn* (from Middle English *limnen*, meaning "to illuminate" or "to depict")
136
# Define:
obloquy
| (**ob**-luh-kwee)
n. abusive language; damage to one's reputation; disgrace
## Footnote
The president earned _obloquy_ for his tax hikes.
Prefix: *ob-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *loqu* (from Latin *loqui*, meaning "to speak")
137
# Define:
abate
| (uh-**behyt**)
v. to decrease in intensity
## Footnote
The ferocity of the fighting has started to _abate_, though the civilian population is still in great danger.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away from"); Root: *bate* (from Old French *batre*, meaning "to beat")
138
# Define:
abdicate
| (**ab**-dih-kate)
v. to willingly let go of; to relinquish
## Footnote
The king _abdicated_ the throne rather than expose his nation to a potentially crippling civil war.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away from"); Root: *dic* (from Latin *dicare*, meaning "to proclaim")
139
# Define:
aberrant
| (**ab**-buh-runt)
adj. abnormal, deviating from the norm
## Footnote
The _aberrant_ accounting numbers led officials to conclude that a crime had been committed.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away from"); Root: *err* (from Latin *errare*, meaning "to wander")
140
# Define:
abrade
| (uh-**brehyd**)
v. to erode or rub away
## Footnote
The statue's hand was _abraded_ from all of the tourists rubbing it for luck.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away from"); Root: *rade* (from Latin *radere*, meaning "to scrape")
141
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. loud and insistent, esp. to compel attention
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "v"*
vociferous
## Footnote
synonyms: clamorous, noisy, distracting, boisterous, uproarious
The _vociferous_ crowd demanded answers from the officials.
142
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_ led her to explore new countries every year.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'w'.*
wanderlust
## Footnote
*wanderlust (**wawn**-der-lust)*
n. the desire to travel
143
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to coax or persuade
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "w"*
wheedle
## Footnote
synonyms: to influence through flattery, to entice, coax, persuade
He tried to _wheedle_ his way into getting a free meal.
144
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The political climate became increasingly \_\_\_\_\_\_ as tensions rose between the opposing factions.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'v'.*
volatile
## Footnote
*volatile (**voll**-ih-tull)*
adj. likely to change suddenly
adj. liable to lead to violence
adj. evaporating easily
145
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. the highest point or peak
n. the point directly above one's head
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "z"*
zenith
## Footnote
synonyms: acme, summit, pinnacle, peak, apex
Reaching the _zenith_ of her career, she was celebrated worldwide.
146
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
He chose to \_\_\_\_\_\_ his previous beliefs in favor of a new philosophy.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
abjure
## Footnote
*abjure (ab-**djoor**)*
v. to renounce or reject solemnly; to recant or avoid
147
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. deserved, adequate
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
condign
## Footnote
synonyms: appropriate, proper, fair, deserved, fitting
The judge handed down a _condign_ sentence that matched the severity of the crime.
148
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ host made everyone feel at ease at the party.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'd'.*
debonair
## Footnote
*debonair (deb-uh-**nair**)*
adj. suave, urbane, affable, genial, charming
149
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to obtain by deception or flattery
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "i"*
inveigle
## Footnote
synonyms: manipulate, cajole, ensnare, entice, lure
He managed to _inveigle_ the secret from his friend by feigning interest.
150
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Despite his wealth, he was considered a \_\_\_\_\_\_ for his disregard of fine art and literature.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
philistine
## Footnote
*philistine (**fil**-uh-steen)*
adj. barbaric; lacking culture
n. an individual guided by commonplace, rather than artistic or intellectual, values
151
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to spread through or over something, as with liquid, color, or light
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
suffuse
## Footnote
synonyms: bathe, cover, saturate, permeate, infuse
The sunset _suffused_ the sky with brilliant shades of orange and pink.
152
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ knight charged bravely into battle.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'm'.*
mettlesome
## Footnote
*mettlesome (**met**-uhl-sum)*
adj. courageous, high-spirited
153
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. hesitation or unease at committing (or having committed) an act
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
compunction
## Footnote
synonyms: regret, sorrow, qualm, guilt, remorse
She felt a pang of _compunction_ after lying to her friend.
154
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
His actions \_\_\_\_\_\_ the company’s code of conduct.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'c'.*
contravene
## Footnote
*contravene (kon-truh-**veen**)*
v. to violate, or to conflict with a rule or principle
155
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to draw; to describe; to depict
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "l"*
limn
## Footnote
synonyms: characterize, chart, depict, illustrate, outline
The artist _limns_ the landscape with delicate strokes.
156
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The politician faced \_\_\_\_\_\_ after the scandal was exposed.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'o'.*
obloquy
## Footnote
*obloquy (**ob**-luh-kwee)*
n. abusive language; damage to one's reputation; disgrace
157
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to decrease in intensity
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
abate
## Footnote
synonyms: lessen, moderate, diminish, decrease, reduce
The storm began to _abate_, allowing us to go outside.
158
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The king chose to \_\_\_\_\_\_ rather than face civil unrest.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
abdicate
## Footnote
*abdicate (**ab**-dih-kate)*
v. to willingly let go of; to relinquish
159
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. abnormal, deviating from the norm
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
aberrant
## Footnote
synonyms: atypical, bizarre, deviant, abnormal, irregular
The _aberrant_ behavior of the dog raised concerns among its owners.
160
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The rough surface began to \_\_\_\_\_\_ the paint on the wall.
## Footnote
Hint: The word starts with 'a'.
abrade
## Footnote
*abrade (uh-**brehyd**)*
v. to erode or rub away
161
# Define:
abridge
| (uh-**bridge**)
v. to condense; to shorten
## Footnote
The author threw a fit when his editor suggested that he _abridge_ his novel in order to make it more accessible.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away")
162
# Define:
abscond
| (ab-**skond**)
v. to run away secretly and hide
## Footnote
The guilty man _absconded_ during the night and was never heard from again.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away")
163
# Define:
abstruse
| (ab-**strewss**)
adj. difficult to comprehend
## Footnote
That film has been praised as a visionary masterpiece, but I found it more _abstruse_ than enlightening.
Prefix: *ab-* (from Latin, meaning "away")
164
# Define:
accolade
| (**ack**-uh-lehyd)
n. recognition for an accomplishment
## Footnote
Cindy received _accolades_ in the media for her breathtaking performance.
Root: *col* (from Latin *collum*, meaning "neck")
165
# Define:
acerbic
| (uh-**sir-**bick)
adj. sour or bitter tasting, or of a bitter temperament
## Footnote
My friends' _acerbic_ reaction to bringing my boyfriend to the game led me to believe that they didn't care much for him.
Root: *acerb* (from Latin *acerbus*, meaning "bitter")
166
# Define:
acumen
| (**ack**-cue-men)
n. insightfulness
## Footnote
Kofi was known for his _acumen_ in literary analysis.
Root: *acu* (from Latin *acumen*, meaning "sharpness")
167
# Define:
adhesion
| (ad-**hee**-zhun)
n. the state of being physically attached
n. the state of belonging to an organization
## Footnote
_Adhesion_ to the regional economic union became a popular cause among the elites of the recession-weary nation.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
168
# Define:
admonish
| (ad-**mon**-ish)
v. to warn, to gently reprimand
## Footnote
The pilot _admonished_ the passengers to remain seated during take off.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
169
# Define:
adroit
| (ad-**royt**)
adj. skillful, competent
## Footnote
The boy scout was an _adroit_ survivalist and so managed to cling to life until a rescue team arrived.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
170
# Define:
adulate
| (**adge**-uh-lehyt)
v. to give excessive praise
## Footnote
Rather than _adulate_ his superiors, Moncef preferred to show his regard by emulating them.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
171
# Define:
affable
| (**aff**-uh-buhl)
adj. gentle, friendly, or of a kind nature
## Footnote
Stacy was an _affable_ acquaintance to many but a real friend to few.
Prefix: *af-* (variant of *ad-*, from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
172
# Define:
affluent
| (**aff**-loo-uhnt)
adj. wealthy
## Footnote
Membership in the private club was only open to _affluent_ members of society.
Prefix: *af-* (variant of *ad-*, from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
173
# Define:
aggrandize
| (uh-**gran**-dahyz)
v. to exaggerate; to increase the scope of or to make greater
## Footnote
Luke had _aggrandized_ his credentials so much that he was fired on the spot when it was discovered that he was just a novice.
Prefix: *ag-* (variant of *ad-*, from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
174
# Define:
affront
| (uh-**front**)
n. an offensive act or statement
v. to insult openly
## Footnote
Lucia's ingratitude was an _affront_ to all of us who had supported her.
Prefix: *af-* (variant of *ad-*, from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward")
175
# Define:
agrarian
| (uh-**grair**-ee-uhn)
adj. pertaining to farming or land matters
## Footnote
The farmer switched from his habitual _agrarian_ routine to that of a high-powered business CEO in just a few years.
Root: *agr* (from Latin *ager*, meaning "field")
176
# Define:
alacrity
| (uh-**lack**-ruh-tee)
n. enthusiasm; speed
## Footnote
Children approach their homework with more _alacrity_ if they know that a reward awaits them when they finish.
Root: *alacr* (from Latin *alacritas*, meaning "eagerness")
177
# Define:
vug
| (**vuhg**)
n. a small cavity in a rock
## Footnote
She hid her trinkets in the _vug_ for safekeeping.
Root: *vug* (from Cornish *vooga*, meaning "cave")
178
# Define:
petrous
| (**pet**-ruhss)
adj. rock-hard; stony
## Footnote
The skull of the fetus has not yet become _petrous_; in fact, it is still translucent to x-rays at this stage.
Root: *petr* (from Greek *petros*, meaning "rock")
179
# Define:
tautology
| (tawt-**aw**-luh-djee)
n. a statement that is trivially true; unnecessary repetition
## Footnote
It is no help to anybody when you spout _tautologies_ like "Whatever will be will be".
Root: *tauto* (from Greek *tautos*, meaning "the same")
180
# Define:
gambol
| (**gam**-buhl)
v. to skip playfully, to frolic
## Footnote
The youngsters went _gamboling_ through the fields.
Root: *gamb* (from Old French *gambade*, meaning "a leap")
181
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to condense; to shorten
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
abridge
## Footnote
synonyms: reduce, refine, abbreviate, shorten, condense
The editor decided to _abridge_ the lengthy manuscript.
182
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The thief managed to \_\_\_\_\_\_ with the jewelry before anyone noticed.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
abscond
## Footnote
*abscond (ab-**skond**)*
v. to run away secretly and hide
183
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. difficult to comprehend
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
abstruse
## Footnote
synonyms: abstract, enigmatic, incomprehensible, obscure, confusing
The professor's lecture on quantum physics was incredibly _abstruse_.
184
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
She received \_\_\_\_\_\_ for her outstanding contributions to science.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
accolades
## Footnote
*accolade (**ack**-uh-lehyd)*
n. recognition for an accomplishment
185
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. sour or bitter tasting or with bitter temperament
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
acerbic
## Footnote
synonyms: acrid, caustic, sharp, biting, sarcastic
His _acerbic_ comments often left others feeling hurt.
186
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
Her business \_\_\_\_\_\_ helped the company thrive in a competitive market.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
acumen
## Footnote
*acumen (**ack**-cue-men)*
n. insightfulness
187
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. the state of being physically attached
n. the state of belonging to an organization
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
adhesion
## Footnote
synonyms: adherence, membership, attachment, bonding, allegiance
The _adhesion_ of the paint to the wall was remarkable.
188
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The teacher \_\_\_\_\_\_ the student for being late.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
admonished
## Footnote
*admonish (ad-**mon**-ish)*
v. to warn, to gently reprimand
189
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. skillful, competent
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
adroit
## Footnote
synonyms: adept, apt, expert, skillful, proficient
His _adroit_ handling of the situation impressed everyone.
190
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The critics \_\_\_\_\_\_ the film as a masterpiece.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
adulated
## Footnote
*adulate (**adge**-uh-lehyt)*
v. to give excessive praise
191
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. gentle, friendly, or of a kind nature
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
affable
## Footnote
synonyms: cordial, pleasant, friendly, sociable, genial
Her _affable_ personality made her popular among her peers.
192
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ family hosted a lavish charity gala.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
affluent
## Footnote
*affluent (**aff**-loo-uhnt)*
adj. wealthy
193
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
v. to exaggerate; to increase the scope of
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
aggrandize
## Footnote
synonyms: enlarge, glorify, augment, amplify, elevate
She tried to _aggrandize_ her achievements during the interview."
194
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
His rude comment was seen as an \_\_\_\_\_\_ to her dignity.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
affront
## Footnote
*affront (uh-**front**)*
n. an offensive act or statement
v. to insult openly
195
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
adj. pertaining to farming or land matters
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
agrarian
## Footnote
synonyms: agricultural, country, rural, farming, pastoral
The _agrarian_ policies aim to support local farmers.
196
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
She accepted the invitation with \_\_\_\_\_\_.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'a'.*
alacrity
## Footnote
*alacrity (uh-**lack**-ruh-tee)*
n. enthusiasm; speed
197
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. a small cavity in a rock
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "v"*
vug
## Footnote
synonyms: cavity, depression, hole, recess, hollow
The geologist found a _vug_ filled with sparkling crystals.
198
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The \_\_\_\_\_\_ surface of the mountain made climbing challenging.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'p'.*
petrous
## Footnote
*petrous (**pet**-ruhss)*
adj. rock-hard; stony
199
# Which vocabulary word means the following?
n. a statement that is trivially true; unnecessary repetition
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
tautology
## Footnote
synonyms: equivalence, redundancy, repetition, circular reasoning, tautological statement
His explanation contained a _tautology_ that added no new information.
200
# Fill in the blank with the most appropriate vocabulary word.
The children began to \_\_\_\_\_\_ in the sunny meadow.
## Footnote
*Hint: The word starts with 'g'.*
gambol
## Footnote
*gambol (**gam**-buhl)*
v. to skip playfully, to frolic
