Vocabulary

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0 height="100%"><tr> <td valign="top" width=145 BGCOLOR="#3366CC" TEXT="#080000" background="03fff483.png"> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="index_dear.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations in All Languages eXact, eX"><U><B><U>About</U></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="index_contact_1.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations in All Languages eXact, eX"><U><B><U>Contact</U></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="index_references.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations in All Languages eXact, eX"><U><B><U>References</U></B></U></A></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="id21_career.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations EnSq"><U><B><U>Career</U></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id24.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Glossary"><U><B><U>Glossary</U></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id35.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Vocabulary"><U><B><U>Vocabulary</U></B></U></A></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations EnSq"><U><B><U>Translations</U></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations EnSq"><U><B><U>English>Albanian</U></B></U></A></div> </td> <td valign="top" BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" background="040ff483.png"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#6666FF" FACE="Arial" ><B>Translations in All Languages - eXact, eXpress</B></FONT><FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#663399" FACE="Times New Roman" >    </FONT> |    <B> </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000BF" FACE="Times New Roman" ><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Translations in All Languages eXact, eX"><U><B>home</B></U></A></FONT></div> <div> <A HREF="id36.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Phrasal Verbs"><U>Phrasal Verbs</U></A>   |   <B>Vocabulary</B></div> <div> <IMG SRC="041f0050.png" border=0 width="496" height="5" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <div> Vocabulary</div> <div> [according to www.thefreedictionary.com/]</div> <bR> <bR> <div> mollify<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To calm in temper or feeling; to lessen in intensity. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >appease</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >conciliate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pacify</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >placate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >soothe</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >temper</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was so outraged that nothing her friends said could mollify her anger. </div> <bR> <div> grovel<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To lie or creep in a prostrate position, as in subservience or humility. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cower</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cringe</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >fawn</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The prisoners groveled before the emperor, hoping that he would commute their sentences. </div> <bR> <div> evince<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To show or demonstrate clearly; manifest. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >express</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >show</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The baby couldn't tell us she disliked the cereal, but she evinced her distaste by grimacing. </div> <bR> <div> gainsay<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To oppose, especially by contradiction. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >challenge</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dispute</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: In vain did the poor old father weep and implore her pity; she was firm, and he dared not gainsay her. </div> <bR> <div> addle<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To muddle; confuse. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >muddle</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >puddle</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: You'll addle your brain, that's what you'll do, Philip.</div> <bR> <div> idiosyncrasy<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A structural or behavioral characteristic peculiar to an individual or group. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >foible</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >mannerism</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >peculiarity</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although many people found his habit of tapping his fingers on his desk annoying, his friends were able to overlook this idiosyncrasy. </div> <bR> <div> vibrissa<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Any of the long stiff hairs that project from the snout or brow of most mammals, as the whiskers of a cat. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >whisker</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sensory hair</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The mouse's vibrissae alerted it to the presence of a predator. </div> <bR> <div> ophthalmologist<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A medical doctor specializing in the treatment of diseases of the eye. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >oculist</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >eye doctor</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The ophthalmologist asked the patient to read letters off of a chart posted across the room. </div> <bR> <div> cudgel<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A short heavy stick. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bastinado</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >club</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She woke up with her head hurting as though it had been hit with a cudgel.</div> <bR> <div> gaberdine<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A loose coverall (coat or frock) reaching down to the ankles. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dust coat</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >smock</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >duster</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He was an unshaven little man in a threadbare coat like a gaberdine, with his feet in slippers, and I thought him a harmless fool. </div> <bR> <div> acquittance<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A written release from an obligation, specifically a receipt indicating payment in full. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >release</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: After years of haggling over debts and money owed, the two men resolved their dispute and drew up an acquittance. </div> <bR> <div> jointer<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A long carpenter's plane used to shape the edges of boards so they will fit together. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >long plane</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >jointer plane</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >jointing plane</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Eschewing electrical tools, the carpenter used a manual jointer to fit the two boards together. </div> <bR> <div> quinine<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A bitter, colorless alkaloid powder, derived from cinchona bark and used in medicine to treat malaria. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >antimalarial</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Peruvian bark</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Since quinine is used in tonic water to give it a bitter taste, gin and tonics were once consumed to prevent malaria. </div> <bR> <div> leghorn<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A stiff straw hat with a flat crown. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >boater</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Panama hat</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >straw hat</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Panama</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sailor</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >skimmer</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He had a collection of silly hats, his favorite being a giant leghorn that he had painted purple.</div> <bR> <div> munificent<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Very liberal in giving; generous. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lavish</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >overgenerous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >prodigal</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >too-generous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unsparing</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unstinted</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unstinting</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Munificent as life was to me, I added to that munificence. </div> <bR> <div> mendacious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Lying; untruthful. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lying</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: answered I, that is a kind of state, and indeed the most mendacious. </div> <bR> <div> medial<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Relating to, situated in, or extending toward the middle; median. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >median</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: They took up defensive posts all along the field, with Ray in the medial position. </div> <bR> <div> heathenish<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of or having to do with heathens. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >heathen</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pagan</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ethnic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The Crusaders looked upon the followers of Islam as heathens, who refused to accept the true word of God.</div> <bR> <div> jejune<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Not interesting; dull. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >insubstantial</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: and there pour forth jejune words and useless empty phrases Anthony Trollope.</div> <bR> <div> recompense<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To award compensation for; make a return for. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compensate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >indemnify</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >repair</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: I wish to recompense you for the time and money that you spent while helping my sister find her lost dog. </div> <bR> <div> waft<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To cause to go gently and smoothly through the air or over water. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >drift</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >float</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >blow</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The scent of her perfume wafted through the room. </div> <bR> <div> muster<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To call (troops) together, as for inspection. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >muster up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rally</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >summon</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >come up</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: It was the strongest fortress France possessed, and if the king had better sense, he would have sent all the ships he could muster to protect it. </div> <bR> <div> enfeeble<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To deprive of strength; make feeble. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >debilitate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >drain</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >weaken</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although his age enfeebled him, he could still walk long distances without tiring. </div> <bR> <div> jibe<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To be in accord; agree. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >correspond</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >match</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >tally</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The two stories don't jibe in many details.</div> <bR> <div> lanceolate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Tapering from a rounded base toward an apex. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lancelike</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pointed</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The bush had lanceolate leaves with sharp tips that could sting unwary passersby. </div> <bR> <div> succinct<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Characterized by clear, precise expression in few words; concise and terse. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compendious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >summary</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compact</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Some students enjoyed the teacher's succinct style, while others wished she would elaborate on certain topics. </div> <bR> <div> sanguine<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of a healthy reddish color; cheerfully confident. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rubicund</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ruddy</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >optimistic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He had a sanguine complexion that was matched by his cheerful outlook. </div> <bR> <div> quotidian<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Everyday; commonplace. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >mundane</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ordinary</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >routine</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: There's nothing quite like a real train conductor to add color to a quotidian commute.</div> <bR> <div> indomitable<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Incapable of being overcome, subdued, or vanquished; unconquerable. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >never-say-die</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unsubduable</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: And that the great monster is indomitable, you will yet have reason to know. </div> <bR> <div> unwieldy<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Difficult to carry or manage because of size, shape, weight, or complexity. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unmanageable</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She shifted the unwieldy groceries in her arms and looked for an empty shopping cart. </div> <bR> <div> cardinal<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of foremost importance. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >fundamental</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >paramount</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >primal</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The cardinal rule of membership in the secret society was never to reveal its existence to outsiders. </div> <bR> <div> cantankerous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Ill-tempered and quarrelsome; disagreeable. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bloody-minded</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She made it more difficult for him by adopting a cantankerous tone. </div> <bR> <div> moire<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Having a wavy or rippled surface pattern. Used of fabric. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >watered</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: As the lady sat down, the folds of her moiré silk dress rustled about her.</div> <bR> <div> inveigh<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To give vent to angry disapproval; protest vehemently. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rail</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The detective had, indeed, good reasons to inveigh against the bad luck which pursued him. </div> <bR> <div> castigate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To inflict severe punishment on. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >chasten</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >chastise</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >objurgate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >correct</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Often he would look back on his day of toil, and castigate himself for failing to fulfill his true purpose of the day. </div> <bR> <div> inspissate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To undergo thickening or cause to thicken, as by boiling or evaporation. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >condense</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >thicken</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The recipe then instructed the cook to inspissate the sauce by adding flour. </div> <bR> <div> vacillate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To sway from one side to the other; oscillate. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hover</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >oscillate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vibrate</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: A man of my age and experience ought to have known better than to vacillate in this unreasonable manner. </div> <bR> <div> deprecate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To belittle; depreciate. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >depreciate</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The teacher should not deprecate his student's efforts.</div> <bR> <div> miscreant<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A person without moral scruples. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >reprobate</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: And here, gentlemen, the foul play of these miscreants must come out. </div> <bR> <div> idiosyncrasy<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A structural or behavioral characteristic peculiar to an individual or group. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >foible</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >mannerism</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >peculiarity</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although many people found his habit of tapping his fingers on his desk annoying, his friends were able to overlook this idiosyncrasy. </div> <bR> <div> declination<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A polite refusal of an invitation. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >regrets</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His declination of the dinner invitation was a great disappointment to the would-be host. </div> <bR> <div> cembalo<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A clavier with strings that are plucked by plectra mounted on pivots. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >harpsichord</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although the piano is a more versatile instrument with a greater range, some musicians still enjoy playing the cembalo for its distinct sound. </div> <bR> <div> fief<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A piece of land held under the feudal system. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >fiefdom</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >feoff</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >demesne</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: In return for his fief, the baron promised to fight in the king's wars.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> effete<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Depleted of vitality, force, or effectiveness; exhausted. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >decadent</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: In the meantime you can relieve your feelings by cursing the one-man power and the effete monarchies of Europe. </div> <bR> <div> edacious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Characterized by voracity; devouring. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ravenous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >voracious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >wolfish</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >esurient</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rapacious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ravening</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The edacious vultures soon devoured the animal's remains. </div> <bR> <div> succinct<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Characterized by clear, precise expression in few words; concise and terse. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compendious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >summary</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compact</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Some students enjoyed the teacher's succinct style, while others wished she would elaborate on certain topics. </div> <bR> <div> hexangular<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Having six sides or divided into hexagons. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hexagonal</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The shop's sign was hexangular and red, differentiating it from the black, square plaques that advertised all the other stores in the shopping center. </div> <bR> <div> perturbing<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - causing distress or worry or anxiety. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >distressful</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >disturbing</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >worrisome</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The kindergarten teacher found her student's erratic behavior to be perturbing, and she resolved to consult with the child's parents.</div> <bR> <div> dobbin<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A quiet plodding workhorse. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >farm horse</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The dobbin had been a loyal and faithful worker, and the farmer was sad to see the quiet horse's health decline. </div> <bR> <div> mountebank<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A hawker of quack medicines who attracts customers with stories, jokes, or tricks. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >charlatan</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >quack</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >trickster</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Walking down the street, they saw a mountebank beguiling his audience with tales of miracles achieved through his remedies. </div> <bR> <div> capstone<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The top stone of a structure or wall. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >stretcher</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >coping stone</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >copestone</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When the structure's capstone was finally in place, the builders threw themselves a party to celebrate their achievement. </div> <bR> <div> going-over<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A severe scolding. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >castigation</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bawling out</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >chewing out</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dressing down</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >upbraiding</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >earful</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When he was caught chewing gum in class, he knew he would have to endure a going-over from the teacher. </div> <bR> <div> windbreaker<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A trademark used for a warm outer jacket having close-fitting, often elastic, cuffs and waistband. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >anorak</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >parka</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >windcheater</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: George's windbreaker was torn, and he shivered in the cold night air.</div> <bR> <div> deprecate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To belittle; depreciate. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >depreciate</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The teacher should not deprecate his student's efforts. </div> <bR> <div> mollify<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To calm in temper or feeling; to lessen in intensity. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >appease</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >conciliate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pacify</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >placate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >soothe</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >temper</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was so outraged that nothing her friends said could mollify her anger. </div> <bR> <div> inveigle<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To win over by coaxing, flattery, or artful talk. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cajole</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >coax</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sweet-talk</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >wheedle</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >persuade</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Unless he can inveigle someone to buy his old car, he won't have enough money for new one. </div> <bR> <div> bedaub<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To smear; soil. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >besmear</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The natives were discernible, not merely to the eye but to the nostrils, by the awful odors of the rancid grease with which they bedaub their bodies. </div> <bR> <div> enfeeble<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To deprive of strength; make feeble. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >debilitate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >drain</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >weaken</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although his age enfeebled him, he could still walk long distances without tiring.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> bandog<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A dog, such as a mastiff, kept chained as a watchdog or because of its ferocious aggressiveness. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >watchdog</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: As soon as they saw the bandog outside, the would-be robbers decided to try their luck elsewhere. </div> <bR> <div> flapjack<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A flat cake of thin batter fried on both sides on a griddle. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >flannel-cake</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >battercake</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >flapcake</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hotcake</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pancake</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >griddlecake</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His flapjacks were so thin and light that they could have passed for crêpes. </div> <bR> <div> travail<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Work, especially when arduous or involving painful effort. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >effort</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >exertion</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >labor</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >toil</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She deserved to take a vacation after her long travail. </div> <bR> <div> netherworld<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The world of the dead. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Scheol</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >underworld</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Hades</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Hel</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >infernal region</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Hell</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He had nightmares about going to some fiery, haunted netherworld, and awoke the next morning vowing to repent. </div> <bR> <div> flunky<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A person of unquestioning obedience. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >stooge</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >yes-man</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >flunkey</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: I liked the play, but I felt that the character of Joe was too much of a flunky, always trying to please Roger and never standing up for himself.</div> <bR> <div> nascent<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Coming into existence. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >emergent</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >emerging</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The nascent republic had to formulate its laws while continuing its war for independence. </div> <bR> <div> banal<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Drearily commonplace and often predictable; trite. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >commonplace</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >trivial</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The melodrama was quite cliché, and, by now, completely banal. </div> <bR> <div> laconic<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Using or marked by the use of few words; terse or concise. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >terse</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >curt</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crisp</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Even so, our acquaintance might have been no more than a hand-grip and a word-- he was a laconic old fellow--had it not been for the drinking. </div> <bR> <div> penurious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Unwilling to spend money; yielding little; poverty-stricken. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >impecunious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >penniless</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >destitute</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >parsimonious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >stingy</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His circumstances were penurious, though no one knew whether he was really poor or only miserly. </div> <bR> <div> intransigent<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Refusing to moderate a position, especially an extreme position; uncompromising. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >adamant</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >inexorable</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >adamantine</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: he is adamant in his refusal to change his mind</div> <bR> <div> disperse<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To drive off or scatter in different directions. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dissipate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >spread</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dispel</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When it seemed that a riot was about to start, the police arrived to disperse the crowd. </div> <bR> <div> lionize<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To look on or treat (a person) as a celebrity. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >celebrate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lionise</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She lionized her older brother and was always proud to be seen with him. </div> <bR> <div> tergiversate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To use evasions or ambiguities; to change sides. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >equivocate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >prevaricate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >apostatize</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She refused to tergiversate on the subject, stating her opinion concisely and openly. </div> <bR> <div> vacillate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To sway from one side to the other; oscillate. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hover</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >oscillate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vibrate</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: A man of my age and experience ought to have known better than to vacillate in this unreasonable manner. </div> <bR> <div> imbibe<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To drink. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >soak up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sop up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >suck up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >suck</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >absorb</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >take up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >take in</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >draw</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Thus, like figs, do these doctrines fall for you, my friends: imbibe now their juice and their sweet substance</div> <bR> <div> fissure<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A long narrow opening. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cranny</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crevice</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crack</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rift</FONT> </div> <bR> <div> Usage: In a narrow little fissure, just within reach of my forefinger, I felt the chain. </div> <bR> <div> churl<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A rude, boorish person. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >boor</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >barbarian</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >peasant</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He is a drunken, brawling, perilous churl, as you may find to your cost. </div> <bR> <div> surfeit<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The state of being more than full. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >overabundance</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >excess</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >glut</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The surfeit of goods produced caused prices to fall, hurting the economy. </div> <bR> <div> tegument<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A natural outer covering; an integument. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >skin</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cutis</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When it became apparent that the burn victim would need a skin graft on his face, the doctors decided to use tegument from his thigh. </div> <bR> <div> airfoil<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A part or surface, such as a wing, propeller blade, or rudder, whose shape and orientation control stability, direction, lift, thrust, or propulsion. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >control surface</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >surface</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >aerofoil</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The pilot knew they were in trouble when he noticed that the damaged airfoil was failing to produce lift.</div> <bR> <div> erudite<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Characterized by erudition; learned. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >learned</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >scholarly</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His speech was so erudite that people often had trouble understanding him without a dictionary. </div> <bR> <div> sere<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Withered; dry. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dried-up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >shrivelled</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sear</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >withered</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The desert was edged with sere vegetation. </div> <bR> <div> eidetic<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of, relating to, or marked by extraordinarily detailed and vivid recall of visual images. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >representational</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Thanks to her eidetic memory, she was able to remember every detail of the scene when sketching it later. </div> <bR> <div> inalienable<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - That cannot be transferred to another or others. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unforfeitable</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unalienable</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When he decided to fight for his inalienable rights, he did not realize that his actions would go down in history. </div> <bR> <div> gauche<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Lacking social polish; tactless. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unpolished</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >graceless</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Feeling that his question was somewhat gauche, he smiled angrily.</div> <bR> <div> abrogation<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The act of abrogating; an official or legal cancellation. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >repeal</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >annulment</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Once the candidate disclosed his transgressions, there were immediate calls for the abrogation of his nomination. </div> <bR> <div> putsch<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A sudden attempt by a group to overthrow a government. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >coup</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >coup d'etat</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >takeover</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The people had been expecting a putsch for years, but they were surprised to wake up one morning and find themselves the subjects of a new government. </div> <bR> <div> braggart<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - One given to loud, empty boasting; a bragger. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >blowhard</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >boaster</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bragger</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >line-shooter</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vaunter</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He was generally considered a braggart, and others found it hard to be excited about his self-proclaimed successes. </div> <bR> <div> pariah<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A social outcast. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >castaway</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >leper</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >untouchable</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The rumors of his traitorous actions were enough to make him a pariah among his peers, though nothing was ever proven. </div> <bR> <div> paring<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Something, such as a skin or peel, that has been pared off. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >shaving</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sliver</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: We do not mourn over the parings of our nails nor the cut locks of our hair, though they were once part of ourselves.</div> <bR> <div> tacit<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Not spoken. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >implied</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >understood</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >silent</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: They gave tacit consent. </div> <bR> <div> vitreous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of, relating to, resembling, or having the nature of glass. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vitrified</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >glassy</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The windows were covered with a clear, vitreous substance that kept out the wind. </div> <bR> <div> lachrymose<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Weeping or inclined to weep; causing or tending to cause tears. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dolorous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >weeping</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >tearful</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sorrowful</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He was by turns devout and obscene, merry and lachrymose. </div> <bR> <div> prolix<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Tediously prolonged; tending to speak or write at excessive length. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >voluble</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >wordy</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was engaged in editing a prolix manuscript, trying to cut the length by at least a third. </div> <bR> <div> heathenish<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of or having to do with heathens. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >heathen</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pagan</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ethnic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The Crusaders looked upon the followers of Islam as heathens, who refused to accept the true word of God.</div> <bR> <div> abnegate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To give up (rights or a claim, for example). </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >deny</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She denied herself wine and spirits </div> <bR> <div> descry<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To catch sight of (something difficult to discern). </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >espy</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >spot</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >spy</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Often he withdrew his eyes, timidly looking among the crowd, for he dreaded to descry there the face of the pretty Frisian girl. </div> <bR> <div> calumniate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To make maliciously or knowingly false statements about. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >asperse</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >besmirch</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >defame</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >slander</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >smirch</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >denigrate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sully</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >smear</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Ah Comte de la Fere, said a calm voice, though hoarse with running, "is it your habit to calumniate the absent? </div> <bR> <div> occlude<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To cause to become closed; to prevent the passage of. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >close up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >obturate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >impede</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >obstruct</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >jam</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >block</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: There was a dangerous drop just beyond the next turning, so a fence was built to occlude the path. </div> <bR> <div> gibe<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To make taunting, heckling, or jeering remarks. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >barb</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dig</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >shot</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The maids looked at one another and laughed, while pretty Melantho began to gibe at him contemptuously.</div> <bR> <div> ether<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The element believed in ancient and medieval civilizations to fill all space above the sphere of the moon and to compose the stars and planets. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >heavens</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >medium</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >quintessence</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: I dreamt that I rose higher and higher, until I was flying through the ether towards the stars. </div> <bR> <div> larynx<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The part of the respiratory tract between the pharynx and the trachea, having walls of cartilage and muscle and containing the vocal cords enveloped in folds of mucous membrane. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >voice box</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: By cunning operations on tongue, throat, larynx, and nasal cavities a man's whole enunciation and manner of speech could be changed. </div> <bR> <div> contretemps<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - An unforeseen event that disrupts the normal course of things; an awkward clash. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >encounter</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >skirmish</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: After his contretemps with the police, he resolved to drive more slowly in the future. </div> <bR> <div> opprobrium<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Disgrace arising from exceedingly shameful conduct; ignominy. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >obloquy</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: If an ill appointment should be made, the Executive for nominating, and the Senate for approving, would participate in the opprobrium and disgrace. </div> <bR> <div> saltire<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A cross with diagonal bars of equal length. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >St. Andrew's cross</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The roof was poor and thatched; but in strange contrast to it there ran all along under the eaves a line of wooden shields, most gorgeously painted with chevron, bend, and saltire, and every heraldic device.</div> <bR> <div> pliant<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Easily bent or flexed; pliable. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >plastic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: We searched for a more pliant material to wrap around the leaking pipe. </div> <bR> <div> insipid<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Lacking flavor or zest; not tasty. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >flavorless</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >savorless</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vapid</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bland</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >flat</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Their long conversation about the weather was so insipid that he wanted to leave the room at once. </div> <bR> <div> litigious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Related to or tending to engage in lawsuits or disputes. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >contentious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >disputatious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >argumentative</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The aide had been so litigious that she was eventually fired for insubordination. </div> <bR> <div> mercurial<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Quick and changeable in temperament. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >quicksilver</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >erratic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >fickle</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >volatile</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Her mercurial nature made it difficult to gauge how she would react. </div> <bR> <div> akin<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Similar or related in quality or character; related by blood. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >kin</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >kindred</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >like</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >related</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The students watched the principal approaching with a feeling akin to terror.</div> <bR> <div> phagocyte<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A cell, such as a white blood cell, that engulfs and absorbs waste material, harmful microorganisms, or other foreign bodies in the bloodstream and tissues. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >scavenger cell</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The doctor was fond of referring to phagocytes as "sanitation workers." </div> <bR> <div> varsity<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The principal team representing a university, college, or school in sports, games, or other competitions. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >first team</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was determined to make the varsity basketball team and practiced her game all summer. </div> <bR> <div> veiling<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Sheer material, such as gauze or fine lace, used for veils. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >netting</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >gauze</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The seamstress attached a distinctive lace trim to the veiling, so that it would match the bride's dress. </div> <bR> <div> chagrin<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A keen feeling of mental unease, as of annoyance or embarrassment, caused by failure, disappointment, or a disconcerting event. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >mortification</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >humiliation</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Much to my chagrin, I did not win the highly-publicized contest. </div> <bR> <div> philippic<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A verbal denunciation characterized by harsh, often insulting language; a tirade. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >tirade</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >broadside</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Ferrars looked exceedingly angry, and drawing herself up more stiffly than ever, pronounced in retort a bitter philippic.</div> <bR> <div> amatory<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of, relating to, or expressive of love, especially sexual love. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >amorous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >romantic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She showed her friends the stack of old love letters and read them excerpts from the couple's amatory correspondence. </div> <bR> <div> turgid<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Excessively ornate or complex in style or language. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bombastic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bloated</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >tumid</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Growing impatient with the politician's turgid prose, she turned off her television. </div> <bR> <div> bumptious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Crudely or loudly assertive; pushy. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >self-assertive</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: I was annoyed by his bumptious style of conversation, and wished he would let others speak. </div> <bR> <div> opprobrious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Expressing contemptuous reproach; bringing disgrace. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >abusive</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >scornful</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >shameful</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ignominious</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His opprobrious conduct during an assembly earned him a series of Saturday detentions. </div> <bR> <div> lugubrious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Mournful, dismal, or gloomy, especially to an exaggerated or ludicrous degree. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bathetic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >mawkish</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The look on his face was so lugubrious that for a moment I thought I had actually hurt his feelings.</div> <bR> <div> nostrum<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A medicine whose effectiveness is unproved and whose ingredients are usually secret; a quack remedy. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cure-all</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >panacea</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >elixir</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >patent medicine</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: No quack ever held his nostrum to be a more general panacea than he did this; which, he said, had more virtue in it than was in all the physic in an apothecary's shop. </div> <bR> <div> hodgepodge<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A mixture of dissimilar ingredients; a jumble. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >patchwork</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >jumble</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Paul's screenplay was a hodgepodge of comedy, drama, slapstick, and tragedy. </div> <bR> <div> rhizome<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A horizontal, usually underground stem that often sends out roots and shoots from its nodes. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rootstalk</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: It was not apparent that the neighboring stalk belonged to the original plant because the rhizome connecting the two was underground. </div> <bR> <div> conceit<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A favorable and especially unduly high opinion of one's own abilities or worth. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >amour-propre</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vanity</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was convinced that she was worthy of marrying royalty, but her vanity and conceit only made her less attractive to the prince. </div> <bR> <div> aegis<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Protection. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >auspices</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >protection</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Those citizens of the ocean feel sheltered under the aegis of an uncontested law, of an undisputed dynasty.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> mercurial<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Quick and changeable in temperament. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >quicksilver</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >erratic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >fickle</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >volatile</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Her mercurial nature made it difficult to gauge how she would react. </div> <bR> <div> circuitous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Being or taking a roundabout, lengthy course. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >roundabout</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He prided himself on his sense of direction, so Jane refrained from mentioning that the route he had chosen was circuitous and unnecessarily long. </div> <bR> <div> vitriolic<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Bitterly scathing; caustic. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >acid</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >blistering</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >caustic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >venomous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >acrid</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >acerbic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bitter</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His vitriolic speech attacking his opponent hurt his popularity with voters. </div> <bR> <div> unadulterated<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Not mingled or diluted with extraneous matter. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pure</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Because she did not like artificial or diluted flavors, she made sure to purchase unadulterated maple syrup. </div> <bR> <div> deplorable<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Worthy of severe condemnation or reproach. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >condemnable</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >reprehensible</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >criminal</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: a deplorable act of violence</div> <bR> <bR> <div> cloudburst<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A heavy rain. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pelter</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >soaker</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >torrent</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >waterspout</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >deluge</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >downpour</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: We enjoyed the lovely recliners on the ship's deck until a sudden cloudburst sent us running for our cabins. </div> <bR> <div> stripling<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A juvenile between the onset of puberty and maturity. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >adolescent</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >teenager</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He appeared on a jutting headland by the shore of the fruitless sea, seeming like a stripling in the first flush of manhood. </div> <bR> <div> obeisance<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Bending the head or body or knee as a sign of reverence or submission or shame. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bowing</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bow</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The Pope is made uncomfortable by such obeisance, as he once was a slave to the Nazis. </div> <bR> <div> panorama<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - An unbroken view of an entire surrounding area; a comprehensive presentation. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >vista</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >prospect</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >survey</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although the book was advertised as a panorama of American literature, it only includes descriptions of a few major authors. </div> <bR> <div> squalor<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A filthy and wretched condition or quality. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sordidness</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >squalidness</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The squalor in which the refugees lived alarmed the aid workers, who knew they had to work quickly to improve these conditions.</div> <bR> <div> monolithic<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Massive, solid, and uniform </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >massive</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >monumental</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: During her travels, she studied the monolithic proportions of Stalinist architecture. </div> <bR> <div> lascivious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Given to or expressing lust. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >libidinous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lecherous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lustful</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lewd</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Frustrated by his constant lascivious comments, she decided to report him to the supervisor. </div> <bR> <div> salient<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Strikingly conspicuous; prominent. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >prominent</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >outstanding</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >striking</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >spectacular</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Her speech was somewhat dull, but there was one salient point in her argument that was met with a round of applause. </div> <bR> <div> refulgent<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Shining radiantly; resplendent. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >effulgent</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >radiant</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >beaming</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Standing by the edge of the sea, they witnessed a refulgent sunset. </div> <bR> <div> cloistered<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Of communal life sequestered from the world under religious vows. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cloistral</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >conventual</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >monastic</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >monastical</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: I am not cloistered away without a sense of the world, said the Monk. "It is from this solitude where I do make sense of it all."</div> <bR> <div> opprobrium<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Disgrace arising from exceedingly shameful conduct; ignominy. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >obloquy</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: If an ill appointment should be made, the Executive for nominating, and the Senate for approving, would participate in the opprobrium and disgrace. </div> <bR> <div> carcass<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The dead body of an animal, especially one slaughtered for food. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >body</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >carcase</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: After a few hours, the hunter returned with the carcass of a deer slung over his shoulder. </div> <bR> <div> equanimity<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The quality of being calm and even-tempered. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >calm</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >calmness</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >composure</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Because she was prepared for the news, she was able to respond with equanimity. </div> <bR> <div> lashings<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Lavish quantities. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >oodles</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dozens</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >gobs</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >heaps</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >loads</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >lots</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rafts</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >scads</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >scores</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >slews</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >stacks</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >tons</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >wads</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >piles</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >mountain</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Famished, the men ate lashings of spaghetti and meatballs when they finally reached their destination. </div> <bR> <div> desiccant<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A substance, such as calcium oxide or silica gel, that has a high affinity for water and is used as a drying agent. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >drier</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >drying agent</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sicative</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The shipment was packed with a desiccant to prevent humidity from warping the wood during transport.</div> <bR> <div> percutaneous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Passed, done, or effected through the skin. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transcutaneous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transdermal</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transdermic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: percutaneous absorption </div> <bR> <div> inalienable<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - That cannot be transferred to another or others. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unforfeitable</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unalienable</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When he decided to fight for his inalienable rights, he did not realize that his actions would go down in history. </div> <bR> <div> flippant<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Marked by disrespectful levity or casualness. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >light-minded</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: There was nothing pert or flippant in her manner now, as when she walked with Mr. </div> <bR> <div> akin<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Similar or related in quality or character; related by blood. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >kin</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >kindred</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >like</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >related</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The students watched the principal approaching with a feeling akin to terror. </div> <bR> <div> clandestine<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Kept or done in secret, often in order to conceal an illicit or improper purpose. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hush-hush</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >on the quiet</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cloak-and-dagger</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >undercover</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >underground</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hole-and-corner</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hugger-mugger</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >secret</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >surreptitious</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Whether the torments of absence were softened by a clandestine correspondence, let us not inquire.</div> <bR> <div> inveigle<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To win over by coaxing, flattery, or artful talk. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cajole</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >coax</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sweet-talk</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >wheedle</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >persuade</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Unless he can inveigle someone to buy his old car, he won't have enough money for new one. </div> <bR> <div> inveigh<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To give vent to angry disapproval; protest vehemently. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rail</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The detective had, indeed, good reasons to inveigh against the bad luck which pursued him. </div> <bR> <div> feign<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To give a false appearance of; to represent falsely; pretend to. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dissemble</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pretend</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sham</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >affect</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He feigned that he was ill to avoid going to school. </div> <bR> <div> prevaricate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold information. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >beat around the bush</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >equivocate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >palter</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >tergiversate</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: At the press conference, the politician chose to prevaricate instead of providing direct answers. </div> <bR> <div> inspissate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To undergo thickening or cause to thicken, as by boiling or evaporation. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >condense</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >thicken</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The recipe then instructed the cook to inspissate the sauce by adding flour.</div> <bR> <div> acumen<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A tapering point. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >insightfulness</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Knowing the young reporter, we can understand with what acumen he had traced, step by step, the story of Mathilde Stangerson and Jean Roussel. </div> <bR> <div> amylum<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A complex carbohydrate found chiefly in seeds, fruits, tubers, roots and stem pith of plants, notably in corn, potatoes, wheat, and rice. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >starch</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was on a strict diet and avoided foods with high levels of amylum, sugar, and saturated fat. </div> <bR> <div> tympan<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A musical percussion instrument; usually consists of a hollow cylinder with a membrane stretched across each end. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >drum</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >membranophone</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Though the tympan is only heard on three of the album's tracks, its drumbeat is so catchy that it has made the record a hit. </div> <bR> <div> quinine<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A bitter, colorless alkaloid powder, derived from cinchona bark and used in medicine to treat malaria. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >antimalarial</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Peruvian bark</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Since quinine is used in tonic water to give it a bitter taste, gin and tonics were once consumed to prevent malaria. </div> <bR> <div> palimpsest<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A manuscript that has been written on more than once, with the earlier writing incompletely erased and often legible; an object, place, or area that reflects its history. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >manuscript</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The towers of the ruined cathedral were a palimpsest of worship and destruction.</div> <bR> <div> phalanx<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A compact or close-knit body of people. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crowd</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unit</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The party members disagreed on many topics, but when it came to social issues, they formed a solid phalanx.</div> <bR> <div> gegenschein<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A faint glowing spot in the sky, exactly opposite the position of the sun. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >counterglow</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The gegenschein is so faint that it cannot be seen if there is any moonlight or if it falls in the vicinity of the Milky Way. </div> <bR> <div> inchoate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - In an initial or early stage; incipient. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >incipient</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Then his eyes went muddy, as if he had lost his grip on the inchoate thought. </div> <bR> <div> strapper<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A powerfully built, robust person. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bruiser</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bull</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >Samson</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Grandmother described everyone in larger-than-life terms. Even scrawny Bill from down the block was "a regular strapper." </div> <bR> <div> cosmopolite<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A cosmopolitan person. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >cosmopolitan</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She was a true cosmopolite, and next to her I felt primitive and impossibly rustic.</div> <bR> <div> litigious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Related to or tending to engage in lawsuits or disputes. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >contentious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >disputatious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >argumentative</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The aide had been so litigious that she was eventually fired for insubordination. </div> <bR> <div> medial<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Relating to, situated in, or extending toward the middle; median. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >median</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: They took up defensive posts all along the field, with Ray in the medial position. </div> <bR> <div> ephemeral<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Enduring a very short time. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >fugacious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >passing</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >short-lived</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transitory</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transient</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: the ephemeral joys of childhood </div> <bR> <div> incendiary<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Causing or capable of causing fire. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >inflammatory</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >combustible</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >incitive</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >instigative</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Rioters threw makeshift incendiary devices to start fires and block the approach of oncoming police. </div> <bR> <div> jejune<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Not interesting; dull. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >insubstantial</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: and there pour forth jejune words and useless empty phrases Anthony Trollope.</div> <bR> <div> addle<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To muddle; confuse. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >muddle</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >puddle</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: You'll addle your brain, that's what you'll do, Philip. </div> <bR> <div> abdicate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To relinquish (power or responsibility) formally. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >renounce</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The King abdicated the throne when he married a divorcee. </div> <bR> <div> excoriate<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To censure strongly. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >abrade</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >condemn</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >denounce</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The newspaper printed an editorial that excoriated the administration for its inaction. </div> <bR> <div> muster<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To call (troops) together, as for inspection. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >muster up</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rally</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >summon</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >come up</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: It was the strongest fortress France possessed, and if the king had better sense, he would have sent all the ships he could muster to protect it. </div> <bR> <div> recompense<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - To award compensation for; make a return for. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compensate</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >indemnify</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >repair</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: I wish to recompense you for the time and money that you spent while helping my sister find her lost dog.</div> <bR> <div> carrefour<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A junction where one street or road crosses another. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crossroad</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crossway</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >intersection</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >crossing</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: When his jalopy broke down right in the middle of a busy carrefour, he swore he would invest in a more reliable car. </div> <bR> <div> scapegrace<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A scoundrel; a rascal. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >black sheep</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: You've grown bigger and bonnier, but you are the same scapegrace as ever. </div> <bR> <div> laggard<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Someone who takes more time than necessary; someone who lags behind. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dawdler</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >trailer</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >straggler</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: He was such a laggard that his friends were already paying the bill by the time he reached the café. </div> <bR> <div> asperity<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Roughness or harshness, as of surface, sound, or climate. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rigor</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rigorousness</FONT>, , <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >severity</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >grimness</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hardship</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Thus by a judicious exercise of tact and asperity we re-established the atmospheric equilibrium of the room long before I left them. </div> <bR> <div> capote<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A long, usually hooded cloak or coat. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >hooded coat</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The men wore matching black capotes with hoods that obscured their features, and we watched in terror as they advanced in the dim light.</div> <bR> <div> innocuous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Having no adverse effect; harmless. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >harmless</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Whatever my intentions were, I have been innocuous, for you have dogged my strides and counteracted my influence. </div> <bR> <div> obstreperous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Noisily and stubbornly defiant; aggressively boisterous. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >defiant</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >noncompliant</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >aggressive</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Although the teacher ordered them to sit down, the obstreperous boys continued their antics. </div> <bR> <div> percutaneous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Passed, done, or effected through the skin. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transcutaneous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transdermal</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transdermic</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: percutaneous absorption </div> <bR> <div> inexorable<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Not capable of being persuaded by entreaty; relentless. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >relentless</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >grim</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unappeasable</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unrelenting</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >unforgiving</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >stern</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The inexorable investigator questioned the witness repeatedly, long after she had been reduced to tears and claimed to know nothing more. </div> <bR> <div> imperviable<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Not admitting of passage or capable of being affected. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >impervious</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The tablecloth was imperviable to liquid; the water ran along the surface of the fabric and did not soak through to the table.</div> <bR> <div> soapbox<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >dais</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >podium</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >pulpit</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >rostrum</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >stump</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ambo</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The author ascended the soapbox and surveyed the faces of the audience before beginning to read from his latest novel. </div> <bR> <div> sensibility<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Receptiveness to impression, whether pleasant or unpleasant; acuteness of feeling. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >consciousness</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >perceptiveness</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >sensitivity</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: With a painter's sensibility to light and color, he had decorated his home to be a peaceful place to work. </div> <bR> <div> equanimity<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The quality of being calm and even-tempered. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >calm</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >calmness</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >composure</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Because she was prepared for the news, she was able to respond with equanimity. </div> <bR> <div> genuflection<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - The act of bending the knees in worship or reverence. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bowing</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >obeisance</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Whereupon the pony went down on its knees in the sawdust in a genuflection to the man with the whip. </div> <bR> <div> scapegrace<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - A scoundrel; a rascal. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >black sheep</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: You've grown bigger and bonnier, but you are the same scapegrace as ever.</div> <bR> <div> pinguid<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Fat; oily. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >oily</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: His car was splattered with some sort of pinguid substance, and washing it only seemed to spread the mess. </div> <bR> <div> coeval<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Originating or existing during the same period; lasting through the same era. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >coetaneous</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >contemporaneous</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: The range was composed of grand, solid, abrupt masses of granite, which appeared as if they had been coeval with the beginning of the world. </div> <bR> <div> cantankerous<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Ill-tempered and quarrelsome; disagreeable. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >bloody-minded</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: She made it more difficult for him by adopting a cantankerous tone. </div> <bR> <div> succinct<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Characterized by clear, precise expression in few words; concise and terse. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compendious</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >summary</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >compact</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Some students enjoyed the teacher's succinct style, while others wished she would elaborate on certain topics. </div> <bR> <div> fugacious<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > - Passing away quickly; evanescent. </FONT></div> <div> Synonyms: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >ephemeral</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >passing</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >short-lived</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transitory</FONT>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >transient</FONT> </div> <div> Usage: Restless, shifting, fugacious as time itself is a certain vast bulk of the population of the red brick district of the lower West Side.</div> </td> </tr></table></body>