aberration = different from normal or usual
abettor = encourager
abnegation = repudiation, self-sacrifice
abominate = to hate
abrade = to rub off a surface
abstemious = Characterized by self denial or abstinence
accretion = grow in size or increase in amount
acerbity = bitterness of speech or temper
acetic = related to vinegar
acidulous = sour in taste or manner
acquiescence = Passive consent
acquittal = release from blame (as by a court)
actuarial = calculating
acuity = sharpness
addiction = compulsive, habitual need
addle = To make inefficient or unable to think
adjuration = solemn urging
adjure = to request solemnly
admonition = Genteelly point out mistake
agility = nimbleness
agitation = excitement, uneasiness
alimentary = supplying nourishment
allure = appeal, attract
allusion = indirect reference
alluvial = soil deposits left by rivers
amalgamate = To mix or join together to become one
amazon = female warrior
ambrosia = food of the Greek gods that provided immortal youth & beauty, anything sweet and pleasing
amphibian = creature that lives on land and water
amphitheater (british = amphitheatre) = oval-shaped theater
ample = enough, specious, abundant
amplify = enlarge, increase, intensify
anachronism = Anything occurring or existing out of its proper time
anathema = curse, ban
ancillary = supplementary, subsidiary, subordinate
andirons = metal supports in a fireplace
angular = Sharp-cornered or sharp angled
anneal = to gradually heat and cool in order to soften, reduce brittleness
annuity = An annual payment or income
annul = cancel, nullify
anodyne = pain soothing
anoint = consecrate, to apply oil, especially as a sacred rite
anomaly = deviation from the rule, irregularity
anonymity = state of being anonymous, having no name
antecede = To precede
antediluvian = ancient, obsolete, pre historic
anthropoid = manlike
anthropomorphous = Nonhuman having or resembling human form or quality
antithesis = direct opposite
apathetic = unconcerned, indifferent
aphasia = inability to speak or use words
aphorism = maxim, old saying
apiary = A place where bees are kept
aplomb = poise, confidence
apocryphal = a doubtful authenticity, not genuine, fictional
apogee = The climax
apostate = one who abandons one's faith
apothecary = One who keeps drugs for sale and puts up prescriptions
apothegm = a short saying
apotheosis = Deification, glorification
appraise = assess, evaluate the value
approbation = praise, official approval
appurtenances = subordinate possessions
aquiline = like an eagle, bent, booked, curved
arable = suitable for cultivation
arcade = a roofed passage between shops
archaeology = the study of ancient cultures by looking for and examining their buildings, tools
archaic = Antiquated, from an earlier time
archipelago = group of islands
ardor (british = ardour) = great emotion or passion
aromatic = fragrant
arraign = indict, to call to court to answer a charge
arrant = Notoriously bad
arrogate = seize without right, to demand or claim arrogantly
artifact (british = artefact) = an object made by human, of historical interest
artisan = a skilled handicraftsman
ascendancy = powerful state
asceticism = doctrine of self-denial
ascribe = to attribute
ashen = resembling ashes, or deathly pale
asinine = stupid
askance = to view with suspicion, scornfully
askew = crooked, tilted
asperity = roughness of temper
aspersion = slander, false rumor, damaging report
assail = attack
assay = to analyze or estimate
assent = to express agreement
assessment = estimation
assiduous = hard-working, diligent, persistent
assuage = lessen (pain), to make less severe, ease
astringent = causing contraction, severe, harsh
astronomical = enormously large or extensive
asunder = apart, into different parts
athwart = across, opposition
atone = make amends for a wrong
audit = formal examination of final records
augury = prophecy or prediction of events
august = noble, dignified, awe-inspiring, venerable
aureole = sun's corona, halo
auroral = pertaining to the aurora borealis
auscultation = act of listening to the heart or lungs to discover abnormalities
austerity = quality of being self disciplined
authoritarian = dictator, extremely strict, bossy
autocrat = dictator or a high ranking government officer
aver = to declare to be true
aversion = intense dislike
aviary = cage where birds are kept
avow = declare
awry = crooked, askew, amiss
axiom = self-evident truth, premise, postulate
bacchanal = orgy, drunkenly festive
baffle = to frustrate or unable to understand
baleful = hostile, malignant, harmful with evil intentions
balk = hesitate, refuse, shirk, prevent
banal = trite, overly common
bandanna = large, bright-colored handkerchief
bane = poison, nuisance, something causing ruin
banter = to tease playfully and in good humor
barb = sharp projection from fishhook
barrage = a lot of questions or criticism
barter = to give in exchange rather than paying money
bassoon = reed instrument of the woodwind family
bastion = fort, fortification, stronghold
bate = let down, restrain
bawdy = indecent, obscene
beatific = supremely happy, angelic, saintly
bedizen = dress with vulgar finery
bedraggle = wet thoroughly
befuddle = confuse thoroughly
beguile = deceive, seduce, mislead
behemoth = monster, huge creature
behoove = to be fit, to be right
beleaguer = besiege, to harass, plague
benighted = un enlightened
benignant = Benevolent in feeling, character
benison = Blessing
berate = to scold harshly
bereavement = state of being deprived of something valuable or beloved
bestial = beast-like, brutal
bestow = to give as a gift, grant
bete noire = aversion
betrothal = Engagement to marry
bevy = group
bibulous = Fond of drinking
bicker = quarrel, to have a petty argument
bifurcated = divided into two branches, forked
bigotry = discrimination, prejudice
bilious = ill-tempered
bilk = swindle, cheat, defraud
blanch = bleach, whiten, to take the color out
blandish = to coax with flattering, grovel
blasphemous = profane, impious
blatant = glaring, obvious, showy
blazon = print or decorate something in a very noticeable way
blight = decay, afflict, destroy
blithe = Joyful, cheerful, or without appropriate thought
bludgeon = to hit someone several times with a heavy object
blurt = to say something suddenly and without thinking, especially when you are excited or nervous
bolster = To support or make something strong
bombast = pompous speech
boorish = Rude
bouillon = clear beef soup
bountiful = abundant, plentiful
bourgeois = middle class
Bowdlerize = To expurgate in editing
braggadocio = someone who boasts
brazen = bold, shameless, impudent
brazier = An open pan or basin for holding live coals
breach = breaking of a rule, agreement, or law
brindled = tawny or grayish with streaks or spots
brittle = Fragile
broach = bring up a topic of conversation
brocade = rich, gaudy fabric
brooch = a piece of jewelry for women which is fastened onto clothes with a pin
brusque = curt, rough and abrupt in manner
buffoonery = coarse jokes, etc
bugaboo = bugbear, object of baseless terror
bulwark = fortification
bumptious = full of offensive self-conceit
bungle = to do something wrong in a very careless or stupid way
burgeon = sprout or flourish
burly = husky, brawny
burnish = To make brilliant or shining
buskin = thick-soled half boot worn by actors of Greek tragedy
buxom = plump, vigorous, jolly
cabal = plot, a secret group seeking to overturn something
cadaver = corpse, dead body
cajole = encourage, coax, flatter
calumny = Slander, false and malicious accusation
cameo = when someone famous appears for a short time in a film or play
canard = hoax, a lie
candor (british = candour) = frankness, honesty of expression
canker = any ulcerous sore, any evil
canny = clever and able to think quickly, especially about money or business
canto = part of an extended poem
canvass = survey, examine thoroughly
caparison = showy harnesser, ornamentation for a horse
caprice = A whim
capricious = fickle, impulsive, whimsical, without much thought
careen = swerve, to lean on one side
caricature = cartoon, exaggerated portrait
carillon = a set of bells capable of being played
carmine = rich red
carnal = of the flesh, sensual
carnivorous = meat-eating
carousal = To drink deeply and in boisterous or jovial manner
carp = to find faults, complain constantly
carte blanche = complete freedom to do what you want
caryatid = sculptured column of a female figure
caste = one of the hereditary classes in Hindu society
castigate = criticize, punish, chastise
cataclysm = catastrophe, disaster
catalyst = something that causes change without being changed
catapult = slingshot
catechism = book for religious instruction
cathartic = purgative, purifying, cleansing
catholic = universal, worldly
caucus = a small group within an organization or a meeting of such a group
cavalcade = a procession or sequence
cavil = quibble, raise trivial objections
cede = transfer ownership, to surrender possession of something
celerity = quick moving or acting
censor = to prohibit publication by law
censorious = condemning speech, severely critical
centaur = mythical figure, half man and half horse
centripetal = tending toward the center
cerebration = thought
cession = Surrender, as of possessions or rights
chaff = worthless products of an endeavor
chagrin = shame, embarrassment, humiliation
chalice = goblet, cup
champ = to chew noisily
chaotic = in utter disorder
chary = cautious, watchful, extremely shy
chasm = a long, deep, narrow hole in rock or ice
chastise = to criticize or punish someone
chattel = piece of personal property
chauvinist = a man who thinks men are better than women
cherubic = sweet, innocent
chicanery = trickery, fraud, deception
chide = scold, express disapproval
chimerical = imaginary, impossible
chiropodist = one who treats disorders of the feet
chivalrous = courteous to ladies
choleric = easily angered, short-tempered
churlish = rude, ungracious
ciliated = having minute hairs, one-celled animal
circlet = small ring, band
circumlocution = roundabout expression
circumscribe = To confine within bounds
circumspect = cautious, wary
circumvent = evade, avoid, to go around
citadel = fortress or stronghold
clairvoyant = who can see the future, having ESP
clamor (british = clamour) = noisy outcry
clangor (british = clangour) = loud, resounding noise
clarion = shrill, trumpet like sound
clavicle = collarbone
cleave = to split or separate, to stick, adhere
clemency = forgiveness, merciful leniency
climactic = relating to the highest point
clime = region, climate
cloister = refuge, to confine, seclude
coadjutor = assistant, colleague
coalesce = combine, to grow together
cockade = decoration worn on hat
coddle = to pamper, baby, treat indulgently
coeval = living at the same time as contemporary
cog = a spoke in a wheel, a small and unimportant person
cogent = well-put, convincing, logically forceful
cognate = from the same source, related
cognomen = family name, any name, nickname
cohesion = consistency
colander = utensil with perforated bottom used for straining
collage = a picture made by sticking small pieces of paper or other materials
collate = to sort or put in proper order
collier = worker in coal mine, ship carrying coal
colloquy = conference
collusion = conspiracy, collaboration, complicity
colossal = huge
comely = a woman who is attractive in appearance
comestible = something fit to be eaten
comeuppance = rebuke, one's deserved fate or punishment
comity = courteousness, civility
commodious = spacious
complaisant = Agreeable, friendly
complement = To make complete, perfect
complicity = guilt by association, knowing partnership in wrong doing
composure = Calmness of appearance
compress = to reduce, squeeze
compunction = remorse, regret
conclave = private meeting
concur = To agree
condign = adequate, deservedly severe
conflagration = large fire, big, destructive fire
confluence = flowing together, meeting of two streams, meeting place
confound = bewilder, to baffle, perplex
congeal = solidify, as a liquid freezing, to become thick or solid
conjecture = hypothesis, speculation, prediction
conjure = summon, to evoke a spirit, cast a spell
connivance = pretence of ignorance of something wrong, assistance or permission to offend
connubial = related to marriage or matrimony
consanguinity = related by blood, kinship
consecrate = make holy, dedicate to a goal, to declare sacred
consequential = important
constituent = electorate, component, part
constraint = something that limits what you can do
construe = interpret or to explain
continence = self-control, self-restraint
contrite = apologetic, deeply sorrowful and repentant for a wrong
contumacious = rebellious
contusion = A bruise
conundrum = enigma, puzzle or problem with no solution, riddle
convivial = sociable, festive, fond of eating, drinking, and people
convoke = convene, summon, to call together
coquette = woman who flirts
cormorant = greedy, rapacious bird
cornice = a decorative border around the walls of a room close to the ceiling
correlation = mutual relationship, association
corroborate = to confirm, verify
corrugate = to wrinkle or draw into folds
corsair = pirate ship
coterie = small group, group of people with a common interest or purpose
countenance = facial expression, to favor, support
covetous = very desirous of something, avaricious, greedy
cower = showing fear, to cringe in fear
coy = shy, modest
cozen = cheat, hoodwink, swindle
crabbed = sour, peevish
crass = crude, unrefined
craven = cowardly
credence = Belief, acceptance of something as true or real
credo = a set of beliefs
creed = Belief or principle
crepuscular = pertaining to twilight
cringe = cower, to shrink in fear
crone = hag
crotchet = a fancy, a whim, an eccentricity
cuisine = cookery, style of cooking
cul-de-sac = a blind alley, a trap
culmination = climax, final stage
culpable = blameworthy, guilty, responsible for wrong
cupidity = greed
curator = in charge of a library or museum
curmudgeon = boor, cranky person
dally = procrastinate, to act playfully or waste time
dappled = spotted
dastard = A base coward
daub = to paint carelessly, to smear
daunt = to frighten, subdue
dawdle = to waste time by trifling, to move slowly
debase = to degrade, or lower in quality or stature
debauch = to corrupt, seduce from virtue or duty
debenture = bond issued to secure a loan
debutante = a girl debuting into society
decadence = deterioration, decay (e.g. moral or cultural)
decapitate = kill by beheading
deciduous = shedding leaves, short-lived, temporary
declivity = a place that declines or slopes downwards
decollete = having a low-necked dress
decorous = seemly, proper, tasteful, socially correct
decrepit = Enfeebled, as by old age or some chronic infirmity
decry = castigate, to belittle, openly condemn
deducible = derived by reasoning
defalcate = to misuse money put in trust
defection = desertion
deference = courteously yielding to another, respect, honor
defile = pollute, to make unclean or dishonor
deft = skillful, dexterous
defunct = extinct, no longer existing, dead
deify = To regard as a god
deleterious = harmful, destructive, detrimental
deliquescent = capable of absorbing moisture from air and becoming liquid
deluge = a flood, to submerge, overwhelm
delusion = Mistaken conviction
delusive = deceptive, raising vain hopes
demagogue = An unprincipled politician, leader
demean = to degrade, humiliate, humble
demesne = domain
demolition = destruction
demoniacal = related to evil spirits, devilish
demur = take exception, to express doubts or objections
denigrate = defame, to slur or blacken someone's reputation
denotation = the exact literary meaning of a word, designation, definition
depilate = remove hair
depose = testify, to remove from a high position
depravity = immorality, sinfulness
deprecate = belittle, disparage
depreciate = To lessen the worth of
deranged = insane, delirious, maniacal
deride = To ridicule, to mock, make fun of
derision = Ridicule
derivative = copied or adapted, not original
dermatologist = one who studies the skin and its diseases
descant = discuss fully
descry = To discern, to discover or reveal
desecrate = profane, to abuse something sacred
desiccate = dehydrate, to dry completely
desideratum = that which is desired
despoil = to bereave, rob, plunder, strip of possessions
despondent = depressed, feeling discouraged and dejected
despotism = Any severe and strict rule
desultory = without direction in life, at random, rambling, unmethodical
detergent = cleansing agent
determinate = Definitely limited or fixed, conclusive
detonation = explosion
devolve = to roll down, to hand down
dexterous = skillful, adroit
diadem = crown
diatribe = long denunciation, bitter verbal attack
dichotomy = a division into two parts
didactic = instructional
diffidence = shyness, lack of confidence
dilettante = amateur, dabbler
dint = means, effort
dipsomaniac = a person having an uncontrollable desire for alcohol, inebriate
dirge = lament with music, funeral hymn
disabuse = correct, to free from a misconception
disapprobation = rejection, disapproval
disavowal = Denial
disburse = pay out
discomfit = To put to confusion, discomfort
disconsolate = inconsolable, unable to be consoled, extremely sad
discordant = harsh-sounding, badly out of tune
discrete = separate, distinct
discursive = rambling, wandering from topic to topic
disdain = to regard with scorn and contempt
dishabille = in a state of undress
dishearten = discourage, lose spirit
disingenuous = deceptive, sly and crafty
disjointed = disconnected, incoherent, being separated
dismember = cut into small parts
disparage = belittle, speak disrespectfully about
disparate = various, dissimilar, different in kind
disparity = difference, contrast, dissimilarity
dispirit = discourage, to dishearten, make dejected
disport = amuse
dissimulate = to disguise
dissipate = scatter
dissuasion = advise against
distaff = the female branch of a family
distend = swell, inflate, bloat
distraught = distressed, very worried
divergent = Tending in different directions
divination = The forecast of future events or discovery of what is lost or hidden
docile = domesticated, trained, tame
docket = a list of cases to be dealt with
doddering = shaky, infirm from old age
doff = take off
dolt = a stupid person
domineer = to rule over something in a tyrannical way
dorsal = belonging to the back side, posterior, tail
dotage = senility, mental decline
doughty = brave, dauntless
dour = sullen and gloomy, stern and severe
douse = to plunge into water, to extinguish
dowdy = slovenly, untidy
droll = amusing in a wry
dross = waste matter, worthless impurities
drudgery = Hard and constant work in any dull occupation
dulcet = melodious, pleasant sounding
duplicity = deceit, treachery, dishonesty, double-dealing
durance = confinement
duress = coercion, imprisonment
dwindle = To diminish or become less
dyspeptic = suffering from indigestion, gloomy and irritable
earthy = crude
ebb = recede, to fade away
ebullient = exuberant, full of enthusiasm and high spirits
eclectic = joyful
eclipse = The obstruction of Sun by moon, or of moon by earth
edify = instruct morally and spiritually
eerie = weird
efface = To obliterate
efflorescent = opening in flower
effluvium = noxious smells
effrontery = insolence
effulgent = brilliant
effusive = expressing emotion without restraint
elation = exhilaration, joy
elicit = provoke
eloquence = fluent and effective speech
elucidate = make clear, clarify
elusory = tending to deceive expectations
elysian = relating to paradise, blissful
emaciated = underfed, gaunt
emanate = to express a feeling or quality through the way one looks
embroil = involve, cause to fall into disorder
emend = correct
emendation = corrections of errors
emetic = a medicine that causes vomiting
emollient = cream for softening, making supple
emolument = salary or fees for a job, remuneration, pay scale
empyreal = celestial, fiery
encomiastic = praising, eulogistic
encomium = warm praise
encumber = burden, to hinder, restrict motion
endemic = Peculiar to some specified country or people
enervate = weaken, sap strength from
engender = generate, to produce
enigmatic = puzzling, inexplicable
enjoin = urge, order, command
ennui = boredom, lack of interest and energy
ensconce = to hide safely, settle comfortably
enthrall (british = enthral) = mesmerize, to captivate, enchant
entity = being, existence
entreat = plead, beg
enunciate = verbalize, articulate
epicure = gourmet, person with refined taste in food and wine
epigram = saying, short, witty saying or poem
epilogue = The close of a narrative or poem
epithet = name, appellation, phrase
epitome = A simplified representation
equestrian = one who rides on horseback
equine = pertaining to horses
equity = impartiality, justice
equivocal = Ambiguous, open to two interpretations
erode = wear away, to diminish
errant = wandering, mistaken
eschew = avoid, to abstain from
espouse = to support or advocate
estranged = alienated, separated
eulogy = high praise
euthanasia = mercy-killing
evanescent = fleeting, very brief, short-lived
evince = attest, demonstrate, to show clearly
exacerbate = worsen
exasperate = irritate, vex
excoriate = to denounce
exculpate = to clear of blame or fault
execrable = very bad, abominable, utterly detestable
exemplary = outstanding, serving as an example
exhort = strongly urge
exhume = uncover, to remove from a grave
exonerate = free from blame
exorcise = to expel evil spirits
exotic = Foreign, romantic
expatiate = to discuss in detail, elaborate
expatriate = who does not live in one's own country
expedient = advantageous, convenient, efficient
expiate = atone, make amends for
expunge = erase, eliminate completely
expurgate = to purify by removing obscenities
extemporaneous = unrehearsed
extenuate = To diminish the gravity or importance of
extol = praise highly
extraneous = not essential, unnecessary
extricate = Disentangle, free
extrinsic = not inherent or essential, coming from without
extrovert = an outgoing person
exuberant = joyous, happy
exude = emit, ooze
exult = rejoice
fabricate = construct
facetious = joking, sarcastic, witty
facile = very easy
fallible = Capable of erring
fallow = unproductive, unplowed
fastidious = meticulous, careful with details
fathom = understand, to measure the depth of
fatuous = inane, stupid
fealty = Loyalty
fecund = fertile, fruitful, productive
feign = pretend, give a false impression
felicitous = very appropriate, pertinent
fell = to chop, cut down
fervid = fervent, passionate
fetid = foul-smelling, putrid, stinking
fetter = to restrain, to bind
fickle = always changing one's mind
fidelity = Loyalty
filch = steal something of little value
filial = of a son or daughter
finicky = meticulous, fussy
fissure = a crack or break
fitful = irregular
flaccid = limp, flabby, weak
flagrant = outrageous, shameless
flair = a natural aptitude
flamboyant = Characterized by extravagance
flaunt = to show off
fledgling = just beginning, struggling
flippant = Having a light, pert, trifling disposition
flora = plants
florid = ruddy, with too much decoration
flout = to show disregard for the law or rules
fluster = confuse
foible = weakness, minor fault
foist = palm off a fake
foment = instigate
forbearance = Patient endurance or toleration of offenses
forte = A strong point
fortuitous = happening by luck, fortunate
foster = encourage
fracas = noisy fight
fractious = wayward, unruly, disorderly
fraudulent = Counterfeit
fraught = filled
frenetic = harried, neurotic
frenzied = feverishly fast, hectic
frond = bending tree
fulminate = denounce, menace
fulsome = excessive, insincere
funereal = mournful, appropriate to a funeral
furtive = stealthy
fusion = union, coalition
gainsay = to deny
gall = bitterness, nerve
gambol = Playful leaping or frisking
gargantuan = large
garner = gather
garrulous = talkative, loquacious, wordy
gauche = awkward, crude
gaunt = thin, emaciated
genre = kind, category
germinate = To begin to develop into an embryo or higher form
gibe = heckle
glib = insincere manner
glower = stare angrily
goad = encourage
gossamer = thin and flimsy
gouge = overcharge, scoop out
grimace = expression of disgust
grovel = crawl, obey
guile = deceit, trickery
gustatory = relevant to the sense of tasting
hackneyed = trite
hallow = to make holy
hapless = unlucky
harangue = a pompous speech
harbinger = forerunner
haughty = arrogant
hedonism = the pursuit of pleasure in life
heinous = shocking, wicked
hermetic = airtight, sealed
heterogeneous = composed of unlike parts, different
hew = to cut with an ax
hiatus = interruption
hoary = white, old
holocaust = widespread destruction
hone = sharpen
hypothetical = theoretical, speculative
ignominious = Shameful
illimitable = limitless
imbue = infuse, dye, wet
immune = Exempt, as from disease
immure = build a wall around
impair = injure
impassive = calm, without feeling
impeccable = faultless
impecunious = indigent, having no money
imperious = domineering
impertinent = insolent, rude
imperturbable = calm
impervious = Impenetrable
impetuous = quick to act without thinking
impious = not devout in religion
implacable = doubtful, dubious
implausible = unlikely, inconceivable
impolitic = unwise
importune = urgent request
impregnable = totally safe from attack
improvident = lacking foresight or thrift
imprudent = unwise
impugn = criticize
inadvertent = unintentional
inane = vacuous, stupid
incandescent = brilliant
incarcerate = to put in a jail
incarnadine = blood-red in color
incendiary = burning easily, flammable
inception = The beginning
inchoate = just begun
incipient = beginning to exist
incisive = keen, penetrating
incognito = disguised
incommunicado = unable to communicate with others
inconsequential = Valueless
incontrovertible = Indisputable
inculcate = instill, indoctrinate, to teach
incumbent = obligatory, required
incursion = raid
indefatigable = never getting tired
indenture = bound to another by contract
indicative = suggestive, implying
indict = charge with a crime
indigenous = Native
indigent = very poor
indisputable = not disputed, unquestioned
indolent = lazy
indomitable = invincible, fearless
indubitable = unquestionable
inexorable = relentless, inflexible
infallible = incapable of making a mistake
infantile = childish, immature
infernal = hellish
infirmity = ailment, disease
ingenuous = naïve and unsophisticated
ingrate = ungrateful person
ingratiate = pleasing, flattering, endearing
inimical = adverse, hostile, unfriendly
injurious = harmful
innocuous = Harmless
innovate = to invent, modernize
innuendo = indirect and subtle criticism
inscrutable = cannot be fully understood
insinuate = to suggest, imply, say indirectly
insipid = flat, dull, lacking flavor
insolent = insulting
insular = narrow-minded, isolated
insuperable = insurmountable
insurgent = rebellious
insurrection = uprising, rebellion
integrity = decency, honest, wholeness
inter = bury
interdict = prohibit
interloper = intruder, meddler in others' affairs
interminable = unending
intermittent = starting and stopping
internecine = mutually destructive
interstice = a small space between things
intransigent = uncompromising
intrepid = fearless
introspective = looking within oneself
introvert = To turn within
inundate = flood
invective = verbal insult
inveigh = to rail against, protest strongly
inveterate = habitual, chronic, long-standing
invidious = incurring ill-will
invoke = request assistance or protection
iota = A small mark or part
irascible = irritable
iridescent = showing many colors
irreverent = disrespectful
itinerant = Wandering, unsettled
jaded = spent, bored with one's situation
jaundice = disease of yellowish discoloration of skin
jettison = to throw overboard, abandon
jingoism = extremely aggressive and militant patriotism
juggernaut = unstoppable force
kismet = fate
knell = sound of a funeral bell
lachrymose = tearful
lackadaisical = Listless, idle
lackluster (british = lacklustre) = dull, dreary, colorless
lampoon = satirize, to attack with satire
languor = Lassitude of body or depression
lapidary = relating to precious stones
larceny = theft of property
largess = generous donation
latitude = freedom from narrow limitations
laudable = Praiseworthy
legerdemain = trickery
levity = Frivolity, humor
lexicon = A dictionary
libertine = one without moral restraint
licentious = lewd, immoral
limpid = transparent, clearly understood
lionize = treat as a celebrity
lissome (british = lissom) = agile, supple
lithe = moving and bending with ease
litigation = lawsuit
loathe = abhor, hate
loiter = dawdle, loaf
loquacious = Talkative
lugubrious = sad, sorrowful
lull = moment of calm
lunar = related to the moon
lurid = glowing, shocking
luscious = Rich, sweet, and delicious
macabre = gruesome
machination = plot or scheme
maelstrom = whirlpool, agitated state of mind
malapropism = comical misuse of a word
malcontent = one who is forever dissatisfied
malediction = curse
malefactor = evildoer, culprit
malodorous = fetid, foul-smelling
manifold = multiple, diverse
maritime = Situated on or near the sea
martial = warlike, pertaining to the military
martinet = strict disciplinarian
masochist = one who enjoys pain
maudlin = weepy, sentimental
maverick = a person who resists adherence to a group
mawkish = sickeningly sentimental
meander = to wander aimlessly without direction
megalomania = mental state with delusions of wealth and power
mendacious = Untrue
mendicant = beggar
mercurial = changeable, volatile, quick
meretricious = Alluring by false or gaudy show
metaphor = figure of speech comparing two different things
mettle = courage, capacity for bravery
microcosm = The world on a small scale
migratory = Wandering from place to place with the seasons
minatory = threatening
mirth = jollity, laughter
miscreant = one who behaves criminally
mishap = Misfortune
missive = letter or note
mnemonic = related to memory
modicum = a small amount
mollify = to calm or make less severe
molt = to shed hair, skin periodically
monastic = related to monks
monotony = A lack of variation
moot = disputable, previously decided
morbid = abnormally gloomy
mordant = biting, sarcastic
mores = moral standards, customs
moribund = near death
mote = speck, small particle
motley = diverse, many colored
multifarious = diverse, many-sided
munificent = generous
myriad = innumerable
naiveté = a lack of worldly wisdom
nascent = incipient, coming into existence
natal = related to birth
necromancy = sorcery, black magic
Nemesis = implacable foe, often victorious opponent
neologism = new word or expression
neophyte = beginner
nether = located under or below
nettle = irritate
niggardly = stingy
nihilism = a belief in nothing, extreme skepticism
noisome = harmful, stinking
nomadic = moving from place to place
non sequitur = an irrelevant conclusion
nonentity = person of no significance
nuptial = relating to marriage
obdurate = unyielding
obeisance = homage, deference
obfuscate = bewilder, muddle, to confuse
objurgate = to chide, scold
oblique = indirect
obliterate = destroy
obloquy = slander, abusive language
obsequious = fawning, servile, overly submissive
obsequy = funeral ceremony
obstinate = stubborn
obstreperous = noisy, unruly, troublesome
obtuse = stupid, dull
occlude = block, to shut
odious = despicable, hateful
omnivorous = eating everything
onerous = burdensome
opalescent = iridescent, displaying colors
opportunist = One who takes advantage of circumstances
opprobrious = abusive, disgraceful
ordain = appoint
orifice = a small opening
ornithologist = scientist who studies birds
orotund = pompously said
ossify = harden
ostensible = apparent, seeming
ostentatious = pretentious, showy
overt = open to view
overweening = arrogant, forward
pacifist = one who opposes all violence
paean = a song of praise
palaver = babble, nonsense
palette = board for mixing paints
pall = to become dull or weary
palliate = to make less serious, ease
pallid = pale, sallow, lacking color or liveliness
palpable = touchable, obvious, real
paltry = scarce, pitifully small or worthless
panache = flamboyance, flair
pandemic = spread over a whole area or country
panegyric = praise
panoply = full suit of armor
paradox = seemingly in contradiction
paragon = model of excellence or perfection
parasite = one who lives at another's expense
pariah = outcast
parley = conference, discussion
parry = avert, ward off, reflect
partisan = supporter
pastiche = imitation of another's style
patent = the right to make or sell a new invention
pathos = emotion, feeling of sadness
patrician = aristocrat
patricide = murder of one's own father
patrimony = inheritance or heritage derived from one's father
peccadillo = a minor fault
peculation = theft of money or goods
pedagogue = dull, formal teacher
pedant = a person who is too interested in formal rules and small unimportant details
pediatrician (british = paediatrician) = a child doctor
pediment = triangular gable on a roof or façade
pejorative = insulting, having bad connotations
pellucid = transparent, easily understood
penance = voluntary suffering to repent for a wrong
penchant = inclination
penitent = repentant
pensive = sad
penumbra = partial shadow in an eclipse
perdition = damnation, complete ruin
peremptory = dictatorial
perennial = enduring, lasting
perfidious = treacherous ( of a person )
perfunctory = careless, done in a routine way
peripatetic = moving from place to place
permeable = penetrable
pernicious = destructive
pert = flippant, bold
pertinacious = persevering
pertinent = Relevant, applicable
perusal = reading carefully
philistine = barbarian, narrow-minded person
philology = study of words
phlegmatic = sluggish, someone who is calm
pillory = punish by ridicule
pique = sting, arouse interest
pithy = concise, to the point
pittance = alms, trifle
placid = Serene, calm
plaintiff = injured person in a lawsuit
plangent = plaintive, resounding sadly
platitude = trite remark, stale
plebeian = common, vulgar
plenitude = Abundance
plethora = overabundance
poignant = pungent, sharp, emotionally moving
polemic = a controversy
politic = expedient, prudent, well devised
polyglot = Speaking several tongues
portend = omen
portly = large, dignified
potable = suitable for drinking
potentate = sovereign, king
prattle = chatter, foolish talk
precept = principle, law
precipice = cliff, edge
precipitous = steep
precocious = advanced
precursor = forerunner
predilection = inclination, preference
premeditate = plan in advance
preponderance = predominance
preposterous = ridiculous, illogical
presage = omen, indicate in advance
presentiment = sense of foreboding
primordial = existing at the beginning, rudimentary
privation = lack of usual necessities or comforts
probity = integrity, complete honesty
proclivity = inclination, tendency
prodigal = wasteful
prodigious = marvelous, enormous
profligate = licentious, prodigal, corrupt
progenitor = ancestor
progeny = children
prognosis = forecast
prognosticate = foretell
prolix = long-winded, wordy
promontory = headland, cape
promulgate = publish, disseminate
propagate = To spread
propensity = inclination
propinquity = nearness, kinship
propitiate = satisfy, to win over
propitious = auspicious, favorable
prosaic = uninspired, flat, dull
proscribe = prohibit, to condemn
proselytize (british = proselytise) = recruit, convert
protean = changing readily
protract = To prolong, extend
provident = having foresight, thrifty
prude = puritan
prudent = cautious, careful
prurient = exhibiting lewd desires
puerile = Childish
pugnacious = combative, quarrelsome
pulchritude = beauty
pummel = beat, attack
punctilious = careful in observing rules of behavior or ceremony
pungent = sharp smell or taste
purport = claim to be
pusillanimous = cowardly
putrid = dirty, rotten
quaff = to drink heartily
quagmire = difficult situation
quandary = dilemma, difficulty
quell = suppress, allay
querulous = complaining
quibble = to argue about insignificant and irrelevant details
quiescent = still, motionless, at rest
quintessence = The most essential part of anything
Quixotic = impractical, romantic
raconteur = story teller
rampant = unbridled, raging
ramshackle = dilapidated, falling to pieces
rancor (british = rancour) = resentment, dislike
rant = rage, scold
rapacious = grasping, avaricious, greedy
rapprochement = reconciliation
ratiocination = reasoning
raucous = Harsh sounding
ravenous = extremely hungry
raze = destroy
reactionary = related to, or favoring reaction
recalcitrant = resisting authority or control
recant = retract a statement
recidivism = habitual criminal activity
reciprocate = To give and take mutually
recondite = known to only a few
recreant = coward, betrayer of faith
rectitude = moral uprightness
refectory = dining hall
refractory = obstinate
regal = royal
regimen = government rule, systematic plan
rehabilitate = To restore to a former status
relegate = assign to an inferior position
remediable = capable of being corrected
reminiscence = remembrance of past events
remonstrate = to protest or object
renegade = rebel, dissident
renege = break a promise
replete = complete
reprehensible = blameworthy, unacceptable
reproach = blame
reprobate = morally unprincipled person
reprove = to criticize or correct
repudiate = to reject as having no authority
requiem = rest, a mass for the dead
requite = to return in kind
rescind = revoke, cancel
resilient = the quality of springing back
respite = interval or relief
resplendent = shining, splendid
restitution = act of compensating for loss or damage
restive = nervous, uneasy
retinue = group of attendants
retort = quick replay
retrench = reorganize, to regroup
retrieve = reclaim
retroactive = applying to an earlier time
retrograde = regress
revelry = merrymaking
revere = honor
revile = to criticize with harsh language
revulsion = aversion
ribald = coarse, vulgar
rife = widespread, abundant
risque = off-color, racy
rococo = ornate, highly decorated
roil = to disturb or cause disorder
rostrum = stage for public speaking
ruminate = reflect upon
rustic = rural
sacrosanct = sacred
sagacious = wise
sallow = sickly yellow in color
salubrious = healthy
sanguine = cheerful
sapient = wise, shrewd
sardonic = scornful
saunter = walk in a leisurely manner
savant = scholar
schism = a division or separation
scintilla = very small amount
scintillate = sparkle
scoff = ridicule
scurrilous = abusive, insulting
secular = worldly, nonreligious
sedition = treason, resistance to authority
sensual = related to the physical senses
sententious = concise, trying to appear wise
sequester = to remove or set apart
seraphic = angelic, pure
serendipity = making fortunate discoveries
serenity = calm, peacefulness
serrated = toothed, with a zigzag edge
servile = slavish, obedient
simian = monkey like
simper = smile foolishly, smirk
sinecure = well paid position with little responsibility
sinuous = Curving in and out
skulk = sneak about
slake = to calm down or moderate
sloth = laziness
slough = to discard or shed
slovenly = sloppy
sluggard = lazy, inactive person
sobriety = composed
sobriquet = nickname
sodden = soaked
sojourn = trip, visit
solace = consolation
solecism = ungrammatical construction
solicitous = considerate, concerned
soliloquy = A monologue
solstice = furthest point
somber (british = sombre) = Gloomy
somnambulist = sleepwalker
somnolent = Sleepy
sophist = person good at arguing deviously
sophomoric = immature and overconfident
soporific = sleep inducing
sordid = foul, ignoble, dirty and unpleasant
spawn = produce
specious = false but plausible
sporadic = occurring irregularly
sportive = playful
spurn = reject
squalid = filthy
staccato = marked by abrupt, clear-cut sounds
staid = demure, sedate, boring
steadfast = loyal, immovable
stentorian = extremely loud
stigma = mark of disgrace
stilted = formal, stiff, unnatural
stoic = indifferent to pain or pleasure
stolid = impassive
stratagem = trick
stricture = negative criticism
strident = rough, harsh, caustic, loud
stultify = inhibit, enfeeble
stymie = hinder, thwart
suave = smooth
sublimate = to repress impulses
sublime = lofty, excellent
subliminal = subconscious, imperceptible
subterfuge = cunning, ruse
succinct = Concise
succulent = juicy, delicious
sully = stain
superannuated = retired
supercilious = arrogant
superficial = shallow and phony
supplant = replace
supple = Easily bent
surly = rude, crass
surmise = to guess
surmount = overcome
surreptitious = secretive
sustenance = supplying the necessities of life
swarthy = dark (as in complexion)
Sybarite = pleasure-seeker, lover of luxury
sycophant = flatterer, flunky
synchronous = happening at the same time
synthetic = artificial, imitation
taciturn = who does not talk much
tainted = contaminated, corrupt
talisman = an object supposed to bring good luck
talon = claw of an animal
tantamount = equivalent
tawdry = gaudy, cheap
temerity = boldness
temporal = limited by time, secular, not lasting forever
tenacious = persistent
tendentious = biased
tenet = doctrine, principle
tensile = capable of being stretched
tenuous = thin, insubstantial
tepid = lukewarm
terse = concise, brief
tether = tie down, tie with a rope
theocracy = government by the priests
therapeutic = medicinal
thrall = slave
threnody = a sad poem or song, dirge
thwart = to block or prevent from happening
timorous = fearful, timid
tirade = scolding speech
toady = fawner, sycophant
torpid = lethargic, inactive
tortuous = with bends or turns
transcend = To surpass
transient = fleeting, temporary
translucent = clear, lucid, almost transparent
transmute = To change in nature or form
travesty = caricature, farce, parody
tremulous = trembling, fearful
trenchant = incisive, penetrating
trepidation = fear
tribute = a gift or statement showing respect
trite = commonplace, insincere
truculent = fierce, savage, tending to argue a lot
truism = self-evident truth
tryst = meeting, rendezvous
tumult = commotion
tundra = treeless plain found in Arctic or sub arctic regions
turbid = muddy, clouded
turbulence = violent agitation
turgid = Swollen, not flowing
turpitude = Depravity, evil
tyro = beginner
umbrage = resentment
unctuous = insincere
unkempt = messy in appearance
unobtrusive = inconspicuous, not blatant
unsullied = spotless
upbraid = to scold sharply
usurp = seize, to appropriate
usury = overcharge, lending money at illegal rates of interest
vacillate = To waver
vacuous = inane, empty, not showing intelligence or purpose
vagrant = An idle wanderer
vapid = vacuous, insipid
variegated = many-colored
vaunted = boasted, bragged
venal = willing to do wrong for money
vendetta = grudge, feud
venerable = respected because of age
vent = small opening, outlet
veracious = truthful, accurate
verdant = green, lush
verisimilitude = appearance of being true
verity = Truth
vernal = related to spring
versatile = adaptable, all-purpose
vex = annoy, to irritate
vicarious = substitute, surrogate
vicissitude = changing fortunes
vie = compete
vignette = scene, decorative design
vilify = defame
vindicate = free from blame
virile = manly
virulent = deadly, poisonous
viscous = sticky, gluey, thick
vitiate = spoil, ruin
vitriolic = scathing, burning
vociferous = adamant, clamoring
volition = free will
voluminous = bulky, extensive, or great quantity
wallow = indulge, luxuriate
wan = sickly pale
wane = dissipate, wither
warranty = guarantee of a product's soundness
wary = guarded, careful
wax = increase, grow
weather = endure the effects of weather or other forces
welter = confusion, hodgepodge
whet = stimulate, to sharpen
wily = shrewd, clever
winsome = charming
wizened = shriveled
wraith = ghost
wrangle = loud quarrel
wry = twisted, amusing
yoke = join together, unite
zephyr = gentle breeze, west wind
