1
Q
Define:
pedant
(ped-ant)
A
n. someone who shows off knowledge
n. someone who pays undue attention to rules
Dominic is a pedant who annoys everyone in the class with his long-winded questions and unnecessary quotes from the textbook.
Root: ped (from Greek paideia, meaning “education” or “child”)
2
Q
Define:
penchant
(pen-chunt)
A
n. a strong preference for something
Kate had a penchant for interior decorating, so she took over the role of set designer for the play.
Root: pend (from Latin pendere, meaning “to hang”)
3
Q
Define:
penury
(pen-yuh-ree)
A
n. extreme poverty or destitution
Having lived in penury their whole lives, the townspeople were very grateful for the donations sent by the charitable organization.
Root: pen (from Latin penuria, meaning “want” or “scarcity”)
4
Q
Define:
tangent
(tan-djunt)
A
n. a different topic
adj. touching
Halfway into her speech on global warming, she went on a tangent about materialism in modern society.
Root: tang (from Latin tangere, meaning “to touch”)
5
Q
Define:
technocracy
(teck-knock-ruh-see)
A
n. rule by scientists
In the movie, the future is a technocracy where programmers rule the entire world.
Prefix: techno- (from Greek techne, meaning “art” or “skill”); Suffix: -cracy (from Greek kratos, meaning “power” or “rule”)
6
Q
Define:
tedium
(tee-dee-um)
A
n. dullness
n. the feeling of being bored
The tedium of a fixed routine made John reconsider his plans to become a teacher.
Root: ted (from Latin taedium, meaning “weariness”)
7
Q
Define:
tenacious
(tuh-nay-shuss)
A
adj. sticking strongly to something
adj. having greater than average longevity
adj. stubborn
Despite the sudden thunderstorm, the tenacious runners continued to move towards the finish line.
Root: ten (from Latin tenere, meaning “to hold”); Suffix: -acious (indicating a tendency or quality)
8
Q
Define:
timorous
(tim-er-us)
A
adj. easy to frighten
The timorous young man jumped at even the slightest sound.
Root: timor (from Latin timor, meaning “fear”); Suffix: -ous (indicating possessing or full of)
9
Q
Define:
tirade
(tahy-raid)
A
n. a long, angry rant
One student asked a simple question about the death penalty, causing the teacher to launch into a tirade about the topic.
Root: tir (from French tirade, meaning “a long speech”)
10
Q
Define:
torpid
(tore-pid)
A
adj. lacking physical or mental energy
The student was torpid and generally uninvolved in discussions, so the teacher had to speak with him about his participation.
Root: torp (from Latin torpere, meaning “to be numb or sluggish”)
11
Q
Define:
torpor
(tore-per)
A
n. a state of low physical or mental energy
The doctors discovered that her torpor was a symptom of a severe illness.
Root: torp (from Latin torpere, meaning “to be numb or sluggish”)
12
Q
Define:
torrid
(tore-id)
A
adj. extremely hot
adj. having intense emotion or passion
The president was accused of carrying on a secret and torrid love affair with his aide.
Root: torr (from Latin torrere, meaning “to parch or scorch”)
13
Q
Define:
totalitarianism
(toe-tal-ih-tare-ee-un-izm)
A
n. absolute, dictatorial control by the government
After years of civil war, one party emerged triumphant and dominated the country in a return to totalitarianism.
Root: total (from Latin totalis, meaning “whole”); Suffix: -arian (indicating a person who advocates or practices something); Suffix: -ism (indicating a system or practice)
14
Q
Define:
tractable
(track-tuh-bul)
A
adj. easy to handle or control
adj. easily shaped
After some training, the dog became tractable enough to be sold as a pet.
Root: tract (from Latin tractare, meaning “to handle or manage”); Suffix: -able (indicating capable of being)
15
Q
Define:
anomalous
(uh-nom-ih-luss)
A
adj. different from the norm; aberrant
The new shampoo was a success, although there were a few anomalous cases in which it actually damaged consumers’ hair.
Prefix: an- (from Greek an-, meaning “not”); Root: omal (from Greek homalos, meaning “even” or “regular”); Suffix: -ous (indicating possessing or full of)
16
Q
Define:
antipathy
(an-tip-uh-thee)
A
n. aversion; loathing
The couple tried to hide their antipathy toward the new neighbors so as not to seem unwelcoming.
Prefix: anti- (from Greek anti-, meaning “against”); Root: path (from Greek pathos, meaning “feeling” or “suffering”)
17
Q
Define:
approbate
(ap-ruh-behyt)
A
v. to approve
The judge approbated her right to keep the house.
Prefix: ap- (variant of ad-, from Latin, meaning “to”); Root: prob (from Latin probare, meaning “to test” or “to prove”)
18
Q
Define:
appropriate
(uh-pro-pree-ehyt)
A
v. to take by force
v. to assign for a certain purpose
During the chaos following the president’s death, his wife appropriated the role of head of the organization.
Prefix: ap- (variant of ad-, from Latin, meaning “to”); Root: propri (from Latin proprius, meaning “one’s own”); Suffix: -ate (indicating to make or to act)
19
Q
Define:
arbiter
(are-bih-ter)
A
n. a person chosen to solve a dispute
One of her duties as babysitter was to act as arbiter when the children got into arguments.
Root: arbit (from Latin arbiter, meaning “judge” or “witness”)
20
Q
Define:
archetype
(are-kih-tahyp)
A
n. a typical example of something
n. the original on which something else is modeled
Dante’s Divine Comedy was the archetype upon which many derivative works were based.
Prefix: arch- (from Greek archi-, meaning “chief” or “principal”); Root: type (from Greek typos, meaning “model” or “impression”)
21
Q
Name the vocab term:
n. someone who shows off knowledge
n. someone who pays undue attention to rules
Hint: starts with “p”
A
pedant
synonyms: sophist, doctrinaire, know-it-all, stickler, nitpicker, formalist
His friends often described him as a pedant, constantly correcting their grammar.
The teacher was a pedant who enforced every rule strictly, leaving little room for creativity.
22
Q
Fill in the blank:
She has a ________ for classic literature, often choosing to read novels from the 19th century.
Hint: Starts with “p” and means “a strong liking or tendency”.
A
penchant
penchant (pen-chunt)
n. a strong preference for something
23
Q
Name the vocab term:
n. extreme poverty or destitution
Hint: starts with “p”
A
penury
synonyms: squalor, deprivation, destitution, impoverishment, hardship
The charity aims to alleviate the penury faced by many families in the community.
24
Q
Fill in the blank:
During the meeting, he went off on a ________ about his vacation plans, losing track of the main agenda.
Hint: Starts with “t” and means “a completely different line of thought”.
A
tangent
tangent (tan-djunt)
n. a different topic
25
# Name the vocab term:
n. rule by scientists
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
technocracy
## Footnote
synonyms: scientific rule, technological governance, expert management
In a _technocracy_, decisions are made based on scientific data and expertise rather than politics.
26
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of the repetitive tasks made him dread going to work each day.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "the state of being boring or monotonous".*
tedium
## Footnote
*tedium (**tee**-dee-um)*
n. dullness
n. the feeling of being bored
27
# Name the vocab term:
adj. sticking strongly to something
adj. having greater than average longevity
adj. stubborn
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
tenacious
## Footnote
synonyms: adamant, persistent, determined, resolute, unyielding
The _tenacious_ grip of the adhesive ensured that the tiles stayed firmly in place.
His _tenacious_ attitude made it difficult for him to accept any form of criticism.
28
# Fill in the blank:
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ nature made her hesitant to speak in public.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "showing fear or lack of confidence".*
timorous
## Footnote
*timorous (**tim**-er-us)*
adj. easy to frighten
29
# Name the vocab term:
n. a long, angry rant
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
tirade
## Footnote
synonyms: abuse, outburst, berating, diatribe, rant, harangue
His _tirade_ against the new policy left everyone in the room stunned.
30
# Fill in the blank:
After the long meeting, he felt \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ and needed a break.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "sluggish or inactive".*
torpid
## Footnote
*torpid (**tore**-pid)*
adj. lacking physical or mental energy
31
# Name the vocab term:
n. a state of low physical or mental energy
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
torpor
## Footnote
synonyms: dormancy, apathy, stagnation, lethargy, indifference
During the heat of summer, many people experience a sense of _torpor_.
32
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ sun beat down on the desert, making it unbearable to walk outside.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "intensely hot or passionate".*
torrid
## Footnote
*torrid (**tore**-id)*
adj. extremely hot
adj. having intense emotion or passion
33
# Name the vocab term:
n. absolute, dictatorial control by the government
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
totalitarianism
## Footnote
synonyms: dictatorship, tyranny, authoritarianism, oppression, despotism, regime
In a _totalitarianism_, the state exerts complete control over all aspects of public and private life.
34
# Fill in the blank:
The dog was surprisingly \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, following commands without hesitation.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "easily controlled or managed".*
tractable
## Footnote
*tractable (**track**-tuh-bul)*
adj. easy to handle or control
adj. easily shaped
35
# Name the vocab term:
adj. different from the norm; aberrant
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
anomalous
## Footnote
synonyms: unusual, abnormal, strange, atypical, irregular, aberrant
The _anomalous_ results of the experiment prompted further investigation.
36
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ toward injustice drove him to become an activist.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "a strong feeling of dislike".*
antipathy
## Footnote
*antipathy (an-**tip**-uh-thee)*
n. aversion; loathing
37
# Name the vocab term:
v. to approve
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
approbate
## Footnote
synonyms: affirm, accept, endorse, sanction, ratify
The committee will _approbate_ the new policy after reviewing its implications.
38
# Fill in the blank:
The conquerors sought to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the land for their own use.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "to take for one's own use".*
appropriate
## Footnote
*appropriate (uh-**pro**-pree-ehyt)*
v. to take by force
v. to assign for a certain purpose
39
# Name the vocab term:
n. a person chosen to solve a dispute
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
arbiter
## Footnote
synonyms: mediator, negotiator, referee, judge, authority, adjudicator
The _arbiter_ was respected for his fair judgment in complex cases.
40
# Fill in the blank:
She is considered the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of a successful entrepreneur.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "a typical example or original model".*
archetype
## Footnote
*archetype (**are**-kih-tahyp)*
n. a typical example of something
n. the original on which something else is modeled
41
# Define:
ardor
| (**are**-der)
n. feeling of great warmth or intensity
## Footnote
His sense of justice manifests itself in the _ardor_ with which he throws himself into his legal work.
Root: *ard* (from Latin *ardere*, meaning "to burn")
42
# Define:
arduous
| (**ar**-djew-us)
adj. requiring mental or physical strain
adj. demanding
## Footnote
The beach was practically empty, as reaching it entailed an _arduous_ journey through a bramble thicket.
Root: *ard* (from Latin *arduus*, meaning "steep" or "difficult")
43
# Define:
aria
| (**are**-ee-uh)
n. a solo vocal piece in an opera
## Footnote
During her _aria_, the opera singer expressed her character's sorrow to the audience with great skill.
Root: *ari* (from Italian *aria*, meaning "air" or "melody")
44
# Define:
arid
| (**air**-id)
adj. extremely dry
adj. lacking spirit or vitality
## Footnote
The _arid_ climate of the desert is ideal for plants that do not require much water, such as cacti.
Root: *arid* (from Latin *aridus*, meaning "dry")
45
# Define:
sundry
| (**suhn**-dree)
adj. various, miscellaneous, separate
## Footnote
The _sundry_ items at the garage sale ranged from antique to almost brand new.
Root: *sund* (from Old English *syndrig*, meaning "separate" or "distinct")
46
# Define:
reprise
| (ruh-**preez**)
n. a repetition of an action
v. to repeat or resume
## Footnote
The _reprise_ of the song had the audience dancing in the aisles.
Prefix: *re-* (from Latin, meaning "again"); Root: *prise* (from Latin *prehendere*, meaning "to take")
47
# Define:
harrow
| (**hair**-oh)
v. to distress, torment
## Footnote
Any talk of layoffs would always leave the entire division _harrowed_ and unable to focus on their work.
Root: *harrow* (from Old English *hergian*, meaning "to plunder")
48
# Define:
sardonic
| (sahr-**don**-ik)
adj. cynical, mocking
## Footnote
The class clown's _sardonic_ remark landed him in detention.
Root: *sardon* (from Greek *sardonios*, meaning "bitter or scornful laughter")
49
# Define:
subterfuge
| (**suhb**-ter-fyoodj)
n. a deliberate deception to avoid a consequence
## Footnote
Policemen who stop drunk drivers can see right through the _subterfuge_ of hastily chewing a piece of gum.
Prefix: *sub-* (from Latin, meaning "under"); Root: *fug* (from Latin *fugere*, meaning "to flee")
50
# Define:
axiom
| (**ack**-see-um)
n. a generally accepted truth
## Footnote
In math class, we learned about the different _axioms_ we could use to develop geometric proofs.
Root: *axi* (from Greek *axios*, meaning "worthy")
51
# Define:
controvert
| (**kon**-truh-vurt)
v. to deny the truth of
## Footnote
Recent experiments seem to _controvert_ the predictions of previous theories.
Prefix: *contra-* (from Latin, meaning "against"); Root: *vert* (from Latin *vertere*, meaning "to turn")
52
# Define:
progeny
| (**prodj**-uh-nee)
n. one born or derived from another; an offspring or descendent
n. a product of creative effort
## Footnote
That family claims to be the _progeny_ of the king of France, but they refuse to submit to a DNA test to prove their bloodline.
Prefix: *pro-* (from Latin, meaning "forth"); Root: *gen* (from Latin *gignere*, meaning "to beget")
53
# Define:
potentate
| (**poht**-n-teyt)
n. one with absolute power to rule; a monarch
## Footnote
While the _potentate_ sipped wine, the peasants toiled in the field.
Root: *potent* (from Latin *potentem*, meaning "powerful")
54
# Define:
cardinal
| (**kahr**-dn-uhl)
adj. of paramount importance
adj. dark red
## Footnote
At the graduation speech, the valedictorian gave them _cardinal_ rules to live by.
Root: *cardin* (from Latin *cardinalis*, meaning "hinge" or "pivotal")
55
# Define:
hidebound
| (**hahyd**-bound)
adj. rigid, dry, unmoving
## Footnote
The _hidebound_ rules of organized religion have never appealed to me much.
Root: *hide* (from Old English *hyd*, meaning "skin"); Root: *bound* (from Old English *bindan*, meaning "to bind")
56
# Define:
chary
| (**chair**-ee)
adj. very cautious; not giving or spending freely
adj. shy
## Footnote
Joe was _chary_ of his praise for his daughters, but when he did congratulate them, they beamed.
Root: *char* (from Old English *cearu*, meaning "care")
57
# Define:
arabesque
| (air-uh-**besk**)
n. a complex, ornate design
## Footnote
The kimono was trimmed with an _arabesque_ of tiny yellow curlicues.
Root: *arab* (from French *arabesque*, meaning "in the Arabic style")
58
# Define:
rapturous
| (**rap**-cher-uhs)
adj. expressing great pleasure or enthusiasm
## Footnote
The presidential decree was greeted with _rapturous_ applause.
Root: *rapt* (from Latin *raptus*, meaning "seized"); Suffix: *-ous* (from Latin, meaning "full of")
59
# Define:
amalgamate
| (uh-**mal**-guh-meyt)
v. to combine several elements into a whole; to blend
## Footnote
Our county will _amalgamate_ with the neighboring county in order to cut administrative costs.
Root: *amalgam* (from Medieval Latin *amalgama*, meaning "alloy of mercury")
60
# Define:
prattle
| (**prat**-uhl)
v. to babble or speak foolishly
## Footnote
The confused student _prattled_ for a few minutes before sitting back down.
Root: *prat* (from Middle Low German *praten*, meaning "to talk")
61
# Name the vocab term:
n. feeling of great warmth or intensity
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
ardor
## Footnote
synonyms: admiration, passion, fervor, zeal, enthusiasm
His _ardor_ for the project inspired everyone on the team.
62
# Fill in the blank:
The hike was \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, demanding both stamina and determination.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "requiring great effort".*
arduous
## Footnote
*arduous (**ar**-djew-us)*
adj. requiring mental or physical strain
adj. demanding
63
# Name the vocab term:
n. a solo vocal piece in an opera
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
aria
## Footnote
synonyms: descant, hymn, song, melody, solo, duet
The soprano's _aria_ captivated the audience with its emotional depth.
64
# Fill in the blank:
The presentation was so \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ that many attendees struggled to stay awake.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "extremely dry".*
arid
## Footnote
*arid (**air**-id)*
adj. extremely dry
adj. lacking spirit or vitality
65
# Name the vocab term:
adj. various, miscellaneous, separate
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
sundry
## Footnote
synonyms: assorted, different, diverse, varied, disparate
The shop sells _sundry_ items, from books to kitchenware.
66
# Fill in the blank:
The composer decided to include a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of the main theme in the final act.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "r" and means "a repeated passage or action".*
reprise
## Footnote
*reprise (ruh-**preez**)*
n. a repetition of an action
n. to repeat or resume
67
# Name the vocab term:
v. to distress, torment
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
harrow
## Footnote
synonyms: depredate, harass, torment, afflict, trouble
The memories of the event continued to _harrow_ him for years.
68
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ humor often left others feeling uncomfortable.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "s" and means "mocking or cynical".*
sardonic
## Footnote
*sardonic (sahr-**don**-ik)*
adj. cynical, mocking
69
# Name the vocab term:
n. a deliberate deception to avoid a consequence
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
subterfuge
## Footnote
synonyms: cheating, dishonesty, dissimulation, deceit, trickery, evasion
She used _subterfuge_ to evade the question and shift the conversation.
70
# Fill in the blank:
It is an ______ that hard work leads to success.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "a self-evident truth".*
axiom
## Footnote
*axiom (**ack**-see-um)*
n. a generally accepted truthsynonyms: principle, fundamental, maxim, truth, postulate
71
# Name the vocab term:
v. to deny the truth of
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
controvert
## Footnote
synonyms: oppose, argue, deny, dispute, refute, challenge, contradict
Many experts tried to _controvert_ the claim with counter-evidence.
72
# Fill in the blank:
His latest painting was the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of years of artistic development.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p"; means "offspring, descendant, or a product of creative effort".*
progeny
## Footnote
*progeny (**prodj**-uh-nee)*
n. one born or derived from another; an offspring or descendent
n. a product of creative effort
73
# Name the vocab term:
n. one with absolute power to rule; a monarch
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "p"*
potentate
## Footnote
synonyms: autocrat, chief, leader, sovereign, ruler, despot
The _potentate_ of the small kingdom wielded immense influence over his subjects.
74
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ dress added a vibrant touch to the festive decorations.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "most important or dark red".*
cardinal
## Footnote
*cardinal (**kahr**-dn-uhl)*
adj. of paramount importance
adj. dark red
75
# Name the vocab term:
adj. rigid, dry, unmoving
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
hidebound
## Footnote
synonyms: fixed, immovable, strict, inflexible, unyielding, conservative
The _hidebound_ policies of the organization stifled innovation.
76
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ demeanor made it difficult for him to join in on group discussions.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "cautious or reluctant".*
chary
## Footnote
*chary (**chair**-ee)*
adj. very cautious; not giving or spending freely
adj. shy
77
# Name the vocab term:
n. a complex, ornate design
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
arabesque
## Footnote
synonyms: design, frill, adornment, flourish, ornamentation, embellishment, motif
The _arabesque_ patterns on the wall added elegance to the room.
78
# Fill in the blank:
The audience gave a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ applause at the end of the performance.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "r" and means "full of great joy or enthusiasm".*
rapturous
## Footnote
*rapturous (**rap**-cher-uhs)*
adj. expressing great pleasure or enthusiasm
79
# Name the vocab term:
v. to combine several elements into a whole; to blend
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
amalgamate
## Footnote
synonyms: integrate, combine, merge, fuse, consolidate
The two companies decided to _amalgamate_ their resources to improve efficiency.
80
# Fill in the blank:
The children \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ on about their day, oblivious to the time.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "spoke in a foolish or trivial way".*
prattled
## Footnote
*prattle (**prat**-uhl)*
v. to babble or speak foolishly
81
# Define:
simian
| (**sim**-ee-uhn)
adj. relating to apes
## Footnote
Humans have many _simian_ characteristics.
Root: *simia* (from Latin, meaning "ape" or "monkey")
82
# Define:
precipice
| (**press**-uh-piss)
n. a steep rock or cliff face
## Footnote
The climber faced the largest _precipice_ of his career.
Prefix: *pre-* (from Latin, meaning "before"); Root: *caput* (from Latin, meaning "head")
83
# Define:
augury
| (**aw**-gyuh-ree)
n. divination
n. an omen, portent
## Footnote
_Augury_ is often performed by observing a crystal ball.
Root: *augur* (from Latin, meaning "soothsayer" or "diviner")
84
# Define:
picayune
| (pik-ee-**yoon**)
adj. of little value, paltry, petty
n. something of little value
## Footnote
His craftsmanship wasn't worth a _picayune_.
Root: *picaillon* (from French, meaning "small coin")
85
# Define:
anthropomorphic
| (an-thruh-puh-**mawr**-fik)
adj. having human characteristics
## Footnote
Many people believe that aliens will be _anthropomorphic_, but there is no evidence to support that.
Root: *anthropo* (from Greek *anthrōpos*, meaning "human"); Suffix: *-morphic* (from Greek *morphē*, meaning "form" or "shape")
86
# Define:
ramify
| (**ram**-uh-fahy)
v. to be divided, to branch out
## Footnote
The dispute _ramified_ as more factions got involved.
Root: *ramus* (from Latin, meaning "branch"); Suffix: *-fy* (from Latin *facere*, meaning "to make")
87
# Define:
upbraid
| (uhp-**breyd**)
v. to scold sharply, reprimand, or blame
## Footnote
Mom _upbraided_ me for not doing the dishes last night.
Prefix: *up-* (from Old English, meaning "up" or "thoroughly"); Root: *braid* (from Old English *bregdan*, meaning "to move quickly" or "to weave")
88
# Define:
banality
| (buh-**nal**-ih-tee)
n. triviality
n. something overused and trite
## Footnote
The once-funny joke had become a _banality_ in the camp.
Root: *banal* (from French, meaning "commonplace"); Suffix: *-ity* (from Latin *-itas*, indicating a state or condition)
89
# Define:
base
| (**behyss**)
adj. immoral
adj. made of low quality materials
## Footnote
The young man was criticized by his parents for his _base_, degrading lifestyle.
Root: *basis* (from Greek, meaning "foundation" or "support")
90
# Define:
sodden
| (**sod**-n)
adj. thoroughly soaked, saturated
## Footnote
My clothes were _sodden_ from the rainstorm.
Root: *sod* (from Middle English *soden*, meaning "boiled")
91
# Define:
stolid
| (**stawl**-id)
adj. stoic, emotionless
## Footnote
People in old-time photographs tend to have _stolid_ expressions.
Root: *stolidus* (from Latin, meaning "dull" or "stupid")
92
# Define:
phthisis
| (**thigh**-sis)
n. a disease characterized by body-part atrophy (especially of the lungs)
## Footnote
His _phthisis_ was interfering with work more every day.
Root: *phthisis* (from Greek, meaning "wasting away" or "consumption")
93
# Define:
vintner
| (**vint**-ner)
n. one who makes or sells wine
## Footnote
In Italy there are a great number of _vintners_.
Root: *vin* (from Latin *vinum*, meaning "wine"); Suffix: *-er* (indicating a person associated with a particular activity)
94
# Define:
salient
| (**sehy**-lee-uhnt)
adj. prominent or conspicuous
## Footnote
The cover of the study guide listed its _salient_ features, such as diagnostic and practice exams.
Root: *salire* (from Latin, meaning "to leap")
95
# Define:
haughty
| (**haw**-tee)
adj. arrogant, snobbish
## Footnote
I prefer the company of one or two good friends to a party full of _haughty_, self-absorbed socialites.
Root: *haut* (from Old French, meaning "high" or "lofty")
96
# Define:
blanch
| (**blanch**)
v. to whiten or turn pale
## Footnote
During the biology dissection, Jennifer _blanched_ and ran out of the room.
Root: *blanc* (from Old French, meaning "white")
97
# Define:
inimitable
| (in-**im**-ih-tuh-buhl)
adj. incapable of being imitated or duplicated
## Footnote
The Broadway debut was a spellbinding performance thanks mainly to the _inimitable_ stamina of the female lead.
Prefix: *in-* (from Latin, meaning "not"); Root: *imitari* (from Latin, meaning "to imitate"); Suffix: *-able* (indicating capability or worthiness)
98
# Define:
accretion
| (uh-**kree**-shuhn)
n. growth; increase by successive or gradual addition
## Footnote
The _accretion_ of dirt has changed the floor's color.
Prefix: *ad-* (from Latin, meaning "to" or "toward"); Root: *crescere* (from Latin, meaning "to grow"); Suffix: *-tion* (indicating an action or process)
99
# Define:
trenchant
| (**tren**-chuhnt)
adj. forceful and effective
adj. extremely perceptive
## Footnote
The experienced CEO offered _trenchant_ criticisms of the young company.
Root: *trenchier* (from Old French, meaning "to cut")
100
# Define:
turgid
| (**tur**-djid)
adj. swollen or distended
adj. excessively ornate; grandiloquent
## Footnote
Marcy's _turgid_ leg was enough to concern her parents.
Root: *turgere* (from Latin, meaning "to swell")
101
# Name the vocab term:
adj. relating to apes
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
simian
## Footnote
synonyms: ape-like, primate, anthropoid
The _simian_ characteristics of the monkey were evident in its agile movements.
102
# Fill in the blank:
The climbers stood at the edge of the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, gazing down at the valley below.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "a steep cliff or dangerous situation".*
precipice
## Footnote
*precipice (**press**-uh-piss)*
n. a steep rock or cliff face
103
# Name the vocab term:
n. divination
n. an omen, portent
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
augury
## Footnote
synonyms: fortunetelling, forewarning, omen, prophecy
The ancient practice of _augury_ involved interpreting the flight patterns of birds.
Seeing a black cat was considered an _augury_ of bad luck.
104
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ complaints about the weather were tiresome.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "of little value or importance".*
picayune
## Footnote
*picayune (pik-ee-**yoon**)*
adj. of little value, paltry, petty
n. something of little value
105
# Name the vocab term:
adj. having human characteristics
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "a"*
anthropomorphic
## Footnote
synonyms: humanlike, personified, anthropoidal
The _anthropomorphic_ characters in the cartoon made the story more relatable.
106
# Fill in the blank:
The organization began to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ into various departments to better serve its members.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "r" and means "to spread or branch out".*
ramify
## Footnote
*ramify (**ram**-uh-fahy)*
v. to be divided, to branch out
107
# Name the vocab term:
v. to scold sharply, reprimand or blame
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "u"*
upbraid
## Footnote
synonyms: berate, criticize, reprimand, reproach, chastise
The manager did not hesitate to _upbraid_ the team for missing the deadline.
108
# Fill in the blank:
The film suffered from \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, offering nothing new to the genre.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "b" and means "lack of originality".*
banality
## Footnote
*banality (buh-**nal**-ih-tee)*
n. triviality
n. something overused and trite
109
# Name the vocab term:
adj. immoral
adj. made of low quality materials
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "b"*
base
## Footnote
synonyms: vulgar, low; shoddy, cheap, inferior, contemptible
His _base_ actions shocked everyone who knew him as a moral person.
The furniture was so _base_ that it fell apart after just a few months.
110
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ground made it difficult to walk without slipping.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "s" and means "thoroughly soaked".*
sodden
## Footnote
*sodden (**sod**-n)*
adj. thoroughly soaked, saturated
111
# Name the vocab term:
adj. stoic, emotionless
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "s"*
stolid
## Footnote
synonyms: apathetic, indifferent, impassive, unemotional, phlegmatic
His _stolid_ demeanor made it hard for others to read his feelings.
112
# Fill in the blank:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ was once a common cause of death before the advent of antibiotics.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "p" and means "a wasting disease, especially tuberculosis".*
Phthisis
## Footnote
*phthisis (**thigh**-sis)*
n. a disease characterized by body-part atrophy (especially of the lungs)
113
# Name the vocab term:
n. one who makes or sells wine
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "v"*
vintner
## Footnote
synonyms: winemaker, wine merchant, brewer, oenologist
The _vintner_ proudly showcased his finest bottles at the annual wine festival.
114
# Fill in the blank:
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ features made her stand out in the crowd.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "s" and means "most noticeable or important".*
salient
## Footnote
*salient (**sehy**-lee-uhnt)*
adj. prominent or conspicuous
115
# Name the vocab term:
adj. arrogant, insolent
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "h"*
haughty
## Footnote
synonyms: egotistic, conceited, snobbish, disdainful, supercilious
His _haughty_ attitude alienated many of his colleagues.
116
# Fill in the blank:
She began to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ at the thought of giving a speech in front of the audience.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "b" and means "to turn pale".*
blanch
## Footnote
*blanch (**blanch**)*
v. to whiten or turn pale
117
# Name the vocab term:
adj. incapable of being imitated or duplicated
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "i"*
inimitable
## Footnote
synonyms: unique, matchless, peerless, singular, distinctive, incomparable
Her _inimitable_ style made her a fashion icon.
118
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ of knowledge over the years has made him an expert in his field.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "a" and means "a gradual increase or growth".*
accretion
## Footnote
*accretion (uh-**kree**-shuhn)*
n. growth; increase by successive or gradual addition
119
# Name the vocab term:
adj. forceful and effective
adj. extremely perceptive
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "t"*
trenchant
## Footnote
synonyms: sharp, observant, incisive, keen, astute
His _trenchant_ remarks during the debate swayed many opinions.
She had a _trenchant_ understanding of the complex issues at hand.
120
# Fill in the blank:
The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ river overflowed its banks after the heavy rainfall.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "swollen or pompous".*
turgid
## Footnote
*turgid (**tur**-djid)*
adj. swollen or distended
adj. excessively ornate; grandiloquent
121
# Define:
belabor
| (buh-**lehy**-burr)
v. to speak or worry about something at length
v. to attack
## Footnote
She was known to _belabor_ the point when it came to environmentalism, so we tried not to bring it up.
Prefix: *be-* (intensive prefix from Old English, meaning 'thoroughly')
122
# Define:
belie
| (buh-**lahy**)
v. to give a false impression
v. to reveal as untrue
## Footnote
She greeted us with a smile, but the redness of her eyes _belied_ her cheerful attitude.
Prefix: *be-* (intensive prefix from Old English, meaning 'thoroughly')
123
# Define:
benign
| (buh-**nahyn**)
adj. pleasant
adj. not harmful, especially to health
## Footnote
The doctor's _benign_ manner endeared him to patients.
Prefix: *bene-* (from Latin, meaning 'well' or 'good')
124
# Define:
bent
| (**bent**)
n. a natural talent
n. an inclination or interest
## Footnote
Lisa had a true _bent_ for working with animals, so people often told her to consider a career as a veterinarian.
Root: *bend* (from Old English *bendan*, meaning 'to bend')
125
# Define:
berate
| (bih-**rate**)
v. to scold or criticize angrily
## Footnote
Jane's boss was so mean that he _berated_ her for even the smallest mistakes.
Prefix: *be-* (intensive prefix from Old English, meaning 'thoroughly')
126
# Define:
blithe
| (**blahyth**)
adj. carefree and happy
## Footnote
When he lost his job, John struggled to maintain his _blithe_ and optimistic attitude toward life.
Root: *blithe* (from Old English *blīþe*, meaning 'joyous' or 'kind')
127
# Define:
capacious
| (kuh-**pay**-shuss)
adj. having a lot of room
## Footnote
The _capacious_ living room often impressed their guests.
Root: *capaci-* (from Latin *capax*, meaning 'able to hold much'); Suffix: *-ous* (forming adjectives, meaning 'full of')
128
# Define:
capitulate
| (kuh-**pitch**-ih-lehyt)
v. to surrender; to give in
## Footnote
The mother _capitulated_ after hours of tantrums and finally bought her son the toy.
Root: *capit-* (from Latin *capitulum*, meaning 'a little head' or 'chapter')
129
# Define:
caprice
| (kuh-**prees**)
n. a sudden desire
## Footnote
Her decision to come along on the trip was a mere _caprice_; she had never expressed a desire to come before then.
Root: *capr-* (from Latin *caper*, meaning 'goat', suggesting whimsical or sudden change)
130
# Define:
carp
| (**karp**)
v. to raise trivial objections
n. a type of fish
## Footnote
She hated when her coworkers _carped_ about the minimal work they had to do.
Root: *carp* (from Old Norse *karpa*, meaning 'to boast' or 'to nag')
131
# Define:
cascade
| (kass-**kehyd**)
n. a waterfall
n. something that falls or progresses like a waterfall
## Footnote
I knew the wire was badly damaged when a _cascade_ of sparks fell the moment I touched it.
Root: *casc-* (from Latin *cascare*, meaning 'to fall')
132
# Define:
castigate
| (**kast**-ih-gehyt)
v. to give harsh criticism
v. to punish harshly
## Footnote
His parents _castigated_ him for his bad grades by taking away his car keys.
Root: *castig-* (from Latin *castigare*, meaning 'to chastise')
133
# Define:
caustic
| (**kaw**-stick)
adj. capable of corroding
adj. harsh or sarcastic in tone
## Footnote
The comedian was known for his _caustic_ jokes about political scandals.
Root: *caust-* (from Greek *kaustikos*, meaning 'burning')
134
# Define:
censure
| (**sen**-shur)
n. strong disapproval, esp. official disapproval
v. to condemn
## Footnote
The professor was _censured_ by the administration for his controversial and politically incorrect lectures.
Root: *cens-* (from Latin *censere*, meaning 'to assess' or 'to judge')
135
# Define:
chauvinism
| (**show**-vuh-niz-um)
n. fanatical patriotism
n. prejudiced support of one's own group, sex, or cause
## Footnote
My father's _chauvinism_ was characterized by a rather dim view of other races.
Suffix: *-ism* (forming nouns, indicating a belief or principle)
136
# Define:
chimera
| (kahy-**mere**-uh)
n. a creature possessing the body parts of different animals
n. a fanciful mental illusion
## Footnote
The ability to make easy money is a _chimera_; it only works until the next economic downturn.
Root: *chimera* (from Greek *khimaira*, meaning 'a mythological creature')
137
# Define:
collusion
| (kuh-**loo**-zhun)
n. a conspiracy or secret plot
## Footnote
Acting in _collusion_ with several high officials, the rebels completed the government takeover successfully.
Prefix: *col-* (variant of *com-*, meaning 'together'); Root: *lud-* (from Latin *ludere*, meaning 'to play')
138
# Define:
complacent
| (kum-**plehy**-sunt)
adj. satisfied and thus not wanting to improve
## Footnote
Kate became _complacent_ after years of success as a model and so was unprepared when younger women challenged her position at the top.
Prefix: *com-* (from Latin, meaning 'with' or 'together'); Root: *plac-* (from Latin *placere*, meaning 'to please')
139
# Define:
complaisant
| (kum-**plehy**-sunt)
adj. eager to please
## Footnote
Although usually argumentative, Paul is surprisingly _complaisant_ with his girlfriend.
Prefix: *com-* (from Latin, meaning 'with' or 'together'); Root: *plais-* (from Latin *placere*, meaning 'to please')
140
# Define:
concise
| (kun-**sayhs**)
adj. brief; able to express a lot in few words
## Footnote
Before the show, the director gave a _concise_ introduction that explained his reasons for getting involved in the production.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning 'together'); Root: *cis-* (from Latin *caedere*, meaning 'to cut')
141
# Name the vocab term:
v. to speak or worry about something at length
v. to attack
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "b"*
belabor
## Footnote
synonyms: dwell on, repeat; invade, assail, harp on, reiterate, bombard
He tends to _belabor_ his point, making discussions unnecessarily long.
The critic did not hesitate to _belabor_ the flaws in the new film.
142
# Fill in the blank:
Her smile seemed to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ her true feelings of sadness.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "b" and means "to give a false impression of".*
belie
## Footnote
*belie (buh-**lahy**)*
v. to give a false impression
v. to reveal as untrue
143
# Name the vocab term:
adj. pleasant
adj. not harmful, especially to health
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "b"*
benign
## Footnote
synonyms: amiable, friendly, gentle; harmless, innocuous
The _benign_ atmosphere of the garden made it a perfect spot for relaxation.
The doctor assured her that the tumor was _benign_.
144
# Fill in the blank:
She has a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ for music, playing multiple instruments with ease.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "b" and means "a natural talent or inclination".*
bent
## Footnote
*bent (**bent**)*
n. a natural talent
n. an inclination or interest
145
# Name the vocab term:
v. to scold or criticize angrily
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "b"*
berate
## Footnote
synonyms: abuse, discipline, rebuke, reprimand, chastise
The coach _berated_ the players for their lack of effort during the game.
146
# Fill in the blank:
Her \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ spirit brought joy to everyone around her.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "b" and means "carefree and cheerful".*
blithe
## Footnote
*blithe (**blahyth**)*
adj. carefree and happy
147
# Name the vocab term:
adj. having a lot of room
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
capacious
## Footnote
synonyms: spacious, roomy, expansive, ample, extensive, vast
The _capacious_ trunk of the car easily accommodated all the luggage.
148
# Fill in the blank:
After weeks of negotiations, the company decided to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ to the union's demands.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "to surrender or give in".*
capitulate
## Footnote
*capitulate (kuh-**pitch**-ih-lehyt)*
v. to surrender; to give in
149
# Name the vocab term:
n. a sudden desire
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
caprice
## Footnote
synonyms: fancy, impulse, whim, inclination, whimsy
His decision to travel was a _caprice_, inspired by a spontaneous thought.
150
# Fill in the blank:
She began to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ about the details of the plan, which frustrated the team.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "to complain or find fault continually".*
carp
## Footnote
*carp (**karp**)*
v. to raise trivial objections
n. a kind of fish
151
# Name the vocab term:
n. a waterfall
n. something that falls or progresses like a waterfall
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
cascade
## Footnote
synonyms: chute, downpour, flood, fall, rush, waterfall
The _cascade_ of water tumbled down the rocky cliff, creating a beautiful sight.
The project had a _cascade_ of delays that pushed the deadline further back.
152
# Fill in the blank:
The teacher did not hesitate to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ the student for his poor behavior.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "to criticize severely or punish harshly".*
castigate
## Footnote
*castigate (**kast**-ih-gehyt)*
v. to give harsh criticism to
v. to punish harshly
153
# Name the vocab term:
adj. capable of corroding
adj. harsh or sarcastic in tone
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
caustic
## Footnote
synonyms: abrasive, erosive; ironic, bitter, scathing, sardonic
The _caustic_ chemical burned through the metal container.
His _caustic_ remarks often left others feeling hurt and offended.
154
# Fill in the blank:
The senator faced \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ for his inappropriate comments.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "to express strong disapproval".*
censure
## Footnote
*censure (**sen**-shur)*
n. strong disapproval, esp. official disapproval
v. to condemn
155
# Name the vocab term:
n. fanatical patriotism; and
n. prejudiced support of one's own group, sex, or cause
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
chauvinism
## Footnote
synonyms: jingoism, ethnocentricity, nationalism, partisanship
His _chauvinism_ was evident in his dismissive attitude toward other cultures.
156
# Fill in the blank:
The mythological \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ was said to breathe fire and have the body of a lion.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "an impossible or foolish fantasy".*
chimera
## Footnote
*chimera (kahy-**mere**-uh)*
n. a creature possessing the body parts of different animals
n. a fanciful mental illusion
157
# Name the vocab term:
n. a conspiracy or secret plot
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
collusion
## Footnote
synonyms: pact, trick, connivance, conspiracy, collaboration, secret agreement
The two companies were accused of _collusion_ to fix prices in the market.
158
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ attitude toward his grades prevented him from striving for better.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "self-satisfied and unaware of danger".*
complacent
## Footnote
*complacent (kum-**plehy**-sunt)*
adj. satisfied and thus not wanting to improve
159
# Name the vocab term:
adj. eager to please
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
complaisant
## Footnote
synonyms: obliging, compliant, accommodating, agreeable, helpful
The _complaisant_ assistant went out of her way to ensure her boss's satisfaction.
160
# Fill in the blank:
The report was \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, highlighting only the most important information.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "brief but comprehensive".*
concise
## Footnote
*concise (kun-**sayhs**)*
adj. brief; able to express a lot in few words
161
# Define:
conjecture
| (kun-**jeck**-chur)
n. inference based on inconclusive or incomplete evidence
## Footnote
The scientist's paper was criticized by his peers for being based purely on _conjecture_.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "together" or "with"); Root: *ject* (from Latin *jacere*, meaning "to throw")
162
# Define:
consternation
| (kon-stur-**nehy**-shun)
n. a state of confused terror or apprehension
## Footnote
A feeling of _consternation_ filled the room as the teacher began to hand back papers immediately after the students had handed them in.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "together" or "with"); Root: *stern* (from Latin *sternere*, meaning "to spread out" or "to stretch")
163
# Define:
consummate
| (v. **kon**-suh-meyt; adj. **kon**-suh-muht)
v. to make complete or perfect
adj. perfect in every aspect
## Footnote
The team's victory was _consummated_ by a spontaneous celebration on the field.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "together" or "with"); Root: *sum* (from Latin *summus*, meaning "highest")
164
# Define:
contention
| (kun-**ten**-shun)
n. a point or argument in a debate
n. a competition
## Footnote
The ceasefire is holding, but a few points of _contention_ must still be resolved before a final peace can be reached.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "together" or "with"); Root: *tent* (from Latin *tendere*, meaning "to stretch")
165
# Define:
contrite
| (kun-**trahyt**)
adj. full of remorse
## Footnote
The letter explained that he was truly _contrite_ and wanted to apologize in person.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "together" or "with"); Root: *trite* (from Latin *terere*, meaning "to rub")
166
# Define:
convalesce
| (kon-vuh-**less**)
v. to recover
## Footnote
After the accident, Tom was told to _convalesce_ for at least two weeks.
Prefix: *con-* (from Latin, meaning "together" or "with"); Root: *valesc* (from Latin *valescere*, meaning "to grow strong")
167
# Define:
deleterious
| (dell-uh-**teer**-ee-us)
adj. causing harm or damage
## Footnote
It is now common knowledge that smoking is _deleterious_ to one's health.
Root: *deleter* (from Greek *deleterios*, meaning "destroyer"); Suffix: *-ious* (forming adjectives, meaning "having the quality of")
168
# Define:
demagogue
| (**dem**-uh-gog)
n. a speaker who targets his or her audience's emotions or prejudices
## Footnote
The candidate's opponent accused him of being a _demagogue_ and relying upon the public's fear of change.
Prefix: *demo-* (from Greek *demos*, meaning "people"); Root: *agogue* (from Greek *agogos*, meaning "leader")
169
# Define:
denigrate
| (**den**-ih-grehyt)
v. to attack the reputation of
## Footnote
The columnist _denigrated_ the baseball coach for his string of high-profile losses.
Prefix: *de-* (from Latin, meaning "down" or "away"); Root: *nigr* (from Latin *niger*, meaning "black")
170
# Define:
denote
| (dih-**noht**)
v. to mark or indicate
## Footnote
The red text on her report card _denoted_ which classes she was failing.
Prefix: *de-* (from Latin, meaning "down" or "away"); Root: *note* (from Latin *notare*, meaning "to mark" or "to note")
171
# Define:
desiccate
| (**dess**-ih-kehyt)
v. to cause to lose moisture
## Footnote
Mary had her wart removed at the doctor's office by _desiccating_ it.
Prefix: *de-* (from Latin, meaning "down" or "away"); Root: *siccat* (from Latin *siccare*, meaning "to dry")
172
# Define:
despond
| (dih-**spond**)
v. to become dejected
## Footnote
His campaign team _desponded_ when they heard the official results of the election.
Prefix: *de-* (from Latin, meaning "down" or "away"); Root: *spond* (from Latin *spondere*, meaning "to promise")
173
# Define:
desultory
| (**dess**-uhl-tore-ee)
adj. having no plan or purpose; random
## Footnote
The _desultory_ thoughts running through Mick's mind prevented him from concentrating on the essay he had to write.
Prefix: *de-* (from Latin, meaning "down" or "away"); Root: *sult* (from Latin *salire*, meaning "to jump")
174
# Define:
diatribe
| (**die**-uh-trahyb)
n. a harsh rant or critical review
## Footnote
After hours of waiting with me in the lobby, my mother began her usual _diatribe_ on the various failings of airport management.
Prefix: *dia-* (from Greek, meaning "through" or "across"); Root: *tribe* (from Greek *tribein*, meaning "to rub")
175
# Define:
discrete
| (diss-**kreet**)
adj. distinctly separate
## Footnote
The U.S. government has three _discrete_ branches: the judiciary, the legislature, and the executive.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "away"); Root: *cret* (from Latin *cernere*, meaning "to separate")
176
# Define:
disparage
| (dih-**spare**-idj)
v. to express a negative opinion of
## Footnote
She _disparaged_ her friend behind his back, yet praised him to his face.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "away"); Root: *par* (from Latin *par*, meaning "equal")
177
# Define:
disparate
| (**diss**-puh-rit)
adj. completely different
## Footnote
The two had such _disparate_ opinions on the topic that it seemed impossible for them to work together effectively.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "away"); Root: *par* (from Latin *par*, meaning "equal")
178
# Define:
dispassionate
| (diss-**pash**-ih-nut)
adj. unbiased; objective
## Footnote
A _dispassionate_ judge will favor neither the prosecution nor the defense.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "away"); Root: *passion* (from Latin *passio*, meaning "suffering" or "feeling")
179
# Define:
disposed
| (diss-**pohzd**)
adj. having a tendency or partiality to
## Footnote
Kate was particularly stubborn when she was angry and was not _disposed_ to listen to reason.
Prefix: *dis-* (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "away"); Root: *pose* (from Latin *ponere*, meaning "to place")
180
# Define:
tendentious
| (ten-**den**-chuss)
adj. exhibiting a trend; having an ulterior motive or bias
## Footnote
Wendy's _tendentious_ assessment of the war mentions only its positive effects, skipping over the negative points.
Root: *tend* (from Latin *tendere*, meaning "to stretch" or "to aim"); Suffix: *-ious* (forming adjectives, meaning "having the quality of")
181
# Name the vocab term:
n. inference based on inconclusive or incomplete evidence
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
conjecture
## Footnote
synonyms: assumption, guess, presumption, hypothesis, speculation, inference
His _conjecture_ about the missing documents turned out to be correct.
182
# Fill in the blank:
The sudden news of the layoffs caused \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ among the employees.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "feelings of dismay or anxiety".*
consternation
## Footnote
*consternation (kon-stur-**nehy**-shun)*
n. a state of confused terror or apprehension
183
# Name the vocab term:
v. to make complete or perfect
adj. perfect in every aspect
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
consummate
## Footnote
synonyms: fulfill, finish, achieve; flawless, complete, ideal, supreme
The artist hoped to _consummate_ his vision with this final piece.
Her performance was _consummate_, leaving the audience in awe.
184
# Fill in the blank:
His \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ that the policy would benefit the economy was met with skepticism.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "a heated disagreement".*
contention
## Footnote
*contention (kun-**ten**-shun)*
n. a point or argument in a debate
n. a competition
185
# Name the vocab term:
adj. full of remorse
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "c"*
contrite
## Footnote
synonyms: regretful, atoning, remorseful, penitent, apologetic, repentant
She felt _contrite_ after realizing the hurt she had caused her friend.
186
# Fill in the blank:
After her surgery, she needed several weeks to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "c" and means "to recover health after illness".*
convalesce
## Footnote
*convalesce (kon-vuh-**less**)*
v. to recover
187
# Name the vocab term:
adj. causing harm or damage
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
deleterious
## Footnote
synonyms: destructive, injurious, hurtful, harmful, detrimental, dangerous
The chemicals in the product were found to have _deleterious_ effects on health.
188
# Fill in the blank:
The politician was criticized as a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ for exploiting public fears.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "a leader who gains power by stirring emotions".*
demagogue
## Footnote
*demagogue (**dem**-uh-gog)*
n. a speaker who targets his or her audience's emotions or prejudices
189
# Name the vocab term:
v. to attack the reputation of
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
denigrate
## Footnote
synonyms: malign, slander, defame, disparage, belittle, vilify
The article aimed to _denigrate_ her achievements and undermine her credibility.
190
# Fill in the blank:
The red color on the map \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ areas of high risk.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "to indicate or be a sign of".*
denotes
## Footnote
*denote (dih-**noht**)*
v. to mark or indicate
191
# Name the vocab term:
v. to cause to lose moisture
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
desiccate
## Footnote
synonyms: dehydrate, dry out, evaporate, parch, wither
The hot sun will _desiccate_ the soil if it is not watered regularly.
192
# Fill in the blank:
She sank into \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ after hearing the bad news.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "to lose hope or confidence".*
despond
## Footnote
*despond (dih-**spond**)*
v. to become dejected
193
# Name the vocab term:
adj. having no plan or purpose; random
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
desultory
## Footnote
synonyms: aimless, erratic, random, haphazard, disconnected
His _desultory_ remarks during the meeting left everyone confused about his position.
194
# Fill in the blank:
The critic's \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ against the film was scathing and left no stone unturned.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "a bitter verbal attack".*
diatribe
## Footnote
*diatribe (**die**-uh-trahyb)*
n. a harsh rant or critical review
195
# Name the vocab term:
adj. distinctly separate
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
discrete
## Footnote
synonyms: detached, disconnected, separate, distinct, individual, isolated
The data was divided into _discrete_ categories for easier analysis.
196
# Fill in the blank:
She felt hurt when her colleague chose to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ her efforts publicly.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "to speak badly of or belittle".*
disparage
## Footnote
*disparage (dih-**spare**-idj)*
v. to express a negative opinion of
197
# Name the vocab term:
adj. completely different
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
disparate
## Footnote
synonyms: contrary, unlike, various, distinct, diverse, heterogeneous
The two proposals were so _disparate_ that it was hard to compare them.
198
# Fill in the blank:
As a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ observer, he was able to provide fair feedback.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "d" and means "not influenced by emotion".*
dispassionate
## Footnote
*dispassionate (diss-**pash**-ih-nut)*
adj. unbiased; objective
199
# Name the vocab term:
adj. having a tendency or partiality to
## Footnote
*Hint: starts with "d"*
disposed
## Footnote
synonyms: inclined, prone to, willing, apt, susceptible
He seemed _disposed_ to agree with the majority opinion.
200
# Fill in the blank:
The article had a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ slant, clearly favoring one political party.
## Footnote
***Hint:*** *Starts with "t" and means "expressing a biased viewpoint".*
tendentious
## Footnote
*tendentious (ten-**den**-chuss)*
adj. exhibiting a trend
adj. having an ulterior motive or bias
