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abase v. ~ oneself/sb lower oneself/sb in dignity; degrade oneself/sb ; abash to destroy the self-possession or self-confidence of:disconcert abate v. make or become less abbreviate v. ~ sth shorten (a word, phrase, etc), esp by omitting letters abdicate v. resign from or formally renounce the throne aberrant adj. not following the normal or correct way aberration n. deviation from what is accepted as normal or right abet v. ~ sb (in sth) help or encourage sb to commit an offence or do sth wrong abeyance n. be in abeyance; fall/go into abeyance (of a right, rule, problem, etc) be suspended temporarily; not be in force or use for a time abhor v. feel hatred and disgust for (sb/sth); detest abide v. (esp with can/could, in negative sentences or questions can/could) tolerate (sb/sth); endure; bear abject adj. wretched; hopeless abjure v. promise or swear to give up (a claim, an opinion, a belief, etc); renounce formally ablution n. (fml or joc ) ceremonial washing of the body, hands, sacred vessels, etc abnegation n. denial or renunciation (of a doctrine) abode n. house; home abolish v. end the existence of abominable adj. ~(fml ) causing disgust; detestable abominate v. feel hatred or disgust for (sth/sb); detest; loathe aboriginal adj. inhabiting a land from a very early period, esp before the arrival of colonists abortive adj. coming to nothing; unsuccessful abrasive adj. that scrapes or rubs sth away; rough abridge v. make shorter, esp by using fewer words; condense abrogate v. cancel, repeal or annul (sth) abscission The act of cutting off, as in a surgical operation. abscond v. ~go away suddenly and secretly, esp in order to avoid arrest absolute adj. complete; total absolve v. ~ sb (fml esp law , ) clear sb (of guilt); declare sb free (from blame, a promise, a duty, etc) abstain v. ~ keep oneself from doing or enjoying sth, esp from taking alcoholic drinks; refrain ; abstemious adj. not taking much food or drink; not self-indulgent; moderate abstinence n. ~ abstaining, esp from food or alcoholic drinks abstract adj. existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or practical existence abstruse adj. difficult to understand abusive adj. criticizing harshly and rudely; insulting abut v. ~ on/against sth (of land or a building) have a common boundary or side with sth; adjoin sth abysmal adj. extremely bad abyss n. hole so deep that it seems to have no bottom academic adj. of schools, colleges, etc accede v. ~ (fml ) take office accelerate v. make move faster or happen earlier; increase the speed of accessible adj. ~ that can be reached, used, etc accessory n. thing that is a useful or decorative extra but that is not essential; minor fitting or attachment acclaim v. welcome (sb/sth) with shouts of approval; applaud loudly acclimate to adapt to a new temperature, altitude, climate, environment, or situation acclivity n. upward slope accolade n. praise; approval accommodate v. provide lodging or room for accomplice n. person who helps another to do sth wicked or illegal accord n. peace treaty; agreement accost v. approach and speak to (sb) boldly accoutre equip accretion n. growth or increase by means of gradual additions accrue v. ~ (from sth) come as a natural increase or advantage, esp financial; accumulate acerbity Sourness of taste, character, or tone. acetic adj. of, containing, producing, or derived from acetic acid or vinegar acidulous adj. rather sharp or bitter in taste or manner acknowledge v. accept the truth of admit (sth) acme n. highest stage of development; point of perfection acne n. inflammation of the oil-glands of the skin, producing red pimples on the face and neck acoustics n. qualities of a room, hall, etc that make it good or bad for carrying sound acquiesce v. ~ (fml ) accept sth without protest; offer no opposition (to a plan, conclusion, etc) acquittal n. judgement that a person is not guilty of the crime with which he has been charged acrid adj. having a strongly bitter smell or taste acrimonious adj. bitter acrophobia "acro'phobic adjectiv actuarial calculating; pertaining to insurance statistics actuary n. expert who calculates insurance risks and premiums actuate v. make (a machine, an electrical device, etc) move or work; make (a process) begin , ; acuity n. (esp of thought or the senses) sharpness; acuteness acumen n. ability to understand and judge things quickly and clearly; shrewdness acute adj. very great; severe adage n. traditional saying; proverb ; adamant adj. firmly or stubbornly determined; unwilling to be persuaded adapt v. ~ sth (for sth) make sth suitable for a new use, situation, etc; modify sth addendum n. thing that is to be added addiction n. ~ condition of taking drugs, etc habitually and being unable to stop doing so without suffering adverse effects addle v. confuse (sth/sb); muddle address n. details of where a person lives, works or can be found, and where letters, etc may be delivered adept adj. ~ ~ (at/in doing sth) expert or skilful in (doing) sth adhere v. ~ (to sth) remain attached (to sth); stick (as if) by means of glue or suction adherent n. supporter of a party or doctrine adjacent having a common endpoint or border also immediately preceding or following adjoin v. be next or nearest to and joined with adjourn v. stop (a meeting, etc) for a time; postpone adjunct n. ~ thing that is added or attached to sth else but is less important and not essential adjuration solemn urging adjutant n. army officer responsible for administrative work in a battalion admonish to express warning or disapproval to especially in a gentle, earnest, or solicitous manner adore v. love deeply and respect (sb) highly adorn v. ~ sth/sb/oneself add beauty or ornament to sth/sb/oneself adroit adj. ~ skilful; clever adulation n. excessive admiration or praise; flattery adulterate v. make poorer in quality by adding another substance Advent n. the ~ of sth/sb the approach or arrival of adventitious adj. not planned; accidental adversary n. opponent in a contest; enemy adverse adj. not favourable; contrary adversity n. unfavourable conditions; trouble advert n. = advertisement advocacy n. ~ giving of support (to a cause, etc) advocate v. speak publicly in favour of (sth); recommend; support aegis n. under the aegis of sb/sth with the protection or support of sb/sth, esp a public institution aerie = eyrie aesthetic adj. concerned with beauty and the appreciation of beauty affable adj. polite and friendly affected adj. not natural or genuine; pretended; artificial affidavit n. written statement that can be used as evidence in court, made by sb who swears that it is true affiliation n. affiliating or being affiliated affinity n. ~ ~ (between A and B) structural resemblance or similarity of character; relationship affirmation n. affirming affix v. ~ sth (fml ) stick, fasten or attach sth affliction n. pain; suffering; distress affluence n. abundance of money, goods or property; wealth affront n. ~ (to sb/sth) deliberately insulting or disrespectful remark, action, etc, esp in public afterlife n. existence that is thought by some to follow death agape adj. ~ (of the mouth) wide open, esp with wonder agenda n. matters of business to be discussed at a meeting, etc agglomeration n. action of agglomerating aggrandize to make appear great or greater:praise highly aggregate v. ~ sb (fml ) be formed or bring sb into an assembled group or amount aghast adj. ~ filled with horror or amazement agility nimbleness agitate v. cause anxiety to (a person, his feelings, etc); disturb; excite agnostic n. person who believes that nothing can be known about the existence of God or of anything except material things agog adj. eager; excited agrarian adj. of land airy adj. having plenty of fresh air moving about; well-ventilated alacrity n. prompt and eager readiness alchemy n. medieval form of chemistry, the chief aim of which was to discover how to turn ordinary metals into gold , alcove n. small space in a room, etc formed by part of the wall being set back; recess alias n. name by which a person is called at other times or in other places; false name alienate v. ~ sb cause sb to become unfriendly or indifferent; estrange sb alimentary adj. of food and digestion alimony n. allowance that a court may order a man to pay to his wife or former wife before or after a legal separation or divorce allay v. make (sth) less; relieve allege v. state (sth) as a fact but without proof; give as an argument or excuse allegiance n. ~ (to sb/sth) support of or loyalty to a government, ruler, cause, etc allegory n. story, painting or description in which the characters and events are meant as symbols of purity, truth, patience, etc , alleviate v. make less severe; ease alliteration n. occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of two or more words in succession, as in sing a song of sixpence or as thick as thieves , sing a song of sixpence as thick as thieves allocate v. ~ sth allot or assign sth (to sb/sth) for a special purpose alloy n. metal formed of a mixture of metals or of metal and another substance allude v. ~ to sb/sth (fml ) mention sb/sth briefly or indirectly allure v. tempt or attract (sb) by the expectation of gaining sth allusion n. ~ indirect reference alluvial adj. made of sand, earth, etc left by rivers or floods, esp in a delta alms n. money, clothes, food, etc given to poor people aloft adv. up in the air; overhead aloof adj. ~ cool and remote in character; unconcerned altercation n. (act of) quarrelling or arguing noisily altruistic (adj.) unselfish amalgam n. alloy of mercury with another metal amalgamate v. ~ (with sb/sth) (cause people or things to) combine or unite amass v. gather together or collect (sth), esp in large quantities amazon n. tall strong athletic woman ambidextrous adj. able to use the left hand or the right hand equally well ambience n. environment; atmosphere of a place ambiguous adj. having more than one possible meaning ambivalence the state of having contradictory or conflicting emotional attitudes amble v. ride or walk at a slow, leisurely pace ambrosia n. food of the gods ambulatory walking ambush n. waiting in a hidden position to make a surprise attack ameliorate v. (cause sth to) become better amenable adj. ~ (of people) willing to be influenced or controlled (by sth) amend v. correct an error in (sth); make minor improvements in; change slightly amenities [ amenity: ] [often pl] a useful or pleasant facility or service amiable adj. showing and inspiring friendliness; pleasant and good-tempered amicable adj. showing friendliness; without hostility amiss adj. , adv wrong(ly); inappropriate(ly) amity n. friendly relationship between people or countries amnesia n. partial or total loss of memory amnesty n. general pardon, esp for offences against the State amok adv. run amok rush about in a wild and angry frenzy amoral adj. not based on moral standards; not following any moral rules ; amorous adj. readily showing or feeling love; relating to love amorphous adj. having no definite shape or form; not organized amphibian n. animal able to live both on land and in water amphitheater oval building with tiers of seats ample adj. enough amplify v. increase (sth) in size or strength amputate v. cut off by surgical operation amulet n. piece of jewellery, etc worn as a charm1( anachronism n. mistake of placing sth in the wrong historical period analgesia n. loss of ability to feel pain while still conscious analgesic adj. n substance that relieves pain analogous adj. ~ partially similar or parallel; offering an analogy analogy n. ~ partial similarity between two things that are compared anarchist n. person who believes in anarchism anarchy n. absence of government or control in society; lawlessness anathema n. detested person or thing anathematize declare to be evil or anathema ancestry n. line of ancestors anchor n. heavy metal device attached to a rope, chain, etc and used to moor a ship or boat to the sea-bottom or a balloon to the ground ancillary adj. ~ helping in a subsidiary way anecdote n. short, interesting or amusing story about a real person or event , anemia condition in which blood lacks red corpuscles anesthetic = anaesthesia, anaesthetic anguish n. severe physical or mental pain angular adj. having angles or sharp corners animadversion n. criticism animated adj. lively animosity n. ~ ~ (between A and B) (instance of) strong dislike or of hostility animus n. animosity shown in speech or action annals n. story of events year by year; historical records anneal v. make tough by cooling slowly after heating annex v. take possession of annihilate v. destroy completely annotate v. add notes to giving explanation or comment annuity n. fixed sum of money paid to sb yearly, usu for the remaining part of his lifetime annul v. declare (sth) no longer valid; abolish; cancel anodyne n, adj that can relieve pain anoint v. ~ sb apply oil or ointment to sb (esp as a religious ceremony) anomalous adj. different from what is normal; irregular anomaly n. anomalous thing; irregularity anonymity n. state of being anonymous antagonism n~ ~ (between A and B) (instance of) active opposition or hostility, esp between two people antagonistic adj. ~ showing or feeling antagonism; hostile antecede be earlier in time; go back further antecedents ancestr antediluvian adj. of the time before Noah's Flood anthem n. short musical composition, usu for a choir and an organ, to be sung in religious services, often with words taken from the Bible , anthology n. collection of poems or pieces of prose on the same subject or by the same writer anthropoid adj. man-like in form anthropologist n. student of or expert in anthropology anthropomorphic adj. treating gods, animals, etc as human in form and personality , anticlimax n. disappointing end to a series of events which had seemed likely to become more interesting, exciting or impressive antidote n. ~ substance that acts against the effects of a poison or disease antipathy settled aversion or dislike:DISTASTE antiquated adj. (of things) out of date, obsolete , antique adj. belonging to the distant past antiquity n. ancient times, esp before the Middle Ages antiseptic n. substance that prevents a wound, etc from becoming septic, esp by destroying bacteria antithesis n. ~ (of/to sth/sb) direct opposite antler n. branched horn of a stag or of some other deer anvil n. iron block on which a smith shapes heated metal by hammering it apathetic adj. showing or feeling apathy apathy n. ~ lack of interest, enthusiasm or concern; indifference ape n. any of the four primates (gorilla, chimpanzee, orang-utan, gibbon) most closely related to man . aperture n. narrow opening apex n. top or highest point aphasia n. partial or total loss of ability to speak or understand spoken language, caused by damage to the brain aphorism n. short wise saying; maxim ; apiarist n. person who keeps bees apiary n. place with a number of hives where bees are kept apiculture the cultivation of bees on a commercial scale for the production of honey aplomb n. confidence and self-control; poise apocalyptic adj. prophesying great and dramatic events like those in the Apocalypse apocryphal adj. not likely to be genuine; untrue or invented apogee n. position in the orbit of the moon, a planet or a satellite when it is at its greatest distance from the earth , apolitical adj. not interested or involved in politics apologist n. person who defends a doctrine by logical argument apoplexy n. sudden inability to feel or move, caused by the blockage or rupture of an artery in the brain , apostate n. person who renounces his former beliefs, etc apothecary n. person who prepares and sells medicines and medical goods apothegm = apophthegm apotheosis n. (of a human being) making or becoming a god or a sain appall to overcome with consternation, shock, or dismay apparent adj. clearly seen or understood; obvious apparition n. appearance, esp of sth startling, strange or unexpected , appease v. make quiet or calm, usu by making concessions or by satisfying demands appellation n. name or title; system of naming ; append v. ~ sth (fml ) attach or add sth (esp in writing) application n. ~ (to sb) (for sth) formal request apposite adj. ~ (of a remark, etc) very appropriate (for a purpose or an occasion) appraise v. assess the value or quality of appreciate v. understand and enjoy (sth); value highly apprehend v. seize (sb); arrest apprehensive adj. ~ ~ (that.../for sb/sth) feeling anxiety; fearful; uneasy apprise v. ~ sb of sth inform sb of sth approbation n. approval; consent appropriate adj. ~ suitable; right and proper appurtenances [ appurtenance: ] a secondary or less significant thing or part apropos adv, adj appropriate or relevant to what is being said or done aptitude n. ~ natural ability or skill aquiline adj. of or like an eagle arable n. , adj suitable for ploughing and for growing crops arbiter n. ~ person who has power to decide what will be done, accepted, etc with regard to sth arbitrary adj. based on personal opinion or impulse, not on reason arbitrate v. ~ (between A and B) make a judgement about or settle (a dispute) between two parties (usu when asked by them to do so) arboreal adj. of or living in trees arboretum n. place where trees are grown for scientific study or for display arcade n. covered passage or area, esp one with an arched roof and shops along one or both sides arcane requiring secret or mysterious knowledge arch- comb form chief; most important archaeology n. study of ancient civilizations by scientific analysis of physical remains found in the ground archaic adj. of a much earlier or an ancient period in history archetype n. original or ideal model from which others are copied; prototype ; archipelago n. (sea surrounding a) group of many islands archives n. historical documents or records of a government, town, etc ardor extreme vigor or energy:INTENSITY arduous adj. needing much effort or energy; laborious argot n. words and phrases used by a particular group and not intended to be understood by others; cant ; aria n. song for one voice, esp in an opera or oratorio arid adj. having little or no rainfall; dry aristocracy n. highest social class; the nobility armada n. large fleet of ships aromatic adj. having a pleasant, distinctive smell; fragrant arraign v. ~ sb (law ) bring a criminal charge against sb; bring sb to court for trial array v. place (esp armed forces, troops, etc) in battle order arrears n. money that is owed and should have been paid earlier arrhythmic lacking rhythm or regularity arrogance a feeling or an impression of superiority manifested in an overbearing manner or presumptuous claims arroyo a brook; a creek a water-carved gully or channel arsenal n. place where weapons and ammunition are made or stored artery n. any of the tubes carrying blood from the heart to all parts of the body artful adj. cunningly clever at getting what one wants; crafty articulate adj. able to express one's ideas clearly in words artifacts something created by humans usually for a practical purpose; especially :an object remaining from a particular period artifice n. clever trickery; deception artisan a manually skilled worker artless adj. simple and natural; without deceit ascendancy n. ~ (position of) having dominant power or control ascertain v. discover (sth) so that one is certain; get to know ascetic adj. not allowing oneself pleasures and comforts; having or involving a very austere life ascribe v. ~ sth to sb/sth consider sth to be caused by, written by or belonging to sb/sth aseptic adj. free from bacteria that cause a thing to become septic; surgically clean ashen adj. like ashes in colour; very pale asinine adj. stupid or stubborn askance adv. look askew adj. , adv not in a straight or level position; crooked asperity n. harshness or severity, esp of manner aspersion slanderous remark aspirant n. ~ (fml ) person who is ambitious (for fame, promotion, success, etc) aspiration n. ~ ~ (to do sth) strong desire or ambition aspire v. ~ after/to sth desire strongly to achieve sth; have ambition for sth assail v. ~ sb (fml ) attack sb violently or repeatedly assay n. testing of esp metals for quality assent n. ~ (fml ) agreement; approval assert v. make others recognize (sth) by behaving firmly and confidently assessment n. action of assessing assiduous adj. showing constant and careful attention assimilate v. (cause sth to) become absorbed into the body after digestion assuage v. make (sth) less severe; soothe assumption n. thing accepted as true or as sure to happen, but not proved assurance n. confident belief in one's own abilities and powers asteroid n. any of many small planets revolving round the sun, esp between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter astigmatism n. defect in an eye or a lens that prevents correct focusing astral adj. of or from the stars astringent n. substance, used medically or in cosmetics, that makes skin or body tissue contract and so stops bleeding astronomical adj. of astronomy astute adj. clever and quick at seeing how to gain an advantage; shrewd asunder adv. into pieces; apart asylum n. safety; refuge asymmetric adj. not having parts that correspond to each other in size, shape, etc; lacking symmetry atavism n. reappearance in a person of a characteristic or quality that has not been seen in his family for many generations atheistic adj. atone v. ~ (fml ) act in a way that compensates for a previous wrong, error, etc atrocity n. great wickedness or cruelty atrophy n. wasting away of the body or part of it through lack of nourishment or use attentive adj. ~ giving attention (to sb/sth); alert and watchful attenuate v. make (sth/sb) thin or slender attest v. ~ (to) sth be or give clear proof of sth attire n. clothes; dress attribute v. ~ sth to sb/sth regard sth as belonging to, caused by or produced by sb/sth attrition n. process of gradually weakening sb's strength and confidence by continuous harassment atypical adj. not representative or characteristic of its type; not typical audacious adj. showing a willingness to take risks; daring; fearless audit n. official examination of accounts to see that they are in order augment v. make (sth) larger in number or size; increase augury omen; prophecy august majestic, venerable aureole sun's corona; halo auroral [ aurora: ] an atmospheric phenomenon consisting of bands, curtains, or streamers of light, usually green, red, or yellow, that move across the sky in polar regions. auspicious adj. showing signs of future success; favourable; promising austere adj. severely and strictly moral; having no pleasures or comforts austerity n. quality of being austere authenticate Rractical experience of sth authoritarian adj. favouring complete obedience to authority before personal freedom authoritative adj. having authority; that can be trusted; reliable autocrat n. ruler of an autocracy autocratic adj. automaton n. = robot 1 autonomous adj. self-governing; acting independently autopsy n. examination of a dead body to learn the cause of death; post-mortem () auxiliary adj. giving help or support; additional avalanche n. mass of snow, ice and rock that slides rapidly down the side of a mountain avarice n. greed for wealth or gain avenge v. take or get revenge for aver v. (fml ) state (sth) firmly and positively; assert ; averse adj. ~ to sth not liking sth; opposed to sth aversion n. ~ strong dislike avert v. ~ sth turn sth away aviary n. large cage or building for keeping birds in, eg in a zoo , avid adj. ~ eager; greedy avocation secondary or minor occupation avow v. declare (sth) openly; admit avuncular adj. of or like an uncle, esp in manner awe n. feeling of respect combined with fear or wonder awful adj. extremely bad or unpleasant; terrible awl n. small pointed tool for making holes, esp in leather or wood awry adv. crookedly; out of position; askew ; axiom n. statement that is accepted as true without further proof or argument azure n. , adj bright blue, as of the sky abacus frame with balls for calculating abate to lessen to subside abdication giving up control authority aberration straying away from what is normal abet help/encourage smb (in doing wrong) abeyance suspended action abhor to hate to detest abide be faithful to endure abjure promise or swear to give up abraded rubbed off worn away by friction abrogate repeal or annul by authority abscond to go away suddenly (to avoid arrest) abstruse difficult to comprehend obscure abut border on abysmal bottomless extreme acarpous effete no longer fertile worn out acclaimed welcomed with shouts and approval accolade praise approval accretion the growing of separate things into one accrue accumulate adamant kind of stone inflexible admonitory containing warning adorn add beauty decorate adulteration making unpure poorer in quality affable polite and friendly affinity close connection relationship aggravate make worse irritate agile active quick-moving agog eager/excited ail trouble be ill alacrity eager and cheerful readiness alcove recess/partially enclosed place ale fermented alcoholic beverage similar to but heavier than beer aleck one who considers himself smarter than others allegiance duty support loyalty alleviate make (pain) easier to bear alloy to debase by mixing with something inferior aloof reserved indifferent amalgamate mix combine unite societies ambidextrous able to use the left hand or the right equally well ambiguous doubtful uncertain ambivalent having both of two contrary meanings ambrosial extremely pleasing to taste ameliorate improve make better amortize end (a debt) by setting aside money anguish severe suffering animosity strong dislike antidote medicine used against a poison or a disease antithetical direct opposing apartheid brutal racial discrimination aplomb self-confidence apostate one who abandons long-held religious or political convictions apotheosis deification glorification to godliness appease make quiet or calm apprehensive grasping understanding fear unhappy feeling about future apprise give notice to inform approbation approval apropos appropriate to the situation apt apt well-suited quick-witted arabesque a complex ornate design arboreal of connected with trees ardor enthusiasm arduous steep difficult ascent laborious argot jargon slang arrant in the highest degree arrogance proud superior manner of behaviour articulate speak distinctly connect by joints ascend go or come up ascertain get to know ascetic practicing self-denial austere stark ascribe consider to be the origin of or belonging to aseptic surgically clean asperity roughness harshness ill temper irritability aspersion slander assail with attack violently assiduous diligent hard-working sedulous assuage make something (pain desire) less asterisk the mark * (e.g.. omitted letters) astringent substance that shrinks astute clever quick at seeing to get an advantage atonement repayment death of Jesus attenuate make thin. weaken enervate attune bring into harmony audacious daring foolishly bold impudent augury omen sign august majestic venerable auspicious favorable successful prosperous austere severely moral and strict simple and plain auxiliary helping supporting aver affirm assert prove justify aversion strong dislike avid eager greedy avow admit. Declare openly baleful harmful ominous causing evil balk obstacle purposely to get on the way of baneful causing harm or ruin pernicious destructive barrage artificial obstacle built across a river barren not good enough unable to have young ones without value bask in enjoy warmth and light beatify to bless make happy or ascribe a virtue to bedizen to adorn especially in a cheap showy manner belabor beat hard bellicose belligerent pugnacious warlike belligerent (person nation) waging war benefactor person who has given help benevolence wish or activity in doing good benign kind and gentle mild (climate) bequest arrangement to give something at death berate scold sharply bereft rob or dispossess of something (material) bewilder puzzle confuse bigot stubborn narrow-minded person bilge bulge the protuberance of a cask blandishment flattery coaxing blandness polite manner comforting uninteresting blatant noisy and rough blithe cheerful casual carefree bogus sham counterfeit not genuine boisterous loud noisy rough lacking restraint bolster give greatly needed support boorish crude offensive rude brash hasty rush cheeky saucy brass yellow metal (mixing copper and zinc) brazen made of brass breach opening broken place breaking brittle easily broken broach bring up announce begin to talk about brook to tolerate endure buoyant able to float light-hearted burgeon grow forth send out buds burnish to polish rub to a shine cabal a scheme or plot a group of plotters cadge to beg to get by begging cajole use flattery or deceit to persuade calipers metal supports attached to the legs measuring instrument calumny slander aspersion candid frank straight-forward cant insincere talk/jargon cantankerous bad-tempered/quarrelsome canvass discuss thoroughly sort of touting castigate to chastise correct by punishing castigation severe punishment catalyst substance that causes speeding up caustic biting sarcastic censure expression of blame or disapproval a rebuke centurion leader of a unit of 100 soldiers chary cautious wary chastened corrected punished chastisement punishment chauvinist a blindly devoted patriot chicanery legal trickery/false argument chisel steel tool for shaping materials churl bad-tempered person clamor shout complain with a lot of noise clientele customers clinch come to grips/settle conclusively cling to resist separation clot half-solid lump formed from liquid cloture closing device (in Parliament) to end a debate by voting coagulation change to a thick and solid state coalescing coming together and uniting into one substance coax get smb to do something by kindness coda passage that completes a piece of music coddle treat with care and tenderness coerce compel to force to make obedient coeval of the same period coexisting cogent strong convincing cogitate think deeply mediate cognizant being fully aware of cohort a group or band of people colander bowl-shaped vessel with many holes used to drain off water collusion secret agreement for a deceitful purpose combustion process of burning commemorate keep the memory of commodious having plenty of space for what is needed commuter person who travels regularly complaisance tending to comply obliging willingness to please compunction feeling of regret for one's action conceal hide keep secret conceit over-high opinion of too much pride conciliatory reconciling soothing comforting mollifying concord agreement or harmony concur agree in opinion happen together condense increase in density strength make laconic Conduce To bring about condone forgive congeal make or become stiff and solid conjoin to join together connoisseur a person with good judgement (e.g.. in art) connotation suggestion in addition to consequential pompous self important console give comfort or sympathy to conspicuous easily seen remarkable consternation surprise and fear dismay constrain compel constrict make tight or smaller consume get to the end of consummate perfect/make perfect/complete contemn to scorn or despise contentious argumentative pugnacious combative quarrelsome contiguous touching neighboring near contrite filled with deep sorrow for wrongdoing contumacious insubordinate rebellious conundrum a riddle dilemma enigma conviction convincing firm belief convoke call together summon convoluted complicated coiled twisted cordial warm and sincere cordon line (of police acting as a guard) cornucopia abundant supply corporeal physical of or for the body correlate have a mutual relation corroboration additional strengthening evidence countenance to favor or approve of counterfeit forgery countervail counterbalance covert disguised covetous eagerly desirous cower crouch shrink back coy shy/modest (esp of a girl) crass very great (es. stupidity) cravat piece of linen worn as a necktie craven cowardly crease line made by crushing white line on the ground in cricket credulity too great a readiness to believe things credulous ready to believe things crush press lose shape subdue overwhelm cryptic secret with a hidden meaning cumbersome burdensome heavy and awkward to carry curmudgeon bad-tempered person curriculum course of study cursory quick hurried curtail make shorter then was planned dainty pretty/delicate(food)/difficult to please daunt intimidate make fearful dawdler person who is slow waste of time dearth shortage debacle a breakup overthrow sudden disaster decorum propriety properness decree order given by authority decry disapprove of defer postpone give way (to show respect) deferential showing respect defiance open disobedience or resistance delineate to portray depict sketch out deluge great flood heavy rush of water demagogue person appealing not to reasons demur to hesitate raise objections denigrate blacken belittle sully defame denouement an outcome or solution the unraveling of a plot deplete use until none remains deposition dethronement depositing deprave make morally bad corrupt deprecate protest against express disapproval of dereliction deserting and leaving to fall into ruins derision ridicule mockery deriding derivative unoriginal obtained from another source derogatory insulting tending to damage descry catch sight of see something in the distance desiccant substance used to absorb moisture desuetude cessation of use disuse desultory aimless haphazard digressing at random deter discourage hinder detraction slandering verbal attack aspersion detumescence diminishing or lessening of swelling deviance being different in moral standards (from normal) dexterity skill (esp. in handling) diaphanous transparent gauzy diatribe bitter and violent attack in words didactic intended to instruct diffidence shyness dilate speak comprehensively become wider large disallow refuse to allow or accept as a correct discern see with an effort but clearly discomfit confuse embarrass disconcert upset the self-possession of discountenance refuse to approve of discourse speech lecture discredit refuse to believe discreet careful/prudent discrete individually distinct disdain look on with contempt disencumber free from encumbrance disheveled untidy disingenuous sophisticated artful trying to deceive cunning disinter dig up from the earth dislodge move force from the place occupied dismal sad gloomy miserable disparate essentially different disproof proof to the contrary dissemble speak or behave so as to hide something (in mind) disseminate distribute (esp. ideas) dissent have a different opinion refuse to assent dissolution disintegration looseness in morals distraught distracted violently upset in mind divergence getting farther apart from a point divestiture taking off getting rid of giving up divulge make known something secret doggerel trivial poorly constructed verse dogmatic positive certain arbitrary without room for discussion dolt stupid fellow dormant in a state of inactivity but awaiting development dote show much fondness center one's attention drawl slow way of speaking droll jesting drone male bee person who isn't self-employed drowsiness feeling sleepy half asleep dubious feeling doubt dud no use person something that fails dulcet melodious harmonious dupe cheat make a fool of duplicity deliberate deception duress threats to compel smb dwarf person or smb much below the usual size dynamo a generator something that produces electric current earthenware dishes made of baked clay ebullience exuberance outburst of feeling ebullient overflowing with enthusiasm showing excitement ecumenical representing the whole Christian world edacious voracious devouring eddy circular or spiral movement (e.g.. of wind) edible fit to be eaten/not poisonous effete infertile worn out weak efficacy production of a desired result effluvia outflow in a stream of particles a noxious odor or vapor effrontery boldness impudence arrogance egress way out exit elaborate worked out with much care in great detail elegy a lament a melancholy composition elicit draw out eloquence fluent speaking skillful use of language emaciate make thin and weak embellish make beautiful embezzle use in a wrong way for one's own benefit emote stir up excite empirical relying on experiment encapsulate enclose in capsule encomium warm or glowing praise eulogy panegyric encumbrance burden things that get on the way of endearing making dear or liked endemic epidemic endorse write one's name on the back of enduring lasting enervate weaken deprive of strength attenuate engender cause produce give rise to engrave impress deeply engrossing taken up all the time or attention writing in large or formal engulf swallow up enigma something that is puzzling enmity hatred being an enemy ensign flag/badge entangle put into difficulties enthral please greatly/enslave (fig) entice tempt or persuade entreat ask earnestly enunciate pronounce (words)/express a theory enzyme catalyst epicurean devoted to pleasure (sensuous enjoyment) epistle letter epithet adjective epitome brief summary representative example a typical model equable steady regular equanimity calmness of temperament equilibrium state of being balanced equipoise equal distribution of weight equilibrium equivocal having a double or doubtful meaning suspicious equivocate try to deceive by equivocal language eradicate get rid of pull up by the roots erratic irregular in behaviour or opinion erudite learned scholarly eschew avoid esoteric abstruse intended only for a small circle of espouse marry give one's support to eulogy formal praise panegyric euphoria elation state of pleasant excitement euthanasia easy and painless death evasive tending to evade evince to show clearly to indicate evoke call up bring out excoriation severe criticism exculpate to clear from a charge of guilt exhaustive complete thorough exigency emergency an urgent situation exoneration set smb clear free (e.g.. from blame) exorbitant much too high or great expatiate to roam wander freely expedient likely to be useful for a purpose expiation ending expiring exploit brilliant achievement develop use selfishly expostulate argue earnestly to dissuade correct or protest expurgate to remove obscenity purify censor exscind to cut out cut away extant still in existence extempore without previous thought or preparation extenuate reduce the strength of lessen seriousness partially excuse extinct no longer active extinguish end the existence of/wipe or put out extirpate to destroy exterminate cut out exscind extol praise highly extort obtain by threats violence extralegal outside the law extricable that can be freed extrovert cheerful person exuberance state of growing vigorously being full of life facetious humorous funny jocular facile easily done fagged too tired, exhausted fallacious based on error falter waver/move in an uncertain manner fatuous without sense foolish self-satisfaction fawn young deer try to win smb's favor feckless lacking purpose or vitality ineffective careless fecund fertile feint pretend felicitous apt suitably expressed well chosen apropos felon person guilty of murder ferment substance become excited ferocity savage cruelty ferret discover by searching search fervid showing earnest feeling fervor warmth of feelings earnestness fetid stinking fetter to shackle put in chains feud bitter quarrel over a long period of time fidelity loyalty accuracy fidget move restlessly make nervous figurehead carved image on the prow of a ship finesse delicate way of dealing with a situation finical too fussy about food clothing etc. finicky finical fission splitting or division (esp. of cells) fixate stare at flak criticism/anti-aircraft guns flamboyant brightly colored florid flaunting show off complacently flax pale yellow (hair) a plant fledged able to fly trained experienced fleet number of ships quick-moving flinch draw move back wince flop fail/move/fall clumsily florid very much ornamented naturally red (e.g.. of face) flout reject mock to go against (as in going against tradition) fluke lucky stroke fluster make nervous or confused foible defect of character (a person is wrongly proud) foil prevent from carrying out contrast foment put something warm (to lessen the pain) foolproof incapable of failure or error foppish like a man who pays too much attention to his clothes forage food for horses and cattle forbear refrain from be patient ancestor forbearance patience willingness to wait ford shallow place in a river (to cross) forestall prevent by taking action in advance preempt forfeit suffer the loss of something forge workshop for the shaping of metal to shape metal lead forgery counterfeit forswear renounce disallow repudiate foster nurture care for fracas noisy quarrel fragile easily injured broken or destroyed fragrant sweet-smelling frantic wildly excited with joy pain anxiety frenetic frantic frenzied fret worry irritation wear away fringe edge ornamental border part of hair over the forehead froward intractable not willing to yield or comply stubborn frugal careful economical fulmination bitter protest fulsome disgusting offensive due to excessiveness gainsay to deny to oppose garble make unfair selection from facts garner to gather and save to store up garrulity talkativeness garrulous too talkative gaucherie socially awkward tactless behavior germane relevant pertinent to gist the point general sense glean gather facts in small quantities glib ready and smooth but not sincere glimmer weak/unsteady light gloat over look at with selfish delight glut supply to much fill to excess gnaw waste away bite steadily goad something urging a person to action gorge eat greedily/narrow opening with a stream gossamer soft light delicate material gouge tool for cutting grooves in wood gourmand a person who is devoted to eating and drinking to excess grandiloquent using pompous words grave serious requiring consideration graze touch or scrape lightly in passing gregarious living in societies liking the company grievous causing grief or pain serious dire grave grovel crawl humble oneself guile deceit cunning gullible easily gulled gush burst out suddenly/talk ardently gust outburst of feeling sudden rain wind fire etc. hack cut roughly hired horse halcyon calm and peaceful hallow to make holy consecrate harangue a long passionate speech harbinger something or smb that foretells the coming of harrow to distress create stress or torment haughty arrogant conceited heed attention/give notice to heinous odious (of crime) heresy belief contrary to what is generally accepted hermetic sealed by fusion heterogeneous made up of different kinds hew make by hard work cut (by striking) highbrow (person) with superior tastes hirsute hairy shaggy hoax mischievous trick played on smb for a joke hoi polloi the masses the rabble hollow not soled with hole holster leather case for a pistol homiletics act of preaching hone stone used for sharpening tools hoodwink trick mislead hospitable liking to give hospitality hubris arrogant pride hush make or become silent husk worthless outside part of anything hypocrisy falsely making oneself appear to be good iconoclast person who attacks popular beliefs idiosyncrasy personal mannerism idolatry excessive admiration of idyll a carefree episode or experience ignoble dishonorable common undignified ignominious shameful dishonorable undignified disgraceful illicit unlawful forbidden imbroglio complicated and embarrassing situation immaculate pure faultless imminent likely to come or happen soon immutable that cannot be changed impair worsen diminish in value impassive unmoved feeling no sign of passion impecunious having little or no money impede hinder get in the way of impediment something that hinders (e.g. stammer) impending imminent being about to happen expected imperative urgent essential imperious commanding haughty arrogant impermeable that cannot be permeated imperturbable calm not capable of being excited impervious not allowing to pass through (of materials) imperviousness haughty arrogant commanding impetuous having sudden energy impulsive thrusting ahead forceful impiety lack of reverence or dutifulness implacable incapable of being placated unpleasable implicate show that smb has a share implicit implied though not plainly expressed implosion collapse bursting inward importune beg urgently solicit (of a prostitute) imprecation an invocation of evil a curse impromptu without preparation impudent rash indiscreet impugned challenged to be doubted impute to attribute to a cause or source ascribe inadvertent not paying proper attention inane silly senseless inasmuch since because incense make angry incessant often repeated continual inchoate not yet fully formed rudimentary elementary incipient beginning incise engrave make a cut in incite stir up rouse inclined directing the mind in a certain direction incongruous out of place not in harmony or agreement incorrigibility cannot be cured or corrected incredulous skeptical unwilling to believe inculcate fix firmly by repetition incumbents official duties incursion a raid a sudden attack indefatigability not easily exhaustible tirelessness indelible that cannot be rubbed out indigence poverty indigenous native indistinct not easily heard seen clearly marked indolence laziness indomitable not easily discouraged or subdued indulge gratify give way to satisfy allow oneself indulgent inclined to indulge ineffable to great to be described in words ineluctable certain inevitable inept unskillful said or done at the wrong time ineptitude quality of being unskillful inferno hell infuriate fill with fury or rage infuse put pour fill ingenuous naive young artless frank honest sincere ingest take in by swallowing inimical harmful or friendly inimitable defying imitation unmatchable innocuous causing no harm inscrutable incapable of being discovered or understood insensible unconscious unresponsive unaffected insinuate suggest unpleasantly make a way for something gently insipid without taste or flavor insouciant unconcerned carefree insularity narrow-mindedness isolated insurrection rising of people to open resistance to interdict prohibit forbid interim as an installment intersperse place here and there intransigence unwillingness to compromise stubbornness intractability intransigent uncompromising intrepid fearless brave undaunted introspection examining one's own thoughts and feelings inundate flood cover by overflowing inured accustomed to adapted invective abusive language curses inveigh to attack verbally denounce deprecate inveterate deep-rooted. long-established invincible too strong to be defeated involute complex irascible irritable easily angered irate angry ire anger irksome tiresome irresolute hesitating undecided irrevocable final and unalterable itinerate to travel from place to place to peregrinate jabber talk excitedly utter rapidly jagged notched, rough jibe gibe make fun of jocular meant as a joke judicious sound in judgment wise knit draw together unite firmly labyrinthine to entangle the state of affairs lachrymose causing tears tearful lackluster (of eyes) dull lament show feel great sorrow lassitude weariness tiredness latent present but not yet active developed or visible laudatory expressing or giving praise lavish giving or producing freely liberally or generously legacy something handed down from ancestors levee formal reception/embankment levity lack of seriousness libel statement that damages reputation liberality free giving generosity libertine immoral person lien legal claim until a debt on it is repaid limn paint portray limp lacking strength walking unevenly lionize treat as a famous person lithe bending twisting loll rest to sit or stand in a lazy way hang (dog's tongue) lope move along with long strides loquacious talkative garrulous lucubrate write in scholarly fashion luculent easily understood lucid clear lugubrious mournful excessively sad lull become quiet or less active lumber move in a clumsy/noisy way luminary star light-giving body lurk be out of view ready to attack lustrous being bright polished macabre gruesome suggesting death macerate make or become soft by soaking in water machination plot scheme (esp. evil) maladroit tactless clumsy malapropism misuse of a word (for one that resembles it) malevolence wishing to do evil malign injurious speak ill of smb tell lie malinger to fake illness or injury in order to shirk a duty malleable yielding easily shaped moldable adapting manacle chains for the hands or feet massacre cruel killing of a large number of people matriculation be admitted enter a university as a student maudlin sentimental in a silly or tearful way maul hurt by rough handling maverick rebel nonconformist mellifluous sweetly flowing mendacity dishonesty mendicant a beggar mercurial quick changeable in character fleeting meretricious attractive on the surface but of little value mesmerize hypnotize meticulous giving great attention to details mettle quality of endurance or courage mettlesome courageous high-spirited middling fairly good but not very good minatory menacing threatening mince pronounce or speak affectedly euphemize misanthrope person who hates mankind mischievous harmful causing mischief miser person who loves wealth and spends little misogynist one who hates women/females mite Avery small amount, portion, or particle moderation quality of being limited not extreme mollify make calmer or quieter molt moult lose hair feathers before new growing morbid diseased unhealthy (e.g.. about ideas) morose ill-tempered unsocial muffler cloth worn round the neck/silencer multifarious varied motley greatly diversified mundane worldly as opposed to spiritual commonplace everyday myriad very great number nadir lowest weakest point nascent coming into existence emerging nebulous cloud-like hazy vague indistinct negligent taking too little care neophyte person who has been converted to a belief nexus a connection tie or link nibble show some inclination to accept (an offer) noisome offensive disgusting (smell) nonchalant not having interest nonplused greatly surprised nostrum a quack remedy an untested cure noxious harmful nugatory trifling/worthless obdurate hardened and unrepenting stubborn inflexible obfuscate to darken make obscure muddle oblivious unaware having no memory obloquy abusively detractive language sharp criticism vituperation obsequious too eager to obey or serve obstreperous noisy loud obtain to be established accepted or customary obtrusive projecting prominent undesirably noticeable obtuse blunt/stupid obviate to make unnecessary get rid of occluded blocked up odious repulsive hateful odium contempt dislike aversion odor smell favor reputation officious too eager or ready to help offer advice ominous threatening onerous needing effort burdensome opaqueness dullness/not allowing light to pass through opprobrious showing scorn or reproach ossify to turn to bone to settle rigidly into an idea ostensible seeming appearing as such professed ostentation display to obtain admiration or envy ostracism shut out from society refuse to meet talk overhaul examine thoroughly to learn about the condition overweening presumptuously arrogant overbearing immoderate being a jerk paean song of praise or triumph palate roof of the mouth sense of taste palatial magnificent palliate lessen the severity of palpability can be felt touched understood palpitate tremble beat rapidly and irregularly panegyric formal praise eulogy paradigm a model example or pattern parenthesis sentence within another one something separated pariah an outcast a rejected and despised person parley negotiation, discussion between enemies parsimonious too economical miserly partisan one-sided committed to a party biased or prejudiced patron regular customer person who gives support paucity scarcity a lacking of peccadillo small sin small weakness in one's character pedantic bookish showing off learning pedestrian commonplace trite unremarkable pellucid transparent easy to understand penchant strong inclination a liking penitent feeling or showing regret penurious poor/stingy penury extreme poverty peregrination traveling about wandering peremptory urgent imperative unchallengeable ending debate perfidious treacherous faithless perfidy treachery breaking of faith perfunctory done as a duty without care perilous dangerous peripatetic wandering perish be destroyed decay perjury willful FALSE statement unlawful act permeate spread into every part of pernicious harmful injurious perpetrate be guilty commit (a crime) personable pleasing in appearance attractive perspicacity quick judging and understanding pertain belong as a part have reference pest destructive thing or a person who is nuisance petrified taken away power (to think feel act) petrify to make hard rocklike petrous like a rock hard stony petulant unreasonably impatient philistine a smug ignorant person one who lacks knowledge phlegmatic calm sluggish temperament unemotional picaresque involving clever rogues or adventurers pied of mixed colors pinch be too tight take between the thumb and finger pine waste away through sorrow or illness pious dutiful to parents devoted to religion piquant agreeably pungent stimulating pique hurt the pride or self-respect stir (curiosity) pitfall covered hole as a trap unsuspected danger pith essential part force soft liquid substance pivotal of great importance (others depend on it) placate soothe pacify calm plaintive mournful melancholy sorrowful plaque flat metal on a wall as a memorial platitude a trite or banal statement unoriginality plea request plead address a court of law as an advocate plethora glut pliant pliable easily bent shaped or twisted plod continue doing something without resting pluck pull the feathers off pick (e.g.. flowers) plumb get to the root of plummet fall plunge steeply plunge move quickly suddenly and with force poignant deeply moving keen poncho large piece of cloth ponderous heavy bulky dull portent omen marvelous threatening precarious uncertain risky dangerous precepts rules establishing standards of conduct preclude prevent make impossible precursory preliminary anticipating predilection special liking mental preference predominate have more power than others preen tidy/show self-satisfaction premature doing or happening something before the right time preponderance greatness in number strength weight presage warning sign presumption arrogance preternatural not normal or usual prevalent common prevaricate to equivocate to stray from the truth prim neat formal pristine primitive unspoiled pure as in earlier times unadulterated probity uprightness incorruptibility principle proclivity inclination procrastination keeping on putting off prodigal wasteful reckless with money prodigious enormous wonderful profane worldly having contempt for God profligacy shameless immorality profligate wasteful prodigal licentious extravagant profundity depth profuse abundant/lavish proliferate grow reproduce by rapid multification prolix tiring because too long prone prostrate inclined to (undesirable things) propagation increasing the number spreading extending propinquity nearness in time or place affinity of nature propitiatory conciliatory appeasing mitigating propitious auspicious presenting favorable circumstances prosaic everyday mundane commonplace trite pedestrian proscribe denounce as dangerous protracted prolonged provident frugal looking to the future provisional of the present time only provoke make angry vax prudence careful forethought prudish easily shocked excessively modest prune dried plum silly person pry get something inquire too curiously pucker wrinkle pugnacious fond of in the habit of fighting puissance strength punctilious precise paying attention to trivialities pundit pedant authority on a subject pungency sharpness stinging quality purvey provide supply pusillanimous cowardly craven putrefaction becoming rotten pyre large pile of wood for burning quack person dishonestly claiming to something quaff drink deeply quail lose courage turn frightened qualm feeling of doubt temporary feeling of sickness quandary state of doubt or perplexity quell suppress subdue quibble try to avoid by sophistication quiescence state of being passive/motionless quiescent at rest dormant torpid quirk habit or action peculiar to smb or something quixotic generous unselfish quotidian banal everyday rabble mob crowd the lower classes of populace raconteur person who tells anecdotes raffish low vulgar base tawdry ramify to be divided or subdivided to branch out rancorous feeling bitterness spitefulness rant use extravagant language rapacious greedy (esp for money) rarefy to make thin to make less dense to purify or refine rave act with excessive enthusiasm reactionary opposing progress rebuff snub recalcitrant disobedient recant take back as being FALSE give up recast cast or fashion anew recidivism relapse into antisocial or criminal behavior reciprocity granting of privileges in return for similar recitals a number of performance of music recluse person who lives alone and avoids people recompense make payment to reward punish reconcile settle a quarrel restore peace recondite little known abstruse recreancy cowardice a cowardly giving up recuperate become strong after illness loss exhaustion redeem get back by payment compensate redoubtable formidable causing fear refine make or become pure cultural refractory stubborn unmanageable untractable refulgent shining brilliant regale to delight or entertain to feast regicide crime of killing a king reiterate say or do again several times rejuvenation becoming young in nature or appearance relapse fall back again reminiscent viewing the past remonstrate to protest object render deliver provide represent renovate restore something to better condition renowned celebrated famous repast meal repel refuse to accept/cause dislike repine at be discontented with reproach scold upbraid reprobate person hardened in sin one devoid of decency repudiate disown refuse to accept or pay repulsive causing a feeling of disgust requite repay give in return rescind repeal/annul/cancel resigned unresisting submissive resilience quality of quickly recovering the original shape resort to frequently visit restive refusing to move reluctant to be controlled resuscitation coming back to consciousness retard check hinder reticent reserved untalkative silent taciturn retrospective Looking back on past revere have deep respect for reverent feeling or showing deep respect riddle puzzling person or thing rift split crack dissension rivet fix take up secure metal pin roll call calling of names rotund rich and deep plump and round ruffian violent cruel man rumple make rough sagacious having sound judgment perceptive wise like a sage salacious obscene salubrious healthful salutary remedial wholesome causing improvement sanctimony self-righteousness hypocritical with FALSE piety sanction approval (by authority) penalty sanguine cheerful confident optimistic sanity health of mind soundness of judgment sash long strip worn round the waist satiate satisfy fully saturnine gloomy dark sullen morose savant person of great learning savor taste flavor something sawdust tiny bits of wood scabbard sheath for the blade scent smell (especially pleasant) scorch become discolored/dry up/go at high speed scribble write hastily scurvy mean contemptible secular material (not spiritual) living outside monasteries sedulous persevering seminal like a seed constituting a source originative sententious short and pithy full of maxims/proverbs sequence succession connected line of sere make hard and without feeling sermon reproving a person for his faults serrated having a toothed edge serration having a toothed edge servile like a slave lacking independence sever break off severance severing shallow little depth not earnest shard piece of broken earthenware sheath cover for the blade of a weapon or a tool shrewd astute showing sound judgement shrill sharp piercing shun keep away from avoid shunt send from one track to another lay aside evade discussion sidestep step to one side simper (give a) silly/self-conscious smile sinuous winding undulating serpentine skiff small boat skit short piece of humorous writing slack sluggish dull not tight slake to assuage to satisfy allay slate king of blue-grey stone propose criticize sluggard lazy slow-moving person slur join sounds/words (indistinct) smolder burn slowly without flame snare trap snub treat with contempt soar rise fly high sober self-controlled sobriety quality or condition of being sober sodden soaked saturated soggy heavy with water solvent of the power of forming a solution somatic of the body soot black powder in smoke sophisticated complex subtle refined sophistry fallacious reasoning faulty logic sophomoric self-assured though immature affected bombastic overblown soporific producing sleep sordid wretched comfortless contemptible spear weapon with a metal point on a long shaft specious illogical of questionable truth or merit splenetic bad-tempered irritable splice join (two ends) sponge porous rubber for washing live at once expense spurious FALSE counterfeit spurn have nothing to do reject or refuse squalid foul filthy squander spend wastefully squat crouch/settle without permission stanch to stop the flow of a fluid steeply rising or falling sharply stentorian extremely loud and powerful stickler person who insists on importance of something stigma mark of shame or disgrace stigmatize describe smb scornfully sting something sharp stingy spending using unwillingly stint to be thrifty to set limits stipple paint with dots stipulate state or put forward as a necessary condition stolid showing no emotion impassive stray wander lose one's way streak long thin move very fast striated striped grooved or banded stride walk with long steps strut a supporting bar stygian hence dark gloomy stymie to hinder obstruct or block subdue overcome bring under control sublime extreme astounding submerge put under water liquid sink out of sight suborn induce by bribery or something to commit perjury subpoena written order requiring a person to appear in a low court substantiation giving facts to support (statement) subsume include under a rule succor assistance relief in time of distress suffice be enough suffocate cause or have difficulty in breathing sullied to be stained or discredited summarily briefly without delay sumptuous magnificent sundry various miscellaneous separate supercilious disdainful characterized by haughty scorn superfluous more then is needed or wanted superimpose put something on the top supersede take the place of supine lying on the back slow to act passive suppliant asking humbly beseeching supplicate make a humble petition to suppress prevent from being known put an end to surcharge additional load/charge surfeit satiate feed to fulness or to excess susceptibility sensitiveness swerve change direction suddenly sycophant person who flatter to the rich and powerful synopsis summary or outline taciturn untalkative silent tadpole form of a frog when it leaves the egg talon claw of a bird of prey tamp tap or drive down by repeated light blows tamper interfere with tangential suddenly changeable tarnished lost brightness tassel bunch of threads taunt contemptuous reproach hurtful remark taut tightly stretched tautology a repetition a redundancy tawdry cheap gaudy showy tacky teetotal oppose to alcohol telltale That gives warning or information temerity boldness brashness intrepidness temperance abstinence from alcohol self-control moderation temperate showing self-control tenacity firmness persistency adhesiveness tending to hang on tenuous insubstantial flimsy weak tepid lukewarm terse brief and to the point testiness witness/evidence thrift care economy thriving prosperous thwart obstruct/frustrate timid shy easily frightened timorous fearful timid afraid toady obsequious flatterer tonic something giving strength or energy topple be unsteady and overturn torment severe pain or suffering torpid sleeping sluggish lethargic dormant torque twisting force causing rotation tortuous devious/not straightforward tout person who worries others to buy something to use his service tractable easily controlled or guided transgress break go beyond (a limit) transient temporary fleeting transitory brief travesty parody/imitation trenchant forceful effective vigorous extremely perceptive incisive trepidation alarm excited state of mind trickle flow in drops trifling unimportant trite not new truce (agreement) stop of fighting for a time truculence aggressiveness ferocity trudge walk heavily turbid muddy having the sediment stirred up turbulence being uncontrolled violent turgid excessively ornate swollen or bloated turmoil trouble disturbance turpitude wickedness shamefulness turquoise greenish-blue precious stone tyro tiro beginner ubiquitous present everywhere ulterior situated beyond umbrage offense resentment uncouth rough awkward underbid make a lower bid then smb else undermine weaken gradually at the base make something under undulate to move in wavelike fashion fluctuate unearth discover and bring to light unencumbered easy-going trifle unfeigned not pretended sincere abase v. To lower in position, estimation, or the like; degrade. abbess n. The lady superior of a nunnery. abbey n. The group of buildings which collectively form the dwelling-place of a society of monks or nuns. abbot n. The superior of a community of monks. abdicate v. To give up (royal power or the like). abdomen n. In mammals, the visceral cavity between the diaphragm and the pelvic floor; the belly. abdominal n. Of, pertaining to, or situated on the abdomen. abduction n. A carrying away of a person against his will, or illegally. abed adv. In bed; on a bed. aberration n. Deviation from a right, customary, or prescribed course. abet v. To aid, promote, or encourage the commission of (an offense). abeyance n. A state of suspension or temporary inaction. abhorrence n. The act of detesting extremely. abhorrent adj. Very repugnant; hateful. abidance n. An abiding. abject adj. Sunk to a low condition. abjure v. To recant, renounce, repudiate under oath. able-bodied adj. Competent for physical service. ablution n. A washing or cleansing, especially of the body. abnegate v. To renounce (a right or privilege). abnormal adj. Not conformed to the ordinary rule or standard. abominable adj. Very hateful. abominate v. To hate violently. abomination n. A very detestable act or practice. aboriginal adj. Primitive; unsophisticated. aborigines n. The original of earliest known inhabitants of a country. aboveboard adv. & adj. Without concealment, fraud, or trickery. abrade v. To wear away the surface or some part of by friction. abrasion n. That which is rubbed off. abridge v. To make shorter in words, keeping the essential features, leaning out minor particles. abridgment n. A condensed form as of a book or play. abrogate v. To abolish, repeal. abrupt adj. Beginning, ending, or changing suddenly or with a break. abscess n. A Collection of pus in a cavity formed within some tissue of the body. abscission n. The act of cutting off, as in a surgical operation. abscond v. To depart suddenly and secretly, as for the purpose of escaping arrest. absence n. The fact of not being present or available. absent-minded adj. Lacking in attention to immediate surroundings or business. absolution n. Forgiveness, or passing over of offenses. absolve v. To free from sin or its penalties. absorb v. To drink in or suck up, as a sponge absorbs water. absorption n. The act or process of absorbing. abstain v. To keep oneself back (from doing or using something). abstemious adj. Characterized by self denial or abstinence, as in the use of drink, food. abstinence n. Self denial. abstruse adj. Dealing with matters difficult to be understood. absurd adj. Inconsistent with reason or common sense. abundant adj. Plentiful. abusive adj. Employing harsh words or ill treatment. abut v. To touch at the end or boundary line. abyss n. Bottomless gulf. academic adj. Of or pertaining to an academy, college, or university. academician n. A member of an academy of literature, art, or science. academy n. Any institution where the higher branches of learning are taught. accede v. To agree. accelerate v. To move faster. accept v. To take when offered. access n. A way of approach or entrance; passage. accessible adj. Approachable. accession n. Induction or elevation, as to dignity, office, or government. accessory n. A person or thing that aids the principal agent. acclaim v. To utter with a shout. accommodate v. To furnish something as a kindness or favor. accompaniment n. A subordinate part or parts, enriching or supporting the leading part. accompanist n. One who or that which accompanies. accompany v. To go with, or be associated with, as a companion. accomplice n. An associate in wrong-doing. accomplish v. To bring to pass. accordion n. A portable free-reed musical instrument. accost v. To speak to. account n. A record or statement of receipts and expenditures, or of business transactions. accouter v. To dress. accredit v. To give credit or authority to. accumulate v. To become greater in quantity or number. accuracy n. Exactness. accurate adj. Conforming exactly to truth or to a standard. accursed adj. Doomed to evil, misery, or misfortune. accusation n. A charge of crime, misdemeanor, or error. accusatory adj. Of, pertaining to, or involving an accusation. accuse v. To charge with wrong doing, misconduct, or error. accustom v. To make familiar by use. acerbity n. Sourness, with bitterness and astringency. acetate n. A salt of acetic acid. acetic adj. Of, pertaining to, or of the nature of vinegar. ache v. To be in pain or distress. Achillean adj. Invulnerable. achromatic adj. Colorless, acid n. A sour substance. acidify v. To change into acid. acknowledge v. To recognize; to admit the genuineness or validity of. acknowledgment n. Recognition. acme n. The highest point, or summit. acoustic adj. Pertaining to the act or sense of hearing. acquaint v. To make familiar or conversant. acquiesce v. To comply; submit. acquiescence n. Passive consent. acquire v. To get as one's own. acquisition n. Anything gained, or made one's own, usually by effort or labor. acquit v. To free or clear, as from accusation. acquittal n. A discharge from accusation by judicial action. acquittance n. Release or discharge from indebtedness, obligation, or responsibility. acreage n. Quantity or extent of land, especially of cultivated land. acrid adj. Harshly pungent or bitter. acrimonious adj. Full of bitterness. acrimony n. Sharpness or bitterness of speech or temper. actionable adj. Affording cause for instituting an action, as trespass, slanderous words. actuality n. Any reality. actuary n. An officer, as of an insurance company, who calculates and states the risks and premiums. actuate v. To move or incite to action. acumen n. Quickness of intellectual insight, or discernment; keenness of discrimination. acute adj. Having fine and penetrating discernment. adamant n. Any substance of exceeding hardness or impenetrability. addendum n. Something added, or to be added. addle v. To make inefficient or worthless; muddle. adduce v. To bring forward or name for consideration. adhere v. To stick fast or together. adherence n. Attachment. adherent adj. Clinging or sticking fast. adhesion n. The state of being attached or joined. adieu inter. Good-by; farewell. adjacency n. The state of being adjacent. adjacent n. That which is near or bordering upon. adjudge v. To award or bestow by formal decision. adjunct n. Something joined to or connected with another thing, but holding a subordinate place. adjuration n. A vehement appeal. adjutant adj. Auxiliary. administrator n. One who manages affairs of any kind. admissible adj. Having the right or privilege of entry. admittance n. Entrance, or the right or permission to enter. admonish v. To warn of a fault. admonition n. Gentle reproof. ado n. unnecessary activity or ceremony. adoration n. Profound devotion. adroit adj. Having skill in the use of the bodily or mental powers. adulterant n. An adulterating substance. adulterate v. To make impure by the admixture of other or baser ingredients. adumbrate v. To represent beforehand in outline or by emblem. advent n. The coming or arrival, as of any important change, event, state, or personage. adverse adj. Opposing or opposed. adversity n. Misfortune. advert v. To refer incidentally. advertiser n. One who advertises, especially in newspapers. advisory adj. Not mandatory. advocacy n. The act of pleading a cause. advocate n. One who pleads the cause of another, as in a legal or ecclesiastical court. aerial adj. Of, pertaining to, or like the air. aeronaut n. One who navigates the air, a balloonist. aeronautics n. the art or practice of flying aircraft aerostat n. A balloon or other apparatus floating in or sustained by the air. aerostatics n. The branch of pneumatics that treats of the equilibrium, pressure, and mechanical properties. affable adj. Easy to approach. affect v. To act upon affectation n. A studied or ostentatious pretense or attempt. affiliate n. Some auxiliary person or thing. affirmative adj. Answering yes; to a question at issue. affix v. To fasten. affluence n. A profuse or abundant supply of riches. affront n. An open insult or indignity. afire adv. & adj. On fire, literally or figuratively. afoot adv. In progress. aforesaid adj. Said in a preceding part or before. afresh adv. Once more, after rest or interval. afterthought n. A thought that comes later than its appropriate or expected time. agglomerate v. To pile or heap together. aggrandize v. To cause to appear greatly. aggravate v. To make heavier, worse, or more burdensome. aggravation n. The fact of being made heavier or more heinous, as a crime , offense, misfortune, etc. aggregate n. The entire number, sum, mass, or quantity of something. aggress v. To make the first attack. aggression n. An unprovoked attack. aggrieve v. To give grief or sorrow to. aghast adj. Struck with terror and amazement. agile adj. Able to move or act quickly, physically, or mentally. agitate v. To move or excite (the feelings or thoughts). agrarian adj. Pertaining to land, especially agricultural land. aide-de-camp n. An officer who receives and transmits the orders of the general. ailment n. Slight sickness. airy adj. Delicate, ethereal. akin adj. Of similar nature or qualities. alabaster n. A white or delicately tinted fine-grained gypsum. alacrity n. Cheerful willingness. albeit conj. Even though. albino n. A person with milky white skin and hair, and eyes with bright red pupil and usually pink iris. album n. A book whose leaves are so made to form paper frames for holding photographs or the like. alchemy n. Chemistry of the middle ages, characterized by the pursuit of changing base metals to gold. alcohol n. A volatile, inflammable, colorless liquid of a penetrating odor and burning taste. alcoholism n. A condition resulting from the inordinate or persistent use of alcoholic beverages. alcove n. A covered recess connected with or at the side of a larger room. alder n. Any shrub or small tree of the genus Alumnus, of the oak family. alderman n. A member of a municipal legislative body, who usually exercises also certain judicial functions. aldermanship n. The dignity, condition, office, or term of office of an alderman. alias n. An assumed name. alien n. One who owes allegiance to a foreign government. alienable adj. Capable of being aliened or alienated, as lands. alienate v. To cause to turn away. alienation n. Estrangement. aliment n. That which nourishes. alkali n. Anything that will neutralize an acid, as lime, magnesia, etc. allay v. To calm the violence or reduce the intensity of; mitigate. allege v. To assert to be true, especially in a formal manner, as in court. allegory n. The setting forth of a subject under the guise of another subject of aptly suggestive likeness. alleviate v. To make less burdensome or less hard to bear. alley n. A narrow street, garden path, walk, or the like. alliance n. Any combination or union for some common purpose. allot v. To assign a definite thing or part to a certain person. allotment n. Portion. allude v. To refer incidentally, or by suggestion. allusion n. An indirect and incidental reference to something without definite mention of it. alluvion n. Flood. ally n. A person or thing connected with another, usually in some relation of helpfulness. almanac n. A series of tables giving the days of the week together with certain astronomical information. aloof adv. Not in sympathy with or desiring to associate with others. altar n. Any raised place or structure on which sacrifices may be offered or incense burned. alter v. To make change in. alteration n. Change or modification. altercate v. To contend angrily or zealously in words. alternate n. One chosen to act in place of another, in case of the absence or incapacity of that other. alternative n. Something that may or must exist, be taken or chosen, or done instead of something else. altitude n. Vertical distance or elevation above any point or base-level, as the sea. alto n. The lowest or deepest female voice or part. altruism n. Benevolence to others on subordination to self-interest. altruist n. One who advocates or practices altruism. amalgam n. An alloy or union of mercury with another metal. amalgamate v. To mix or blend together in a homogeneous body. amateur adj. Practicing an art or occupation for the love of it, but not as a profession. amatory adj. Designed to excite love. ambidextrous adj. Having the ability of using both hands with equal skill or ease. ambiguous adj. Having a double meaning. ambitious adj. Eagerly desirous and aspiring. ambrosial adj. Divinely sweet, fragrant, or delicious. ambulance n. A vehicle fitted for conveying the sick and wounded. ambulate v. To walk about ambush n. The act or state of lying concealed for the purpose of surprising or attacking the enemy. ameliorate v. To relieve, as from pain or hardship amenable adj. Willing and ready to submit. Americanism n. A peculiar sense in which an English word or phrase is used in the United States. amicable adj. Done in a friendly spirit. amity n. Friendship. amorous adj. Having a propensity for falling in love. amorphous adj. Without determinate shape. amour n. A love-affair, especially one of an illicit nature. ampere n. The practical unit of electric-current strength. ampersand n. The character &; and. amphibious adj. Living both on land and in water. amphitheater n. An edifice of elliptical shape, constructed about a central open space or arena. amplitude n. Largeness. amply adv. Sufficiently. amputate v. To remove by cutting, as a limb or some portion of the body. amusement n. Diversion. anachronism n. Anything occurring or existing out of its proper time. anagram n. The letters of a word or phrase so transposed as to make a different word or phrase. analogous adj. Corresponding (to some other) in certain respects, as in form, proportion, relations. analogy n. Reasoning in which from certain and known relations or resemblance others are formed. analyst n. One who analyzes or makes use of the analytical method. analyze v. To examine minutely or critically. anarchy n. Absence or utter disregard of government. anathema n. Anything forbidden, as by social usage. anatomy n. That branch of morphology which treats of the structure of organisms. ancestry n. One's ancestors collectively. anecdote n. A brief account of some interesting event or incident. anemia n. Deficiency of blood or red corpuscles. anemic adj. Affected with anemia. anemometer n. An instrument for measuring the force or velocity of wind. anesthetic adj. Pertaining to or producing loss of sensation. anew adv. Once more. angelic adj. Saintly. Anglophobia n. Hatred or dread of England or of what is English. Anglo-Saxon n. The entire English race wherever found, as in Europe, the United States, or India. angular adj. Sharp-cornered. anhydrous adj. Withered. animadversion n. The utterance of criticism or censure. animadvert v. To pass criticism or censure. animalcule n. An animal of microscopic smallness. animate v. To make alive. animosity n. Hatred. annalist n. Historian. annals n. A record of events in their chronological order, year by year. annex v. To add or affix at the end. annihilate v. To destroy absolutely. annotate v. To make explanatory or critical notes on or upon. annual adj. Occurring every year. annuity n. An annual allowance, payment, or income. annunciation n. Proclamation. anode n. The point where or path by which a voltaic current enters an electrolyte or the like. anonymous adj. Of unknown authorship. antagonism n. Mutual opposition or resistance of counteracting forces, principles, or persons. Antarctic adj. Pertaining to the south pole or the regions near it. ante v. In the game of poker, to put up a stake before the cards are dealt. antecede v. To precede. antecedent n. One who or that which precedes or goes before, as in time, place, rank, order, or causality. antechamber n. A waiting room for those who seek audience. antedate v. To assign or affix a date to earlier than the actual one. antediluvian adj. Of or pertaining to the times, things, events before the great flood in the days of Noah. antemeridian adj. Before noon. antemundane adj. Pertaining to time before the world's creation. antenatal adj. Occurring or existing before birth. anterior adj. Prior. anteroom n. A room situated before and opening into another, usually larger. anthology n. A collection of extracts from the writings of various authors. anthracite n. Hard coal. anthropology n. The science of man in general. anthropomorphous adj. Having or resembling human form. antic n. A grotesque, ludicrous, or fantastic action. Antichrist n. Any opponent or enemy of Christ, whether a person or a power. anticlimax n. A gradual or sudden decrease in the importance or impressiveness of what is said. anticyclone n. An atmospheric condition of high central pressure, with currents flowing outward. antidote n. Anything that will counteract or remove the effects of poison, disease, or the like. antilogy n. Inconsistency or contradiction in terms or ideas. antipathize v. To show or feel a feeling of antagonism, aversion, or dislike. antiphon n. A response or alteration of responses, generally musical. antiphony n. An anthem or other composition sung responsively. antipodes n. A place or region on the opposite side of the earth. antiquary n. One who collects and examines old things, as coins, books, medals, weapons, etc. antiquate v. To make old or out of date. antique adj. Pertaining to ancient times. antiseptic n. Anything that destroys or restrains the growth of putrefactive micro-organisms. antislavery adj. Opposed to human slavery. antispasmodic adj. Tending to prevent or relieve non-inflammatory spasmodic affections. antistrophe n. The inversion of terms in successive classes, as in "the home of joy and the joy of home". antitoxin n. A substance which neutralizes the poisonous products of micro-organisms. antonym n. A word directly opposed to another in meaning. anxious adj. Distressed in mind respecting some uncertain matter. apathy n. Insensibility to emotion or passionate feeling. aperture n. Hole. apex n. The highest point, as of a mountain. aphorism n. Proverb. apiary n. A place where bees are kept. apogee n. The climax. apology n. A disclaimer of intentional error or offense. apostasy n. A total departure from one's faith or religion. apostate adj. False. apostle n. Any messenger commissioned by or as by divine authority. apothecary n. One who keeps drugs for sale and puts up prescriptions. apotheosis n. Deification. appall v. To fill with dismay or horror. apparent adj. Easily understood. apparition n. Ghost. appease v. To soothe by quieting anger or indignation. appellate adj. Capable of being appealed to. appellation n. The name or title by which a particular person, class, or thing is called. append v. To add or attach, as something accessory, subordinate, or supplementary. appertain v. To belong, as by right, fitness, association, classification, possession, or natural relation. apposite adj. Appropriate. apposition n. The act of placing side by side, together, or in contact. appraise v. To estimate the money value of. appreciable adj. Capable of being discerned by the senses or intellect. apprehend v. To make a prisoner of (a person) in the name of the law. apprehensible adj. Capable of being conceived. approbation n. Sanction. appropriate adj. Suitable for the purpose and circumstances. aqueduct n. A water-conduit, particularly one for supplying a community from a distance. aqueous adj. Of, pertaining to, or containing water. arbiter n. One chosen or appointed, by mutual consent of parties in dispute, to decide matters. arbitrary adj. Fixed or done capriciously. arbitrate v. To act or give judgment as umpire. arbor n. A tree. arboreal adj. Of or pertaining to a tree or trees. arborescent adj. Having the nature of a tree. arboretum n. A botanical garden or place devoted to the cultivation of trees or shrubs. arboriculture n. The cultivation of trees or shrubs. arcade n. A vaulted passageway or street; a roofed passageway having shops, etc., opening from it. archaic adj. Antiquated archaism n. Obsolescence. archangel n. An angel of high rank. archbishop n. The chief of the bishops of an ecclesiastical province in the Greek, Roman, and Anglican church. archdeacon n. A high official administrator of the affairs of a diocese. archaeology n. The branch of anthropology concerned with the systematic investigation of the relics of man. archetype n. A prototype. archipelago n. Any large body of water studded with islands, or the islands collectively themselves. ardent adj. Burning with passion. ardor n. Intensity of passion or affection. arid adj. Very dry. aristocracy n. A hereditary nobility aristocrat n. A hereditary noble or one nearly connected with nobility. armada n. A fleet of war-vessels. armful n. As much as can be held in the arm or arms. armory n. An arsenal. aroma n. An agreeable odor. arraign v. To call into court, as a person indicted for crime, and demand whether he pleads guilty or not. arrange v. To put in definite or proper order. arrangement n. The act of putting in proper order, or the state of being put in order. arrant adj. Notoriously bad. arrear n. Something overdue and unpaid. arrival n. A coming to stopping-place or destination. arrogant adj. Unduly or excessively proud, as of wealth, station, learning, etc. arrogate v. To take, demand, or claim, especially presumptuously or without reasons or grounds. Artesian well n. A very deep bored well. water rises due to underground pressure artful adj. Characterized by craft or cunning. Arthurian adj. Pertaining to King Arthur, the real or legendary hero of British poetic story. artifice n. Trickery. artless adj. Ingenuous. ascendant adj. Dominant. ascension n. The act of rising. ascent n. A rising, soaring, or climbing. ascetic adj. Given to severe self-denial and practicing excessive abstinence and devotion. ascribe v. To assign as a quality or attribute. asexual adj. Having no distinct sexual organs. ashen adj. Pale. askance adv. With a side or indirect glance or meaning. asperity n. Harshness or roughness of temper. aspirant n. One who seeks earnestly, as for advancement, honors, place. aspiration n. An earnest wish for that which is above one's present reach. aspire v. To have an earnest desire, wish, or longing, as for something high and good, not yet attained. assailant n. One who attacks. assassin n. One who kills, or tries to kill, treacherously or secretly. assassinate v. To kill, as by surprise or secret assault, especially the killing of some eminent person. assassination n. Murderer, as by secret assault or treachery. assay n. The chemical analysis or testing of an alloy ore. assent v. To express agreement with a statement or matter of opinion. assess v. To determine the amount of (a tax or other sum to be paid). assessor n. An officer whose duty it is to assess taxes. assets n. pl. Property in general, regarded as applicable to the payment of debts. assiduous adj. Diligent. assignee n. One who is appointed to act for another in the management of certain property and interests. assimilate v. To adapt. assonance n. Resemblance or correspondence in sound. assonant adj. Having resemblance of sound. assonate v. To accord in sound, especially vowel sound. assuage v. To cause to be less harsh, violent, or severe, as excitement, appetite, pain, or disease. astringent adj. Harsh in disposition or character. astute adj. Keen in discernment. atheism n. The denial of the existence of God. athirst adj. Wanting water. athwart adv. From side to side. atomizer n. An apparatus for reducing a liquid to a fine spray, as for disinfection, inhalation, etc. atone v. To make amends for. atonement n. Amends, reparation, or expiation made from wrong or injury. atrocious adj. Outrageously or wantonly wicked, criminal, vile, or cruel. atrocity n. Great cruelty or reckless wickedness. attache n. A subordinate member of a diplomatic embassy. attest v. To certify as accurate, genuine, or true. attorney-general n. The chief law-officer of a government. auburn adj. Reddish-brown, said usually of the hair. audacious adj. Fearless. audible adj. Loud enough to be heard. audition n. The act or sensation of hearing. auditory adj. Of or pertaining to hearing or the organs or sense of hearing. augment v. To make bigger. augur v. To predict. Augustinian adj. Pertaining to St. Augustine, his doctrines, or the religious orders called after him. aura n. Pervasive psychic influence supposed to emanate from persons aural adj. Of or pertaining to the ear. auricle n. One of the two chambers of the heart which receives the blood from the veins. auricular adj. Of or pertaining to the ear, its auricle, or the sense of hearing. auriferous adj. Containing gold. aurora n. A luminous phenomenon in the upper regions of the atmosphere. auspice n. favoring, protecting, or propitious influence or guidance. austere adj. Severely simple; unadorned. autarchy n. Unrestricted power. authentic adj. Of undisputed origin. authenticity n. The state or quality of being genuine, or of the origin and authorship claimed. autobiography n. The story of one's life written by himself. autocracy n. Absolute government. autocrat n. Any one who claims or wields unrestricted or undisputed authority or influence. automaton n. Any living being whose actions are or appear to be involuntary or mechanical. autonomous adj. Self-governing. autonomy n. Self-government. autopsy n. The examination of a dead body by dissection to ascertain the cause of death. autumnal adj. Of or pertaining to autumn. auxiliary n. One who or that which aids or helps, especially when regarded as subsidiary or accessory. avalanche n. The fall or sliding of a mass of snow or ice down a mountain-slope, often bearing with it rock. avarice n. Passion for getting and keeping riches. aver v. To assert as a fact. averse adj. Reluctant. aversion n. A mental condition of fixed opposition to or dislike of some particular thing. avert v. To turn away or aside. aviary n. A spacious cage or enclosure in which live birds are kept. avidity n. Greediness. avocation n. Diversion. avow v. To declare openly. awaken v. To arouse, as emotion, interest, or the like. awry adv. & adj. Out of the proper form, direction, or position. aye adv. An expression of assent. azalea n. A flowering shrub. azure n. The color of the sky. Baconian adj. Of or pertaining to Lord Bacon or his system of philosophy. bacterium n. A microbe. badger v. To pester. baffle v. To foil or frustrate. bailiff n. An officer of court having custody of prisoners under arraignment. baize n. A single-colored napped woolen fabric used for table-covers, curtains, etc. bale n. A large package prepared for transportation or storage. baleful adj. Malignant. ballad n. Any popular narrative poem, often with epic subject and usually in lyric form. balsam n. A medical preparation, aromatic and oily, used for healing. banal adj. Commonplace. barcarole n. A boat-song of Venetian gondoliers. barograph n. An instrument that registers graphically and continuously the atmospheric pressure. barometer n. An instrument for indicating the atmospheric pressure per unit of surface. barring prep. Apart from. baritone adj. Having a register higher than bass and lower than tenor. bask v. To make warm by genial heat. bass adj. Low in tone or compass. baste v. To cover with melted fat, gravy, while cooking. baton n. An official staff borne either as a weapon or as an emblem of authority or privilege. battalion n. A body of infantry composed of two or more companies, forming a part of a regiment. batten n. A narrow strip of wood. batter n. A thick liquid mixture of two or more materials beaten together, to be used in cookery. bauble n. A trinket. bawl v. To proclaim by outcry. beatify v. To make supremely happy. beatitude n. Any state of great happiness. beau n. An escort or lover. becalm v. To make quiet.