gre - the most difficult words

8/2/2019 GRE - The Most Difficult Words

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N.Karthick, M.E (Manufacturing), Madras Institute of Technology Campus, Anna University, Chennai.

MOST DIFFICULT WORDS LIST IN GRE EXAM

Compiled By: N.Karthick, M.E

abase = lower, humiliate

abash = humiliate, embarrassabdicate = give up power or position

abeyance = postponement, temporary suspension

abhor = detest, loathe

abjure = renounce, to formally reject or abandon

ablution = cleansing, washing

abortive = unsuccessful, interruptive while incomplete

abrogate = cancel, to abolish by authority

absolve = acquit, to forgive or free from blame

abstruse = difficult to comprehendabut = touch, border on

abysmal = deficient, sub par

accede = yield, express approval, agree to

acclimate = accustom oneself to a climate

acclivity = ascent, incline

accolade = applause, praise

accost = to approach and speak to someone

accouter (BRITISH = accoutre) = equip

acme = summit, highest pointacquiesce = to agree, comply passively

acrid = harsh, bitter, pungent, caustic

acrimonious = caustic, bitter

actuate = induce, start

acumen = sharpness of insight

adamant = insistent, uncompromising, unyielding

adduce = offer as example

adjunct = addition, something added, attached, or joined

admonish = warn gently, caution, or reprimand

adroit = skillful, accomplished, highly competent

adulation = applause, high praise

advent = arrival

adventitious = accidental

aegis = that which protects

affect = influence

affray = public brawl

agape = openmouthed, wonder

aggrandize = exaggerate, to make larger or greater in power

aghast = horrified


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apotheosis = Deification, glorification

appall (BRITISH = appal) = horrify

apparition = phantom

appellation = title, name

apposite = aptappraise = assess, evaluate the value

approbation = praise, official approval

apropos = Appropriate

arable = suitable for cultivation

arbiter = judge

archaic = Antiquated, from an earlier time

archetype = original model

archipelago = group of islands

ardor (BRITISH = ardour) = great emotion or passionargot = slang

aria = operatic song

arraign = indict, to call to court to answer a charge

array = arrangement

arrogate = seize without right, to demand or claim arrogantly

arroyo = gully

artifact (BRITISH = artefact) = an object made by human, of historical interest

artifice = trick

artisan = a skilled handicraftsman

ascendancy = powerful state

ascribe = to attribute

aseptic = sterile

ashen = resembling ashes, or deathly pale

asinine = stupid

askance = to view with suspicion, scornfully

askew = crooked, tilted

asperity = roughness of temper

aspersion = slander, false rumor, damaging report

assail = attack

assay = to analyze or estimate

assent = to express agreement

assiduous = hard-working, diligent, persistent

assuage = lessen (pain), to make less severe, ease

astringent = causing contraction, severe, harsh

asunder = apart, into different parts

atelier = workshop

atone = make amends for a wrong

audit = formal examination of final records


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augury = prophecy or prediction of events

august = noble, dignified, awe-inspiring, venerable

authoritarian = dictator, extremely strict, bossy

autocrat = dictator or a high ranking government officer

aver = to declare to be trueaversion = intense dislike

aviary = cage where birds are kept

avow = declare

avuncular = like an uncle

awry = crooked, askew, amiss

axiom = self-evident truth, premise, postulate

azure = sky blue

bacchanal = orgy, drunkenly festive

badger = To pesterbadinage = banter, teasing conversation

bagatelle = nonentity, trifle

baleful = hostile, malignant, harmful with evil intentions

balk = hesitate, refuse, shirk, prevent

banal = trite, overly common

bandy = discuss lightly

bane = poison, nuisance, something causing ruin

banter = to tease playfully and in good humor

bard = poet

baroque = ornate

bask = take pleasure in, sun

bastion = fort, fortification, stronghold

bauble = A trinket, trifle

beatific = supremely happy, angelic, saintly

beatitude = state of bliss

begrudge = resent, envy

beguile = deceive, seduce, mislead

behemoth = monster, huge creature

beholden = in debt

belabor (BRITISH = belabour) = to assail verbally, to insist repeatedly or harp on

beleaguer = besiege, to harass, plague

benighted = un enlightened

benison = Blessing

berate = to scold harshly

bereft = deprived of

beset = harass, surround

besmirch = slander, sully

bestial = beast-like, brutal


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bestow = to give as a gift, grant

bevy = group

bicameral = having two legislative branches

bicker = quarrel, to have a petty argument

bifurcated = divided into two branches, forkedbilious = ill-tempered

bilk = swindle, cheat, defraud

bivouac = encampment

blanch = bleach, whiten, to take the color out

blandish = to coax with flattering, grovel

blase = bored with life

blatant = glaring, obvious, showy

blight = decay, afflict, destroy

blithe = Joyful, cheerful, or without appropriate thoughtbludgeon = to hit someone several times with a heavy object

bode = portend

bogus = forged, false

bolster = To support or make something strong

bombast = pompous speech

bountiful = abundant, plentiful

bourgeois = middle class

brackish = salty

brazen = bold, shameless, impudent

breach = breaking of a rule, agreement, or law

broach = bring up a topic of conversation

brusque = curt, rough and abrupt in manner

bucolic = rustic

bulwark = fortification

burgeon = sprout or flourish

burlesque = farce

burly = husky, brawny

burnish = To make brilliant or shining

cabal = plot, a secret group seeking to overturn something

cache = hiding place

cadaver = corpse, dead body

cadaverous = haggard

cajole = encourage, coax, flatter

callow = inexperienced

calumny = Slander, false and malicious accusation

canard = hoax, a lie

candor (BRITISH = candour) = frankness, honesty of expression

canine = pertaining to dogs


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canny = clever and able to think quickly, especially about money or business

canvass = survey, examine thoroughly

capricious = fickle, impulsive, whimsical, without much thought

captious = fond of finding fault in others

carafe = bottlecardinal = chief

careen = swerve, to lean on one side

caricature = cartoon, exaggerated portrait

carnal = of the flesh, sensual

carnivorous = meat-eating

carp = to find faults, complain constantly

carrion = decaying flesh

cascade = small waterfall

castigate = criticize, punish, chastisecasuistry = clever argument to trick people

cataclysm = catastrophe, disaster

catalyst = something that causes change without being changed

cathartic = purgative, purifying, cleansing

catholic = universal, worldly

caucus = a small group within an organization or a meeting of such a group

cauterize (BRITISH = cauterise) = to sear

cavalcade = a procession or sequence

cavil = quibble, raise trivial objections

cede = transfer ownership, to surrender possession of something

celerity = quick moving or acting

censorious = condemning speech, severely critical

centripetal = tending toward the center

cession = Surrender, as of possessions or rights

chafe = abrade

chagrin = shame, embarrassment, humiliation

chalice = goblet, cup

champ = to chew noisily

chaotic = in utter disorder

chary = cautious, watchful, extremely shy

chaste = pure, virgin

chasten = castigate

chastise = to criticize or punish someone

chattel = piece of personal property

chauvinist = a man who thinks men are better than women

cherubic = sweet, innocent

chicanery = trickery, fraud, deception

chide = scold, express disapproval


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chimerical = imaginary, impossible

choleric = easily angered, short-tempered

churlish = rude, ungracious

cipher = zero

circumlocution = roundabout expressioncircumscribe = To confine within bounds

circumspect = cautious, wary

circumvent = evade, avoid, to go around

citadel = fortress or stronghold

clairvoyant = who can see the future, having ESP

clamor (BRITISH = clamour) = noisy outcry

cleave = to split or separate, to stick, adhere

cleft = split

clemency = forgiveness, merciful leniencyclique = a small group

cloister = refuge, to confine, seclude

cloven = split

coalesce = combine, to grow together

coddle = to pamper, baby, treat indulgently

codicil = supplement to a will

cogent = well-put, convincing, logically forceful

cogitate = ponder

cognate = from the same source, related

cognizant = aware

cognomen = family name, any name, nickname

cohere = To stick together

cohort = an associate

collate = to sort or put in proper order

colloquy = conference

collusion = conspiracy, collaboration, complicity

commodious = spacious

complaisant = Agreeable, friendly

complement = To make complete, perfect

complicity = guilt by association, knowing partnership in wrong doing

comport = to conduct oneself

composure = Calmness of appearance

compress = to reduce, squeeze

compunction = remorse, regret

conch = spiral shell

concordat = Agreement

concur = To agree

condescend = patronize, talk down to, to treat someone as though you are better


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condiment = seasoning

condolence = sympathy for the family or friends of a person who has recently died

conflagration = large fire, big, destructive fire

confluence = flowing together, meeting of two streams, meeting place

confound = bewilder, to baffle, perplexcongeal = solidify, as a liquid freezing, to become thick or solid

coniferous = bearing cones

conjecture = hypothesis, speculation, prediction

conjure = summon, to evoke a spirit, cast a spell

consanguinity = related by blood, kinship

consecrate = make holy, dedicate to a goal, to declare sacred

consequential = important

consort = spouse

constituent = electorate, component, partconstraint = something that limits what you can do

construe = interpret or to explain

contagion = infectious agent

continence = self-control, self-restraint

contingent = conditional

contort = twist

contrite = apologetic, deeply sorrowful and repentant for a wrong

controvert = dispute

contumacious = rebellious

contusion = A bruise

conundrum = enigma, puzzle or problem with no solution, riddle

convivial = sociable, festive, fond of eating, drinking, and people

convoke = convene, summon, to call together

coquette = woman who flirts

cordon = bond, chain

corollary = consequence

corpulent = fat

correlation = mutual relationship, association

corroborate = to confirm, verify

corrugate = to wrinkle or draw into folds

cortege = procession

coruscate = sparkle

coterie = small group, group of people with a common interest or purpose

countenance = facial expression, to favor, support

covenant = agreement, pact

cower = showing fear, to cringe in fear

crass = crude, unrefined

craven = cowardly


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credence = Belief, acceptance of something as true or real

creed = Belief or principle

crestfallen = dejected

crevice = crack

cringe = cower, to shrink in fearcruet = small bottle

cuisine = cookery, style of cooking

cull = pick out, select

culmination = climax, final stage

culpable = blameworthy, guilty, responsible for wrong

culvert = drain

cupidity = greed

curator = in charge of a library or museum

curmudgeon = boor, cranky personcurry = seek favor by flattery

cynosure = celebrity

dally = procrastinate, to act playfully or waste time

dank = damp

daunt = to frighten, subdue

dauntless = courageous

deadpan = expressionless

debase = to degrade, or lower in quality or stature

debauch = to corrupt, seduce from virtue or duty

debonair = sophisticated, affable

debutante = a girl debuting into society

decadence = deterioration, decay (e.g. moral or cultural)

decant = pour

decapitate = kill by beheading

deciduous = shedding leaves, short-lived, temporary

declivity = a place that declines or slopes downwards

decorous = seemly, proper, tasteful, socially correct

decrepitude = enfeeblement

decry = castigate, to belittle, openly condemn

defamation = slander

deference = courteously yielding to another, respect, honor

defile = pollute, to make unclean or dishonor

deflect = turn aside

defray = pay

deft = skillful, dexterous

defunct = extinct, no longer existing, dead

deign = condescend

deleterious = harmful, destructive, detrimental


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delirium = mental confusion, ecstasy

deluge = a flood, to submerge, overwhelm

delve = dig, explore (of ideas)

demagogue = An unprincipled politician, leader

demean = to degrade, humiliate, humbledemeanor (BRITISH = demeanour) = behavior

demented = deranged

demur = take exception, to express doubts or objections

demure = sedate, reserved

denigrate = defame, to slur or blacken someone's reputation

denizen = dweller

denouement = resolution

depose = testify, to remove from a high position

deposition = testimonydepravity = immorality, sinfulness

deprecate = belittle, disparage

depreciate = To lessen the worth of

depredation = preying on, plunder

deranged = insane, delirious, maniacal

derelict = negligent

deride = To ridicule, to mock, make fun of

derivative = copied or adapted, not original

descry = To discern, to discover or reveal

desecrate = profane, to abuse something sacred

desiccate = dehydrate, to dry completely

desolate = forsaken

despondent = depressed, feeling discouraged and dejected

desuetude = disuse

desultory = without direction in life, at random, rambling, unmethodical

determinate = Definitely limited or fixed, conclusive

dexterous = skillful, adroit

dialectic = pertaining to debate

diatribe = long denunciation, bitter verbal attack

dichotomy = a division into two parts

didactic = instructional

diffidence = shyness, lack of confidence

dilettante = amateur, dabbler

diminution = Reduction

dirge = lament with music, funeral hymn

disabuse = correct, to free from a misconception

disburse = pay out

discomfit = To put to confusion, discomfort


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disconcert = confuse

disconsolate = inconsolable, unable to be consoled, extremely sad

discordant = harsh-sounding, badly out of tune

discrete = separate, distinct

discretion = prudencediscursive = rambling, wandering from topic to topic

disdain = to regard with scorn and contempt

dishevel = muss

disingenuous = deceptive, sly and crafty

disinter = unearth

disinterested = Impartial

disjointed = disconnected, incoherent, being separated

disparage = belittle, speak disrespectfully about

disparate = various, dissimilar, different in kinddisparity = difference, contrast, dissimilarity

dispirit = discourage, to dishearten, make dejected

disputatious = fond of arguing

disquisition = elaborate treatise

dissimulate = to disguise

dissipate = scatter

dissolute = profligate, immoral

dissonance = Discord

distaff = the female branch of a family

distend = swell, inflate, bloat

distrait = preoccupied, absent-minded

distraught = distressed, very worried

docile = domesticated, trained, tame

doggerel = poor verse

dolorous = gloomy

dolt = a stupid person

domineer = to rule over something in a tyrannical way

dotage = senility, mental decline

doughty = brave, dauntless

dour = sullen and gloomy, stern and severe

dregs = residue, riffraff

droll = amusing in a wry

drone = speak in a monotonic voice

dross = waste matter, worthless impurities

duenna = governess

dulcet = melodious, pleasant sounding

duplicity = deceit, treachery, dishonesty, double-dealing

duress = coercion, imprisonment


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dwindle = To diminish or become less

dyspeptic = suffering from indigestion, gloomy and irritable

earthy = crude

ebb = recede, to fade away

ebullient = exuberant, full of enthusiasm and high spiritsecclesiastical = churchly

eclat = brilliance

eclectic = joyful

edify = instruct morally and spiritually

educe = draw forth, evoke

efface = To obliterate

effete = worn out

effluvium = noxious smells

effrontery = insolenceeffulgent = brilliant

effusion = pouring forth

effusive = expressing emotion without restraint

elation = exhilaration, joy

elegiac = sad

elicit = provoke

eloquence = fluent and effective speech

elucidate = make clear, clarify

emaciated = underfed, gaunt

emblazon = imprint, brand

embroil = involve, cause to fall into disorder

embryonic = rudimentary

emend = correct

emeritus = retired, but retaining title

emollient = cream for softening, making supple

enamored (BRITISH = enamoured) = charmed, captivated

enclave = area enclosed within another region

encomium = warm praise

encumber = burden, to hinder, restrict motion

endemic = Peculiar to some specified country or people

enervate = weaken, sap strength from

engender = generate, to produce

engross = captivate

enigmatic = puzzling, inexplicable

enjoin = urge, order, command

ennui = boredom, lack of interest and energy

ensconce = to hide safely, settle comfortably

enthrall (BRITISH = enthral) = mesmerize, to captivate, enchant


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entity = being, existence

entreat = plead, beg

enunciate = verbalize, articulate

epicure = gourmet, person with refined taste in food and wine

epigram = saying, short, witty saying or poemepilogue = The close of a narrative or poem

epithet = name, appellation, phrase

epitome = A simplified representation

epoch = era

equestrian = one who rides on horseback

equine = pertaining to horses

equity = impartiality, justice

equivocal = Ambiguous, open to two interpretations

erode = wear away, to diminisherrant = wandering, mistaken

escapade = adventure

eschew = avoid, to abstain from

espouse = to support or advocate

estranged = alienated, separated

eulogy = high praise

euthanasia = mercy-killing

evanescent = fleeting, very brief, short-lived

evince = attest, demonstrate, to show clearly

eviscerate = disembowel

ex officio = by virtue of position

exacerbate = worsen

exasperate = irritate, vex

excision = removal

excoriate = to denounce

exculpate = to clear of blame or fault

execrable = very bad, abominable, utterly detestable

exegesis = interpretation

exemplary = outstanding, serving as an example

exhort = strongly urge

exhume = uncover, to remove from a grave

exigency = urgency

exiguous = scanty

exonerate = free from blame

exorcise = to expel evil spirits

exotic = Foreign, romantic

expatiate = to discuss in detail, elaborate

expatriate = who does not live in one's own country


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expedient = advantageous, convenient, efficient

expiate = atone, make amends for

expletive = oath

expunge = erase, eliminate completely

expurgate = to purify by removing obscenitiesextant = existing

extemporaneous = unrehearsed

extenuate = To diminish the gravity or importance of

extirpate = seek out and destroy

extol = praise highly

extraneous = not essential, unnecessary

extricate = Disentangle, free

extrinsic = not inherent or essential, coming from without

extrovert = an outgoing personextrude = force out

exuberant = joyous, happy

exude = emit, ooze

exult = rejoice

fabricate = construct

facet = aspect

facetious = joking, sarcastic, witty

facile = very easy

factious = causing disagreement

factitious = artificial

factotum = handyman

fallible = Capable of erring

fallow = unproductive, unplowed

fastidious = meticulous, careful with details

fathom = understand, to measure the depth of

fatuous = inane, stupid

faux pas = false step, mistake

fealty = Loyalty

febrile = feverish, delirious

fecund = fertile, fruitful, productive

feign = pretend, give a false impression

felicitous = very appropriate, pertinent

fell = to chop, cut down

ferment = turmoil

ferret = rummage through

fervid = fervent, passionate

fervor (BRITISH = fervour) = intensity

fester = decay


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festive = joyous

fete = to honor

fetid = foul-smelling, putrid, stinking

fetter = to restrain, to bind

fiat = decreefickle = always changing one's mind

fidelity = Loyalty

filch = steal something of little value

filial = of a son or daughter

finicky = meticulous, fussy

firebrand = agitator

fissure = a crack or break

fitful = irregular

flaccid = limp, flabby, weakflagellate = whip

flagrant = outrageous, shameless

flail = whip

flair = a natural aptitude

flamboyant = Characterized by extravagance

flaunt = to show off

fledgling = just beginning, struggling

flippant = Having a light, pert, trifling disposition

flora = plants

florid = ruddy, with too much decoration

flout = to show disregard for the law or rules

fluster = confuse

foible = weakness, minor fault

foist = palm off a fake

foment = instigate

foray = raid

forbearance = Patient endurance or toleration of offenses

forte = A strong point

fortitude = patience, courage

fortuitous = happening by luck, fortunate

foster = encourage

fracas = noisy fight

fractious = wayward, unruly, disorderly

fraudulent = Counterfeit

fraught = filled

frenetic = harried, neurotic

frenzied = feverishly fast, hectic

fret = worry


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fritter = squander

frivolity = playfulness

frond = bending tree

fruition = realization, completion

fulminate = denounce, menacefulsome = excessive, insincere

funereal = mournful, appropriate to a funeral

furtive = stealthy

fusion = union, coalition

gainsay = to deny

gall = bitterness, nerve

galvanize = excite to action

gambol = Playful leaping or frisking

gamut = rangegargantuan = large

garner = gather

garnish = decorate

garrulous = talkative, loquacious, wordy

gauche = awkward, crude

gaunt = thin, emaciated

genealogy = ancestry

genesis = beginning

genre = kind, category

genuflect = kneel in reverence

germinate = To begin to develop into an embryo or higher form

ghastly = horrible

gibe = heckle

glean = gather

glib = insincere manner

glower = stare angrily

gnome = dwarf-like being

goad = encourage

gorge = stuff, satiate

gory = bloody

gossamer = thin and flimsy

gouge = overcharge, scoop out

grapple = struggle

grimace = expression of disgust

grisly = gruesome

grovel = crawl, obey

guffaw = laughter

guile = deceit, trickery


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gustatory = relevant to the sense of tasting

gusto = Keen enjoyment

guttural = throaty

hackneyed = trite

haggard = gaunthalcyon = serene

hale = healthy

hallow = to make holy

hamper = obstruct

hapless = unlucky

harangue = a pompous speech

harbinger = forerunner

harbor (BRITISH = harbour) = give shelter, conceal

harridan = hag or an ugly old womanharry = harass

haughty = arrogant

hedonism = the pursuit of pleasure in life

heedless = careless

hegira = a journey to a more pleasant place

heinous = shocking, wicked

hermetic = airtight, sealed

heterogeneous = composed of unlike parts, different

hew = to cut with an ax

hiatus = interruption

hibernal = wintry

histrionic = overly dramatic

hoary = white, old

holocaust = widespread destruction

homily = sermon

hone = sharpen

horde = group

hortatory = inspiring good deeds

hovel = shanty, cabin

hoyden = tomboy, boisterous girl

hubris = arrogance

hummock = knoll, mound

humus = soil

hypothetical = theoretical, speculative

ichthyology = study of fish

idyllic = natural, picturesque

ignominious = Shameful

illimitable = limitless


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imbue = infuse, dye, wet

immolate = sacrifice

immune = Exempt, as from disease

immure = build a wall around

impair = injureimpale = pierce

impassive = calm, without feeling

impeccable = faultless

impecunious = indigent, having no money

imperious = domineering

impertinent = insolent, rude

imperturbable = calm

impervious = Impenetrable

impetuous = quick to act without thinkingimpetus = stimulus, spark

impinge = encroach, touch

impious = not devout in religion

implacable = doubtful, dubious

implausible = unlikely, inconceivable

impolitic = unwise

imponderable = difficult to estimate

importune = urgent request

impregnable = totally safe from attack

imprimatur = sanction

improvident = lacking foresight or thrift

imprudent = unwise

impugn = criticize

impunity = exemption from harm

impute = charge

inadvertent = unintentional

inalienable = that which cannot be taken away

inane = vacuous, stupid

incandescent = brilliant

incantation = chant

incapacitate = disable

incarcerate = to put in a jail

incarnadine = blood-red in color

incendiary = burning easily, flammable

inception = The beginning

inchoate = just begun

incipient = beginning to exist

incisive = keen, penetrating


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inclement = harsh

incognito = disguised

incommunicado = unable to communicate with others

inconsequential = Valueless

incontrovertible = Indisputableincriminate = accuse

incubus = nightmare

inculcate = instill, indoctrinate, to teach

incumbent = obligatory, required

incursion = raid

indefatigable = never getting tired

indenture = bound to another by contract

indicative = suggestive, implying

indict = charge with a crimeindigenous = Native

indigent = very poor

indisputable = not disputed, unquestioned

indolent = lazy

indomitable = invincible, fearless

indubitable = unquestionable

ineffable = inexpressible

ineluctable = inescapable

inexorable = relentless, inflexible

infallible = incapable of making a mistake

infantile = childish, immature

infernal = hellish

infidel = nonbeliever

infirmity = ailment, disease

influx = inflow

infraction = violation

ingenuous = nave and unsophisticated

ingrate = ungrateful person

ingratiate = pleasing, flattering, endearing

inimical = adverse, hostile, unfriendly

inimitable = peerless

iniquitous = unjust, wicked

injurious = harmful

innocuous = Harmless

innovate = to invent, modernize

innuendo = indirect and subtle criticism

inopportune = untimely

inordinate = excessive


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inscrutable = cannot be fully understood

insensate = without feeling

insinuate = to suggest, imply, say indirectly

insipid = flat, dull, lacking flavor

insolent = insultinginsouciant = nonchalant

insubordinate = disobedient

insular = narrow-minded, isolated

insuperable = insurmountable

insurgent = rebellious

insurrection = uprising, rebellion

integrity = decency, honest, wholeness

integument = a covering

inter = buryinterdict = prohibit

interloper = intruder, meddler in others' affairs

interminable = unending

intermittent = starting and stopping

internecine = mutually destructive

interstice = a small space between things

intransigent = uncompromising

intrepid = fearless

introspective = looking within oneself

introvert = To turn within

inundate = flood

invective = verbal insult

inveigh = to rail against, protest strongly

inveigle = lure

inveterate = habitual, chronic, long-standing

invidious = incurring ill-will

invoke = request assistance or protection

iota = A small mark or part

irascible = irritable

iridescent = showing many colors

irresolute = hesitant, uncertain

irreverent = disrespectful

itinerant = Wandering, unsettled

jaded = spent, bored with one's situation

jaundice = disease of yellowish discoloration of skin

jejune = barren

jettison = to throw overboard, abandon

jingoism = extremely aggressive and militant patriotism


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jostle = push, brush against

juggernaut = unstoppable force

ken = range of comprehension

kismet = fate

knave = con manknead = massage

knell = sound of a funeral bell

lacerate = tear, cut

lachrymose = tearful

lackadaisical = Listless, idle

lackey = servant

lackluster (BRITISH = lacklustre) = dull, dreary, colorless

laity = laymen

lambent = softly radiantlampoon = satirize, to attack with satire

languor = Lassitude of body or depression

lapidary = relating to precious stones

larceny = theft of property

largess = generous donation

latitude = freedom from narrow limitations

laudable = Praiseworthy

lave = wash

lax = loose, careless

lectern = reading desk

legerdemain = trickery

levity = Frivolity, humor

lexicon = A dictionary

libertine = one without moral restraint

licentious = lewd, immoral

limn = portray, describe

limpid = transparent, clearly understood

lionize = treat as a celebrity

lissome (BRITISH = lissom) = agile, supple

litany = list

lithe = moving and bending with ease

litigation = lawsuit

litotes = understatement for emphasis

loathe = abhor, hate

loiter = dawdle, loaf

loquacious = Talkative

lout = goon

lugubrious = sad, sorrowful


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lull = moment of calm

lunar = related to the moon

lupine = wolf-like

lurid = glowing, shocking

luscious = Rich, sweet, and deliciousluxuriant = lush

macabre = gruesome

machination = plot or scheme

maelstrom = whirlpool, agitated state of mind

maim = injure

malapropism = comical misuse of a word

malcontent = one who is forever dissatisfied

malediction = curse

malefactor = evildoer, culpritmalodorous = fetid, foul-smelling

manacle = shackle

manifold = multiple, diverse

marauder = plunderer

maritime = Situated on or near the sea

martial = warlike, pertaining to the military

martinet = strict disciplinarian

masochist = one who enjoys pain

masticate = chew

matriarch = matron

maudlin = weepy, sentimental

maul = rough up

mausoleum = tomb

maverick = a person who resists adherence to a group

mawkish = sickeningly sentimental

mayhem = mutilation

meander = to wander aimlessly without direction

medley = mixture

megalomania = mental state with delusions of wealth and power

melee = riot

mellifluous = sweet sounding

mendacious = Untrue

mendicant = beggar

menial = humble, degrading

mercurial = changeable, volatile, quick

meretricious = Alluring by false or gaudy show

metaphor = figure of speech comparing two different things

mete = distribute


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mettle = courage, capacity for bravery

miasma = toxin

microcosm = The world on a small scale

mien = appearance, demeanor

migratory = Wandering from place to place with the seasonsminatory = threatening

minion = subordinate

minutiae = trivia

mire = marsh

mirth = jollity, laughter

miscegenation = intermarriage between races

miscellany = mixture of items

miscreant = one who behaves criminally

mishap = Misfortunemissive = letter or note

mnemonic = related to memory

modicum = a small amount

modish = chic

mollify = to calm or make less severe

molt = to shed hair, skin periodically

molten = melted

monastic = related to monks

monolithic = large and uniform

monotony = A lack of variation

moot = disputable, previously decided

morbid = abnormally gloomy

mordant = biting, sarcastic

mores = moral standards, customs

moribund = near death

mortify = humiliate

mote = speck, small particle

motley = diverse, many colored

mottled = spotted

mountebank = charlatan

muffle = stifle, quiet

mulct = defraud

multifarious = diverse, many-sided

munificent = generous

muse = ponder

muster = to gather one's forces

myriad = innumerable

naivet = a lack of worldly wisdom


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nascent = incipient, coming into existence

natal = related to birth

necromancy = sorcery, black magic

Nemesis = implacable foe, often victorious opponent

neologism = new word or expressionneophyte = beginner

nether = located under or below

nettle = irritate

niggardly = stingy

nihilism = a belief in nothing, extreme skepticism

noisome = harmful, stinking

nomadic = moving from place to place

non sequitur = an irrelevant conclusion

noncommittal = neutral, circumspectnonentity = person of no significance

nonplus = bring to a halt by confusion

nubile = marriageable

nugatory = useless, worthless

nuptial = relating to marriage

oaf = awkward person

obdurate = unyielding

obeisance = homage, deference

obelisk = tall column, monument

obfuscate = bewilder, muddle, to confuse

obituary = eulogy

objurgate = to chide, scold

oblation = offering, sacrifice

oblique = indirect

obliquity = perversity

obliterate = destroy

obloquy = slander, abusive language

obsequious = fawning, servile, overly submissive

obsequy = funeral ceremony

obstinate = stubborn

obstreperous = noisy, unruly, troublesome

obtuse = stupid, dull

occlude = block, to shut

odious = despicable, hateful

odoriferous = pleasant odor

offal = inedible parts of a butchered animal

offertory = church collection

ogle = flirt


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omnivorous = eating everything

onerous = burdensome

onus = burden

opalescent = iridescent, displaying colors

opportunist = One who takes advantage of circumstancesopprobrious = abusive, disgraceful

opprobrium = disgrace

opus = literary work of musical composition

ordain = appoint

orifice = a small opening

orison = prayer

ornithologist = scientist who studies birds

orotund = pompously said

ossify = hardenostensible = apparent, seeming

ostentatious = pretentious, showy

overt = open to view

overweening = arrogant, forward

pacifist = one who opposes all violence

paean = a song of praise

palaver = babble, nonsense

paleontologist (BRITISH = palaeontologist) = one who studies fossils

palette = board for mixing paints

pall = to become dull or weary

palliate = to make less serious, ease

pallid = pale, sallow, lacking color or liveliness

palpable = touchable, obvious, real

palpitate = beat, throb

paltry = scarce, pitifully small or worthless

panache = flamboyance, flair

pandemic = spread over a whole area or country

pandemonium = din, commotion

pander = cater to people's baser instincts

panegyric = praise

panoply = full suit of armor

pantomime = mime

papyrus = paper

paradox = seemingly in contradiction

paragon = model of excellence or perfection

paramour = lover

parapet = rampart, defense

parasite = one who lives at another's expense


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pariah = outcast

parley = conference, discussion

paroxysm = outburst, convulsion

parry = avert, ward off, reflect

parsimonious = stingypartisan = supporter

parvenu = newcomer, social climber

passe = outmoded

pastiche = imitation of another's style

pastoral = rustic

patent = the right to make or sell a new invention

pathos = emotion, feeling of sadness

patrician = aristocrat

patricide = murder of one's own fatherpatrimony = inheritance or heritage derived from one's father

peccadillo = a minor fault

peculate = embezzle, steal

peculation = theft of money or goods

pedagogue = dull, formal teacher

pedant = a person who is too interested in formal rules and small unimportant

details

pedantic = bookish

pediatrician (BRITISH = paediatrician) = a child doctor

pediment = triangular gable on a roof or faade

pejorative = insulting, having bad connotations

pell-mell = in a confused manner

pellucid = transparent, easily understood

penance = voluntary suffering to repent for a wrong

penchant = inclination

penitent = repentant

pensive = sad

penumbra = partial shadow in an eclipse

penurious = stingy

perdition = damnation, complete ruin

peregrination = wandering

peremptory = dictatorial

perennial = enduring, lasting

perfidious = treacherous ( of a person )

perforce = by necessity

perfunctory = careless, done in a routine way

perigee = point when moon is nearest to the earth

peripatetic = moving from place to place

perjury = lying


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permeable = penetrable

pernicious = destructive

peroration = conclusion of an oration

pert = flippant, bold

pertinacious = perseveringpertinent = Relevant, applicable

perusal = reading carefully

petrify = calcify, shock

petty = trivial

petulant = irritable, peevish

philistine = barbarian, narrow-minded person

philology = study of words

phlegmatic = sluggish, someone who is calm

picaresque = roguish, adventurouspied = mottled, brindled

pillory = punish by ridicule

piquant = tart-tasting, spicy

pique = sting, arouse interest

pithy = concise, to the point

pittance = alms, trifle

placid = Serene, calm

plaintiff = injured person in a lawsuit

plangent = plaintive, resounding sadly

platitude = trite remark, stale

platonic = nonsexual

plebeian = common, vulgar

plebiscite = referendum

plenitude = Abundance

plethora = overabundance

plumb = measure

poignant = pungent, sharp, emotionally moving

polemic = a controversy

politic = expedient, prudent, well devised

polity = methods of government

poltroon = coward

polyglot = Speaking several tongues

portend = omen

portend = signify, augur

portly = large, dignified

potable = suitable for drinking

potentate = sovereign, king

prate = babble


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prattle = chatter, foolish talk

preamble = introduction

precept = principle, law

precipice = cliff, edge

precipitous = steepprecocious = advanced

precursor = forerunner

predilection = inclination, preference

premeditate = plan in advance

preponderance = predominance

preposterous = ridiculous, illogical

presage = omen, indicate in advance

presentiment = sense of foreboding

preternatural = abnormalprim = formal, prudish

primogeniture = first-born child

primordial = existing at the beginning, rudimentary

primp = groom

privation = lack of usual necessities or comforts

probity = integrity, complete honesty

proboscis = snout

proclivity = inclination, tendency

prod = urge

prodigal = wasteful

prodigious = marvelous, enormous

profligate = licentious, prodigal, corrupt

profusion = overabundance

progenitor = ancestor

progeny = children

prognosis = forecast

prognosticate = foretell

prolix = long-winded, wordy

promontory = headland, cape

promulgate = publish, disseminate

propagate = To spread

propellant = rocket fuel

propensity = inclination

prophylactic = preventive

propinquity = nearness, kinship

propitiate = satisfy, to win over

propitious = auspicious, favorable

propound = propose


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prosaic = uninspired, flat, dull

proscenium = platform, rostrum

proscribe = prohibit, to condemn

proselytize (BRITISH = proselytise) = recruit, convert

prosody = study of poetic structureprotean = changing readily

protract = To prolong, extend

provender = dry food, fodder

provident = having foresight, thrifty

proviso = stipulation

prude = puritan

prudent = cautious, careful

prurient = exhibiting lewd desires

puerile = Childishpugnacious = combative, quarrelsome

puissant = strong

pulchritude = beauty

pummel = beat, attack

punctilious = careful in observing rules of behavior or ceremony

pungent = sharp smell or taste

purblind = obtuse, dim-sighted

purgatory = limbo, netherworld

purloin = To steal

purport = claim to be

purview = range, understanding

pusillanimous = cowardly

putative = reputed

putrid = dirty, rotten

quaff = to drink heartily

quagmire = difficult situation

quail = shrink, cower

quaint = old-fashioned

qualms = misgivings

quandary = dilemma, difficulty

quarry = prey, game

quay = wharf

queasy = squeamish

quell = suppress, allay

querulous = complaining

quibble = to argue about insignificant and irrelevant details

quiescent = still, motionless, at rest

quintessence = The most essential part of anything


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quip = joke

quirk = eccentricity

Quixotic = impractical, romantic

quizzical = odd

quorum = majorityrabid = mad, furious

raconteur = story teller

raiment = clothing

rampant = unbridled, raging

ramshackle = dilapidated, falling to pieces

rancor (BRITISH = rancour) = resentment, dislike

rankle = cause bitterness, resentment

rant = rage, scold

rapacious = grasping, avaricious, greedyrapprochement = reconciliation

ratiocination = reasoning

raucous = Harsh sounding

ravenous = extremely hungry

raze = destroy

reactionary = related to, or favoring reaction

realm = kingdom, domain

recalcitrant = resisting authority or control

recant = retract a statement

recidivism = habitual criminal activity

reciprocate = To give and take mutually

recondite = known to only a few

reconnaissance = surveillance

recreant = coward, betrayer of faith

recrimination = countercharge, retaliation

rectitude = moral uprightness

recumbent = reclining

redolent = fragrant

redoubtable = formidable, steadfast

redundant = repetitious

reek = smell

refectory = dining hall

refraction = bending, deflection

refractory = obstinate

regal = royal

regale = entertain

regimen = government rule, systematic plan

rehabilitate = To restore to a former status


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relegate = assign to an inferior position

remediable = capable of being corrected

reminiscence = remembrance of past events

remiss = Negligent

remnant = residue, fragmentremonstrate = to protest or object

remorse = guilt

rend = to tear apart

render = deliver, provide

rendezvous = a meeting

rendition = version, interpretation

renegade = rebel, dissident

renege = break a promise

reparation = amends, atonementrepartee = witty conversation

repellent = causing aversion

repercussion = consequence

repine = fret

replete = complete

reprehensible = blameworthy, unacceptable

reprieve = temporary suspension

reprimand = rebuke

reprisal = retaliation

reproach = blame

reprobate = morally unprincipled person

reprove = to criticize or correct

repudiate = to reject as having no authority

requiem = rest, a mass for the dead

requite = to return in kind

rescind = revoke, cancel

resilient = the quality of springing back

respite = interval or relief

resplendent = shining, splendid

restitution = act of compensating for loss or damage

restive = nervous, uneasy

retaliate = revenge

retinue = group of attendants

retort = quick replay

retrench = reorganize, to regroup

retribution = reprisal

retrieve = reclaim

retroactive = applying to an earlier time


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retrograde = regress

revelry = merrymaking

revere = honor

reverent = respectful

reverie = daydreamrevile = to criticize with harsh language

revulsion = aversion

ribald = coarse, vulgar

rife = widespread, abundant

rigor = harshness

rime = white frost

risible = laughable

risque = off-color, racy

rococo = ornate, highly decoratedroil = to disturb or cause disorder

roseate = rosy, optimistic

roster = list of people

rostrum = stage for public speaking

rout = vanquish

rubicund = ruddy, having healthy reddish color

ruffian = brutal person, bully

ruminate = reflect upon

rummage = hunt

ruse = trick

rustic = rural

sacerdotal = priestly

sacrosanct = sacred

sagacious = wise

sallow = sickly yellow in color

salubrious = healthy

salutary = good, wholesome

sanctimonious = self-righteous

sang-froid = coolness under fire

sanguinary = gory, murderous

sanguine = cheerful

sapid = interesting

sapient = wise, shrewd

sarcophagus = stone coffin

sardonic = scornful

sartorial = pertaining to clothes

sate = satisfy fully

saturnine = gloomy


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satyr = demigod, goat-man

saunter = walk in a leisurely manner

savant = scholar

savoir-faire = tact, polish

savor (BRITISH = savour) = enjoyscarify = criticize

schism = a division or separation

scintilla = very small amount

scintillate = sparkle

scoff = ridicule

scurrilous = abusive, insulting

scurry = move briskly

scuttle = to sink

sebaceous = like fatseclusion = solitude

secular = worldly, nonreligious

sedition = treason, resistance to authority

sedulous = diligent

seethe = fume, resent

semblance = likeness

senescence = old age

sensual = related to the physical senses

sententious = concise, trying to appear wise

sepulcher (BRITISH = sepulchre) = tomb

sequacious = eager to follow, ductile

sequester = to remove or set apart

seraphic = angelic, pure

serendipity = making fortunate discoveries

serenity = calm, peacefulness

serrated = toothed, with a zigzag edge

serried = saw-toothed

servile = slavish, obedient

shibboleth = password

shoal = reef

shrew = virago

sidereal = pertaining to the stars

simian = monkey like

simper = smile foolishly, smirk

sinecure = well paid position with little responsibility

sinewy = fibrous, stringy

sinuous = Curving in and out

skinflint = miser


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skittish = excitable

skulk = sneak about

skullduggery (BRITISH = skulduggery) = trickery

slake = to calm down or moderate

slander = defamesleight = dexterity

slither = slide

sloth = laziness

slough = to discard or shed

slovenly = sloppy

sluggard = lazy, inactive person

smattering = superficial knowledge

smirk = smug look

snivel = whinesobriety = composed

sobriquet = nickname

sodden = soaked

sojourn = trip, visit

solace = consolation

solecism = ungrammatical construction

solicitous = considerate, concerned

soliloquy = A monologue

solstice = furthest point

solvent = financially sound

somatic = pertaining to the body

somber (BRITISH = sombre) = Gloomy

somnambulist = sleepwalker

somnolent = Sleepy

sophist = person good at arguing deviously

sophomoric = immature and overconfident

soporific = sleep inducing

sordid = foul, ignoble, dirty and unpleasant

spasmodic = intermittent

spate = sudden outpouring

spawn = produce

specious = false but plausible

spectral = ghostly

splenetic = peevish

sporadic = occurring irregularly

sportive = playful

spry = nimble

spume = foam


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spurn = reject

squalid = filthy

staccato = marked by abrupt, clear-cut sounds

staid = demure, sedate, boring

stanza = division of a poemsteadfast = loyal, immovable

stentorian = extremely loud

stigma = mark of disgrace

stilted = formal, stiff, unnatural

stoic = indifferent to pain or pleasure

stoke = prod, fuel

stolid = impassive

stratagem = trick

stratum = layerstricture = negative criticism

strident = rough, harsh, caustic, loud

stultify = inhibit, enfeeble

stupor = lethargy

stymie = hinder, thwart

suave = smooth

sub rosa = in secret

sublimate = to repress impulses

sublime = lofty, excellent

subliminal = subconscious, imperceptible

substantiate = verify

substantive = substantial

subterfuge = cunning, ruse

succinct = Concise

succor (BRITISH = succour) = help, comfort

succulent = juicy, delicious

succumb = yield, submit

suffuse = pervade, permeate

sully = stain

sultry = sweltering

sunder = split

sundry = various

superannuated = retired

supercilious = arrogant

superficial = shallow and phony

supernumerary = subordinate

supplant = replace

supple = Easily bent


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surly = rude, crass

surmise = to guess

surmount = overcome

surreptitious = secretive

sustenance = supplying the necessities of lifesuture = surgical stitch

swarthy = dark (as in complexion)

Sybarite = pleasure-seeker, lover of luxury

sycophant = flatterer, flunky

sylvan = rustic

synchronous = happening at the same time

synthetic = artificial, imitation

taciturn = who does not talk much

tainted = contaminated, corrupttalisman = an object supposed to bring good luck

talon = claw of an animal

tantalize = tease

tantamount = equivalent

taper = candle

tarn = small lake

tarry = linger

taurine = bull-like

taut = tight, stretched

tawdry = gaudy, cheap

temerity = boldness

temperate = moderate

tempo = speed

temporal = limited by time, secular, not lasting forever

tenacious = persistent

tendentious = biased

tenet = doctrine, principle

tensile = capable of being stretched

tentative = provisional

tenuous = thin, insubstantial

tenure = status given after a period of time

tepid = lukewarm

terrapin = turtle

terse = concise, brief

testy = petulant

tether = tie down, tie with a rope

theocracy = government by the priests

therapeutic = medicinal


37/39


thespian = actor

thrall = slave

threnody = a sad poem or song, dirge

throes = anguish

throng = crowdthwart = to block or prevent from happening

timbre = tonal quality, resonance

timorous = fearful, timid

tirade = scolding speech

Titanic = huge

tithe = donate one-tenth

titular = in name only, figurehead

toady = fawner, sycophant

tocsin = alarm bell, signaltorpid = lethargic, inactive

tortuous = with bends or turns

touchstone = standard

traduce = slander

transcend = To surpass

transient = fleeting, temporary

translucent = clear, lucid, almost transparent

transmute = To change in nature or form

travail = work, drudgery

travesty = caricature, farce, parody

tremulous = trembling, fearful

trenchant = incisive, penetrating

trepidation = fear

tribunal = court

tribute = a gift or statement showing respect

trite = commonplace, insincere

troglodyte = cave dweller

truckle = yield

truculent = fierce, savage, tending to argue a lot

truism = self-evident truth

tryst = meeting, rendezvous

tumult = commotion

tundra = treeless plain found in Arctic or sub arctic regions

turbid = muddy, clouded

turbulence = violent agitation

turgid = Swollen, not flowing

turpitude = Depravity, evil

tutelage = guardianship


38/39


tyranny = oppression

tyro = beginner

umbrage = resentment

unassuming = modest

uncouth = uncultured, crudeunctuous = insincere

undulate = surge, fluctuate

uniformity = sameness

unkempt = messy in appearance

unobtrusive = inconspicuous, not blatant

unsavory (BRITISH = unsavoury) = distasteful, offensive

unscathed = unhurt

unseemly = unbecoming, improper

unsullied = spotlessuntenable = cannot be achieved

upbraid = to scold sharply

ursine = bear-like

usurp = seize, to appropriate

usury = overcharge, lending money at illegal rates of interest

uxorious = a doting husband

vacillate = To waver

vacuous = inane, empty, not showing intelligence or purpose

vagary = whim

vagrant = An idle wanderer

vainglorious = conceited

valor (BRITISH = valour) = bravery

vanguard = leading position

vapid = vacuous, insipid

variegated = many-colored

vassal = subject

vaunted = boasted, bragged

vehement = adamant

venal = willing to do wrong for money

vendetta = grudge, feud

veneer = false front, faade

venerable = respected because of age

venial = excusable

vent = small opening, outlet

venturesome = bold, risky

veracious = truthful, accurate

verdant = green, lush

verisimilitude = appearance of being true


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verity = Truth

vernal = related to spring

versatile = adaptable, all-purpose

vex = annoy, to irritate

viand = foodvicarious = substitute, surrogate

vicissitude = changing fortunes

victuals = food

vie = compete

vignette = scene, decorative design

vilify = defame

vindicate = free from blame

virile = manly

virulent = deadly, poisonousvisage = facial expression

viscid = thick, gummy

viscous = sticky, gluey, thick

vitiate = spoil, ruin

vitreous = glassy

vitriolic = scathing, burning

vociferous = adamant, clamoring

volition = free will

voluminous = bulky, extensive, or great quantity

wallow = indulge, luxuriate

wan = sickly pale

wane = dissipate, wither

warranty = guarantee of a product's soundness

wary = guarded, careful

wax = increase, grow

weather = endure the effects of weather or other forces

welter = confusion, hodgepodge

whet = stimulate, to sharpen

wily = shrewd, clever

winsome = charming

wizened = shriveled

wraith = ghost

wrangle = loud quarrel

wry = twisted, amusing

yoke = join together, unite

zephyr = gentle breeze, west wind

gre - the most difficult words

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