ABANDON: To give up completely -abandonedthe sinking ship.Synonyms: relinquish, forgo, forsakeABASH: To lose self-confidence; to confuse, put to shame abashed beforethe assembled dignitaries.Synonyms: fluster, disconcert, discomfit, discomposeAntonym: (adj.) self-possessedABDICATE: To give up claimto - abdicated thethroneSynonyms: renounce, abandon, relinquishABET: To encourage -or support - treacherouslyabettedthe enemy.Synonyms: spur, inciteAntonym: deterABRIDGE: To shorten -abridgedhis lengthy speech.Synonyms: curtail, diminish,retrenchAnthonyms: protract, elongate,amplifyABROGATE: To abolish or render void - a treatyabrogatedby mutual consent.Synonyms: annul, nullify, rescind, voidABSTEMIOUS: Moderate in the use of food or drink -abstemiousin his habits.Synonym: temperateACADEMIC: Pertaining to school; theoretical academic interests; anacademicdiscussion,with no practical implications.Synonym: scholasticACCEDE: Toagree to-accedeto a request.Synonym: assentAntonym: demurACCELERATE: - To quicken, speed tip - took anacceleratedcourse in order to graduate early.Synonym: expedite (adj. expeditious)Antonym: retardACCOLADE: An award or salute - a tremendousaccoladefor a returning hero.Synonyms: tribute, ovationACCORD: Agreement or harmony - in fullaccordwith his view.Synonyms: concord, concurrenceAntonyms:dissension, discordACRIMONIOUS: Sharp or harsh in language or temper - stung by theacrimoniousremark.Synonyms:caustic, acerb, pungent, tart, mordant, acrid; (noun) asperityAntonyms:suave, affableACUMEN: Keenness of mind or insight - showing exceptional businessacumen.Synonyms:perspicacity, discernment, perceptionAntonym:obtusenessADMONISH(noun:ADMONITION): To warn or find fault gently -admonishingthe unruly child.Synonyms:chide, caution, reprimand, reprehend, reproachADVERSARY: (adj.: ADVERSE): An opponent - hisadversaryin a bitter debate.Synonym:antagonistAntonyms:cohort, confederate, ally, accompliceADVERSITY: Misfortune - calm in the face ofadversity.Synonyms:affliction, mischance, reversesAESTHETIC: Pertaining to the beautiful - interested inaestheticvalues rather than in purely practical affairs.AFFABLE: Sociable, courteous, and agreeable in manner a much admired,affablegentleman.Synonyms: civil, complaisant, benign, gracious, genial, urbane, cordialAntonyms:curt, brusque, rude, boorish, surlyAFFLUENT: Prosperous, flourishing; copious - a large bequest from anaffluentgrandfather.Synonyms:opulent, profuseAntonyms:destitute, impecuniousAGGRESSIVE(noun: AGGRESSION. an unprovoked attack): self-assertive; attacking, offensive - annoyed people by hisaggressiveattitude;Synonyms:bumptious, officious, obtrusiveAntonyms:meek, humble, retiring, diffidentALACRITY: Eagerness; cheerful promptness - responded to the flattering offer withalacrity.Synonyms:celerity, briskness, energy, animationAntonyms:apathy, nonchalance, sluggishness, lethargy,phlegmatismALIENATE: To estrange -altenatedbyhis gruff manner.ALLAY: To calm; to lessen in severity - at ease now that his fears have beenallayed.Synonyms:appease, alleviate, pacify, assuage, abate, mitigate, propitiate, mollify, placateAntonyms:intensify, aggravateALLUDE(noun: ALLUSION): To refer to indirectly - alluded quite subtly to his friend's misfortune.Synonyms:insinuate, intimate, implyAntonyms:refer, citeALLURE: To tempt by flattery or an attractive offer -alluredby the prospect of a new job.Synonyms:lure, decoy, inveigle, entice, seduce, wheedle, beguile, cajoleAntonym:repelAMBIGUOUS: Uncertain, vague, capable of being inter- in more than one way - puzzled by theambiguousstatement.Synonyms:hazy, obscure, equivocal, dubious, nebulousAntonyms:explicit, unquestionableAMENABLE: Obedient; willing to submit -amenableto the suggestion.Synonyms:tractable, docile, responsiveAntonyms:intractable, refractory, recalcitrantAMIABLE: Good-natured; friendly - attracted friends by hisamiabledisposition.Synonym:complaisantANACHRONISM: A thing placed or occurring out of its normal time - A machine gun at the Battle of Yorktown would be ananachronism.ANALOGY(adj.: ANALOGOUS): A relation between two things shown in the resemblance not of the things themselves but of their characteristics- He indicated points ofanalogybetween the two situations.Synonyms:correspondence, affinityAntonym: anomaly (a deviation from the general rule)ANARCHY: State of confusion or lawlessness - a country brought to utteranarchyby civil war.Synonyms: chaos, pandemoniumANIMUS: A feeling of hatred-felt noanimus, even against the enemy.Synonyms: enmity, rancor, malevolence, animosityAntonym: amityANNALS: Historical records - in theannalsof literature.ANONYMOUS: Of unknown authorship-ananonymouspublication.ANTHOLOGY: A collection of choice literary works ananthologyof modern poetry.ANTITHESIS(adj.: ANTITHETICAL): Contrast; the direct opposite - His selfish attitude seemed to me theantithesiso patriotism.APATHY(adj.: APATHETIC): Lack of feeling, emotion, or interest - attributed his failure toapathy, rather than lack of ability.Synonyms: torpor, lethargy, sluggishness, listlessness, languor, lassitude, dispassion; (verb) languishAntonyms:zeal, animationAPPREHENSIVE(verb: APPREHEND): Fearful - Being unprepared, John isapprehensiveof the examination.APPRISE: To inform-apprisedhislieutenants of the new situation.APPROBATION: Approval; praise -a plan that met with heartyapprobation.Synonyms:sanction, commendationSynonyms:sanction, commendationAntonym:disapprobationAPT(noun: APTITUDE, APTNESS):(1) Likely; inclined or disposed -aptto succeed. Synonym: prone(2) Fit, suitable - anaptremark.Synonyms: appropriate, felicitous(3) Skillful, expert -aptat woodcarving.Synonyms: deft,dextrous, adept. Antonym: ineptARBITER: A person who has authority to decide matters in dispute - a fair decision rendered by thearbiter.Synonyms: mediator, arbitratorARCHETYPE: An original pattern - copies reproduced from thearchetype.Synonym: prototypeAntonyms: Stereotype, facsimile, replicaARID: Dry; barren - theariddesert land.Synonyms.jejune, parchedAntonyms: arable, fertileARISTOCRACY: Government by the best people;aprivileged class -special privileges enjoyed by thearistocracy.Synonym: oligarchyAntonym: democracyARMISTICE: A temporary suspension of hostilities. Thearmisticehalted the war.Synonym: truceARTFUL: Sly; crafty - attained his mean objective byartfulmeasures.Synonyms: cunning, wily, adroit, ingenious, guilefulAntonyms: guileless, ingenuous,artlessARTICULATE(verb): To speak clearly or distinctly -articulatedslowly so that he could not be misunderstood.(adj.): Capable of speech; distinct, clear anarticulateman, always ready to give his views.ASCETIC: Rigorously self-denying - pursued theasceticlife of a monk.Synonyms: austere, abstinentAntonyms: wanton, self-indulgentASKANCE: With distrust - lookedaskanceat the forged signature.ASSEVERATE: To declare positively; to confirm -asseveratedhis views with conviction.Synonyms:assert, avouch, aver, avow, allegeAntonyms:gainsay, controvert, recant, rescind, abjure, disavowASSIDUOUS: Industrious - anassiduousworker, toiling long hours.Synonyms:sedulous, attentive, diligent, indefatigableAntonyms:indolent, slothfulASYLUM: A place offering shelter and retreat -foundasylumfrom persecution.Synonyms:sanctuary, refugeATHEIST: One who denies that God exists - Theatheistdeclared, "There is no God."Synonyms:infidel, agnostic, skepticATTRIBUTE(verb): Assign -attributedhis success to bard work.Synonym: ascribe(noun): An inherent quality -Generosity was his outstandingattribute.AUGMENT: To increase or enlarge - an armyaugmentedby numerous enlistments.Synonyms: enhance, amplify - Antonyms: abate, curtailAUSPICIOUS: Indicating a happy outcome - The prospect for this project appearsauspicious.Synonyms:propitious, fortunateAntonyms:ominous, forebodingAUTHENTIC: Genuine -proved to be anauthenticdocument.Synonyms:veritable, bona fideAntonyms;apocryphal, counterfeit, spurious, bogusAUTOCRATIC: Despotic - feared by the masses as anautocraticruler.Synonym:tyrannicalAntonym:benevolentAVARICE: Excessive greed - a fortune accumulated byavariceand miserliness.Synonyms:covetousness, cupidity, avidityAntonym:magnanimityAWRY: Unsymmetrical; not straight - the picture, hangingawryon the wall.Synonym:askewBANAL: Lacking in freshness, originality, or vigor-bored by hisbanalremarks.Synonyms:commonplace, hackneyed, prosaic, trite, stereotyped, vapidAntonyms:racy, original, vividBANEFUL(noun: BANE: poison; source of harm): Destructive, poisonous - abanefuleffect, causing serious injury.Synonyms: deleterious, pernicious, virulent, noxious, toxicAntonym:beneficentBANTER: Good-natured teasing or ridicule-The two wits I exchangedbanter, to the amusement of the audience.Synonyms:raillery, chaffBATON: A stick or staff - The conductor wielded his baton gracefully.BELIE: To give a false idea of - His gracious mannerbelledhis.evilpurpose.Synonym:misrepresentBELLICOSE;Inclinedto quarrel; warlike - Hisbellicoseattitude often got John into fights.Synonyms: pugnacious, contentious,disputatiousAntonyms: pacific, conciliatoryBELLIGERENT: Engaged in war - twobelligerentnations warring fiercely.BENEVOLENT: Kindly; charitable - like abenevolentmonarch, bestowing many favors.Synonyms: benign, benignant, gracious, magnanimousAntonyms: malevolent, malignantBEREAVE: To deprive or leave desolate by loss - a widow justbereavedof her husband.BESMIRCH: To soil or dirty -besmirchedhis opponent's good name with vile epithets.Synonyms: stilly, defile, smirch, bespatterBIASED: Prejudiced - misled by abiasedpoint of view.Synonyms:bigoted, arbitrary, partial, partisanAntonyms:disinterested, equitableBIBLIOPHILE: A lover of books - Thebibliophilefingeredthe old book fondly.Antonym:bibliophobeBIZARRE: Queer; unusual in appearance-bizarreclothes, outlandish in the extreme.Synonyms:odd, fantastic, grotesque, eccentricBLAND: Gentle; polite; agreeable - ablanddiet, without irritating foods.Synonyms: mild, suave (affable or persuasive in manner), soothing, non-irritatingAntonyms: piquant, tart, racy, caustic, acrid, pungentBLANDISHMENT: A flattering speech or act - attracted people by hisblandishments.BLEMISH(verb): To scar or spoil - Bad associatesblemishedhis character(noun): A disfigurement, defect - a character without ablemish.BLIGHT: To ruin or decay - the rotting wheat-,blightedby incessant rain.Synonyms:wither, blastBLITHE: Gay and light-hearted in spirit or mood - spread cheer with herblithespirit.Synonyms: jocund, merry,joyousAntonyms: dejected, forlorn, abjectBOG: A swamp - sank into the spongybog.Synonyms: morass, fen, quagmire, mireBOMBASTIC(noun: BOMBAST): High-sounding; pretentious in language - abombasticspeech, inflated with meaningless high-flown words.Synonyms: ranting, pompous, fustianBOORISH: Unrefined in speech or manners - exhibited theboorishmanners of a backwoodsman.Synonyms:churlish, uncouth.uncultured, crassAntonym: suaveBUCOLIC:Pertaining to the country - abucolicpoem de- the joys of the shepherd.Synonyms:pastoral, rustic, ruralBUFFOON: A clown - acting like abuffoon, full of ludicrous tricks.Synonym: harlequinBULWARK:1. An embankment used as a fortification - a loftybulwarkfor defense.Synonym: rampart2. A person, idea, or object serving as a protection - acted as abulwarkin the fight against crime.BUMPTIOUS: Obnoxiously conceited or self-assertive - abumptiousmonitor, puffed up with his own importance,Synonyms: aggressive, arrogant, contumelious, overbearingCABAL: A small group of persons engaged in plotting - acabalof prominent persons united to overthrow the government.Synonyms:junto, factionCACOPHONOUS: Unharmonious sounding - acacophonousblare of trumpets, noisy and discordant.Synonyms: dissonant, discordant, blatant, strident, raucous Antonyms: mellifluous, euphonious, dulcetCADAVEROUS: Corpselike; hence, haggard, pale -His face appearedcadaverousfrom long imprisonment.Synonyms: ghastly, gaunt, pallid (noun: pallor), wan, ashenAntonyms: rubicund, floridCALLOUS: Unfeeling or insensitive - madecallousby long suffering.Synonyms: insensible, obdurateCALUMNIATE: To accuse falsely or maliciously in order to injure another's reputation; slander -calumniatedhis political opponent by spreading false rumors.Synonyms: asperse, vilify, defame, scandalizeCANDID(noun: CANDOR): Frank, outspoken; impartial acandidreply that could hardly be more forthright.Synonyms: artless, ingenuous,unbiasedAntonyms: guileful, evasiveCANTANKEROUS: Ill-natured; quarrelsome showed acantankerousand sullen disposition.Synonyms:petulant, peevish, contentious, pugnacious, testy, choleric, fretfulAntonyms:amiable, affable, equableCAPRICIOUS: Inclined, through some whim or fancy change the mind, purpose, or actions suddenly - acapriciousperson, undependable in mood or temper.Synonyms:fickle, fitful, changeable, erratic, inconstant, crotchety, whimsical, mercurialAntonyms:steadfast, constant, even-temperedCAPTIOUS: Quick to findfaultabout trifles- acaptiouscritic pouncing on slight laws.Synonyms:hypercritical, carping,carviling, censoriousCARICATURE: A picture or other description of a person which exaggerates ludicrously one or more of his distinctive features - not a realistic portrait but a maliciouscaricature.CASTIGATE: To punish or criticize severely -castigatedfor using improper language.Synonyms:reprove, upbraid, reprehend, censure, reprimand, chastenAntonyms:commend, eulogize, laudCELESTIAL: Pertaining to the sky; heavenly-acelestialpageant of bright stars.Synonyms:ethereal; (noun) firmamentCHAUVINIST.An extreme patriot-achauvinistwith most pride in his country.Synonym:jingoistCHICANERY: Trickery, deception,-practisedchicaneryall his shady dealings.Synonyms:duplicity, craft, stratagem, wile, subterfugeCHRONIC: Continuing a long time; habitual-a.chroniccomplaint, persisting for years.Synonyms:persistent, unremitting, inveterate, incessant, constantAntonyms:intermittent, sporadic, infrequentCIRCUMSPECT: Cautious - looked about himcircumspectly.Synonyms:prudent, vigilant, discreet, waryAntonyms:rash, indiscreet, reckless, precipitate,foothardy, temerarious, headstrongCIRCUMVENT: To gain an advantage by the use of trick to evade by the use of deception; to go around -circumventedthelaw by evasive practices.Synonyms:thwart, balk, outwit, deludeCIVIL:1. Of or having to do with citizens or the state - We Icivilduties as well ascivilliberties.2. Polite, courteous - answered in acivilfashion.Synonyms: respectful, graciousCLAMOROUS: Loud and noisy - aclamorousoutburst the crowd outside.Synonyms: vociferous, obstreperous, blatant, raucous,stridentAntonyms: muted, quietCLANDESTINE: Secret; stealthy - aclandestinemeeting known only to a few.Synonyms: furtive, covert, surreptitiousAntonyms: overt, manifest, above-boardCLEMENT: Merciful; gentle - aclementjudge who tempered justice with leniency.Synonyms: compassionate, forbearingAntonyms: relentless, ruthlessCOALITION(verb: COALESCE):Alliance; merging of various units into one unit - three parties forming acoalitionto rule the country.Synonyms: amalgamation, consolidation, fusionCOERCION: Compelling a person by physical force or other means to do something against his will - rendered his services without the slightestcoercion.Synonyms: constraint, restraint, impellingCOGENT: Having the force to compel, usually by appealing to reason - persuaded bycogentarguments.Synonym: persuasiveCOLLUSION: Working together secretly for an evil purpose - acted incollusionto overthrow the government.Synonyms: collaboration, conspiracy, conniving, machinationCOMMODIOUS: Roomy - acommodiousapartment.Synonyms: spacious, capacious,ampleCOMPATIBLE: Harmonious; able, to get along together parted company because they were notcompatible.Synonyms: congruous, consistentAntonyms: incongruous, discordant, incompatibleCOMPENDIUM(adj.: COMPENDIOUS): A brief summary of the main ideas of a larger work - acompendiumof chemistry in a slim volume.Synonyms: synopsis, digest,precis, abstract, epitomeCOMPENSATION: Payment for services - justcompensationfor his labor.Synonyms: stipend, remuneration, recompense, emolumentCOMPLACENT: Self-satisfied - looked on his own performance with acomplacentsmile.Synonym: smugCOMPUNCTION: Regret for wrongdoing - displayed slightcompunctionfor his misdeed.Synonyms: contrition, penitence, atonement, remorse, qualmCONCEDE: To yield; to admit as true; to grant -concededvictory to a superior force.Synonyms: acquiesce, capitulateCONDIGN: Well-deserved (applied chiefly to punishment) - receivedcondignpunishment for his crime.CONDOLE(noun: CONDOLENCE): To express sympathy with another in sorrow, pain, or misfortune -condoledwith each other in their grief.Synonyms: commiserate, show compassion, solaceCONDONE: To forgive or overlook (an offense) -condonedthe deed, in view of the offender's age.Synonyms: extenuate, palliate, mitigate, glossCONFEDERATE(noun): A person allied with others for a special purpose (frequently a bad one) - joined hisconfederatein secret enterprise.Synonyms: collaborator, accomplice(adj.): United or allied in a conspiracy - twoconfederategroups hurrying to their rendezvous.CONGENIAL:(1) Possessing similar interests and tastes; able to get on well with others -congenialpeople with similar backgrounds.Synonym: compatible(2) Agreeable -congenialto his taste.CONJECTURE: To guess - Without facts, we can onlyconjectureabout his guilt.Synonyms: surmise, presumeCONSECRATE:(1) To set apart as sacred -consecratethe battlefield with a monument to the dead heroes. Synonyms: hallow, sanctify Antonym: desecrate(2) To devote or dedicate to some aim -consecrated hislife to teaching.CONSENSUS.General agreement - Theconsensusof the committee was that no action should be taken.Synonym: accordCONSTERNATION: Amazement; lack of courage caused by fearful prospect - The threat struck deepconsternationinto John.Synonyms: dismay, bewildermentCONSTRUE(noun: CONSTRUCTION): To interpret, explain the sense of, or analyze -construedthe statement to his own advantage.CONSUMMATE(adj.): Perfect or highly accomplished - achieved withconsummateskill.Antonyms:botched.bungled, inept(verb): To complete, bring to perfection -consummatedthe deal without delay.CONTEMPTUOUS: Expressive of contempt (an emotion involving anger and disgust) - cast acontemptuouslook at his subordinate.Synonyms: supercilious, scornful, disdainful,contumeliousCONVIVIAL: Festive; gay - aconvivialparty.Synonyms: jovial, jocund,mirthfulAntonyms: lugubrious, dolorous,mirthlessCOPIOUS: Plentiful - shedcopioustears at the bad news.Synonyms.profuse, bountiful, abundantAntonyms: meager, scantCORPULENT: Fat -corpulentdue to excessive eating.Synonyms: obese, portlyAntonyms: gaunt, lank, emaciated,peakedCOSMOPOLITAN(noun): One who is at home in all countries - Acosmopolitancan feel at ease anywhere in the world.(adj.): Free from local prejudices - a world-wide traveler,cosmopolitanin tastes and attitudes.Synonyms: CatholicAntonyms: parochial, provincialCOTERIE: A group of people joined by common interests acoterieof select friend.Synonym: cliqueCOUNTENANCE(noun): A face - Hiscountenanceexpressed his complete disgust.Synonym: visage(verb): Toapprove - refused tocountenancedisrespectful conduct.Synonym: sanctionCRASS: Coarse and stupid - displayedcrassignorance.Synonym: grossCRAVEN(noun): Coward - the deed of acraven, motivated by fear.Synonym.Poltroon(adj.): Cowardly - acravenact which shocked the world.Synonyms: pusillanimous, dastardly.Antonyms: stalwart, intrepid, valiant, stout-heartedCREDENCE: Trust or belief - gave littlecredenceto the rumor.Synonym: convictionAntonym: skepticismCREDIBLE: Worthy of belief - acrediblestory, true to life.Antonym: incredibleCREDITABLE: Deserving or reflecting Credit or honor - applauded for hiscreditableperformance.Synonyms: praiseworthy, meritorious,commendableAntonyms: discreditable, infamous, opprobrious,ignominiousCREDULOUS: Inclined to believe anything; easily imposed upon - acredulousfool whom anyone can dupe.Synonym: gullibleAntonyms: incredulous, skepticalCRINGE: To shrink in fear -cringingbefore superior force.Synonyms, cower, flinch, fawn, truckle,winceCRUCIAL: Decisive or critical; difficult - thecrucialevent that decided the outcome.CRYPTIC: Containing hidden meaning - acrypticmessage, difficult to decipher.Synonyms: occult, enigmaticAntonyms: palpable, manifestCULPABLE: Deserving blame or censure - removed from office forculpablenegligence.Synonyms: censurable, reprehensibleCUMBROUS: Burdensome and clumsy - acumbrousknapsack, impeding his march.Synonyms: cumbersome, unwieldy, bulkCURB: To control, check, or restrain - forciblycurbedthe people's protest.Synonyms: repress, subdueCURSORY: Hurried; hence, superficial- Time permitted only acursoryexamination.Antonyms: painstaking, meticulousCURT: Rudely abrupt -offended by thecurtresponse.Synonyms: blunt, brusque, bluffAntonyms: affable, civilCYNICAL: Sneeringly distrustful of the good motives or conduct of others - belittled the hero with acynicalremark.Synonyms: sarcastic, surlyDEARTH: Scarcity - adearthof news, brought about by censorship.Antonyms: plethora, abundanceDEFERENCE: Submitting to the wishes or judgment of another - yielded out ofdeferenceto the old man.Synonyms: respect, complaisance, venerationAntonym: recalcitranceDEITY: A god -The sun was adeityto ancient peoples.Synonym: divinityDELECTABLE: Very pleasing - adelectablemeal, tastefully prepared.DELETE: To erase or cancel, take out or remove -deletedanoffensive phrase.Synonyms: expunge, censor, efface, eradicateDELINEATE: To sketch or portray - striking features,delineatedby a master artist.DELINQUENT(noun): An offender - found to be adelinquentby the court.(adj.): Failing to fulfill an obligation - too many people who aredelinquentin meeting their civic duties.Synonym: derelictDELUGE: A great flood; downpour - a springdelugewhich caused the river to overflow.DEMAGOGUE: A leader who tries to stir the passions of people for his own purposes - the mob roused by an unprincipleddemagogue.DEMEANOR: Behavior; bearing - carrying himself with a prouddemeanor.Synonyms: deportment, mienDEMURE: Affectedly or falsely modest or prim; seriousdemureas a Victorian maiden.Synonyms: sedate, staid, decorous, prudish, coyAntonyms: immodest, frivolousDENOUNCE(noun: DENUNCIATION): To speak against -denouncedby the press as a traitor.Synonyms: stigmatize, censure, reprehend, castigateAntonyms: laud, eulogizeDEPLETE: To empty or to use up -depletedthe public treasury by vast building programs.Synonyms: exhaust, drainAntonyms: replenish; (adj.) repleteDEPLORE: To express sorrow or grief over - a lamentable situationdeploredby all parties.Synonyms: lament, decry,grieveDEPRAVED: Of low morals; corrupt - adepravedmind, devising evil.Synonyms: debased, wicked, vicious, pervertedDEPRECATE: To plead or argue against a certain course of action- deprecatedtheproposal severely.Synonyms: remonstrate, protest, decry,expostulateAntonym: sanctionDEPRECIATE: To belittle or speak slightingly of -depreciatedJohn's acting ability.Synonyms: disparage, derogate (adj. derogatory)Antonyms: enhance, magnify, extol, laud, eulogizeDEVASTATION: Widespread ruin - the city left in utterdevastationby war.Synonyms: destruction, desolationDEVIOUS:(1) Winding; indirect - took adevious, rather than the direct way home.Synonym: circuitous(2) Straying from the right course - useddeviousmeans to attain his wicked ends.Synonyms: crooked, erringDEVOID: Lacking in; not possessing - a speechdevoidofeven a trace of ill-will.Synonym: destituteAntonyms: abounding, prevalentDEVOUT: Devoted to religious observances -devoutin his regularity of attendance at worship.Synonyms: pious, religiousAntonym: impiousDICTUM: Art authoritative statement; a saying-an imperialdictumdemanding instant compliance.DIDACTIC: Designed to teach, imparting a lesson - a poem with adidacticpurpose.Synonym: pedagogicalDIFFIDENT: Lacking in self-confidence- toodiffidentto lead a group.Synonyms: shy, timid, reserved, reticent, retiringAntonyms:forward, aggressiveDILEMMA: A situation calling for a choice between two equally difficult alternatives; hence, a difficult or perplexing situation - faced with adilemmadefying solution.Synonyms:predicament, quandary, plightDILETTANTE: One who dabbles in the fine arts for amusement only and without concentrated study - a doctor by profession, adilettanteinart.Synonyms:amateur, connoisseurDISCONCERT: To confuse; to embarrass -disconcertedby his suspicious stare.Synonyms:perturb, discomfit, discompose, abash, disquiet, flusterDISCONSOLATE: Depressed; without hope or possibility of consolation - madedisconsolateby abject poverty.Synonyms:inconsolable, dejectedAntonyms:blithesome, carefreeDISCOURSE: To converse or talk; to discuss -discoursedat length on the rise of political parties.DISCRETE: Separate - twodiscreteissues, totally unrelated.DISCURSIVE: Rambling from one subject to another - adiscursiveletter, covering many topics.Synonyms:desultory, digressiveDISPARITY(adj.: DISPARATE): Inequality; difference in image, quantity, character, or rank - greatdisparitybetween promise and performance.DISPASSIONATE: Free from feeling or partiality - coldlydispassionateas the chairman of the meetingSynonyms:palm, impartialAntonym:partialDISPATCH(verb): To do speedily; to send off -dispatchedwith remarkable promptness.Synonym: expedite(noun): A speedy performance; the sending off of something - done with all possibledispatch.Synonyms: celerity, alacrityDISPEL: To drive away; to scatter -dispelleda doubt that had lingered.Synonyms:dissipate, disperse, diffuseDISSENT(noun: DISSENSION): To disagree; to differ in opinion - Hedissentedviolently, rejecting compromise.DISSOLUTE: Living loosely; unrestrained in conduct or morals - his life wasted bydissoluteconduct.Synonyms:debauched, dissipated, profligateDISTRAUGHT: Mentally distressed; distracted -distraughtby trials and tribulations.Synonym: harassedDIVERSE: (verb: DIVERSIFY; noun: DIVISIBILITY): Varied; different - twodiversecharacters; one candid, the other insincere.Synonym: multifariousDIVERTING: Entertaining - adivertingone of the most amusing I've ever seen.DIVULGE: To make public or reveal - refused todivulgehis source of information.Synonyms: disclose, impartDOGMATIC: Positive in expressing an opinion; asserting an opinion as though it were an undisputed fact - spokendogmatically, as if the speaker considered himself infallible.Synonyms: overbearing, opinionated, peremptory, dictatorialDOLOROUS: Sorrowful; mournful - adoloroussong full of sorrow for past joys.Synonyms: doleful, lugubrious,grievousAntonyms: jocund, blithe,mirthfulDYNAMIC: Forceful - possesseddynamicenergy, tireless and powerful.Synonym: energeticAntonyms: static, inert, dormant, torpid, sluggish, quiescentECCLESIASTIC(adj.):Pertaining to the clergy or the church - recognized as an authority inecclesiasticmatters. Antonyms: secular, lay(noun): A clergyman - anecclesiasticof liberal views.EDICT: A public command or proclamation issued by an authority - proclaimed by royaledict.Synonym: decreeEDIFY: To instruct or uplift, particularly in morals or religion - a story thatedifiesthereader, as well as entertains himEFFETE: No longer productive; hence,lacking in or, worn out - powerful in ancient days, now aneffetecivilization.EGOTISTIC: Conceited - anegotisticperson, flourishing on praise.Synonyms:egocentric, vainAntonym:altruisticEGREGIOUS: Outstandingly bad anegregiousmistakewith serious implications.EJACULATE: To exclaim or utter suddenly-ejaculatedacry of horror.ELICIT: To draw out-elicitednoresponse from the audience.Synonyms:evoke, extract, extortELUCIDATE: To make clear; to explain-elucidatedhistheory so that even a schoolboy could understand it.Synonym:clarifyEMISSARY: A person sent on an errand or mission - delegated hisemissaryto conclude a pact.ENGENDER: To cause, produce, or stir up-an act thatengenderedgoodwill.ENNUI: Boredom; weariness of mind-fell asleep at the meeting from sheerennui.ENSUE: To follow or result-Silenceensuedwhenthe leader arose to speak.ENTREAT: To beg earnestly-entreatedthejudge to show mercy.Synonyms:solicit, supplicate, beseech, implore,importune;(adj.)importunate, mendicant, suppliantEPHEMERAL: Very short-lived - anephemeraljoy, lasting but a day.Synonyms:fleeting, transitory, transient, evanescentAntonym:eternalEPICUREAN(noun):A person devoted to luxurious living and pleasure - anepicurean,seeking to enjoy every meal.(adj.):Pleasure-loving - His entire existence demonstrated hisepicureantastes.EPIGRAM: A brief pointed saying - a speech full of originalepigrams.Synonyms: maxim proverb, adageEPITAPH: A tombstone inscription - anepitaphengravedon marble.EPITHET: A phrase that describes a quality (good or bad) in a person or thing - "Glaring" error is a commonly usedepithet.Synonyms:characterization ,appellationEQUANIMITY(adj.:EQUABLE): Evenness of temper or mind - suffered his cruel fate withequanimity.Synonyms: serenity, composure, imperturbability, aplombERR(noun: ERRATUM): To be mistaken or go astray - Toerris human, to forgive divine.Synonyms: stray, blunderERRATIC: Irresponsible, eccentric; lacking a fixed purposeerraticbehavior, reflecting his queer ideas.ERUDITE:Learned- aneruditeperson, an editor of many books.Synonyms:scholarly ,knowingESOTERIC: Understood by only a select few - anesotericsubject, discussed only by scholars.Synonyms: abstruse, reconditeEXCEPTIONABLE: Objectionable -exceptionablebehavior, universally criticized.Synonyms:questionable, reprehensible,censurableAntonym: laudableEXCULPATE: To free from blame- exculpatedby a jury.Synonyms: vindicate, exonerate, absolve, acquitAntonyms: arraign, indict, inculpateEXEMPLARY(noun: EXEMPLAR): Serving as a model; commendable- exemplaryconduct approved by all.Synonyms: illustrative, typical; praiseworthy, laudableEXODUS: Departure, emigration - the patheticexodusof refugees from their homeland.EXOTIC: Strange and foreign - anexoticcostume imported fromAsia.EXPATIATE: To speak or write at great length - Heexpatiatedon the subject for two hours.Synonym: dilateEXPATRIATE(verb): To banish or exile; to withdraw from one's country -expatriatedfor treachery to his country.(noun): An expatriated person -expatriateswho left theUnited Statesto live inParis.EXPEDIENT(adj.): Convenient in helping to attain some purpose - found itexpedientto maintain silence at that moment.Synonyms: opportune, seasonable(noun): A means to accomplish something - tried allexpedientsto achieve a quick result.EXPLOIT(verb): To use for one's selfish purpose refugeesexploitedby unscrupulous employers.(noun): A brilliant deed - lauded for hisexploitsin science.Synonym: featEXPOUND(noun: EXPOSITION): To set forth in detail; to explain -expoundedhis theory in a learned article.EXPURGATE: To purify (usually a piece of writing) of offensive material -expurgateall obscenities before the book could be sold.Synonyms: purge, deleteEXTEMPORANEOUS: Done or spoken on the spur of the moment or without preparation - anextemporaneousspeech.Synonyms: impromptu, offhandEXTINCT: No longer existing or active - theextinctdinosaur, alive only in history.Synonym: defunctAntonym: extantEXTIRPATE: To root out, destroy totally -extirpatedthe cause of trouble.Synonyms: eradicate, exterminate, efface, obliterateEXTRANEOUS.Not essential; foreign; irrelevant - excluded materialextraneousto the subject.Synonyms: extrinsic, adventitiousAntonyms: germane, intrinsic, inherent, relevant,pertinentEXULTATION: Great rejoicing - received the good news withexultation.Synonym: jubilationFACADE: Front or face, especially of a building - afacadeof marble.FACETIOUS: Given to joking or inappropriate gaiety; said in fun - brightened the evening with hisfacetiousremarks.Synonyms: jocose, droll, flippant,frivolousAntonyms: solemn, grave, saturnineFALLACIOUS(noun: FALLACY): Unsound; misleading; deceptive - led astray byfallaciousreasoning and plans.FALLIBLE: Liable to make mistakes or be deceived - Being human, Tom was naturallyfallible.Antonyms: infallible, unerringFATHOM: To penetrate and understand - difficult tofathomhis mysterious actions.FATUOUS: Foolish; silly - afatuoussuggestion that struck us as stupid.Synonyms: inane, vacuous,puerileAntonyms: judicious, sagacious, sageFEALTY: Faithfulness - The soldiers were pledged tofealtyto their ruler.Synonyms: allegiance, constancy, fidelityAntonyms: disloyalty; infidelity, treacheryFEASIBLE: Workable - afeasibleplan, proved practical by - previous experience.Antonym: impracticable245FEIGN(noun: FEINT): To pretend - Hefeigned tobe angry, but we saw through his pretense.Synonyms: dissemble, sham, dissimulate, affectFELICITY(adj.: FELICITOUS):(1) A state of happiness - promotedfelicityin the nation.Synonym: bliss(2) A high ability - lie has afelicityof language, mastery of the well-chosen phrase.FERVID: Spirited; ardent - aferviddebater, full of emotion.Synonyms: perfervid, impassioned, zealous, fervent,vehementFESTOON(noun): A garland of flowers, leaves, etc. hung between two points - the room bright withfestoonsof Thanksgiving decorations.(verb): Tohang with festoons - a roomfestoonedwith spring flowers.FETISH.(1) Something that is believed to have magical powers - savages worshipping thefetishin a ceremonial dance.Synonym: charm, talisman, amulet(2) An object of unreasoning devotion and worship Photography, begun as a hobby, became afetish.FIASCO: A ludicrous and complete failure - all his glorious plans ending in afiasco.Synonym: debacleFICTITIOUS: Unreal; made-up - used afictitiousname to avoid being recognized.Synonym: fabricatedFLACCID: Lacking firmness - muscles grownflaccidafter the illness.Synonyms: flabby, limpFLAGRANT: Outstandingly bad - condemned for hisflagrantabuse of power.Synonyms: glaring, scandalous, notorious, conspicuous, grossFLAMBOYANT: Elaborately showy - written in aflamboyant, style, full of highly decorative imagery.Synonyms: florid, ornate, resplendent, embellished, garish, gaudy, gorgeous, rococoAntonym: somberFLAUNT: Display or wave boastfully -flauntedthe excellent report before his delighted parents.FLEETING: Passing swiftly -thefleetinghours of happinessSynonyms: transitory, fugitiveFLUCTUATE: To waver from one course to another; to vary irregularly - his moodfluctuatingwith every hour.Synonyms: oscillate, vacillate, undulate,swayFORBEAR(noun: FORBEARANCE): To exercise self control; to keep from -forbearingto shoot the animal despite temptation.Synonyms: restrain, abstainFORENSIC: Pertaining to public discussion or law courts - a lawyer gifted inforensicdebate.Synonyms: rhetorical, oratoricalFORTUITOUS: Accidental - afortuitousmeeting with a friend in need.Synonyms: casual, incidental, adventitious, randomFRACAS: A disorderly quarrel - Afracasbroke up the meeting.Synonyms: brawl, altercation, fray, wrangle, imbroglioFRUSTRATE: To prevent (the attainment of an object); to defeat or render ineffectual - His scholastic progress wasfrustrated bya serious illness.Synonyms: balk, thwart, foil, baffle, obstruct, discomfitAntonym: abetFULSOME: Disgustingly excessive - nauseated byfulsomepraise.GARNISH: To trim or decorate - dishesgarnishedattractively with greens.Synonyms: adorn, deckGENEALOGY: A record of a person's or a family's ancestors or relatives - an interestinggenealogy, including saints and sinners.Synonym: lineageGENESIS: Origin - chemistry, which had itsgenesisin alchemy.Synonym: inceptionGESTICULATE: To make gestures, or indicate feelings by.motions-gesticulated wildlyto show his distress.GHASTLY: Horrible, deathlike - aghastlydisaster which shocked the world.Synonyms: gruesome, grisly, pallid, macabre, grim, luridGIBE(variant spelling: JIBE): To laugh at; to utter with scorn -gibedat his enemy mercilessly.Synonyms: mock, sneer, jeer, scoff, flout, deride (adj.: derisive), rail, tauntGLIB: Smooth-spoken, fluent - aglibliar, distorting the truth effortlessly.GLUTTONOUS(noun.GLUTTON; verb: GLUT): Inclined to cat to excess - gulped down his food ingluttonousfashion.Synonyms:voracious, intemperateGOSSAMER(noun): A very thin gauzelike fabric or structure - a poem so delicate that it seemedan unrealgossamer.(adj.): Thin and light - thegossamerwings of a dragon fly.Synonyms: diaphanous, flimsy, gauzelike Antonyms: substantial, ponderousGREGARIOUS: Habitually fond of associating in a company or herd -gregarioussheep; thatgregariousanimal, man.Antonyms:lone, aloofGRIMACE: A distortion of the face to express an attitude or feeling - agrimacethat was more expressive than words.HAIL: To greet - The crowdhailedthe returning hero.Synonyms: accost, saluteHARANGUE(verb): To deliver a long.noisyspeech-haranguedthe multitude.Synonyms: rant, declaim(noun): A loud, tiresome speech - an emptyharanguewhich bored his audience.Synonym: tiradeHARBINGER, A forerunner; ail announcer - the robin,harbingerof spring.Synonyms:precursor, heraldHAUGHTY: Proud; looking down with contempt on others - dismissed the messenger in ahaughtymanner.HEEDLESS: Thoughtless; taking little care - rushed into battle,heedlessof the danger.Synonyms: inadvertent, rash, incautiousAntonyms: prudent, circumspect, mindful,waryHEINOUS: Wicked; hateful - committed aheinouscrime.Synonyms: atrocious, outrageous, monstrous, odious, nefarious,abominableHERESY: An opinion held in opposition to the traditional view - a view condemned asheresy.Synonym: heterodoxyAntonym: orthodoxyHIATUS: A gap or vacancy; break -left ahiatuson the page where he erased a sentence.Synonym:breachHISTRIONIC: Pertaining to the theater; designed for show - broke intohistrioniclaughter, hollow and insincere.Synonyms: dramatic, theatricalHOAX(noun): A trick or deception; a practical joke - played ahoaxupon the credulous public.Synonym: canard(verb): To play a trick on; to deceive - Hehoaxedthe crowd completely with his disguise.HOMONYM: Two words having the same sound but different meanings - confusing suchhomonymsas mail add male.HOVEL: A dirty or wretched dwelling - born in ahovel, died in a mansion.HYPERBOLE: Extravagant exaggeration for effect - An example ofhyperbole:"There are a million objections to the project."Synonym: overstatementAntonym: understatementHYPOTHESIS: An assumption made for the sake of argument - worked from a fantastichypothesis.Synonym: suppositionIDIOSYNCRASY: A. personal peculiarity - Wearing white was one of Whistler'sidiosyncrasies.Synonyms: eccentricity, foible, mannerism, crotchet, aberration, quirk, singularityIGNOMINIOUS(noun: IGNOMINY): Incurring public disgrace - suffered anignominiousdescent from political power.Synonyms: infamous, degrading, opprobrious,odiousAntonyms: illustrious, renowned,preeminentIMMACULATE: Spotless; pure - animmaculatereputation.Synonyms: undefiled, unsullied, unblemished,untarnishedAntonyms: defiled, sullied, blemishedIMMINENT: Likely to occur soon - stood inimminentperil.Synonym: impendingIMMUNE(verb: IMMUNIZE): Exempt from; protected from -immunefrom taxation.Synonym :unsusceptibleIMPALE: To pierce through with a pointed instrument -impaleda spider to the wall.IMPEACH:(1) To accuse (a public official) of wrongdoing -impeachedthe judge for accepting a bribe.Synonym: arraign(2) To cast discredit upon -impeachedhis motives.Synonyms: call in question, discreditIMPECCABLE: Faultless - performed withimpeccableskill.Synonyms: consummate, irreproachable, unerring, infallibleAntonyms: culpable, fallibleIMPERVIOUS: Incapable of being penetrated - a mindimperviousto new ideas.Synonyms: impermeable, impenetrableAntonyms: permeable, pervasiveIMPLACABLE: Incapable of being soothed, made peaceful, or forgiving -implacableresentment.Synonyms: unrelenting, inexorable,unappeasableAntonyms:placable, forbearingIMPLICIT:(1) Implied but not clearly expressed - animplicitagreement.(2) Unquestioning -implicitconfidence.Synonyms: tacit, impliedAntonym: explicitIMPORT(noun): Meaning; significance or importance - a matter of greatimport.Synonyms: purport, moment, consequenceIMPOSTOR(noun: IMPOSTURE): One who pretends to be what he isnotunmaskedas animpostor.Synonyms: quack, mountebank, charlatan, bogus, fraudIMPRECATION: A curse - hurledimprecationsat those who would not listen to him.Synonyms: execration, malediction, anathemaAntonyms: benediction, benisonIMPREGNABLE: Unconquerable - animpregnablefortress.Synonym: invincibleAntonym: vulnerableIMPROPRIETY: Improper act, manners, or expression - guilty ofimproprietyin public office.Synonyms: indecency, indecorumAntonym: amenityIMPROVIDENT: Lacking in thrift; not providing for future needs - animprovidentspender.Synonyms: prodigal, shiftlessIMPUGN: To attack or criticize as false; to call in question -impugnedhis honesty.INCARCERATE: To imprison - crushed his opponents byincarceratingthem.Synonyms: intern, immureAntonyms: emancipate, enfranchiseINCISIVE: Cutting, penetrating -incisivecriticism.Synonyms: sarcastic, mordant, trenchant, acuteINCOGNITO.With one's identity concealed - traveledincognito.INCONTROVERTIBLE: Indisputable -incontrovertibleevidence.Synonyms: irrefutable, -indubitableINCREMENT: An increase - a salaryincrement.Synonym: accrualINCUMBENT(noun):An officeholder - theincumbentin an election.(adj.): Obligatory - felt itincumbentto reply.Synonyms: - mandatory, imperativeINDEFATIGABLE: Untiring - anindefatigableworker.Synonyms:unflagging, unremitting, perseveringINDIGENOUS: Native - Rice isindigenoustoChina.Synonyms:innate, inbornINDOOMITABLE: Stubborn in determination not to be subdued -indomitablecourage.Synonyms:insuperable, irrepressible, invincible, unyieldingAntonyms:tractable, amenable, docile, submissiveINFERENCE: A conclusion reached by reasoning from data or premises - aninferencedrawn from his remarks.Synonyms:deduction, implicationINGENIOUS: Demonstrating originality, skill, or resourcefulness - aningeniousdevice.Synonyms:dextrous, inventive, adroitAntonyms:maladroit, gaucheINGENUOUS: Simple and straightforward; concealing nothing - aningenuousplan that anyone could see through.Synonyms: unsophisticated, naive, candidAntonym: sophisticatedINGRATIATE: To win another's favor or good opinion tried toingratiatehimself with the politician.INHIBIT: To check or hinder -inhibitedhis friend from a foolhardy course.Synonyms:restrain, curbAntonym: promoteINNOCUOUS: Harmless; inoffensive - aninnocuousremark, but it enraged him.INNUENDO: An indirect reference or suggestion (frequently derogatory) - conveyed his idea byinnuendo.Synonyms: (verb) intimate, insinuateINORDINATE: Excessive - spoiled byinordinatepraise.Synonyms: immoderate, intemperate,extravagantINSATIABLE: Unable to be satisfied -insatiablegreedSynonyms.unappeasable, unquenchable, insatiateINSCRUTABLE: Incapable of interpretation or understanding - theinscrutablesmile of the Mona Lisa.Synonyms: unfathomable, cryptic,enigmaticINSIDIOUS: Working secretly or slyly - thatinsidiousdisease, cancer.Synonyms: wily, crafty, furtive, treacherous, artful, guileful perfidiousINSTIGATE: To stir tip -instigateddiscontent among the soldiers.Synonyms: foment, inciteINTEGRITY: Honesty, moral soundness - a man of provedintegrity.Synonyms: probity, uprightness, incorruptibilityINVEIGH(noun-. INVECTIVE): To speak angrily or bitterly-inveighedagainst economic discrimination.Synonyms: rail, denounce, fulminate,vituperateIRASCIBLE: Easily angered - Even petty things made Peterirascible.Synonyms: choleric, petulant, testy, peevish, splenetic, touchyAntonyms: placid, equableIRE: Anger -aroused hisire.Synonyms: resentment; (adj.) irate, incensedIRKSOME: Tedious, monotonous - anirksomechore that no one liked.ITINERANT: Traveling about; wandering - anitinerantsalesman.Synonym: nomadicJARGON: Confused, unintelligible, meaningless talk; special vocabulary used only by members of a group or trade - Variety, a newspaper written in theatricaljargon.Synonyms: gibberish, argot, cantJAUNTY: Having an air of easy carelessness or liveliness - walked with ajauntystep.Synonyms: sprightly, airy, gay, nonchalant, debonairAntonyms: somber, staidJEOPARDY: Danger - His life was injeopardy.Synonyms: hazard, perilJETTISON: To throw overboard (as cargo); to throw off (as a burden or something in theway )-jettisoned theirold candidate as a political liability.JUDICIOUS: Wise; using or exhibiting good judgment - a well-chosen plan, termedjudiciousby all.Synonyms:discreet, politic, discerningKALEIDOSCOPIC: Constantly changing or varying in pattern or scenes -kaleidoscopicviews ofNew York.KEN: Range of sight or understanding - something beyond ourken.Synonym: insightLABYRINTH(adj.: LABYRINTHINE): A structure or intricate passage out of which it is difficult to find one's way (also applied to spiritual and intellectual complexities) - confused by alabyrinth ofintellectual discussions.Synonym:mazeLACHRYMOSE: Causing or given to shedding tears - alachrymosetragedy.LACONIC: Saying much in few words - alaconicreply that spoke volumes.Synonyms:concise, pithy, terse, succinct, taciturn, reticentAntonyms:verbose, prolix, redundant, diffuse, tautological, turgid, garrulous, volubleLARCENY: Theft - indicted for grandlarceny.LATENT: Hidden; present but not fully developed -latenttalent that time will reveal.Synonyms:dormant, quiescent, covert, potentialAntonyms:apparent, patentLAVISH:(1) Profuse or generous -lavishin praise.Synonyms: ample, superabundant(2) Given to extravagance - alavishspender.Synonyms: prodigal, munificent, magnanimous.Antonyms: parsimonious, niggardly, frugal,penuriousLETHAL: Deadly - alethal weapon.Synonyms: mortal, fatalLONGEVITY: Prolonged duration of life - a country remarkable for thelongevityof its inhabitants.LOW: To bellow softly like cattle - thelowingherd in the meadow.Synonym: mooLUCID: Clear; transparent; easily understood - alucidexplanation of a difficult text.Synonyms: pellucid, perspicuous, intelligible, limpid, luminous,translucentAntonyms: abstruse, obscureLUDICROUS: Ridiculous; producing laughter - aludicrousremark that set them alltoroaring.Synonyms: mirthful, droll, comical, absurdAntonyms: doleful, lugubrious, dismalLUMINARY: An eminent person; a celestial body - the platform graced by a number ofluminaries.MACHIAVELLIAN: Sacrificing moral principles in order to attain power; politically cunning; crafty - amachiavelliandesign, wickedly contrived.Synonym: unscrupulousMALICIOUS(noun:MALICE): Bearing, or acting with, deliberate ill-will or spite - hurting withmaliciousintent.Synonyms:rancorous, malignant, malevolent, virulent, vindictiveAntonym: benignMASQUERADE(verb):To assume a deceptive appearance or character - a thiefmasqueradingas an honest man.Synonyms: dissemble, feign(noun):A disguise; a group of people in disguise or fancy costumes - amasquerade soperfect no one could guess his identity.MAUDLIN: Sentimental to the point of tears - turnedmaudlinat the mention of his lost dog.Synonym :mawkish, lachrymoseMEANDER: To walk about (or talk) aimlessly; to wind about (as a stream) -meanderedthrough the town, looking into shop windows.Synonym: rambleMEDIOCRE: Average in quality - amediocreperformance, unworthy of his talents.MERCENARY: Acting solely from a consideration of reward or profit - actuated by amercenarymotive.Synonym: venalMERETRICIOUS: Attracting in a false, cheap, or showy manner- ameretriciousbeauty that is too flashy to be real.Synonyms:tawdry, speciousMETICULOUS: Fussy about minute details - tookmeticulouspains with his composition.Synonyms:fastidious, punctilious,overscrupulous, finical, methodicalAntonyms:desultory, perfunctory, slovenlyMETTLE(adj.: METTLESOME: high-spirited ): Disposition; spirit; courage - Hismettlewas tried in battle.Idiom: to be on one'smettle(meaning, ready to do one's best)Synonyms:temperament, ardorMICROCOSM: A little world, or a universe in miniature this village, amicrocosmof the great outside world.Antonym:macrocosm(world on a large scale)MIMIC: To make fun of or copy by imitating -mimickedthe comedian's gestures.MISANTHROPIC(noun: MISANTHROPE): Hating or distrusting mankind - condemned for hismisanthropicviews.Antonyms: philanthropic, altruisticMISNOMER: A name or term that describes wrongly - To call him a brave man is really amisnomer.MONOLOGUE: A speech by one person - The actor gave his views in a dramaticmonologue.Synonym:soliloquyAntonyms:colloquy(adj. colloquial): conversation between two or more persons; dialogue: conversation between two personsMOROSE: Gloomy; ill-humored - shunned because of hismorosetemper.Synonyms: sulky, crabbed, sullen, splenetic, saturnineAntonyms: blithe, genialMOTLEY: Of various colors; of mixed ingredients - amotleycostume; amotleycrowd.Synonyms: checkered (referring to a varied career), piebald, variegated, diverse, heterogeneousAntonym: homogeneousMOTTLED: Spotted or streaked with varied colors - amottledpony.Synonyms:blotched, dappledMUNDANE: Of, or pertaining to, the world, as contrasted with the spirit -mundaneaffairs.Synonyms:earthly, terrestrial, secular, temporalMURKY: Dark; cloudy - amurkycavern.Synonyms:dismal, tenebrous, fuliginousAntonyms:resplendent, glowing, lustrous, luminous, fulgent, coruscatingMUTABLE: Given to frequent change in nature, mood, or form-mutableinmood as a spring wind.Synonyms:vacillating, fickle, inconstant, fitful, mercurial, wavering, capriciousAntonyms:constant, steadyMYRIAD: Innumerable - themyriadstars in the heavens.NAUTICAL: Pertaining to ships or navigation - anauticalcareer.Synonyms: marine, naval, maritimeNETTLE: To irritate or provoke -nettledby his critics.Synonyms: vex, pique, goadNOCTURNAL: Pertaining to, or occurring in, the night - awakened by the sounds of anocturnalprowler.Antonym: diurnalNOISOME: Foul-smelling; harmful-the swamp gave off anoisomeodor.Synonyms: malodorous, fetid, disgusting; noxious, deleteriousAntonym: salubriousNONCHALANT: Unmoved or indifferent; casual - reacted to the news in anonchalantmanner.Synonym: apatheticAntonyms: enthusiastic, zealousNOSTALGIA: Homesickness - feltnostalgiafor the oldhomestead.NOTORIOUS: Widely known (in a bad sense) - anotoriousgambler.NOVICE: A beginner - conducted himself in politics like anovice.Synonyms:tyro, neophyteAntonym:virtuosoOBDURATE: Hard-hearted; stubborn - anobdurate, unrepentant criminal.Synonyms:adamant, unyielding, inflexibleAntonyms:submissive, docile, compliantOBLIVIOUS(noun: OBLIVION): Forgetful; absent-minded - walkingobliviousof his surroundings.Synonyms:unmindful, heedless, abstractedOBSESSION: A persistent feeling, idea, activity, etc., which dominates a person; the state of being exclusively preoccupied by a fixed idea - Now that he has learned bowling, it has become hisobsession.Synonyms:mania, infatuation (a foolish passion), monomaniaOBSOLETE: No longer in use - anobsoleteword, not even included by most dictionaries.Synonyms:archaic, antiquatedOBTRUSIVE(verb: OBTRUDE): Thrusting oneself or itself into undue prominence - made himself obnoxiouslyobtrusive.Synonyms:intrusive, aggressiveOBVIATE: To prevent, dispose of, or make unnecessary by appropriate actions - an act whichobviatedall objections.Synonyms:preclude, forestallOMNIPOTENT: All-powerful - anomnipotentdespot.ONUS: Burden; duty; obligation - bore theonusof his difficult office creditably.OSTENSIBLE: Apparent; pretended - hisostensible, though not actual, purpose.Synonyms:professed, plausible (that is, appearing true, reasonable, or fair), speciousOSTRACIZE: To banish; to exclude from public favor or privileges - a former premierostracizedby popular vote.Synonym: outlawPANACEA: A remedy for all ills - seeking apanaceato cure our social troubles.Synonym: nostrumPANEGYRIC: A speech or writing of extravagant praise - delivered apanegyricat his friend's testimonial dinner.Synonyms:eulogy, adulation, tribute, laudation (adj. laudatory), encomiumAntonyms:censure, disparagement, derogation, castigation, depreciationPARADOX: A self -contradictory statement; something 'that appears to be absurd and yet may be true -"Life is too important a matter to he taken seriously." -aparadoxby Oscar Wilde.Synonym: anomalyPARAPHRASE: To restate the meaning of a passage in other words -paraphrasedthe poem in a few lines of prose.PARODY(noun): A humorous imitation of an author's style and mannerisms - wrote aparodyon Kipling's "GungaDin."Synonym: burlesque(verb): To write a parody - parodied the popular authors of the (lay to his audience's amusement.Synonym: MimicPECCADILLO: A petty fault-possesses onepeccadilloamong his many virtues.Synonyms: frailty, foible, flaw, blemishPECUNIARY: Pertaining to money - involved inpecuniarydifficulties.Synonyms; financial, fiscal, monetaryPEDANT(adj.: PEDANTIC): One whoproudly showsoffhislearning or whooverrates his knowledge - like apedantglorying in his scholarly trifles.PENSIVE: Sadly thoughtful - softly sang hispensivesong.Synonyms: reflective, meditative, contemplative, musingPEREMPTORY: Positive in expressing an opinion - gave aperemptoryjudgment.Synonyms:decisive, resolute, imperious, positive, dogmaticAntonyms:indecisive, tentativePERTINACIOUS: Clinging doggedly to an opinion or purpose -pertinaciousin his efforts.Synonyms:obdurate, tenacious, persistent, persevering, intractable, inflexiblePERUSE: To read carefully -perusedthe important letter.PERVERSE: Willfully bent on doing the wrong thing - aperverselad, always disobeying his parents.Synonyms:headstrong,froward, refractory, wayward, fractiousPETRIFY: To paralyze with horror, fear, or surprise -petrifiedby the enemy bombardment.Synonyms:stupefy, stun, bewilder, amazePLAGIARISM.Adopting and reproducing, without acknowledgment, the writings or ideas of another and passing them off as one's own - denied the charge of deliberateplagiarism.PLATITUDE: A dull and commonplace remark - bored people by his pompous phrases andplatitudes.Synonyms:bromide, truism, axiomPLEBEIAN: Pertaining to the common people; hence, common or vulgar -plebeianin his tastes and outlook.Antonyms:patrician, aristocraticPLEBISCITE.A direct vote by the people - The decision to confederate was ratified byplebiscite.POIGNANT:(1) Gripping and moving the feelings powerfully - apoignantgrief.(2) Piercing, biting, pointed - a poignant cry;poignantwit.PONDEROUS: Very heavy; clumsy; dull - aponderousspeech, extremely boring.PRECARIOUS: Uncertain or risky - earning aprecariouslivelihood, providing no luxuries.PRECIPITOUS:(1) Very steep - aprecipitouscliff.(2) Descending rapidly - aprecipitousdecline in popularity.PRECOCIOUS: Remarkable for early mental development aprecociousgenius.PREDATORY:(1) Inclined to plunder or rob; -predatorybands roaming the countryside.(2) Preying on, others -predatoryanimals prowling about.Synonyms: predacious, looting, pillagingPREDILECTION: Partiality or preference for; a favorable opinion arrived at beforehand - apredilectionfor theatricals.Synonyms: prepossession, proclivity, predisposition, penchantAntonyms: aversion, antipathy, repugnancePRELUDE: An introduction, forerunner, or preliminary step - a shortpreludeto the play.Synonyms: preface, prologue, preamble.Antonym: epiloguePREROGATIVE: A privilege or power attaching to a position - It is a woman'sprerogativeto refuse to tell her age.Synonym: licensePRESTIGE: Esteem or influence accorded for recognized achievements or reputation - As Senator he enjoyed greatprestige.Synonym: distinction415,PRECOCIOUS: Remarkable for early mental development aprecociousgenius.PREDATORY:(1) Inclined to plunder or rob; -predatorybands roaming the countryside.(2) Preying on, others -predatoryanimals prowling about.Synonyms: predacious, looting, pillagingPREDILECTION: Partiality or preferencefor; a favorable opinion arrived at beforehand - apredilectionfor theatricals.Synonyms: prepossession, proclivity, predisposition, penchantAntonyms: aversion, antipathy, repugnancePRELUDE: An introduction, forerunner, or preliminary step - a shortpreludeto the play.Synonyms: Preface, prologue. PreambleAntonym: epiloguePREROGATIVE: A privilege or power attaching to a position - It is a woman'sprerogativeto refuse to tell her age.Synonym: licensePRESTIGE: Esteem or influence accorded for recognized achievements or reputation - As Senator he enjoyed greatprestige.Synonym: distinctionPRESUMPTION:(1) Something taken for granted - acted on a reasonablepresumption.(2) Going beyond proper bounds; impudent boldness - His question was downrightpresumption.Synonyms: effrontery, forwardness, arrogancePREVARICATE: To disguise or conceal the truth to lie -prevaricatedin order to avoid detection.Synonyms: quibble, equivocate; (adj.) mendaciousAntonyms: (noun) veracity, verity; (adj.) forthrightPROCRASTINATE: To postpone or put off to another time - missed his opportunity byprocrastinatingtoo long.Synonyms: defer, delayPROGNOSTICATE(noun: PROGNOSIS): To forecast - The Weather Bureauprognosticatesdaily.Synonyms:presage, portend, augur, forebodePROLETARIAT: The wage-earning class - atruckman, humble member of theproletariat.PROMONTORY: A cliff - an imposingpromontoryalong the coast.Synonyms:headland, precipicePROMULGATE: To publish or proclaim; to spread abroad The Presidentpromulgateda decree.Synonym:disseminatePROTUBERANT: Bulging or swelling out - aprotuberantjaw.Antonyms:receding, recessivePROVISIONAL: Temporary; for the time being - aprovisionalplan until a permanent decision is reached.Synonym:tentativePROXIMITY: Nearness-worked in closeproximityto his home.Synonyms :propinquity, vicinityAntonym:remotenessPSEUDONYM: A false name assumed by a writer - concealed his identity by apseudonym.Synonyms:alias, pen name, nom de plumePUNITIVE: Inflicting, or concerned with, punishment - tookpunitivemeasures against deserters.QUASH: To crush; to render void -quasheda rebellion;quashedan indictment.Synonyms:suppress, extinguish, quell; annulQUERULOUS: Given to fault-finding and complaining - Herquerulousnature estranged many people.Synonyms:fretful, whining, captious, carping, peevish, petulantAntonym: affableQUIXOTIC: Extravagantly romantic or idealistic; highly impractical - aquixoticscheme that can never materialize.Synonyms:utopian, visionary, fantasticRACONTEUR: A skilled storyteller - held spellbound by a superbraconteur.RADICAL(noun): One who advocates extreme basic changes - The reform movement was led by aradical.(adj.): Thorough, extreme -radicalmeasures adopted to meet the emergency.Antonym:(noun and adj.)conservativeRAMIFICATION: A branching; sub-division - studied the subject in all itsramifications.RAZE: To tear down completely-razedthe old building.Synonyms:levelAntonym:rearRECAPITULATE: To restate in a brief, concise form; to sum up -recapitulatedthe main ideas.RECIPROCAL: Mutual; done in return for something received - held each other inreciprocalesteem.RECUMBENT: Lying down; leaning back or down - resting in arecumbentposition.REDOLENT:(1) Fragrant - a roomredolentof roses.Synonym: aromatic(2) Reminiscent of -redolentof olden times.REDOUBTABLE: Commanding fear or respect - cringing before aredoubtableenemy.Synonym:formidableREFUTE: To prove incorrect or false-refutedhis opponent's argument.Synonyms:rebut, confuteAntonyms: substantiate, confirm, corroborateREITERATE: Repeat (several times) -reiteratedhis story once more.REMUNERATIVE: Profitable - aremunerativejob.Synonyms: lucrative, gainfulRENEGADE: One who forsakes political or party principles or his religious faith - arenegadefrom his formerallegiance.Synonyms: turncoat, apostate, recreant, traitorREPRISAL: Injury inflicted in turn for one received - took action inreprisalagainst his neighbor.Synonym: retaliationRESENTMENT: Feeling of displeasure or indignation resulting from mistreatment or abuse - showedresentmentat what he considered an unwarranted insult.Synonyms: umbrage, dudgeon, animosityRESILIENT: Elastic; light-hearted; possessing power of recovery - aresilientSpirit, refusing to admit defeat.Synonyms: flexible, pliable, supple, limberRESPITE:(1) Temporary deferment or cessation of work or pain - a briefrespitefrom labor.Synonym: surcease(2) A temporary delay in the execution of -a sentence - granted the doom man a temporaryrespite.Synonym: reprieveRETRIBUTION: The reward or punishment exacted for an injury, wickedness, or other action - suffered justretributionfor his folly.Synonyms: requital, nemesisRETRIEVE:(1) To make good -retrieveda mistake.(2) To recover -retrievedthe suitcase left at the station.(3) To restore -retrievedhis lost fortunes.REVERBERATE: To echo - a shotreverberatingthrough the valley.Synonym: resoundRUDIMENTARY: In an early stage of development - possessing only arudimentary, knowledge of physics.Synonym: incipientRUE(adj.: RUEFUL): To be sorry for-He willruethe day he left home.Synonyms: regret, repentSACROSANCT: Very holy - a shrine.regardedassacrosanct.Synonyms: consecrated, inviolable,hallowedSAGACIOUS(noun: SAGACITY): Wise; shrewd - proved to besagaciousin his judgment.Synonyms: perspicacious, astute, sapient, discerning, sageSALLOW: Sick - asallowcomplexion.Synonym: pallidAntonyms: rubicund, ruddy, floridSALLY: (verb): To rush forth suddenly -salliedout to meet the enemy.(noun): A Witty remark - amused the audience with hissalliesagainst his opponent.Synonyms: quip, banterSANCTIMONIOUS: Pretending to be religious - showed his hypocrisy in asanctimoniousdisplay of piety.SANGUINARY: Bloody - asanguinarybattle.Synonym: gorySANGUINE: Of a hopeful disposition; blood-red in color - a perennial optimist,sanguinein temperament.Synonyms: buoyant, ardentSARTORIAL: Pertaining to a tailor or clothes - a picture ofsartorialperfection.SATELLITE:(1) An attentive or flattering follower - a prince surrounded by manysatellites.Synonyms: lackey, toady, disciple, adherent; adj., fawning, obsequious, partisan(2) A country influenced or controlled by another - Freedom is conspicuouslyabsent ,inthe Sovietsatellites.(3) A body (natural or artificial) which revolves around a larger body, generally a planet - The moon is the only naturalsatelliteof the earth, but in recent years it has been joined by many artificialsatellites.SCINTILLA: A trace; a particle - not ascintilla ofconvincing evidence.Synonyms: iota; vestigeSCOURGE(verb): Topunish severely; to afflict; to whip - a disease thatscourgedthe country.Synonyms:excoriate, flay(noun). Awhip or other meansofpunishment; a cause of affliction - The Black Plague was a dreadfulscourgeof theMiddleAges.Synonym: tribulationSCRUTINIZE: To examine carefully-scrutinizedthe contents of the letter.SHIBBOLETH: A party slogan - ashibbolethdesigned to attract votes.SIMPER(verb):To smile in a silly or affected waysimpered ashe greeted each guest.(noun): An affected or silly smile - stood nervously, asimperon his face.Synonym:(verb andnoun) smirkSINECURE: Employment entailing little or no responsibility or labor - His job was asinecure.SINISTER: Threatening or showing evil; dishonest - thesinisterlookof a gangster.SLEAZY: Flimsy and cheap -sleazycloth which is used only in cheap garments.Synonym:unsubstantialSLOVENLY: Untidy-severely criticized the student'sslovenlyappearance.Synonyms: slipshod, slatternly,frowzySOPORIFIC: Tending to induce sleep - a poorly written novel,soporificin effect.SORDID: Mean and base; filthy- Sordidmotives breed selfish actions.Synonyms: degraded, vile, ignobleSOVEREIGN: Supreme m power and authority; independent of the control of any other government - possessing sovereign powers;asovereignstate.Synonyms: autonomous, imperial, majestic, paramountSPORADIC: Occurring singly, at irregular intervals; scattered- sporadiccases of illness.SPURN: To refuse or reject with contempt - an offer that wasspurnedinstantly.Synonyms: repel, snubSTOIC: Indifferent, calm in bearing pain or pleasure;practisingremarkable self-control over emotions - maintained astoicattitude despite all his trials.Synonyms: stolid, impassiveSTRINGENT: Strict; compelling, constrainingstringentregulations;stringentrequirements.Synonyms: exacting, rigidAntonym: laxSTUPENDOUS: Amazing by, virtue of its immense size, force, or any quality in exceptional degree - The circus is astupendousspectacle.Synonyms:astounding, prodigious, monstrous, marvelous, colossal, awfulSUCCULENT: juicy - asucculentsteak.Antonyms; desiccated, vapidSULTRY: Close, hot, and moist -sultrytropical weather.SUPINE:(1) Lying flat on the back - resting in asupineposition.Antonym: erect(2) Inert, inactive, averse to taking action - asupine, ineffective administrator.Synonyms: listless, torpidTANGIBLE: Real; actual -tangiblegains which may be seen.andcounted.Synonyms: material, veritable, perceptible, substantialTANTAMOUNT: Equivalent - an act that istantamountto treason.TAUNT(verb).To reproach with contempt -tauntedhim with the charge of failure to act promptly.Synonyms: mock, twit, gibe, sneer, deride(noun):An insulting, jeering, or bitter remark - hurledtauntsat his foes.TEEMING: In abundance, fertile, highly productive - theteemingtropics, rank with vegetation.Synonyms: swarming, fruitful, fecund, aboundingTEMERITY: Unwise or reckless boldness - leaped into battle with thoughtlesstemerity.Synonyms: audacity, presumptuousness, effrontery, rashness;(adj.)temerarious, foolhardy, venturesomeAntonyms: prudence, circumspection, warinessTEMPORAL: Worldly, as opposed to spiritual; existing for a time only - a man preoccupied withtemporalmatters.Synonyms: mundane, secular, civilTEMPORIZE: To delay or refuse to commit oneself in order to gain time -temporizedwhile his friends hurried to his aid.Synonym: equivocateTENET: A principle of belief held as true - atenetof religion which be maintained loyally.Synonyms: creed, doctrine, dogmaTENUOUS: Slender; not substantial; of slight importance - clung desperately to histenuoushope.TRANQUIL: Calm; peaceful - atranquilsummer night.Synonyms: placid, sereneAntonyms: perturbed, ruffled, turbulentTRANSGRESS: To break a law or command; to violate a moral principle; to overstep a moral bound or limit -transgressedthe bounds of decency; transgressed the law.TREMULOUS: Trembling -tremulouswith fright.Synonym: quiveringTRIVIAL: Of little - importance - atrivialoffense.Synonym: paltryAntonyms: gross, momentousTRUCULENT(noun: TRUCULENCE): Cruel, fierce; harsh; threatening or intimidating savagely - a dispute marked by atruculentattitude on both sides.TURGID:(1) Swollen, inflated -turgidrivers overflowing their banks.Synonyms: bloated, distended(2) Using big or high-sounding words - aturgidprose style.Synonyms: pompous, bombastic,prolixUBIQUITOUS: Existing everywhere - The common cold is aubiquitouscomplaint.Synonyms: omnipresent, universalUNTENABLE: Incapable of being defended or held - withdrew the argument asuntenable.UTILITARIAN(adj.): Materially or practically useful - beautiful, but notutilitarian.VANQUISH: To subdue or conquer -an armyvanquishedwith heavy losses.VAUNT: To boast - proudlyvauntedhis strength.Synonyms: brag (noun: braggadocio, braggart), proclaimVENEER: A superficial appearance or show designed to impress one with superiority - pierced beneath his thinveneerof elegance.Synonym: glossVENERABLE: Deserving respect or reverence because of age - avenerableleader.VERNAL: Pertaining to spring-an array ofvernalflowers.Antonym: hibernal (wintry)VERSATILE: Able to do many things skillfully -versatilein all the arts.VICARIOUS: Taking the place of another; felt, received, or done in place of another - tookvicariouspleasure in his brother's victory.VICISSITUDE: A change from one condition to another, often unexpected - suffered manyvicissitudesof fortune.VIRAGO: A scolding or ill-tempered woman - My neighbor's wife is avirago.Synonyms: shrew, termagant, vixenVITUPERATE(noun: VITUPERATION; adj.: VITUPERATIVE): To scold or blame loudly, find fault with in abusive language - an angry man,vituperatingthe world.Synonyms: berate, revileWAIVE: To give up (privileges, etc.); to do without -waivedhis rights to the property.Synonyms: relinquish, forgo, forsakeWHIM(adj.: WHIMSICAL): A sudden notion or passing fancy -frequently acted on thewhimof the moment.Synonyms: caprice, vagary, crotchetWRITHE: To twist about (usually with pain) -writhedinagony on the floor.Synonyms: contort, squirmZEALOUS(noun: ZEALOT: fanatic): Full of enthusiasm or eagerness -azealousstudent, first in his class.Antonym: perfunctoryZENITH: The highest point - thezenithof his career.Synonyms: acme, apex, culmination, summitAntonym: nadir