| Term | Definition |
| catharsis | an emotional or psychological cleansing that brings relief or renewal |
| caucus | the meeting of the members of a political party to make decisions |
| cerebral | of or relating to the brain; an intellectual person |
| certify | to confirm formally; verify |
| chasm | a deep opening in the earth's surface; a gorge; differences of opinion, interests, loyalties |
| chattel | an item of personal, movable property; slave |
| chide | to scold; to voice disapproval |
| chronic | continuing for a long time; continuous |
| circa | about; at an estimated historical time period |
| citadel | a fortress overlooking a city; a stronghold |