Sunday, July 20, 2008

1853 Most Difficult Words

The words are given in bold. The meaning is given after the equal sign (=) following a word. We have used the US spellings. The British spelling of a word, when different from the US spelling, is given in bracket after BRITISH as shown for the word belabor below.

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

The page numbers are listed on the top right side of each page as




amphitheater (british = amphitheatre) = oval-shaped theater

anathema = curse, ban

annul = cancel, nullify

anodyne = pain soothing

anoint = consecrate, to apply oil, especially as a sacred rite

anonymity = state of being anonymous, having no name

antediluvian = ancient, obsolete, pre historic

antithesis = direct opposite

apathetic = unconcerned, indifferent

aphasia = inability to speak or use words

aphorism = maxim, old saying

aplomb = poise, confidence

apocryphal = a doubtful authenticity, not genuine, fictional

apostate = one who abandons one's faith

apotheosis = Deification, glorification

approbation = praise, official approval

archaic = Antiquated, from an earlier time

archipelago = group of islands

ardor (british = ardour) = great emotion or passion

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

arrogate = seize without right, to demand or claim arrogantly

ascendancy = powerful state

ascribe = to attribute

ashen = resembling ashes, or deathly pale

asinine = stupid

askance = to view with suspicion, scornfully

askew = crooked, tilted

aspersion = slander, false rumor, damaging report

assail = attack

assent = to express agreement

assiduous = hard-working, diligent, persistent

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

astringent = causing contraction, severe, harsh

asunder = apart, into different parts

atone = make amends for a wrong

august = noble, dignified, awe-inspiring, venerable

avow = declare

awry = crooked, askew, amiss

axiom = self-evident truth, premise, postulate

bacchanal = orgy, drunkenly festive

baleful = hostile, malignant, harmful with evil intentions

balk = hesitate, refuse, shirk, prevent

banal = trite, overly common

bane = poison, nuisance, something causing ruin

bastion = fort, fortification, stronghold

beguile = deceive, seduce, mislead

behemoth = monster, huge creature

beleaguer = besiege, to harass, plague

berate = to scold harshly

bestial = beast-like, brutal

bestow = to give as a gift, grant

bevy = group

bicker = quarrel, to have a petty argument

bilious = ill-tempered

bilk = swindle, cheat, defraud

blandish = to coax with flattering, grovel

blight = decay, afflict, destroy

blithe = Joyful, cheerful, or without appropriate thought

bombast = pompous speech

bourgeois = middle class

broach = bring up a topic of conversation

brusque = curt, rough and abrupt in manner

bulwark = fortification

burgeon = sprout or flourish

burly = husky, brawny

cabal = plot, a secret group seeking to overturn something

cadaver = corpse, dead body

cajole = encourage, coax, flatter

calumny = Slander, false and malicious accusation

canard = hoax, a lie

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

canvass = survey, examine thoroughly

capricious = fickle, impulsive, whimsical, without much thought

careen = swerve, to lean on one side

castigate = criticize, punish, chastise

cataclysm = catastrophe, disaster

cathartic = purgative, purifying, cleansing

catholic = universal, worldly

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

cavil = quibble, raise trivial objections

cede = transfer ownership, to surrender possession of something

censorious = condemning speech, severely critical

chagrin = shame, embarrassment, humiliation

chalice = goblet, cup

chary = cautious, watchful, extremely shy

cherubic = sweet, innocent

chicanery = trickery, fraud, deception

chide = scold, express disapproval

chimerical = imaginary, impossible

choleric = easily angered, short-tempered

circumlocution = roundabout expression

circumspect = cautious, wary

circumvent = evade, avoid, to go around

citadel = fortress or stronghold

clamor (british = clamour) = noisy outcry

cleave = to split or separate, to stick, adhere

clemency = forgiveness, merciful leniency

cloister = refuge, to confine, seclude

coalesce = combine, to grow together

coddle = to pamper, baby, treat indulgently

cogent = well-put, convincing, logically forceful

cognate = from the same source, related

cognomen = family name, any name, nickname

colloquy = conference

collusion = conspiracy, collaboration, complicity

commodious = spacious

complicity = guilt by association, knowing partnership in wrong doing

compunction = remorse, regret

concur = To agree

Cassette 1 Side B

conflagration = large fire, big, destructive fire

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

confound = bewilder, to baffle, perplex

congeal = solidify, as a liquid freezing, to become thick or solid

conjecture = hypothesis, speculation, prediction

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

consanguinity = related by blood, kinship

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

construe = interpret or to explain

continence = self-control, self-restraint

contrite = apologetic, deeply sorrowful and repentant for a wrong

contusion = A bruise

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

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

convoke = convene, summon, to call together

coquette = woman who flirts

corroborate = to confirm, verify

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

countenance = facial expression, to favor, support

cower = showing fear, to cringe in fear

crass = crude, unrefined

craven = cowardly

credence = Belief, acceptance of something as true or real

creed = Belief or principle

cringe = cower, to shrink in fear

culpable = blameworthy, guilty, responsible for wrong

cupidity = greed

curmudgeon = boor, cranky person

dally = procrastinate, to act playfully or waste time

debase = to degrade, or lower in quality or stature

debauch = to corrupt, seduce from virtue or duty

debutante = a girl debuting into society

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

decapitate = kill by beheading

deciduous = shedding leaves, short-lived, temporary

decorous = seemly, proper, tasteful, socially correct

decry = castigate, to belittle, openly condemn

deference = courteously yielding to another, respect, honor

defile = pollute, to make unclean or dishonor

deft = skillful, dexterous

defunct = extinct, no longer existing, dead

deleterious = harmful, destructive, detrimental

deluge = a flood, to submerge, overwhelm

demagogue = An unprincipled politician, leader

demean = to degrade, humiliate, humble

demur = take exception, to express doubts or objections

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

depravity = immorality, sinfulness

deprecate = belittle, disparage

deride = To ridicule, to mock, make fun of

desecrate = profane, to abuse something sacred

desiccate = dehydrate, to dry completely

despondent = depressed, feeling discouraged and dejected

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

diatribe = long denunciation, bitter verbal attack

dichotomy = a division into two parts

didactic = instructional

dilettante = amateur, dabbler

disabuse = correct, to free from a misconception

disburse = pay out

disconsolate = inconsolable, unable to be consoled, extremely sad

discrete = separate, distinct

discursive = rambling, wandering from topic to topic

disdain = to regard with scorn and contempt

disingenuous = deceptive, sly and crafty

disjointed = disconnected, incoherent, being separated

disparage = belittle, speak disrespectfully about

disparate = various, dissimilar, different in kind

disparity = difference, contrast, dissimilarity

dispirit = discourage, to dishearten, make dejected

dissipate = scatter

distend = swell, inflate, bloat

distraught = distressed, very worried

docile = domesticated, trained, tame

dotage = senility, mental decline

dour = sullen and gloomy, stern and severe

droll = amusing in a wry

dulcet = melodious, pleasant sounding

duplicity = deceit, treachery, dishonesty, double-dealing

duress = coercion, imprisonment

ebb = recede, to fade away

ebullient = exuberant, full of enthusiasm and high spirits

eclectic = joyful

edify = instruct morally and spiritually

efface = To obliterate

effrontery = insolence

effulgent = brilliant

elicit = provoke

elucidate = make clear, clarify

emaciated = underfed, gaunt

embroil = involve, cause to fall into disorder

emend = correct

encomium = warm praise

encumber = burden, to hinder, restrict motion

endemic = Peculiar to some specified country or people

enervate = weaken, sap strength from

engender = generate, to produce

enigmatic = puzzling, inexplicable

enjoin = urge, order, command

ennui = boredom, lack of interest and energy

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

entreat = plead, beg

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

epigram = saying, short, witty saying or poem

epithet = name, appellation, phrase

equine = pertaining to horses

erode = wear away, to diminish

errant = wandering, mistaken

eschew = avoid, to abstain from

espouse = to support or advocate

estranged = alienated, separated

euthanasia = mercy-killing

evanescent = fleeting, very brief, short-lived

evince = attest, demonstrate, to show clearly

2

Cassette 2 Side A

exacerbate = worsen

exasperate = irritate, vex

execrable = very bad, abominable, utterly detestable

exemplary = outstanding, serving as an example

exhort = strongly urge

exhume = uncover, to remove from a grave

exonerate = free from blame

exorcise = to expel evil spirits

expedient = advantageous, convenient, efficient

expiate = atone, make amends for

expunge = erase, eliminate completely

extenuate = To diminish the gravity or importance of

extol = praise highly

extraneous = not essential, unnecessary

extricate = Disentangle, free

exuberant = joyous, happy

exude = emit, ooze

exult = rejoice

facetious = joking, sarcastic, witty

facile = very easy

fallow = unproductive, unplowed

fastidious = meticulous, careful with details

fathom = understand, to measure the depth of

fatuous = inane, stupid

fealty = Loyalty

fecund = fertile, fruitful, productive

feign = pretend, give a false impression

fetid = foul-smelling, putrid, stinking

fickle = always changing one's mind

fidelity = Loyalty

filch = steal something of little value

filial = of a son or daughter

fitful = irregular

flagrant = outrageous, shameless

fledgling = just beginning, struggling

flippant = Having a light, pert, trifling disposition

florid = ruddy, with too much decoration

flout = to show disregard for the law or rules

foible = weakness, minor fault

foist = palm off a fake

foment = instigate

fortuitous = happening by luck, fortunate

foster = encourage

fracas = noisy fight

fraught = filled

frenetic = harried, neurotic

frond = bending tree

fulminate = denounce, menace

fulsome = excessive, insincere

furtive = stealthy

gainsay = to deny

gargantuan = large

garner = gather

garrulous = talkative, loquacious, wordy

gauche = awkward, crude

genre = kind, category

gibe = heckle

glib = insincere manner

glower = stare angrily

goad = encourage

gossamer = thin and flimsy

gouge = overcharge, scoop out

grimace = expression of disgust

grovel = crawl, obey

guile = deceit, trickery

hackneyed = trite

hapless = unlucky

harangue = a pompous speech

harbinger = forerunner

haughty = arrogant

hedonism = the pursuit of pleasure in life

heinous = shocking, wicked

hermetic = airtight, sealed

hew = to cut with an ax

hiatus = interruption

hone = sharpen

illimitable = limitless

imbue = infuse, dye, wet

immure = build a wall around

impair = injure

impassive = calm, without feeling

impeccable = faultless

impecunious = indigent, having no money

imperious = domineering

impertinent = insolent, rude

imperturbable = calm

impervious = Impenetrable

impetuous = quick to act without thinking

implausible = unlikely, inconceivable

impolitic = unwise

importune = urgent request

impregnable = totally safe from attack

impugn = criticize

inadvertent = unintentional

inane = vacuous, stupid

incandescent = brilliant

incarcerate = to put in a jail

incendiary = burning easily, flammable

inchoate = just begun

incipient = beginning to exist

incisive = keen, penetrating

incognito = disguised

incommunicado = unable to communicate with others

incontrovertible = Indisputable

inculcate = instill, indoctrinate, to teach

incumbent = obligatory, required

incursion = raid

indict = charge with a crime

indigenous = Native

indigent = very poor

indolent = lazy

indomitable = invincible, fearless

indubitable = unquestionable

inexorable = relentless, inflexible

Cassette 2 Side B

infallible = incapable of making a mistake

infernal = hellish

infirmity = ailment, disease

ingrate = ungrateful person

ingratiate = pleasing, flattering, endearing

inimical = adverse, hostile, unfriendly

innocuous = Harmless

innuendo = indirect and subtle criticism

inscrutable = cannot be fully understood

insinuate = to suggest, imply, say indirectly

insipid = flat, dull, lacking flavor

insolent = insulting

insular = narrow-minded, isolated

insuperable = insurmountable

insurgent = rebellious

insurrection = uprising, rebellion

inter = bury

interdict = prohibit

interloper = intruder, meddler in others' affairs

interminable = unending

internecine = mutually destructive

intransigent = uncompromising

intrepid = fearless

inundate = flood

invective = verbal insult

inveigh = to rail against, protest strongly

inveterate = habitual, chronic, long-standing

invidious = incurring ill-will

irascible = irritable

itinerant = Wandering, unsettled

jaded = spent, bored with one's situation

juggernaut = unstoppable force

kismet = fate

knell = sound of a funeral bell

lachrymose = tearful

lampoon = satirize, to attack with satire

larceny = theft of property

largess = generous donation

legerdemain = trickery

levity = Frivolity, humor

libertine = one without moral restraint

licentious = lewd, immoral

limpid = transparent, clearly understood

lissome (british = lissom) = agile, supple

lithe = moving and bending with ease

loathe = abhor, hate

loquacious = Talkative

lugubrious = sad, sorrowful

lurid = glowing, shocking

macabre = gruesome

machination = plot or scheme

maelstrom = whirlpool, agitated state of mind

malapropism = comical misuse of a word

malcontent = one who is forever dissatisfied

malediction = curse

malefactor = evildoer, culprit

malodorous = fetid, foul-smelling

manifold = multiple, diverse

martial = warlike, pertaining to the military

martinet = strict disciplinarian

masochist = one who enjoys pain

maudlin = weepy, sentimental

maverick = a person who resists adherence to a group

mawkish = sickeningly sentimental

meander = to wander aimlessly without direction

mendicant = beggar

mercurial = changeable, volatile, quick

mettle = courage, capacity for bravery

minatory = threatening

mirth = jollity, laughter

miscreant = one who behaves criminally

missive = letter or note

modicum = a small amount

mollify = to calm or make less severe

moot = disputable, previously decided

mordant = biting, sarcastic

mores = moral standards, customs

moribund = near death

mote = speck, small particle

motley = diverse, many colored

multifarious = diverse, many-sided

munificent = generous

myriad = innumerable

nascent = incipient, coming into existence

natal = related to birth

necromancy = sorcery, black magic

Nemesis = implacable foe, often victorious opponent

neologism = new word or expression

neophyte = beginner

nether = located under or below

nettle = irritate

niggardly = stingy

noisome = harmful, stinking

nonentity = person of no significance

obdurate = unyielding

obeisance = homage, deference

obfuscate = bewilder, muddle, to confuse

oblique = indirect

obliterate = destroy

obloquy = slander, abusive language

obsequious = fawning, servile, overly submissive

obsequy = funeral ceremony

obstinate = stubborn

obstreperous = noisy, unruly, troublesome

obtuse = stupid, dull

occlude = block, to shut

odious = despicable, hateful

onerous = burdensome

opprobrious = abusive, disgraceful

ordain = appoint

ossify = harden

ostensible = apparent, seeming

ostentatious = pretentious, showy

overweening = arrogant, forward

3

Cassette 3 Side A

pacifist = one who opposes all violence

paean = a song of praise

palaver = babble, nonsense

pall = to become dull or weary

palliate = to make less serious, ease

pallid = pale, sallow, lacking color or liveliness

palpable = touchable, obvious, real

paltry = scarce, pitifully small or worthless

panache = flamboyance, flair

pandemic = spread over a whole area or country

panegyric = praise

panoply = full suit of armor

paragon = model of excellence or perfection

pariah = outcast

parley = conference, discussion

parry = avert, ward off, reflect

partisan = supporter

pathos = emotion, feeling of sadness

patrician = aristocrat

patrimony = inheritance or heritage derived from one's father

peccadillo = a minor fault

pedagogue = dull, formal teacher

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

pejorative = insulting, having bad connotations

pellucid = transparent, easily understood

penance = voluntary suffering to repent for a wrong

penchant = inclination

penitent = repentant

pensive = sad

perdition = damnation, complete ruin

peremptory = dictatorial

perennial = enduring, lasting

perfidious = treacherous ( of a person )

perfunctory = careless, done in a routine way

peripatetic = moving from place to place

pernicious = destructive

pert = flippant, bold

pertinacious = persevering

pertinent = Relevant, applicable

philistine = barbarian, narrow-minded person

phlegmatic = sluggish, someone who is calm

pillory = punish by ridicule

pique = sting, arouse interest

pithy = concise, to the point

pittance = alms, trifle

placid = Serene, calm

platitude = trite remark, stale

plebeian = common, vulgar

plethora = overabundance

poignant = pungent, sharp, emotionally moving

polemic = a controversy

portend = omen

portly = large, dignified

potentate = sovereign, king

prattle = chatter, foolish talk

precept = principle, law

precipice = cliff, edge

precipitous = steep

precocious = advanced

precursor = forerunner

predilection = inclination, preference

premeditate = plan in advance

preponderance = predominance

preposterous = ridiculous, illogical

presage = omen, indicate in advance

privation = lack of usual necessities or comforts

probity = integrity, complete honesty

proclivity = inclination, tendency

prodigal = wasteful

prodigious = marvelous, enormous

profligate = licentious, prodigal, corrupt

progenitor = ancestor

progeny = children

prognosis = forecast

prognosticate = foretell

prolix = long-winded, wordy

promontory = headland, cape

promulgate = publish, disseminate

propensity = inclination

propinquity = nearness, kinship

propitiate = satisfy, to win over

propitious = auspicious, favorable

prosaic = uninspired, flat, dull

proscribe = prohibit, to condemn

proselytize (british = proselytise) = recruit, convert

protean = changing readily

protract = To prolong, extend

provident = having foresight, thrifty

prude = puritan

prudent = cautious, careful

prurient = exhibiting lewd desires

puerile = Childish

pugnacious = combative, quarrelsome

pulchritude = beauty

punctilious = careful in observing rules of behavior or ceremony

pungent = sharp smell or taste

purport = claim to be

pusillanimous = cowardly

quaff = to drink heartily

quagmire = difficult situation

quandary = dilemma, difficulty

quell = suppress, allay

querulous = complaining

quibble = to argue about insignificant and irrelevant details

quiescent = still, motionless, at rest

Quixotic = impractical, romantic

raconteur = story teller

rampant = unbridled, raging

rancor (british = rancour) = resentment, dislike

rant = rage, scold

rapacious = grasping, avaricious, greedy

rapprochement = reconciliation

raze = destroy

recalcitrant = resisting authority or control

Cassette 3 Side B

recant = retract a statement

recidivism = habitual criminal activity

recondite = known to only a few

recreant = coward, betrayer of faith

refractory = obstinate

regal = royal

relegate = assign to an inferior position

renege = break a promise

replete = complete

reprehensible = blameworthy, unacceptable

reproach = blame

reprobate = morally unprincipled person

reprove = to criticize or correct

repudiate = to reject as having no authority

requiem = rest, a mass for the dead

requite = to return in kind

rescind = revoke, cancel

respite = interval or relief

resplendent = shining, splendid

restitution = act of compensating for loss or damage

restive = nervous, uneasy

retort = quick replay

retrench = reorganize, to regroup

retrieve = reclaim

retrograde = regress

revelry = merrymaking

revere = honor

revile = to criticize with harsh language

revulsion = aversion

ribald = coarse, vulgar

rife = widespread, abundant

risque = off-color, racy

rostrum = stage for public speaking

ruminate = reflect upon

rustic = rural

sacrosanct = sacred

sagacious = wise

sallow = sickly yellow in color

sanguine = cheerful

sapient = wise, shrewd

sardonic = scornful

saunter = walk in a leisurely manner

savant = scholar

schism = a division or separation

scintilla = very small amount

scintillate = sparkle

scoff = ridicule

scurrilous = abusive, insulting

secular = worldly, nonreligious

sedition = treason, resistance to authority

sententious = concise, trying to appear wise

sequester = to remove or set apart

seraphic = angelic, pure

serendipity = making fortunate discoveries

servile = slavish, obedient

simian = monkey like

simper = smile foolishly, smirk

sinecure = well paid position with little responsibility

skulk = sneak about

slake = to calm down or moderate

sloth = laziness

slovenly = sloppy

sobriety = composed

sobriquet = nickname

sodden = soaked

sojourn = trip, visit

solace = consolation

solecism = ungrammatical construction

solicitous = considerate, concerned

soliloquy = A monologue

solstice = furthest point

somber (british = sombre) = Gloomy

somnambulist = sleepwalker

somnolent = Sleepy

soporific = sleep inducing

sordid = foul, ignoble, dirty and unpleasant

spawn = produce

specious = false but plausible

sporadic = occurring irregularly

sportive = playful

spurn = reject

squalid = filthy

staid = demure, sedate, boring

steadfast = loyal, immovable

stentorian = extremely loud

stigma = mark of disgrace

stilted = formal, stiff, unnatural

stoic = indifferent to pain or pleasure

stolid = impassive

stratagem = trick

stricture = negative criticism

stultify = inhibit, enfeeble

stymie = hinder, thwart

suave = smooth

sublimate = to repress impulses

sublime = lofty, excellent

subterfuge = cunning, ruse

succulent = juicy, delicious

sully = stain

supercilious = arrogant

supplant = replace

surly = rude, crass

surmise = to guess

surmount = overcome

surreptitious = secretive

sustenance = supplying the necessities of life

swarthy = dark (as in complexion)

Sybarite = pleasure-seeker, lover of luxury

sycophant = flatterer, flunky

taciturn = who does not talk much

talon = claw of an animal

tantamount = equivalent

tawdry = gaudy, cheap

temerity = boldness

4

Cassette 4 Side A

ample = enough, specious, abundant

amplify = enlarge, increase, intensify

ancillary = supplementary, subsidiary, subordinate

anomaly = deviation from the rule, irregularity

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

artisan = a skilled handicraftsman

authoritarian = dictator, extremely strict, bossy

autocrat = dictator or a high ranking government officer

bifurcated = divided into two branches, forked

blatant = glaring, obvious, showy

bountiful = abundant, plentiful

brazen = bold, shameless, impudent

breach = breaking of a rule, agreement, or law

caricature = cartoon, exaggerated portrait

carnivorous = meat-eating

catalyst = something that causes change without being changed

centripetal = tending toward the center

chaotic = in utter disorder

chauvinist = a man who thinks men are better than women

complement = To make complete, perfect

composure = Calmness of appearance

compress = to reduce, squeeze

constituent = electorate, component, part

constraint = something that limits what you can do

correlation = mutual relationship, association

corrugate = to wrinkle or draw into folds

depose = testify, to remove from a high position

depreciate = To lessen the worth of

determinate = Definitely limited or fixed, conclusive

dexterous = skillful, adroit

dwindle = To diminish or become less

earthy = crude

entity = being, existence

equity = impartiality, justice

equivocal = Ambiguous, open to two interpretations

eulogy = high praise

exotic = Foreign, romantic

extemporaneous = unrehearsed

fabricate = construct

fallible = Capable of erring

felicitous = very appropriate, pertinent

flair = a natural aptitude

flaunt = to show off

flora = plants

fraudulent = Counterfeit

fusion = union, coalition

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

heterogeneous = composed of unlike parts, different

hypothetical = theoretical, speculative

immune = Exempt, as from disease

imprudent = unwise

inception = The beginning

inconsequential = Valueless

indefatigable = never getting tired

indicative = suggestive, implying

indisputable = not disputed, unquestioned

infantile = childish, immature

ingenuous = naïve and unsophisticated

injurious = harmful

innovate = to invent, modernize

integrity = decency, honest, wholeness

intermittent = starting and stopping

introspective = looking within oneself

introvert = To turn within

invoke = request assistance or protection

iota = A small mark or part

irreverent = disrespectful

jaundice = disease of yellowish discoloration of skin

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

laudable = Praiseworthy

lexicon = A dictionary

litigation = lawsuit

lunar = related to the moon

luscious = Rich, sweet, and delicious

metaphor = figure of speech comparing two different things

microcosm = The world on a small scale

migratory = Wandering from place to place with the seasons

mishap = Misfortune

mnemonic = related to memory

monotony = A lack of variation

omnivorous = eating everything

opportunist = One who takes advantage of circumstances

orifice = a small opening

overt = open to view

paradox = seemingly in contradiction

parasite = one who lives at another's expense

patent = the right to make or sell a new invention

pediatrician (british = paediatrician) = a child doctor

perusal = reading carefully

plenitude = Abundance

polyglot = Speaking several tongues

propagate = To spread

reactionary = related to, or favoring reaction

reciprocate = To give and take mutually

regimen = government rule, systematic plan

rehabilitate = To restore to a former status

reminiscence = remembrance of past events

renegade = rebel, dissident

resilient = the quality of springing back

retroactive = applying to an earlier time

sensual = related to the physical senses

strident = rough, harsh, caustic, loud

subliminal = subconscious, imperceptible

superannuated = retired

Cassette 4 Side B

superficial = shallow and phony

supple = Easily bent

synchronous = happening at the same time

tainted = contaminated, corrupt

talisman = an object supposed to bring good luck

theocracy = government by the priests

therapeutic = medicinal

tortuous = with bends or turns

transcend = To surpass

transmute = To change in nature or form

tribute = a gift or statement showing respect

turbulence = violent agitation

unobtrusive = inconspicuous, not blatant

vent = small opening, outlet

verisimilitude = appearance of being true

versatile = adaptable, all-purpose

vicarious = substitute, surrogate

viscous = sticky, gluey, thick

warranty = guarantee of a product's soundness

wax = increase, grow

weather = endure the effects of weather or other forces

yoke = join together, unite

temporal = limited by time, secular, not lasting forever

tenacious = persistent

tendentious = biased

tenet = doctrine, principle

tensile = capable of being stretched

tenuous = thin, insubstantial

tepid = lukewarm

terse = concise, brief

tether = tie down, tie with a rope

thrall = slave

thwart = to block or prevent from happening

timorous = fearful, timid

tirade = scolding speech

toady = fawner, sycophant

torpid = lethargic, inactive

transient = fleeting, temporary

translucent = clear, lucid, almost transparent

travesty = caricature, farce, parody

trenchant = incisive, penetrating

trepidation = fear

trite = commonplace, insincere

truculent = fierce, savage, tending to argue a lot

truism = self-evident truth

tryst = meeting, rendezvous

tumult = commotion

turbid = muddy, clouded

turgid = Swollen, not flowing

turpitude = Depravity, evil

tyro = beginner

umbrage = resentment

unctuous = insincere

unkempt = messy in appearance

unsullied = spotless

usurp = seize, to appropriate

usury = overcharge, lending money at illegal rates of interest

vacillate = To waver

vacuous = inane, empty, not showing intelligence or purpose

vapid = vacuous, insipid

venal = willing to do wrong for money

vendetta = grudge, feud

venerable = respected because of age

verdant = green, lush

vex = annoy, to irritate

vicissitude = changing fortunes

vie = compete

vignette = scene, decorative design

vilify = defame

vindicate = free from blame

virile = manly

virulent = deadly, poisonous

vitiate = spoil, ruin

vitriolic = scathing, burning

vociferous = adamant, clamoring

volition = free will

voluminous = bulky, extensive, or great quantity

wallow = indulge, luxuriate

wan = sickly pale

wane = dissipate, wither

wary = guarded, careful

welter = confusion, hodgepodge

whet = stimulate, to sharpen

wily = shrewd, clever

winsome = charming

wizened = shriveled

wraith = ghost

wry = twisted, amusing

zephyr = gentle breeze, west wind

5

Cassette 5 Side A

amphibian = creature that lives on land and water

anachronism = Anything occurring or existing out of its proper time

angular = Sharp-cornered or sharp angled

anthropomorphous = Nonhuman having or resembling human form or quality

apothegm = a short saying

appraise = assess, evaluate the value

arable = suitable for cultivation

asperity = roughness of temper

assay = to analyze or estimate

audit = formal examination of final records

augury = prophecy or prediction of events

aver = to declare to be true

aversion = intense dislike

aviary = cage where birds are kept

banter = to tease playfully and in good humor

beatific = supremely happy, angelic, saintly

benighted = un enlightened

benison = Blessing

blanch = bleach, whiten, to take the color out

bludgeon = to hit someone several times with a heavy object

bolster = To support or make something strong

burnish = To make brilliant or shining

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

carnal = of the flesh, sensual

carp = to find faults, complain constantly

cavalcade = a procession or sequence

celerity = quick moving or acting

cession = Surrender, as of possessions or rights

champ = to chew noisily

chastise = to criticize or punish someone

chattel = piece of personal property

churlish = rude, ungracious

circumscribe = To confine within bounds

clairvoyant = who can see the future, having ESP

collate = to sort or put in proper order

complaisant = Agreeable, friendly

consequential = important

contumacious = rebellious

cuisine = cookery, style of cooking

culmination = climax, final stage

curator = in charge of a library or museum

daunt = to frighten, subdue

declivity = a place that declines or slopes downwards

deranged = insane, delirious, maniacal

derivative = copied or adapted, not original

descry = To discern, to discover or reveal

diffidence = shyness, lack of confidence

dirge = lament with music, funeral hymn

discomfit = To put to confusion, discomfort

discordant = harsh-sounding, badly out of tune

dissimulate = to disguise

distaff = the female branch of a family

dolt = a stupid person

domineer = to rule over something in a tyrannical way

doughty = brave, dauntless

dross = waste matter, worthless impurities

dyspeptic = suffering from indigestion, gloomy and irritable

effluvium = noxious smells

effusive = expressing emotion without restraint

elation = exhilaration, joy

eloquence = fluent and effective speech

emollient = cream for softening, making supple

ensconce = to hide safely, settle comfortably

enunciate = verbalize, articulate

epilogue = The close of a narrative or poem

epitome = A simplified representation

equestrian = one who rides on horseback

excoriate = to denounce

exculpate = to clear of blame or fault

expatiate = to discuss in detail, elaborate

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

expurgate = to purify by removing obscenities

extrinsic = not inherent or essential, coming from without

extrovert = an outgoing person

fell = to chop, cut down

fervid = fervent, passionate

fetter = to restrain, to bind

finicky = meticulous, fussy

fissure = a crack or break

flaccid = limp, flabby, weak

flamboyant = Characterized by extravagance

fluster = confuse

forbearance = Patient endurance or toleration of offenses

forte = A strong point

fractious = wayward, unruly, disorderly

frenzied = feverishly fast, hectic

funereal = mournful, appropriate to a funeral

gall = bitterness, nerve

gambol = Playful leaping or frisking

gaunt = thin, emaciated

gustatory = relevant to the sense of tasting

hallow = to make holy

hoary = white, old

holocaust = widespread destruction

ignominious = Shameful

impious = not devout in religion

implacable = doubtful, dubious

improvident = lacking foresight or thrift

incarnadine = blood-red in color

indenture = bound to another by contract

interstice = a small space between things

iridescent = showing many colors

jettison = to throw overboard, abandon

jingoism = extremely aggressive and militant patriotism

lackadaisical = Listless, idle

languor = Lassitude of body or depression

lapidary = relating to precious stones

latitude = freedom from narrow limitations

lionize = treat as a celebrity

loiter = dawdle, loaf

lull = moment of calm

Cassette 5 Side B

maritime = Situated on or near the sea

megalomania = mental state with delusions of wealth and power

mendacious = Untrue

meretricious = Alluring by false or gaudy show

molt = to shed hair, skin periodically

monastic = related to monks

morbid = abnormally gloomy

naiveté = a lack of worldly wisdom

nihilism = a belief in nothing, extreme skepticism

nomadic = moving from place to place

non sequitur = an irrelevant conclusion

nuptial = relating to marriage

objurgate = to chide, scold

opalescent = iridescent, displaying colors

ornithologist = scientist who studies birds

orotund = pompously said

palette = board for mixing paints

pastiche = imitation of another's style

patricide = murder of one's own father

peculation = theft of money or goods

pediment = triangular gable on a roof or façade

penumbra = partial shadow in an eclipse

permeable = penetrable

philology = study of words

plaintiff = injured person in a lawsuit

plangent = plaintive, resounding sadly

politic = expedient, prudent, well devised

potable = suitable for drinking

presentiment = sense of foreboding

primordial = existing at the beginning, rudimentary

pummel = beat, attack

putrid = dirty, rotten

quintessence = The most essential part of anything

ramshackle = dilapidated, falling to pieces

ratiocination = reasoning

raucous = Harsh sounding

ravenous = extremely hungry

rectitude = moral uprightness

refectory = dining hall

remediable = capable of being corrected

remonstrate = to protest or object

retinue = group of attendants

rococo = ornate, highly decorated

roil = to disturb or cause disorder

salubrious = healthy

serenity = calm, peacefulness

serrated = toothed, with a zigzag edge

sinuous = Curving in and out

slough = to discard or shed

sluggard = lazy, inactive person

sophist = person good at arguing deviously

sophomoric = immature and overconfident

staccato = marked by abrupt, clear-cut sounds

succinct = Concise

synthetic = artificial, imitation

threnody = a sad poem or song, dirge

tremulous = trembling, fearful

tundra = treeless plain found in Arctic or sub arctic regions

upbraid = to scold sharply

vagrant = An idle wanderer

variegated = many-colored

vaunted = boasted, bragged

veracious = truthful, accurate

verity = Truth

vernal = related to spring

wrangle = loud quarrel

6

Cassette 6 Side A

abase = lower, humiliate

abash = humiliate, embarrass

abdicate = give up power or position

abeyance = postponement, temporary suspension

abhor = detest, loathe

abjure = renounce, to formally reject or abandon

ablution = cleansing, washing

abortive = unsuccessful, interruptive while incomplete

abrogate = cancel, to abolish by authority

absolve = acquit, to forgive or free from blame

abstruse = difficult to comprehend

abut = touch, border on

abysmal = deficient, sub par

accede = yield, express approval, agree to

acclimate = accustom oneself to a climate

acclivity = ascent, incline

accolade = applause, praise

accost = to approach and speak to someone

accouter (british = accoutre) = equip

acme = summit, highest point

acquiesce = to agree, comply passively

acrid = harsh, bitter, pungent, caustic

acrimonious = caustic, bitter

actuate = induce, start

acumen = sharpness of insight

adamant = insistent, uncompromising, unyielding

adduce = offer as example

adjunct = addition, something added, attached, or joined

admonish = warn gently, caution, or reprimand

adroit = skillful, accomplished, highly competent

adulation = applause, high praise

advent = arrival

adventitious = accidental

aegis = that which protects

affect = influence

affray = public brawl

agape = openmouthed, wonder

aggrandize = exaggerate, to make larger or greater in power

aghast = horrified

alacrity = swiftness, speed, cheerful willingness, eagerness

allay = to reassure; to lessen, ease, or soothe

allege = assert without proof

allegory = fable, symbolic representation

alliteration = repetition of the same sound

allude = refer to indirectly

amenable = agreeable

amiss = wrong, out of place

amity = Friendship

amorous = strongly attracted to love; showing love

amorphous = shapeless

amortize = to diminish by installment payments

amuck = murderous frenzy

anarchist = terrorist

animadversion = critical remark

animus = hate

annals = historical records

apocalyptic = ominous, doomed

apoplexy = stroke

appall (british = appal) = horrify

apparition = phantom

appellation = title, name

apposite = apt

apropos = Appropriate

arbiter = judge

archetype = original model

argot = slang

aria = operatic song

array = arrangement

arroyo = gully

artifice = trick

aseptic = sterile

atelier = workshop

avuncular = like an uncle

azure = sky blue

badger = To pester

badinage = banter, teasing conversation

bagatelle = nonentity, trifle

bandy = discuss lightly

bard = poet

baroque = ornate

bask = take pleasure in, sun

bauble = A trinket, trifle

beatitude = state of bliss

begrudge = resent, envy

beholden = in debt

bereft = deprived of

beset = harass, surround

besmirch = slander, sully

bicameral = having two legislative branches

bivouac = encampment

blase = bored with life

bode = portend

bogus = forged, false

brackish = salty

bucolic = rustic

burlesque = farce

cache = hiding place

cadaverous = haggard

callow = inexperienced

canine = pertaining to dogs

captious = fond of finding fault in others

carafe = bottle

cardinal = chief

Cassette 6 Side B

carrion = decaying flesh

cascade = small waterfall

casuistry = clever argument to trick people

cauterize (british = cauterise) = to sear

chafe = abrade

chaste = pure, virgin

chasten = castigate

cipher = zero

cleft = split

clique = a small group

cloven = split

codicil = supplement to a will

cogitate = ponder

cognizant = aware

cohere = To stick together

cohort = an associate

comport = to conduct oneself

conch = spiral shell

concordat = Agreement

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

condiment = seasoning

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

coniferous = bearing cones

consort = spouse

contagion = infectious agent

contingent = conditional

contort = twist

controvert = dispute

cordon = bond, chain

corollary = consequence

corpulent = fat

cortege = procession

coruscate = sparkle

covenant = agreement, pact

crestfallen = dejected

crevice = crack

cruet = small bottle

cull = pick out, select

culvert = drain

curry = seek favor by flattery

cynosure = celebrity

dank = damp

dauntless = courageous

deadpan = expressionless

debonair = sophisticated, affable

decant = pour

decrepitude = enfeeblement

defamation = slander

deflect = turn aside

defray = pay

deign = condescend

delirium = mental confusion, ecstasy

delve = dig, explore (of ideas)

demeanor (british = demeanour) = behavior

demented = deranged

demure = sedate, reserved

denizen = dweller

denouement = resolution

deposition = testimony

depredation = preying on, plunder

derelict = negligent

desolate = forsaken

desuetude = disuse

dialectic = pertaining to debate

diminution = Reduction

disconcert = confuse

discretion = prudence

dishevel = muss

disinter = unearth

disinterested = Impartial

disputatious = fond of arguing

disquisition = elaborate treatise

dissolute = profligate, immoral

dissonance = Discord

distrait = preoccupied, absent-minded

doggerel = poor verse

dolorous = gloomy

dregs = residue, riffraff

drone = speak in a monotonic voice

duenna = governess

ecclesiastical = churchly

eclat = brilliance

educe = draw forth, evoke

effete = worn out

effusion = pouring forth

elegiac = sad

emblazon = imprint, brand

embryonic = rudimentary

emeritus = retired, but retaining title

enamored (british = enamoured) = charmed, captivated

enclave = area enclosed within another region

engross = captivate

epoch = era

escapade = adventure

eviscerate = disembowel

ex officio = by virtue of position

excision = removal

exegesis = interpretation

exigency = urgency

exiguous = scanty

expletive = oath

extant = existing

extirpate = seek out and destroy

extrude = force out

facet = aspect

factious = causing disagreement

factitious = artificial

factotum = handyman

faux pas = false step, mistake

febrile = feverish, delirious

ferment = turmoil

ferret = rummage through

fervor (british = fervour) = intensity

fester = decay

7

Cassette 7 Side A

festive = joyous

fete = to honor

fiat = decree

firebrand = agitator

flagellate = whip

flail = whip

foray = raid

fortitude = patience, courage

fret = worry

fritter = squander

frivolity = playfulness

fruition = realization, completion

galvanize = excite to action

gamut = range

garnish = decorate

genealogy = ancestry

genesis = beginning

genuflect = kneel in reverence

ghastly = horrible

glean = gather

gnome = dwarf-like being

gorge = stuff, satiate

gory = bloody

grapple = struggle

grisly = gruesome

guffaw = laughter

gusto = Keen enjoyment

guttural = throaty

haggard = gaunt

halcyon = serene

hale = healthy

hamper = obstruct

harbor (british = harbour) = give shelter, conceal

harridan = hag or an ugly old woman

harry = harass

heedless = careless

hegira = a journey to a more pleasant place

hibernal = wintry

histrionic = overly dramatic

homily = sermon

horde = group

hortatory = inspiring good deeds

hovel = shanty, cabin

hoyden = tomboy, boisterous girl

hubris = arrogance

hummock = knoll, mound

humus = soil

ichthyology = study of fish

idyllic = natural, picturesque

immolate = sacrifice

impale = pierce

impetus = stimulus, spark

impinge = encroach, touch

imponderable = difficult to estimate

imprimatur = sanction

impunity = exemption from harm

impute = charge

inalienable = that which cannot be taken away

incantation = chant

incapacitate = disable

inclement = harsh

incriminate = accuse

incubus = nightmare

ineffable = inexpressible

ineluctable = inescapable

infidel = nonbeliever

influx = inflow

infraction = violation

inimitable = peerless

iniquitous = unjust, wicked

inopportune = untimely

inordinate = excessive

insensate = without feeling

insouciant = nonchalant

insubordinate = disobedient

integument = a covering

inveigle = lure

irresolute = hesitant, uncertain

jejune = barren

jostle = push, brush against

ken = range of comprehension

knave = con man

knead = massage

lacerate = tear, cut

lackey = servant

laity = laymen

lambent = softly radiant

lave = wash

lax = loose, careless

lectern = reading desk

limn = portray, describe

litany = list

litotes = understatement for emphasis

lout = goon

lupine = wolf-like

luxuriant = lush

maim = injure

manacle = shackle

marauder = plunderer

masticate = chew

matriarch = matron

maul = rough up

mausoleum = tomb

mayhem = mutilation

medley = mixture

melee = riot

mellifluous = sweet sounding

menial = humble, degrading

mete = distribute

miasma = toxin

mien = appearance, demeanor

minion = subordinate

minutiae = trivia

mire = marsh

Cassette 7 Side B

miscegenation = intermarriage between races

miscellany = mixture of items

modish = chic

molten = melted

monolithic = large and uniform

mortify = humiliate

mottled = spotted

mountebank = charlatan

muffle = stifle, quiet

mulct = defraud

muse = ponder

muster = to gather one's forces

noncommittal = neutral, circumspect

nonplus = bring to a halt by confusion

nubile = marriageable

nugatory = useless, worthless

oaf = awkward person

obelisk = tall column, monument

obituary = eulogy

oblation = offering, sacrifice

obliquity = perversity

odoriferous = pleasant odor

offal = inedible parts of a butchered animal

offertory = church collection

ogle = flirt

onus = burden

opprobrium = disgrace

opus = literary work of musical composition

orison = prayer

paleontologist (british = palaeontologist) = one who studies fossils

palpitate = beat, throb

pandemonium = din, commotion

pander = cater to people's baser instincts

pantomime = mime

papyrus = paper

paramour = lover

parapet = rampart, defense

paroxysm = outburst, convulsion

parsimonious = stingy

parvenu = newcomer, social climber

passe = outmoded

pastoral = rustic

peculate = embezzle, steal

pedantic = bookish

pell-mell = in a confused manner

penurious = stingy

peregrination = wandering

perforce = by necessity

perigee = point when moon is nearest to the earth

perjury = lying

peroration = conclusion of an oration

petrify = calcify, shock

petty = trivial

petulant = irritable, peevish

picaresque = roguish, adventurous

pied = mottled, brindled

piquant = tart-tasting, spicy

platonic = nonsexual

plebiscite = referendum

plumb = measure

polity = methods of government

poltroon = coward

portend = signify, augur

prate = babble

preamble = introduction

preternatural = abnormal

prim = formal, prudish

primogeniture = first-born child

primp = groom

proboscis = snout

prod = urge

profusion = overabundance

propellant = rocket fuel

prophylactic = preventive

propound = propose

proscenium = platform, rostrum

prosody = study of poetic structure

provender = dry food, fodder

proviso = stipulation

puissant = strong

purblind = obtuse, dim-sighted

purgatory = limbo, netherworld

purloin = To steal

purview = range, understanding

putative = reputed

quail = shrink, cower

quaint = old-fashioned

qualms = misgivings

quarry = prey, game

quay = wharf

queasy = squeamish

quip = joke

quirk = eccentricity

quizzical = odd

quorum = majority

8

Cassette 8 Side A

rabid = mad, furious

raiment = clothing

rankle = cause bitterness, resentment

realm = kingdom, domain

reconnaissance = surveillance

recrimination = countercharge, retaliation

recumbent = reclining

redolent = fragrant

redoubtable = formidable, steadfast

redundant = repetitious

reek = smell

refraction = bending, deflection

regale = entertain

remiss = Negligent

remnant = residue, fragment

remorse = guilt

rend = to tear apart

render = deliver, provide

rendezvous = a meeting

rendition = version, interpretation

reparation = amends, atonement

repartee = witty conversation

repellent = causing aversion

repercussion = consequence

repine = fret

reprieve = temporary suspension

reprimand = rebuke

reprisal = retaliation

retaliate = revenge

retribution = reprisal

reverent = respectful

reverie = daydream

rigor = harshness

rime = white frost

risible = laughable

roseate = rosy, optimistic

roster = list of people

rout = vanquish

rubicund = ruddy, having healthy reddish color

ruffian = brutal person, bully

rummage = hunt

ruse = trick

sacerdotal = priestly

salutary = good, wholesome

sanctimonious = self-righteous

sang-froid = coolness under fire

sanguinary = gory, murderous

sapid = interesting

sarcophagus = stone coffin

sartorial = pertaining to clothes

sate = satisfy fully

saturnine = gloomy

satyr = demigod, goat-man

savoir-faire = tact, polish

savor (british = savour) = enjoy

scarify = criticize

scurry = move briskly

scuttle = to sink

sebaceous = like fat

seclusion = solitude

sedulous = diligent

seethe = fume, resent

semblance = likeness

senescence = old age

sepulcher (british = sepulchre) = tomb

sequacious = eager to follow, ductile

serried = saw-toothed

shibboleth = password

shoal = reef

shrew = virago

sidereal = pertaining to the stars

sinewy = fibrous, stringy

skinflint = miser

skittish = excitable

skullduggery (british = skulduggery) = trickery

slander = defame

sleight = dexterity

slither = slide

smattering = superficial knowledge

smirk = smug look

snivel = whine

solvent = financially sound

somatic = pertaining to the body

spasmodic = intermittent

spate = sudden outpouring

spectral = ghostly

splenetic = peevish

spry = nimble

spume = foam

stanza = division of a poem

stoke = prod, fuel

stratum = layer

stupor = lethargy

sub rosa = in secret

substantiate = verify

Cassette 8 Side B

substantive = substantial

succor (british = succour) = help, comfort

succumb = yield, submit

suffuse = pervade, permeate

sultry = sweltering

sunder = split

sundry = various

supernumerary = subordinate

suture = surgical stitch

sylvan = rustic

tantalize = tease

taper = candle

tarn = small lake

tarry = linger

taurine = bull-like

taut = tight, stretched

temperate = moderate

tempo = speed

tentative = provisional

tenure = status given after a period of time

terrapin = turtle

testy = petulant

thespian = actor

throes = anguish

throng = crowd

timbre = tonal quality, resonance

Titanic = huge

tithe = donate one-tenth

titular = in name only, figurehead

tocsin = alarm bell, signal

touchstone = standard

traduce = slander

travail = work, drudgery

tribunal = court

troglodyte = cave dweller

truckle = yield

tutelage = guardianship

tyranny = oppression

unassuming = modest

uncouth = uncultured, crude

undulate = surge, fluctuate

uniformity = sameness

unsavory (british = unsavoury) = distasteful, offensive

unscathed = unhurt

unseemly = unbecoming, improper

untenable = cannot be achieved

ursine = bear-like

uxorious = a doting husband

vagary = whim

vainglorious = conceited

valor (british = valour) = bravery

vanguard = leading position

vassal = subject

vehement = adamant

veneer = false front, façade

venial = excusable

venturesome = bold, risky

viand = food

victuals = food

visage = facial expression

viscid = thick, gummy

vitreous = glassy

vituperative = abusive

votary = fan, aficionado

vouchsafe = confer, bestow

vulpine = fox-like

waggish = playful

wastrel = spendthrift

waylay = ambush

wean = remove from nursing, break a habit

wheedle = coax

whimsical = capricious

wince = cringe

winnow = separate

wither = shrivel

wont = custom

wrath = anger, fury

wreak = inflict

wrest = snatch

writhe = contort

yen = desire

yore = long ago

9

Cassette 9 Side A

aberration = different from normal or usual

abettor = encourager

abnegation = repudiation, self-sacrifice

abominate = to hate

abrade = to rub off a surface

abstemious = Characterized by self denial or abstinence

accretion = grow in size or increase in amount

acerbity = bitterness of speech or temper

acetic = related to vinegar

acidulous = sour in taste or manner

acquiescence = Passive consent

acquittal = release from blame (as by a court)

actuarial = calculating

acuity = sharpness

addiction = compulsive, habitual need

addle = To make inefficient or unable to think

adjuration = solemn urging

adjure = to request solemnly

admonition = Genteelly point out mistake

agility = nimbleness

agitation = excitement, uneasiness

alimentary = supplying nourishment

allure = appeal, attract

allusion = indirect reference

alluvial = soil deposits left by rivers

amalgamate = To mix or join together to become one

amazon = female warrior

ambrosia = food of the Greek gods that provided immortal youth & beauty, anything sweet and pleasing

andirons = metal supports in a fireplace

anneal = to gradually heat and cool in order to soften, reduce brittleness

annuity = An annual payment or income

antecede = To precede

anthropoid = manlike

apiary = A place where bees are kept

apogee = The climax

apothecary = One who keeps drugs for sale and puts up prescriptions

appurtenances = subordinate possessions

aquiline = like an eagle, bent, booked, curved

arcade = a roofed passage between shops

archaeology = the study of ancient cultures by looking for and examining their buildings, tools

aromatic = fragrant

arrant = Notoriously bad

asceticism = doctrine of self-denial

assessment = estimation

astronomical = enormously large or extensive

athwart = across, opposition

aureole = sun's corona, halo

auroral = pertaining to the aurora borealis

auscultation = act of listening to the heart or lungs to discover abnormalities

austerity = quality of being self disciplined

baffle = to frustrate or unable to understand

bandanna = large, bright-colored handkerchief

barb = sharp projection from fishhook

barrage = a lot of questions or criticism

barter = to give in exchange rather than paying money

bassoon = reed instrument of the woodwind family

bate = let down, restrain

bawdy = indecent, obscene

bedizen = dress with vulgar finery

bedraggle = wet thoroughly

befuddle = confuse thoroughly

behoove = to be fit, to be right

benignant = Benevolent in feeling, character

bereavement = state of being deprived of something valuable or beloved

bete noire = aversion

betrothal = Engagement to marry

bibulous = Fond of drinking

bigotry = discrimination, prejudice

blasphemous = profane, impious

blazon = print or decorate something in a very noticeable way

blurt = to say something suddenly and without thinking, especially when you are excited or nervous

boorish = Rude

bouillon = clear beef soup

Bowdlerize = To expurgate in editing

braggadocio = someone who boasts

brazier = An open pan or basin for holding live coals

brindled = tawny or grayish with streaks or spots

brittle = Fragile

brocade = rich, gaudy fabric

brooch = a piece of jewelry for women which is fastened onto clothes with a pin

buffoonery = coarse jokes, etc

bugaboo = bugbear, object of baseless terror

bumptious = full of offensive self-conceit

bungle = to do something wrong in a very careless or stupid way

buskin = thick-soled half boot worn by actors of Greek tragedy

buxom = plump, vigorous, jolly

cameo = when someone famous appears for a short time in a film or play

canker = any ulcerous sore, any evil

canto = part of an extended poem

caparison = showy harnesser, ornamentation for a horse

caprice = A whim

carillon = a set of bells capable of being played

carmine = rich red

carousal = To drink deeply and in boisterous or jovial manner

carte blanche = complete freedom to do what you want

caryatid = sculptured column of a female figure

caste = one of the hereditary classes in Hindu society

catapult = slingshot

catechism = book for religious instruction

censor = to prohibit publication by law

centaur = mythical figure, half man and half horse

cerebration = thought

chaff = worthless products of an endeavor

chasm = a long, deep, narrow hole in rock or ice

chiropodist = one who treats disorders of the feet

chivalrous = courteous to ladies

Cassette 9 Side B

ciliated = having minute hairs, one-celled animal

circlet = small ring, band

clangor (british = clangour) = loud, resounding noise

clarion = shrill, trumpet like sound

clavicle = collarbone

climactic = relating to the highest point

clime = region, climate

coadjutor = assistant, colleague

cockade = decoration worn on hat

coeval = living at the same time as contemporary

cog = a spoke in a wheel, a small and unimportant person

cohesion = consistency

colander = utensil with perforated bottom used for straining

collage = a picture made by sticking small pieces of paper or other materials

collier = worker in coal mine, ship carrying coal

colossal = huge

comely = a woman who is attractive in appearance

comestible = something fit to be eaten

comeuppance = rebuke, one's deserved fate or punishment

comity = courteousness, civility

conclave = private meeting

condign = adequate, deservedly severe

connivance = pretence of ignorance of something wrong, assistance or permission to offend

connubial = related to marriage or matrimony

cormorant = greedy, rapacious bird

cornice = a decorative border around the walls of a room close to the ceiling

corsair = pirate ship

covetous = very desirous of something, avaricious, greedy

coy = shy, modest

cozen = cheat, hoodwink, swindle

crabbed = sour, peevish

credo = a set of beliefs

crepuscular = pertaining to twilight

crone = hag

crotchet = a fancy, a whim, an eccentricity

cul-de-sac = a blind alley, a trap

dappled = spotted

dastard = A base coward

daub = to paint carelessly, to smear

dawdle = to waste time by trifling, to move slowly

debenture = bond issued to secure a loan

decollete = having a low-necked dress

decrepit = Enfeebled, as by old age or some chronic infirmity

deducible = derived by reasoning

defalcate = to misuse money put in trust

defection = desertion

deify = To regard as a god

deliquescent = capable of absorbing moisture from air and becoming liquid

delusion = Mistaken conviction

delusive = deceptive, raising vain hopes

demesne = domain

demolition = destruction

demoniacal = related to evil spirits, devilish

denotation = the exact literary meaning of a word, designation, definition

depilate = remove hair

derision = Ridicule

dermatologist = one who studies the skin and its diseases

descant = discuss fully

desideratum = that which is desired

despoil = to bereave, rob, plunder, strip of possessions

despotism = Any severe and strict rule

detergent = cleansing agent

detonation = explosion

devolve = to roll down, to hand down

diadem = crown

dint = means, effort

dipsomaniac = a person having an uncontrollable desire for alcohol, inebriate

disapprobation = rejection, disapproval

disavowal = Denial

dishabille = in a state of undress

dishearten = discourage, lose spirit

dismember = cut into small parts

disport = amuse

dissuasion = advise against

divergent = Tending in different directions

divination = The forecast of future events or discovery of what is lost or hidden

docket = a list of cases to be dealt with

doddering = shaky, infirm from old age

doff = take off

dorsal = belonging to the back side, posterior, tail

douse = to plunge into water, to extinguish

dowdy = slovenly, untidy

drudgery = Hard and constant work in any dull occupation

durance = confinement

eclipse = The obstruction of Sun by moon, or of moon by earth

eerie = weird

efflorescent = opening in flower

elusory = tending to deceive expectations

elysian = relating to paradise, blissful

emanate = to express a feeling or quality through the way one looks

emendation = corrections of errors

emetic = a medicine that causes vomiting

emolument = salary or fees for a job, remuneration, pay scale

empyreal = celestial, fiery

encomiastic = praising, eulogistic

How to Use this: The goal is to give you an idea of what types of unusual, odd, uncommon words are part of CAT preparation. Reading and revising any word list is a hard way to learn and not very successful. That is why we have developed the Vocab-Builder Mind Machine, so you can learn in effortless way and we strongly recommend you try the mind machine.