1853 Most Difficult Words

for GRE Exam

Word List with Meanings (but Without Sentence Fragments)
Sentence Fragments are included when you buy the mind
machine
(This GRE word list is formatted narrow to make it suitable for printing)

By Raj Bapna

Dear Friend,

You now have in your hands a very valuable list of 1,853 most difficult
GRE words that can give you an edge over others for your success in GRE
exam. This is my gift to you with my best wishes for your big success in GRE
exam and in life.
This list is taken from the vocab books of Vocab-Builder Mind Machine
(for GRE exam), which is a topper’s ultimate vocab system.

This list is free to you.

How to Use This GRE Word List

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:

Cassette 1 Side A-4

Here Cassette 1 Side A means that the words are on the Side A of
Cassette 1 and 4 means that the page number is 4 of this book
Wishing you best of success in GRE exam for admission to top US college
and worldwide opportunities for exciting career, great wealth, enriching travel,
and family pride,
 Raj Bapna .

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

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

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
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

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

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
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Word List: The goal is to give you an idea of what types of
unusual, odd, uncommon words are part of GRE 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.

What is the Biggest Problem with Vocab and

Why Even Serious, Hard Working Students
Fail to Build Huge Vocab Required to High
GRE Score?
Here it is: Becoming Familiar with New Uncommon and
Unusual GRE Words is Easy, But Still Remembering Them
After a Few Weeks is Extremely Difficult
The biggest problem is that though it is relatively easy to learn new words at
home or in coaching classes, it is very very difficult to memorize the words and
remember after a few weeks/months.
Even the best coaching classes fail to put 4,000 to 4,500 words in the long-term
memory of your mind because they do not specialize in mind power and mind
technologies. The best they can do, no matter how hard they work, is to prepare
a good book offering you word lists and then motivate you to repeatedly read the
word lists in different ways many many times over several months and hope that
you remember many of the words.
But, you cannot blame the coaching institutes because it is not their fault. It is
the nature of our mind, which is simply not capable of remembering many
uncommon and odd words just by reading word lists a few times and you know
there is not a lot of time to revise many many many times.
If you are concerned or worried about memorizing vocab, you are not alone--
almost every student faces the same problem. Despite my hard work for over a
year, I myself got only 20% in Verbal, though I got 97% in Quantitative in
GRE exam (see my GRE score card below), so I know how one can feel.
My wife, Dr Anju Bapna, who is a medical doctor, took GMAT exam in USA
for admission to MBA. To get a good score, she took classroom coaching in
California from Kaplan, which is world's number one coaching institute for
GMAT training. The fee was about $1,200. The Kaplan coaching proved
ineffective and it totally failed to help her improve vocab for the GMAT exam.
She was just lucky to get admission to MBA she wanted. In fact, this coaching
experience of her was what motivated me to develop the Vocab-Builder Mind
Machine on our return to India.

“Vocab-Builder Mind Machine is Becoming More and More

Popular Among GRE, SAT, CAT, GMAT Aspirants Because
Good Coaching Alone is Not Enough for Vocab”
As you already know, Indian students tend to score high in Maths but low in
English part. The main reason for low score in Verbal is not knowing the vocab
well which makes it much harder to answer questions correctly. Most of us in
India are not so good in English vocab even if we have studied in English
schools.
GRE exam is also like a competition, where you get percentile (meaning you are
better than so many of the students). So, you need to find various ways, both
small and big, if possible unique and not-yet-common ways, to gain "unfair
advantage" and get ahead of others and win the race.
A competition is like a race where only certain number of students get success
and remaining fail. Mind Machine is kind of like being on an airplane when
others in the race are on bikes, cars or cycles. Guess who will win such an unfair
race?
The mind machine provides one way to gain such "unfair advantage" because it
puts words into your mind effortlessly. You perhaps realize that toppers are not
two times as intelligent as others and that toppers don’t study two times as many
hours as others per day, but knowingly or unknowingly they use more mind
power. “Using mind power” is the missing link in our education system and that
makes the difference between success and failure.
Now, the new Vocab-Builder Mind Machine makes it possible to memorize
vocab: All you have to do is close your eyes, relax, and listen to Mind Machine
Cassettes on Mind Machine Player, and you memorize 3 to 7 times faster. In
addition to memorizing words quickly, you also become better in English usage,
pronunciation, and fluency, which builds self-confidence.

B.E. (BITS Pilani), M.Tech. (IIT Kgp)

Former Intel engineer in USA
 http://www.mindpowerindia.com/GRE-Vocab/gre.htm
and
www.MindMachineLab.htm

Copyright 1991-2008 by MML MPRI.

*Test names/trademarks are the property of the respective trademark holders.
None of the test names trademark holders are affiliated with our institute or this website. 2005-2007. All
rights reserved. Published by Mind Machine Lab, Udaipur